A Productive Conversation

Paul Austin Talks About Microdosing Psychedelics for Productivity and Creativity


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This episode is brought to you by Your Clockwise Week—a personalized weekly structure built around your actual life, not an ideal one. If your week feels full but not fitting, you can learn more at mikevardy.com/yourclockwiseweek.


In this episode, I sit down with Paul Austin to dive into the intriguing world of microdosing psychedelics. We explore the potential benefits and risks, the historical and modern connections between psychedelics and technological innovation, and the broader implications for productivity and creativity in the workplace.

Microdosing has become a hot topic, and Paul provides insights into how substances like psilocybin mushrooms and LSD can enhance performance, heal trauma, and boost creativity. We also discuss the need for greater acceptance and understanding of microdosing, emphasizing safe and responsible use. This conversation sheds light on how microdosing might transform our approach to productivity and creativity.

Key Discussion Points

  • Microdosing for Productivity: Paul and I discuss how microdosing psychedelics can enhance focus and flow, leading to improved workplace productivity.
  • Historical Influence on Technology: We explore the significant impact of psychedelics on the development of technology, including computers and the internet, with examples from notable figures like Steve Jobs.
  • Enhancing Creativity: Paul highlights how psychedelics can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills, with applications in design thinking at leading innovation centers.
  • Eastern vs. Western Perspectives: Our discussion contrasts Western and Eastern approaches to productivity and personal growth, finding a middle ground through microdosing.
  • Shifting Societal Attitudes: Paul points out the growing acceptance of psychedelics for therapeutic use, supported by influential voices and increasing public approval.
  • Overcoming Fear and Stigma: We talk about the role of microdosing in overcoming fear-based limitations and the importance of education to break the taboo surrounding psychedelics.
  • Resources for Learning: Paul shares recommended books and resources for those interested in exploring the potential benefits of psychedelics further.


    As we wrap up, it's clear that microdosing psychedelics holds great promise for enhancing productivity, creativity, and personal growth. Paul's insights offer a fresh perspective on how we can responsibly integrate these practices into our lives to achieve better outcomes.

    Links Worth Exploring

    • Connect with Paul: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Instagram
    • Get Paul's Book: Mastering Microdosing: How to Use Sub-Perceptual Psychedelics to Heal Trauma, Improve Performance, and Transform Your Life
    • Recommended Read #1: What the Dormouse Said
    • Recommended Read #2: From Counterculture to Cyberculture
    • Check out The Third Wave: Click here
    • Related Conversation: Episode 347: The Transparency Wave with Paul Pagnato
    • Related Blog Post: How To Find Your Way Forward (And Finish)

    • Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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      Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.

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      If this episode resonated, I’m exploring ideas like these more deeply in my upcoming book, Productiveness. You can follow along as it takes shape at mikevardy.com/productiveness.

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      A Productive ConversationBy Mike Vardy

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