Rick Strassman is the author of DMT: The Spirit Molecule and the recently published, The Psychedelic Handbook: A Practical Guide to Psilocybin, LSD, Ketamine, MDMA, and DMT/Ayahuasca, among other books. A critical, pioneering figure in the recent, so-called “Psychedelic Renaissance,” Strassman is known around the world for his studies and writing, and is an inspiration to many. He spoke with Gary about his journey researching DMT, an early psychedelic experience, his time in a Zen monastery, medicalizing the psychedelic experience, and a whole lot of stimulating related topics.