Carl Waggett on Trauma, Firefighting, and the Healing Power of Psychedelics
If you experience something like an ego death, you don't understand what this smell is like. But what psychedelics introduce you to is that fact that I could stand in the corner and play with whatever it is I'm playing with, and I could give a shit if you approve.
Imagine spending two decades as a firefighter, facing trauma head-on every day. That’s Carl Waggett’s story. In this episode of 'Flight of Thoughts', Jake sits down with Carl, now a passionate advocate for psychedelic healing. Carl's journey from first responder to psychedelic mentor is nothing short of fascinating. He shares what it truly takes to build resilience in the face of trauma and the common pitfalls that first responders should avoid for a long, healthy career.
Carl emphasizes the importance of checking in with all layers of the biopsychosocial model, seeking therapy to strengthen oneself, and maintaining a clear boundary between work and personal life. But it doesn't stop there. Carl delves into how psychedelics, especially psilocybin, can help shift perspectives and aid in recovering from depression or trauma-related disorders. He even introduces his unique analogy of the 'psychedelic bouncer', representing the challenging early stages of a psychedelic trip.
Carl’s candid and no-nonsense approach offers invaluable wisdom for anyone considering a psychedelic experience, highlighting the importance of preparation to avoid distress. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on trauma resiliency and the potential benefits of psychedelics for first responders and beyond. Whether you're curious about the intersection of mental health and psychedelics or looking for practical advice on building resilience, Carl's story is sure to captivate and inform.