Beond
Beond
William Leonard Pickard: The Rebel Scientist Who Predicted Fentanyl
William Leonard Pickard: The Rebel Scientist Who Predicted Fentanyl
William Leonard Pickard: The Rebel Scientist Who Predicted Fentanyl
Friday 11th October 2024
Join Amanda Siebert and Talia Eisenberg as they explore William Leonard Pickard's journey from Harvard research associate to central figure in LSD manufacturing.
58 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate
Authentic
About this podcast
Author:
Beond
Overview:
Categories:
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Creative Recovery Journeys
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
42 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!William Leonard Pickard: The Acid King's Journey from Harvard to Fentanyl Predictions
Episode Overview
- William Leonard Pickard's early interest in neuroscience led him to psychedelics.
- He predicted the fentanyl epidemic back in 1996.
- Pickard faced ethical dilemmas while producing LSD on a large scale.
- He spent 20 years in prison, where he reflected on human nature and resilience.
- Pickard believes in the potential of psychedelics like Ibogaine for treating addiction and trauma.
We thought we were onto something important. We thought we had perhaps a tool for opening the heart and mind
In this fascinating episode of 'Root Medicine', Amanda Siebert and co-host Talia Eisenberg sit down with William Leonard Pickard, a figure known for his groundbreaking work in both the scientific and underground realms of psychedelics. Pickard, often referred to as the 'Acid King', shares his journey from being a Harvard research associate to becoming the central figure in the largest LSD manufacturing case in history.
He opens up about his early fascination with neuroscience, his involvement in the 1960s counterculture, and his eventual shift towards large-scale LSD production. Pickard also discusses his 1996 prediction of the fentanyl epidemic, which was published by RAND. His insights into the opioid crisis are particularly timely, as he elaborates on how his predictions have sadly come to pass.
Beyond the dark aspects of his story, Pickard provides a hopeful perspective on the potential of psychedelic medicines like Ibogaine to address addiction and trauma. The conversation takes a deep dive into the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by underground chemists and the challenges of living a life constantly under the threat of arrest. Pickard’s reflections on his 20-year imprisonment offer a unique window into human nature and the resilience of the human spirit.
He shares how he found hope and maintained his sense of purpose even in the most confined circumstances. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of psychedelics, drug policy, and mental health treatment. Pickard’s story is not just about the past but also offers valuable lessons for the future of psychedelic medicine. Tune in to hear his compelling narrative and consider the broader implications for modern treatment approaches.
What ethical dilemmas would you face in Pickard’s shoes? How can psychedelics play a role in healing trauma and addiction today?