We achieved so much in 2025 – here are a few highlights.

Bill Richards’ Sacred Knowledge is not a manifesto, a hype-driven endorsement of psychedelics, or a rebellion against religion. It is something far rarer: a careful, morally grounded account of what decades of responsible psychedelic research have revealed about human consciousness, healing, and meaning.

The War on Drugs was built on moral panic, racialized fear, and political expediency. It was not built on evidence-based public health (Alexander, 2010). Decades later, stigma still shapes how we respond to suffering, replacing discernment with reflexive judgment. Can Christmas inspire moral reflection, rather than inherited fear?

The 4th Annual Gathering of the Pearl, on September 18 at Highland Brewing Company’s Event Center, celebrates the unique psychedelic legacy and community The Pearl Institute is building in Western North Carolina.

We took the stage at Psychedelic Science 2025 for “The Heartland Meets Appalachia: Exploring Psychedelic Healing and Regional Resilience.” Check out Ali’s perspective on this year’s conference in Denver.

West Virginia is attempting to join the national psychedelic medicine research surge. This March, two key pieces of legislation introduced by Delegate Evan Worrell (R) passed the House and are now advancing to the Senate.

SB 1101, the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Act, is currently moving through Virginia’s legislature.

Utter the word “shaman” and some Appalachian folks immediately think of evil, seance, and the devil. My experience with “shamanistic” cultures has been pleasant, kind-hearted, and reverential. Appalachia is a place of strong roots and powerful traditions, but it’s also a place where exploring the unknown can be seen as a betrayal of community values. The decision to start the Appalachian Psychedelic Society feels like a tremendous honor and risk—stepping out of the shadows with a belief system that many might find foreign or even threatening.

Grief is often seen as something to endure or get through, but it can also be a gateway to deeper gratitude and joy. Malidoma Somé, a West African elder and author, speaks of grief as a form of initiation, a passageway transforming individuals and communities.

Many people find themselves feeling stuck or disoriented after a psychedelic experience. Maybe you’ve had life-changing realizations, but the excitement of the moment has faded, leaving you unsure of how to incorporate them into your everyday life. The insights you gained may seem distant now, slipping away as you return to old patterns...

In a critical safety recall, all flavors of Diamond Shruumz-brand mushroom-infused products have been pulled from shelves, following numerous reports of severe health incidents.

Harm reduction focuses on minimizing the negative consequences of drug use rather than solely preventing it. This blog explores the philosophy and strategies behind harm reduction and its impact on individuals and society.

Psychedelic policy in the U.S. is evolving from strict prohibition to more nuanced approaches like decriminalization and therapeutic use. This blog explores key developments shaping the future of psychedelics in America.

Explore the diverse communities shaping the psychedelic ecosystem, from ancient Indigenous practices to modern research groups and advocacy organizations. This blog highlights their roles in cultural preservation, education, and sustainable practices.