In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Dr. Simon Ruffell — psychiatrist, researcher, and co-founder of Onaya Sciences. Simon is known for bridging Western psychiatry and traditional Amazonian plant medicine, completing a PhD on the therapeutic effects of ayahuasca and training in Shipibo curanderismo in Peru. We touch upon topics of: (00:47) Simon’s journey from psychiatry to the Amazon (08:33) How ayahuasca heals: neuroplasticity, epigenetics & spirit work (13:18) Indigenous perspectives on balance and illness (16:11) Designing research with shamans & translating indigenous knowledge (22:11) Safety concerns in Western psychedelic use without shamans (31:05) 80% PTSD remission and other research findings (35:23) Synchronicities and destiny on the healing path (44:18) Ego traps: rushing to become a shaman (50:36) Rethinking psychedelic education and training models (58:52) The story and spirit of Agua Florida & evolving traditions If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats go to www.lawayra.com. Find more about Dr. Simon Ruffell and Onaya Sciences at www.onaya.science and on Instagram @drsimonruffell.