DoubleBlind Magic Hour follows host Shelby Hartman (co-founder of the DoubleBlind print magazine and media company) as she, her guests, and a cohort of correspondents cover timely, untold stories about the expansion of psychedelics around the globe — from insider baseball drama within the movement to the latest news on research, politics and beyond. We talk with the most brilliant minds and journalists we know from the psychedelic frontier about shrooms, acid, DMT, you name it, and about what hot goss they’re hearing in the field. And don’t worry, we get into whether you should trip too.
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DoubleBlind Magic Hour follows host Shelby Hartman (co-founder of the DoubleBlind print magazine and media company) as she, her guests, and a cohort of correspondents cover timely, untold stories about the expansion of psychedelics around the globe — from insider baseball drama within the movement to the latest news on research, politics and beyond. We talk with the most brilliant minds and journalists we know from the psychedelic frontier about shrooms, acid, DMT, you name it, and about what hot goss they’re hearing in the field. And don’t worry, we get into whether you should trip too.
Hot Goss with Michelle Lhooq: Lessons From the Underground Rave Scene, Avoiding Cannabis 2.0, and the “California Sober” Lifestyle
The DoubleBlind Magic Hour
1 hour 36 minutes
1 year ago
Hot Goss with Michelle Lhooq: Lessons From the Underground Rave Scene, Avoiding Cannabis 2.0, and the “California Sober” Lifestyle
In this episode, Shelby sits down with journalist and cultural observer Michelle Lhooq. Known for her profound insights into the underground drug scene, Lhooq shares her unique experiences from growing up under Singapore's strict drug laws to becoming a celebrated figure in psychedelic journalism. The discussion explores the evolving landscape of drug culture, from the harsh penalties in Singapore to the liberating underground rave scenes in America. Lhooq’s journey through the music and nightlife of New York City unveils a transformation influenced by the legalization of cannabis in California and her subsequent exploration into psychedelic substances. Lhooq criticizes the commercialization of psychedelics, emphasizing how companies are capitalizing on what was once purely countercultural. Furthermore, she reflects on the "California sober," a term she coined herself, lifestyle and its impact on her personal growth and professional trajectory. The conversation also covers the broader implications of this cultural shift, including the ethical dilemmas and societal impacts of mainstreaming psychedelic substances. Shelby and Michelle discuss the delicate balance between celebrating the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics and critiquing the burgeoning industry that risks overshadowing traditional and indigenous practices.
Guest Speaker Headshot + Bio
Michelle Lhooq is a prominent journalist and author, recognized for her insightful coverage of drugs, nightlife, and rave culture. Originally from Singapore, she has made a significant impact in New York City as an electronic music reporter before focusing on the underground rave scene and psychedelics through her newsletter, "Rave New World." Her notable works include the book "WEED: Everything You Want to Know But Are Always Too Stoned to Ask" published by Penguin Random House. Lhooq's journalism is featured in esteemed publications such as The Guardian, GQ, New York Magazine, The Los Angeles Times, and Bloomberg. Based in Los Angeles, she is also known for organizing psychedelic parties that blend rave culture with a focus on wellness and holistic health
Articles from the episode:
The Psychedelic Industry Grew Too Fast—And Now is Getting a Reality Check
Why Partying on Shrooms is a Great Idea | DoubleBlind Mag
Companies Are Mailing Patients Ketamine—But Not Everyone Is On Board
Find Michelle Lhooq:
Twitter
Substack - Rave New World
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The DoubleBlind Magic Hour
DoubleBlind Magic Hour follows host Shelby Hartman (co-founder of the DoubleBlind print magazine and media company) as she, her guests, and a cohort of correspondents cover timely, untold stories about the expansion of psychedelics around the globe — from insider baseball drama within the movement to the latest news on research, politics and beyond. We talk with the most brilliant minds and journalists we know from the psychedelic frontier about shrooms, acid, DMT, you name it, and about what hot goss they’re hearing in the field. And don’t worry, we get into whether you should trip too.
