How to rewire your brain with Professor David Nutt

Podcast

Show Notes

Today’s episode is a very special one.

My guest for this episode was fired in 2009 by the Home Secretary for his inconvenient views on drug policy, famously stating that ‘taking the drug ecstasy is no more dangerous than riding a horse.’ He really does stand up for what he believes in, and I’m fascinated by, and in awe of, his brilliant mind.

Professor David Nutt is a neuropharmacologist, and Director of the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London. He has published over 500 original research papers, 8 government reports, 35 books and his latest book on cannabis came out last month.

I felt so honoured to speak with Professor Nutt today. Expect conversations around psychedelics, how psychedelic treatment can lead to breakthroughs in mental health, and the impact of drugs such as cannabis and alcohol.

We are in a mental health crisis, and opening our eyes to new fields of research and treatments can be so beneficial for us. Keep an open mind, and enjoy my discussion with Professor Nutt.

Timestamps

0:00 - Introduction & Overview

2:20 – Podcast starts

3:04 – Psychopharmacology

4:20 – GABA system

5:25 – Ecstasy least harmful drug

8:50 – David Nutt resigned

11:26 – Attack on drugs

14:13 – Psychiatrist made redundant

15:15 - John Maddox prize

16:30 - Psychedelics

18:20 – Recreational drugs

19:20 – Trying psychedelics

21:00 – Psychedelics used in depression and anxiety

25:44 – Drugs classed as more dangerous than explosives

26:23 – SSRI

32:24 – Addiction

39:27 – Amy Winehouse

41:20 – Cannabis

47:53 – CBD

51:14 – Psychedelics - Anorexia

53:28 – Alcohol

54:00 – Alcohol is more harmful than heroin

1:02:53 – Alcohol / addiction

1:07:31 - Mental health / uncertainty

1:08:42 – Meaning of Live Well Be Well

1:11:13 – Social media