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In this episode of Intonicated, Kenneth speaks with Heather Kuiper, co-founder and Director of the Center for Psychedelic Public Health, about the emerging field of psychedelic public health and its potential to reshape how society understands these powerful substances.
Their conversation explores why psychedelics should be considered through a public health lens, not only as therapeutic tools for individuals, but as catalysts for community wellbeing, education, health promotion, and systems change. They discuss harm reduction, psychedelic exceptionalism, Indigenous knowledge and reciprocity, the importance of language, and how public health principles can help maximize benefits while minimizing harms.
Heather also shares the vision behind the Center for Psychedelic Public Health and its efforts to build a new interdisciplinary field that bridges research, policy, education, and community practice.
Whether you’re interested in psychedelics, public health, or the future of collective wellbeing, this conversation offers a thoughtful exploration of how these worlds can come together to support healthier people and communities.
Time Stamps
- 0:53 – Introduction
- 2:08 – What Is Public Health?
- 4:32 – Why Psychedelics Need Public Health
- 6:49 – Research on Psychedelics in Schools of Public Health
- 10:33 – Building the Field of Psychedelic Public Health
- 13:39 – Harm Reduction and Psychedelics
- 17:59 – Psychedelic Exceptionalism
- 22:23 – Indigenous Principles in Psychedelic Public Health
- 26:41 – The Power of Language
- 31:38 – Psychedelics, Education & Consciousness
- 37:03 – Ritual vs. Recreation
- 39:30 – Building the Future of Psychedelic Public Health
- 47:30 – Final Thoughts
Guest:
Heather Kuiper, DrPH is Founder and Director of the Center for Psychedelic Public Health. A public health leader with expertise in health equity, environmental justice, and community wellbeing, she has led initiatives spanning maternal health, environmental health, and systems change. Her current work focuses on advancing psychedelic public health through global collaboration, Indigenous partnerships, and population-level approaches to health and wellbeing.
Links:
https://www.psychedelicpublichealth.org/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0277953624005872
https://www.cpha.ca/discussion-document-public-health-perspectives-future-psychedelics
https://realworldpsychedelics.com/
Host:
Kenneth Tupper is a public health researcher, drug policy expert, and educator whose work focuses on psychedelics, learning, and wellbeing.
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Psychedelics are powerful substances with known risks and are illegal in many jurisdictions. Always consult qualified medical professionals and follow applicable laws.
