Psychedelic substances, long used by a number of Indigenous cultures, have been on a strange, jagged trip for nearly a century in the Western world, from experimentation by a few anthropologists and some elite and bohemian circles and early promising research, to an explosion of interest and experimentation in mass popular culture, to demonization, prohibition and the cessation of studies, to, most recently, renewed interest, nascent stabs at decriminalization, and the resumption of serious scientific exploration. We at Bioneers are honored to be able to host two of the most accomplished scientists at the leading edges of contemporary research in this field, both affiliated with the Center for the Science of Psychedelics, right here at UC Berkeley: Dr. Gül Dölen, a world-renowned neuroscientist leading the effort to understand the molecular mechanisms through which the brain engages with psychedelic substances; and Professor Michael Silver, an expert in visual perception and attention doing groundbreaking work on the effects of psychedelics on vision and brain function. They will discuss their research, their views on psychedelics’ potentials in mental health and furthering our understanding of consciousness, as well as what some of the potential pitfalls might be in seeking to work with these trickster molecules in our contentious culture. Moderated by J.P. Harpignies, Bioneers senior producer.