NOTE FROM TED: Please do not look to this talk for mental health advice. This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of psychedelics and the brain which remains an ongoing field of study. Experiments discussed in this talk should not be performed outside of accredited research settings. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfWhat if the most meaningful part of a psychedelic experience isn’t the medicine, but what it awakens in you? In this thought-provoking talk, Matt Zemon, MSc, challenges the growing narrative around psychedelics as "miracle" medicines. Instead, he offers a grounded perspective: that these substances, when used responsibly, may simply create conditions for individuals to access their own inner wisdom. Matt explores how psychedelics can spark profound spiritual insight and emotional transformation—not as an escape from suffering, but as an invitation to face it, understand it, and ultimately transform it.Matt Zemon is an educator, author, and leader in psychedelic wellness, blending academic rigor with compassionate advocacy for safe, intentional use. He is the best-selling author of Psychedelics for Everyone, The Beginner’s Guide to Psychedelics, The Veteran’s Guide to Psychedelics, and Beyond the Trip. With a Master's in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health, Matt collaborates with healthcare professionals and entheogenic communities to promote mindful, risk-reduced approaches to psychedelic healing. His work empowers veterans, spiritual seekers, and others on the path of personal growth to engage these experiences with care and respect. Matt Zemon, MSc, specializes in the impact of psychedelics on mental health. He is the author of three best-selling books, including The Veteran's Guide to Psychedelics, Psychedelics for Everyone, and Beyond the Trip. Holding a Master's degree in psychology and neuroscience from King's College London, Matt merges academic insights with a passion for safe and sacred psychedelic use, focusing on broadening understanding and access to these transformative substances. In addition, he consults with medical practitioners, contributing his expertise to further the responsible integration of psychedelics in healthcare. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 8:51Solo Musical Performance | Prajina Gurung | TEDxQuest International College? Raw. Emotional. Powerful. Prajina Gurung pours her soul into every note, effortlessly blending emotion with melody. With no formal training, she delivers a stunning cover performance that captures hearts and leaves a lasting impact.Her voice tells a story — honest, vulnerable, and full of passion. Each word she sings feels deeply personal, turning music into a powerful form of expression.This performance is more than just a cover — it’s a reflection of pure talent and emotional depth.✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more unforgettable performances.#PrajinaGurung #CoverSong #WomenInConcert2024 #LiveMusic #EmotionalPerformance #NepaliTalent #SingingWithSoul#PrajinaGurung #WomenInConcert2024 #SingerSongwriter #CoverSong #LivePerformance #NepaliMusic #MusicJourney Prajina Gurung, a talented singer-songwriter who discovered her passion for music at an early age. With no formal training, she recently took the stage for the first time at the WOMEN IN CONCERT and emerged victorious, winning Women in Concert 2024! ?✨ Music has always been her way of expressing emotions, and through songwriting, she beautifully turns her stories and experiences into melodies. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 12:12AI：A Leap into the Future | Zhaojun Li & Youqing Wang | TEDxRDFIS YouthGeneration Z Manifesto: Redefining New Frontiers of Tech Ethics in the Post-00s Era "AI & Reimagined" encompasses societal, cultural, and numerous other dimensions. Centered on the theme of "Reimagined," it questions: As AI tools revolutionize development processes by drastically reducing time and effort, will they erode our critical thinking or stifle imagination? What will future AI look like, and how should we guide, evolve, and harness its potential responsibly? Audrey is a creative and curious girl with a passion for life. She enjoys playing the piano and expressing herself through painting. Energetic and fearless in the face of challenges, she loves bringing her ideas to life.Ashley is a boy passionate about badminton. He also loves F1 racing and is always eager to take on new adventures. He is no stranger to challenges—he faces them head-on with a smile, whether he’s on the badminton court or tackling life’s obstacles. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 21:52Mirage of Memory: Dialogue of the Unknown | Keshav Sadhana | TEDxSRCASWFrom scripted love stories to unscripted life lessons, Keshav Sadhna brings his heart to the stage in this touching, humorous, and a reflective speech: The Mirage of Memories. Staying true to his identity as an actor, he speaks as a man who's spent years living through the emotions of others, and quietly collecting pieces of his own. With the charm that lights up screens and the sincerity that lingers off-camera, he reflects on how love scenes don’t always end with “cut,” and how the memories we hold—real or imagined—can sometimes teach us more than the scripts ever did. He weaves in a beautiful threads about timing, dreams, and the unseen hand behind every connection, all while adding a sprinkle of light-hearted humor about the ups and downs of playing the different characters on screen. Poignant, funny, and surprisingly deep, this is a speech for anyone who's ever loved a little too much, remembered a little too vividly, or wondered if maybe… the heart knows things the mind never quite catches. Let your heart listen. You might just find a piece of yourself in his story. Keshav Sadhana is an actor with a passion for learning, growing through experiences, and embracing the process of trying, failing, and trying again. His journey is shaped by a deep belief in perseverance, self-discovery, and continuous evolution. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 17:24The Changing World of Education | Ritwik Banerjee | TEDxBodhi International SchoolThe Changing World of Education Master Ritwik Banerjee is a perceptive and sharp-minded student, known for his analytical thinking and vivid imagination. Gifted with a photographic memory and an extensive knowledge base, Ritwik applies logic and learned insights seamlessly across diverse contexts. His articulate expression and mastery over language reflect his depth as a thinker and communicator. With a unique sense of humour and a determined spirit, he approaches every task with focus and finesse. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 10:37Al for Science | Huang Yu | TEDxRDFIS YouthDr. Huang Yu, a semiconductor scientist, formerly served as a Senior Key Expert at Mentor Graphics (USA) and holds a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Iowa. With over 70 patents and more than 140 international papers published, Dr. Huang Yu has demonstrated through data that "AI does not replace engineers, but creates a new type of scientist." —【AI for Science】is not a multiple-choice question, but a necessity in the chip revolution. Dr. Yu Huang is a semiconductor scientist at Huawei and the Chief Architect of EDA at Hisilicon, as well as the head of the EDA Laboratory. He previously served as a Sr. Key Expert at Mentor Graphics in the United States. His research areas include VLSI SoC testing, compression, diagnosis, yield analysis, machine learning, and AI chips. He obtained his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Iowa in the United States. He holds over 70 patents and has published more than 140 international papers. Dr. Huang is a Senior Member of IEEE and has served on the organizing committees of several international conferences, including DAC, ITC, VTS, ATS, ETS, ASPDAC, and NATW. He is also an adjunct professor and corporate doctoral advisor at the School of Microelectronics at Fudan University and Xidian University in China. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 10:02Why being ‘too much’ is the best thing ever | Anna Susan Roy | TEDxSJCETPalaiLabeled as too ambitious, too emotional, too loud, or too driven—many of us are taught to shrink ourselves to fit into the boxes society creates. This talk challenges that narrative by celebrating what it means to be “too much.” It explores the power of dreaming big, embracing multiple passions, and refusing to dim your light to make others comfortable. Through stories of rejection, resilience, and unexpected breakthroughs, it makes a compelling case for why being unapologetically yourself—even when it's inconvenient or misunderstood—is not just okay, but essential. Because sometimes, being “too much” is exactly what the world needs. Anna Susan Roy is a rising star who blends beauty, talent, and ambition. A Miss Kerala 2021 finalist and Vanitha Covergirl 2022 finalist, she also showcased her leadership as Arts Club Secretary at St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam. Anna has delivered memorable performances in films like Thalappavu as Lal sir’s daughter, Kanmazha Peyyum Munpe as Thilakan sir’s granddaughter, and Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol as Bindhu Panicker’s daughter. Her versatility shines in roles such as Johny Antony’s daughter in Papachan Olivilaan and in the short film Hi Hello Kadhal. A sought-after face in brand collaborations, Anna has worked with Tasy Nibbles, AVT Premium Tea, Kalyan Jewellers, Lulu Fashion,Milan designers and more. With her charisma and diverse talents, she continues to leave a lasting impression in fashion and entertainment. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
