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
- 13:39Menstruation, Myths, and Modern India | David Samuvel Sibi H | TEDxChennai Institute Of TechnologyFrom ancient myths to modern shame, one natural phenomenon has remained shrouded in silence—menstruation. In this fearless and deeply resonant TEDx talk, David Samuvel Sibi H., a cybersecurity student from Chennai Institute of Technology, breaks the silence around menstruation and challenges the cultural resistance to change that grips modern India. Tracing the forgotten history of menstrual care—from papyrus pads in ancient Egypt to the innovation of sanitary products—David uncovers how stigma, shame, and superstition have long dictated women’s lives.But this isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a mirror held up to India’s present. With raw storytelling and lived experience, David reflects on rural menstrual huts, urban discomfort around buying sanitary pads, and the persistent patriarchy that shapes both. From menstrual taboos to caste biases and generational rigidity, he questions why a country racing into the future still clings so tightly to the past.With conviction and compassion, David’s talk invites us to confront uncomfortable truths and take the first step toward a more open, informed, and equitable society. This is not just a conversation about menstruation—it’s a call to rethink how we treat change itself.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 David Samuvel Sibi H, a cybersecurity student from the Class of 2027 at Chennai Institute of Technology, is celebrated for his versatility and leadership. A native of Kodaikanal, he excelled as the President of the Interact Rotary Club during his school years and was crowned the 2023 Kodaikanal Chess Champion in the open school category. Additionally, he achieved a state-level rank in the Computer Olympiad. At Chennai Institute of Technology, David has taken on prominent roles, hosting major events such as the inauguration of KUKA, CIT Connects, the Catapult Program, and the college induction program. As the Editor-in-Chief of CIT Connects, the college’s official magazine, he has shaped its creative vision for the past year. Beyond his editorial leadership, David has organized numerous events and showcased his exceptional communication skills by interviewing the Minister of State for Education, reflecting his dedication and multifaceted talent. 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
- 15:54The Secret to Life Purpose Lies in Possibilities | Bradley Wright | TEDxUConnHow do people actually find purpose in life? This talk presents a new way of answering this question. It’s called the Possibility Management Model. It focuses on the possibilities of our life and what we do with them. We start by creating possibilities–the various things that we could do that matter most. Then, we learn about these possibilities, to know what to do with them. Finally, we combine possibilities and start doing them. We repeat this process in all areas of our life to construct a life of great purpose. Bradley Wright is a professor of sociology at the University of Connecticut in the Director of the Life Purpose Lab where he studies how people find purpose in life. He has studied behavioral change for several decades, and his publications have been cited over 5000 times. He teaches courses on social well-being and research methodology. Bradley lives in Connecticut with his wife and a small fluffy dog. They have two sons. His hobbies include cycling, hiking, and photography. 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
- 14:47How much brain do we need for spirituality? | Mohammad Amin Saraei | TEDxUConnFor too long, we've treated spirituality as something generated inside the brain—like a computer processing inputs. But what if spirituality is more like a radio, tuning into signals from our bodies, environments, and shared rituals? My research challenges the brain-centric model by showing how practices like Salat synchronize bodies and emotions, creating a communal rhythm of connection. Using wearable technology, we can study spirituality as an embodied experience, not just neural activity. This shift opens up new ways to explore spirituality—not as isolated thought, but as something we live, move, and feel together. Mohammadamin Saraei is a PhD candidate in ecological psychology at the University of Connecticut, where he works in the Experimental Anthropology Lab, specializing in the cognitive science of religion. His research explores how sacred and secular beliefs and practices shape individual and societal well-being by affecting our minds, bodies, and brains. With a background in clinical psychology, Mohammadamin is particularly interested in understanding how religion and spirituality can support mental and physical health. Using new technologies, he examines spiritual practices and rituals in an embodied, embedded way, aiming to diversify the study of spirituality and make its benefits more accessible to people. 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
- 8:08Lifelong Learning - A Key to transforming your life and career! | Alok Tewari | TEDxUConnIn an era of AI and rapid change, continuous adaptation is no longer optional—it’s essential. By embracing a growth mindset and integrating AI as a powerful tool, this talk offers actionable strategies to unlock new possibilities in career and life. Through real-world insights and examples, discover how to harness the transformative potential of learning and technology to not only cope with change but to thrive in it—creating a ripple effect of growth and positive impact for yourself and the world around you. Dr. Alok Tewari is an accomplished strategist and leader with expertise in technology, engineering, business management, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions. He is Vice President of Strategy at a leading insurance and engineering firm. He has successfully built and led multicultural, high-performing teams to deliver results and optimize returns. Alok is a Juris Doctor candidate at UConn and holds a Doctorate in Management, a Master’s in Insurance Management, and a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. As a dedicated lifelong learner with numerous certifications, he has spoken at industry conferences and on podcasts, sharing insights on the transformative impact of technology. Beyond his professional achievements, Alok is deeply committed to community service, having volunteered for over five years with the American Red Cross and contributed to local shelters and the Legal Aid Society. His work drives positive change across industries and communities. 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
- 9:21Barreras Físicas no mentales | Renata Sánchez Díaz | TEDxColegio Merici YouthComo un estudiante vive con discapacidad motriz Ella tiene 16 años y las personas que la inspiran día a día son su familia y sus amigos. Hay cosas que le apasionan, como la escritura y la música, pero sobre todo, su deseo de alzar la voz y darle voz a quienes no pueden. Es por eso que se convirtió en parte de este evento. Aunque tiene solo 16 años, sorprendería lo mucho que ha vivido y aprendido. Por eso, invita a los demás a conocer su historia y a entender lo que la hace la persona que es hoy. 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
- 9:22The Art of Alignment: using your core to create confidence | Vera Milan Gervais | TEDxOshawaIn her talk Vera describes how she hid her true self because of a physical birth anomaly. When this situation was surgically corrected, she had to learn how to walk again. Through this journey she learnt lessons about grit, being true to herself, and confidence. She shares these lessons with us. Vera Milan Gervais challenges traditional concepts of leadership by rethinking how we view confidence, balance, and success. Author of The Wordz We Wear: How to Show Up with Confidence and Create Your Best Life, she explores how language shapes our identity and choices. Vera’s success despite a birth defect helps women reframe limiting narratives, embrace their leadership potential, and create balanced, fulfilling lives. 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
