LSD for Breakfast #10
Intro
Hi everyone, welcome back! With a nice relaxing summer behind us and autumn just around the corner, it's time to start writing again.
In this newsletter, I finally get around to a topic I have been contemplating for a while. It’s not easy for those of us at the cognitive fringes. Trying to exist in a world designed by and for the “neuroaverage”. I advocate a change in how we, as a society, frame the term neurodivergent.
I will always be so grateful to my grandma for showing me that we have to consciously break the rules. Thank you Grandma for showing me that cannabis is a gateway drug! A gateway to an incredible life filled with adventure, meaningful connections, and a fulfilling career.
Then, to finish things off, a little bit about the mystical morning glory.
Enjoy! Thanks so much for reading!
Neuroextraordinary: A Reframing of Cognitive Diversity
I don’t like the term neurodivergent, nor do I identify with the label neuroatypical. While I understand why society is eager to categorize those who exist at the fringes, it feels like a way for the majority what we will call “neurotypicals” to simplify and compartmentalize something complex and different so they can safely ignore it. The truth is, we need to shift how we categorize this. Lable the masses, the norm as neurotypical, or neuroaverage. After all, what a predictable and comfortable life it must be to live squarely in the center of the cognitive bell curve, where everything just makes sense, and interaction with society at large is effortless. There must be a certain ease in that, no doubt.
As an adult, I’ve slowly found my tribe and others who are cognitively different. It was not always that way. growing up in a small town, without peers, there was most definitely no one like me. It took decades of self-exploration, therapy, psychedelics and a gradual unravelling of societal conditioning for me to realize just how different my mental architecture is from the majority, and how much work I have to do just to appear like I fit in. It’s exhausting. Society is not designed for those at the cognitive fringes. Many mechanisms — educational systems, workplace norms, and even social interactions — are constructed to actively “normalize” neurodiverse people, pushing us toward the center and erasing the edges of our complexity.
But here’s my thesis: the term neurodivergent should be replaced with neuroextraordinary. This reframing recognizes just how different we are, and the fact that even though we may represent less than 1% of the population, so much innovation, creativity, and intellectual breakthrough comes from those of us who don’t fit neatly into the neurotypical mould. Not just “different” but extraordinary.
I first started regular therapy a decade ago. At the time, I was simply seeking some relief from the cognitive dissonance I felt in daily life, why did things seem harder for me than for others? Why did I feel disconnected, like I was observing the world through a pane of glass? As I began to work with mental health professionals, I started hearing the terms neurodivergent and neuroatypical. At first, they were just words, jargon from a therapeutic framework, but as I dug deeper, many things began to make sense. I wasn’t just “off” or “struggling to cope” I was wired differently.
Getting to this realization was not a trivial process. It required extensive testing, hours of evaluations with mental health professionals, and a deep dive into my personal history. And after all that, the conclusion wasn’t some neat, diagnosable condition that would fit into a diagnostic manual. Instead, it was something more nebulous: I didn’t fit in. There was no clear diagnosis to explain why my experience of the world was so different.
Looking back, I realize that my entire life had been a series of hints pointing to this neuroextraordinary identity. Social interactions were never instinctual for me. I couldn’t just walk into a room and “read the room” the way others could. My emotional radar was always off, making it hard to navigate even basic conversations. Understanding when someone was lying or manipulating was nearly impossible. I’d take people at their word, only to be blindsided later by their true intentions. The world often felt too loud, too bright, too overwhelming. Lights and sounds, things that seemed trivial to others would bombard my senses in ways I couldn’t always explain. Change has always been a challenge. Routines were my refuge, and any disruption felt like the ground shifting beneath my feet.
I struggled to manage emotions in real time, often leading to emotional shutdowns. While others seemed to flow effortlessly through their feelings, mine felt like tsunamis I couldn’t control. When something intrigued me, it consumed me. I’d disappear into books, projects, or hobbies for days at a time, shutting out the rest of the world. And when that hyperfocus ended, it was like emerging from a cave into blinding sunlight.
Eye contact has always been uncomfortable, as if too much information was being transmitted through a gaze. Avoiding it felt safer and less intrusive. My approach to challenges was always different from others. Where people saw straight lines, I saw webs of connections, possibilities, and uncharted routes to the answer.
Every interaction became a puzzle to be solved after the fact. Did I say the right thing? Did they mean what they said? Social situations were exhausting because my brain wouldn’t stop replaying and dissecting them. While others seemed to juggle multiple tasks with ease, I needed to focus intensely on one thing at a time. The chaos of multitasking left me frazzled and ineffective. Interacting with people, even those I cared about, would leave me drained. I’d need hours, sometimes days, to recover after a long social engagement. My way of speaking was often described as formal or peculiar making me stand out in social settings.
Small talk felt like a foreign language. What was the point of discussing the weather or trivialities? It was draining, and it felt like I was playing a role I didn’t quite understand. Tone, body language, sarcasm, these things often escaped me, leading to frequent misunderstandings and confusion. Even when I felt deeply, it was hard to articulate those feelings in a way others could understand, leading to disconnects with friends and loved ones. Group dynamics were always difficult. With so many people talking at once, I often found myself withdrawing, unable to keep up with the shifting energy.
Unlike those with clear diagnoses like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s syndrome, or other recognized neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions, I didn’t fit neatly into any established category. I wasn’t “just autistic” or “just ADHD.” Instead, my experience was a complex mix of traits that didn’t align with one clear diagnosis.
This is the reality for neuroextraordinary individuals: we don’t fit into any one box, yet we live with cognitive and behavioural differences that impact our daily lives. Traditional diagnostic tools like the DSM or ICD simply don’t capture the full scope of our experiences.
We represent a small percentage, perhaps only 0.5% to 1% of the global population, yet so much of the innovation, creativity, and unconventional thinking that drives society forward comes from people like us. History is full of neuroextraordinary individuals who defied categorization, who pushed the boundaries of science, art, and human understanding because they thought differently, because they saw the world through a lens the majority couldn’t comprehend. Consider Albert Einstein, whose unconventional approach to physics reshaped our understanding of the universe, or Nikola Tesla, whose eccentric brilliance gave birth to technologies far ahead of his time. Leonardo da Vinci, with his boundless curiosity and diverse talents, challenged the artistic and scientific paradigms of his era. Virginia Woolf’s introspective and experimental writing opened new realms in literature, and Vincent van Gogh’s visionary yet misunderstood art forever altered how we see colour and emotion in painting. These individuals, and countless others like them, were neuroextraordinary, and their contributions continue to shape the world profoundly.
Psychedelics and Self-Exploration
When it comes to psychedelics, I believe my early fascination and subsequent lifelong study of psychedelic science stemmed from my unique way of thinking and perceiving the world. From a young age, I was drawn to the idea of exploring the mind, peeling back its layers to understand consciousness from the inside out. Psychedelics offered me a key to open the door to my mind, allowing me to see it in a way that was unfiltered by societal expectations or the pressures to conform to neurotypical norms.
But for me, psychedelics were more than just tools for self-exploration—they were transformative catalysts that allowed me to embrace my neuroextraordinary nature. Just as people become therapists to better understand their own traumas, or others are drawn to careers like medicine to better understand their own health struggles or heal from personal experiences, I was drawn to psychedelics because they offered me a unique pathway to delve into the inner workings of my mind and consciousness.
For many, the desire to heal or seek answers comes from external circumstances, but for me, it was always about unlocking the internal mysteries that made me feel different. I wasn’t merely looking to solve external problems; I wanted to dive into my own mental architecture, to understand how and why I experienced the world so differently. Psychedelics provided me with the tools to explore my thought processes, emotional patterns, and sensory experiences in a way that was free from the constraints of traditional societal frameworks. These substances allowed me to gain clarity on the intricate workings of my mind, not as something broken that needed fixing, but as something that deserved deeper understanding and exploration.
In many ways, psychedelics broke down the barriers that had always made me feel different, not to fix me, but to help me embrace and appreciate the way I was wired. Through psychedelic experiences, I was able to perceive my heightened sensitivity, my emotional depth, and my cognitive processes with acceptance, and without judgment. Psychedelics became a means of insight, shedding light on aspects of myself that I had spent years trying to suppress or normalize. They made space for a deeper understanding of my neuroextraordinary nature.
Historically, many neuroextraordinary individuals have turned to altered states of consciousness whether through meditation, spirituality, or substances like psychedelics to tap into the depths of their creative and intellectual potential. The mind’s capacity for innovative thought and unique problem-solving often emerges when freed from the rigid boundaries of conventional thinking. Psychedelics, in particular, have been a gateway for many individuals to explore new dimensions of thought, consciousness, and creativity. These experiences not only allowed me to better understand myself but also expanded my perception of what the human mind is capable of.
Psychedelics, then, became the tool that helped me unlock the deeper layers of my mind. They provided clarity where there had once been confusion, self-acceptance where there had been doubt, and a sense of freedom where there had been constraint. They were not a cure, but a key a way to access and explore the very things that made me neuroextraordinary.
A Call for Recognition
Neuroextraordinary is not just a label it’s a recognition of the immense value that comes from being different. It’s an acknowledgment that the fringes of the cognitive spectrum are not deficits to be corrected but extraordinary variations to be celebrated. For too long, society has focused on “normalizing” those of us at the edges, trying to force us into boxes we will never fit into. But what if, instead of trying to make us “normal,” society embraced our differences as strengths? What if, rather than seeing neuroextraordinary traits as quirks or deficiencies, we viewed them as unique perspectives that have the potential to contribute to the betterment of society?
The truth is that people who think differently often push boundaries, solve problems in novel ways, and bring about the kind of breakthroughs that move society forward. By reframing the conversation from neurodivergent to neuroextraordinary, we can start to shift the narrative, moving away from seeing cognitive differences as deficits and beginning to see them as incredible assets.
Yes, our experience of the world is different. Yes, it is often harder to navigate a society built for neurotypicals. But it is in this difference that we find our power. Just as a painter may use an unexpected combination of colours to create something breathtaking, or a scientist might discover a revolutionary concept by thinking outside conventional frameworks, neuroextraordinary individuals can transform the world around them. We need not to be “normalized,” but to be understood, accepted, and given the space to contribute.
I’ve observed over the last decade that society, at least in Western countries, is becoming more aware of those at the intellectual fringes. Slowly, society is starting to recognize those of us who are different, and hopefully one day this will lead to greater acceptance, making it easier for neuroextraordinary individuals to interact and relate to society at large. Still, neuroextraordinary individuals remain largely invisible, often misinterpreted as simply antisocial, eccentric, or exhibiting “weird” behavior, rather than being recognized for their unique cognitive wiring.
The conclusion we must reach is that being neuroextraordinary is not a flaw or something to be fixed. It’s a different, often misunderstood way of experiencing the world. We need to move away from the idea that the goal should be to force everyone into a neurotypical mould and instead focus on fostering environments where those who think differently can thrive.
By embracing neuroextraordinary individuals, society stands to benefit from the creativity, innovation, and insight that arise from minds that don’t conform to traditional norms. Acceptance and understanding are the keys to unlocking the true potential of those who exist on the cognitive edges not just for their benefit, but for the enrichment of society as a whole.
The term neuroextraordinary better captures the experience and potential of those who think differently. As we begin to understand the depth and complexity of cognitive diversity, it’s crucial to stop framing differences in terms of deficits and start seeing them as variations that can bring extraordinary contributions to society. Whether through art, science, technology, or simply new ways of perceiving the world, neuroextraordinary individuals have always shaped the trajectory of human progress. Let’s celebrate that, and make room for even more.
I Smoke Weed Because My Grandma Loved Me
My grandma passed away over ten years ago, but even after all this time, I find myself thinking of her often. Her wisdom and nurturing profoundly influenced me. She was the first person to plant the seed that grew into my lifelong passion for cannabis and psychedelics— a passion that has now become a career in the cannabis industry spanning over two decades.
Though I don’t typically consider myself sentimental, when it comes to my grandma, it’s all heart. She loved me unconditionally, and in hindsight, I now see how crucial that was. I grew up in a traditional, conservative middle-class family where following the rules and meeting expectations was the norm. To be clear, my parents did their best and loved me deeply, but my grandma’s unconditional love was a rare and precious gift.
She was funny, caring, and always made incredible food, but most importantly, she was mischievous. She taught me that being a good person and following your passion weren’t always tied to playing by the rules. A life well-lived, she believed, required breaking a few rules if you wanted to have fun.
Nelson is my ancestral home, where generations of my family have lived, including my grandma for most of her adult life. For those in the know, you know. For those unfamiliar, from the late ’70s to the mid-’90s, Nelson was a hub of cannabis production in BC. Long before cannabis was legalized in Canada, the cannabis coming out of Nelson was among the best in the world. Looking back, it’s no surprise my grandma and her friends enjoyed the occasional puff.
In my mid-teens, my grandma and I discovered that we both smoked weed. That revelation was incredible to me! She was the first adult I knew who admitted to smoking. Here was someone I admired, someone I loved, and my mentor, who had chosen to break the rules and get high from time to time. Could cannabis really be all that bad? She certainly didn’t fit the stereotype of the “stoners” portrayed in the “war on drugs” propaganda pushed by public schools. She was knowledgeable about cultivation, and both the recreational and medicinal uses of the plant. Plus, she made the best pot brownies—ever.
My grandma became my first smoking buddy and my first cannabis educator. She taught me that cannabis wasn’t the “devil’s weed,” but rather an enjoyable, social activity that could connect you with your community and help you understand yourself more deeply. Unbeknownst to both of us, her wisdom laid the foundation for what would become my lifelong passion and career.
Looking back, my love for cannabis is forever intertwined with the love I shared with my grandma. It’s why I spent years breaking the rules to gain knowledge about cannabis and other psychoactive plants. For me, cannabis was a gateway not to harder drugs, but to an incredible life filled with adventure, meaningful connections with remarkable people, and a career that has been both successful and fulfilling, with still more to come.
It all began with my grandma’s love, something I will always remember and be grateful for.
Plant Nerd
Morning Glory: A Botanical and Cultural Overview
Morning Glory, known scientifically as Ipomoea tricolor and Ipomoea violacea, is a plant with a deep-rooted history and significance, particularly in indigenous and shamanistic practices across various cultures. This beautiful flowering vine has long intrigued botanists and enthusiasts alike, not only for its vibrant, funnel-shaped blooms but also for its potent psychoactive properties.
Botanical Overview
Morning Glory is a climbing vine that can reach up to three meters in height. It is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and striking flowers, which can vary in colour from blue to purple, pink, or white. The plant thrives in warm, sunny climates, often seen gracing gardens or wild areas with its eye-catching flowers. However, beneath its appealing exterior lies a unique phytochemical profile that has drawn the attention of researchers and users alike.
Ecological Role
Morning Glory is well-adapted to a variety of environments, ranging from temperate to tropical regions. Its hardy nature and ability to spread quickly make it a dominant player in many ecosystems. The plant’s flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies, while its vines provide shelter for small animals. Additionally, its seeds have evolved unique mechanisms to aid in dispersal, allowing the plant to colonize new areas effectively. This ecological resilience ensures Morning Glory continues to flourish across diverse landscapes.
Traditional and Modern Uses
For centuries, Morning Glory seeds have been used in indigenous cultures, particularly in Central and South America, for their psychoactive effects. The seeds contain ergoline alkaloids, most notably lysergic acid amide (LSA), which is chemically related to LSD. These seeds were historically consumed in ritualistic and spiritual contexts, where they were believed to induce visions, facilitate communication with deities, and provide insights during shamanic ceremonies.
In modern times, Morning Glory seeds are still sought after for their psychoactive properties, often used recreationally or in personal spiritual exploration. However, they are consumed with caution due to the variability in potency and the possibility of uncomfortable side effects like nausea or disorientation. While the cultural practices surrounding Morning Glory have evolved, the reverence for its ability to alter consciousness remains.
Phytochemical Properties
The primary psychoactive compound in Morning Glory seeds is LSA (Lysergic Acid Amide), a naturally occurring ergoline alkaloid that interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain. LSA is structurally similar to LSD and can induce altered states of consciousness, including visual and auditory hallucinations, enhanced emotional sensitivity, and shifts in perception. Users often describe the effects as dreamlike, with a profound sense of connectedness to nature and the cosmos.
While LSA is the most well-known compound in Morning Glory seeds, other alkaloids present in the seeds contribute to the overall psychoactive experience. These additional compounds may have synergistic effects, modulating the intensity and duration of the psychoactive journey. Research into these compounds is ongoing, with scientists seeking to understand their precise roles and potential therapeutic applications.
Conclusion
Morning Glory is a fascinating plant that bridges the worlds of botany, culture, and consciousness. Its vibrant beauty and psychoactive properties have made it a subject of intrigue for generations. As research continues and conservation efforts increase, Morning Glory will remain an important symbol of the deep connections between humans and the natural world, reminding us of the intricate relationships that exist within our ecosystems and spiritual traditions.