In this episode of “Life Without Stress,” Patrick Kicken speaks with Lotte Boekhout about the therapeutic use of truffles and psychedelics. Lotte, who has more than a decade of experience in the mental health field and as an ACT therapist, shares her expertise as a psychedelics guide at FLO Coaching.
The talk goes deep into various aspects: from how truffles work and microdosing to the importance of the right setting and guidance. They also discuss the nervous system, emotional processing, and how psychedelic experiences can contribute to personal growth and healing. Lotte highlights both the scientific and more spiritual sides of this work, emphasizing the importance of safe, conscious exploration. The talk also touches on broader themes such as values-driven living, the role of the ego, and the integration of psychedelic experiences into everyday life.
Transcription of the Podcast – Transforming with truffles
The transcription has been edited slightly to make it easier to read.
Introduction
Patrick Kikken: A new episode of Life Without Stress. My name is Patrick Kikken and I’m sitting here across from Lotte Boekhout. Lotte, you came all the way here from Anna Paulowna. How long were you on the road?
Lotte Boekhout: Three hours by public transportation.
Patrick: And then suddenly you’re sitting across from me in Vinkeveen. What’s that like?
Lotte: Fun, I’m looking forward to it!
Podcast and Psychedelics
Patrick: You haven’t been featured often in podcasts, but I found an episode with your husband, Floris Wolswijk, and you also started your own podcast since December: Truffles and Transformation. Great title, immediately clear what it’s about. We’re going to talk about psychedelics and coaching with truffles. Just to be clear: this is completely legal in the Netherlands. Can you explain what truffles are exactly?
What Are Truffles?
Lotte: Truffles grow underground and are the underground fungi of mushrooms. In the Netherlands they are grown and are legal, while magic mushrooms – which grow above ground – are not. Why that is, I don’t really know either. But in terms of effect, they are fairly similar.
First Experience with Psychedelics
Patrick: How did you come into contact with truffles?
Lotte: About ten years ago, through parties. First recreationally with MDMA and later with truffles, often at home with friends. That was always a beautiful experience. But during those experiences a kind of inner voice also surfaced: Lotte, maybe you should be nicer to yourself, work less hard or relax more.
Psychedelics and Coaching
Patrick: You are a psychedelic guide at FLO Coaching and have a background in mental health. How did your interest in this come about?
Lotte: I studied pedagogy and always knew I wanted to mean something to others. My mother comes from a medical family and became a therapist herself, and my sister is a doctor. So that caring side is in our lives.
Patrick: Can you call yourself a healer?
Lotte: No, more of a facilitator. I’m just there for people. But if you look at the core of what a healer does, it’s being present and guiding, just like a shaman or medicine woman.
The Effects of Psychedelics
Patrick: How does a truffle experience help with life questions?
Lotte: It removes the noise and puts you in touch with what you feel deep inside. You can get clear whether a choice really suits you.
Patrick: Is the effect different for men and women?
Lotte: Men sometimes have more trouble getting to their feelings, but psychedelics actually help break down that barrier.
Microdosing and Guidance
Patrick: What is microdosing?
Lotte: A small dose of psychedelics, often truffles. You take a dose every few days that subtly helps with focus and relaxation, with no visual effects.
Patrick: And a trip seater?
Lotte: That’s someone who stays sober and monitors a safe environment. Compare it to an attendant on a deep dive.
Psychedelics and Relationships
Patrick: Can psychedelics improve a relationship or sex life?
Lotte: Yes. They can help clear blockages, clarify desires and deepen the connection with your partner.
FLO Coaching and E-book
Patrick: FLO Coaching also offers a free e-book. What is that about?
Lotte: On how to properly prepare for a psychedelic experience, minimize the risks and integrate the insights into your daily life.
Lock
Patrick: Klinkt als een volwaardig boek. En je podcast Truffels en Transformatie?
Lotte: In it, I discuss these themes, often with guests or through a personal story.
Patrick: Thank you for this candid conversation, Lotte. Where can people find out more about you and FLO Coaching?
