SXSW Reveals 2024 Schedule Focusing on Psychedelics and Removing Cannabis Topic

This week, at the distinguished South by Southwest (SXSW) conference, the organizers revealed an extensive and multifaceted program consisting of over 450 meticulously curated sessions scheduled to commence in March. This diverse assortment includes a select number of panels that will concentrate on the legal aspects of cannabis, in addition to an impressive array of 13 sessions dedicated to exploring the realm of psychedelics. This notable inclusion reflects the evolving interests and priorities of this avant-garde conference, especially as cannabis continues to integrate more seamlessly into the societal mainstream and psychedelics begin to emerge as a forefront issue in the discourse surrounding policy and public health.

Notably, the 2024 edition of SXSW will feature a pioneering psychedelics-specific track, which is one of the twenty-four distinct thematic areas planned for this illustrious event. The description of this track highlights that, as the therapeutic potential of psychedelics becomes increasingly recognized within the general public’s awareness, there is a growing need to examine how revolutionary research and the burgeoning business landscape will shape the future use and perception of both novel and traditional psychoactive substances.

For the first time since the year 2018, the SXSW event will not include a separate cannabis-focused track. However, there will still be a limited selection of individual panels addressing various aspects of this topic. These discussions will delve into the burgeoning opportunities within the cannabis industry, examine the influence of advocacy on cannabis policy, and explore strategies for establishing a balanced and health-conscious engagement with psychoactive plants.

The psychedelics track at SXSW promises a rich and varied program. It will feature sessions that cover a wide range of topics, including the use of MDMA, an exploration of transformative psychedelics that extend beyond the scope of MDMA, specialized training in psychedelic therapy, the role of entheogens in communities of color, the commercial aspects of psilocybin therapy, and an open forum for a broad discussion on psychedelics, among others.

The selection of these sessions was a comprehensive process involving SXSW staff and a democratic community voting system. This approach ensured a diverse and representative selection of topics, drawn from a pool of hundreds of submissions provided by a wide range of contributors, including experts in the field, advocates for policy change, renowned celebrities, and engaged members of the general public.

The 2024 edition of South by Southwest (SXSW) is scheduled to take place from March 8th to March 16th in Austin, Texas.

Here are some instances of sessions highlighted within SXSW’s programming dedicated to psychedelics:

FDA Approved Love? Exploring MDMA’s Psychedelic Journey

The panel titled “FDA Approved Love? Exploring MDMA’s Psychedelic Journey,” set to be featured at the South by Southwest (SXSW) 2024 conference, presents a profound and in-depth exploration of the remarkable transition of MDMA from a recreational substance primarily associated with dance culture to a potential therapeutic agent undergoing late-stage clinical trials. This session is particularly timely, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is anticipated to approve MDMA for therapeutic use as early as the coming year, marking a significant milestone in the perception and application of this substance.

Esteemed experts Rick Doblin and Julie Holland from the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) lead this panel. Their expertise and extensive involvement in psychedelic research provide an authoritative perspective on the evolution of MDMA. The panel aims to shed light on the multifaceted journey of MDMA, tracing its history from its origins in social and recreational contexts to its promising future in the realm of mental health treatment.

The session is designed to offer a comprehensive overview of the scientific, cultural, and regulatory landscapes that have influenced MDMA’s transformation. It will delve into the rigorous process of clinical trials and research that has gradually repositioned MDMA as a plausible therapeutic tool, particularly in the treatment of various mental health disorders. Furthermore, the assembled panel shall deliberate upon the broader ramifications stemming from the prospective approval of MDMA by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This comprehensive examination shall encompass a nuanced exploration of the societal, medical, and ethical dimensions that ensue from the integration of a once-recreational substance, previously associated with the domain of dance floors, into the fabric of mainstream therapeutic modalities.

This enlightening discussion aims to provide attendees with a nuanced understanding of MDMA’s journey, highlighting the complexities and potential breakthroughs associated with its transition from a recreational drug to a potentially revolutionary tool in psychotherapy. It underscores the evolving narrative of psychedelics and their emerging role in modern medicine and mental health treatment.

Finding Balance: Your Relationship with Psychoactive Plants

The panel titled “Finding Balance: Your Relationship with Psychoactive Plants,” presented at the South by Southwest (SXSW) 2024 conference, offers an invaluable exploration into the world of psychoactive substances. This session is led by Amanda Reiman, a highly respected public health researcher and harm reduction advocate with over twenty years of dedicated study in cannabis policy. Her expertise provides a profound and insightful perspective on the responsible use of psychoactive plants, including psychedelics and cannabis.

This panel is meticulously designed to address the crucial aspects of developing and maintaining a mindful and healthy relationship with these substances. It emphasizes the significance of understanding and respecting the powerful nature of psychoactive plants and their effects on the human psyche and body. The primary objective of the session is to endow participants with the requisite knowledge and instrumental resources essential for adeptly managing their engagements with these substances, with a paramount emphasis on safeguarding both their mental and physical well-being.

Furthermore, the panel will offer an extensive overview of what constitutes healthy consumption patterns. It will explore the fine line between use and abuse, providing practical advice on recognizing and adhering to safe usage practices. This part of the session is particularly crucial in educating individuals on how to engage with these substances responsibly, minimizing potential risks while maximizing their therapeutic benefits.

In addition to discussing healthy consumption habits, the panel will also address the challenges and solutions related to the problematic or dangerous use of psychoactive plants. Amanda Reiman will share her insights on identifying warning signs of unhealthy consumption and offer strategies for intervention and recovery. This will encompass an in-depth discourse on the significance of bolstering support systems, availing oneself of professional assistance, and leveraging community-based resources, all of which serve as invaluable tools in assisting individuals in reclaiming equilibrium and mastery over their utilization of said substances.

“Finding Balance: Your Relationship with Psychoactive Plants” is more than just a panel; it’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the complexities and nuances of interacting with psychoactive plants. It aims to foster a community of informed, responsible, and health-conscious individuals who can navigate the realm of these powerful substances with awareness and respect.

MDMA Saved My Life: Psychedelics and Healing From Sexual Trauma

The panel titled “MDMA Saved My Life: Psychedelics and Healing From Sexual Trauma,” featured at the South by Southwest (SXSW) 2024 conference, represents a profoundly significant and sensitive topic in the realm of mental health and psychedelic therapy. This session brings together a panel of experienced therapists and esteemed representatives from both the Urban Indigenous Collective and The Phoenix Project. The primary focus of this panel is to delve into the deeply personal and transformative experiences of individuals who have endured sexual trauma and have found solace and healing through the use of psychedelics, particularly MDMA.

This session is meticulously structured to provide a comprehensive exploration of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in the context of sexual trauma recovery. The objective is to illuminate facets frequently relegated to obscurity or misconstrued in the realm of trauma, elucidating the pioneering methodologies through which substances such as MDMA, regarded as psychedelics, can be harnessed as potent instruments in expediting the journey of recuperation and restoration. The panel will include personal narratives that highlight the journey of healing, underscoring the pivotal role that psychedelics can play in this deeply personal and challenging journey.

Furthermore, the session will address the broader implications of using psychedelics in therapeutic settings, particularly in treating trauma-induced psychological conditions. The therapists on the panel will offer their professional insights into the therapeutic mechanisms of psychedelics, discussing how these substances can aid in breaking down emotional barriers, fostering a deeper understanding of the self, and catalyzing profound emotional release and healing.

Additionally, the involvement of representatives from the Urban Indigenous Collective and The Phoenix Project adds a unique and valuable perspective to the discussion. These organizations are known for their work in supporting marginalized and trauma-affected communities. Their contributions will highlight the cultural and societal dimensions of trauma and the role of community and collective healing practices in conjunction with psychedelic therapy.

“MDMA Saved My Life: Psychedelics and Healing From Sexual Trauma” is not just a panel; it is a crucial conversation that brings to the forefront the potential of psychedelics as a transformative agent in the realm of mental health and trauma recovery. It promises to be an enlightening, empathetic, and educational session, offering hope and new perspectives to individuals affected by sexual trauma and to the professionals who support them in their journey toward healing.

The Bar’s New Top Shelf: Elevation Over Inebriation

The panel titled “The Bar’s New Top Shelf: Elevation Over Inebriation,” to be featured at the South by Southwest (SXSW) 2024 conference, addresses a topic of increasing relevance and interest in contemporary society. This session is centered around the growing public interest in alternatives to alcohol that offer unique experiences, focusing on the exploration of a wide array of consciousness-altering substances and their legal standing. The discourse encompasses an extensive spectrum of chemical compounds, encompassing a diverse array such as Kanna, kava, psilocybin, kratom, coca, damiana, mescaline, cannabis, ketamine, GHB, and other comparable substances.

This comprehensive panel seeks to provide an in-depth examination of the historical and cultural contexts in which these natural substances have been used for relaxation and socialization purposes. It aims to highlight the long-standing human tradition of utilizing natural elements to achieve altered states of consciousness in a safe and controlled manner. The deliberation shall delve into the intricate dynamics that exist at the intersection of societal norms, prevailing legal structures, and the prospective viability of these substances as alternatives to conventional alcoholic libations.

The session will also address the challenges and barriers faced in integrating these substances into mainstream acceptance, especially considering the legal and regulatory hurdles. The panelists will explore the dichotomy between societal acceptance of alcohol and the stigmatization or legal restrictions placed on other psychoactive substances. This exploration will include an analysis of the historical context of alcohol’s dominance in social settings and the potential for a paradigm shift towards a post-alcohol world.

Furthermore, the panel will pose critical questions regarding the future of social and recreational substance use. It will explore what it would take to create a world where alcohol is not the primary or default choice for socialization and relaxation. This includes discussing the potential benefits and risks associated with the broader acceptance and use of these alternative substances, as well as the possible implications for public health, social dynamics, and legal systems.

“The Bar’s New Top Shelf: Elevation Over Inebriation” promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening session, offering a forward-looking perspective on the evolving landscape of psychoactive substance use and its potential role in shaping future social norms and legal policies.

Man vs. Nature: The Commercialization of Psilocybin Medicine

The panel entitled “Man vs. Nature: The Commercialization of Psilocybin Medicine,” scheduled to be a part of the South by Southwest (SXSW) 2024 conference, presents a critical and timely discussion on the intersection of scientific research, legal frameworks, and commercial interests in the realm of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound. Esteemed researchers and experts, including Sue Sisley, a renowned researcher, and Shawn Hauser, a partner at Vicente LLP with extensive experience in the legal aspects of psychedelics and cannabis businesses, are set to lead this panel.

This session is meticulously designed to delve into the multifaceted legal and commercial implications of both the research into and the potential legalization of psilocybin. The conversation will encompass a broad spectrum of topics, including the current state of psilocybin research, the legal challenges and opportunities that arise as this field advances, and the commercial interests that are increasingly becoming a part of this landscape.

A significant focus of the panel will be the exploration of why the majority of clinical studies on psilocybin currently utilize synthetic versions of the substance, despite its natural occurrence in various mushrooms. This topic will open up discussions on the scientific, legal, and economic reasoning behind this preference for synthetic psilocybin in research settings. The panelists will provide insights into the complexities involved in studying natural vs. synthetic substances, including regulatory hurdles, consistency in potency and composition, and the challenges of standardizing natural products for clinical research.

Furthermore, the panel will also address the ongoing debate and efforts among some researchers to advocate for the study of natural psilocybin products. This segment of the discourse will engage in an in-depth exploration of the conceivable advantages and obstacles inherent in the investigation of unaltered psilocybin derived from natural sources. This examination will encompass considerations of historical, cultural, and ecological dimensions associated with the utilization of naturally occurring substances, along with an analysis of the subsequent implications of these factors on the spheres of legal and commercial advancements.

“Man vs. Nature: The Commercialization of Psilocybin Medicine” promises to offer a comprehensive and in-depth look at the evolving landscape of psilocybin research and its implications. It aims to provide a balanced view, taking into account the scientific, legal, commercial, and ethical considerations that come into play in the journey of bringing psilocybin from nature to the marketplace. The panel is poised to be a significant contribution to the ongoing conversation about the future of psilocybin and its role in medicine and society.

Psychedelic Leadership and Systems Change

The panel “Psychedelic Leadership and Systems Change,” scheduled to be part of the prestigious South by Southwest (SXSW) 2024 conference, addresses a compelling and contemporary topic at the intersection of business leadership and the use of altered states of consciousness. This session features a distinguished panel, including a vice president from Google and members from the Psychedelic Leadership Company and the MAPS Public Benefit Corporation, and is set to explore the influence of psychedelic experiences on leadership qualities and systemic change in the business world.

This panel aims to provide an in-depth examination of how prominent business leaders, from Steve Jobs to former Twitter head Jack Dorsey, and Elon Musk, have increasingly acknowledged and incorporated altered states of consciousness into their professional and personal lives. The discussion will delve into the potential of psychedelic experiences to enhance leadership skills, particularly focusing on whether these experiences can foster qualities such as creativity, open-mindedness, empathy, and prosocial behavior, which are crucial for effective and transformative leadership.

Moreover, the session will explore the broader implications of integrating psychedelic experiences within the framework of business leadership. It will question whether such experiences can contribute positively to living in balance, both as individuals and within organizations, by encouraging empathy and socially beneficial behavior. This aspect of the discussion is particularly pertinent in the context of the evolving corporate culture, which increasingly values emotional intelligence and social responsibility.

However, the panel will not shy away from addressing the potential risks and downsides of using psychedelics in the context of leadership. It will critically examine the possibility that psychedelics might amplify negative traits such as narcissism or foster extractive and exploitative behaviors, especially when used without proper guidance or understanding. This aspect of the discussion aims to provide a balanced view and provoke thoughtful consideration of the responsible use of psychedelics in leadership development.

“Psychedelic Leadership and Systems Change” is poised to be a groundbreaking session, offering a nuanced and multifaceted perspective on the role of psychedelics in shaping contemporary leadership and organizational systems. It promises to engage attendees in a thought-provoking dialogue about the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating altered states of consciousness into the sphere of business and leadership.

Here are brief explanations for a few of the sessions about cannabis

From the Confinement of Correctional Facilities to the Path of Prosperity: Examining the Transformative Potential of Advocacy in the Context of Cannabis Legalization

In the contemporary landscape of the United States, a considerable number of states have embraced varying degrees of cannabis legalization, marking a significant shift in public perception and policy regarding this once-taboo substance. However, despite this evolving legal framework, a persistent challenge persists – individuals who have been incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses or bear the weight of prior convictions continue to endure enduring and often far-reaching consequences.

This thought-provoking panel discussion brings together a distinguished ensemble of individuals dedicated to catalyzing change in this sphere. Amongst the eminent participants is Mutulu “M-1” Olugbala, a prominent figure from the renowned hip-hop duo Dead Prez. His presence lends a unique perspective, amplifying the relevance of the discourse by bridging the worlds of art and advocacy.

Furthermore, the panel will feature the involvement of esteemed representatives from the nonprofit organization known as the Last Prisoner Project. This organization has garnered acknowledgment and accolades for its unwavering dedication to addressing the injustices perpetuated by the criminalization of cannabis. Through their ceaseless endeavors, the Last Prisoner Project strives to liberate individuals entangled in the punitive ramifications of antiquated cannabis legislation and seeks to reinstate their honor and societal standing.

The overarching theme of this panel is the exploration of “the power of advocacy through storytelling, activist collaborations, and direct policy change to improve the lives of those harmed by cannabis criminalization.” Within this multifaceted framework, participants will dissect the intricacies of utilizing narratives as potent tools for change, forging synergistic alliances amongst passionate activists, and driving direct alterations to prevailing policies.

As we collectively navigate the intricate terrain of cannabis legalization and its aftermath, this assembly of luminaries will shed light on the possibilities, challenges, and triumphs that await those who commit themselves to the noble cause of alleviating the hardships endured by individuals ensnared within the complexities of cannabis criminalization. Their insights promise to inspire, inform, and catalyze a renewed commitment to the pursuit of justice and equity for all.

The esteemed Nancy Whiteman, a distinguished luminary hailing from the renowned Wana Brands, shall assume the role of the sagacious guide in an illuminating discourse entitled “Cannabis Around the World: Where Are the Big Opportunities?” Within this thoroughly curated deliberation, a meticulous exploration of the cannabis terrain extending beyond the geographical confines of the United States shall be undertaken. This discerning examination aims to unveil auspicious horizons and nascent opportunities that entice astute investors and enterprising individuals.

The panorama of this discussion extends far beyond the American borders, casting a discerning eye towards the European Union, where the medicinal cannabis arena has been legitimized in no fewer than twenty-two member states. The ever-evolving landscape of cannabis legalization in the European continent presents a fertile terrain for exploration, as it navigates the complex intersection of policy, commerce, and patient care. As medical cannabis continues its inexorable march toward mainstream acceptance, these European nations provide a captivating tableau of evolving market dynamics that demand a closer examination.

Furthermore, the dialogue shall traverse the realms of Southeast Asia, with a particular emphasis on Thailand, a nation that has undertaken a remarkable journey into the realms of cannabis legalization. In a watershed moment in 2022, Thailand ushered in an era of progressive cannabis policy by legalizing the cultivation, sale, and use of cannabis for both medicinal and recreational purposes. Within this dynamic environment, it is worth noting that an impressive count of nearly 6,000 cannabis licenses have been judiciously sanctioned, exemplifying the nation’s fervent commitment to the responsible and regulated embrace of this historically significant plant. The ensuing discussion will delve into the multifaceted facets of Thailand’s cannabis journey, unraveling the intricacies of its burgeoning industry, exploring the unique challenges it encounters, and pondering the far-reaching implications of this transformative policy shift.

Fundamentally, the symposium titled “Cannabis Around the World: Where Are the Significant Opportunities?” functions as an illuminating guidepost, illuminating the convoluted tapestry of worldwide cannabis markets. This discerning exploration shall illuminate the myriad opportunities that arise from the diverse and evolving landscape of cannabis policy, shedding light on the pathways that beckon investors, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders eager to navigate the intricate tapestry of cannabis entrepreneurship beyond the borders of the United States. The revelations that emerge from this discourse promise to inform, inspire, and catalyze a deeper understanding of the evolving dynamics of cannabis on the global stage.