What if your deepest pain held the key to your highest potential? In this powerful episode, JJ Ruescas sits down with transformation coach and author David Gilbert to explore The Alchemical Journey—a unique synthesis of ancient alchemy, modern psychology, and peak performance science.From breathwork and shadow work to archetypes and emotional excavation, this conversation is a deep dive into what it really means to transform. They discuss how life’s darkest moments can ignite lasting metamorphosis, how to decode limiting beliefs, and what it takes to embody your most aligned self—spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.⚗️ Prepare to question what performance, presence, and transformation mean for you—and why the real gold is found within.💡 This one isn’t just a conversation—it’s a journey. Are you ready to take the first step?📚 Grab the first chapters of David’s book: goldenlife.com🌐 More about David: davidgilbert.com

In this episode, we sit down with ‪@sunnystrasburglmft‬ , creator of the Theradelic Approach—a powerful and integrative framework that combines psychedelic-assisted therapy, trauma-informed care, archetypal psychology, and creative expression to support deep and lasting healing.

Sunny shares her personal evolution from artist and psychonaut to trauma-specialized therapist trained in EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and other advanced modalities.

She introduces the PANTHER Method:Preparation, Attunement, Needs of Protectors, Trauma Mapping, Holding Space, Empathy/Engagement, and Resolution/Integration—a structured yet flexible roadmap for safe and transformational psychedelic work.🌱

We explore:

🔸 Why psychedelics aren’t a quick fix and require skillful integration

🔸 How art, myth, and symbolic language enrich therapy

🔸 The importance of therapist self-work and countertransference awareness

🔸 Healing trauma in leaders to catalyze collective change

🔸 Tools for emotional regulation and self-inquiry like: “What part is speaking now?”

Sunny also opens up about her daily performance habits—nature, breathwork, meditation, and supportive relationships—and honors the mentors who shaped her path, including Dick Schwartz, James Hollis, and indigenous plant medicine teachers.

This is a deep dive into how modern therapy and ancient wisdom meet to optimize human potential. Whether you’re a therapist, seeker, or curious explorer—this conversation offers practical tools, insight, and inspiration.

🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations on healing, consciousness, and integration.

🔗 Connect with Sunny Strasburg: https://www.sunnystrasburg.com/

🔗 Learn more about the Theradelic Approach: https://amzn.to/3UhRM8d

In this powerful episode of the Optimizing Me Podcast, host JJ Ruescas sits down with Cesar Marin—a former CNN journalist turned thought leader in the psychedelic wellness space. Cesar shares his remarkable journey from high-stakes media to helping people over 50 reconnect with their purpose through microdosing, mindfulness, and intentional living.

Together, they explore the origins of Cultivating Wisdom and Microdosing Over 50, and how psychedelics—when used with care and clarity—can support mental clarity, emotional healing, and late-in-life reinvention.

Whether you're new to psychedelics or looking to deepen your personal growth journey, this episode is packed with grounded insights and practical tools.

🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:

🔸 How Cesar transitioned from CNN to plant medicine advocacy
🔸 The purpose behind Cultivating Wisdom and Microdosing Over 50
🔸 Microdosing protocols and how to find your personal “sweet spot”
🔸 Why intention, integration, and community are essential
🔸 Real-life stories of transformation and healing
🔸 Practical advice for exploring psychedelics responsibly
🔸 The role of mindfulness in optimizing life after 50

Tune in now and share this episode with someone ready to rediscover their purpose.