Paul Austin on Microdosing: Psychedelics for Leadership Development | TNW Conference 2017

Microdosing: Psychedelics for Leadership Development and Workflow Optimization Prominent visionaries, thought-leaders, and scientists have attributed aspects of their professional success to the use of psychedelic substances. Examples include Steve Jobs, Aldous Huxley, and Francis Crick, co-discoverer of the DNA molecule. More recently, renowned thought-leader and Silicon Valley investor Tim Ferriss said he knows many successful entrepreneurs who use psychedelics: "The billionaires I know, almost without exception, use hallucinogens on a regular basis. [They're] trying to be very disruptive and look at the problems in the world ... and ask completely new questions." Enter micro-dosing. As an entrepreneur, you have likely witnessed the meteoric rise of interest in the consumption of low-doses of psychedelics for creativity and personal wellness. Tech media outlets like Wired, the Verge, and the Hustle have covered this growing phenomenon, and how high-functioning members of entrepreneurial communities leverage it for improved mental acuity and reductions in anxiety. In his talk, Paul details how micro-dosing is more accessible than high-level doses on a day to day basis, and how technologists and entrepreneurs can leverage its potential to work more efficient, not longer, hours. Outlining the potential benefits of micro-dosing from the standpoints of productivity, mental wellness/clarity, and personal development, and how enhancements in these spheres naturally foster growth towards social entrepreneurship, community building, and the strengthening of relationships founded on trust rather than contracts. He also details practicalities and protocols of micro-dosing while debunking myths of a decades-long taboo around psychedelic substances. Paul is committed to changing the cultural conversation about psychedelics through his platform, The Third Wave. Part social entrepreneur, part psychedelic advocate, Paul pushes accepted norms to develop more effective systems in which we live. Considered an expert on the burgeoning topic of microdosing, he has hosted seminars for hundreds of people in places like Berlin, Amsterdam, Portland, and New York City. For three years, Paul built and ran a remote online teaching business while living in Thailand, Portugal, and Mexico. He is currently in the process of establishing a Public Benefit Corporation focused on responsibly re-integrating psychedelics into Western society.