Preparing for Your First Psychedelic Journey: Insights from Webdelics Podcast with Uzo

Introduction

Embarking on a first psychedelic journey can stir excitement, curiosity, and, naturally, a bit of nervousness. On a recent episode of the Webdelics podcast, host Scott Mason and special guest Uzo—an educator, festival producer, and advocate for mindful psychedelic use—delved deep into what newcomers should consider before taking their first step into this transformative experience. Their candid, heartfelt discussion offers a nuanced roadmap for anyone considering exploring psychedelics for healing, self-discovery, or personal growth.

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Facing the Unknown: Understanding Your Fear

The journey into psychedelics does not begin with the first dose—it begins with our mindset. Scott Mason speaks openly about his initial fears: the urge to face inner traumas, the possibility of profound shifts in perspective, and the uncertainty about how life might feel “after.” Uzo acknowledges these anxieties, stressing that fear often comes from venturing into the “realm of the unknown”—a core aspect of the psychedelic experience.

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Rather than pushing fears aside, Uzo encourages potential journeyers to write down their fears, reflect on them, and trace their roots. This introspective practice helps demystify anxieties, framing them as stepping stones rather than obstacles. Understanding your fears isn't just preparation; it's an ongoing conversation with yourself that can foster compassion and curiosity.

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Setting Intentions: The Key to a Meaningful Trip

One of the most important takeaways is the necessity of setting clear, mindful intentions before embarking on a psychedelic journey. Uzo highlights that the quality of your intention can fundamentally shape the experience. Are you seeking healing? Closure from past trauma? Or simply an honest exploration of self?

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Setting an intention isn’t about scripting what will happen, but rather guiding the experience in a positive, open-hearted direction. Uzo suggests being open to whatever arises—sometimes the most meaningful insights come when we allow the journey to “show us what we need to see,” rather than forcing a specific outcome.

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Practical tip: Write down your intentions in a notebook and revisit them before, during, and after the experience. This can serve as both an anchor and a record of your transformation.

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Crafting a Safe and Supportive Set & Setting

“Where” and “with whom” you journey can make all the difference. Uzo underscores the importance of choosing a physical environment that feels safe and grounding—ideally in nature or a comfortable sanctuary. It’s crucial to research your guide or facilitator and to understand the ground rules of the space. Uzo gently explains why minimal speaking and outside interference can help protect the sanctity of the inner process, allowing you to journey inward without distraction.

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Involving family or loved ones? They, too, have a role: offer unconditional love and non-judgmental support. As Uzo puts it, “You cannot have any judgment on an individual that is going to go on the journey in order to discover something new for themselves.” Family can help by simply being present and supportive—without trying to manage, direct, or interpret your experience for you.

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Preparation & Integration: The Before and After

Psychedelic journeys don’t fit easily into daily schedules. Uzo recommends clearing your calendar before and after, fasting or eating lightly, taking care to be in a positive mental space, and practicing mindful movement or yoga beforehand. After the journey, take time to rest, journal, and reflect on what surfaced—since insights can continue to unfold days or even weeks later.

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Scott’s question about returning immediately to work after a session gets a clear answer: give yourself permission to process. Integration isn’t always straightforward, and feelings or revelations may arise long after the psychedelic effects wear off.

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The Expansiveness of the Experience

Uzo evocatively describes the sense of heightened perception and expanded consciousness—colors become vibrant, emotions deepen, and a profound sense of interconnectedness often arises. While there can be challenges or even moments of discomfort, the rewards often include greater self-compassion, perspective shifts, and, for many, a lasting desire to nurture love and kindness in everyday life.

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Final Thoughts: Embracing Transformation

Preparing for a first psychedelic experience is as much about anticipation and self-care as it is about surrender and wonder. Both Scott and Uzo reinforce that, when approached mindfully, psychedelics can help dissolve personal barriers, encourage forgiveness, and illuminate paths to growth and healing.

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Uzo’s parting wisdom is simple and powerful: “Listen to your soul and give people love unconditionally.” As you or someone you love prepares for a psychedelic journey, hold space for compassion, curiosity, and openness. The transformation begins long before the journey itself—and echoes far beyond its end.

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Interested in exploring further?

Check out the full episode of Webdelics or connect with Uzo and his community at the yearly Unrevealed festival during Miami Art Week. And, as always, subscribe to Webdelics for ongoing insights into the world of plant medicine and psychedelics.

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