Jun 10, 2024

Psychedelics in a corporate world | Bourne Buirski

Dive into an enthralling conversation with Bourne Buirski, a trailblazer in the fashion industry who has spent the last decade shaping iconic brands like Barkers in New Zealand. In this episode of Sink or Swim, we explore Bourne's deep connection to surfing and wave pools, delving into the exhilarating world of catching the perfect wave.

Bourne opens up about the profound impact his family has had on his mental health and candidly shares his journey with psychedelics, revealing how they've played a crucial role in overcoming his mental health challenges. This episode is a compelling mix of fashion, surf culture, and personal growth—don't miss it!

Watch the full episode below on Youtube or on Spotify.

 

Podcast Summary

Bourne, a dedicated surfer who also has a background in professional bodyboarding, shares how his love for the ocean has been a source of solace and spiritual fulfillment. He recounts how surfing, introduced to him by his free-spirited, hippie father, became a crucial bonding activity and a means of finding inner peace. Despite the demands of a corporate life and family responsibilities, Bourne emphasizes the importance of making time for his passion, which he considers essential for maintaining his mental health and overall well-being.

Bourne's discussion extends to his professional life, where he navigates the challenges of balancing a demanding career with his need for personal fulfillment. He highlights the necessity of finding a work-life balance that allows for flexibility, such as negotiating work hours around surf conditions. Bourne stresses the importance of being upfront with employers about these needs and finding workplaces that respect and support such arrangements. This approach, he believes, leads to greater job satisfaction and productivity, benefiting both employees and employers. His perspective reflects a broader shift towards more flexible and accommodating work environments, a change accelerated by the global pandemic and the rise of remote work.

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to Bourne personal struggles with alcohol and his transformative journey through psychedelic therapy. He candidly discusses his battle with alcohol dependence, a common but often underacknowledged issue, and his desire to break free from its grip.

Through extensive research and personal reflection, Bourne discovered the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, particularly plant-based medicines like the San Pedro cactus. He describes a profound experience with a Shaman in New Zealand, where he confronted and processed deep-seated traumas related to his father's early death and his tumultuous upbringing. This experience, he notes, marked a turning point in his life, helping him to let go of past pain and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

Bourne advocates for the responsible use of psychedelics as powerful tools for healing and personal growth, calling for better education and understanding of these substances. He points out that, much like alcohol, the potential benefits or harms of psychedelics depend on how they are used and the intentions behind their use. His story underscores the importance of seeking alternative therapies and support systems to address mental health issues and emphasizes the need for society to be more open and informed about the potential of such treatments.

Overall, Bournes this podcast is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the ongoing quest for a balanced and fulfilling life, offering valuable insights into the intersection of personal passion, professional life, and mental well-being.