News
October 17, 2025
I took psychedelics at 64 (it was my scientist daughter’s idea)
When Brandon Robshaw’s daughter was studying the effects of psilocybin on the brain, her father was the guinea pig. Would a mind-bending experience change him?
Brandon Robshaw, a 64-year-old, never imagined he'd be delving into the world of psychedelics. But life, as it often does, took an unexpected turn thanks to his daughter, a dedicated scientist researching the neurological effects of psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms. When she needed a willing participant for her study, Brandon, with a mix of curiosity and paternal support, stepped up to the plate.
The premise was simple: would a mind-altering experience, carefully controlled and scientifically monitored, bring about any changes in a man in his sixties? For Brandon, the idea wasn't about chasing youthful exuberance or escaping reality. Instead, it was about contributing to his daughter's important work and, perhaps, learning something new about himself in the process.
The experience itself, while guided by scientific rigor, was undoubtedly profound. Brandon navigated a landscape of altered perceptions, vivid imagery, and introspective thoughts. He described moments of intense connection to the world around him, a feeling of interconnectedness that transcended his everyday awareness.
The real question, however, was whether this single, albeit powerful, experience would leave a lasting impact. His daughter's research aimed to uncover the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, particularly its ability to rewire neural pathways and potentially alleviate conditions like anxiety and depression. While Brandon wasn't necessarily seeking treatment for any specific ailment, the study provided a unique opportunity to explore the potential for personal growth and cognitive flexibility later in life.
The results of the study are still being analyzed, but Brandon reports a shift in perspective. He describes a greater appreciation for life's simple pleasures and a renewed sense of curiosity about the world. Whether these changes are directly attributable to the psilocybin experience remains to be seen, but Brandon's journey highlights the growing interest and scientific exploration surrounding the potential of psychedelics to unlock new understandings of the human mind. His willingness to participate in his daughter’s research underscores the powerful bond between father and daughter, and the courage to explore uncharted territories, even at 64.
The premise was simple: would a mind-altering experience, carefully controlled and scientifically monitored, bring about any changes in a man in his sixties? For Brandon, the idea wasn't about chasing youthful exuberance or escaping reality. Instead, it was about contributing to his daughter's important work and, perhaps, learning something new about himself in the process.
The experience itself, while guided by scientific rigor, was undoubtedly profound. Brandon navigated a landscape of altered perceptions, vivid imagery, and introspective thoughts. He described moments of intense connection to the world around him, a feeling of interconnectedness that transcended his everyday awareness.
The real question, however, was whether this single, albeit powerful, experience would leave a lasting impact. His daughter's research aimed to uncover the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, particularly its ability to rewire neural pathways and potentially alleviate conditions like anxiety and depression. While Brandon wasn't necessarily seeking treatment for any specific ailment, the study provided a unique opportunity to explore the potential for personal growth and cognitive flexibility later in life.
The results of the study are still being analyzed, but Brandon reports a shift in perspective. He describes a greater appreciation for life's simple pleasures and a renewed sense of curiosity about the world. Whether these changes are directly attributable to the psilocybin experience remains to be seen, but Brandon's journey highlights the growing interest and scientific exploration surrounding the potential of psychedelics to unlock new understandings of the human mind. His willingness to participate in his daughter’s research underscores the powerful bond between father and daughter, and the courage to explore uncharted territories, even at 64.
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Technology