David Weinstein - A Zen Teacher’s Unconventional Path into Buddhism and Psychedelics

In this episode, I speak with David Weinstein—founding teacher of the Rockridge Meditation Community, teacher at the Pacific Zen Institute, and psychotherapist. David shares his unexpected entry into Buddhism and psychedelics, beginning with childhood mind experiments, LSD in college, and a chance encounter in a German bar that led him across Nepal, Afghanistan, Japan, and beyond.He describes how the teachings of Lama Zopa and Lama Yeshe on death and suffering drew him deeper into Tibetan practice, extended retreats, and later into Zen koans, shikantaza, and Morita psychotherapy. David sees psychedelics not as permanent tools, but as bridges—“for crossing, not carrying”—that can open insight when paired with meditation and integration.We explore how psychedelic states, trauma, and awakening experiences can dissolve identity, making community and integration essential. David emphasizes gentleness in practice, belonging, and keeping the mind open with his guiding mantra: “make your mind a question mark.”Special Thanks to: Konstantin Alexander (KAStudiosHQ.com) - Podcast Production Ryan Bell (@IG bellphoto11.com) - Logo DesignDavid Starfire (davidstarfire.com) - Music