The Teopixqui Dez Story: Guarding the Divinity Within Us

In this deeply personal episode, Oracle Richard sits down with Teopixqui Dez, spiritual director of the Colorado Psychedelic Church, to explore the story behind the person who helped build the community. From growing up gay in Texas with fiercely supportive parents, to struggles with depression and burnout, to discovering healing through entheogens, Dez shares the life experiences that ultimately shaped the creation of the church. This conversation dives into family, identity, polyamory, psychology, spirituality, and the moment that transformed curiosity into calling. Along the way, Dez reflects on the people who shaped his path — including veteran and early church member Harry Tuff, whose belief in the mission continues to influence the community today. More than just a biography, this episode explores the philosophy behind PACK Life: revering the self, embracing the communal experience, and recognizing the divinity within every person. If you've ever wondered who Dez is, where the church came from, or what fuels its momentum — this is the story. In This Episode Growing up queer in Texas with supportive parents The influence of Jewish and Mexican heritage School struggles, bullying, and formative family moments Life with siblings and discovering hidden family history Living polyamorously and redefining love Studying psychology and working in mental health Why the mental health system burned him out Life as a gig worker and traveling across the country The unexpected path through tea, chocolate, and entrepreneurship Discovering healing through psilocybin mushrooms The moment that sparked the creation of the church The powerful influence of veteran community member Harry Tuff The meaning behind the title Teopixqui Why the church emphasizes community over hierarchy The difference between sacred and recreational entheogen use Preventing ego and power from corrupting spiritual leadership How clergy are recognized and ordained within the church The hopes and fears for the church's future Why momentum — not buildings — is what truly sustains the mission Contact & Learn More Colorado Psychedelic Church Colorado Springs, Colorado Website: coloradopsychedelicchurch.com Subscribe & Share If this episode helped you understand the heart behind the Colorado Psychedelic Church, consider sharing it with someone who might be curious about the community. Subscribe to the podcast to hear sermons, clergy interviews, and stories from the PACK Life community. And as always — The universe provides, and we revel within.