Why Paul founded CSP as a church

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Paul Ryder, founding minister of the Congregation for Sacred Practices, about an alternative framework for psychedelic work rooted in spirituality, ritual, and community rather than medicine alone.

Paul Ryder shares how his own experiences led him to treat psychedelics as sacraments, and why he believes the medical model, while valuable, represents only an early phase of the psychedelic renaissance. Together, they explore how CSP operates as both a church and a seminary, training licensed ministers to hold ceremonies ethically, safely, and within a religious legal framework.

The conversation also examines the role of community in long-term transformation, the distinction between therapists and ministers, and why practices like breathwork, meditation, and integration circles are central to spiritual development. Throughout, Ryder offers a grounded perspective on how psychedelics can support not just healing, but maturation, responsibility, and a deeper sense of purpose.

You can find the full episode summary and related resources here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-342/?ref=278

Episode Links

• The Congregation for Sacred Practices

Episode Sponsors:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.
• The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute.
• Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.