Daytryp Health

From Stigma to Stamina: The Emergence of Psychedelics in Athletic Performance

Table of Contents

Introduction

What if the secret to unlocking peak athletic performance lies in the realm of psychedelics? In recent years, a growing number of athletes have been exploring the surprising symbiosis between these mind-altering substances and their impact on stamina, focus, and mental well-being. From world-renowned surfers to legendary baseball players, the stories of these individuals highlight the potential benefits of psychedelics when used responsibly and in the right doses.

In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating relationship between psychedelics and athletic performance, exploring the experiences of notable athletes and examining the emerging research on this unconventional approach to mental and physical enhancement. As we break down the stigma surrounding psychedelics, join us in discovering the untapped potential they hold for revolutionizing the world of sports and beyond.

The Surprising Symbiosis of Psychedelics and Athletic Performance

Symbiosis of Psychedelics and Athletic Performance

Eddie Padilla, world-renowned surfer and member of Brother of Love, sheds light on the practical aspect of a culture rooted in psychedelics and marijuana, rather than alcohol. According to Padilla, the LSD experience encouraged a healthier lifestyle, which aligned with the existing habits of surfers. Surfing required individuals to stay sober and attuned to nature, ensuring they were ready for the waves the next day.

This rationale points to one reason why psychedelics have long been a part of extreme sports culture. Psychedelic experiences in nature are not only more inspiring but also more practical. LSD can last for up to 14 hours, a duration that might be too long for some, especially if taken at night. However, if taken in the morning, with the vastness of oceans, deserts, or mountains to explore, the LSD trip becomes more manageable as it fades with the daylight.

The other reason lies in the psycholytic effects of psychedelics at the right dosages. Many athletes who use LSD at these levels believe it enhances their stamina and abilities.

The powerful combination of heightened spiritual appreciation for the natural environment, increased stamina, and improved balance make psychedelics invaluable among mountain athletes.

The Dock Ellis and Riley Cote Experiences

Riley cote experience

Anecdotal evidence suggests that microdosing psychedelics can indeed enhance athletic performance. A famous case is that of Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Dock Ellis, who, in 1970, threw a no-hitter while under the influence of LSD. James Oroc’s essay also credits microdosing LSD for numerous accomplishments in extreme sports, such as heli-skiing off Alaskan peaks, motorbike racing, surfing, and mountain climbing above 8,000 meters in the Himalayas. Before being banned, ibogaine was reportedly used as a stimulant by athletes from the 1930s to the 1960s. So, should microdosing psychedelics be classified as performance-enhancing drugs?

Riley Cote, a former professional ice hockey player, suggests that psychedelics indirectly improve athletic performance by promoting mindfulness and enhancing the overall quality of life. According to Cote, microdosing might not directly affect factors like speed, but it does influence focus, concentration, and training, which ultimately contribute to improved performance.

Cote highlights the mental barriers that often obstruct athletic success, such as overthinking, stress, and performance anxiety. He argues that, while athletes invest significant time and resources into physical conditioning, they often neglect mental training. Psychedelics may offer a means to train the mind, not just for athletes, but also for musicians, creators, and everyday people seeking self-improvement.

For years, rumors have circulated about a clandestine network of athletes, primarily ex-athletes, using psilocybin found in magic mushrooms to treat traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, and depression. Many, like Riley Cote, consider psychedelics a miracle cure, capable of breaking the cycle of pharmaceutical painkillers and substance abuse. These individuals often gather in small groups to consume mushrooms privately or travel to countries where psychedelic mushrooms are legal.

Psilocybin use is gaining momentum in the United States, with several cities decriminalizing possession and states like Oregon and Colorado legalizing it under supervised use. Researchers predict FDA approval of a psychedelic treatment within the next five years.

The study of psychedelics as medical treatments was revived in the 90s, with early findings suggesting potential benefits for patients with anxiety, depression, and addiction. Other experts indicated that psilocybin might be capable of reshaping brain anatomy and restoring neuropathways, potentially healing traumatic brain injuries. For Cote, who was diagnosed with multiple concussions during his hockey career, the experience was transformative.

Cote now recruits clients for Wake, a company that hosts immersive psilocybin retreats outside the U.S. Tyler Macleod, a Wake co-founder, describes how these events help attendees regain control of their lives. Cote questions why they should wait for further studies when existing research and anecdotes already indicate positive results.

Cote also notes that many athletes use psilocybin microdosing as a performance tool on game days. He compares the practice to yoga, as both methods help individuals achieve a flow state by moving from the thinking mind to the feeling body. Cote is optimistic about the role of psychedelics in athletes’ lives, observing a significant increase in consciousness surrounding these substances and their therapeutic effects in recent years.

The Controlled Substances Act and the Push for Psilocybin Research

In 1970, President Richard Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act into law, categorizing magic mushrooms as Schedule 1 substances, alongside heroin and marijuana. This classification implied that the government believed they had no medical benefit and a high potential for abuse. These politically motivated decisions continue to impact research on psychedelic treatments today.

Recent studies, though small in scope, have demonstrated impressive effects. Prescription drugs approved for conditions like anxiety or depression are effective for only 40% to 60% of patients. In early trials, psychedelics have achieved efficacy rates of more than 70%. Additionally, one or two treatments of psilocybin can have lasting effects for six months, a year, or even longer, with minimal risk of addiction or overdose. As a result, many researchers view psilocybin as a potential breakthrough treatment with significant benefits and few risks.

Scott Aaronson, the director of clinical research programs at Sheppard Pratt, a nonprofit psychiatric hospital, has dedicated 40 years to studying challenging mood disorders. He recognizes the potential and excitement surrounding psychedelic research. Yet, even if psilocybin and other psychedelics were to merely function as a placebo, numerous athletes still report authentic relief from anxiety, depression, and other traumas associated with their sports careers.

With a potential multibillion-dollar global market, there is a significant financial incentive for companies in the psychedelic treatment space. Wake is just one of many for-profit startups backed by private investment money staking a claim in this emerging field. These companies hope to eventually open treatment centers or sell psychedelic drugs in the U.S. and Canada.

Clinical research on psilocybin must also address the mushroom’s image as a party drug, often associated with hippies sharing it at concerts. To change this narrative, companies like Wake are emphasizing the science behind psychedelic treatments. They argue that this isn’t just thrill-seeking, but legitimate medicine addressing real psychiatric conditions. This approach parallels the argument made by proponents of marijuana legalization, who initially pushed for its medicinal use before expanding to recreational consumption.

Psychedelics appear to help individuals examine old traumas without falling into destructive loops, fostering a sense of connection with others. While depression and anxiety are not simply erased, people may gain a new perspective on their problems and start to feel capable of overcoming them, perhaps for the first time.

More Athletes Embracing Psychedelics

Mike Tyson

As the stigma around psychedelic therapies lifts and research continues to highlight their benefits, more and more professional athletes are sharing their experiences with these substances. Here are some notable athletes who have spoken about their relationship with psychedelics:

  1. Mike Tyson – The former heavyweight boxing champion attributes his personal transformation to experiences with cannabis, magic mushrooms, and 5-MeO-DMT. Today, Tyson is an advocate for psychedelic therapies and an investor in efforts to use them for treating traumatic brain injuries.
  2. Aaron Rodgers – The four-time NFL MVP credits ayahuasca for his two most recent MVPs. Rodgers believes that the experience helped him improve his mental health, allowing him to become a better leader and teammate.
  3. Dock Ellis – In 1970, the Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher achieved the rare feat of a no-hitter while tripping on LSD. He later described the experience as euphoric and said it helped him to focus on the catcher’s glove.
  4. Kerry Rhodes – The former NFL safety struggled with headaches, pain, and memory issues related to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Rhodes found relief and personal transformation through an ayahuasca ceremony in Costa Rica, which he discussed on HBO’s Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel.
  5. Kelly Slater – The 11-time world surfing champion has long advocated for sobriety but also supports the legalization of all drugs. Slater visited an ayahuasca retreat in Costa Rica in 2017, describing the experience as profound and life-changing. He later joined the retreat’s board of directors.

As the conversation around psychedelics continues to evolve, it is likely that more athletes will come forward with their own experiences, further destigmatizing their use and promoting their potential benefits.

Conclusion

The growing acceptance and exploration of psychedelics, particularly psilocybin mushrooms, within the athletic community is a testament to the shifting perspectives around these substances. The potential benefits of psychedelics for mental health and athletic performance are becoming increasingly clear. Professional athletes like Mike Tyson, Aaron Rodgers, Dock Ellis, Kerry Rhodes, and Kelly Slater have already shared their transformative experiences, helping to break down the stigma surrounding these substances.

As we continue to learn more about the effects and applications of psychedelics, it is crucial to promote responsible use and ensure that these substances are utilized safely and effectively. By doing so, we can continue to uncover the hidden synergy between psychedelics and athletic performance, empowering athletes to reach new heights in their personal lives and careers.

With further research and clinical trials, the therapeutic potential of psychedelics may soon gain widespread acceptance, opening up new avenues for athletes to tackle mental health issues, enhance focus, and improve their overall performance. As the conversation around these substances continues to evolve, we can expect more athletes to share their experiences and contribute to the growing body of knowledge surrounding the power of psychedelic therapies.

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Yvé Dizes

Tryp Guide

Grounded in decades of extensive training with shamans, yogis, and spiritual teachers, Yvé
leverages her innate ability to channel the quantum field to provide profound insight and
transformation for her clientele. Her work is deeply influenced by her daily meditation practice, esoteric research, quantum mechanics, and J.R.R. Tolkien… only partially a joke!

Yvé’s advocacy for Divine Neutrality inspired her exploration into the transformative potential of Ketamine therapy. She delights in her role as a Tryp Guide, where she creates and holds sacred space, promoting transformation through this unique modality. Graced with an amazing partner and soul community, Yvé is humbled and honored to share her life’s purpose with you.

Will Burkhart

Tryp Guide

Will has spent his life seeking truth and exploring the limits of what is possible. This has led him to many extreme experiences—Marine Corps combat veteran, US Army Airborne and Ranger schools, wilderness adventure racing, high altitude mountaineering, ultra-endurance events, holistic healing modalities, psychedelics, and coaching. 

Will is a Co-Active Certified Professional Coach and a High Flow Performance Coach. He specializes in integrative psychedelic coaching and facilitating psychedelic experiences. He is relentless in his passion to explore life’s magnificence.  It’s an ongoing journey and one he would be honored to share with you as a Tryp Guide.

Steve Judson

Tryp Guide

While everyone has a different path to happiness, the majority of people encounter comparable experiences along the way. Examples include honesty, kindness, compassion, generosity, concern for oneself, others, and nature; respect for life; a desire to make a good difference; and many more.

Steve’s involvement, acceptance, and advocacy of the use of entheogenic substances as sacraments for direct spiritual experiences is what has inspired him to work hard to create peace and harmony in both his own life and the lives of those around him.

Steve has made a commitment to rejuvenating his own spiritual life using humanist resources and a humanist perspective. With an emphasis on the mysticism of the unitive experience and the practical use of entheogenic rituals for learning about and developing human consciousness to create a direct connection to the Divine within, Steve has been studying and using a variety of transformational tools. Each has acted as a catalyst in his own consciousness, resulting in profoundly life-altering experiences that have gradually revealed Steve’s true self and pointed him in the direction of his true purpose in life.

Steve’s desire to be of service to others by coaching, mentoring, and guiding them through a shamanic methodology and the practical use of entheogenic rituals is the driving force behind his life’s work, passions, and interests.

Steve loves sharing the knowledge he has gained using many entheogenic sacraments and transformational tools that can help spark a shift in consciousness and result in a profound realization of one’s true nature. Steve also firmly endorses both the idea of cognitive liberty (the right to direct one’s own consciousness) and the safe and appropriate use of entheogenic sacraments for a direct spiritual experience.

Steve has put a lot of effort into learning about and developing the best techniques as a practitioner and guide to provide the right guidance, proper preparation, safe navigation, and holistic integration into the sacred work he performs, and he remains dedicated to his work through practice, mentorship, and study.

 

There is a prayer in Sanskrit, one of the oldest recorded languages dating back 7000–8000 years, that says, “Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu.” This means: “May all beings everywhere be happy and free. May the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and that freedom for all.” This is a truth Steve lives by every day.

Megan Schneider

Tryp Guide

Megan is passionate about holding a sacred space for others to explore healing connections between the mind, body, breath, and spirit. As a plant energy practitioner, essential oils specialist, and yoga teacher, she wholeheartedly believes in an individualized approach to health and the power of curating personalized integrative self-healing practices of your own. Megan creates space for others to explore the therapeutic benefits of psychedelic medicines, both from a physiological and metaphysical standpoint, while inspiring others remembrance of their divine beauty, purpose, and gifts. Through the art of intention, peaceful presence, and loving awareness she hopes to welcome you more deeply into accessing your innate power to heal from within.

Joel Newton

Tryp Guide

From a young age, Joel sought happiness in competitive sports, business, and relationships. Each accomplishment came with a fleeting sense of fulfillment causing another repeat of the same cycle. That same mysterious desire for acceptance led Joel to seek information in new and unfamiliar territories. Joel has found comfort in his study of past and current visionaries, such as Carl Jung, Dr. Richard Schwartz, Deepak Chopra, and Gabor Matè. Learning that love of oneself is the true path to peace. Joel honors medicines and substance along with meditation and self-care for the aid of self-discovery. He has found that nothing is more enjoyable than supporting others in their constant journey of growth. Healing himself and others has become his greatest gift and passion.

Nick Ghiz

Tryp Guide

Nick’s upbringing instilled in him the significance of giving, helping, and inspiring others. He understands that these invaluable gifts have the power to shift paradigms within one’s life. For him, being involved in someone’s transformative journey is a privilege. Deep within each of us lies the ability to discover peace and lasting happiness. Sometimes we just need someone to guide us along the way. Nick carries this responsibility close to his heart, knowing firsthand the vulnerability we experience when seeking help. He hopes to be a bright light throughout this magnificent adventure you are about to embark upon.

Stephanie Bernau

RN

Tryp Guide

Stephanie is a registered nurse helping to guide individuals in their journey towards wellness. Raised in Pima, Arizona and graduating from her hometown college, she has over 9 years of experience in pediatric emergency and trauma medicine. With her passion for health and involvement in the fitness community, Stephanie became a fitness coach in 2017. Dedicated to her own personal project of “unbecoming” and healing, Stephanie went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Arizona State University in 2022, focusing on the evidence-based approach to integrating the mind, body, and spirit for optimal health and wellbeing. Stephanie is an advocate for integrative health and wellness, while honoring your journey by providing a compassionate and supportive space for healing. In her spare time you can find her exploring the sky with husband Jamie and their dog Coco.

Hanna Caldwell

RN

Tryp Guide

Hanna is from a small town here in Arizona. From the time she was a child, community has been a huge part of her life. She believe in total wellness and healing through mind, body and soul. This been a theme in her life, especially as an ER nurse and a nurse here at the clinic. Hanna loves helping others and blending western and holistic medicine to help others live to their greatest potential.

Ann Berardi

RN

Tryp Guide

Ann is a registered nurse with a passion for helping others find balance in wellness and health. After graduating with her BSN from Cleveland State University in 2013, she worked briefly as a progressive care cardiac nurse. During that time, she was trained in Usui Reiki and completed her master/teacher level training in 2014. She then devoted herself as a hospice nurse, supporting and coaching many individuals and their loved ones through the dying process. After several years, Ann transitioned her skills and desires to focus on helping individuals achieve optimal wellness with holistic therapies. She opened a small mobile IV infusion business in 2019, offering in-home infusion therapy focusing on prevention and health maintenance. She also became certified in medical aesthetics.
 
Her constant ambition as a nurse is in service and helping others activate their own healing for optimal wellness while living from their highest self. Her goal is to provide a calm and peaceful environment where individuals can relax into healing.
  
She grew up in Latrobe, Pennsylvania and has lived in sunny Arizona since 2015. She finds relaxation in the outdoors, hiking, kayaking, star-gazing and flying airplanes.

Alisia Malta

RN

Tryp Guide

Alisia graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2011. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings during her 12 years as a RN. Her fascination with the human brain led her to become a specialist in Deep Brain Stimulation therapy. Alisia is also an artist and has been selling her work professionally for the last 10 years. Through several difficult life events, she experienced firsthand the healing power of creative expression. Her passions reside in health, psychology, art, and human connection. She is ecstatic to be part of the Daytryp team, and grateful for the opportunity to assist with the intentional use of psychedelic medicines for healing.

Nellie Bowers, RN

RN

Tryp Guide

Nellietha (Nellie) has been in healthcare for 18 years. She graduated with a Bachelors in Science from Chamberlain College of Nursing in 2018. She grew up in a family that prioritized alternative medicine and witnessed firsthand the profound impact natural remedies have on physical and mental health. As someone who has personally experienced the transformative effects of psychedelics, she is passionate about helping others find relief and healing through these alternative therapies. In her free time, she enjoys her animals, gardening, and being out in nature.

Jeff Kaplan

Jeff was born and raised 25 miles north of Chicago, IL. He graduated from The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in 1999 with a B.S. in Business Communications. Jeff has worked for several successful start-ups in the consumer and daily deal space, excelling in business development and customer service. He is a certified life-coach specializing in working with adolescents. As Daytryp’s Intake Coordinator, he takes great pride in being the first voice our clients hear when they call into the facility. He enjoys working on his spiritual self, doing voiceover work, spending time with his girlfriend in San Diego and taking his bulldog Walter on road trips across the country.

Dave Romanelli

Chief Vibe Officer

David Romanelli fuses ancient wellness practices with modern passions that give people accessible tools to overcome stress, focus their mind, and improve their relationships at work and home. David’s third book, Life Lessons from the Oldest and Wisest, is a reminder that countless professionals, parents, and partners have walked the earth before us. The book was inspired by his series of national events called DRINKS WITH YOUR ELDERS, that created a space for isolated elders to reengage with their community and share their life experiences with younger generations. His previous book, Happy is the New Healthy, was inspired by David’s friendship with a 111 year-old New Yorker. The book reached #1 on multiple Amazon and Apple Bestseller Lists.

Dave partnered up with Daytryp Health to create TRIPT, which is a psychedelic integration APP which is offered to all Daytryp clients.

Most recently, David was a featured voice on a new app from Calm, which brings peace of mind and healing techniques to the 1 of every 3 Americans touched by cancer. His daughter Cooper (aka SuperCooper) put leukemia in the rear view mirror and is David’s inspiration everyday to live with strength, passion, and joie de vivre. Throughout Cooper’s treatment, David found the power of psychedelic therapy as a profound way to heal the trauma and constant worry and reset to a positive path forward as parent, partner, and professional.. His 365 day platform, MEDITATE ON, compels his listeners to gain perspective on their journey and take time each day for reflection, quiet, and meditation. David has been featured in The New York Times, Food & Wine, Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek. You can learn more at www.DavidRomanelli.com

Furthermore, Dave is in charge of Daytryp Retreats, which brings people from all over the world to Phoenix, AZ for 3-4 day retreats to experience life-changing psychedelic journeys.

Dr. Joe Tafur

MD

Medical Advisor / Tryp Guide

Dr. Joe Tafur has dedicated his career to exploring complementary and alternative approaches to health management, particularly Amazonian plant medicines. He completed a Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship at UCSD Department of Psychiatry, and worked as a Family Physician in the US before exploring indigenous medicine in South America (SA). He helped found Nihue Rao Centro Espiritual, a traditional healing center in the Peruvian Upper Amazon, and underwent apprenticeship in Traditional Amazonian Plant Medicine and Shipibo curanderismo. In 2017, Dr. Joe founded Modern Spirit, a 501c3 nonprofit focused on demonstrating the value of spiritual healing in modern healthcare. In 2019, he and his colleagues opened the Ocotillo Center for Integrative Medicine. Dr. Tafur is also a leader in his spiritual community and leads plant medicine journeys across the continent. Joe is also a best selling author with his book, The Fellowship of the River.

Rebekah Bohucki

RN

Tryp Guide

Rebekah graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, then went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University. After working as an RN in the hospital setting for 13 years, Rebekah stepped away to pursue a career more oriented towards holistic healing and treating the root cause of disease. Rebekah is passionate about the powerful healing abilities of psychedelics and plant medicine and believes that with the right tools and guidance, our mind and body have the innate wisdom and ability to heal from the inside out. Rebekah is also on her path to becoming a Priestess, which includes training in the sacred art of holding energetic space. On her free time, she loves being a mom to her two beautiful children, traveling the world, hiking, yoga, and reading.

Kathryn Kiser

Tryp Guide
Kathryn, also known as Kat, has a deep love for nature and animals and a passion for the great outdoors. She cherishes her children and her dog, and enjoys being silly and surrounded by loved ones. She loves laughing and feeling free. Kathryn prioritizes taking care of both her heart and loves the activities that she chooses daily. Her personal journey towards self-love has been a long and challenging one, with many ups and downs. She spent a lot of her life living in fear and suffering with a closed heart. Choosing to heal through her traumas and open her heart have been the best adventures yet. Kat chooses to be a student of life and will continue on this path. As a participant in your healing journey, she holds space for you to feel into your own love and to witness your growth and healing. From her heart to yours, she looks forward to supporting you on your journey.

Lauren Krison

Lead Tryp Guide & Operations Manager

Lauren is a Phoenix native. She graduated from Arizona State University Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in 2007. After spending over a decade in corporate and start-up marketing, the burnout became unbearable, and she knew it was time to pivot to her true passion – wellness. From diet and lifestyle changes to subconscious reprogramming and psychedelic medicine, Lauren’s own wellness journey led her to discover healing modalities that transformed her life in every way imaginable. Her passion led her to the Institute for Integrative Nutrition where she graduated in 2021 as a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. As a Tryp Guide, Lauren is honored to hold space for others as they embark on a healing journey of their own.

Ajona Olsen

MSN, APRN, ANP-C, Medical Director

Tryp Guide

Ajona Olsen started her career in healthcare in 2001 as an RN in a hospital. She graduated from Arizona State University as a nurse practitioner in 2006, and worked in corporate medicine for fifteen years. In 2021, she began researching psychedelics as a powerful tool in healing and trained in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Ajona opened her own practice at the beginning of 2022 to serve those on a journey toward healing and, in turn, has found happiness in the healing for herself and her loved ones. Ajona met Chris Cohn, founder of Daytryp Health, in June of 2022. She is very excited to act as Medical Director and partner with the incredible team at Daytryp. Outside of work, Ajona is an avid yoga enthusiast and enjoys spending time with her family.

Quinn Snyder

MD, FACEP

Chief Medical Officer

Quinn graduated from the University of Arizona College of Medicine in 2007. In 2010, after studying under Andrew Weil and traveling to India to study plant-based medicines, he completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at Drexel University. Quinn has continuously practiced EM at some of the top Departments in and around Phoenix. He possesses leadership experience in Data Analytics, Quality, Operations, and Business Development. During the pandemic, he was the manager of the largest Emergency Department in Arizona, and his experience was the subject of interviews on CNN, PBS Newshour, BBC World News, NPR, The Washington Post, and The Guardian. He has used Ketamine in his clinical practice and is committed to the emerging field of psychedelic medicines for healing.

Chris Cohn

MAC


Founder & CEO

Chris was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ. He attended Brophy College Preparatory, then graduated from the University of Arizona. Chris later attained his Masters Degree, Magna Cum Laude, in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University. In 2008, Chris founded Scottsdale Recovery Center and Arizona Addiction Recovery Center, two of the most well-known drug and alcohol rehabs in the state. In 2019, after exiting the rehab space, Chris took a deep dive into the incredible world of psychedelic and plant medicines for his own healing journey. Daytryp Health was birthed from Chris’s ongoing desire and passion to help people heal, recover, and thrive with the intentional and careful use of psychedelic medicines.

Rudy Montijo

MS, LASAC, Consultant/Integration Therapist
Tryp Guide

Rudy Montijo lends his expertise in operations and business development consulting for Daytryp. He received his undergraduate from the University of Arizona, a master’s degree in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy training from Polaris Insight. Rudy worked under Daytryp’s founder and CEO, Chris Cohn, while operating and expanding Scottsdale Recovery Center from 2013-2014. He currently has an award-winning career in medical sales. He is a former D1 athlete, having played football at the University of Arizona. Rudy is a clinical therapist who is trained in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, actively races on the Ironman triathlon circuit, and is a certified yoga instructor. After helping others, Rudy’s greatest love is his two children, River and Savanna.

Esther Mathers

VP Operations

 

Esther is a seasoned designer with over 25 years of experience in the creation, management and development of calming spaces. A passionate and driving force behind any project, she thrives when curating environments that foster relaxation and well-being for both the mind and body. In addition, Esther has a talent for providing holistic solutions with innovative ideas to persistent challenges. She was honored to be commissioned by the Founder and CEO of Daytryp Health, Chris Cohn, to design the interior of their flagship location. The opportunity has been life-changing, transformative, and inspiring on many different levels. Esther currently lives in Mesa, AZ with her two children and enjoys outdoor activities, particularly those involving water.