87 | Sandy Samberg | what would I regret?

Show Notes, Links & Resources:Psychedelic Revival Learning Series – videos, resourcesPress release for the training initiativeReconsider – non-profit in the psychedelic space that hosts the gatherings I mentionedVideos from the gatherings & the Stories of TransformationGo Wish cardsSOUL RYEDERS – the cancer organization I startedHeroic Hearts ProjectFireside ProjectBeckley Foundation, Chacruna, Reason For HopeSandy's Bio:Upon graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a BSN & MSN, I worked as a nurse practitioner in a group practice in NYC. After a few years, I decided to pursue an idea I had to develop a starter kit for new parents. The kit became a business, which was ultimately acquired by a health care company. Unfortunately, 9/11 had detrimental effects on our business and our parent company closed our division. I learned a tremendous amount through the experience and have subsequently applied many of the skills I acquired in a myriad of ways.<br /><br />Following a move to Rye, NY with my husband and two young sons in 2002, I began utilizing my nursing, business and entrepreneurial skills to help a variety of local charities as a volunteer.<br /><br />After participating in the 39-mile Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in 2006 in memory of one friend, in honor of another, and a year after having open heart surgery, I started a team for the 2007 Avon Walk. Little did I know that this would be the beginning of what SOUL RYEDERS is today - a 501(c)3 non-profit organization which supports anyone in the NY Tri-State area impacted by any type of cancer. In addition to providing personalized resources and offering several innovative programs, SOUL RYEDERS also awards grants to other local cancer-related organizations. <br /><br />In December 2020, I made the challenging decision to transition from my role as Executive Director of SOUL RYEDERS in an effort to free up time to pursue other interests. I continue to be a part of SOUL RYEDERS as an engaged Board member, strategic advisor, Giving Circle member, Grant Committee Co-Chair, and Young Survivor Group Coordinator.<br /><br />Helping individuals facing terminal illness through SOUL RYEDERS inspired me to expand my knowledge about end-of-life care. Intrigued by the promising research about the safety and efficacy of psychedelic-assisted therapy for those impacted by life-threatening conditions, I began a personal learning journey to educate myself about the larger psychedelic ecosystem. In light of the current mental health crisis, and having had a keen interest in mental wellness since childhood, I am now focusing my time and energy towards helping move the needle forward in this field. <br /><br />In addition to SOUL RYEDERS, I am involved with several other non-profit organizations. While my true passion is helping those in need, I love spending time with family & friends, exercising, experiencing different cultures, meeting new people, listening to interesting podcasts, and curling up by the fireplace with a good book & a glass of wine!