Stanislav Grof is not only one of the godfathers of psychedelic psychotherapy—not only one of the founders of the field of transpersonal psychology—not only a renowned researcher into the use of non-ordinary states of consciousness to gain insights into the human psyche—he was also an integral part of the fabric of Esalen Institute during the 1970's and 1980's, helping to shape the culture in Big Sur via his popular workshops and month long programs.

In this interview, we talked about his relationship with Esalen co-founder Michael Murphy and how Stan came to be invited to live and teach at Esalen in the 1970's (where he created the practice of holotropic breath work, in part out of necessity to abide with the law), his abiding affection for Esalen co-founder Dick Price, and his collaborations with Fritjof Capra, Gregory Bateson, Rupert Sheldrake, as well as many more legendary teachers.

Definitely tune in to the man, the myth, the legend—Stan Grof.