After5Chicago - W**d and Psychedelics: The Neuroscience of Altered States

How cannabis and psychedelic substances affect the brain and shift our perception of reality
About this Event

A Conversation on W**d, Psychedelics, and the Brain

Join neuroscientist and psychedelic researcher for W**d and Psychedelics: The Neuroscience of Altered States, an engaging discussion exploring how cannabis and psychedelic substances affect the brain and shift our perception of reality. We’ll unpack the science behind altered states of consciousness, what researchers are learning about compounds like THC and psilocybin, and how these substances interact with the brain’s networks involved in mood, perception, and cognition. This talk serves as a gateway to understanding our minds and ourselves through altered states.

This isn’t a lecture or a debate. It’s a lively, interactive conversation designed to spark curiosity and thoughtful discussion - best enjoyed with a drink in hand. No neuroscience background required; curiosity is all you need.

Come explore big questions about the mind, share perspectives, and meet fellow curious thinkers through your After5 Society.

About the Speaker:

Maya Trivedi (she/her) is a neuroscientist and researcher working on psychedelic clinical trials. She earned her master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin- Madison in one of the first graduate programs dedicated to the scientific study of psychoactive compounds, including cannabis and psychedelics. Her work focuses on the role of altered states of consciousness in advancing our understanding of psychiatric disorders, developing methods for documenting psychedelic phenomenology, and exploring how holistic approaches can be integrated into evidence-based clinical care. She also brings over three years of experience in psychedelic harm reduction and is committed to advancing public education around psychoactive substances through a lens of safety, evidence, and compassion.

Good to know before you come:

• Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email
• Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled
• The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward
• This is a participatory event
• Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate

Agenda

🕑: 06:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Doors Open & Drinks Flow

Info: Arrive early to grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the atmosphere. Early birds get the best seats and a head start on mingling!

🕑: 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Guided Experience / Talk

Info: Dive into an engaging, interactive session with our speaker. Participate, observe, or simply soak it all in - it's your experience to enjoy.

🕑: 08:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Social Time & Connection

Info: Stick around to chat with fellow attendees, swap ideas, or just relax with a drink. Great conversations often happen after the main event!