Podcast Summary: Zane and Heath: Unfiltered
Episode 276: Addiction, Hallucinating, & Psychedelics
Release Date: March 24, 2025

In Episode 276 of "Zane and Heath: Unfiltered," hosts Zane, Heath, Matt, and Mariah engage in a heartfelt and candid conversation about addiction, specifically focusing on vaping, the challenges of quitting, and the exploration of psychedelics as potential coping mechanisms. The episode offers an insightful and relatable discussion for listeners navigating similar struggles or seeking to understand the complexities of addiction and recovery.

1. Mariah’s Journey to Quit Vaping

The episode prominently features Mariah’s personal battle with vaping addiction and her determined steps toward becoming vape-free.

• Initial Decision and Commitment
  Mariah announces her decision to quit vaping, marking her first 30 hours without it. She shares the difficulty of breaking a decade-long habit:

  "10 years I've been smoking vape from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to sleep." ([11:07])

• Using Nicotine Alternatives
  To manage cravings, Mariah turns to nicotine gum, describing her initial struggle with its strong flavor but eventual effectiveness:

  "I took a piece of gum, right? And as soon as I took it, I was like, oh, this is really strong... the feeling went away pretty quick." ([12:46])

• Support from Friends and Hosts
  Heath and Matt provide support and share their own experiences with quitting substances, emphasizing the importance of treating the process seriously and avoiding triggers:

  "Treat it like you are, do the whole quitting process of nicotine." ([13:49])

• Strategies for Success
  Mariah discusses practical strategies such as avoiding social settings where vaping is prevalent and using tracking apps to monitor her progress:

  "I'm on day two right now and like it's like I swear it's working." ([15:50])

2. Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health

The conversation shifts to broader mental health topics, including the role of psychedelics and sound baths in mental clarity and relaxation.

• Sound Baths and Psychedelic Experiences
  Matt shares his challenging experience with a 90-minute sound bath in Thailand, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining focus and the calming effects of such practices:

  "I felt like the AC was kind of distracting me." ([46:26])

• Mental Clarity Through Travel
  The hosts reflect on how traveling, such as their recent trip to Thailand, contributes to mental well-being and provides a respite from daily stressors:

  "I can't wait for it to, like, to feel how clear I get in like a month." ([15:49])

3. Social Dynamics and Lifestyle Changes

The episode delves into how quitting vaping and other substances alters social interactions and daily routines.

• Impact on Social Activities
  Heath and Matt discuss how abstaining from vaping and alcohol has changed their enjoyment of social activities, making certain pastimes less fulfilling without substances:

  "Now it's not like fishing with alcohol. It's just fishing." ([30:32])

• Adjusting Social Circles
  The hosts highlight the necessity of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals who encourage sobriety and healthy habits:

  "Surround yourself with people that are gonna encourage you to keep going." ([28:12])

• Developing New Routines
  Mariah and Heath share their efforts to build new, healthier habits to replace old dependencies, such as using vegan gum and avoiding environments that trigger cravings:

  "I'm gonna do this, now is the time. I'll start tomorrow and have a clean day." ([34:35])

4. Reflections and Encouragement

In the concluding segments, the hosts reflect on personal growth, offer encouragement to listeners battling addiction, and share humorous anecdotes about their lives.

• Encouragement for Listeners
  Mariah motivates listeners to embark on their own journeys to quit vaping, emphasizing mutual support and accountability:

  "So start the next day with me and let's see how far we can go." ([34:07])

• Humor and Relatability
  Throughout the episode, the hosts infuse humor into their discussions about serious topics, making the conversation more engaging and relatable for listeners.

• Future Commitments
  Mariah expresses her determination to eliminate other habits like nail-biting, indicating a broader commitment to self-improvement:

  "I'm going to stop biting my nails." ([60:36])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mariah on Her Vaping Habit:

  "10 years I've been smoking vape from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to sleep." ([11:07])

• Mariah on Nicotine Gum:

  "I took a piece of gum, right? And as soon as I took it, I was like, oh, this is really strong... the feeling went away pretty quick." ([12:46])

• Heath on Overcoming Triggers:

  "Surround yourself with people that are gonna encourage you to keep going." ([28:12])

• Mariah’s Encouragement to Listeners:

  "So start the next day with me and let's see how far we can go." ([34:07])

Conclusion

Episode 276 of "Zane and Heath: Unfiltered" offers a sincere and supportive exploration of addiction, centering on the challenges and triumphs of quitting vaping. Through Mariah’s personal narrative and the hosts' collective experiences, listeners gain valuable insights into effective strategies for overcoming addiction, the importance of a supportive social network, and the role of mental health practices in maintaining sobriety. The episode not only sheds light on the struggles associated with addiction but also inspires hope and determination for those seeking to lead healthier, substance-free lives.

Listeners are left feeling encouraged and equipped with practical advice to tackle their own battles with addiction, making this episode a meaningful addition to the series.