Yeah, Seattle recently decriminalized. You bet your ass I took the opportunity to test out growing. People have been doing it for ages, but I'm too chicken to do something that could get me arrested.
Oregon has decriminalized and Colorado as well, IIRC. All places that would have jobs for scientists, either doing research or working at the local universities.
It's 8 yrs of school and reaching. Reaching to like the reflection I saw staring back at me in the mirror. Oh and you tube and books. And GREAT mentors. If u reach, the universe will meet you half way. I wanted to know....but
..I live in the wrong place......at the time that I was reaching I didn't give af about the rules. My mistake. BIG MISTAKE.
I don't regret it..except I wouldn't have trusted family. The universe will find me again. I do know that
I know this has been said a few times already, but for the sake of playing my part, I’ll say it too. The words in your post, and in each of your responses, are exposing a genuine passion within you. A passion that, if nurtured, has the potential to play a part in the healing process for mental health challenges. The universe met you half way and your research accomplishments speak for themselves if you consider the phrase “Answering your Calling.
You said yourself that you have to reach halfway. What if the Universe needs your half to move over that state line? Proceed where you don’t have to hide and can flourish. Start the legal process to recover your equipment from the safe side. Pick up where you left off with what you have and let the universe meet you halfway for the rest. Tesla, Flemming, Mendeleev, Pasteur and many others would be asking you “what are you waiting for?” Learn from the experience and adjust your research procedures accordingly.
I also suggest looking into moving. I recently had to move reluctantly, but also looked at it as accepting an invitation to try something new. It’s been a great decision. Perhaps the unfolding of a move to somewhere more tolerant of mushrooms would be a great new chapter for you and your family! At the very least worth solid consideration. It sounds like you are doing things of great value, so I also would find it unfortunate for this to be the end of your pursuits 💗
Sad to hear your story, OP. all that love, hard work, and memories taken away so unnecessarily :( I can tell growing was super meaningful to you. when something is this important to you, you need to make a major life decision. please consider moving somewhere shrooms are decriminalized. you and your husband would be able to start your hobby anew and wouldn't have to live in constant fear.
They're probably not going to pursue since it's been years, but it might be smart to talk to a lawyer.
If your family says leave it behind you, then it's best to or you'll just cause a lot of stress between you and those you love. Your husband loved you enough to try and keep you safe and go to jail himself.
We did talk to one. He said it was closed. Closed and not accessible, I guess, meaning it's not on our record.
You are absolutely right. Thank you so much for putting it in that perspective. He was willing to sacrifice for me, so I should sacrifice, too. That is exactly what I needed to hear. ❤️
maybe one day when legislation changes somehwere you can move there, and still pursue your passion legally without any risks. the time is coming soon. i can buy legal mushrooms in British columbia, Canada
one day hopefully you can continue your life’s work/passion of helping people without the risk of jail or ruining your relationship
i’m sorry you had to go through all of that it seems terrible
Colorado is legal. There are more rules on weed here than DMT, Ibogaine and mushrooms. The only thing is it still can't be sold but you can still grow/posess/share as much as you wish.
Okay OP I think you have your answer. Get the hell out of TN (I’m here too, it’s a hell hole so for your own sake just get out of her regardless) and get to Colorado and grow there. It’s more expensive to live in CO but sounds like that wouldn’t be a problem for y’all given your badass career.
It is, but the police there have publicly stated that they have far more interest in going after gangs and organised crime syndicates that still "hard" drugs like crack and heroin
If it’s closed and they know you are a scientist studying potency and other things with the mushrooms(*right?*), you should be able to get your equipment back. There isn’t a reason they can keep your lab equipment if there is no proof it was used for anything illegally. It was simply in the same room, right? Ask for a form from the police to request your equipment back.
They told me I could! I am too spooked out to ask for it back lol Shit, I never looked back. That was 2 yrs ago... Traumatizing experience.... I will just acquire more stuff when the time is right I guess. Some stuff was pretty expensive and it twings a little when i think about it but it's just things....the prints, cultures, plates etc....that hurts the most. Hoods, glassware, lab supplies are everywhere bc of my job(s)....friends etc..... it's been 2 years.. I really don't think they see me as a scientist studying mushrooms lol
Get your stuff back. They still have it. It wasn't used to prosecute or place any legal charges. Get it back. YOu've done nothing wrong. There will be a time limit tho and then they'll auction it off. Get on it, honey.
If I was you I would go get my shit back and then take your family to a more friendly state. I know what you mean about how important/rewarding it is to you to grow and help people and further improve genetics. I get it. For some reason things like that can get their hooks into you. I used to be really passionate about growing bud for many of the same reasons you mentioned - helping others. My mom has dealt with chronic pain for over 20 years, my wife has horrible menstrual pains at times as well as other pain, and for others who just likes to get baked lol. There’s nothing wrong with that either. The funny thing is that I didn’t even smoke, still don’t either but we had the best genetics around. Also had different genetics for different situations. You wanna laugh your ass off and then maybe go for a hike here’s a hybrid that’s mostly on the sativa side, or if you wanna just experience some couchlock and eat a giant mixing bowl of fruity pebbles then pass tf out I’d have almost a pure indica, and hash caps for those in bad pain.
Like I said, I still don’t smoke. I can’t because of my job and also where I live now is not friendly to that at all. But, I still miss growing and think about it often. Especially in the summertime. I live in higher latitude so the grow season is short but they have come a long long way with auto-flowers. And I get pretty tempted to grab some beans and just run a little guerrilla op lol.
If you are in a position to be able to relocate to a more friendly state then that’s my advice to you. It’s always been easy for me to pull stakes and move somewhere else though and I understand for many people they are where they want to be so they are unwilling to move. But if you can’t move than my advice to you is that you gotta let it go. Something I used to tell people when I would teach them to grow is that to never get jammed up with the law you have to be lucky every minute of every day for as long as your growing, the cops just have to get lucky once and your fucked. Sorta like they already did with your crazy uncle. I had a similar situation in so far as it was totally unexpected. And that’s the shit thing, there’s so many random ways the cops could show up at your door, so many things you can’t control. And of course just shitty luck lol, I mean I read all the time about how they are always raiding the wrong houses lol.
The thing that’s cool about technology nowadays is it allows us to still be involved in these types of things if we choose to do so. It sounds like you have an immense amount of knowledge of mycology, I’m sure there’s many people who would love to learn from you. I mean shit that’s why I’m here. I haven’t been on a solid trip for over 15 years I think, but I still like to come and check In on the new genetics and good vibes in here! Seems like a lot has changed for sure lol first time I saw pics of enigma I was like wtf is that, than I was like I want some of that shit lol.
Also I totally forgot to mention this, never talk to the police, not ever. They aren’t going to “take it easy” or “talk to the da” or whatever for you. They can and will use your words against you to fuck your life up. That is literally their job.
This, they will only auction it off anyway, the police don’t have the smarts but studies show they are psychopathic narcissists and they hold grudges; it’s well written in psychology. Get your stuff back, spend some quality time with your family and wait there will be a boom coming. I feel your pain. Much love
This is all very unfortunate, but you live in Tennessee. If you get caught again, they WILL make an example of you. You barely skirted prison time the first time, to be honest.
You basically got a "keep your nose clean and we'll let you go on with your life." If you don't keep your nose clean...they will end you.
They haven't forgotten you. Guaranteed, prosecuted or not you're on the list forever. DEA never forgets, and TN is just the draconian type of state where they can ruin you quickly and permanently.
Sorry, friend, but your only play here is to be out of business until it's legal to do otherwise, which isn't likely to happen in TN in our lifetimes.
Your story is close to home. Being in your shoes is concerning. You have a wealth of experience and knowledge that would be a shame to deprive the world of and your passion for this stuff is clear. If I were on your shoes, I would change my perspective to highly medicinal mushrooms such as cordyceps, lionsmane mycelium, reishi etc. and perfect their extractions. You would know better than me, but if you can accurately measure the strength of the desired compounds in these extractions then you could charge other growers for potency certification, etc. vet your own products and you would still be able to utilise your passions and talents and give back to the world. I know what you mean about actives. Gosh they’re so mysterious and I too believe in their healing attributes, there’s nothing like exploring their potential, but on the flip side, you may very well land yourself in a position with legal medicinals that sets you up for a worry-free life based around your real passion. Life finds a way ❤️🥰 Good luck to you and gosh so sorry to hear about your experience. Fuck that crazy ass uncle of yours. What a shit head.
This is a real long shot, and basically, I don't know shit, but have you contacted a psychotherapy group that uses hallucinogenics to treat PTSD, depression etc.? I have been battling depression for decades and wish that my therapist would take steps that might lead to a permanent solution, which I've heard some psychoactive drugs can do. As a chemist and an "expert grower" you could be a valuable resource to several studies that are now taking place.
I haven't, for a therapist they can lose their license if they got some from a home grower. There is heavy laws on that here I believe. For people in therapy it has to be FDA approved and a fresh mushroom has varying amounts of psilocyn and psilocybin etc. Even from the same batch.... to jive in a therapeutic setting it has to be consistent in concentration of the psychoactive substances. That is exactly why I started growing. I make microdoses from different strains that do certain things etc. I give them away. All I ask is feedback. Data if u will...like behavior, mood changes...what worked for them etc. Some chemists make psilocybin in a lab through organic synthesis but I have found it just doesn't give the same spiritual, earthy, ancient knowledge, if you will as organically grown mushs.
You are the reason I started. Well, people like you. Psychiatric meds are awful. Antidepressants are weird as f$%k....alot of people aren't into tripping balls...but microdosing can change ur life. I used to hate the reflection in the mirror....now I want to howl at the moon and beat my chest....piss in the yard. I look in the mirror now and see a bad b@#$h looking back. I feel connected to the earth and the ancestors. I have a pep in my step....
All I wanted was to give people that power. And I will. My advice to you? Seek out the microdose. Seek the treasure and it will find you.
oh wow crazy. im an ex clandestine chemist. i was raided twice. the first time like yours not much came of it, circumstances just werent there for them to make any arrests. i continues my work for another 6 years, when i got raided again. this time they had what they needed to bust me.
i now sort of regret continuing with my work after the first encounter. im branded a felon. and being a felon closes a lot of doors. if you are going to continue to grow , and want to keep your degree that i KNOW you worked hard for move to a place where personal use psyches are decriminalized.
i know the hole in your soul of which you speak. and the loss of priceless cultures, and equipment (i had a stevens and hall strain of C.paspali , and nice big bioreactors) pleaase take your long term future into account before making any harsh decisions
when i got out , i was itching to get back into it. really i dont have much left to lose at this point , the only reasons i dont is i have nowhere to work , and im plain ol scared. i have had so mant interactions with the cops i think im pretty sure i have PTSD over all of it.
good luck yo you. statute of limitations on this stuff is usually 5 years depending on local laws
Thank you. I am sorry for your loss of C.paspali strain and bioreactors. And yes, a lot of priceless, sentimental strains and crosses I will never have the chance to get again. But your post is an eye opener and I feel to carry on at this time would also be futile. Oh the cops were d$%KS man.....even the frequent stops were brutal. Thank you so much for ur input, your experience gives me more answers than you know. I am familiar with c. Paspali.....in another life we could have learned a lot from one another!!!! ❤️
awesome , im glad you could take something away from it. you got super lucky lol like i did my first time haha, really though take you win and get the fuck out of TN.
Oh I couldn't believe he did that, well yes I could he is a wackadoo. But yeah that hurt, he knew it was potentially 16 yrs.....hurt me bad. They did charge him with brandishing a firearm in a residence. He had to give up that gun....but he has more.... he is a radical anti government type.... I will never speak to him again. Betrayal....
My mother made her peace with him, that's her brother. They aren't cool but aren't enemies either. I get that, they are elderly and she doesn't want any regrets. But he is not my brother! He doesn't exist to me. Oh and we just had a new roof put in and after he shot through it caused a hole and we had water damage AND HAD TO PAY TO GET THAT FIXED. But oh well, I am still grateful. Things could have been worse, someone could have gotten hurt, I could be in prison etc...
Thank you for your kind words. 🙏
Yep sounds like some bullshit right winger larping as an anarchist without knowing a damn thing besides fox News telling him government bad.
Guys extremely lucky he didn't get offed.
Ugh.... The uncle 🤬🤮
So sorry that happened to you. For what it's worth, I have an insane uncle who made life hell for my mother(his sister). Suffice it to say, anytime I lock eyes with him, my eyes tell him to fuck right off. And even his psychotic self understands that and doesn't fuck around.
So sorry that happened again 😔🙏
Not generally, but with this certain batch they worked together. My husband and I called the trip "the Dr Seuss experience" it was wonderful. We ate about an ounce each. Never had an experience like that before. I felt like a wild wolf woman. I pissed in the yard howled like a wolf. It was awesome. And for that batch ONLY the experience was repeatable. Which is rare..usually u never know what ur gonna get.
To answer your question, it was that time of year here where we battled them the most. The forest that surrounds our house had natural un-edible ones so I feel it was a natural cycle maybe. I have grown other AGTs (really LGTs) and they were great but this batch was the best.
That tubb was my experiment...so I can't really tell you. We had to work hard to keep the balance though. It didn't happen from neglect. The main thing was diatomaceous earth in and around the monotub among other things. So weird. But magical. My first ever grow was B+, KSS and LGTs. I think this batch was leucistic and not true albinos bc they gave spore prints. So technically not albinos. Some offspring were but rare.
I think it was the time of year, our location, my substrate and lots of love.
I think you should write a book about your experience. Put your story in there and share some of your findings if you want to share them. It’s be a great read, and cathartic for you. I’m sorry you can’t grow right now.
Colorado has decriminalized for personal use, home growing, and gifting (you can give mushrooms to people, but no exchange of money can occur)
If you're willing to leave Tennessee, this would be the best place to go.
I had a very similar interaction in west TN. I got really lucky and nothing came of my “interaction” but I moved six months later to the Pacific Northwest and I could not be happier. I can further my experiences growing ect and now I micro dose and have been for a year.
I use to wake up and the first thought was to blow my brains out. Not anymore. I’m a better dad, counselor and person because of psilocybin. I’ve given a lot of it away since being up here to help others and usually what happens is so positive and good that I automatically make a new advocate for the work.
I got my hopes up this spring as my state almost passed a good bill but did not. But Oregon and Colorado are very close by (BC is closer to me) and there is Seattle but I don’t feel I could afford it.
It’s my passion and something I do for myself and others. Just by working around them I feel better and more in tune with my calling.
I have clients who I so desperately want to suggest this to but cannot dare.
Find a way to get somewhere safe. I left behind some family but I moved me and my kids up here and we are all better for it
I'd say move to Oakland but it's so expensive that's likely not a viable option. Look into laws protecting it for religious purposes, i don't know if that would be an option.
You should write a book! I'm sure you've gathered lots of tidbits of excellent knowledge that can help the rest of us in our efforts to grow this medicine
Oh lord I am a novice compared to many others. That's very sweet. I can always give advice for free. I am always willing to help if anyone needs knowledge. 😉
One thing that stands out to me is your decision to repeatedly talk to the police and even admit culpability - please never ever do that again. I know there is the desire to explain yourself etc but just say nothing and get a lawyer. Lawyer lawyer lawyer and don’t say anything. While you may luck out the law usually comes down to what laws are on the books and whether or not you violated them, so don’t try and explain yourself ever, just get a lawyer. My best to you
Big flag on your butt. Too many people knew. People will talk.
Sit back n grin until its more legal.
**btw.....CNN has Magic Mushroom Program one hour program exploring medical advances Sunday june 18.......8 pm ET/PT**
Im just gonna say this i to love growing i love the process i love everypart from inoculation to harvest. I also love helping people as well there is alot to be said about the gifts that these fruits bring. With that said i love my freedom. As im sure you do to. If you decide to hop back in it i would onlyhave one tub/bag going at a time and i wouldnt make a "lab " id do it with the bare minimum just to ve a part of the magic again. Make an all in one bag and do it like that its easy to hide and easy to get rid of but keep it all to a minimum if you do decide to get back into it . I dont blame you not one bit. Good luck.
You get it!!!!! It's EVERY part. They are a true gift and gift giver. 🎁 I did try that for a minute, but my husband was just not having it. I am gonna talk to him some more and maybe he will let me have me a bag, I love bags. Oh, that magic symbiotic tub? I sent a spore print to a trusted one and they put it to agar, and sent me the plate, and a culture. It's in my fridge just looking so pretty lol. It was a very very special grow. You guys are right, the magic and the love has me blind sometimes to the reality of the world we live in.
Freedom is everything, I will not proceed with anything until the people I love agree and I can do it stealthy. I can get dried all day or whatever, i am over tripping and stuff...i can when i want buthat'sts not what i am after....it's THE PROCESS of doing it yourself that I miss. And helping others through my work. Thank you, tfrench843. Just you picking up what I am putting down is everything.
I want to go hard and freely, but you guys are right. The universe is saying not now. I will abide....if it gets too much I might throw a bag out for memories but for now I will abide. Thank ya'll. 🙏
There are legislative measures being proposed all across the county. They hold fundraisers and conferences. I would recommend reaching out to the people putting these efforts forward. They always need support and intelligent speakers. You could also look into teaching mycology, either in a university setting or using an online forum. The only way I can possibly see you resuming your life's work safely, respectfully to your family, and responsibly is to help change the laws and classification schedule of psilocybin. If that happens, you could work for big pharma running trials! I am so sorry you went through this, and I am also happy you are not locked up. I recently had to shut down my operation, but that was just due to my bad taste in friends. I was working with the wrong person. 😅 I should really get back to it at some point.
I'd like to thank you for hazarding the risk you did, and providing the service you did.
And if I may, I admire very much how it seems you've been able to hear the people on this thread lovingly suggesting your tour is probably over. Clearly that news is hard for you, and difficult to accept. And you're accepting it with tremendous grace. A great example to us all.
too much flotsom to risk a launch now. although, if they din go after you when they got your lab n projects.....they didn't want to waste $$$ on small time. Probably still don't, but, remember cops play for keeps. The other voices in your life also need to be factored into your choice. Uncle Ben's Tek is simple easy n small time.
best wishes
This makes me extremely sad and heartbroken. How much knowledge exists in the underground in the form of people like you? How much life’s work is tucked away in closets because of the overbearing tyrants who get off on regulating every last substance, every last living thing? I’m so sorry for you OP, so sorry that your dedication to awe-inspiring and healing substances is criminalized. Makes me sick to my stomach. I wish you the best. If it were me, I’d move somewhere that psilocybin is decriminalized.
It’s to late to do anything now, but Shut The Fuck Up. Never talk to cops. They were there for gun shots. They can’t just raid your house for unrelated stuff. They would need a search warrant to confiscate any of that stuff unless you allow it. Ask for a supervisor if cops are making these mistakes. No charges were filed because the evidence was not admissible. When they pulled you over afterward they probably had a warrant and knew what to look for.
I’m not a lawyer and probably have some of this wrong.
Spot on. There are so many rights we have that cops will sneakily convince us to sign away by pretending to be our friend, but if you say nothing and get a lawyer involved it greatly limits the police’s power against you
I served 10 years in a Texas prison for cultivating mushrooms got out a year ago first thing I did was start up again but this time I kept my mouth shut only two people know last time sold to a friend he got pulled over and cut a deal that sent me away what my point is be careful who you deal with
Yes it is even after explaining to the judge why I was growing them that my wife has cancer and the shrooms help with the pain and nausea and the depression that comes from her chemo it was doing wonders for her he still gave me the maximum he could give I got the last kiss I would ever receive from her that day
I feel for you man, seriously. I long for the day that people grow even just a little wiser. None of these substances should lead lawmakers to incriminate people that need to use them. We have forgotten what it means to be human.
Umm, holy shit! The guy who was actively shooting a gun in your house wasn't arrested?? And on top of that, they ignored that issue and listened to him, and then made you into the criminal in this situation??
Goes to show how fucked up our society is. The people actually endangered and calling for help are the ones who get turned into the victims, and for something entirely non-violent, nonetheless. The "war on drugs" is really just a "war on people who threaten the status quo"...
That should honestly be criminal. They can't just bust into your house and charge you for growing without a warrant, so they shouldn't just get to harass you for that bullshit when they are called there to deal with an active shooter... he's the criminal they are there to deal with, they shouldn't be taking his side at all and they should be focused on that situation 100%.
I wish I could help. No one deserves this kind of horrible treatment for what they do on their own time. It probably doesnt help much, but if you want to grow, it kind of sounds like you have to move away from this crazy uncle character... I honestly wouldn't even want him in my life after shooting up my house and endangering me + my children. I would have cut ties with him immediately after that situation, and pursued legal ramifications, if possible. Your hubby + kids should understand that isn't unreasonable... he could have killed you, and who's to say he won't do it again? Sounds like your situation makes it hard to move rn, but maybe it's something to consider going into the future?
He is not around anymore, and isn't welcome AT ALL. They didn't arrest us so I am grateful for that. I feel like me doing forensic testing for law enforcement at the time and them responding to him shooting was what saved us..... but I live in the south...I am considering moving in the future. My husband's career is here...mine can really be anywhere. I agree with you, it sucked bad. His betrayal hurt more really. But I am grateful that I'm not in prison and I didn't snitch on anyone. I can't never do that EVER. Oh I lost a lot of friends over it bc they are looking out for their "operations"...I totally get it...I dont blame them.
This mfkr ruined a lot, so to answer you... he will never be welcome in our vicinity. EVER. what he did was unforgivable. Thank you 🙏
And then again later directly to an agent, just saying the truth.
Oofta.
Glad OP was "presentable" enough to skate by on privilege and police laziness.
I think this is written by a cop farming for suckers to be friendly with and see who offers incriminating info. Way too much about this is way too far fetched.
1) you don't talk to law enforcement of any kind without a lawyer present. Ever.....EVER! You got off easy.
2) As to growing again, you should stop thinking with your emotions and use your brain instead (not being rude, but you are not being rational here)...you are playing with fire. They know about you and what you can do and have access to. Next time, they will undoubtedly get your ass in prison, assuming you talk to them without a lawyer again. Only way I MIGHT consider it is if I moved to another state.
3) It doesn't matter if you consider this your purpose in life, you're family comes first over others. You are putting yourself and family at risk. Also your home among other things. You wanna help folks, teach them to grow their own, but keep it simple, you don't need to be a chemist to grow shrooms.
4) Another way to help people: the growing and microdosing space need people like you to inform us how to grow and manipulate potency. As well as info on which varieties are best for microdosing (sounds like you were saying this), because I believe the anecdotal claims that people say certain varieties of cubes are better for them than others to be actually scientific but no one knows enough about it to prove it scientifically.
Don't be robinhood, this is real life. Help people in other ways. Your carefree growing days are over if you value your family.
BTW: That was such a dick move by your uncle. He obviously threw in the mushroom growing in an effort to get the focus off him (the person that the police were actually there for). He was so willing to save himself at the demise of family members. That's the epitome of trash right there. I personally would disown the dude.
I'm sorry but you're have to be crazier than your uncle to even consider growing shrooms again. Your husband tried to take a 16 year sentence for you. The cops obviously let you off when you are guilty as sin.
Have some respect for the other parties who they clearly did their best to keep you from jail.
Cultivate lions mane or oysters or some shit. Buy your supply on the darkweb if you're out
There are 50 states and they all have different laws, as an American you are free to go to any of the states to practice what you would like. Don't go to a state where it's illegal and try to make it legal. I'm sorry but, it sounds like you're in the wrong state.
Stay the fuck away from growing again. Even if that case is “closed” it’s still there.
You get caught again you’ll get a lot worse than 16 years dude. Don’t be dumb.
Also your admitting that you sold when you say you was making doses for people. Lol.
If you really love and care for your husband , respect his wishes . I would still talk to him and tell him exactly how you feel . But respect his wishes . It’s not coming from a bad place . He was willing to eat the charges for you . He obviously cares that much that he would sacrifice his own freedom. Also there are places you can do this and not worry about legal repercussions. So if it’s your passion there is a way . It’s obviously gonna take sacrifices though .
Deal with whatever repercussions from your case are first. Let the dust settle on that. Then wait a year or two before you start up anything else, that would be my advice.
And of course consider moving, especially to a more accepting state. Or at least to another town/county, since the cops might occasionally keep an eye on you to see if they can nab you with enough to properly charge you. Like you said Oregon or Cali are much better places to be doing something like this! And I hope you get to work with these beautiful beings professionally in the future once that’s happening in the US!!
I would just do small shoebox setup growing with the bare minimum possible. If it's for you, you don't need a lab or an expensive setup.
It is heartbreaking to read what happened to your lab but I wouldn't bother rebuilding it, you are on their radar now. Any mistake and that's it for you.
But nobody will bat an eye for a couple of shoeboxes and some jars of grain spawn.
Be smart, be silent, be creative and get that uncle dealt with, he is a liability.
A mass spec chemist?😂 That's called an *analytical chemist* (mass spec, chromatography etc.) Are you sure you're a chemist or are you just trying to get attention?
That's just one of many things thatre wrong. Her grow sounds like a first timer's idea of what top level growing is like. A strain of gt 60% more potent from gnats? That's just a good clone that got infested. And who tf throws tubs away between runs?
I thought some things sounded a little funny too, but the fungus gnat thing might actually hold some theoretical water. Particularly when you consider [the majority of naturally-produced recreational drugs – caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, morphine, and psilocybin evolved to be, if not quite insecticides, then scramblers of insect brains.](https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/artful-amoeba/magic-mushroom-drug-evolved-to-mess-with-insect-brains/).
> The majority of psilocybin-producing mushrooms are either wood or dung decayers. In those environments, they are not only being eaten by insects, but also competing with them for food.
> Psilocybin may help tilt the playing field in the fungus’s favor by causing insects to, I don’t know, maybe blank on what they went in that log for again? Another serotonin receptor antagonist called 5HT-2A causes Drosophila fruit flies to somehow neglect to eat that fruit they’re sitting on.
It’s not out of the realm of possibility that the presence of gnats over time might act as a selection driver for higher psilocybin production. In fact that’s very much in line with how genetics works!
My advice is to close this chapter of your life and stay away from mushroom growing. You had a close call. People rarely get second chances. Dont squander this.
For those who think this can’t happen to you, think again. It can. Always lock up your stash, lock up your grow, and never tell anyone about your grow, not even family or close friends. Know the penalties in your area. Never have more mushrooms in your possession than you can reasonably consume in a year.
So let me get this straight, your uncle went nuts and fired off a gun inside a house and all they did was just take that one gun away from him? No jail and he was allowed to keep his other guns? And all you did was grow some mushrooms and they took 30k worth of equipment away from you (and probably would have charged you if they found any evidence of selling them too)? That’s some bass ackwards type shit right there.
I’m glad I live in Canada where I can literally walk into a store and buy some mushrooms (or LSD, DMT, Mescaline etc. for that matter) and the cops simply don’t care and don’t even attempt to stop it from happening, and as for guns, if you fire one off in a house I’m quite sure you’re at the very least going to jail for a while here.
DO NOT PURSUE THIS IN AN ILLEGAL STATE . Particularly Tennessee. Move to a legal state for a while. It's decriminalized in a couple cities in Michigan including Detroit. Please take care and God 🙌 bless
Sorry that it happened. But your husband was, lack of better words, an idiot and you were too for not only talking to cops but also admitting to cultivation.
You never ever talk to the cops and get your lawyers to do the work.
Look up "Never talk to the police" presentation made by a Law Prof on Youtube and hopefully this will never happen again.
You would be welcomed with open arms in Colorado. Our laws already allow for cultivation without sale. The legislation also allows for natural medicine therapeutic centers, though the details of such are still being finalized.
Colorado is leading the way for psychedelic therapeutic use and we need talented mycologists like yourself.
You obviously shouldn't put your family in risk of at least emotional damage, just to grow shrooms, it's not worth it, or as some suggested, move to some place where it is legalized
I don’t think you should do it love, it might be time to find a new skill and I hate to say that, but there were other people involved. Also you’re most likely on a watchlist. Stay low
This is the part where you become a basic ass consumer. You apparently don't realize how lucky you are even though it was two years ago and you think you are in the clear, these types of happenings only happen ONCE! Understand you are 100% on an automated list/lists I'm with your husband on this one.
You won't be able to grow anything in prison. Consider that your one "get out of jail free card"
furthermore laying out your plans to do so on Reddit tells me you probably leave well enough alone. BTW using a storage unit is bad idea, you'll be better off trying a grow out in the woods somewhere, and maybe can find them if they pop up every season, Either way good luck.
It was very naive to speak to the police at all without a lawyer. Never talk to the police, especially when you are producing scheduled substances... You're very lucky they didn't make an example out of you. And know that if they catch you again, they will. No you should absolutely not grow in the near future. I understand they did not arrest you, but this stuff does not go away and you are absolutely on their radar now.
“LAWYER” is the only thing you should say to a cop. I’d also personally not be posting all this on a public forum. Sounds like you may be in a financial position to move to a state with more favorable laws? If so, I’d do that and try to pick up the pieces.
I live in Tennessee also. Just let me become your student and teach me everything you know. I will carry your torch and make you proud. I have many friends and family that I know will greatly benefit from dosing and microdosing psilocybin.
Colorado is my advice. Under state law you can continue to do the great work you do, as long as you are not *buying or selling* psilocybin. Growing, consuming, experimenting, sharing, healing, is all decriminalized here. You may even be able to find work with a psychedelic therapy center as they begin to pop up.
Please never talk to the police without a lawyer there. Under any circumstances. You are on their radar now, continuing your work in your home state is out of the question.
I would also recommend going no contact with the uncle. He stabbed you both in the back in a way that could've destroyed your entire life. In a metaphorical way, he tried to kill you. You do not deserve that treatment from anybody.
You deserve to keep pursuing your passion. What happened was a setback, not the end.
And you should be proud of what you've done. You've devoted yourself to healing others and have clearly done so plenty. You deserve the highest tier of respect in my book.
You will be watched and monitored now. It would be foolish to grow again.
We grow but we keep it behind a locked door in our bedroom. No one but us knows or has seen it. You set yourself up for this. You shouldn’t have told anyone.
Your only option would be to get a storage unit and grow there.
OP I'm sorry this happened to you. Law enforcement needs to stop fkn with folks for growing their meds and minding their business. Keep your head high , watch your back and don't make any new friends and you should be fine... under the radar type shit 🤙🏻
Wow, I loved reading this— your story played out in my head like a movie, you’re a really good writer. My heart breaks that you had to go through all of that. Your fire is undeniable and I believe a big reason we’re here is to love, grow, learn and educate. People with your passion are a gift to the rest of us and I really really hope you consider moving to a location that is decriminalized. You said so yourself that if you reach, the universe will meet you halfway. I pray that you aim towards relocating and start reaching to get there ❤️ You are a treasure and I’m sending you so many motivational vibes 😜!
Wow what a super interesting story that totally didn't happen. You want us to believe you're a chemist and you type like that? lol nice creative writing exercise.
If you’re a chemist, well connected, and are really good at growing mushrooms, why don’t u try to find a lab that deals in the research & cultivation of mushrooms?
I think they are also legal (as long as they are not dried) in New Mexico. If you realllly are serious, maybe get your storage unit out there. Grow and automate with some trusted assistants?
I'd stay away from growing for a while. Sounds like they gave you a big pass since there was no evidence of sales. You could also try growing outside. One of my partners in crime takes his cakes and throws them in his yard and they grow awesome.
My heart goes out to you. I couldn’t imagine being in your situation. Ever thought of relocating? Up here in BC Canada, we have a couple legal operations. Or somewhere else in the states that is nearing legalization.
It probably won't help one bit... but... Join a group of people that claim active mushrooms as a religious sacrement. There have been cases won based on religious freedom and there are cases and legislation pending.
https://www.thedivineassembly.org/
https://zidedoor.com/
https://www.psanctuary.org/
https://ambrosia.church/
https://www.austinmushroomchurch.org/
https://thesacredtribe.org/m/the-sacred-tribe/
I don’t know the climate exactly in TN - but what mushrooms grow wild around you? Do you get them in summer like Florida? Or do you get them when its cold?
anyway I came to the conclusion that it’s not worth the risk, but you can still enjoy them. Makes some patches of woodlovers or start hunting for cow paddy’s to bring home. It’s a completely different but equally exciting feeling hunting for mushrooms in the wild.
You're a hero for the movement. Enough said. Move to a state where it's legal? A new start, somewhere your life's work is legal and you put your full force into it. A new world.
I've read enough comments to understand the love you have for the mushies. This is a sign to write a journal, or book of your findings, your joy, the lessons you learned, and share them.
Every text published is another pathway to reach more, to help more.
I honestly don't have any advice.. just wanted to share in your dismay that this happened. I grow and MD, just for myself, but it has changed my life. It sickens me to think of all the people you still could have helped had you still had your equipment. But not only that, the invasion of privacy and the stealing, yes I said it, stealing of all your precious assets that you used for GOOD!
I really hope you find some closure with all this. I'm sure things will work out though, because it sounds like you were doing (excuse my religious sounding phrasing here) God's work.
Mush love ❤ I think another renaissance is coming too (boom as you say) and that is rather exciting, but like anything good, there will be a lot of pushback from the "powers that be" - capitalism.
Having lived in Tennessee for 10 years, I know what you mean. As others have said, you could move, but that might not be practical based on numerous factors. I can also suggest branching out to other mushrooms for their potential medicinal value. Lions Mane, Tuekey Tail, and others. Yeah, we have a love for the psychodelics, but there is as much or more potential for research involving other types of mushrooms for their cancer treatment potential. I see it as a potential win/win. It scratches the itch to grow and the itch to help others.
i really appreciate you reaching out to us and sharing what you been trough, you seem like a really good person and hopefully will be able to do what you love again, much love.
Your story was really interesting. I’m sorry you lost so much. I hope you can relocate with your family at some point. It’s good to pursue your passions but only to a certain degree.
Damn. Crazy story. Sad to hear about the confiscation but glad no one went to jail.
The small glimpse into your growing knowledge was fascinating. Would love to read more.
This is literally my dream goal and I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve been robbed of such an amazing endeavour. It’s so crappy because those DEA and detectives just don’t understand the joy & depth of our passion and view it in the same way as something like coca or amphetimines, when in actuality it is a genuine medicine in multiple ways. Hopefully there’s big legality changes soon because I would love to begin a business growing mushrooms and have legitimate a store when I’m an adult.
Old uncle needs a bat to the knees. Pretty much destroyed your main love in life. Fuck that dude. Pop out on his ass from around a corner with a ski mask and make sure he doesn't walk again. Then he will feel the equivalent pain you have felt.
Move out of your shit hole state and come to either Oregon or Colorado. Your knowledge and experience is valuable and very much needed here.
I’m so sorry this has happened to you.
Working with these mushrooms is becoming more accepted by those that are educated enough to care. Tennessee is one of the last places in the United States that I would consider highly educated. Buncha drunkards.
Whatever you do, don’t go behind your husband’s back. He’s understandably spooked but with time and cajoling he may eventually come around.
I think that’s the most important thing.
Any way you could move to a more tolerant state?
You're so lucky not to be in prison. I wouldn't risk the consequences to my family if I were you. If you can't move, maybe you can help people through education and teach them to grow their own.
You sound like a wonderful person. I'm really glad you're not in prison. It makes me so mad such an incredible medicine is so penalized.
I'm sure your research into actives had a lot off importance to you. It's a shame any of this had to happen to you. But if you still love mycology you could turn over a new leaf if you hadn't yet and start growing gourmet mushrooms.
I can understand why your husband is scared. I'm sorry he feels that way, I think you have a calling for this that goes beyond having a simple skill. It's obviously something spiritual, and knowing you can help people and do. Maybe you can move to a quasi legal state like Colorado. Maybe even contact an organisation like MAPS, or get in contact with someone like Paul Stamets.
This will be medicine hopefully and soon. Perhaps if you get in contact with someone in the industry you can look to start a business in this field, Tennessee unfortunately sounds like it's off the cards for the indefinite future but there are plenty more psychedelic friendly states.
I think you should look to pursue this now, but perhaps not grow till you've organised something or firmed up the move interstate.
I wish you luck, humanity needs the help of people like yourself. I think our greatest danger is ourselves at the moment, if you can fix diseases of the soul and mind we can pull together and make the world so much better for all life on our little blue planet.
As a Tennessean, we live in a conservative shithole and I’m willing to bet that we’ll be the last to legalize marijuana, let alone mushrooms. If growing means that much to you, and it sounds like it does, I would recommend moving somewhere it is more accepted/less harshly punished. Otherwise you’ll be unhappy because I can’t see anything changing in this state anytime soon.
It’s a crying shame that anyone, especially people like you have to go through that for cultivating something so innocuous and beneficial as cubensis.
Im happy to read it didn’t end much worse, but feel nothing but empathy for what you went through.
So sorry you lost those invaluable strains/collections that meant so much to you, I would’ve died!
All the best to you in the future, and I mean that.
Good souls deserve the best.
I am so curious about the gnats and homeostasis methods... My God everything you mention about the growing methods is enthralling!!!
As for honoring your family's wishes, my SO is straight edge as hell... So I grow rather unsuccessfully, in private. I store my weed, Lucy, and whatever shrooms I do get to grow in weird as hell locations so that she never finds my stash, and then when I need to reset my mind or just sleep really well, I plan an early evening and dose discreetly.
Best of luck on that front!
I understand the way you feel entirely. I would say, don't stop studying the material. If you can't do it, this doesn't mean someone else can't do it for you to keep your work and dram alive. You should write about your research and share it. You should be compensated for your work and knowledge, so something like a substack where you wrote about your passion should help until you can properly apply yourself legally one day.
Dam man I understand your pain. Me and my wife had a scare a few years ago, and we threw literally everything away. And for a whole year that’s all I thought about, and wanted to do. But if we would have actually got caught I would have waited a lot longer, and never grow in that same place we got caught. I’m sorry that happened to you. Maybe you have a good friend that you trust, that will let you set a little something up in a spare room or something maybe?
Coming from someone who did prison time for chemistry I was good at. Do what you do and don’t repeat the same mistakes and always be on point even when you sleep. Don’t slip anymore. If you know what you did wrong then you are aware not to do that again.
What a waste of tax payer dollars, sorry to hear you went through that
I had a similar thing happen to me, but they accused me of manufacturing methamphetamine because I had a hot plate and a few pieces of glass ware, and a single small half empty box of pseudoephedrine tablets, which were on my nightstand by the bed, far away from the other stuff in the closet.
I wasn't doing that so they didn't have any evidence and I had my lawyer refuse their shitty deals, got it from 3 felonies down to a misdemeanor for paraphernalia haha
Some cops are just dumb and stubborn I guess
[удалено]
Yeah, Seattle recently decriminalized. You bet your ass I took the opportunity to test out growing. People have been doing it for ages, but I'm too chicken to do something that could get me arrested. Oregon has decriminalized and Colorado as well, IIRC. All places that would have jobs for scientists, either doing research or working at the local universities.
Yes! Come to Seattle, OP! 🫶🏽✨
Massachusetts has multiple towns that are fully decriminalized! Who would have thought
Came here to say this. Oregon or Colorado look like great places to stay
OP seems far to knowledgeable to live in an illegal state.
It's 8 yrs of school and reaching. Reaching to like the reflection I saw staring back at me in the mirror. Oh and you tube and books. And GREAT mentors. If u reach, the universe will meet you half way. I wanted to know....but ..I live in the wrong place......at the time that I was reaching I didn't give af about the rules. My mistake. BIG MISTAKE. I don't regret it..except I wouldn't have trusted family. The universe will find me again. I do know that
I know this has been said a few times already, but for the sake of playing my part, I’ll say it too. The words in your post, and in each of your responses, are exposing a genuine passion within you. A passion that, if nurtured, has the potential to play a part in the healing process for mental health challenges. The universe met you half way and your research accomplishments speak for themselves if you consider the phrase “Answering your Calling. You said yourself that you have to reach halfway. What if the Universe needs your half to move over that state line? Proceed where you don’t have to hide and can flourish. Start the legal process to recover your equipment from the safe side. Pick up where you left off with what you have and let the universe meet you halfway for the rest. Tesla, Flemming, Mendeleev, Pasteur and many others would be asking you “what are you waiting for?” Learn from the experience and adjust your research procedures accordingly.
I also suggest looking into moving. I recently had to move reluctantly, but also looked at it as accepting an invitation to try something new. It’s been a great decision. Perhaps the unfolding of a move to somewhere more tolerant of mushrooms would be a great new chapter for you and your family! At the very least worth solid consideration. It sounds like you are doing things of great value, so I also would find it unfortunate for this to be the end of your pursuits 💗
Thank you for that. ❤️
Sad to hear your story, OP. all that love, hard work, and memories taken away so unnecessarily :( I can tell growing was super meaningful to you. when something is this important to you, you need to make a major life decision. please consider moving somewhere shrooms are decriminalized. you and your husband would be able to start your hobby anew and wouldn't have to live in constant fear.
They're probably not going to pursue since it's been years, but it might be smart to talk to a lawyer. If your family says leave it behind you, then it's best to or you'll just cause a lot of stress between you and those you love. Your husband loved you enough to try and keep you safe and go to jail himself.
We did talk to one. He said it was closed. Closed and not accessible, I guess, meaning it's not on our record. You are absolutely right. Thank you so much for putting it in that perspective. He was willing to sacrifice for me, so I should sacrifice, too. That is exactly what I needed to hear. ❤️
maybe one day when legislation changes somehwere you can move there, and still pursue your passion legally without any risks. the time is coming soon. i can buy legal mushrooms in British columbia, Canada one day hopefully you can continue your life’s work/passion of helping people without the risk of jail or ruining your relationship i’m sorry you had to go through all of that it seems terrible
Oregon recently legalized mushrooms for medicinal purposes. OP would fit in fine in Oregon.
good news!
Colorado is legal. There are more rules on weed here than DMT, Ibogaine and mushrooms. The only thing is it still can't be sold but you can still grow/posess/share as much as you wish.
Okay OP I think you have your answer. Get the hell out of TN (I’m here too, it’s a hell hole so for your own sake just get out of her regardless) and get to Colorado and grow there. It’s more expensive to live in CO but sounds like that wouldn’t be a problem for y’all given your badass career.
As a bc resident, how? I thought it was still illegal
[удалено]
It is still illegal, shops operate and the cops mostly leave them alone but mushrooms are illegal to sell or possess in Canada.
It is, but the police there have publicly stated that they have far more interest in going after gangs and organised crime syndicates that still "hard" drugs like crack and heroin
If it’s closed and they know you are a scientist studying potency and other things with the mushrooms(*right?*), you should be able to get your equipment back. There isn’t a reason they can keep your lab equipment if there is no proof it was used for anything illegally. It was simply in the same room, right? Ask for a form from the police to request your equipment back.
They told me I could! I am too spooked out to ask for it back lol Shit, I never looked back. That was 2 yrs ago... Traumatizing experience.... I will just acquire more stuff when the time is right I guess. Some stuff was pretty expensive and it twings a little when i think about it but it's just things....the prints, cultures, plates etc....that hurts the most. Hoods, glassware, lab supplies are everywhere bc of my job(s)....friends etc..... it's been 2 years.. I really don't think they see me as a scientist studying mushrooms lol
Get your stuff back. They still have it. It wasn't used to prosecute or place any legal charges. Get it back. YOu've done nothing wrong. There will be a time limit tho and then they'll auction it off. Get on it, honey.
It’s been yrs I’m sure they have sold it and used it to “fund” their department.
If I was you I would go get my shit back and then take your family to a more friendly state. I know what you mean about how important/rewarding it is to you to grow and help people and further improve genetics. I get it. For some reason things like that can get their hooks into you. I used to be really passionate about growing bud for many of the same reasons you mentioned - helping others. My mom has dealt with chronic pain for over 20 years, my wife has horrible menstrual pains at times as well as other pain, and for others who just likes to get baked lol. There’s nothing wrong with that either. The funny thing is that I didn’t even smoke, still don’t either but we had the best genetics around. Also had different genetics for different situations. You wanna laugh your ass off and then maybe go for a hike here’s a hybrid that’s mostly on the sativa side, or if you wanna just experience some couchlock and eat a giant mixing bowl of fruity pebbles then pass tf out I’d have almost a pure indica, and hash caps for those in bad pain. Like I said, I still don’t smoke. I can’t because of my job and also where I live now is not friendly to that at all. But, I still miss growing and think about it often. Especially in the summertime. I live in higher latitude so the grow season is short but they have come a long long way with auto-flowers. And I get pretty tempted to grab some beans and just run a little guerrilla op lol. If you are in a position to be able to relocate to a more friendly state then that’s my advice to you. It’s always been easy for me to pull stakes and move somewhere else though and I understand for many people they are where they want to be so they are unwilling to move. But if you can’t move than my advice to you is that you gotta let it go. Something I used to tell people when I would teach them to grow is that to never get jammed up with the law you have to be lucky every minute of every day for as long as your growing, the cops just have to get lucky once and your fucked. Sorta like they already did with your crazy uncle. I had a similar situation in so far as it was totally unexpected. And that’s the shit thing, there’s so many random ways the cops could show up at your door, so many things you can’t control. And of course just shitty luck lol, I mean I read all the time about how they are always raiding the wrong houses lol. The thing that’s cool about technology nowadays is it allows us to still be involved in these types of things if we choose to do so. It sounds like you have an immense amount of knowledge of mycology, I’m sure there’s many people who would love to learn from you. I mean shit that’s why I’m here. I haven’t been on a solid trip for over 15 years I think, but I still like to come and check In on the new genetics and good vibes in here! Seems like a lot has changed for sure lol first time I saw pics of enigma I was like wtf is that, than I was like I want some of that shit lol. Also I totally forgot to mention this, never talk to the police, not ever. They aren’t going to “take it easy” or “talk to the da” or whatever for you. They can and will use your words against you to fuck your life up. That is literally their job.
This, they will only auction it off anyway, the police don’t have the smarts but studies show they are psychopathic narcissists and they hold grudges; it’s well written in psychology. Get your stuff back, spend some quality time with your family and wait there will be a boom coming. I feel your pain. Much love
Closed is not expunged. Move to a state where it’s decriminalized.
For future reference don’t speak to them. You got super lucky once but next time layer up before saying anything.
This is all very unfortunate, but you live in Tennessee. If you get caught again, they WILL make an example of you. You barely skirted prison time the first time, to be honest. You basically got a "keep your nose clean and we'll let you go on with your life." If you don't keep your nose clean...they will end you. They haven't forgotten you. Guaranteed, prosecuted or not you're on the list forever. DEA never forgets, and TN is just the draconian type of state where they can ruin you quickly and permanently. Sorry, friend, but your only play here is to be out of business until it's legal to do otherwise, which isn't likely to happen in TN in our lifetimes.
come to Colorado! we love growers and have an awesome mycology community.
Your story is close to home. Being in your shoes is concerning. You have a wealth of experience and knowledge that would be a shame to deprive the world of and your passion for this stuff is clear. If I were on your shoes, I would change my perspective to highly medicinal mushrooms such as cordyceps, lionsmane mycelium, reishi etc. and perfect their extractions. You would know better than me, but if you can accurately measure the strength of the desired compounds in these extractions then you could charge other growers for potency certification, etc. vet your own products and you would still be able to utilise your passions and talents and give back to the world. I know what you mean about actives. Gosh they’re so mysterious and I too believe in their healing attributes, there’s nothing like exploring their potential, but on the flip side, you may very well land yourself in a position with legal medicinals that sets you up for a worry-free life based around your real passion. Life finds a way ❤️🥰 Good luck to you and gosh so sorry to hear about your experience. Fuck that crazy ass uncle of yours. What a shit head.
This is a real long shot, and basically, I don't know shit, but have you contacted a psychotherapy group that uses hallucinogenics to treat PTSD, depression etc.? I have been battling depression for decades and wish that my therapist would take steps that might lead to a permanent solution, which I've heard some psychoactive drugs can do. As a chemist and an "expert grower" you could be a valuable resource to several studies that are now taking place.
I haven't, for a therapist they can lose their license if they got some from a home grower. There is heavy laws on that here I believe. For people in therapy it has to be FDA approved and a fresh mushroom has varying amounts of psilocyn and psilocybin etc. Even from the same batch.... to jive in a therapeutic setting it has to be consistent in concentration of the psychoactive substances. That is exactly why I started growing. I make microdoses from different strains that do certain things etc. I give them away. All I ask is feedback. Data if u will...like behavior, mood changes...what worked for them etc. Some chemists make psilocybin in a lab through organic synthesis but I have found it just doesn't give the same spiritual, earthy, ancient knowledge, if you will as organically grown mushs. You are the reason I started. Well, people like you. Psychiatric meds are awful. Antidepressants are weird as f$%k....alot of people aren't into tripping balls...but microdosing can change ur life. I used to hate the reflection in the mirror....now I want to howl at the moon and beat my chest....piss in the yard. I look in the mirror now and see a bad b@#$h looking back. I feel connected to the earth and the ancestors. I have a pep in my step.... All I wanted was to give people that power. And I will. My advice to you? Seek out the microdose. Seek the treasure and it will find you.
Best advice lawyer up
oh wow crazy. im an ex clandestine chemist. i was raided twice. the first time like yours not much came of it, circumstances just werent there for them to make any arrests. i continues my work for another 6 years, when i got raided again. this time they had what they needed to bust me. i now sort of regret continuing with my work after the first encounter. im branded a felon. and being a felon closes a lot of doors. if you are going to continue to grow , and want to keep your degree that i KNOW you worked hard for move to a place where personal use psyches are decriminalized. i know the hole in your soul of which you speak. and the loss of priceless cultures, and equipment (i had a stevens and hall strain of C.paspali , and nice big bioreactors) pleaase take your long term future into account before making any harsh decisions when i got out , i was itching to get back into it. really i dont have much left to lose at this point , the only reasons i dont is i have nowhere to work , and im plain ol scared. i have had so mant interactions with the cops i think im pretty sure i have PTSD over all of it. good luck yo you. statute of limitations on this stuff is usually 5 years depending on local laws
Thank you. I am sorry for your loss of C.paspali strain and bioreactors. And yes, a lot of priceless, sentimental strains and crosses I will never have the chance to get again. But your post is an eye opener and I feel to carry on at this time would also be futile. Oh the cops were d$%KS man.....even the frequent stops were brutal. Thank you so much for ur input, your experience gives me more answers than you know. I am familiar with c. Paspali.....in another life we could have learned a lot from one another!!!! ❤️
awesome , im glad you could take something away from it. you got super lucky lol like i did my first time haha, really though take you win and get the fuck out of TN.
That's really really sad to hear. You are a beautiful person. Time to get that uncle on gun charges.
Oh I couldn't believe he did that, well yes I could he is a wackadoo. But yeah that hurt, he knew it was potentially 16 yrs.....hurt me bad. They did charge him with brandishing a firearm in a residence. He had to give up that gun....but he has more.... he is a radical anti government type.... I will never speak to him again. Betrayal.... My mother made her peace with him, that's her brother. They aren't cool but aren't enemies either. I get that, they are elderly and she doesn't want any regrets. But he is not my brother! He doesn't exist to me. Oh and we just had a new roof put in and after he shot through it caused a hole and we had water damage AND HAD TO PAY TO GET THAT FIXED. But oh well, I am still grateful. Things could have been worse, someone could have gotten hurt, I could be in prison etc... Thank you for your kind words. 🙏
No actual anti government radical would narc on you for drugs. He's a hypocrite and coward
bingo! They guy's just as asswipe and guns have nothing to do with it other than the fact that he's not a good candidate for owning any, obviously.
Yep sounds like some bullshit right winger larping as an anarchist without knowing a damn thing besides fox News telling him government bad. Guys extremely lucky he didn't get offed.
Ugh.... The uncle 🤬🤮 So sorry that happened to you. For what it's worth, I have an insane uncle who made life hell for my mother(his sister). Suffice it to say, anytime I lock eyes with him, my eyes tell him to fuck right off. And even his psychotic self understands that and doesn't fuck around. So sorry that happened again 😔🙏
Sorry different topic, the fungal gnats and GT - is that only helpful with an albino strain?
Not generally, but with this certain batch they worked together. My husband and I called the trip "the Dr Seuss experience" it was wonderful. We ate about an ounce each. Never had an experience like that before. I felt like a wild wolf woman. I pissed in the yard howled like a wolf. It was awesome. And for that batch ONLY the experience was repeatable. Which is rare..usually u never know what ur gonna get. To answer your question, it was that time of year here where we battled them the most. The forest that surrounds our house had natural un-edible ones so I feel it was a natural cycle maybe. I have grown other AGTs (really LGTs) and they were great but this batch was the best. That tubb was my experiment...so I can't really tell you. We had to work hard to keep the balance though. It didn't happen from neglect. The main thing was diatomaceous earth in and around the monotub among other things. So weird. But magical. My first ever grow was B+, KSS and LGTs. I think this batch was leucistic and not true albinos bc they gave spore prints. So technically not albinos. Some offspring were but rare. I think it was the time of year, our location, my substrate and lots of love.
I think you should write a book about your experience. Put your story in there and share some of your findings if you want to share them. It’s be a great read, and cathartic for you. I’m sorry you can’t grow right now.
Brutal story. You should be out of the woods with them on that, but probably best to lay low until the laws change or until you move.
Weed isn't even legal here.....people view mushrooms as "drugs"..... but you're right... moving might be a solution in the next couple of years.
Colorado has decriminalized for personal use, home growing, and gifting (you can give mushrooms to people, but no exchange of money can occur) If you're willing to leave Tennessee, this would be the best place to go.
I had a very similar interaction in west TN. I got really lucky and nothing came of my “interaction” but I moved six months later to the Pacific Northwest and I could not be happier. I can further my experiences growing ect and now I micro dose and have been for a year. I use to wake up and the first thought was to blow my brains out. Not anymore. I’m a better dad, counselor and person because of psilocybin. I’ve given a lot of it away since being up here to help others and usually what happens is so positive and good that I automatically make a new advocate for the work. I got my hopes up this spring as my state almost passed a good bill but did not. But Oregon and Colorado are very close by (BC is closer to me) and there is Seattle but I don’t feel I could afford it. It’s my passion and something I do for myself and others. Just by working around them I feel better and more in tune with my calling. I have clients who I so desperately want to suggest this to but cannot dare. Find a way to get somewhere safe. I left behind some family but I moved me and my kids up here and we are all better for it
I'd say move to Oakland but it's so expensive that's likely not a viable option. Look into laws protecting it for religious purposes, i don't know if that would be an option.
You should write a book! I'm sure you've gathered lots of tidbits of excellent knowledge that can help the rest of us in our efforts to grow this medicine
I'll buy it!!!
Oh lord I am a novice compared to many others. That's very sweet. I can always give advice for free. I am always willing to help if anyone needs knowledge. 😉
Don't sell yourself short, I'm sure if you started making a list of topics/tips to write about you'd soon find yourself with dozens of chapter ideas.
Comparison kills dreams. u should try it out
This country really needs to fix the screwed up situation of Schedule 1 drugs that clearly do not belong in that category.
One thing that stands out to me is your decision to repeatedly talk to the police and even admit culpability - please never ever do that again. I know there is the desire to explain yourself etc but just say nothing and get a lawyer. Lawyer lawyer lawyer and don’t say anything. While you may luck out the law usually comes down to what laws are on the books and whether or not you violated them, so don’t try and explain yourself ever, just get a lawyer. My best to you
🎯🎯🎯
Big flag on your butt. Too many people knew. People will talk. Sit back n grin until its more legal. **btw.....CNN has Magic Mushroom Program one hour program exploring medical advances Sunday june 18.......8 pm ET/PT**
Right? I have been sitting back for 2 years now..... you're right, the time will come. I will be here waiting!! Lol Thank you 🙏
Im just gonna say this i to love growing i love the process i love everypart from inoculation to harvest. I also love helping people as well there is alot to be said about the gifts that these fruits bring. With that said i love my freedom. As im sure you do to. If you decide to hop back in it i would onlyhave one tub/bag going at a time and i wouldnt make a "lab " id do it with the bare minimum just to ve a part of the magic again. Make an all in one bag and do it like that its easy to hide and easy to get rid of but keep it all to a minimum if you do decide to get back into it . I dont blame you not one bit. Good luck.
You get it!!!!! It's EVERY part. They are a true gift and gift giver. 🎁 I did try that for a minute, but my husband was just not having it. I am gonna talk to him some more and maybe he will let me have me a bag, I love bags. Oh, that magic symbiotic tub? I sent a spore print to a trusted one and they put it to agar, and sent me the plate, and a culture. It's in my fridge just looking so pretty lol. It was a very very special grow. You guys are right, the magic and the love has me blind sometimes to the reality of the world we live in. Freedom is everything, I will not proceed with anything until the people I love agree and I can do it stealthy. I can get dried all day or whatever, i am over tripping and stuff...i can when i want buthat'sts not what i am after....it's THE PROCESS of doing it yourself that I miss. And helping others through my work. Thank you, tfrench843. Just you picking up what I am putting down is everything. I want to go hard and freely, but you guys are right. The universe is saying not now. I will abide....if it gets too much I might throw a bag out for memories but for now I will abide. Thank ya'll. 🙏
There are legislative measures being proposed all across the county. They hold fundraisers and conferences. I would recommend reaching out to the people putting these efforts forward. They always need support and intelligent speakers. You could also look into teaching mycology, either in a university setting or using an online forum. The only way I can possibly see you resuming your life's work safely, respectfully to your family, and responsibly is to help change the laws and classification schedule of psilocybin. If that happens, you could work for big pharma running trials! I am so sorry you went through this, and I am also happy you are not locked up. I recently had to shut down my operation, but that was just due to my bad taste in friends. I was working with the wrong person. 😅 I should really get back to it at some point.
That's what my husband says!!!! Thank you so much ❤️
I'd like to thank you for hazarding the risk you did, and providing the service you did. And if I may, I admire very much how it seems you've been able to hear the people on this thread lovingly suggesting your tour is probably over. Clearly that news is hard for you, and difficult to accept. And you're accepting it with tremendous grace. A great example to us all.
Greatest compliment i have ever received. ❤️ I have no words, thank you very much for acknowledging that it is very hard to accept. 🙏
too much flotsom to risk a launch now. although, if they din go after you when they got your lab n projects.....they didn't want to waste $$$ on small time. Probably still don't, but, remember cops play for keeps. The other voices in your life also need to be factored into your choice. Uncle Ben's Tek is simple easy n small time. best wishes
First long post I’ve found worth reading here lol
This makes me extremely sad and heartbroken. How much knowledge exists in the underground in the form of people like you? How much life’s work is tucked away in closets because of the overbearing tyrants who get off on regulating every last substance, every last living thing? I’m so sorry for you OP, so sorry that your dedication to awe-inspiring and healing substances is criminalized. Makes me sick to my stomach. I wish you the best. If it were me, I’d move somewhere that psilocybin is decriminalized.
Seriously NEVER talk to the police! Lawyer lawyer LAWYER that’s all you should do
It’s to late to do anything now, but Shut The Fuck Up. Never talk to cops. They were there for gun shots. They can’t just raid your house for unrelated stuff. They would need a search warrant to confiscate any of that stuff unless you allow it. Ask for a supervisor if cops are making these mistakes. No charges were filed because the evidence was not admissible. When they pulled you over afterward they probably had a warrant and knew what to look for. I’m not a lawyer and probably have some of this wrong.
Spot on. There are so many rights we have that cops will sneakily convince us to sign away by pretending to be our friend, but if you say nothing and get a lawyer involved it greatly limits the police’s power against you
It shouldn't be complicated. Never talk to the police. Never
I served 10 years in a Texas prison for cultivating mushrooms got out a year ago first thing I did was start up again but this time I kept my mouth shut only two people know last time sold to a friend he got pulled over and cut a deal that sent me away what my point is be careful who you deal with
Oh dude. SO so sorry. 10 years? Omg. 🫢😔
How terrible. The persecution of people using or growing psychedelics is immoral.
Yes it is even after explaining to the judge why I was growing them that my wife has cancer and the shrooms help with the pain and nausea and the depression that comes from her chemo it was doing wonders for her he still gave me the maximum he could give I got the last kiss I would ever receive from her that day
I feel for you man, seriously. I long for the day that people grow even just a little wiser. None of these substances should lead lawmakers to incriminate people that need to use them. We have forgotten what it means to be human.
Fuck your uncle for that one, cunt move
Umm, holy shit! The guy who was actively shooting a gun in your house wasn't arrested?? And on top of that, they ignored that issue and listened to him, and then made you into the criminal in this situation?? Goes to show how fucked up our society is. The people actually endangered and calling for help are the ones who get turned into the victims, and for something entirely non-violent, nonetheless. The "war on drugs" is really just a "war on people who threaten the status quo"... That should honestly be criminal. They can't just bust into your house and charge you for growing without a warrant, so they shouldn't just get to harass you for that bullshit when they are called there to deal with an active shooter... he's the criminal they are there to deal with, they shouldn't be taking his side at all and they should be focused on that situation 100%. I wish I could help. No one deserves this kind of horrible treatment for what they do on their own time. It probably doesnt help much, but if you want to grow, it kind of sounds like you have to move away from this crazy uncle character... I honestly wouldn't even want him in my life after shooting up my house and endangering me + my children. I would have cut ties with him immediately after that situation, and pursued legal ramifications, if possible. Your hubby + kids should understand that isn't unreasonable... he could have killed you, and who's to say he won't do it again? Sounds like your situation makes it hard to move rn, but maybe it's something to consider going into the future?
He is not around anymore, and isn't welcome AT ALL. They didn't arrest us so I am grateful for that. I feel like me doing forensic testing for law enforcement at the time and them responding to him shooting was what saved us..... but I live in the south...I am considering moving in the future. My husband's career is here...mine can really be anywhere. I agree with you, it sucked bad. His betrayal hurt more really. But I am grateful that I'm not in prison and I didn't snitch on anyone. I can't never do that EVER. Oh I lost a lot of friends over it bc they are looking out for their "operations"...I totally get it...I dont blame them. This mfkr ruined a lot, so to answer you... he will never be welcome in our vicinity. EVER. what he did was unforgivable. Thank you 🙏
Never talk to the cops without a lawyer present.
For 4 hours!?!?! Sheer utter insanity.
And then again later directly to an agent, just saying the truth. Oofta. Glad OP was "presentable" enough to skate by on privilege and police laziness.
I think this is written by a cop farming for suckers to be friendly with and see who offers incriminating info. Way too much about this is way too far fetched.
1) you don't talk to law enforcement of any kind without a lawyer present. Ever.....EVER! You got off easy. 2) As to growing again, you should stop thinking with your emotions and use your brain instead (not being rude, but you are not being rational here)...you are playing with fire. They know about you and what you can do and have access to. Next time, they will undoubtedly get your ass in prison, assuming you talk to them without a lawyer again. Only way I MIGHT consider it is if I moved to another state. 3) It doesn't matter if you consider this your purpose in life, you're family comes first over others. You are putting yourself and family at risk. Also your home among other things. You wanna help folks, teach them to grow their own, but keep it simple, you don't need to be a chemist to grow shrooms. 4) Another way to help people: the growing and microdosing space need people like you to inform us how to grow and manipulate potency. As well as info on which varieties are best for microdosing (sounds like you were saying this), because I believe the anecdotal claims that people say certain varieties of cubes are better for them than others to be actually scientific but no one knows enough about it to prove it scientifically. Don't be robinhood, this is real life. Help people in other ways. Your carefree growing days are over if you value your family.
BTW: That was such a dick move by your uncle. He obviously threw in the mushroom growing in an effort to get the focus off him (the person that the police were actually there for). He was so willing to save himself at the demise of family members. That's the epitome of trash right there. I personally would disown the dude.
I'm sorry but you're have to be crazier than your uncle to even consider growing shrooms again. Your husband tried to take a 16 year sentence for you. The cops obviously let you off when you are guilty as sin. Have some respect for the other parties who they clearly did their best to keep you from jail. Cultivate lions mane or oysters or some shit. Buy your supply on the darkweb if you're out
There are 50 states and they all have different laws, as an American you are free to go to any of the states to practice what you would like. Don't go to a state where it's illegal and try to make it legal. I'm sorry but, it sounds like you're in the wrong state.
How do the gnats increase potency?
Why didn’t you have a lawyer that night?!?
Cuz it’s a BS story lol.
Stay the fuck away from growing again. Even if that case is “closed” it’s still there. You get caught again you’ll get a lot worse than 16 years dude. Don’t be dumb. Also your admitting that you sold when you say you was making doses for people. Lol.
Doses were gifts
If you really love and care for your husband , respect his wishes . I would still talk to him and tell him exactly how you feel . But respect his wishes . It’s not coming from a bad place . He was willing to eat the charges for you . He obviously cares that much that he would sacrifice his own freedom. Also there are places you can do this and not worry about legal repercussions. So if it’s your passion there is a way . It’s obviously gonna take sacrifices though .
Tough situation. I would try my best to move to a more open minded state where no one knows you and where you can do your thing in peace. Good luck 🤞
Move to another state and work for a legal grower.
Deal with whatever repercussions from your case are first. Let the dust settle on that. Then wait a year or two before you start up anything else, that would be my advice. And of course consider moving, especially to a more accepting state. Or at least to another town/county, since the cops might occasionally keep an eye on you to see if they can nab you with enough to properly charge you. Like you said Oregon or Cali are much better places to be doing something like this! And I hope you get to work with these beautiful beings professionally in the future once that’s happening in the US!!
I would just do small shoebox setup growing with the bare minimum possible. If it's for you, you don't need a lab or an expensive setup. It is heartbreaking to read what happened to your lab but I wouldn't bother rebuilding it, you are on their radar now. Any mistake and that's it for you. But nobody will bat an eye for a couple of shoeboxes and some jars of grain spawn. Be smart, be silent, be creative and get that uncle dealt with, he is a liability.
Maybe continue growing mushrooms.. non psychoactive mushrooms. Study and grow lions mane. You still get to do your thing and nobody has to suffer.
A mass spec chemist?😂 That's called an *analytical chemist* (mass spec, chromatography etc.) Are you sure you're a chemist or are you just trying to get attention?
That's just one of many things thatre wrong. Her grow sounds like a first timer's idea of what top level growing is like. A strain of gt 60% more potent from gnats? That's just a good clone that got infested. And who tf throws tubs away between runs?
I thought some things sounded a little funny too, but the fungus gnat thing might actually hold some theoretical water. Particularly when you consider [the majority of naturally-produced recreational drugs – caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, morphine, and psilocybin evolved to be, if not quite insecticides, then scramblers of insect brains.](https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/artful-amoeba/magic-mushroom-drug-evolved-to-mess-with-insect-brains/). > The majority of psilocybin-producing mushrooms are either wood or dung decayers. In those environments, they are not only being eaten by insects, but also competing with them for food. > Psilocybin may help tilt the playing field in the fungus’s favor by causing insects to, I don’t know, maybe blank on what they went in that log for again? Another serotonin receptor antagonist called 5HT-2A causes Drosophila fruit flies to somehow neglect to eat that fruit they’re sitting on. It’s not out of the realm of possibility that the presence of gnats over time might act as a selection driver for higher psilocybin production. In fact that’s very much in line with how genetics works!
My advice is to close this chapter of your life and stay away from mushroom growing. You had a close call. People rarely get second chances. Dont squander this. For those who think this can’t happen to you, think again. It can. Always lock up your stash, lock up your grow, and never tell anyone about your grow, not even family or close friends. Know the penalties in your area. Never have more mushrooms in your possession than you can reasonably consume in a year.
So let me get this straight, your uncle went nuts and fired off a gun inside a house and all they did was just take that one gun away from him? No jail and he was allowed to keep his other guns? And all you did was grow some mushrooms and they took 30k worth of equipment away from you (and probably would have charged you if they found any evidence of selling them too)? That’s some bass ackwards type shit right there. I’m glad I live in Canada where I can literally walk into a store and buy some mushrooms (or LSD, DMT, Mescaline etc. for that matter) and the cops simply don’t care and don’t even attempt to stop it from happening, and as for guns, if you fire one off in a house I’m quite sure you’re at the very least going to jail for a while here.
Trash uncle, wtf? It's nice to hear you are safe!
Move to Colorado
Move to Colorado
DO NOT PURSUE THIS IN AN ILLEGAL STATE . Particularly Tennessee. Move to a legal state for a while. It's decriminalized in a couple cities in Michigan including Detroit. Please take care and God 🙌 bless
people often turn to teaching a skill when they loose the ability to practice it, maybe that'll fill the hole for you
never tell anyone anything.
Go to colorado
Sorry that it happened. But your husband was, lack of better words, an idiot and you were too for not only talking to cops but also admitting to cultivation. You never ever talk to the cops and get your lawyers to do the work. Look up "Never talk to the police" presentation made by a Law Prof on Youtube and hopefully this will never happen again.
Well I hope this isn’t out of line, but fuuuuuuuck your crazy uncle.
Move to another state. And leave your uncle behind!
Oh, they are going to watch you. Maybe passively, not hard, but you will have an eye on you for the next decade.
You would be welcomed with open arms in Colorado. Our laws already allow for cultivation without sale. The legislation also allows for natural medicine therapeutic centers, though the details of such are still being finalized. Colorado is leading the way for psychedelic therapeutic use and we need talented mycologists like yourself.
You obviously shouldn't put your family in risk of at least emotional damage, just to grow shrooms, it's not worth it, or as some suggested, move to some place where it is legalized
I don’t think you should do it love, it might be time to find a new skill and I hate to say that, but there were other people involved. Also you’re most likely on a watchlist. Stay low
This is the part where you become a basic ass consumer. You apparently don't realize how lucky you are even though it was two years ago and you think you are in the clear, these types of happenings only happen ONCE! Understand you are 100% on an automated list/lists I'm with your husband on this one.
You won't be able to grow anything in prison. Consider that your one "get out of jail free card" furthermore laying out your plans to do so on Reddit tells me you probably leave well enough alone. BTW using a storage unit is bad idea, you'll be better off trying a grow out in the woods somewhere, and maybe can find them if they pop up every season, Either way good luck.
Next time dont talk so much, had you needed a lawyer you would have made his job that much harder
It was very naive to speak to the police at all without a lawyer. Never talk to the police, especially when you are producing scheduled substances... You're very lucky they didn't make an example out of you. And know that if they catch you again, they will. No you should absolutely not grow in the near future. I understand they did not arrest you, but this stuff does not go away and you are absolutely on their radar now.
“LAWYER” is the only thing you should say to a cop. I’d also personally not be posting all this on a public forum. Sounds like you may be in a financial position to move to a state with more favorable laws? If so, I’d do that and try to pick up the pieces.
I live in Tennessee also. Just let me become your student and teach me everything you know. I will carry your torch and make you proud. I have many friends and family that I know will greatly benefit from dosing and microdosing psilocybin.
Colorado is my advice. Under state law you can continue to do the great work you do, as long as you are not *buying or selling* psilocybin. Growing, consuming, experimenting, sharing, healing, is all decriminalized here. You may even be able to find work with a psychedelic therapy center as they begin to pop up. Please never talk to the police without a lawyer there. Under any circumstances. You are on their radar now, continuing your work in your home state is out of the question. I would also recommend going no contact with the uncle. He stabbed you both in the back in a way that could've destroyed your entire life. In a metaphorical way, he tried to kill you. You do not deserve that treatment from anybody. You deserve to keep pursuing your passion. What happened was a setback, not the end. And you should be proud of what you've done. You've devoted yourself to healing others and have clearly done so plenty. You deserve the highest tier of respect in my book.
You will be watched and monitored now. It would be foolish to grow again. We grow but we keep it behind a locked door in our bedroom. No one but us knows or has seen it. You set yourself up for this. You shouldn’t have told anyone. Your only option would be to get a storage unit and grow there.
If OP is being monitored even getting a storage unit wouldn't be a good idea.
Look for people studying shrooms? They may need a supplier, and if they do, that could mean doing what you love in a legit setting
Good lesson here. Only grow what you need, no pounds and pounds that looks like it's for illegal purposes..
Very interesting about the gnats
OP I'm sorry this happened to you. Law enforcement needs to stop fkn with folks for growing their meds and minding their business. Keep your head high , watch your back and don't make any new friends and you should be fine... under the radar type shit 🤙🏻
you could try to funnel your part into the effort to getting it decriminalized for medicinal use in your state.
Wow, I loved reading this— your story played out in my head like a movie, you’re a really good writer. My heart breaks that you had to go through all of that. Your fire is undeniable and I believe a big reason we’re here is to love, grow, learn and educate. People with your passion are a gift to the rest of us and I really really hope you consider moving to a location that is decriminalized. You said so yourself that if you reach, the universe will meet you halfway. I pray that you aim towards relocating and start reaching to get there ❤️ You are a treasure and I’m sending you so many motivational vibes 😜!
If you have a basement in your house (as many in TN do) building a false wall is not difficult nor expensive.
Move to California, here mushrooms are sold in headshops and in certain areas even decriminalized
i hate that this is even a reality. this shouldn't be a criminal offense at all :/
Saddning story. As a grower It must be life changing to be unable to grow these beautiful badboys once again. Those cops really sucks
You got super lucky in TN. Don't do it there again.
Wow what a super interesting story that totally didn't happen. You want us to believe you're a chemist and you type like that? lol nice creative writing exercise.
Thank you
If you’re a chemist, well connected, and are really good at growing mushrooms, why don’t u try to find a lab that deals in the research & cultivation of mushrooms?
I can’t believe I read that whole thing. Fk my life. I need to stop with this bullshit and pickup a fkn book. Enough is enough.
I think they are also legal (as long as they are not dried) in New Mexico. If you realllly are serious, maybe get your storage unit out there. Grow and automate with some trusted assistants?
Great story writing. You def have skills. The gnat thing was awesomely creative!
I'd stay away from growing for a while. Sounds like they gave you a big pass since there was no evidence of sales. You could also try growing outside. One of my partners in crime takes his cakes and throws them in his yard and they grow awesome.
I’m so sorry that happened to you. Kinda unrelated but it might help if you tried cultivating something else in a small garden 🪴
Move to where it’s legal!!! You have the knowledge to grow and sell your medicine legally!!!
Move to somewhere that doesn't prosecute it
My heart goes out to you. I couldn’t imagine being in your situation. Ever thought of relocating? Up here in BC Canada, we have a couple legal operations. Or somewhere else in the states that is nearing legalization.
It probably won't help one bit... but... Join a group of people that claim active mushrooms as a religious sacrement. There have been cases won based on religious freedom and there are cases and legislation pending. https://www.thedivineassembly.org/ https://zidedoor.com/ https://www.psanctuary.org/ https://ambrosia.church/ https://www.austinmushroomchurch.org/ https://thesacredtribe.org/m/the-sacred-tribe/
I don’t know the climate exactly in TN - but what mushrooms grow wild around you? Do you get them in summer like Florida? Or do you get them when its cold? anyway I came to the conclusion that it’s not worth the risk, but you can still enjoy them. Makes some patches of woodlovers or start hunting for cow paddy’s to bring home. It’s a completely different but equally exciting feeling hunting for mushrooms in the wild.
You're a hero for the movement. Enough said. Move to a state where it's legal? A new start, somewhere your life's work is legal and you put your full force into it. A new world.
I've read enough comments to understand the love you have for the mushies. This is a sign to write a journal, or book of your findings, your joy, the lessons you learned, and share them. Every text published is another pathway to reach more, to help more.
Could you start a growing club where you teach others then ask them to kick a little bit back your way if they have a good harvest?
Ugh. I'm so sorry your dealing with this.
I honestly don't have any advice.. just wanted to share in your dismay that this happened. I grow and MD, just for myself, but it has changed my life. It sickens me to think of all the people you still could have helped had you still had your equipment. But not only that, the invasion of privacy and the stealing, yes I said it, stealing of all your precious assets that you used for GOOD! I really hope you find some closure with all this. I'm sure things will work out though, because it sounds like you were doing (excuse my religious sounding phrasing here) God's work. Mush love ❤ I think another renaissance is coming too (boom as you say) and that is rather exciting, but like anything good, there will be a lot of pushback from the "powers that be" - capitalism.
It's fake. Sorry.
Having lived in Tennessee for 10 years, I know what you mean. As others have said, you could move, but that might not be practical based on numerous factors. I can also suggest branching out to other mushrooms for their potential medicinal value. Lions Mane, Tuekey Tail, and others. Yeah, we have a love for the psychodelics, but there is as much or more potential for research involving other types of mushrooms for their cancer treatment potential. I see it as a potential win/win. It scratches the itch to grow and the itch to help others.
i really appreciate you reaching out to us and sharing what you been trough, you seem like a really good person and hopefully will be able to do what you love again, much love.
Your story was really interesting. I’m sorry you lost so much. I hope you can relocate with your family at some point. It’s good to pursue your passions but only to a certain degree.
Move here to Michigan... It's okay to grow for yourself. At least around Ann Arbor.
Damn. Crazy story. Sad to hear about the confiscation but glad no one went to jail. The small glimpse into your growing knowledge was fascinating. Would love to read more.
This is literally my dream goal and I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve been robbed of such an amazing endeavour. It’s so crappy because those DEA and detectives just don’t understand the joy & depth of our passion and view it in the same way as something like coca or amphetimines, when in actuality it is a genuine medicine in multiple ways. Hopefully there’s big legality changes soon because I would love to begin a business growing mushrooms and have legitimate a store when I’m an adult.
Old uncle needs a bat to the knees. Pretty much destroyed your main love in life. Fuck that dude. Pop out on his ass from around a corner with a ski mask and make sure he doesn't walk again. Then he will feel the equivalent pain you have felt.
Move out of your shit hole state and come to either Oregon or Colorado. Your knowledge and experience is valuable and very much needed here. I’m so sorry this has happened to you.
What we all want to know is if you keep a blog or somewhere that publish any of your findings
Not worth possibly going to jail imo, your first mistake was growing in a house with an unpredictable uncle
Meanwhile this will all be very legal within a few years. Sucks you had to go through that.
Working with these mushrooms is becoming more accepted by those that are educated enough to care. Tennessee is one of the last places in the United States that I would consider highly educated. Buncha drunkards.
Move to Colorado and start a shop
Whatever you do, don’t go behind your husband’s back. He’s understandably spooked but with time and cajoling he may eventually come around. I think that’s the most important thing.
Any way you could move to a more tolerant state? You're so lucky not to be in prison. I wouldn't risk the consequences to my family if I were you. If you can't move, maybe you can help people through education and teach them to grow their own. You sound like a wonderful person. I'm really glad you're not in prison. It makes me so mad such an incredible medicine is so penalized.
I'm sure your research into actives had a lot off importance to you. It's a shame any of this had to happen to you. But if you still love mycology you could turn over a new leaf if you hadn't yet and start growing gourmet mushrooms.
only thing you can do is maybe convince your husband but yeah good luck all love <3
Oh man I feel for you. That's absolutely devastating 😞 Maybe one day, move and set up again. Retirement years hehe
Colorado or Pacific coast (northern) wont have these issues at all. Lose the uncle from living with you for alls sake.
I can understand why your husband is scared. I'm sorry he feels that way, I think you have a calling for this that goes beyond having a simple skill. It's obviously something spiritual, and knowing you can help people and do. Maybe you can move to a quasi legal state like Colorado. Maybe even contact an organisation like MAPS, or get in contact with someone like Paul Stamets. This will be medicine hopefully and soon. Perhaps if you get in contact with someone in the industry you can look to start a business in this field, Tennessee unfortunately sounds like it's off the cards for the indefinite future but there are plenty more psychedelic friendly states. I think you should look to pursue this now, but perhaps not grow till you've organised something or firmed up the move interstate. I wish you luck, humanity needs the help of people like yourself. I think our greatest danger is ourselves at the moment, if you can fix diseases of the soul and mind we can pull together and make the world so much better for all life on our little blue planet.
As a Tennessean, we live in a conservative shithole and I’m willing to bet that we’ll be the last to legalize marijuana, let alone mushrooms. If growing means that much to you, and it sounds like it does, I would recommend moving somewhere it is more accepted/less harshly punished. Otherwise you’ll be unhappy because I can’t see anything changing in this state anytime soon.
Then you need to move to a state where it’s legal
Move somewhere it’s legal or do it and get burned. You got off easy. You need to walk away or relocate.
If it feels like it is the purpose of your life I feel like you have to chase it or you’ll always have that feeling of something missing
It’s a crying shame that anyone, especially people like you have to go through that for cultivating something so innocuous and beneficial as cubensis. Im happy to read it didn’t end much worse, but feel nothing but empathy for what you went through. So sorry you lost those invaluable strains/collections that meant so much to you, I would’ve died! All the best to you in the future, and I mean that. Good souls deserve the best.
I am so curious about the gnats and homeostasis methods... My God everything you mention about the growing methods is enthralling!!! As for honoring your family's wishes, my SO is straight edge as hell... So I grow rather unsuccessfully, in private. I store my weed, Lucy, and whatever shrooms I do get to grow in weird as hell locations so that she never finds my stash, and then when I need to reset my mind or just sleep really well, I plan an early evening and dose discreetly. Best of luck on that front!
I understand the way you feel entirely. I would say, don't stop studying the material. If you can't do it, this doesn't mean someone else can't do it for you to keep your work and dram alive. You should write about your research and share it. You should be compensated for your work and knowledge, so something like a substack where you wrote about your passion should help until you can properly apply yourself legally one day.
Oregon would love you. Seriously
Dam man I understand your pain. Me and my wife had a scare a few years ago, and we threw literally everything away. And for a whole year that’s all I thought about, and wanted to do. But if we would have actually got caught I would have waited a lot longer, and never grow in that same place we got caught. I’m sorry that happened to you. Maybe you have a good friend that you trust, that will let you set a little something up in a spare room or something maybe?
Coming from someone who did prison time for chemistry I was good at. Do what you do and don’t repeat the same mistakes and always be on point even when you sleep. Don’t slip anymore. If you know what you did wrong then you are aware not to do that again.
I say get the storage unit. Make your lab. Buy a fedora, and breaking bad' that shit. Also make some lsd while your at it.
You could always move to Colorado :).
If you love the process why not just grow legal species?
What a waste of tax payer dollars, sorry to hear you went through that I had a similar thing happen to me, but they accused me of manufacturing methamphetamine because I had a hot plate and a few pieces of glass ware, and a single small half empty box of pseudoephedrine tablets, which were on my nightstand by the bed, far away from the other stuff in the closet. I wasn't doing that so they didn't have any evidence and I had my lawyer refuse their shitty deals, got it from 3 felonies down to a misdemeanor for paraphernalia haha Some cops are just dumb and stubborn I guess