Longevity entrepreneur Bryan Johnson recently livestreamed himself consuming a high dose of psychedelic mushrooms, sparking debate about the intersection of biohacking, performance, and altered states of consciousness. The event, broadcast on X (formerly Twitter), was part of Johnson’s self-funded study into whether psilocybin can enhance wellness biomarkers, ranging from brain activity to testosterone levels.
The Experiment: Metrics and Spectacle
Johnson meticulously tracked his physiological responses before, during, and after the trip using advanced neuroimaging technology ($50,000 helmet) and biological samples. He consumed over five grams of powdered mushrooms, documenting the experience for over five and a half hours to an audience exceeding 1.1 million viewers. The livestream included appearances by Johnson’s son, journalist Ashlee Vance, DJ Grimes, and Salesforce CEO Mark Benioff.
Concerns Over Method and Motives
Experts caution that the performative nature of the livestream may undermine the introspective benefits typically associated with psychedelics. Rayyan Zafar of Imperial College London argues the setup prioritizes ego enrichment over ego dissolution, characteristic of Johnson’s broader self-promotion. Jamie Wheal called the event “a circus of self-indulgence” and “digital narcissism.”
Potential for Destigmatization and Commercialization
Despite the criticism, some argue the livestream could reduce stigma around psychedelic use by demystifying the experience. Journalist Hamilton Morris noted its potential for education, while others suggest the event’s real impact may be commercial, with Johnson’s longevity supplement brand likely to benefit from increased attention.
Broader Trends: Psychedelics, Politics, and Profit
Johnson’s experiment comes amid growing research into psychedelics for mental health treatment, but also increasing influence from right-wing figures in the field. Billionaire Mark Benioff, a Trump supporter, discussed longevity with podcast host David Friedberg during the broadcast, hinting at potential sponsorship opportunities. The event raises questions about the commercialization of psychedelics and the ethical implications of blending scientific inquiry with self-promotion.
The livestream concluded with Grimes playing a DJ set, as Johnson described the experience as “challenging” but ultimately respectful. The broader implications remain to be seen, but the event marks a new frontier in celebrity biohacking: one where altered states are not just experienced, but broadcast live to the world.
