Simeon Schnapper is a psychedelic philanthropist, futurist, and managing partner of JLS Fund, formed to aid investment in the booming intersection of science, technology, and neurology investigating the use of plant-based and psychedelic medicines to heal illness and enhance wellness.
Simeon initially found his way into a burgeoning career in the world of the performing arts, becoming a staple of the Chicago theater and improv scene, and even releasing a feature film, Dot, as a star-writer-producer-director in 2002. He taught thousands of students in his time spent as a faculty member of the Second City Conservatory.
That list of achievements would be more than enough for most people, but Simeon was slowly drawn away from the arts in favor of work in the world of tech and business. He founded Youtopia, a highly successful engagement platform, as well as the world’s first Visionary Art Gallery and Medical Marijuana Dispensary, and co-founded The Family Office Funding Challenge. He even spent time as President of The Hinman Foundation, a nonprofit focused on providing grants to community-based organizations.
Today, he works for the JLS fund, where their focus is on the development of drugs, as well as the technology and tools that can accelerate and enhance the delivery and use of their therapies.
We start off by discussing Simeon’s upbringing after being born to Peace Corp parents which set his early life up as a constant discovery and exploration across different countries and cultures. With that diverse foundation, a personal ethos of exploration and helping those in need became deeply ingrained in his belief system.
He had experiences with the world of magic and mysticism from an early age, that stood to shape his view of the limitations of our scientific understanding and what may be out there for those with an open mind.
We also discuss the world of psychedelics and plant-based medicines, as well as how the associated social landscape has changed. It’s still a volatile subject, politically; Simeon weighs in on the stigma and stability of the industry, as well as where anyone interested in the benefits of psychedelics can start their own journey to enlightenment.
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