Episode 53

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Published on:

3rd Dec 2024

053: From Near-Death to New Beginnings: Plant Medicine and Spiritual Healing in Peru with Roberto Laurens

In today's fast-paced world, rest is often mistaken for simply lying on a beach with a cocktail in hand. But what if rest could mean something deeper, a true rejuvenation that touches the soul, leaving you transformed? This question finds its answer in the story of Roberto Laurens, owner of Pacha Munay Retreat Center in Peru.

Roberto Laurens’ journey is anything but conventional. Born in Colombia, he moved to Massachusetts and embarked on a life filled with spiritual exploration and entrepreneurship. Following a significant health crisis and profound spiritual experiences, Roberto found himself at a crossroads that led him to the heart of Peru.


It was a series of synchronicities—the calling of Peru that Roberto could not ignore. Post-surgery, seeking healing, he found himself in the jungles of the Amazon managing an ayahuasca retreat center. Here, Roberto learned invaluable lessons on the benefits and pitfalls of plant medicine, highlighting the importance of integration over the mere experience of spiritual highs.


In a world obsessed with bucket lists and itineraries, Roberto emphasizes the balance between exploration and inner work. The retreat nurtures this balance, encouraging guests to view travel not as an escape but as a profound opportunity for personal development.


When you next plan your travels, consider the potential for transformation that lies beyond sightseeing. Embrace the opportunity to rest, rejuvenate, and return home with a newfound clarity and sense of purpose.


We talk about:

  • 00:00 Intro
  • 02:46 Roberto Laurens’ Healing Journey
  • 05:12 Two Truths and a Lie: Travel Edition
  • 06:04 The Island of the Moon Adventure
  • 11:37 Understanding Plant Medicine
  • 13:17 From Atheism to Spiritual Awakening
  • 22:50 A Near-Death Experience and Moving to Peru
  • 27:27 Running an Ayahuasca Retreat Center
  • 34:21 Passion for Food and Hospitality
  • 35:40 Creating a Healing Space in the Sacred Valley
  • 36:33 Entrepreneurial Journey in Peru
  • 40:58 Detox and Clarity in Thailand
  • 43:42 Pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago
  • 46:05 Founding a Retreat Center in Peru
  • 53:07 Personal Growth and Spiritual Practices


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About the Podcast

Transform With Travel: Trip Planning Made Easy For Busy Professionals Craving Bucket List Adventures
Are you sitting behind your desk craving an adventure to make you feel alive again? But with thousands of travel options out there, where do you begin?

Transform With Travel is designed for busy professionals who want more bucket lists trips that reignite adventure, go beneath the surface and feel unique to you WITHOUT the overwhelm of planning, the endless midnight scroll and the crowded tourist traps.

About your host

Profile picture for Kelly Tolliday

Kelly Tolliday

Kelly is the Founder of Transform With Travel, with over 11 years in the travel industry. She's a Wellness Travel Expert, Retreat Facilitator, Travel Advisor & Podcast Host.

She's also a 500-Hr Registered Yoga Teacher & an Accredited Continued Education Provider for the Yoga Industry.

She's traveled to over 45 countries and lived across 4 continents. Now, it's her mission to inspire and support you in stepping outside of your comfort zone and into the life of your dreams.

She's passionate about immersive and transformational travel. She believe when you travel with intention, by combining wellness, adventure & cultural enrichment, you can truly transform your life, one trip at a time.

She's now based in South Florida, and she's married to her husband Sam with 2 beautiful daughters & 2 crazy dogs.