Stanley Cup Champion Daniel Carcillo on Life After Concussions and Finding Healing

From NHL enforcer to mental health advocate: Daniel Carcillo’s story is as raw as it is redemptive. After a career defined by fights, concussions, and two Stanley Cups, Daniel found himself battling depression, dementia-like symptoms, and suicidal thoughts. His turning point came through an unexpected path: psychedelics. “This medicine didn’t just ease my symptoms. It gave me back my brain, my purpose, and my relationships.” In this conversation, Daniel shares how psilocybin and intentional healing practices helped him regain his health, rebuild his relationships, and create Experience Onward, a groundbreaking program offering safe, regulated access to psychedelic therapy. He opens up about the hard truths of hockey culture, the cost of repeated brain trauma, and the hope that comes from rewiring both the brain and the spirit. Follow Daniel’s work on Instagram @DanielCarcillo13 and learn more at ExperienceOnward.com Episode Takeaways What it meant to be an NHL “enforcer” — and the personal cost Daniel paid with over 1,200 penalty minutes and multiple concussions. The hidden toll of repeated brain trauma and why so many concussions go undiagnosed. Daniel’s turning point: losing a close friend, becoming a father, and facing his own brain health crisis. Why Daniel says one psilocybin experience gave him more healing in four hours than years of therapy and costly treatments combined. The science behind psychedelics: neuroplasticity, trauma processing, and why FDA trials are taking it seriously. Why safe, regulated access matters — and how Experience Onward is pioneering a new model of care. Daniel’s personal mission: helping others move beyond survival into true healing.