When not in the field, Justin is a well respected key note speaker and master of ceremonies who hosts regular academic lectures at a number of prestigious institutions. Justin brings his infectious charisma to everything from inspirational speeches to obscure historic topics. For booking information contact fornallabs@gmail.com
Exploration: The Importance of the Physical Quest in a virtual world (TEDX video)
Justin explains how unplugging and being present is the perfect means to experience the world we live in.
Aphrodisiacs: The Good, the Bad and the Nearly Extinct
The lecture focuses on the history of humans employing plant and animal products as attraction activators and sexual performance enhancers. His talk will also include a special focus on the trade of rare animal parts and the global impact it has on endangered animals.
"One of the most interesting lectures we have ever had." the Bruce Museum
Talismans and Tinctures
Justin walks us through his collection of botanical and zoological curios gathered while studying different traditional spiritual groups around the world and breaks down how these different items are utilized for both good and evil purposes. He will focus on the talismans used in Haitian Vodou, Tanzanian Mwchawi, Cuban Santeria, Hoodoo, Powwow, Apache Medicine, Al Bidr and many others.
A History of Tea in 12 Cups
In this lecture, Justin offers up his twelve favorite teas and the storied histories behind them. Guests will be invited to drink green matcha, learn how to grade a Darjeeling, age a Pu’er, and smoke a Lapsang Souchong within the framework of a Victorian High Tea party.
A History of Pipe Smoking
As President of the Bronx Pipe Smoking Society, Justin will speak about the history of pipes and pipe smoking including Native American caluments made from sacred pipestone, Turkish meerschaum pipes, Italian briar pipes, and Victorian-inspired taxidermy pipes.
Forgotten Fabric: Re-examining Ancient Indigenous Luxuries
Justin recently embarked on a series of National Geographic showcased expeditions around the globe to track down vanishing textiles made from natural fibers and dyes. He has collected samples and stories of everything from Ugandan bark cloth to Oaxacan fabric that is dyed purple using live snails.
Sacred Beverages
Justin presents a journey through the world of ancient and contemporary sacred beverages. This lecture discusses the rich heritage surrounding Xocolatl (Aztec chocolate), Ayahuasca, Café Touba, Soma, Peyōtl (peyote tea), and many others. Guests will learn how different cultures sanctify ordinary liquids through the use of elaborate rituals and mystical drinking vessels. The Ethiopian Coffee, Japanese Tea, and Native American Black Drink ceremonies are broken down to their ancient roots.
