EPISODE 13: PRINCE STASH – 1960’s libertine counterculture figure turned tantric alchemist INSTA influencer

“The Most Interesting Man In The World” from the Dos Equis commercials has nothing on this guy! A feature in the Guardian described his life as a "rock 'n'roll fairytale full of worldly quests and romances", but even that may not do him justice. In the 1960’s, Prince Stash (née Stanislas Klossowski De Rola, aristocratic son of the renowned painter Balthus) figured prominently as a twenty-something musician/socialite/gadabout in Europe’s eclectic counterculture scene. He played percussion on Beatles records, was pranked by Edith Piaf, introduced Anita Pallenberg to Brian Jones, dated Catherine Deneuve's sister Françoise Dorléac, was also linked to Nico and Marianne Faithful, dropped acid with Pink Floyd, was involved in two different drug busts with members of the Rolling Stones, bailed out by Keith Moon and taken in by Paul McCartney. Stash's youthful libertine ways transmuted over time into a more expansive exploration and mastery of Tantra, and his interest in Alchemy flourished from curiosity into significant literary contribution to the ancient esoteric tradition. Now in his 80’s, Stash lives in a Castle in Italy, and has recently become an INSTAGRAM influencer with a massive following. He is full of wit and old-world charm, his opinions blend wisdom with controversial mischief, and his writings are provocative verging on scandalous. It was a wild ride talking to this entertaining and generous soul! Follow him on Substack and INSTA, both under “Prince Stash”.