I've never grown them myself. I don't think that I can create a sterile enough environment here plus I only mini-dose a few times per year so its better to buy an ounce and vacuseal them in ⅛ oz bags. That lasts me a few years.
I had a buddy in the late 70s early 80s who was the first person I knew about growing them.
It looks like tech has improved a lot and they are easier to grow. There's lots of sites that discuss strain cultivation and which areceasier to cultivate.
As for effects, do your research. Some varieties are more visual, some more spiritual, some funnier, some philosophical.... new strains emerge all the time.
Then there are spores. What is available at the time where you live? Here, spores and mycelia are legal but growing them is a crime..... even so, sometimes its difficult to find them.
Good luck!