I too am a GVG fella...
So, here's my method:
First, I stack 6 screens down in the bowl (below the ceramic top)
Second, I place a bed of CBD flower on there (I just don't want to clean the damn thing really)
Third, I place my crystal on top of the bed of flower
Fourth, the ceramic top goes on
THEN, it's time to torch it
I, personally, torch the side of the top -- not hitting the ceramic INSIDE the top, but just touching the side of the top with the flame (if this doesn't make sense, I could try drawing it out)
I find that this allows the heat to vape the DMT but definitely doesn't burn it.
Also, my hits are slow and long, so I'm not racing to vape as much as possible -- patience, for me, is key.
"Just when the caterpillar thought her life was over, she began to fly."