Ep 26: Tara's Triumph: Conquering Pain and Depression with Kratom

In this episode of Kratom Stories, Madalyn talks to Dr. Mike, a primary care provider who also treats chronic pain and happens to be a pain patient himself. He's gained an impressive following on TikTok for his candid discussions about pain management and patient advocacy. Dr. Mike shares his personal experience with chronic pain and how it transformed his approach to treating others. He sheds light on the challenges patients face, including dismissive medical professionals and limited access to effective pain relief options, particularly opioid medications. He's even written a brand new book, You Are More, that helps patients advocate for their health. Discovering Kratom through his online community, Dr. Mike reveals his positive experience with the plant, advocating for responsible use and sourcing from quality vendors. While he encourages the exploration of Kratom as a potential alternative for pain management, he advises against mixing it with prescribed pain medications. He stresses the need for medical professionals to be better informed about Kratom so they can educate their patients and provide alternative solutions for pain relief, especially as access to opioid medications becomes increasingly restricted.  Related Links You Are More - order Dr. Mike's new book Dr. Mike tried Kratom from New Hope Botanicals. (10% off with code: KratomStories) Jordan Richard, New Hope Botanicals - TikTok Dr. Mike's TikTok videos talking about Kratom - video 1, video 2, video 3, video 4 Connect with Dr. Mike: TikTok, Facebook, YouTube Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories Follow us on social media KratomStories.com Twitter TikTok YouTube Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter!  Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com New Livestream Series! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals where we review videos talking about Kratom and then react, sharing our personal experiences. Join Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, our new online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. Join the conversation. Ask questions. Help answer questions. It's for newbies as well as seasoned Kratom consumers. Weekly Live Audio Chat Join us every Thursday on Twitter/X for our Kratom Support Group. It's a live audio chat. Everyone is welcome! Support the Podcast! If you love this podcast, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! It helps us with the cost of running the podcast. Thank you! Please note: The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and unique to the guest. Kratom, while featured prominently in these stories, is a botanical substance that is unregulated in the U.S. and various countries around the world. The Kratom Stories Podcast and its host, Madalyn Sklar, do not endorse, promote, or encourage the use of Kratom. We simply aim to shed light on personal experiences and narratives related to this plant. If you're considering using Kratom, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice, conduct thorough research, and comply with all local laws and guidelines.

17 Maj 202438min

Despite years of scrutiny, recent FDA studies have now acknowledged that dried leaf Kratom is well tolerated in humans. This pivotal update was discussed recently in Etha Natural Botanicals’ "Live Fully with Kratom" podcast, and I'm thrilled to share this episode with you here on Kratom Stories. You'll hear Etha’s co-founder, Alexander, and head of customer service, Amanda, as they dive into the significant outcome of the FDA's Kratom study presented at a recent symposium. They underscore the critical role of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) in enforcing FDA transparency and ensuring safer consumer practices. To stay updated and well-informed on Kratom, consider following trustworthy organizations such as the American Kratom Association and the Global Kratom Coalition. It's a great way to learn the always-evolving landscape of Kratom research and advocacy. Related Links Etha Botanicals Live Fully with Kratom podcast American Kratom Association Protect Kratom FDA Study on Kratom Dosing and Safety Kratom State Legality and Legislation (United States) Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: madalyn10 Follow us on social media KratomStories.com Twitter TikTok YouTube Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter!  Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com New Livestream Series! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals where we review videos talking about Kratom and then react, sharing our personal experiences. Join Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, our new online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. Join the conversation. Ask questions. Help answer questions. It's for newbies as well as seasoned Kratom consumers. Weekly Live Audio Chat Join us every Thursday on Twitter/X for our Kratom Support Group. It's a live audio chat. Everyone is welcome! Support the Podcast! If you love this podcast, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! It helps us with the cost of running the podcast. Thank you! Please note: The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and unique to the guest. Kratom, while featured prominently in these stories, is a botanical substance that is unregulated in the U.S. and various countries around the world. The Kratom Stories Podcast and its host, Madalyn Sklar, do not endorse, promote, or encourage the use of Kratom. We simply aim to shed light on personal experiences and narratives related to this plant. If you're considering using Kratom, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice, conduct thorough research, and comply with all local laws and guidelines.

3 Maj 202432min

In this insightful episode, we dive into the transformative impact of Kratom on Alexander Karp's life—an engineer turned Kratom advocate and entrepreneur. As co-founder of ETHA Natural Botanicals, Karp shares his journey from experiencing chronic back pain to finding substantial relief through Kratom. This led him down a path of deep curiosity about the plant, eventually motivating him to start his own Kratom company. Alexander discusses the entrepreneurial and scientific aspects of creating a trustworthy Kratom brand, emphasizing consumer education and product consistency. Through his story, Alexander shares insight into the complexities of bringing a misunderstood botanical like Kratom into wider public acceptance and use, making a compelling case for the plant's benefits when responsibly used. This episode encourages deeper exploration, understanding, and ongoing dialogue about Kratom both within the community and the wider public. Related Links Etha Natural Botanicals - as you'll see below, it's one of my favorite and most trusted vendors. I've been consuming this brand for several years. Eager to try the Kratom Mints that Alexander talks about in this episode? Use coupon code KratomStories for 25% off anything in the store. Live fully with Kratom podcast from Etha Botanicals. Be sure to listen to this episode with Alexander: FDA Dosing Study Reveals Kratom is Safe Video about Etha tablets (tap here to see Alexander make one!) Kratom Stories Ep 23: Transforming Lives with Victor Chung of ETHA Botanicals (Episode with Alexander's co-founder) Connect with Alexander: LinkedIn Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: madalyn10 Follow us on social media KratomStories.com Twitter TikTok YouTube Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter!  Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com New Livestream Series! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals where we review videos talking about Kratom and then react, sharing our personal experiences. Join Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, our new online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. Join the conversation. Ask questions. Help answer questions. It's for newbies as well as seasoned Kratom consumers. Weekly Live Audio Chat Join us every Thursday on Twitter/X for our Kratom Support Group. It's a live audio chat. Everyone is welcome! Support the Podcast! If you love this podcast, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! It helps us with the cost of running the podcast. Thank you! Please note: The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and unique to the guest. Kratom, while featured prominently in these stories, is a botanical substance that is unregulated in the U.S. and various countries around the world. The Kratom Stories Podcast and its host, Madalyn Sklar, do not endorse, promote, or encourage the use of Kratom. We simply aim to shed light on personal experiences and narratives related to this plant. If you're considering using Kratom, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice, conduct thorough research, and comply with all local laws and guidelines.

26 Apr 20241h 7min

In this riveting conversation with Victor Chung, co-founder and CEO of ETHA Botanicals, we learn he is deeply rooted in compassion and a desire to make a difference in the world. On a mission to solve his chronic pain, Victor's journey into the heart of the Kratom industry uncovers not just personal healing but also groundbreaking innovation. ETHA Botanicals emerges through his quest, to redefine quality, consistency, and the customer experience in the Kratom market. This episode doesn't just tell a story; it invites you into the world of a visionary entrepreneur who uses his personal struggles to fuel a movement toward better, more reliable Kratom products. Whether you're a longtime Kratom user or newly curious, Victor's insights and innovations offer something for everyone to learn and be inspired by. Join us as we explore the transformative power of Kratom and the man who's set on changing how we think about this botanical. Related Links Etha Botanicals Live Fully with Kratom - Etha's weekly podcast A Leaf of Faith documentary Mind Bullet Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: madalyn10 Follow us on social media KratomStories.com Twitter TikTok YouTube Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter!  Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com New Livestream Series! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals where we review videos talking about Kratom and then react, sharing our personal experiences. Join Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, our new online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. Join the conversation. Ask questions. Help answer questions. It's for newbies as well as seasoned Kratom consumers. Weekly Live Audio Chat Join us every Thursday on Twitter/X for our Kratom Support Group. It's a live audio chat. Everyone is welcome! Support the Podcast! If you love this podcast, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! It helps us with the cost of running the podcast. Thank you! Please note: The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and unique to the guest. Kratom, while featured prominently in these stories, is a botanical substance that is unregulated in the U.S. and various countries around the world. The Kratom Stories Podcast and its host, Madalyn Sklar, do not endorse, promote, or encourage the use of Kratom. We simply aim to shed light on personal experiences and narratives related to this plant. If you're considering using Kratom, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice, conduct thorough research, and comply with all local laws and guidelines.

19 Apr 202446min

In this compelling episode, Amanda Schuchardt, a chronic pain advocate and avid storyteller on TikTok, shares her transformative journey with Kratom. As someone who has grappled with the debilitating effects of chronic pain and the challenges of traditional pain management, Amanda provides an insightful look into how this plant has offered her not just physical relief but mental peace as well. Her candid discussion highlights the critical role of Kratom in her life, especially after navigating the daunting world of being polyprescribed medications and the subsequent decision to seek out natural alternatives for managing her conditions. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of chronic pain advocacy and the potential of Kratom as a powerful ally. Amanda's journey from the depths of despair to finding solace through Kratom sheds light on the personal battles many face and serves as a beacon of hope and a call to better understand this plant. It's a must-listen for anyone navigating the tangled web of chronic pain, seeking alternatives, or simply looking to be inspired by a story of resilience and advocacy. Related Links A Leaf of Faith documentary Blate Papes - the best way to take powders Happy Hippo - 15% off, no code needed Akuamma from Happy Hippo The Benefits of Akuamma Etha Botanicals - (where Madalyn gets her Kratom powder and tablets) 25% off storewide with code: KratomStories Etha's Podcast - Live Fully with Kratom - be sure to listen to this recent episode, FDA Dosing Study Reveals Kratom is Safe List of Madalyn's Vendors Video: 5 Ways to Take Kratom (includes toss & wash and swamp water tea) Connect with Amanda: TikTok, Instagram Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: madalyn10 Follow us on social media KratomStories.com Twitter TikTok YouTube Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter!  Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com New Livestream Series! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals where we review videos talking about Kratom and then react, sharing our personal experiences. Join Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, our new online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. Join the conversation. Ask questions. Help answer questions. It's for newbies as well as seasoned Kratom consumers. Weekly Live Audio Chat Join us every Thursday on Twitter/X for our Kratom Support Group. It's a live audio chat. Everyone is welcome! Support the Podcast! If you love this podcast, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! It helps us with the cost of running the podcast. Thank you! Please note: The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and unique to the guest. Kratom, while featured prominently in these stories, is a botanical substance that is unregulated in the U.S. and various countries around the world. The Kratom Stories Podcast and its host, Madalyn Sklar, do not endorse, promote, or encourage the use of Kratom. We simply aim to shed light on personal experiences and narratives related to this plant. If you're considering using Kratom, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice, conduct thorough research, and comply with all local laws and guidelines.

12 Apr 202458min

We dive into the transformative journey of Jennifer VanBlunk, a long-time Kratom user whose life was drastically changed by this botanical wonder. Jennifer shares her compelling story, from the depths of prescription opioid dependence following a severe injury in the military to discovering Kratom for recovery and pain management. With nearly a decade of experience, she highlights how Kratom, and later microdosing of mushrooms, played pivotal roles in her emotional and physical healing, emphasizing the personal and individual nature of its use. Jennifer’s experience not only underscores the potential for this plant to aid in opioid recovery but also challenges the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding its use. As a passionate advocate for Kratom and natural alternatives, her story is a powerful testament to the plant's impact and a call to action for more open discussions about its benefits and responsible use. This episode promises to enlighten listeners on the complexities of addiction, the journey toward self-discovery and healing, and the profound ways in which Kratom can alter lives for the better. Jennifer’s unfiltered honesty and perspective shed light on the need for greater understanding and research into Kratom’s therapeutic possibilities, advocating for its role in offering a dignified path to recovery and wellness. Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: madalyn10 Follow us on social media KratomStories.com Twitter TikTok YouTube Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter!  Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com New Livestream Series! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals where we review videos talking about Kratom and then react, sharing our personal experiences. Join Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, our new online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. Join the conversation. Ask questions. Help answer questions. It's for newbies as well as seasoned Kratom consumers. Weekly Live Audio Chat Join us every Thursday on Twitter/X for our Kratom Support Group. It's a live audio chat. Everyone is welcome! Support the Podcast! If you love this podcast, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! It helps us with the cost of running the podcast. Thank you! Please note: The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and unique to the guest. Kratom, while featured prominently in these stories, is a botanical substance that is unregulated in the U.S. and various countries around the world. The Kratom Stories Podcast and its host, Madalyn Sklar, do not endorse, promote, or encourage the use of Kratom. We simply aim to shed light on personal experiences and narratives related to this plant. If you're considering using Kratom, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice, conduct thorough research, and comply with all local laws and guidelines.

5 Apr 202443min

In this heartfelt episode, we dive deep into the transformative journey of Twinkle VanFleet, a chronic pain warrior and passionate Kratom advocate. She shares the gripping narrative of how Kratom became her lifeline, offering solace from a life once dominated by unbearable pain, pharmaceuticals, alcohol dependence, and the brink of despair. Twinkle's discovery of Kratom marked a turning point, leading her to a life of advocacy, aiming to spread hope to others grappling with similar tribulations. This story illustrates a profound transition from a world of medications and treatments that often fell short, to finding solace through this natural alternative. Twinkle emphasizes Kratom's role in significantly reducing her dependency on alcohol and pharmaceuticals while managing the symptoms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and major depressive disorder. Her narrative underscores not only the personal redemption found in this plant but also the critical importance of perseverance in unlocking its potential benefits. Related Links Connect with Twinkle: Twitter/X, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, website Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: madalyn10 Follow us on social media KratomStories.com Twitter TikTok YouTube Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter!  Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com New Livestream Series! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals where we review videos talking about Kratom and then react, sharing our personal experiences. Join Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, our new online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. Join the conversation. Ask questions. Help answer questions. It's for newbies as well as seasoned Kratom consumers. Weekly Live Audio Chat Join us every Thursday on Twitter/X for our Kratom Support Group. It's a live audio chat. Everyone is welcome! Support the Podcast! If you love this podcast, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! It helps us with the cost of running the podcast. Thank you! Please note: The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and unique to the guest. Kratom, while featured prominently in these stories, is a botanical substance that is unregulated in the U.S. and various countries around the world. The Kratom Stories Podcast and its host, Madalyn Sklar, do not endorse, promote, or encourage the use of Kratom. We simply aim to shed light on personal experiences and narratives related to this plant. If you're considering using Kratom, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice, conduct thorough research, and comply with all local laws and guidelines.

29 Mars 202446min