Ep 35: Finding Freedom with Kratom: Mike Felicetta's Path to Recovery

Join Madalyn Sklar and her fellow Kratom Gals—Misty Brown, Jennifer Gillis, and Venus Usher—for a special episode where they share their personal journeys with Kratom and its profound impact on their lives. From overcoming chronic pain to breaking free from addiction, these women found life-changing relief through the power of this botanical wonder. They dive into the origins of their advocacy, highlighting the importance of sharing their stories and fighting for the plant's safety and legality. Discover how their individual experiences led them to become passionate advocates and how they ultimately connected on social media through their shared mission to educate others about Kratom. Learn about their involvement with the American Kratom Association and other advocacy initiatives and how they came together to form The Kratom Gals, a powerful force in the Kratom community.   Get ready for heartwarming stories of resilience, inspiration, and hope as these women share their insights and empower listeners to embrace their own advocacy journey.  -RELATED LINKS - Episode 1: My Kratom Story: How a Plant Transformed My Pain to Power Episode 2: Embracing Kratom: Misty Brown's Journey from Addiction to Advocacy Episode 3: Jennifer Gillis' Journey: From Despair to Relief with Kratom in Her Battle Against Chronic Pain Episode 32: Finding Hope and Healing with Kratom: Venus Usher's Story A Leaf of Faith documentary American Kratom Association Get involved in Kratom advocacy The Kratom Guy Show - podcast  Kratom Science - podcast and blog Marshall Price's story Shaina Brown's story Full show notes for this episode at KratomStoriesPodcast.com/43 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook X (Twitter) STAY CONNECTED with us by subscribing to our newsletter! Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com WATCH THE KRATOM GALS LIVESTREAM! Check out our YouTube series called The Kratom Gals, where we review videos about Kratom and then react and share our personal experiences. JOIN KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. If you love our content and community, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! This helps us with the cost of running the podcast, livestreams, and forum. 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.

13 Sep 202450min

In this week's episode of Kratom Stories, Madalyn Sklar takes a seat on the other side of the microphone, sharing her personal Kratom journey with advocate/activist Misty Brown. She dives into living with chronic pain, starting with a herniated disc in 2006 that, over time, evolved into daily struggles with degenerative disc disease. Madalyn recounts the anxiety of being abruptly dropped by her pain management doctor in 2019 and facing a steep taper, a looming fear of withdrawal, and unmanageable pain. This life-altering event led her to Kratom, an experience she describes as a life-saving journey. Madalyn details her trial-and-error process of discovering her ideal Kratom strain and routine. She emphasizes the importance of journaling and staying hydrated, encouraging listeners not to give up if they don't find relief immediately. This episode also addresses the pressing issue of Kratom advocacy, with Madalyn sharing her experiences and also highlighting organizations like the American Kratom Association as resources for those seeking to make a difference.  This story illustrates the transformative effects Kratom can have for those living with chronic pain. From transitioning off of opioids to finding a sense of control over her well-being, Madalyn's journey serves as both inspiration and guidance for others struggling with pain and seeking alternatives.  - RELATED LINKS - Episode 1: My Kratom Story: How a Plant Transformed My Pain to Power Episode 2: Embracing Kratom: Misty Brown's Journey from Addiction to Advocacy Anne Fuqua article: Could CDC Guidelines Be Driving Some Opioid Patients to Suicide? Anne Fuqua article: The other opioid crisis: pain patients who can’t access the medicine we need Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME) A Leaf of Faith documentary Kratom Real Talk - forum Full show notes for this episode at https://www.kratomstoriespodcast.com/42 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook Twitter STAY CONNECTED with us by subscribing to our newsletter! Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com WATCH THE KRATOM GALS LIVESTREAM! Check out our YouTube series called The Kratom Gals, where we review videos about Kratom and then react and share our personal experiences. JOIN KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. If you love our content and community, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! This helps us with the cost of running the podcast, livestreams, and forum. 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.

6 Sep 202459min

Utah resident Lora Romney shares her inspiring journey with Kratom. Diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia, one of the most painful conditions known to humans, she endured years of misdiagnosis and countless medications before finding relief with Kratom. After exhausting all conventional treatments, including surgery and pain management, Lora was hesitant to try Kratom, but the encouragement of a friend convinced her to give it a shot. The results were transformative. She experienced significant pain reduction, allowing her to dramatically decrease her opioid reliance and regain control over her life. Lora's journey led her to become an advocate for Kratom. She actively supported the passage of Utah's medical cannabis initiative, even though she doesn't use it herself. This experience gave her the courage to dive into Kratom advocacy, bringing her personal story and knowledge of Kratom to legislative hearings and helping to raise awareness and understanding of the plant's impact on her life. Lora emphasizes the importance of education and normalization, encouraging others to be active in the Kratom community and share their stories. Her message resonates deeply with anyone struggling with chronic pain, addiction, or anxiety, highlighting Kratom's role as a tool for regaining control and improving quality of life.  -RELATED LINKS - Laura's video testimonial - AKA YouTube channel KCPA (Kratom Consumer Protection Act) in Utah Learn more about Kratom advocacy American Kratom Association KratomAnswers.org GMP qualified vendors - AKA Madalyn's list of vendors 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook Twitter STAY CONNECTED with us by subscribing to our newsletter! Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com WATCH THE KRATOM GALS LIVESTREAM! Check out our YouTube series called The Kratom Gals, where we review videos about Kratom and then react and share our personal experiences. JOIN KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. If you love our content and community, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! This helps us with the cost of running the podcast, livestreams, and forum. 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.

30 Aug 202453min

This episode includes some strong language. If four-letter words aren't your thing, you might want to skip this one. But if you're cool with it, let's dive in. This week on Kratom Stories, Madalyn Sklar interviews John Shinholser, a leading voice in the recovery community who's experienced a powerful transformation through his own journey with Kratom. For decades, John has dedicated his life to aiding individuals recovering from substance abuse, founding the McShin Foundation, a peer-run recovery community center in Richmond, Virginia. However, his perspective shifted when he started noticing the positive impact Kratom had on individuals in his care, helping them manage various challenges without compromising their recovery. John shares his eye-opening story of conducting a "survey" with 30 opioid addicts, providing them controlled access to Kratom for a week to assess its effectiveness in aiding detoxification. This bold experiment showcased the plant's potential as a harm reduction strategy, leaving John convinced of its value. He passionately advocates for greater understanding and acceptance of Kratom within the recovery community, battling against misinformation and harmful stereotypes surrounding the plant. He argues that Kratom has the potential to revolutionize recovery by offering a plant-based alternative to traditional treatment methods. Listen to John's insightful perspective on the future of harm reduction and plant-based recovery in this compelling episode. -RELATED LINKS - McShin Foundation American Kratom Association The Kratom Gals Misty Brown - TikTok Dr. Jack Henningfield at Congressional Briefing on Kratom Science Dr. Nora Volkow at Congressional Briefing on Kratom Science See John's powerful testimony at Tinley Park, IL, board meeting CONNECT WITH John: Facebook 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook Twitter STAY CONNECTED with us by subscribing to our newsletter! Sign up at KratomStoriesPodcast.com WATCH THE KRATOM GALS LIVESTREAM! Check out our YouTube livestream series called The Kratom Gals, where we review videos about Kratom and then react and share our personal experiences. JOIN KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. If you love our content and community, you can show your support through Buy Me A Coffee, or in this case... Buy Me A Kratom tea! This helps us with the cost of running the podcast, livestream, and forum. 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.

23 Aug 202446min

In this episode of Kratom Stories, host Madalyn Sklar explores the powerful impact of Kratom with Jen Clifford, a woman whose life was dramatically changed by the plant. Jen's story is a powerful reminder that even those who have struggled with long-term opioid addiction can find hope and healing. From Jen's initial encounter with Kratom in 2016, where she found its effects underwhelming, to her later rediscovery in 2018 during a painful period of grief and recovery, listeners will hear how this remarkable plant became her path to stability.  Jen recounts her journey with Kratom extracts, highlighting how she initially misused them before realizing the potential of whole-leaf kratom powder. She describes the process of finding her balance, shifting from capsules to powder, and embracing Blate Papes as her preferred consumption method. Jen's story is an impactful reminder that Kratom is more than just a botanical wonder—it is a powerful tool for those seeking alternatives on their path to recovery and well-being. Listen in to be inspired by Jen's journey and learn how she reclaimed her life with the help of Kratom. -RELATED LINKS - Blate Papes American Kratom Association KratomAnswers.org Misty Brown - TikTok Jennifer Gillis - TikTok Claudia Merandi - TikTok CONNECT WITH Jen: Facebook, TikTok 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook Twitter 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 KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. 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. 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.

16 Aug 202452min

Imagine a life riddled with chronic pain, facing a cancer diagnosis, and battling the relentless grip of Lyme disease. This was Bekkah Morris' reality before discovering the power of Kratom. On this week's Kratom Stories podcast, Bekkah, a fervent advocate for the plant, shares her deeply personal journey. Discouraged by the limitations of traditional medicine, she turned to her family's deep-rooted belief in herbal remedies and found solace in the leaves of the Kratom tree.  In 2013, Bekkah discovered Kratom and experienced immediate relief. This pivotal moment ignited a fire within her to help others discover its potential. From collaborating with vendors to joining the historic fight for Kratom legality in Washington D.C., Bekkah has become a driving force in the Kratom community. Her infectious energy and wealth of knowledge translate seamlessly to her vibrant TikTok presence, where she guides newcomers and seasoned users alike. Hear Bekkah's inspiring story and learn how she transformed her health, embracing the power of Kratom to live a more fulfilling and vibrant life.  -RELATED LINKS - The Kratom Gals A Leaf of Faith documentary Bekkah's TikTok Taunton Bay Kratom website CONNECT WITH Bekka: X, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook Twitter 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 KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. 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. 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.

9 Aug 202449min

Britney Hiser, a lifetime sufferer of chronic illnesses, shares her inspiring story of finding relief through Kratom. After years of debilitating pain, fatigue, and a series of misdiagnoses, traditional medicine offered little solace. Faced with a life of increasing limitations, Britney was desperate for a solution. Her journey with Kratom began as a last resort, fueled by a mix of desperation and skepticism. What followed was a transformative experience. Kratom not only alleviated her physical symptoms but also provided a much-needed emotional and mental boost. Through trial and error, Britney discovered the optimal way to consume Kratom, finding relief from the debilitating pain that had plagued her for years. Her story is a testament to the potential benefits of this often-overlooked plant, and a beacon of hope for others struggling with chronic conditions. -RELATED LINKS - Blate Papes The Kratom Gals Kratom Legalities American Kratom Association Shaina Brown Marshall Price CONNECT WITH Britney: TikTok 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook Twitter 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 KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. 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. 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.

2 Aug 20241h 9min

In this special solo episode of the Kratom Stories Podcast, host Madalyn Sklar delivers a mini Kratom masterclass, sharing her personal insights and years of research to guide listeners through the world of this increasingly popular botanical. Madalyn dives into the basics of Kratom, explaining its origins, the science behind its effects, and the importance of sourcing high-quality products. She breaks down the different vein colors – red, green, and white – and their associated effects, emphasizing that finding the right strain is a personal journey of experimentation.  Madalyn provides practical tips for navigating this journey, such as starting with sample packs, keeping a Kratom journal, and embracing a "go low and slow" approach to dosage. She discusses various forms of Kratom – powder, capsules, tablets, and extracts – offering her preferences and advice for choosing what's best for individual needs. Throughout the episode, Madalyn underscores the significance of responsible use, urging listeners to stay hydrated, listen to their body's signals, and consult healthcare professionals with any concerns. -RELATED LINKS - Episode 8: Turning Over a New Leaf: Jordan Richard's Kratom Redemption New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories Madalyn's Favorite Vendors Kratom tablets from Etha Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories Hear audio clip about the origin of Etha tablets Episode 23: Transforming Lives with Victor Chung of ETHA Botanicals Episode 24: From Back Pain to Botanicals: Alexander Karp’s Kratom Journey Madalyn's TikTok Kratom Real Talk forum Super Helpful Tips for New Kratom Users (video) Madalyn's digital scale on Amazon 🍃 MADALYN'S RECOMMENDED VENDORS 🍃 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories - FOLLOW US ONLINE - KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube Facebook Twitter 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 KRATOM REAL TALK, our online community for positive, uplifting discussions about the power of whole-leaf Kratom. HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT. 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. 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 Juli 202435min