Holly Hillyer of Utokia Herb Co. joins Diana to talk about the recent ban that was snuck into the spending bill. The impending legislation will impact over 90% of the CBD industry negatively and remove access to medicine for a lot of people. Holly unpacks all of the misconceptions and myths that flood conversations about the future of CBD. And in our Christopher’s Corner, Christopher talks about impending kratom bans as well as ones already in existence, and how those bills impact consumers. He also outlines a few easy ways to get involved in the fight against bans and offers community outlets to discuss any collective efforts. *A special thank you, as we end the year, to all of our listeners, and to Christopher’s Organic Botanicals, the brand making it all possible. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Diana is joined by Madalyn Sklar of Kratom Stories Podcast and The Kratom Gals to talk about how kratom transformed her life. The plant that gave her autonomy over her pain management also inspired relentless advocacy and community outreach. In addition to constantly fighting for people to have access, she regularly educates newcomers about safe use and product accessibility. In the latest Christopher’s Corner, Christopher Deaney of Christopher’s Organic Botanicals points out how important platforms like podcasts are to the accessibility to plant medicine. He also highlights some of his current product favorites and shares special discount codes. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Diana is joined once again by Tashiana Reaves to talk about two plants that pair really well with each other: ashwagandha and blue lotus. They also work well with kratom, accentuating the benefits. Tashiana talks about different applications, consumption methods, and spiritual integrations of the two plants. Following the main segment is a new Christopher’s Corner, where Christopher Deaney talks about important legislation and ways to get involved that require very little effort (but have real impact). He also points out some product highlights and specials, offering listeners a special discount code. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
In our season 5 premiere, we (Diana and JR) talk about recent changes to GPPM. This podcast is now a branded one, meaning only one company is sponsoring us and has editorial approval. We couldn't be more excited to work with Christopher's Organic Botanicals, because not only is it our favorite kratom company, but it's a business that puts customers first and values transparency. To honor Veteran's Day, we discuss the benefits of adding kratom to the wellness toolbelt for those who deal with PTSD. This plant is so special, because it includes mood-enhancing, anxiety-relieving, and pain-reducing properties. For our first ever Christopher's Corner segment, we hear from Christopher Deaney about the origins of COB. Important links: Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) Use in a Veteran With Chronic Pain | American Journal of Psychiatry Residents' Journal Dr. Chris McCurdy | The Past, Present, and Future of Kratom Research – Troscriptions® The Potential for Kratom as an Antidepressant and Antipsychotic - PMC Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Hosts Diana and Christopher Deaney break down the differences between whole‑leaf kratom, extracts, and the synthesized 7‑OH compound, explaining why conflation of these products fuels fear and misguided bans. The episode covers harm reduction advice, safe usage tips, the role of industry testing and labeling, and advocacy efforts like the KCPA to protect responsible kratom consumers. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
In this episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, host Diana sits down with Tashiana Reaves, AKA Tashiana the Sun Goddess. The pair discuss plant medicine and its potential benefits for mental health, particularly when managing anxiety and depression. Tashiana shares her holistic approach to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges through the use of various herbs and plants. From chamomile to Tulsi, discover how these natural allies can offer soothing and supportive energies. Whether you're struggling with anxiety or coping with depression, this episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for incorporating plant medicine into your wellness routine. Join us for this engaging conversation and learn how to start your journey toward mental well-being in a gentle and effective way. Important links: Tashiana's Substack and website Cloud Culture Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Join host Diana in an engaging conversation with Charis Burrett from The Medicine Woman, as they explore the evolution of a nonprofit cannabis dispensary into a vibrant community hub. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities in the cannabis industry, including celebrity partnerships and the differences between cannabis markets in California and New Jersey. Charis shares her journey from the apparel industry to teaming up with Ice-T in creating a new flagship dispensary in Jersey City. Learn about the importance of education and community support in making plant medicine more accessible. This episode uncovers the complexities and personal stories behind The Medicine Woman's mission to provide safe, quality cannabis products. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Welcome to another exciting episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, hosted by Diana and JR. Today, we delve into the fascinating world of cordyceps, commonly known as the zombie fungus. Explore its rich history in traditional Chinese medicine, from promoting vitality and energy to enhancing lung health and aiding in altitude adaptation. Discover the incredible intelligence embedded in these fungi and learn about how their unique lifecycle could revolutionize perspectives on nature’s brilliance. With potential benefits in brain health, cholesterol regulation, and cell longevity, cordyceps are more than just a supplement; they are a powerful ally in enhancing human health. Tune in as JR shares some enlightening knowledge about these magical mushrooms, highlighting both personal experiences and scientific insights, urging listeners to reconsider the role of mushrooms in their wellbeing journey. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Welcome to an enlightening episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, where host Diana sits down with Tashiana the Sun Goddess to delve into the multifaceted world of hibiscus. Explore the symbolic and healing properties of this vibrant flower, from its ancient connections to Egyptian culture to its modern applications in teas and spiritual practices. Tashiana shares her personal journey with hibiscus, uncovering its role in harmonizing the spirit and body. As a powerful herbal ally for balancing emotions, improving digestion, and promoting cardiovascular health, hibiscus takes center stage in this episode. Important links: https://substack.com/@tashianathesungoddess https://www.youtube.com/@tashianathesungoddess Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Welcome to the fascinating world of plant medicine with your hosts, Diana and JR. In this seedling episode of 'Getting Personal with Plant Medicine', we dive into the wonders of the Turkey Tail mushroom. You'll discover how these intriguing fungi, often found on trees during your nature walks, can enhance your gut health, boost your immune system, and improve respiratory wellness. Join us as we share personal anecdotes about managing asthma and Crohn's disease with the anti-inflammatory prowess of Turkey Tail. Learn about the holistic approach to stress relief and how this remarkable mushroom can contribute to sustainable wellness. We'll guide you through practical tips for adding Turkey Tail to your health regimen, without replacing essential medications, highlighting its potential in improving the quality of life, particularly for those undergoing chemotherapy. Embrace a world where plant-based supplements coexist with modern medicine and discover how Turkey Tail can be a valuable asset in your wellness toolkit. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Join Diana and Frankie Greenthumbs as they delve into the world of indoor plant cultivation. In this episode, they discuss the joys and challenges of nurturing your leafy companions, sharing tips and secrets for successful plant care. Whether it's understanding the balance of light and water or choosing the right soil, Diana and Frankie guide you through the essentials of growing vibrant and healthy plants at home. Through an engaging conversation, they explore the nuances of feeding your plants, the importance of soil health, and the role of light in plant growth. Perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike, this episode offers expert insights and practical advice to elevate your plant parenting skills. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
In this special seedling episode (shorter explorations of certain plants) of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, join hosts Diana and JR as they dive into the world of kombucha. Explore the fascinating journey of brewing kombucha at home, with insights into the importance of black tea selection and the quirky nature of SCOBY hotels. Discover the health benefits of kombucha, from gut health to mental clarity, as Diana shares her personal experiences with this fermented beverage. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Welcome to another episode of "Getting Personal with Plant Medicine." In this episode, host Diana sits down with Emilia Rizzuto, founder of All Things Elderberry, to delve into the healing wonders of the elderberry plant. Emilia shares her personal journey of battling with Crohn's disease and how elderberry became a pivotal part of her treatment, leading her to create a line of natural products. Discover the various applications of elderberry beyond just syrup, as Emelia explains how the entire plant can be harnessed for its medicinal benefits. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Welcome to another seedling episode hosted by Diana and co-host JR. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of Reishi, also known as Ganoderma, a powerhouse in plant medicine often deemed the "mushroom of immortality." Discover how these incredible fungi can boost immunity, improve energy, and provide a calming effect without dissociation, offering a balanced and holistic alternative to Western medicine. Join us as we share personal experiences with Reishi tea, highlighting its immediate impact on health and well-being, from reducing the duration of colds to enhancing relaxation and appreciation. Learn about the historical significance of Reishi, its potential benefits for heart health, immune function, and its adaptogenic properties, making it a versatile component in holistic health practices. With practical insights and a community-driven approach, this episode brings you closer to understanding the personal and transformative effects of Reishi. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Dive into the mesmerizing world of plant medicine as Diana hosts Christian Rasmussen from Minnesota Nice Ethnobotanicals. This episode explores the captivating properties and personal stories surrounding Blue Lotus—an ancient and revered plant. Discover its spiritual applications, the journey of personal healing it offers, and its potential as an aphrodisiac. Blue Lotus can also enhance meditation, spiritual practices, and daily connections, offering a heart-opening, profound experience. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
In this episode with Frankie Greenthumbs, listeners are taken on a journey through the intricate world of cannabis cloning. The discussion highlights the challenges and breakthroughs in the cultivation process, offering insights into the innovative techniques used to enhance plant growth. With a focus on both the scientific and personal experiences of those involved, the episode sheds light on the evolving landscape of cannabis cultivation, making it accessible and engaging for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
For our first "seedling" episode, we do a quick exploration of the Stamets Stack, and why it works well for some. Chapters: (00:00) Getting Personal With Plant Medicine This chapter introduces our new "seedling episodes" format, where we explore plant medicine concepts in short, focused segments. Today, we examine the concept of "stacking" in plant medicine, specifically with psilocybin microdosing. We clarify the differences between two popular microdosing protocols: the Stamets Stack and the PhenomenSys Protocol. The PhenomenSys involves dosing every three days to manage tolerance levels, while the Stamets method consists of four days of dosing followed by a three-day break, allowing for a more consistent weekly schedule. We highlight how stacking isn't exclusive to psilocybin or psychedelics but can be applied to various plant medicines. Throughout, we share insights on the therapeutic benefits of microdosing without the psychedelic effects, emphasizing the importance of choosing a protocol that suits individual needs. (05:03) Optimizing Plant Medicine Stacking This chapter explores the practice of combining lion's mane, niacin, and psilocybin to enhance cognitive function and mental well-being. We examine the role of niacin, emphasizing the flushing effect that aids in the distribution of psilocybin and lion's mane throughout the body. Although some individuals are sensitive to niacin, experiencing tingling sensations, this reaction often subsides over time. The chapter also highlights the concept of the "stacking method," likening it to the synergistic power of the Megazord, which enhances the benefits of psilocybin and lion's mane together. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of understanding the effects of psilocybin alone before introducing lion's mane, to establish a baseline and determine its unique impact. Finally, we note the cognitive benefits attributed to lion's mane, also known as the "intelligence mushroom," and the importance of tolerance breaks to prevent excessive intake. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
In this enlightening episode, host Diana engages in a heartfelt conversation with Christopher Deaney of Christopher's Organic Botanicals. The discussion explores the transformative power of kratom as a natural remedy for chronic pain and an alternative to opioids. Christopher shares his personal journey, which began in 2015, when he discovered kratom's calming properties and natural benefits over pharmaceuticals. Together, Diana and Christopher delve into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the kratom market, emphasizing the pressing need for regulation and transparency to ensure consumer safety. They also discuss the potential of kratom to aid individuals overcoming significant life challenges, highlighting its ability to dispel myths and misinformation. With captivating personal stories and a focus on education, this episode is a compelling exploration of kratom's impact and the broader acceptance of plant medicine. Whether you're curious about kratom or seeking natural alternatives for pain management, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt discussions. (00:00) Christopher's Journey With Kratom (13:16) Navigating Kratom Usage and Regulations (23:30) Kratom Subscribe to our Substack for updates
In this episode, host Diana explores alcohol-free social spaces with Nick Patrick, founder of Root City Kava Lounge, Maryland's first kava bar. Nick became an advocate for plant-based nightlife after discovering kava. The episode highlights the sober curiosity movement among millennials seeking connections without alcohol's effects. Nick recounts how his experience with kava and kratom inspired the Velvet Curtain, a speakeasy that grew into Root City Kava Lounge. The discussion addresses the benefits and misconceptions of kava and kratom, stressing responsible use and consumer education. Nick emphasizes community building through non-alcoholic drinks and the authentic interactions kava bars offer. He plans to expand Root City Kava into Baltimore, aiming to create spaces for nightlife that can be enjoyable without alcohol. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
In this episode, host Diana is joined by Frankie GreenThumbs. Frankie, a seasoned grower and owner of a unique cannabis grow shop, shares his passion for creating an inclusive and supportive community for home growers, especially those in Maryland. The episode reveals how to transform a growing space into a thriving haven for cannabis, avoiding the common pitfalls of misleading grow shop advice. Frankie offers valuable insights on overcoming challenges like landlord restrictions and soil complexities and emphasizes the benefits of starting with clones. The audience also explores the exciting process of phenohunting for optimal genetics, ensuring a bountiful harvest. Whether someone is new to growing or an experienced cultivator, this episode is packed with practical advice, inspiration, and success stories from the burgeoning cannabis scene. It encourages embracing the autonomy and satisfaction of cultivating one's own plant medicine and highlights how it can lead to significant cost savings and superior quality compared to dispensary options. The episode offers an engaging and empowering conversation that will inspire individual growing journeys. Subscribe to our Substack for updates
Dylan Cazely
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