Getting Personal with Plant Medicine

In this episode, host Diana sits down with friend and herbalist Tahj Laguerre to discuss personal journeys with plant medicine, the importance of community support, and the nuances between different plant remedies like kava, kratom, and psilocybin. Subscribe to our Substack for updates

This is a LIVE recording from our recent event at Root City Kava, featuring Douglas LaRose from the Kava Coalition and Christopher Deaney of Christopher's Organic Botanicals. We are making this a recurring event, so please stay tuned for further details about our November live recording.  Subscribe to our Substack for updates

Artist and educator Amanda Suttari joins Diana Krach to discuss her 15-year journey with Ayahuasca. The conversation explores the reality of plant medicine beyond the "quick fix" myth, emphasizing the necessity of preparation, strict cleansing protocols, and dedicated integration. Amanda also shares vital insights on how to ethically select retreat centers by evaluating their environmental impact and relationship with indigenous communities. Links: -https://www.amandasuutari.com/ - Christopher's Organic Botanicals Disclaimer Please be aware that Ayahuasca and many other plant medicines remain illegal in various jurisdictions, including Canada. This episode is for educational purposes only. Listeners should exercise caution, conduct thorough research, and be aware of the legal and health risks associated with these practices. Subscribe to our Substack for updates

In this episode, Diana Krach and Christopher Deaney break down the significant DEA updates from July 1st regarding the scheduling of various substances, including 7-OH, tianeptine, pseudoindoxil, and MGM-15. They discuss the crucial distinction between natural, whole-leaf kratom and synthetic, highly-processed extracts, emphasizing why education remains the most powerful tool for consumers and advocates.   Important links: Christopher's Organic Botanicals Subscribe to our Substack for updates

In this episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, host Diana Krach welcomes back Douglas La Rose, President of the Kava Coalition, for a deep dive into the communal and personal aspects of kava and kratom. Key Discussion Points: The Kava Experience: Douglas shares how kava serves as a powerful tool for building community, contrasting it with alcohol by emphasizing its ability to foster positive, pro-social connections rather than seclusion or conflict.   Debunking Myths: Reverse Tolerance: Douglas clarifies that the concept of "reverse tolerance" is largely a narrative used to encourage new users, rather than a scientific reality. He suggests it’s more about learning "how to hear" or experience the subtle effects of kava. 1 Liver Toxicity: Douglas addresses the persistent, debunked myth regarding kava’s liver toxicity, noting that the Kava Coalition is actively working to correct this damaging misinformation.   Kratom Perspectives: Douglas discusses his changing relationship with kratom, noting that it helped him stop drinking alcohol. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in products that blend botanicals, warning against deceptive marketing.   Plant Synergy: Both guests agree that while botanicals like kava, kratom, CBD, and others can complement one another, users should be mindful of personal physiology and avoid irresponsible mixing. 1 Upcoming Event: Diana announces a live recording event featuring Douglas and the "man behind the brand," Christopher, taking place on the first Sunday of September 2026 at Root City Kava Bar in Baltimore.   Douglas also promotes his Kavaseur podcast on Patreon and highlights the resources available at kavacoalition.org for those interested in deeper research and community events.     Subscribe to our Substack for updates