Episodes

  • Ep 32: Finding Hope and Healing with Kratom: Venus Usher's Story

    Ep 32: Finding Hope and Healing with Kratom: Venus Usher's Story
    Jun 21 2024
    In this episode of Kratom Stories, Madalyn speaks with Venus Usher, an ardent Kratom advocate who shares her transformative journey from suffering to healing. Venus recounts her years of enduring chronic pain due to endometriosis and the subsequent ill effects of FDA-approved medications like Lupron, which led to extreme measures, including multiple surgeries, opioid prescriptions, and even turning to the streets for relief. Her life took a dramatic turn when she stumbled upon a Dr. Oz video in 2016 that introduced her to Kratom. Initially skeptical, Venus decided to give it a try, leading to an astonishing reduction in her pain and a newfound sense of euphoria from simply not being in pain anymore. Venus goes on to describe how Kratom has fundamentally changed her life, allowing her to engage in everyday activities that were once impossible. From managing tasks around the house and spending quality time with family to moving freely without debilitating pain, Venus has found renewed purpose and energy. She also highlights her active role in advocating for Kratom, using social media and community engagements to spread the word and help others discover this powerful botanical. Her story is a testament to the potential of Kratom to offer relief and reclaim lives crippled by chronic pain and medical mismanagement. - RELATED LINKS - Christopher's Organic Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories The Kratom Gals Kratom Real Talk CONNECT WITH Venus: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram 🍃 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.
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    34 mins
  • Ep 31: Rediscovering Hope: Scars Rodriguez's Incredible Kratom Journey

    Ep 31: Rediscovering Hope: Scars Rodriguez's Incredible Kratom Journey
    Jun 14 2024
    On this episode of Kratom Stories, listeners will hear a raw and honest conversation with guest Scars Rodriguez as he details his harrowing battle with chronic pain stemming from a childhood diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. After enduring countless surgeries and grappling with the destructive cycle of prescription opioids, a defeated Scars found himself contemplating ending his own life. It was during this time of immense despair that he decided to explore Kratom. Choosing to take a gamble on this plant-based remedy, Scars experienced an immediate and life-changing shift. Within moments of his first dose, decades of chronic pain began to recede and was quickly replaced with renewed energy and a sense of hope he thought was lost forever. Six years later, Kratom remains a cornerstone in Scars' life, empowering him to reclaim his life. Now able to manage his pain without relying on pharmaceuticals, he spends his days enjoying activities he loves: cooking, caring for his father, and pursuing his passion for shooting sports. Scars' story resonates deeply, serving as a testament to the life-altering power of Kratom and the importance of sharing stories that combat the stigma surrounding this often misunderstood plant. - RELATED LINKS - A Leaf of Faith documentary Misteaz Merch - Kratom t-shirts, tank tops, sweatshirts, hoodies, pens, & tumblers Ep 2: Embracing Kratom: Misty Brown's Journey from Addiction to Advocacy Misty Brown - 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.
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    36 mins
  • Ep 30: Goodbye Pharma, Hello Kratom: Heather Habura’s Path To Pain Relief

    Ep 30: Goodbye Pharma, Hello Kratom: Heather Habura’s Path To Pain Relief
    Jun 7 2024
    Heather Habura seems to have it all - a glitzy career as a national television host, a thriving business, and a beautiful family. But beneath the surface, a silent struggle raged. In this episode of Kratom Stories, Heather bravely opens up about her battle with endometriosis and Crohn’s disease, diagnoses that brought debilitating pain and a medical system that failed to offer lasting relief. Heather's story takes a turn when she discovers Kratom, a plant previously unknown to her yet with the power to transform her life. In just four short months, Heather went from battling constant pain and anxiety to reclaiming her energy, drive, and zest for life. She shares her awe at finding relief in a natural plant, allowing her to ditch pharmaceuticals and their unwanted side effects. Heather's infectious enthusiasm for Kratom is palpable as she details its impact not just on her pain but also on her anxiety, energy levels, and overall mood. More than just a personal story, this episode is a testament to the power of Kratom, offering hope and practical advice, particularly for those new to this botanical wonder. Tune in to discover how Heather, in her own words, went from barely surviving to thriving thanks to Kratom. - RELATED LINKS - A Leaf of Faith documentary The Doctor Patient Forum Claudia Merandi - TikTok Dr. Mike - TikTok Blate Papes How to use Blate Papes Hear Ep 16: From Addiction to Innovation: The Blate Papes Journey with Harrison Cohen New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories Jordan Richard - TikTok CONNECT WITH HEATHER: TikTok, Twitter, Instagram 🍃 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.
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    50 mins
  • Ep 29: From College Stress to Kratom Success: Soren Shade's Story

    Ep 29: From College Stress to Kratom Success: Soren Shade's Story
    May 31 2024
    Soren Shade, a Kratom advocate and entrepreneur, shares his unconventional introduction to the plant. While battling the pressures of studying at Columbia University, he found himself overly reliant on caffeine, leading to sleep deprivation and compromised well-being. Soren's discovery of Kratom through an episode of Hamilton's Pharmacopoeia, ironically, led him to a healthier relationship with stimulants. Kratom provided the energy boost he needed without the caffeine jitters, allowing him to excel in his studies while improving his sleep and overall mental health. What started as a personal solution for Soren blossomed into a passion for drug education and policy reform. He dives into the cultural stigmas surrounding Kratom and other substances, advocating for a science-based approach to understanding their effects. Soren emphasizes the importance of responsible use, education, and supporting brands that prioritize consumer safety and responsible marketing. Tune in to hear more from Soren Shade as he shares his insights on navigating the complex world of Kratom, promoting informed consumption, and advocating for sensible drug policies. Related Links Top Tree Herbs Kratom Tea Recipes Hamilton's Pharmacopeia - clip from Kratom episode The Hamilton Morris Podcast Madalyn's Recommended Vendors Top Tree Herbs - check out the crushed-leaf tea bags Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: KratomStories Follow us on social media KratomStories.com TikTok YouTube 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 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.
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Ep 28: Surviving Loss and Addiction: Jenifer Martin's Inspiring Kratom Story

    Ep 28: Surviving Loss and Addiction: Jenifer Martin's Inspiring Kratom Story
    May 24 2024
    Jenifer Martin, a recovering addict and mother of four, joins Madalyn on the podcast to share her powerful journey. Struggling with addiction for years, Jenifer's life took a dark turn with the rise of fentanyl, leading to homelessness and the devastating loss of her husband. After hitting rock bottom, she found solace in a Florida detox and residential program where she discovered Kratom through a fellow patient. Since incorporating Kratom into her life, Jenifer has experienced a profound transformation. It has helped her manage anxiety, depression, and ADHD, allowing her to break free from drug dependence. Now two years clean, she credits Kratom for giving her the drive, motivation, and focus to rebuild her life, reconnect with her family, and pursue her dream of becoming a therapist. Jennifer's story is a shining example of Kratom's capacity to facilitate positive change, offering hope and inspiration to others seeking a path to recovery. Related Links Misty Brown - TikTok Ep 16: From Addiction to Innovation: The Blate Papes Journey with Harrison Cohen Blate Papes Etha Botanicals tablets Connect with Jenifer: TikTok, Twitter, Instagram 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 TikTok YouTube 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 Our Kratom Forum Introducing Kratom Real Talk, a private 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.
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    40 mins
  • Ep 27: Empathy in Medicine: Dr. Mike's Approach to Chronic Pain & Kratom

    Ep 27: Empathy in Medicine: Dr. Mike's Approach to Chronic Pain & Kratom
    May 17 2024
    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.
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    39 mins
  • Ep 26: Tara's Triumph: Conquering Pain and Depression with Kratom

    Ep 26: Tara's Triumph: Conquering Pain and Depression with Kratom
    May 10 2024
    In this episode of Kratom Stories, we meet Tara R., a nurse who discovered Kratom just three weeks ago (April 2024) and is already experiencing profound changes in her life. After years of battling mental health issues like bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, along with chronic pain caused by Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and degenerative disc disease, Tara was at her wit's end. Traditional treatments weren't providing relief, and she found herself in a dark place. But then, Kratom entered her life, offering a glimmer of hope. Tara shares how Kratom has not only significantly reduced her pain levels, making daily activities manageable again, but has also lifted her mood and improved her overall well-being. She describes experiencing a newfound sense of calm, centeredness, and positivity that has helped her overcome her depression and anxiety. With Kratom's support, Tara feels more empowered to engage in social interactions and push herself further than she thought possible. As a nurse, Tara brings a unique perspective to the Kratom community, understanding both the medical and patient sides of the equation. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of this botanical wonder and its potential to improve the lives of those struggling with pain and mental health challenges. Related Links Ep 22: Amanda Schuchardt, A Chronic Pain Warrior's Story Ep 11: Kratom: A Game-Changer for Chronic Pain Sufferers Like Deborah E Happy Hippo - 15% off when using this link New Hope Botanicals - 10% off with code: madalyn10 Etha Natural Botanicals - 25% off with code: KratomStories Kratom Real Talk forum 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.
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    26 mins
  • Ep 25: Recent FDA Study Validates Kratom's Safety

    Ep 25: Recent FDA Study Validates Kratom's Safety
    May 3 2024
    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.
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    32 mins