Ibogaine Uncovered

Women veterans face a war that never makes the headlines, one fought inside the ranks against sexual assault, toxic leadership, and a system that demands silence. Lorna Sturchio served six years in the U.S. Navy, survived two deployments, and came home to battle invisible wounds that no amount of medication could reach.In this episode, host Talia Eisenberg and Lorna discuss the largely hidden experience of women serving in the military. They cover how the VA system often fails veterans with complex trauma, what the path into plant medicine can look like, and what ibogaine treatment at Beond made possible. Lorna also speaks to her work supporting other women veterans and the creation of a dedicated healing program built specifically for them.Lorna Sturchio is a U.S. Navy veteran who served six years, including two deployments with the Naval Coastal Warfare unit. After her own ibogaine healing journey at Beond, she became a coach and facilitator and helped design Beond's women veteran service program — the first all-female cohort of its kind — where she now supports other women veterans in reclaiming their voice, their nervous systems, and their lives.Timestamps: (2:00) Double standards, toxic culture, and the cost of speaking up(6:00) Sexual assault in the military, silence, fear, and the 1-in-4 reality(9:00) TBI, medevac, opioid dependency, and a system that cut her off(17:00) VA treatment failures and a 2018 suicide attempt that changed everything(20:00) First steps into plant medicine: ayahuasca, psilocybin, and learning set and setting(23:00) Ibogaine at Beond: processing trauma, healing TBI, reclaiming sovereignty(29:00) Building Beond's first women veteran cohort📋 Book a consultation call with our clinical team: https://rebrand.ly/beond-spotify 🌐 Learn more about Beond: https://beondibogaine.com 📋 Beond Treatment Programs & Pricing: https://beondibogaine.com/ibogaine-treatment-cost/ 👥 Meet the Beond clinical team: https://beondibogaine.com/our-team/ ⭐ Read Beond testimonials: https://beondibogaine.com/ibogaine-treatment-reviews/📖 How to choose an ibogaine provider: https://beondibogaine.com/blog/selecting-the-ideal-ibogaine-provider/ 🎙️ More episodes of Ibogaine Uncovered: https://beondibogaine.com/podcast/ Follow Beond:Instagram:   / beond.us   TikTok:   / beond.us   YouTube:    / @beondibogaine   Facebook:   / beondtreatment   Ibogaine Uncovered is an educational podcast. Nothing shared in this episode constitutes medical advice. Always consult a qualified medical professional before making any treatment decisions.

A fire alarm rang in Claire Weber's nervous system at age two and never turned off, until ibogaine finally silenced it, forty years later. This is a conversation about what happens when your first memory is the worst thing that ever happened to you, and what it takes to come back from that.In this episode, Talia Eisenberg sits down with emotional release coach and hands-on healer Claire Weber to explore the territory of pre-verbal trauma. Claire shares how witnessing her mother's death just before her third birthday encoded a lifetime of shock, hyper vigilance, and the core belief that she was fundamentally alone. She traces her decades-long search for healing through 12-step recovery, neurofeedback and its role in repairing the brain's "mother circuit." Claire shares the distinction between pre-verbal trauma and pre-verbal shock, the daily practice of "re-mothering" her inner child, and a post-treatment car accident that confirmed her nervous system had fundamentally changed. Claire also shares her life vision to open a healing estate called Mothered, a place devoted to helping others rebuild the internal mother they never had.Claire Weber is an emotional release coach and hands-on healer devoted to grief work, somatic healing, and nervous system repair. She works with clients to release trauma held in the body and is developing Mothered, a residential healing estate designed to help people encounter and rebuild their internal mother. She can be found on Instagram at @bonjourclairefontaine.Timestamps(00:00) Introduction to Claire's story and the landscape of pre-verbal trauma(03:00) Claire's first memory: witnessing her mother drown at age two(06:30) Childhood coping — food as a substitute for the lost mother(11:00) The turning point: 12-step recovery, grief rituals, and the long search for healing(15:00) Neurofeedback and repairing the "mother circuit" in the brain(20:00) Claire's ibogaine vision — reliving the drowning through a firefighter's eyes(39:00) The car accident that proved her nervous system had changed(43:00) Re-mothering, the dreamscape practice, and Claire's vision for Mothered

For Carolina Reese, resilience started as survival. In this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, host Talia Eisenberg speaks with Reese about grief, caregiving, and what happened when years of holding everything together finally reached a breaking point.Reese shares how childhood abuse, immigration, and early loss shaped a lifelong pattern of hypervigilance and responsibility. As an adult she cared for a husband dying of cancer, later supported a combat veteran partner with severe PTSD, and pushed through years of stress until her body began shutting down. She describes how her experience at Beond helped her release trauma stored in the body, reconnect with fragmented parts of herself, and shift from self abandoning caregiving toward healthier service and coaching.Carolina Reese is a coach at Beond who supports clients preparing for and integrating ibogaine treatment. She first came to Beond as a guest in 2024 after years of caregiving and personal loss, including the death of her first husband and supporting a combat veteran with PTSD. Her work now focuses on helping others process grief, trauma, and major life transitions while maintaining boundaries and self care.(00:00) Introduction, grief and resilience(01:40) Childhood abuse, immigration, and learning hypervigilance(04:10) Caregiving and losing her first husband to cancer(06:30) Supporting a combat veteran with PTSD(09:40) Stress illness and hitting physical collapse(12:10) Discovering ibogaine and coming to Beond(15:00) Her ibogaine journey and reconnecting with lost parts of herself(20:00) Integration, boundaries, and shifting from caregiver to coach

Mike Stratton came to Beond looking for the ultimate optimization tool, and found something closer to a nervous system reorganization. In this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, Talia Eisenberg speaks with Stratton about why ibogaine belongs in the high performance conversation. They discuss burnout, decision fatigue, and the limits of stacks, peptides, and stimulants when the underlying operating system is dysregulated. Stratton describes early “hell ride” sessions that exposed decades of thought loops, then the later shift into presence, spiritual connection, and sustainable recovery. They discuss why a clinics structure matters, how routines and bodywork reduce overwhelm, why surrender is the key mindset for executives and athletes, and how Stratton’s company Merak Health approaches transformation through diagnostics plus ongoing coaching. Mike Stratton is the co-founder of Merak Health, a precision health and telemedicine platform focused on comprehensive diagnostics, performance medicine, longevity care, and coaching. He has worked for over a decade at the intersection of high performance and health optimization, and has returned to Beond for ibogaine multiple times, framing it as an operating system reset rather than a performance enhancer. Timestamps(00:00) Why ibogaine belongs in high performance(10:00) The burnout trap(16:00) Choosing a full reset(18:00) Decision fatigue off, nervous system on(25:00) “Hell rides,” thought loops, and learning presence(32:00) What Merak Health is and why coaching is the point(38:00) Testing, TBI cohorts, and the physiology questions worth measuring(46:00) Surrender mindsetLinksMarek Health: Guided Optimization & Premier TelehealthMike Stratton (@mstratton13) • Instagram photos and videos

A UK boxer feels like his brain is failing and his life is closing in. Lee Bowes (@leebo4080) shares what it is like to live with chronic TBI symptoms, and what changed after ibogaine.Host Talia Eisenberg speaks with Lee about the hidden cost of boxing: memory loss, confusion, depression, anxiety, panic, PTSD symptoms, and early cognitive decline. Lee traces how trauma shaped his nervous system long before the ring, then describes the years of head impacts, a brain bleed that ended his career, and the spiral into isolation when conventional options did not work. Lee explains why he chose ibogaine at Beond, how the coaching helped him stay with fear during the experience, and what shifted afterward in clarity, mood, hope, and his ability to speak, plan, and feel a future again.Lee Bowes is a UK based boxer from Middlesbrough who participated in Beond’s athlete cohort. After years of competition and daily sparring, he developed severe neurological and mental health symptoms consistent with chronic traumatic brain injury, including panic attacks, cognitive disorientation, mood instability, and PTSD. He now speaks publicly about athlete brain injury and the need for accessible, restorative treatment options.Timestamps(02:00) Boxing background, identity, and what happens when the lights go off(03:30) Lee’s first major trauma(07:00) Losing his mother, becoming caretaker, and channeling pain into fighting(10:00) Brain bleed, surgery, rehab, and the first panic attack from disorientation(13:00) Medication, isolation, and self medicating(18:00) How he found ibogaine(21:30) Inside the experience(28:30) What changed after(31:00) Lee’s message to fighters

In this episode, Talia Eisenberg talks with Norman Ohler, bestselling author of Blitzed, about creativity, cognition, and how narrative changes when the nervous system changes.Ohler breaks down how ibogaine differs from classic psychedelics, describing a state that feels sober yet radically clear. He explains how his second flood dose shifted quickly from personal healing into an extended, high-precision creative session where he restructured chapters, tone, and architecture for upcoming books. The conversation closes with advice for creatives using psychedelic work to understand themselves better, and why ibogaine can function as an introspective tool for writers rather than just a dramatic visionary experience.Norman Ohler is a bestselling German author and historian whose book Blitzed examined drug use in Nazi Germany and its impact on wartime strategy and leadership. He writes about drugs and history, hosts the DopeCast, and is working on Stoned Sapiens, a drug-centered reframe of human history that includes iboga as one of the oldest psychoactive influences on culture and consciousness. LinksI write books — NORMAN OHLERNorman Ohler (@normanohler)Stoned sapiens | SubstackTimestamps(01:55) Blitzed and why drugs belong in serious history(05:25) Why humans seek drugs and the science of neuroplasticity(08:10) Becoming a writer and the role of discipline versus inspiration(10:15) First LSD experience and how it changed narrative form(14:10) Arriving at Beond: the observer versus the inner journey(21:10) Why Beond’s protocol matters, neuroplasticity, breathwork, and integration(28:20) Stone Sapiens, iboga’s ancient role, and what changes after treatment(30:45) Advice to creatives using psychedelic work for self-knowledge

For athletes with traumatic brain injury, when the cheering stops, the damage does not. On this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, host Talia Eisenberg is joined by former pro rugby player Chris Simpson-Daniel, bare knuckle champion Mark “The Shark” Irwin, and retired MMA veteran Mike “The Joker” Guymon. They speak about traumatic brain injury, early cognitive decline, depression, and the absence of viable medical treatment. The conversation traces their careers in rugby, MMA, and bare knuckle fighting, the slow accumulation of head trauma, and the neurological symptoms that followed. They discuss systemic failures within sport, the psychological toll of identity loss, and the lack of long-term care. The episode then turns to their shared experience undergoing ibogaine treatment at Beond, exploring neurological symptoms, emotional processing, physical recovery, and the emerging evidence that ibogaine may offer meaningful intervention for TBI when conventional medicine does not.Chris Simpson-Daniel is a former professional rugby player in the UK, involved in the class action lawsuit addressing long-term brain injury in rugby and founder of Tempest Group Villages, a supportive living initiative for athletes. Mark Irwin, known as Mark The Shark, is a bare knuckle champion and co-founder of Athletes Journey Home, supporting fighters with TBI through psychedelic therapy and research. Mike Guymon, known as The Joker, is a retired professional MMA fighter who has spoken publicly about the neurological and psychological toll of repeated head trauma.Timestamps(03:00) Why they entered their sports and the meaning of brotherhood(11:00) Rugby head trauma and the UK class action lawsuit(14:30) Early TBI warning signs and pressure to keep competing(18:00) Mike’s accumulated TBIs, tremors, balance issues, and daily impairment(24:45) Medical dead ends, CTE, and being written off by doctors(30:00) Why ibogaine, the Stanford TBI study, and this cohort’s purpose(35:00) Deciding to try Beond, skepticism, fear, and hope(37:00) Inside the ibogaine sessions and individual experiences(45:00) Early outcomes, tremors stopping, mood shifts, and mobility returning(50:00) Beond’s medical model, coaching, and community supportLinksMark Choinski (@mark___the___shark)Michael Guymon (@jokerguymon)The Tempus Group (@tempus.villages)Athletes Journey Home – Psychedelics for Traumatic Brain InjuryAthletes Journey Home (@athletesjourneyhome)

What happens when a world class chemist studies a molecule for twenty years and then finally takes it himself? In this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, host Talia Eisenberg speaks with Dr. Dalibor Sames about the science of ibogaine, its unique pharmacology, and what it reveals about the future of mental health treatment.Dr. Sames explains why ibogaine does not fit into traditional pharmacology models and introduces his matrix pharmacology theory, describing how the molecule interacts with many systems at once rather than a single receptor. The conversation covers synaptic repair, neurotrophic factors like GDNF, antidepressant effects, and why ibogaine shows efficacy across addiction, depression, PTSD, and TBI. In the second half, Dr. Sames describes his time at Beond as both participant and observer, including vivid visual phenomena, an unexpected moment where he felt he could “see” molecular structures, and the takeaway he emphasizes after watching clients transform in real time: this is powerful technology and scaling it demands responsibility.Dr. Dalibor Sames is Professor of Chemistry at Columbia University, where his group combines molecular design, organic synthesis, and pharmacology to develop CNS therapeutics that induce restorative neuroplasticity, as well as tools for imaging synaptic function. He is also a cofounder of Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals and Kures, Inc., translating discoveries from his lab into clinical development.Timestamps(00:05:00) GDNF and neurorestoration: why synapses became the entry point(00:08:00) Skepticism vs the clinical reports: breakthrough medicine or snake oil(00:10:00) The “empty screen” problem: why standard receptor panels did not explain it(00:12:00) Matrix pharmacology: the Manhattan traffic grid analogy for how it works(00:15:00) Why analogs: cardiac risk, access, and the ethics of redesigning nature(00:20:00) Serotonin transporter and pharmaco chaperoning: unusual protein folding effects(00:22:00) “Meets you where you are”: individuality of experience and doing science on subjectivity(00:25:00) Why take it now: what changes when the scientist becomes the participant(00:33:00) Pre Beond phenomena: the African face vision and possible explanations(00:40:00) The Beond journey: projections, maintaining baseline awareness, and asking for molecules(00:47:00) Beond as living lab: observing client transformations and the responsibility to scale safely(00:54:00) Closing thesis: duty, antibiotics analogy, and what comes next

What happens when one of the world’s leading voices on detoxification and the gut brain connection experiences Ibogaine? On this episode, Talia Eisenberg sits down with Dr. Alejandro Junger to explore the scientific mechanisms behind Ibogaine and its potential to reset the entire nervous system.Dr. Junger explains how Ibogaine interacts with neurotransmitters, neuroplasticity, and the enteric nervous system. He describes why the gut contains more neurons than the brain in the skull, how noribogaine may influence inflammation and mood, and why repairing the intestinal wall is central to long term mental health. The conversation focuses on the biology of depression, the critical role of the microbiome, and the risks and safety protocols around Ibogaine. Dr. Junger also shares how Ibogaine shifted his own depressive physiology.Dr. Alejandro Junger is a triple board certified physician in internal medicine, cardiology, and functional medicine. He is the bestselling author of Clean, Clean Gut, Clean Eats, and Clean Seven.LinksDr. Alejandro Junger's 21-Day Cleanse ProgramAlejandro Junger: books, biography, latest updateAlejandro Junger MD (@dralejandrojunger)Timestamps(00:00); Intro, Alejandro’s background and visit to Beond(10:00); Divorce, survival mode, anger and the slide into depression(16:00); Early Ibogaine work in Mexico and his first non visionary Ibogaine session(21:00); Avoiding antidepressants, choosing Ibogaine, and the intention to forgive(25:00); Open heart surgery, cardiac risk, and ibogaine vs noribogaine explanation(30:00); Supplemental dose, sudden emotional shift, and relief of depressive heaviness(35:00); Three brains model – head, gut, heart and the gut as an intuitive brain(41:00); Leaky gut, microbiome, chronic inflammation and modern chronic disease(48:00); Ibogaine for personal growth vs crisis and witnessing veteran transformations at Beond(58:00); Combining Clean gut repair protocols with Ibogaine before, during, and after treatment(01:10:00); Future of centers, human connection, and where to find Dr. Junger’s work

From combat missions to psychedelic legislation, Adam Marr has lived the full spectrum of service. In this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, host Talia Eisenberg sits down with the Apache helicopter pilot turned veteran advocate to explore how personal trauma led him from the battlefield to the frontlines of mental health reform.Adam shares his journey through military service, family tragedy, and profound psychedelic healing. He recounts his first experiences with Ayahuasca, Ibogaine, and 5-MeO-DMT, and how these medicines catalyzed a spiritual rebirth that later informed his national advocacy work. Together, he and Talia trace the evolution of veteran-centered psychedelic programs, the creation of Beond Service, and the landmark policy initiatives that are reshaping access to healing for veterans and their families.Adam Marr is a former U.S. Army Apache helicopter pilot and co-founder of the Warrior Angels Foundation. He serves on the leadership team of the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition, helping to shape national policy and expand access to psychedelic-assisted therapies for veterans. Marr has also been instrumental in developing Beond Service, a comprehensive healing program at Beond that combines Ibogaine treatment with integration and family support.Timestamps:(00:00) – Introduction and Adam’s path from combat pilot to advocate(02:15) – Meeting Talia in Kentucky and the emotional testimony that connected them(03:45) – Childhood, military upbringing, and joining ROTC after 9/11(07:00) – Deployment to Iraq and the emotional toll of missing family milestones(11:15) – Returning home and witnessing his brother’s decline after TBI and PTSD(17:30) – The broken military medical system and discovery of alternative treatments(20:00) – Founding the Warrior Angels Foundation and appearing on Joe Rogan(25:00) – First experiences with Ayahuasca and early lessons in surrender(30:00) – Personal burnout, family crisis, and turning to Ibogaine for healing(33:00) – Ibogaine visions, subconscious healing, and spiritual awakening through 5-MeO(41:00) – Integration challenges and learning the importance of support(45:00) – Building the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition(54:00) – Founding Beond Service and creating holistic veteran and family cohorts(01:08:00) – Closing reflections on service, faith, and the ripple effect of healing

How do you prepare for one of the most powerful psychedelic medicines on earth? In this episode of Talia Eisenberg speaks with Yan Katz, a clinical counselor and coach at Beond, whose own healing journey reshaped his view of masculinity, purpose, and the long arc of integration.Yan shares his path from high-pressure careers in finance and the music industry to becoming a psychotherapist and men’s work facilitator. He describes how psychedelics, and ultimately Ibogaine, helped him reconnect with vulnerability, redefine success, and step into service. The discussion explores masculine conditioning, the importance of preparation and integration, somatic awareness, and how coaching can support lasting transformation after Ibogaine.Yan Katz is a clinical counselor, preparation and integration coach at Beond, and men’s work facilitator. Drawing on psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and somatic methods, he supports clients ranging from veterans to executives in navigating psychedelic healing and building sustainable change.Timestamps:(01:45) – Masculinity, vulnerability, and early emotional conditioning(03:28) – First LSD experience in Washington DC and realization about purpose(07:03) – Burnout in finance and the music industry(11:02) – First Ibogaine journey: clarity, healing, and release from nicotine and cannabis(17:36) – Synchronicities, calling, and preparation before Ibogaine(23:14) – Processing mortality through psilocybin and setting life boundaries(27:41) – Men’s work, brotherhood, and masculine healing(29:42) – Psychedelic preparation coaching: tools, metaphors, and mindset(33:56) – Somatic practices for awareness and integration(46:22) – Rituals, fatherhood, and living life as ceremony

What happens when your sibling not only shares your past but also walks with you into the same medicine that changed your life? In this deeply personal episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, host Talia Eisenberg sits down with her brother, psychedelic integration therapist Zev Eisenberg, to explore his first-hand experience with Ibogaine and the healing it brought to their family.Zev reflects on their shared childhood in Omaha, his journey from the high-pressure art world to becoming a therapist, and the fears he carried about Ibogaine after witnessing Talia’s own intense experience years ago. He shares how the medicine helped him reprocess painful memories, regulate his emotions, reconnect with his inner child, and even take steps toward reconciliation with their father. Together, they discuss family dynamics, the evolution of psychedelic work from trauma healing to personal optimization, and the value of returning to Ibogaine for deeper layers of growth.Zev Eisenberg is an NYU-trained psychologist and psychedelic integration therapist based in New York City. He now specializes in helping clients prepare for and integrate transformational psychedelic experiences through his practice, Heart Openers.Timestamps(01:32) – Gratitude for the experience and seeing Beyond’s care model firsthand(03:02) – Growing up in Omaha, early drug use, (07:28) – Why Zev avoided Ibogaine for years despite seeing its impact on Talia(09:57) – Life challenges in early 2024 that led him to finally say yes(14:55) – How previous personal work shaped a gentler Ibogaine experience(16:28) – Detailed journey account: memory-based visions and emotional completions(20:42) – Releasing fear of Ibogaine and the idea of returning for deeper work(22:59) – Therapist’s perspective on Beyond’s facilitation and client empowerment(25:54) – Family healing: reconciling with their father post-ceremony(32:05) – Childhood memories reframed with purpose after Ibogaine(36:54) – Career arc: from the New York art world to psychedelic integration therapy(41:15) – Integration at six weeks: inner child work, physical energy, and mental clarity(45:08) – The growth mindset and why healing is never “one and done”

What if healing wasn’t about fixing what’s broken, but about softening into who you truly are? In this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, host Talia Eisenberg speaks with Crille Rask, a Swedish designer and creative based in Bali, who came to Beyond seeking depth, clarity, and a new way to love. What he found was a medicine that didn’t take him away from himself, but right into the center.Crille shares how his experience with Ibogaine opened up deep emotional healing, helped him confront inner chaos, and offered a new, embodied presence in both his relationship and creative life. From powerful visions to profound discomfort, he speaks candidly about anxiety, childhood trauma, and the difference between peak experiences and sustainable change. This is a story about what it means to feel safe in your body and finally be at peace.Crille Rask is a designer, builder, and multidisciplinary creative living in Bali. With a background in fashion marketing and a passion for architecture, he crafts homes and experiences rooted in beauty, community, and connection. He’s also a devoted partner and inner explorer, navigating the edges of emotional depth and embodied presence.Timestamps:(02:00) – Why come to Ibogaine when life looks good on the outside?(04:00) – From therapy to plant medicine: reaching what talk can’t touch(06:00) – The inner prison: sitting with self and surfacing old voices(09:00) – Childhood waves, panic, and trusting what needs to die(11:00) – Journey begins: visuals, memory cards, and felt experience(14:00) – Discomfort and doubt: the mind creeps back in(17:00) – Grief, fear, and learning to love without a dopamine hit(23:00) – Healing the body: breath, softness, and peace(27:00) – Brotherhood and breakthrough: witnessing other men cry(32:00) – Meditation, AquaRelax, and feeling safe in the womb(36:00) – Creativity after chaos: space, stillness, and design(41:00) – Loving differently: what integration might look like(44:00) – A shared journey: preparing for marriage through Ibogaine

What if healing didn't just fix you, it brought you home to your true self? On this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, Estonian singer and visionary artist Kerli Koiv shares how her experience with Ibogaine reignited her sense of purpose, cleared ancestral wounds, and left her feeling five years old again.Kerli opens up about her childhood, struggles with depression, and how fame in the music industry left her creatively disconnected. She describes how working with Ibogaine helped her release generational trauma, reconnect to her authentic self, and rediscover the healing power of music. Kerli Koiv is an Estonian singer, producer, and artist known for her ethereal voice, visual storytelling, and bold creative vision. Her experience with Ibogaine now fuels a new chapter of artistic expression.Timestamps:(02:00) – From fetal position to freedom: What led Kerli to Ibogaine(05:00) – Trauma, addiction, and breaking ancestral patterns(09:00) – First Ibogaine experience and the choice to go slow(12:00) – Childhood healing, shadow work, and facing discomfort(15:00) – Honoring tradition: Music, preparation, and sacred ceremony(19:00) – The second journey: ancestral lines, golden threads, and clarity(22:00) – Humility and how to approach Iboga respectfully(27:00) – Community as medicine(31:00) – Synchronicity, lineage healing, and resetting the nervous system(35:00) – Creativity reborn: what’s next for Kerli’s musicLinks:KERLI - OfficialKerliKERLI (@kerlimusic) • Instagram photos and videos

Yoga teacher and wellness guide Sjana Elise came to Beyond seeking cognitive enhancement and walked away with a sense of divine liberation. In this  conversation with host Talia Eisenberg, she opens up about her transformational experience with Ibogaine, including how it brought her peace, clarity, and a renewed connection to self, spirit, and service.Sjana reflects on her lifelong struggles with depression, ADHD, and suicidal ideation, and how those challenges led her to yoga and eventually to Ibogaine therapy. She contrasts Ibogaine with ayahuasca, emphasizes the importance of surrender, and speaks candidly about integration, dreams, and cultivating a new relationship with presence, intention, and her own voice. The episode also explores how this powerful medicine transcends addiction treatment to offer deep healing for anyone ready to meet themselves fully.Sjana Elise is an Australian yoga teacher, content creator, and wellness advocate known for her poetic presence and deeply personal storytelling. With a background in photojournalism and a passion for embodiment and mental health, she shares her journey with honesty and grace to inspire others toward healing.Timestamps:(03:00) – Early life, mental health struggles, and movement as medicine(06:30) – Discovering yoga and finding purpose through practice(10:00) – Ayahuasca vs. Ibogaine: Different paths, different lessons(14:30) – The Ibogaine experience: surrender, vision, and clarity(19:00) – Cognitive healing, inner stillness, and accessing the divine(26:00) – Integration insights and the sacred power of dreams(34:00) – Witnessing transformation in others at Beyond(42:00) – Food, embodiment, and gratitude after the reset(47:00) – Addressing stigma and becoming an unexpected educator

Today on Ibogaine Uncovered, Talia Eisenberg sits down with investor and psychedelic advocate Jeremy Gardner, discussing his personal journey and transformative experiences with psychedelics.Jeremy shares his early encounters with psychedelics, highlighting profound insights that significantly improved his mental health. He details his recent Ibogaine treatment at Beyond, the neurological reset it provided, and the clarity gained from subsequent Bufo (5-MeO-DMT) sessions. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of intentional integration practices, describing how these medicines can profoundly shift behaviors and foster deep personal growth.Jeremy Gardner is a prominent investor in the psychedelic medicine space, serving as managing partner at Mystic Ventures. He is widely recognized as an influential early entrepreneur in both the psychedelic and cryptocurrency communities.Timestamps:(04:00) - Early psychedelic experiences and mental health transformation(09:00) - First Iboga experience and its effects(14:00) - Returning to Ibogaine for neurological reset(18:00) - Support and safety at Beyond(20:00) - Witnessing transformation in fellow guests(28:00) - Integration strategies and the power of neuroplasticity(32:00) - Combining Ibogaine and Bufo for profound clarity

Today on the show, Talia interviews Clayton Smith, who has pioneered a groundbreaking veterans' program at Beond, leveraging ibogaine to heal trauma and addiction.Clayton discusses his own challenging experiences with trauma and alcoholism, highlighting how ibogaine significantly aided his recovery. He outlines the comprehensive program he helped develop, covering pre-admission coaching, an intensive eight-day onsite experience at Beond, and continued post-treatment support, emphasizing its transformative impact on veterans and their families.Clayton Smith is a former U.S. Army Infantry Captain and Purple Heart recipient. After leaving the military in 2013, he battled the invisible wounds of traumatic brain injury and PTSD for over a decade before successfully completing Beyond’s therapeutic protocol. He now collaborates with fellow veterans and their spouses to lead the Beond Service program.Timestamps:(02:07) Clayton's Military Experiences and Trauma(08:55) Struggles with Alcoholism and Finding Ibogaine(15:12) The Beond Experience: Pre-Admission to Arrival(22:34) The Ibogaine Experience: Visuals and Insights(33:04) Building the Beond Service Program

What if the key to healing wasn’t just in a single experience, but in a lifetime of exploration? On this episode of Ibogaine Uncovered, producer Eamon Armstrong takes us inside his deeply personal journey with Ibogaine. From a decade of psychedelic healing to his personal story of addiction, fantasy, and dissociation, Eamon shares how this experience at Beond has reshaped his understanding of healing, pleasure, and presence.On the show, Eamon discusses cognitive enhancement and  how Ibogaine has helped him shift from deep psychological exploration to refining daily habits. He opens up about his struggles with addiction—not to substances, but to sexual fantasy and dissociation—and how his healing journey has transformed his relationship with pleasure and intimacy. The conversation delves into the neuroscience of addiction, the connection between sex and substance abuse, and why Ibogaine may be an important tool for treating compulsive behaviors. Eamon also shares a profound encounter with another guest at Beond, highlighting the universal nature of the father wound in masculinity. Eamon Armstrong is a writer, speaker, and the producer of Ibogaine Uncovered. He also hosts Life is a Festival, The Psychedelic Therapy Podcast, and You Like It, exploring themes of healing, consciousness, and personal transformation. With a background in festival culture, masculinity, and psychedelic therapy, Eamon’s work is dedicated to breaking stigmas and fostering authentic conversations around mental health, addiction, and growth. His upcoming book dives into his own healing journey, exploring sex addiction, fantasy, and the role of psychedelics in reclaiming masculinity.Timestamps (01:43) Eamon's Healing Journey (06:01) Insights from Ibogaine (07:33) Challenges of Sexual Addiction (09:18) Cognitive Enhancement and Brain Rejuvenation (16:58) The Universality of AddictionLinks Eamon Armstrong’s website Eamon Armstrong (@eamonarmstrong) The Psychedelic Therapy Podcast Life is a Festival Podcast You Like It Podcast

Ian McCall is a former UFC fighter, retired MMA world champion, and psychedelic research advocate championing alternative treatments for athletes through his organization, Athletes Journey Home. Ian’s journey with psychedelics has been driven by his battle with traumatic brain injury and addiction, which manifested after more than a decade of professional fighting. He credits psychedelics for his successful recovery from more than a decade of dependence on pain medication. Today, Ian spends his time as a performance coach and mentor, often cornering other professional athletes and assisting them on their own path to healing. In this episode, Ian also shares how a recent experience with ibogaine helped him overcome ketamine misuse, a problem affecting an increasing number of visitors to Beond.  What We Discuss Ian's journey as a professional MMA fighter and the personal challenges he faced during his career Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and its impact on athletes in combat sports Ian's transition from traditional treatments to exploring psychedelics for TBI and addiction recovery A deep dive into Ian's Ibogaine experience, including its challenges and profound insights How Ibogaine works on the NMDA receptor and its role in repairing damage from ketamine misuse Ian's personal realization about overcoming fear and embracing vulnerability during his healing journey The potential for psychedelics like Ibogaine to support neurogenesis and long-term recovery Ian's approach to helping others with TBI, addiction, and trauma, including the tools and therapies he employs The challenges and barriers in treating TBI and supporting recovery in athletes and others Ian's vision for the future of TBI treatment and the role of psychedelics in holistic healing Why It’s ImportantThis episode offers an intimate look at Ian McCall's transformation from a professional MMA fighter to a passionate advocate for psychedelic healing. By addressing the complexities of Traumatic Brain Injury and addiction recovery, Ian shares invaluable insights into the potential of psychedelics like Ibogaine to foster profound healing. Whether you're an athlete, a healthcare professional, or someone interested in alternative therapies, this episode provides a compelling narrative on resilience, innovation, and the future of mental and physical recovery. Tune in to learn how Ian's experiences can inspire and guide others on their healing journeys. Relevant Links Ian McCall Instagram Athletes Journey Home The McCall Method (Integration coaching with Ian) Ian McCall’s fight stats

Georgia Sinclair is an international DJ, music producer, and podcaster. Known for her chart-topping collaborations, electrifying House tracks, and global DJ residencies, Georgia has made waves not only in the music industry but also as co-host of the acclaimed wellness podcast Eighty Twenty. Her creativity and authenticity have earned her a loyal following across multiple industries. In this episode, Georgia shares her transformative experience with ibogaine—a journey that she describes as “the week that changed me as a person forever.”What We Discuss How ibogaine helped Georgia reprogram a sense of safety Ibogaine as a “firm but compassionate” medicine How Georgia’s journey gave her insight into addiction ADHD and OCD relief: how Georgia is managing without her medication post-ibogaine Dealing with perfectionism and avoidance  Addressing creative blocks in her music How Georgia is embracing a more mindful relationship with substances Georgia’s advice for others who are curious about ibogaineWhy It’s ImportantFrom gaining clarity on lifelong struggles like ADHD, OCD, and perfectionism to reprogramming her sense of safety and embracing a more intentional relationship with substances, Georgia’s story shows us that there are no limits to the different ways ibogaine can transform a person’s life. It’s a raw and inspiring testament of what ibogaine can do for us when we remain open and curious to the healing potential of this powerful medicine. Whether you’re curious about ibogaine, personal growth, or the intersection of creativity and wellness, this conversation is packed with revelations and a message of hope.Relevant Links Georgia Sinclair’s website Georgia Sinclair on Instagram Georgia Sinclair on Spotify Georgia Sinclair on Soundcloud Georgia Sinclair on TikTok Eighty Twenty Podcast

Stephane Lasme is a retired professional basketball player from Gabon and the co-founder and managing director of Stedde Capital, an investment firm focusing on opportunities within the realms of sports ownership, infrastructure, technology, and plant medicine – including iboga and ibogaine – in the United States and Africa. As a professional athlete, Stephane began his career in the NBA, and went on to play in the EuroLeague for Spain, Greece, and Turkey, among other teams. Stephane is also the founder of the 13 Foundation, which provides opportunities for children and youth in his hometown of Port-Gentil, Gabon. What We Discuss Defining moments, on and off the court The 13 Foundation – how it started and how it’s grown Growing up with iboga The importance of privacy and cultural respect when working with iboga How Stephane’s company is investing in the future iboga Stedde Capital, sustainability, and the overharvesting of iboga Harm Reduction: comparing ibogaine to conventional pharmaceuticals The healing potential of iboga: what we’re missing The future of ibogaine treatment in the face of rising popularityWhy It’s ImportantGrowing up in Gabon, iboga was a household medicine for Stephane Lasme and his family. After many years as a professional athlete – and away from his culture – Stephane’s reconnection with iboga has led to the creation of a company putting real money into research, right in Gabon. We learn from Stephane that even though it has played an important role in his life, talking about iboga and his experiences with it isn’t always so important. His passion lies in investing in the future of this medicine through meaningful research and investigation alongside those who’ve grown up with it too. Relevant Links Stephane Lasme’s website Stephane Lasme on Instagram Stedde Capital Stephane Lasme on The Microdose Stephane Lasme discusses iboga on Aspen Public Radio

Dr. Lola Ohonba is a clinical pharmacist, plant medicine pharmacology expert, counselor, professor, and lifelong herbalist. She is also the founder and CEO of WCI Health, where she consults with people who are seeking guidance in using cannabis, psychedelics, and other plant medicines as a part of their health and wellness journey. Dr. O is public speaker, the best-selling author of A Pharmacist’s Guide to Cannabis: Perspectives of a Non-Conformist Clinician and the host of the podcast, Let’s Talk Plant Medicine: Cannabis, Psychedelics and Pharmaceutics. What We Discuss What makes Dr. O a “non-conformist” clinician How Dr. O became interested in the medicinal qualities of cannabis (and later psychedelics) Growing up with plant medicine as the norm as an Indigenous herbalist of the Yoruba people of West Africa How Dr. O’s experience as a counselor lends itself to her work as a pharmacist and consultant The notion of “plants over pills,” and why it’s an oversimplification Harm Reduction: Comparing ibogaine to conventional pharmaceuticals Voacanga africana: An important relative of Tabernanthe iboga Why we can’t treat ibogaine like other plant and fungi medicines The role of synthetic ibogaine PsychEntheo, Dr. O’s new consulting platformWhy It’s ImportantDr. Lola Ohonba brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and Indigenous wisdom to the conversation about ibogaine and psychedelics. As a clinical pharmacist and lifelong herbalist from the Yoruba people of West Africa, Dr. O’s insights bridge the gap between conventional pharmaceuticals and traditional plant medicine. Her non-conformist approach challenges mainstream perspectives, offering valuable reflections on harm reduction, the complexities of ibogaine, and the future of psychedelic medicine. Relevant Links WCI Health website PsychEntheo Health (Dr. O’s new platform) Let’s Talk Plant Medicine Podcast Dr. Lola Ohonba on LinkedIn WCI Health on Instagram WCI Health LinkTree

Dr. Joseph Barsuglia is a clinical and research psychologist, student and initiate of Bwiti, former Christian pastor,  and an advisor in psychedelic medicine and alternative healthcare. A co-investigator in the MAPS phase 2 MDMA trials for post-traumatic stress disorder, Dr. Barsuglia has also presented novel observational research on the use of ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT, and developed guidelines for their administration. Along with his partner and co-founder, Tricia Eastman (a previous Ibogaine Uncovered guest), he has co-led psychedelic retreats through Psychedelic Journeys since 2015. Beond co-founder Talia Eisenberg is a guest co-host on the show.What We Discuss How Dr. Barsuglia first came to know iboga What makes iboga such an effective tool for healing trauma The unique therapeutic benefits of working with ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT The biggest challenges affecting practitioners offering treatment with psychedelics The commonalities and differences between what Indigenous wisdom says and a modern medical approach to psychedelics Reconciling Dr. Barsuglia’s Bwiti present with his Christian past How Dr. Barsuglia’s spiritual work complements his psychology practiceWhy It’s ImportantFrom his work as a Christian pastor to becoming a Bwiti initiate and leader in psychedelic research, Dr. Barsuglia brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and deep spiritual insight to the podcast. He offers a rare perspective on how psychedelics like ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT can address trauma in ways modern medicine is only beginning to understand, while his journey highlights the potential for integrating spiritual beliefs with therapeutic practice, making this conversation especially meaningful for those exploring the intersection of modern psychology, spirituality, and Bwiti wisdom.Relevant Links Dr. Joseph Barsuglia’s website Psychedelic Journeys Dr. Barsuglia’s Observational Research Dr. Barsuglia’s Peer-Reviewed Work Dr. Barsuglia’s Blog Dr. Barsuglia on LinkedIn

William Leonard Pickard is a former research associate in neurobiology at Harvard Medical School, Harvard fellow in drug policy at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, and Deputy Director of the Drug Policy Analysis Program at UCLA. His 1996 prediction of the fentanyl epidemic was published by RAND in The Future of Fentanyl and Other Synthetic Opioids. Also known as the Acid King, Pickard was the central figure in the largest LSD manufacturing case in history. Manufacturing tens of millions of doses with a partner, at its height, Pickard’s lab produced up to a kilogram of LSD approximately every five weeks. He was eventually found guilty at trial of conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and dispense ten grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and received two life sentences.On July 27, 2020, Pickard was granted compassionate release from federal prison 20 years into his sentence. In this episode, Beond co-founder Talia Eisenberg joins Ibogaine Uncovered as co-host.What We Discuss Leonard’s introduction to psychedelics The motivation behind manufacturing such vast amounts of LSD A different kind of trip: what life in a maximum security prison was like How Leonard’s time as an underground chemist influences his current work Predicting the fentanyl crisis before it began The state of ibogaine treatment: Leonard’s ongoing research Challenges facing the psychedelic treatment industryWhy It’s ImportantWilliam Leonard Pickard’s influence on the current psychedelic landscape cannot be overstated. His commitment to cognitive liberty is balanced with a conservative approach towards how psychedelics including ibogaine should be regulated and consumed. His life story encapsulates America’s fraught relationship with drugs, from his 1996 prediction of the fentanyl crisis, to serving 20 years in a maximum security prison for conspiring to manufacture LSD. This storied background lends to unparalleled insights on the use of psychedelics, and informs his ongoing research of ibogaine treatment centers and retreats.Relevant Links William Leonard Pickard’s Bio The “acid king” prognosticates: 5 Questions for William Leonard Pickard (The Microdose) The Future of Fentanyl and Other Synthetic Opioids (2019 paper referencing Pickard’s work) The Acid King (Rolling Stone) DEA news release: Conviction for largest LSD lab seizure in history (2003) DEA news release: Pickard And Apperson Sentenced On LSD Charges (2003) Leonard’s book, The Rose of Paracelsus

Lori Losch is a certified addiction recovery and psychedelic integration coach, and a member of Beond’s therapeutic coaching team. She’s also a best-selling author, wellness advocate, adventure enthusiast, and self-proclaimed lifelong truth seeker who happens to have been my coach during my 2022 ibogaine journey at Beond. Lori has worked with several medicines including ayahuasca, ketamine, psilocybin, and 5-MeO-DMT, but says ibogaine holds a special place in her heart as it launched her into her own personal healing. As a coach, she helps clients with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, alcoholism, and consumerism. As Lori likes to say, coaching clients “from survival to soul-thrival” is her honor and privilege.What We Discuss Lori’s own personal journey: from real estate to addiction recovery and psychedelic integration Why ibogaine is such an important part of Lori’s healing journey, and how it’s compared to other medicines for her What happens when someone’s biggest mess becomes their biggest message: Lori’s experience with bulimia The most essential steps when preparing for a psychedelic journey How to support clients through integration when psychedelics bring up deeply rooted emotional and psychological issues Common misconceptions about using psychedelics in addiction recovery Helping clients find freedom with food and their bodies: key steps How coaching transforms lives Coaching coaches: Lori’s advice for people aspiring to work in the psychedelic communityWhy It’s ImportantOur conversation dives deep into the transformative power of psychedelics, particularly ibogaine, in the context of healing and personal growth. Lori’s unique perspective as both a coach and someone who has undergone her own intense journey with bulimia and recovery offers invaluable insights into the potential of these medicines to not only treat maladaptive coping mechanisms but also transform lives. Her expertise in guiding clients from the depths of survival to thriving provides a roadmap for those seeking freedom from anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and addiction. This discussion highlights the importance of proper preparation and integration in the psychedelic experience, debunks common misconceptions, and underscores the profound impact of coaching in the burgeoning field of psychedelic-assisted therapy.Relevant Links Books by Lori Losch

Identical twin sisters Cipriana Quann and TK Wonder have been using their platforms to speak on diversity, inclusivity, and the power of sisterhood for over a decade. Hosts of the Chew on Something podcast, Cipriana and TK are also part of Urban Bush Babes, a lifestyle website dedicated to supporting, encouraging and highlighting the multifaceted lives of women of color. While Cipriana is a former Vogue writer, TK Wonder is a rapper and singer who has opened for artists like Nas and Afrika Bambaataa. Together they have been featured in commercials and campaigns for Fendi, Valentino, Tiffany Co., and Sephora, just to name a few; and are the first two Black American sisters to be on the cover of Harper's Bazaar Netherlands.As advocates for survivors of sexual, physical, and mental childhood abuse, Cipriana and TK have been very open with their audiences about their shared experience, and the health issues that stemmed from their trauma. Having used sugar as a way to cope, they have rewritten their relationships with food and health. Ibogaine has also been a valuable part of their healing journeys, together and individually. What We Discuss Life as identical twins: similarities, differences, and how Cipriana and TK influence each other Transparency and authenticity: how Cipriana and TK decide what to share with their audience when it comes to trauma and healing What informed Cipriana and TK’s perspective of psychedelics before being introduced to them as a healing modality How psychedelics are perceived in the Black community How people in the psychedelic realm can work to ensure people of color not only have access to but are an active part of building the environment within which psychedelics are more widely available How they came to realize it was time to implement lifestyle changes around food How ibogaine has impacted TK’s relationship with sugar Loving nudges: How Cipriana and TK encourage each other Integration practices: breathwork, movement, music, and writingWhy It’s ImportantAs identical twins navigating life together, Cipriana and TK offer unique insights into the importance of transparency and authenticity in addressing personal and collective challenges. Their candid discussions on childhood trauma, their evolving relationship with nutrition, and their transformative experiences with psychedelics, particularly ibogaine, shed light on the complexities of healing. By sharing their journey, Cipriana and TK provide inspiration and practical advice on integrating holistic practices into day-to-day life. This conversation is essential for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of healing, the role of psychedelics in that process, and the critical need for inclusivity in the psychedelic realm.Relevant Links TK Wonder on Instagram Cipriana Quann on Instagram Chew on Something Official podcast Harpers Bazaar Netherlands cover​​ TK Wonder and Cipriana Quann in Masthead Magazine The Unlikely Professional Who Helped Heal Childhood Trauma (The Cut) Cipriana’s TEDxFIT Talk Cipriana & TK Quann, Urban Bush Babes

Brothers Naithon and Kris Cook, also known by their stage names, Holistic Meditation and Emcee Monkey D., are a dynamic hip hop duo you may have seen on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. They go by the Freedom Renegades, and they rap about consciousness, but in a hard-hitting style influenced by old-school legends like Rakim and Scarface. In their own words, they are “two brothers on the adventure of a lifetime, making beautiful music for beautiful people.” Well versed in the psychedelic realm, Nate and Kris recently returned from a trip to Beond where they took ibogaine for the first time. To end their 10-day stay, they played a concert for guests and staff. What We Disscuss What separates the Freedom Renegades from other hip hop artists What influences their music Looking at the lyrics of “One Last Ride” What it’s like to freestyle for 2 hours a day on TikTok Nate & Kris’ different expectations and experiences of ibogaine Being in the same room together during treatment How they are integrating their experience How ibogaine has influenced their creative processWhy It’s ImportantAs the Freedom Renegades, Nate and Kris write lyrics with the goal of uplifting and inspiring listeners, drawing on musical and spiritual influences alike to deliver a message that you won’t find on the latest Billboard chart. Though Nate and Kris are the first guests on this show to have been in the same room together during their treatment, they had very different journeys. Learning about their experiences with ibogaine provides insight into how distinctly personal an experience with this medicine can be, and how one’s creative process might be influenced by a deep psychedelic journey. Relevant Links Freedom Renegades official website Freedom Renegades on YouTube Holistic Meditation on TikTok Emcee Monkey D. on TikTok Holistic Meditation on Spotify Introducing The Freedom Renegades, a Rap Duo on the Rise

Certified sex addiction therapist Gary Katz is back for a second episode following a recent men’s retreat at Beond. Gary is the founder for the Center for Intimacy Recovery in New York. He has been trained in a variety of modalities including sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR. Gary joins us again to dive back into the subject of sex addiction, this time answering questions we didn’t get to cover in our last discussion, and discussing the retreat for men suffering from sex addiction. Why Gary decided to become a sex therapist after 20 years in education Self-awareness: What are the signs that one’s sexual behaviors are becoming problematic? Denial as a result of shame and guilt The first line of treatment Talk therapy: How effective is it? Where does it lack? Men’s retreat: Why six men joined Gary at Beond in May Feedback post-ibogaine treatment The importance of preparation and integrationWhy it’s important:Where much of Gary’s last appearance on the show was dedicated to unpacking the “what” and “why” of sex addiction, this episode speaks to the “how”: how to identify it, and how to treat it. Gary discusses the experience of witnessing six men dealing with different levels of compulsive or destructive sexual or intimate behaviors, who traveled to Beond to receive ibogaine treatment and engage in twice-daily group therapy sessions. How did they come to a place of feeling better? Gary highlights the importance of honesty, accountability, preparation, and integration, and reminds us that when it comes to using psychedelics or engaging in healing work of any kind, we’re all starting at different places and moving at different paces. Relevant links: Ibogaine Uncovered: Episode 31: Ibogaine for Sex Addiction and Betrayal Trauma The Center for Intimacy Recovery About Gary Center for Intimacy Recovery: Men’s Retreat Statistics on Sex Addiction in America

Tom Feegel is an entrepreneur, founder and the CEO of Beond. When he and his partner Talia Eisenberg, who we’ve had on the show before, co-founded Beond in early 2022, Tom was the first person to undergo treatment. Since then, he’s witnessed thousands of ibogaine treatments under an ever-improving set of protocols and standards. What we discuss:  Three unique characteristics of ibogaine when compared to other psychedelics What “the intellectual’s psychedelic” means How Tom knew he was ready for ibogaine Unpacking Tom’s life review on ibogaine How Tom’s ibogaine experience – and all other subsequent treatments – have informed Beond’s treatment process The importance of preparation and integration Tom’s vital spiritual practices Reflecting on growth and looking ahead to emerging research Why it’s important: Tom offers a unique perspective – not just on Beond itself, but on the experience of ibogaine. Combined with his personal experience, the sheer volume of transformations he’s been able to witness provide him with an intimate understanding of how much has changed and improved in the nearly three years that Beond has been in operation. As he describes it, the team’s focus is not on being the best, but on “being the best at getting better.” Tom speaks from his heart, offering reflections on his own experience with ibogaine, spirituality, and fatherhood – and reminding us of some valuable life lessons that can only be taught by children. Relevant Links: The Cure to The Opioid Epidemic in America Psychedelics Treatment for Addiction and Emotional Trauma with Tom Feegel More on Tom Feegel via the Beond Blog

Vinessa Antoine is an award-winning actress, filmmaker and writer. She has played roles in various Canadian and American television shows including The Resident, Interrogation, Ginny & Georgia, Heartland, and Being Erica. In 2018, Vinessa made history by becoming the first black Canadian person to lead a dramatic show in Canada. She recently finished shooting another leading role in the dramatic series Plan B, scheduled to air in fall of 2024. She is currently working on a groundbreaking documentary series that challenges viewers to unlearn conventional wisdom, embrace change, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. What we discuss:  Vinessa’s primary motivation for seeking out ibogaine treatment Expectations of the ibogaine journey The visual experience: what Vinessa was shown by ibogaine What it was like to share the experience with a family member Life pre-ibogaine vs. life now: impact on career, family, motherhood Vinessa’s experience with the healing and wellness space Red flags in the wellness industry Vinessa’s upcoming docuseries: what to expect Why it’s important: Vinessa experienced ibogaine treatment at Beond a few months ago, and was primarily motivated to go to supper her brother, who was seeking help with substance use. Her journey proved to be about much more than supporting her brother. Vinessa reflects on her experience, describing the intense visual journey she was taken on by ibogaine and the lessons she learned about herself along the way. She also explains how her treatment has impacted a docuseries that aims to inspire a movement for change and empower individuals to take charge of their own lives.  Relevant Links: Vinessa Antoine - IMDB Vinessa’s Instagram

Dr. Dalibor Sames is a professor of chemistry at Columbia University, where he runs an independent research program dedicated to studying and developing drugs that induce neuroplasticity. After developing what he describes as “aesthetic admiration” for the molecular structure of ibogaine, Dr. Sames began studying ibogaine and iboga alkaloids, and soon after went on to develop ibogaine analogues as novel therapeutics. He is working to develop these drugs further as the co-founder of two start-up pharmaceutical companies, Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals (which recently signed a deal to collaborate with AbbVie) and KURES.  What we discuss:  Dr. Sames’ aesthetic admiration for ibogaine “New chemical entities:” Why create analogs to ibogaine? Do we need them? The unique molecular structure of ibogaine Ibogaine’s mechanism of action: how it compares to other psychedelics How small changes in the structure of ibogaine lead to significant differences in its pharmacology Oxa-ibogaine: potential safety and efficacy Ibogaine as a teacher and gate opener Collaborating with big pharma: Is ‘the trip’ necessary? Why it’s important: For as long as psychedelic drugs have re-entered the mainstream, the question has been posed: why spend time and money developing alternatives to psychedelics when we can spend that time and money studying the ones we already use? (It’s a question the host of our show has asked herself many times.) In this episode, Dr. Dalibor Sames makes a great case for developing ibogaine analogues, especially with regard to the cardiac risks associated with the drug. Dr. Sames also describes ibogaine in a way we haven’t heard before on this show, detailing the many complexities of the molecule and explaining how a simple change to its structure (such as swapping its nitrogen indole for oxygen) can have a massive impact on its effects. Relevant Links: Dr. Dalibor Sames’ Bio The Sames Research Group Experimental Therapeutics, Basic Science and Drug Development (Sames Group) Gilgamesh Pharmaceutical AbbVie and Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals Announcement (May 13, 2024) Novel Class of Psychedelic Iboga Alkaloids Disrupts Opioid Use

Gary Katz is a certified sex addiction therapist and a certified partner trauma therapist, as well as the founder for the Center for Intimacy Recovery in New York. He has been trained in a variety of modalities including sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR. Prior to opening the Center for Intimacy Recovery, Gary worked in education for more than 20 years. He is also an ordained rabbi. Gary joins us on to discuss sex addiction, betrayal trauma, and the potential that ibogaine has to heal people on both ends of the spectrum. What we discuss:  What is sex addiction? What it’s like to live with compulsive sexual behavior ‘Rock Bottom’ when you’re struggling with sex addiction Gary’s personal experience with ibogaine What makes ibogaine interesting from a therapist’s perspective? Defining betrayal trauma Working with betrayal trauma: how it differs from working with people dealing with compulsive sexual behavior How ibogaine helped a group of women suffering from betrayal trauma Treatment options: Standard of care vs. ibogaineWhy it’s important: This is the first episode of Ibogaine Uncovered in which we discuss a very real (and incredibly misunderstood) maladaptive coping mechanism: compulsive sexual behavior (also known as sex addiction). While this topic may not get as much coverage as substance or alcohol use disorder, an estimated 3-6% of Americans struggle with it everyday. Gary Katz explains what the spectrum of compulsive sexual behavior can look like, how compulsive sexual behavior can lead to betrayal trauma, and the role ibogaine can play in helping both those with compulsive sexual behaviors and those who have experienced betrayal. Relevant Links: The Center for Intimacy Recovery About Gary Retreat for Betrayed Partners Statistics on Sex Addiction in America What is Betrayal Trauma?

Kevin Franciotti is a co-founder and the board president of Psychedelics in Recovery (PIR), a fellowship of people in 12-step programs who also have an interest in psychedelics as an aid to their recovery. Kevin has been involved in drug policy advocacy, mental health training and education, and a provider of therapeutic services for 16 years. He’ What we discuss:   How PIR differs from traditional recovery programs The origins of PIR Who can join PIR? Kevin’s personal connection to PIR Where the idea of using psychedelics in conjunction with recovery originated What does a PIR meeting look like?Do members of PIR take part in AA/NA? Common criticisms of PIR Does using psychedelics in recovery impact one’s risk for relapse? The story of PIR’s membership growth Why has the idea of using psychedelics in recovery become so popular? Is PIR harm reduction?  How PIR fits in with other organizations in the recovery and psychedelics spaces Why it’s important: For some, the idea of using psychedelics while recovering from an addiction to another substance or behavior might seem counterintuitive. Kevin Franciotti makes the case for Psychedelics in Recovery (both the fellowship and the concept), using his own journey as a backdrop.  Kevin is also realistic about the fellowship: while PIR certainly fits the definition of harm reduction, using psychedelics in recovery does not come without the risk of relapse. The dramatic growth of PIR during and after the Covid-19 pandemic illustrates that although it is beyond time to embrace alternatives to traditional recovery programs, many people still see incredible value in the 12-step framework.  Relevant Links: Kevin Franciotti’s website Psychedelics in Recovery website The early history of Psychedelics in Recovery Bill Wilson, LSD and the Role that Psychedelics Played in the History of Alcoholics Anonymous (excerpt) Canada’s rich and complicated history of psychedelic research (Leafly) Alcoholics Anonymous: The 12 Steps of AA & Success Rates Oregon takes massive step toward recriminalizing drug possession (Oregon Public Broadcasting)

Tommy Aceto is a former US Navy Seal and intelligence officer, a father, a breakthrough therapies advocate, a writer and director, a life coach and retreat coordinator, and veteran mental health chief officer at the Give to Give Foundation. Tommy served as a US Navy Seal for 16 years, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and the Pacific Islands, and eventually becoming a basic underwater demolition Seal instructor where he developed training curriculums for close quarter combat, combat diving, and more. Tommy credits ibogaine for helping him overcome PTSD, traumatic brain injury and alcoholism and is committed to spreading the word about psychedelic medicine to others in need. What we discuss: Who was Tommy Aceto before ibogaine? The mental health treatment options available to veterans after their service What it’s like to witness transformation in other vets as a retreat coordinator and psychedelic integration coach Other valuable tools that have been a part of Tommy’s healing journey The inspiration behind Tommy’s Instagram handle, flowstatefrogman The value of movement, sport, and physical challenges in the context of mental health Unpacking the statement, “be careful of your belief systems because they are your biggest limiting factor” What it means to “take your pain and turn it into passion,” and how Tommy is pursuing his passion through storytelling Tommy’s message to politicians who insist on denying the power of psychedelics, and the work he’s doing for veterans in Washington, DCWhy it’s important: I first caught wind of Tommy’s profound experience with ibogaine when he testified in front of the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commision in September of 2023. His story of resilience was one I knew we had to feature on Ibogaine Uncovered. Tommy’s transition from traumatized veteran to proud breakthrough therapies advocate and mental health ally is a true testament to the power of ibogaine – a drug that remains illegal in the United States despite mounting evidence that it could improve the lives of millions of Americans who suffer from opioid dependence, alcoholism, PTSD, TBI, and more. Relevant Links: Tommy’s Instagram profile Tommy Aceto on LinkedIn Kentucky’s Risky Million-Dollar Bet to Fight the Opioid Crisis With Psychedelics Kentucky Commission holds hearing on $42M funding for ibogaine research Ibogaine Treatment for PTSD & TBI | Tommy Aceto - Testimony at the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, Sept 2023 (YouTube)

Anthony Esposito and Amber Antonelli are the co-founders of Awaken Your Soul, an iboga retreat center in Costa Rica. Both Anthony and Amber are Bwiti initiates and iboga providers who have been working with the medicine for quite some time – over a decade for Anthony and about eight years for Amber. Amber also serves as chief of the village at the center, which is situated on nearly 100 acres of lush jungle. What we discuss: The reputation of iboga as intense: is this a well-earned reputation, or is there more to it? Different factors that influence the intensity of an iboga experience: dose, set and setting, facilitation, and resistance The importance of being trauma-informed – and what that really means The energy of iboga: masculine, feminine, or both? The shifting spiritual awareness of people who are seeking out iboga Who makes a good candidate for an iboga retreat? How the iboga experience differs from the ibogaine experience (how the medicine is administered, set and setting, music, and more) How to deal with resistance when it arises in guests Lessons from the medicine, from Gabon to Costa RicaWhy it’s important: Iboga is often described as “intense” – this is why many refer to it as the “Mount Everest” of psychedelics. As Anthony and Amber explain, while there are certainly elements of an iboga experience that can be quite intense, there are several factors that can impact that intensity. We hear that when it comes to iboga, a small dose goes a long way, and that feelings of resistance can actually turn up the intensity dial significantly. Anthony and Amber dive into some of the key differences between iboga and ibogaine, not just in the way that they are administered, but also when it comes to why someone may seek out one over the other. They hone in on the importance of meeting people where they are at, wherever that might be on their journey – even if it’s deep in a state of resistance – and share vulnerable moments from their own path as Bwiti initiates and iboga providers. Relevant Links: Awaken Your Soul website Awaken Your Soul Instagram Anthony Esposito - Bio Amber Antonelli - Bio Using Iboga for More Than Just Addiction Treatment 13 Tips for Navigating an Iboga Ceremony 11 Tips for Integrating Iboga & Other Psychedelics

Joshua White is a lawyer, peer support advocate, psychedelic researcher, and the founder and executive director of Fireside Project. He believes in the power of peer support and the role of support lines like Fireside Project as foundational components of an equitable mental health ecosystem. Joshua joins Ibogaine Uncovered to discuss the role and value of non-clinical support in the psychedelic space, and to share about his recent ibogaine experience at Beond.What we discuss: How Joshua’s experience with the Zendo Project and Safe and Sound’s Talk Line for Parents informed the creation of Fireside Project What volunteer experience taught him about the value of peer support Is the emphasis on therapists in the psychedelic space problematic? The role of non-clinical support (including coaches and peer support) in the psychedelic space Essential ingredients for building a safe psychedelic container, from a peer’s perspective Key questions to ask when looking for a psychedelic facilitator,  why it’s important to be thorough when making your selection How practitioners can maintain healthy relationships with their clients/peers The intersection of medicalization and spirituality within the ibogaine experience: is it possible to have a transformative experience in a hospital bed? The role of peer support in making psychedelic treatment more accessible, particularly to BIPOC and vulnerable populations What the future of ibogaine treatment could look like if scaledWhy it’s important: As more people look to psychedelic medicines to improve their health and well-being, it’s clear that a model that requires two therapists to sit with every individual receiving psychedelic therapy is not scalable. Joshua underscores the need for more non-clinical support in the psychedelic realm, including coaches and peer supporters like the ones at Fireside Project. Not only is peer support more accessible, he suggests it may also offer a psychedelic journeyer more of what they need before and after a transformative experience, especially depending on a peer’s familiarity with psychedelics. As Josh experienced during his time at Beond, having the right support, whether clinical or not, helps create a safe container for a psychedelic journey – whether that journey takes place in the Amazon, or in a hospital bed at an ibogaine treatment center in Cancun.Relevant Links: Fireside Project How Effective Is Fireside Project’s Psychedelic Hotline? New Study Aims To Find Out Fireside Project: The Psychedelic Support Line Matching Callers With BIPOC, Trans, And Veteran Volunteers Warning Signs When Selecting a Psychedelic Facilitator Questions to Discuss with a Prospective Psychedelic Facilitator

Bryan Hubbard is a lawyer and the former chairman and executive director of the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission (KOAAC). Tasked with allocating an $842-million settlement from opioid manufacturers after the courts found that the products they sold contributed to thousands of deaths in the state, Bryan and other members of the commission were appointed by Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron in June 2022. In just 18 months, Bryan’s work put ibogaine in the spotlight. After learning about the psychedelic’s anti-addictive properties in the summer of 2022, he brought the idea of spending a portion of the settlement funds on ibogaine research to the AG, and in May 2023 they announced the commission’s intention to allocate $42 million to a public-private research partnership with a focus on ibogaine for substance use disorder. He was asked to step down from the role in December 2023.What we discuss: How Bryan’s previous work as a public attorney prepared him for the work he went on to do for the KOAAC How he learned about ibogaine and his motivations for taking it the commission, even when it was clear there would be a lot of political pushback How political opposition impacted the commission’s interest in ibogaine Why the ibogaine initiative is no longer on the table in Kentucky Responding to claims that the ibogaine initiative was a “misuse of funds” and “corporate R&D” The effect that public hearings had on people who were either ambivalent or opposed to ibogaine research The lack of efficacy of existing treatments Reconciling one’s faith in God, the hope that psychedelics present, and what we’ve been programmed to believe about drugs (in the church and beyond) Next steps for Bryan: interest from other states in ibogaineWhy it’s important: In the short time that Bryan held the position of chairman and executive director of the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, he was able to present ibogaine, a relatively obscure psychedelic substance, as a potential treatment for a crisis that has impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans – and people paid attention. While in the end, it seems unlikely the commission will be moving forward with the proposal, Bryan’s championing of ibogaine was successful in creating a groundswell of support for an alternative treatment option in a part of the country not exactly known for being progressive. What’s more, as a result of Bryan’s work, many who had firmly placed themselves in the anti-ibogaine camp were so moved by what they heard at public hearings that they’re motivated to see the initiative through. Although Bryan has moved on from his role in Kentucky, other states have now expressed interest in picking up where he left off. Relevant Links: Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission Could an illegal psychedelic substance ease the opioid crisis? Daniel Cameron wants to find out. Kentucky’s Risky Million-Dollar Bet to Fight the Opioid Crisis With Psychedelics Could a little-known psychedelic drug treat opioid addiction? Kentucky wants to find out. Kentucky Shelves Plan to Use Opioid Settlement Cash for Ibogaine Pilot The Big Money Behind Kentucky AG Daniel Cameron's Bizarre Psychedelic Drug Crusade On Politics: Here's why Andy Beshear might not want to talk about Purdue Pharma

Amber Capone is the CEO and co-founder at Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS). Four years ago, she walked away from a successful career in real estate to serve in these roles, determined to improve the life of her family and others who were suffering after her husband Marcus underwent a powerful transformation with the help of ibogaine. Marcus Capone – who intended to join us but couldn’t make it – is an entrepreneur & veteran Navy SEAL who was medically retired from active duty in 2013 after 13 years of service in Special Operations, including 6 combat tours at Seal Team 10 and Seal Team 6. Today he’s the chairman and co-founder of VETS. VETS is a non-profit organization founded by Marcus and Amber, intent on ending the veteran suicide epidemic by providing resources, research, and advocacy for U.S. military veterans seeking psychedelic assisted therapy for traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and other health conditions. What we discuss: The challenges associated with Marcus’ retirement and return to civilian life, including struggles with TBI, PTSD, depression, anger and substance use, and the impact that had on Amber’s role as a wife and mother The specific challenges that veterans face as they try to navigate treatment options The role that stigma plays among veterans and how it can often prevent them from seeking treatment How Marcus and Amber learned about ibogaine, and the point of complete desperation they were at when they found it How a lack of preparedness for treatment helped Amber and Marcus develop programming at VETS to prevent them from experiencing the same thing The shift that Marcus experienced after ibogaine Talking about psychedelic treatment with their children Amber’s struggle to reconcile ibogaine’s healing ability with her faith in God The support options offered by VETS, and VETS involvement in a recent Stanford study looking at ibogaine featuring Dr. Nolan Williams Recent advancements in support for improved veteran careWhy it’s important: Amber and her husband Marcus have been advocating for access to psychedelic assisted therapy, particularly ibogaine treatment, since 2018 and have quickly become the faces of the movement. Their story and their work are prime examples of how, when the situation feels absolutely hopeless, a single profound psychedelic experience can be a complete game-changer – and in turn, how that game-changing experience often leads to an undeniable sense that it must be shared with others who have experienced the same hopelessness. Relevant Links: VETS Website VA PTSD Statistics The stigma that stops veterans from getting help for PTSD (PBS) How psychedelic healing helps traumatized veterans (Spectrum News) Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in the US Veteran Population: Results From the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study The purple politics of veterans and psychedelics: 5 Questions for Amber Capone, co-founder of VETS Amber on Psyched, a podcast by Kaia Roman

Dr. Nolan Williams is an Associate Professor within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Director of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab. He is triple board-certified in general neurology, general psychiatry, as well as behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry. Dr. Williams joins Ibogaine Uncovered to discuss his recently published study, Magnesium–ibogaine therapy in veterans with traumatic brain injuries. Published in Nature Medicine, it evaluates 30 Special Ops veterans with predominantly mild TBI who each independently scheduled themselves for ibogaine treatment at a center in Mexico, where they also engaged in activities like breathwork and yoga, and spoke with therapists and coaches. Don’t read too much into the word “mild” here – as you’ll hear from Dr. Williams, people suffering from TBI are more often than not also dealing with other health conditions including PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidality. Participants in the study were referred by Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), a non-profit organization dedicated to ending veteran suicide.What we discuss: Dr. Williams’ first impression of ibogaine: how he went from being skeptical to calling it “the most sophisticated pharmacological agent in the world” Why it was important for Dr. Williams to study ibogaine treatment on Special Ops veterans The changes Dr. Williams and his team witnessed in participants after they underwent ibogaine treatment The role of magnesium in the protocol and what his team was able to show as it relates to heart health during treatment  What we know about the dreamlike state of consciousness facilitated by ibogaine Ibogaine as a “dirty drug” and the analogy of the modern key What Dr. Williams meant when he said ibogaine led to“a Benjamin-Buttoning of the brain,” and the implications of such a change for people with TBI and PTSD The study’s limitations Which other populations could potentially benefit from ibogaine treatment? The role of research in affecting drug policyWhy it’s important: The first-of-its-kind neuroimaging study found that ibogaine could effectively treat TBI and PTSD in Special Ops veterans while improving cognitive function. Ibogaine treatment also reduced the veterans’ average rating on a disability assessment scale. Before treatment, the average rating of participants in the study indicated mild to moderate disability. A month later, their ratings indicated no disability. Remarkably, 88% experienced a reduction in PTSD symptoms, 87% experienced a reduction in depression symptoms, and 81% experienced a reduction in anxiety, while suicidal ideation decreased from 47% to 7% one month following treatment. All this to say, this new study led by Dr. Williams and conducted by his team at Stanford is playing a role in  taking ibogaine out of the category of obscure psychedelic and placing it into the category of potential breakthrough therapy. The numbers speak for themselves, as does the mainstream media coverage of the publication. As Dr. Williams points out, research still has much to reveal about this powerful plant medicine, but for now,  this study indicates that ibogaine could be a treatment option for a condition from which many people fail to find relief.Relevant Links: Dr. Nolan Williams: Stanford Profile Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab Magnesium–ibogaine therapy in veterans with traumatic brain injuries (Nature Medicine) Pre-post Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Ibogaine-Magnesium Therapy in Veterans With Repeated Blast Exposure (ClinicalTrials.gov) 0665 Ibogaine treatment in combat Veterans significantly improves sleep, beyond alleviating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder symptoms (Sleep Research Society) Psychedelic drug ibogaine shows preliminary promise for traumatic brain injury: Study (ABC News) How psychoactive drug ibogaine may help military veterans with traumatic brain injuries (Medical News Today)

Ben "Doc" Askins is a physician assistant, US army captain, author and podcast host. He has two decades of experience practicing and teaching wilderness, tactical, and expeditionary medicine in the military. As a civilian, he is certified with the Multidisciplinary Association on Psychedelic Studies in MDMA-assisted therapy, and is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant offering ketamine assisted therapy in Kentucky. Doc is a National Outdoor Leadership school alum, a veteran of the Global War on Terrorism, and has postgraduate training in Neuropsychiatry and Genomics with a Masters in Divinity. Doc’s book, The Anti-Hero’s Journey: The Zero with a Thousand Faces, is described as a “warped war memoir about the way to attain enlightenment” (think of it as an integration therapy guide in the form of his life story). You might remember Doc from episode 22 – he was featured in our recap of the Kentucky Summit on Breakthrough Therapies for Opioid Use Disorder. What we discuss: Doc’s presence at the Kentucky Summit Why Doc thinks the idea of investing $42 million in ibogaine research in KY is “a terrible idea” A clinician’s perspective on ibogaine How Doc went from a straight-edge kid and member of the DARE club to a proponent of psychedelic assisted therapy America’s shifting perception of psychedelics Psychedelic assisted therapy for veterans The challenges of treating people suffering from suicidality Doc’s recommendations for post-treatment integration Reflecting on Doc’s book, The Anti-Hero’s JourneyWhy it’s important: With his strict Christian upbringing and army background, Doc might not be the first person you’d expect to be an advocate of breakthrough psychedelic therapies – but it’s precisely that background that qualifies him to speak to the ongoing crisis. As a Kentuckian with close personal connections to both the opioid and suidide crises, an active duty member of the Army National Guard, and a physician assistant (among many other things – he’s the first to call his background ‘eclectic’), Doc’s perspective on the state’s interest in funding ibogaine research is both well-informed and unique. He’s the first person I’ve heard call the plan “a terrible idea,” but not for the reason you might think. Speaking to his experience working in ketamine-assisted therapy, Doc offers insight into the kind of support a person suffering from suicidality requires, and explains why the window after a psychedelic experience is a critical time for people who have been facing treatment-resistant depression. Doc’s story is a testament to how tragedy can change our life’s course in an instant, and proof that even with years of “just say no” indoctrination, there’s hope that even the staunchly opposed could change their minds about psychedelic medicines like ibogaine. Relevant Links: Anti-Hero’s Journey website  Listen to Anti-Hero’s Journey podcast Ben “Doc” Askins on Instagram The Kentucky Summit on Exploring Breakthrough Therapeutic Potential for Opioid Use Disorder The Real Reason KY’s Attorney General Doesn’t Want My Opinion On Psychedelics (Brainz Magazine) An Open Letter To KY Governor Andy Beshear (Brainz Magazine) U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Statistics

In this episode, host Amanda Siebert recaps the recent Kentucky Summit on Exploring Breakthrough Therapeutic Potential for Opioid Use Disorder, which was held in La Grange, Kentucky on November 30. The event brought together practitioners, researchers, policy makers, caregivers, and members of the community to discuss and learn about ibogaine, a psychedelic medicine that has been shown to interrupt opioid use disorder. Kentucky is considering allocating $42 million to study ibogaine after the state received nearly $900 million in settlements from opioid producers and distributors for their role in exacerbating the overdose crisis. In this episode, Amanda gets vulnerable, opening up for the first time publicly about her personal connection to the overdose crisis, and draws connections between the crisis in the Bluegrass state and the province of British Columbia, before highlighting some key discussion points brought up during the summit.What’s covered Amanda’s personal connection to the overdose crisis By the numbers: the impact of the overdose crisis in BC and beyond Kentucky: one of America’s hardest hit states Learning about psychedelics for substance use The power of story Recapping Kentucky’s interest in ibogaine Summit recap: Rick Doblin, Dr. Deborah Mash, Juliana Mulligan Stories from panelists Ciprianna Quann, Talia Eisenberg, Ben “Doc” Askins, and Karen Butcher Fear and frustration around access to psychedelic treatment, especially for BIPOC communitiesWhy it’s important: The overdose crisis is not limited to Kentucky – It exists in varying degrees in every American state and Canadian province, cutting across demographic lines and impacting urban and rural areas alike. Even as psychedelics become part of the mainstream, it’s jarring to see a place like Kentucky be the first to consider funding ibogaine research. What the summit illustrated is that with all of our differences, whether geographical, political, spiritual, or cultural in nature, the pain associated with substance use disorder and overdose is universal, and can unify us to seek out alternative solutions. By the end of the summit, it was clear everyone in the room agreed on one thing: when it comes to substance use disorder in the state of Kentucky and beyond, it’s time to do something different.Relevant Links: The Kentucky Summit on Exploring Breakthrough Therapeutic Potential for Opioid Use Disorder Overdoses the leading cause of death in B.C. for those aged for 10 to 59: coroner Drug Overdose Deaths Drug Overdose Mortality by State Beyond Drugs: The Universal Experience of Addiction (Dr. Gabor Mate)

Amy Fillinger is a travel agent and mom of three living in Arkansas. When Amy discovered ibogaine through social media, she assumed she’d learned about it to help her ex-husband who was suffering from alcohol use disorder, until she realized it was a tool that could help her on her own healing journey. She underwent ibogaine treatment at Beond about six months prior to the recording of this episode to help her heal from codependency and post-traumatic stress. What we discuss: Codependency and the idea of “relationship addiction” Amy’s path to the medicine and her first impression of ibogaine How Amy was feeling mentally, emotionally and physically before her ibogaine treatment Amy’s understanding of her codependent behavior before treatment Her intentions for the ibogaine experience, including facilitating forgiveness and letting go of anger The insights Amy received in her journey about her life, and particularly about her future Amy’s use of social media to document her (continuing) journey Using movement as an integration tool The self-limiting beliefs Amy experienced as a result of being in a codependent relationship How Amy’s relationship with family and romantic partners have shifted since her treatment Amy’s advice for other people who may be struggling with codependent behaviorWhy it’s important: Codependency is a learned behavior that can be passed down from one generation to another. It is an emotional and behavioral condition that affects an individual’s ability to have a healthy, mutually satisfying relationship. Codependency is sometimes referred to as “relationship addiction” because people with codependency often form or maintain relationships that are one-sided, emotionally destructive or abusive. It often affects a spouse, parent, or sibling of a person suffering from substance use disorder. Some estimates suggest that over 90 percent of the American population demonstrates codependent behavior from time to time. Amy’s experience with ibogaine is another example of how this powerful psychedelic medicine can help us work through an incredible gamut of struggles, issues and maladaptive coping mechanisms, whether we’re dealing with an addiction to a substance, a behavior, or a way of thinking. Relevant Links: Codependency explainer on Mental Health America Prevalence of codependency in the United States Study: Living with Addicted Men and Codependency: The Moderating Effect of Personality Traits Amy’s Instagram

Tricia Eastman is an author, speaker, medicine woman, facilitator, and the founder of Ancestral Heart, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and deeper understanding of ancient ritual and Indigenous wisdom. Tricia is also the founder of Psychedelic Journeys, where she has curated transformative medicine experiences and retreats in different locations around the world and for which she is currently building a retreat center in the Azores Islands. Tricia has trained under two different Bwiti traditions and after nearly a decade of working with iboga, she has a deep understanding of its spiritual technology.What we discuss: Tricia’s introduction to the psychedelic realm and her experience working with different medicines, including iboga How ibogaine helped her overcome a lifelong struggle with eating disorders The different Bwiti traditions that she has been initiated into and trained under How stewardship informs Tricia’s work at Ancestral Heart and beyond The ritualistic use of iboga among the Bwiti for initiation The spiritual technology of iboga The difference between working with iboga in Gabon and receiving ibogaine in a clinic The cost of losing connection with ritual Are we being responsible stewards of this movement, and respectful of traditional practices and medicines that do not belong to us?  If not, what will it take?Why it’s important: Consider the definition of stewardship: the conducting, supervising, or managing of something, especially: the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one's care. Now consider that word in the context of iboga and ibogaine. In a recent article for Psychedelic Alpha, author and medicine woman Tricia Eastman and co-author Dr. Joseph Barsuglia suggest that we ought to have a nuanced appreciation of stewardship in the context of iboga; considering it both an appreciation of the responsibility we owe to the cultures and ecosystems from which iboga is derived, and also the safety of those who ingest it. In this episode, Tricia, the founder of Ancestral Heart and Psychedelic Journeys, explains how connection to ritual helps build that appreciation, and how, without proper care, rushing to legalize or decriminalize iboga could have unintended consequences. The show ends with the question posed in the title: Are we being responsible stewards of this movement, and respectful of traditional practices and medicines that do not belong to us? Keep listening to find out. Relevant Links: Psychedelic Alpha article, “Ibogaine’s Surge in Popularity Could Be a Huge Loss for the Gabonese People Unless We Shift Course” Ancestral Heart website Psychedelic Journeys website Tricia Eastman on Instagram Stewardship definition, Merriam-Webster

David Nassim is the co-director of Blessings of the Forest (BOTF), an organization that supports environmental and traditionalist associations, Indigenous communities and administrative authorities committed to the preservation and sustainable development of Gabon’s natural and cultural heritage – including the preservation of iboga, the West African plant from which ibogaine is derived. David is also the organization’s international relations and finance officer, and a practitioner and Chinese medicine consultant. You might remember David from our interview at Psychedelic Science 2023, featured in Episode 16.What we discuss: The work that BOTF does and its role in the iboga supply chain The Nagoya Protocol: What it is, and how it informs the protection of the iboga plant and the communities that use it  The unseen challenges of working closely with a large number of different organizations, associations, and communities The role of iboga in David’s life, and the different Bwiti traditions that he has worked with How iboga is viewed globally: the different interpretations and understandings in the United States and Gabon What is at the root of the reverence Gabonese people have for iboga? The implications of Western interest, namely the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Program and its interest in ibogaine What questions to ask when determining how a practitioner has obtained iboga/ibogaine Is there any overlap between what you’ve learned from Chinese Medicine, and from your work with iboga?Why it’s important: In North America, ibogaine is a compound that most people associate with opioid use disorder, but in West Africa, specifically in Gabon, ibogaine is just one part of a much greater whole. In this episode, David Nassim explains in great detail the implications of increased global interest in the iboga plant for the Bwiti communities that depend on it. By leaning on the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing, Blessings of the Forest is working to protect and preserve iboga while building meaningful relationships directly with communities that require support. David’s insights and understanding bring the issue of reciprocity into sharp focus, and challenge us to consider the global implications of pursuing a treatment like ibogaine.Relevant Links: Blessings of the Forest website The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing Blessings of the Forest on Instagram Lucid News story featuring David: Gabon Takes First Step Toward Legal Export of Sustainable Iboga Ibogaine Uncovered: Episode 16 - The State of Ibogaine: A Psychedelic Science Recap ICEERS Report - The Future of Iboga: Perspectives from Central Africa

Dr. Gül Dölen, MD, PhD, is an associate professor of neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University. In her lab, her team focuses on how the brain enables social behaviors through basic neurobiological processes such as neuromodulation and synaptic plasticity. Dölen has led several headline-making studies in the psychedelic field, including one in 2018 that involved giving MDMA to octopuses, and a more recent study that revealed psychedelics can reopen the “critical period” in the brain.What we discuss: How Dr. Dölen became interested in studying psychedelics after focusing on learning and memory as well as the pathogenesis of autism The study that turned things around: why study the effects of psychedelics in an evolutionarily distant species like the octopus? What giving octopuses MDMA revealed about their normally solitary behavior The implications in the world of psychedelic science after studying their effects on this kind of animal Defining critical periods: What are they? What are the benefits of experiencing a critical period? Dr. Dölen’s hypothesis: Could psychedelics be the “master key” to reopening critical periods? Which drugs are best at reopening critical periods? Where does ibogaine stand? Are there any risks associated with experiencing an abundance of critical periods? The problem with the word ‘plasticity’Why it’s important: Dr. Dölen’s pioneering research–both the study of MDMA in octopuses and her more recent work on unlocking critical periods–allows us to look at psychedelic drugs in different ways: in evolutionarily distant species with entirely different brain structures, and as “master keys” that could potentially unlock those periods. While there aren’t many studies that put different psychedelic drugs on a spectrum of efficacy, her work shows that among MDMA, LSD, psilocybin, and ketamine, ibogaine leads the way when it comes to opening critical periods – a piece of information that (hopefully) encourages more scientists in the psychedelic space to study this powerful medicine. Relevant Links: Dr. Dölen’s faculty profile on Johns Hopkins Dr. Dölen, Center for Psychedelic & Consciousness Research, JHU Spectrum News: In Deep Water with Gül Dölen The Tim Ferriss Show: Dr. Gül Dölen  dölenLAB  Nature: Octopuses on ecstasy just want a cuddle Wired: The Psychedelic Scientist Who Sends Brains Back to Childhood The Microdose: 5 Questions for Gul Dolen

Curious about the process of applying for ibogaine treatment? Want to know more about how staff screen potential clients? In this episode, Amanda Siebert is joined by two previous guests, Beond co-founder Talia Eisenberg and VP of clinical operations, Vianey “Nurse V” Perez, for a deep dive on Beond’s intake process, including details on medical screening, personalized care, and potential challenges or red flags. What we discuss: Why a person might seek out ibogaine treatment The length of time the intake process takes: if I were to inquire tomorrow, what’s the earliest I could be in treatment? How involved the medical team is in the intake process What makes someone a good candidate for ibogaine treatment?  What if someone has failed at other types of treatment? Potential red-flags Challenges that clients might face while in treatment Do people ever have to leave treatment? What’s the protocol?Why it’s important: Deciding to pursue treatment with a psychedelic drug as powerful and potent as ibogaine can come with a hefty side of anxiety. The goal in creating this episode was to provide listeners with a resource that might help quell some of that stress.

This episode is a little different. Join host Amanda Siebert for an ibogaine-focused recap of the 2023 MAPS Psychedelic Science conference. This episode features audio clips from the closing ceremony featuring Norma Lotsof, and an in-person interview with David Nassim, the co-director of Blessings of the Forest.Topics of discussion: three ongoing ibogaine studies and the researchers behind them Lucy Walker’s latest film, Of Night and Light: The Story of Iboga and Ibogaine, and the (long overdue) recognition of Norma Lotsof the role of veterans in relation to psychedelic policy efforts in Kentucky to study ibogaine for opioid use disorder the implications of increased ibogaine use in North America for communities in Gabon (where iboga is harvested) the important work of the non-profit organization Blessings of the ForestWhy it’s important: Amanda’s mission in attending Psychedelic Science 2023 was to learn as much as she could about where ibogaine is at, not just from a medical or political standpoint, but from a cultural one, too. Tune in to hear her relay knowledge from experts who have been critical to the support we see for ibogaine treatment and therapy, and from advocates who are doing the challenging work of ensuring that this medicine is harvested and used in a sustainable way.Relevant Links: Psychedelic Science 2023 Dr. Nolan Williams’ Pilot Study Dr. Jose Carlos Bouso’s Pilot Study Dr. Deborah Mash’s Study Lucy Walker on Instagram Of Night and Light on Deadline.com Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS) Recent Lucid News story on Kentucky initiative by Noah Daly Blessings of the Forest ICCERS Indigenous Medicine Conservations Fund

David Bronner is the CEO – that’s Cosmic Engagement Officer – of Dr. Bronner’s, a fifth-generation soap maker, and a board member of the Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies. At the helm of the company started by his grandfather in 1948, David is a leader in the fight for GMO labeling, industrial hemp farming in the United States, high-bar organic and fair trade standards, fair minimum wage, and drug policy reform. What we discuss: How a profound psychedelic experience took David from an apolitical college graduate and set him on the path to becoming a counter cultural thought leader I ask him What it means to be passionate about “the responsible integration of psychedelic medicine into  American culture” – especially within the capitalistic framework within which we exist Dr. Bronner being the first company in the U.S. to offer ketamine-assisted therapy as part of employee health coverage How David found iboga through his friend and former Navy SEAL Marcus Capone What iboga/ibogaine can do for the veteran population  Will we see the mainstreaming of ibogaine like we have with psilocybin? What David’s favorite integration tools are Parallels between the overharvesting of certain plant medicines and industrial agricultureWhy it’s important: Given all the ongoing evil in the world, it can be easy to feel swallowed up by capitalism – to feel stuck, hopeless, and afraid for the future. My conversation with David reminded me that even within an ill-structured system, it takes just a few people in positions of leadership – people like David and David’s father and grandfather –  to spark change and inspire more holistic business practices, and ultimately, more holistic ways of living. Relevant Links: Rolling Stone Interview (May 2023) New York Times Profile (Feb 2022) Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS) Dr. Bronner’s on Instagram Time Magazine story about Marcus Capone’s experience with Ibogaine (April 2021) Blog about David Bronner’s experience with iboga Iboga and ibogaine safety panel featuring David Bronner (April 2020)

Dr. Deborah Mash is a pioneering researcher of ibogaine and one of the world’s foremost experts on the drug. She is a professor (emeritus) of neurology and molecular and cellular pharmacology at the University of Miami School of Medicine, and the founder and CEO of DemeRx, a company developing treatments for opioid use disorder. What we discuss: How Dr. Mash first became interested in ibogaine, including her connection to Howard Lotsof, an early ibogaine advocate The structure of the ibogaine molecule and what makes it unique from other psychedelics Dr. Mash’s early research: the first clinical studies of ibogaine in humans Noribogaine: what it is and what it does  Ibogaine fatalities: is everyone who takes it is at equal risk of death? How far have we come in terms of reframing our view of substance use disorder? If ibogaine was rescheduled, what could the future of treatment look like?Why it’s important: In the excitement of the psychedelic renaissance, it can feel like all of this is “new.” It’s often said that there isn't enough research to support the use of ibogaine in a clinical setting, but Dr. Mash’s work is part of a growing body of evidence that proves otherwise. Reconciling her work and the stories you’ve heard on this show with the fact that ibogaine is still a Schedule I substance in the United States – meaning it has no medical value and a high potential for abuse – is hard to do. Understanding and working to change drug policy through research is a long game. We’re lucky that an expert like Dr. Mash is staying on the field.Relevant Links: Dr. Mash’s research: Breaking the cycle of opioid use disorder with Ibogaine (2017) Noribogaine is a G-protein biased κ-opioid receptor agonist (2015 Medication Development of Ibogaine as a Pharmacotherapy for Drug Dependence (2006) Ibogaine: Complex Pharmacokinetics, Concerns for Safety, and Preliminary Efficacy Measures (2006) Identification of a primary metabolite of ibogaine that targets serotonin transporters and elevates serotonin (1995) Dr. Mash’s company, DemeRx 1996 Interview with Dr. Deborah Mash (archived) Dr. Mash’s Twitter

Caroline Lee is a death doula, therapist, and photographer based in Oakland, California, where she is currently training to become a somatic psychologist and psychedelic therapist. She had the opportunity to receive ibogaine treatment about eight months ago. What we discuss: What is a death doula? What does it mean to be in relationship with death, and why is this an important relationship to consider? How Caroline envisions psychedelics fitting into our rituals around death, if laws were changed and psychedelics were available at end-of-life for people suffering from palliative anxiety The potential applications of ibogaine for palliative anxiety and more, from a therapist’s perspective Should therapists be required to take psychedelics if they want to offer psychedelic-assisted therapy? How ibogaine helped Caroline process the grief she experienced after a divorce that marked the end of a 16-year relationship  What death and the end of relationships have in common What Caroline’s work as a doula and a therapist have taught her about the role of griefWhy it’s important: You’ve heard it said before but I feel like it needs to be said more often: death is a part of life – and this conversation really showed me that talking about it openly isn’t morbid or negative or inherently bad in any way - it’s a way for us to stay more connected to the present moment. Feeling into the grief that we feel when someone dies, or when a relationship ends, expands our capacity for emotion – and using psychedelics including ibogaine can allow us to not only come to terms with those emotions, but arrive at a feeling of peace around our own mortality. Relevant Links: Caroline’s Instagram Caroline’s TikTok Caroline’s Website Study: Psilocybin for end-of-life anxiety