Getting Personal with Plant Medicine

Join host Diana in an engaging conversation with Charis Burrett from The Medicine Woman, as they explore the evolution of a nonprofit cannabis dispensary into a vibrant community hub. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities in the cannabis industry, including celebrity partnerships and the differences between cannabis markets in California and New Jersey. Charis shares her journey from the apparel industry to teaming up with Ice-T in creating a new flagship dispensary in Jersey City. Learn about the importance of education and community support in making plant medicine more accessible. This episode uncovers the complexities and personal stories behind...

Welcome to another exciting episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, hosted by Diana and JR. Today, we delve into the fascinating world of cordyceps, commonly known as the zombie fungus. Explore its rich history in traditional Chinese medicine, from promoting vitality and energy to enhancing lung health and aiding in altitude adaptation.

Discover the incredible intelligence embedded in these fungi and learn about how their unique lifecycle could revolutionize perspectives on nature’s brilliance. With potential benefits in brain health, cholesterol regulation, and cell longevity, cordyceps are more than just a supplement; they are a powerful al...

Welcome to an enlightening episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, where host Diana sits down with Tashiana the Sun Goddess to delve into the multifaceted world of hibiscus. Explore the symbolic and healing properties of this vibrant flower, from its ancient connections to Egyptian culture to its modern applications in teas and spiritual practices.

Tashiana shares her personal journey with hibiscus, uncovering its role in harmonizing the spirit and body. As a powerful herbal ally for balancing emotions, improving digestion, and promoting cardiovascular health, hibiscus takes center stage in this episode.

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Welcome to the fascinating world of plant medicine with your hosts, Diana and JR. In this seedling episode of 'Getting Personal with Plant Medicine', we dive into the wonders of the Turkey Tail mushroom. You'll discover how these intriguing fungi, often found on trees during your nature walks, can enhance your gut health, boost your immune system, and improve respiratory wellness.

Join us as we share personal anecdotes about managing asthma and Crohn's disease with the anti-inflammatory prowess of Turkey Tail. Learn about the holistic approach to stress relief and how this remarkable mushroom can contribute to...

Join Diana and Frankie Greenthumbs as they delve into the world of indoor plant cultivation. In this episode, they discuss the joys and challenges of nurturing your leafy companions, sharing tips and secrets for successful plant care. Whether it's understanding the balance of light and water or choosing the right soil, Diana and Frankie guide you through the essentials of growing vibrant and healthy plants at home.

Through an engaging conversation, they explore the nuances of feeding your plants, the importance of soil health, and the role of light in plant growth. Perfect for beginners and seasoned...

In this special seedling episode (shorter explorations of certain plants) of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, join hosts Diana and JR as they dive into the world of kombucha. Explore the fascinating journey of brewing kombucha at home, with insights into the importance of black tea selection and the quirky nature of SCOBY hotels. Discover the health benefits of kombucha, from gut health to mental clarity, as Diana shares her personal experiences with this fermented beverage. 

Welcome to another episode of "Getting Personal with Plant Medicine." In this episode, host Diana sits down with Emilia Rizzuto, founder of All Things Elderberry, to delve into the healing wonders of the elderberry plant.

Emilia shares her personal journey of battling with Crohn's disease and how elderberry became a pivotal part of her treatment, leading her to create a line of natural products. Discover the various applications of elderberry beyond just syrup, as Emelia explains how the entire plant can be harnessed for its medicinal benefits.

Welcome to another seedling episode hosted by Diana and co-host JR. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of Reishi, also known as Ganoderma, a powerhouse in plant medicine often deemed the "mushroom of immortality." Discover how these incredible fungi can boost immunity, improve energy, and provide a calming effect without dissociation, offering a balanced and holistic alternative to Western medicine.

Join us as we share personal experiences with Reishi tea, highlighting its immediate impact on health and well-being, from reducing the duration of colds to enhancing relaxation and appreciation. Learn about the historical significance...

Dive into the mesmerizing world of plant medicine as Diana hosts Christian Rasmussen from Minnesota Nice Ethnobotanicals. This episode explores the captivating properties and personal stories surrounding Blue Lotus—an ancient and revered plant. Discover its spiritual applications, the journey of personal healing it offers, and its potential as an aphrodisiac. Blue Lotus can also enhance meditation, spiritual practices, and daily connections, offering a heart-opening, profound experience.

In this episode with Frankie Greenthumbs, listeners are taken on a journey through the intricate world of cannabis cloning. The discussion highlights the challenges and breakthroughs in the cultivation process, offering insights into the innovative techniques used to enhance plant growth. With a focus on both the scientific and personal experiences of those involved, the episode sheds light on the evolving landscape of cannabis cultivation, making it accessible and engaging for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

For our first "seedling" episode, we do a quick exploration of the Stamets Stack, and why it works well for some. 

Chapters:

(00:00) Getting Personal With Plant Medicine

This chapter introduces our new "seedling episodes" format, where we explore plant medicine concepts in short, focused segments. Today, we examine the concept of "stacking" in plant medicine, specifically with psilocybin microdosing. We clarify the differences between two popular microdosing protocols: the Stamets Stack and the PhenomenSys Protocol. The PhenomenSys involves dosing every three days to manage tolerance levels, while the Stamets method consists of four d...

In this enlightening episode, host Diana engages in a heartfelt conversation with Christopher Deaney of Christopher's Organic Botanicals. The discussion explores the transformative power of kratom as a natural remedy for chronic pain and an alternative to opioids. Christopher shares his personal journey, which began in 2015, when he discovered kratom's calming properties and natural benefits over pharmaceuticals.

Together, Diana and Christopher delve into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the kratom market, emphasizing the pressing need for regulation and transparency to ensure consumer safety. They also discuss the potential of kratom to aid individuals overcoming significant life challenges...

In this episode, host Diana explores alcohol-free social spaces with Nick Patrick, founder of Root City Kava Lounge, Maryland's first kava bar. Nick became an advocate for plant-based nightlife after discovering kava. The episode highlights the sober curiosity movement among millennials seeking connections without alcohol's effects.

Nick recounts how his experience with kava and kratom inspired the Velvet Curtain, a speakeasy that grew into Root City Kava Lounge. The discussion addresses the benefits and misconceptions of kava and kratom, stressing responsible use and consumer education.

Nick emphasizes community building through non-alcoholic drinks and the authentic...

In this episode, host Diana is joined by Frankie GreenThumbs. Frankie, a seasoned grower and owner of a unique cannabis grow shop, shares his passion for creating an inclusive and supportive community for home growers, especially those in Maryland. The episode reveals how to transform a growing space into a thriving haven for cannabis, avoiding the common pitfalls of misleading grow shop advice. Frankie offers valuable insights on overcoming challenges like landlord restrictions and soil complexities and emphasizes the benefits of starting with clones. The audience also explores the exciting process of phenohunting for optimal genetics, ensuring a bountiful...

In this episode, host Diana Krach and guest Christian Rasmussen of MN Ethnobotanicals delve into the remarkable potential of Amanita muscaria, a mushroom with a storied past and mystical properties. The episode offers an insightful exploration of how this misunderstood fungus can serve as a powerful ally in personal growth and healing, particularly during Christian's benzodiazepine withdrawal. Through engaging discussions, they dispel myths surrounding Amanita muscaria's toxicity and emphasize its unique qualities that set it apart from other plant medicines like psilocybin and ayahuasca.

Listeners are invited to discover the introspective journey facilitated by Amanita muscaria, which...

In this episode, hosts Diana and JR take listeners on a candid and humorous journey through their experiences with plant medicine. As they wrap up Season 3, the duo reflects on their often chaotic but enlightening adventures with kombucha, kava, cannabis, and psilocybin mushrooms.

They share laugh-out-loud tales of kitchen explosions, moldy surprises, and unforgettable kava bar incidents, emphasizing the importance of learning from necessary failures.

Listeners are treated to personal anecdotes about managing chronic illnesses like Crohn's disease with kombucha, navigating the challenges of cannabis tolerance, and understanding the significance of terpenes. The episode also...

Before the holiday rush, take a minute to check in with yourself and accentuate your day with some plants and meditation! Diana and JR talk about the importance of taking a holistic approach to your plant medicine practice. They talk about binaural beats, frequencies, and meditation, and how these intersect with plant medicine.

There is also a bonus sound bath sample at the end from Bridgette Jester of Crown Creator Studios, which listeners can use to start or continue their meditative practice. 

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 Use Code YOUR HIGHNESS FOR 20% off your first order at...

In this episode, host Diana sits down with Alicia Heber, the visionary founder of SeedNest and creator of the She Grows at Home community on TikTok. This episode delves into Alicia's inspiring journey of establishing a women-owned cannabis seed bank and her mission to make home-growing accessible and rewarding, particularly for women. Alicia shares her insights on overcoming common hurdles faced by aspiring growers, such as the intimidation surrounding genetics and the misconception that home cultivation is overly complex.

Listeners are introduced to the concept of feminized seeds and their pivotal role in maximizing plant count while...

In the latest addition to the Talking to Kids series, host Diana Krach invites holistic nurse and plant medicine specialist Marissa Fratoni to delve into the challenging yet crucial topic of discussing cannabis with young people. The episode explores various aspects of cannabis use, focusing on the delicate balance between its medical and recreational purposes. Marissa provides valuable insights into how parents and guardians can communicate the realities of THC and cannabinoids as legitimate medicines, even for children, while addressing privacy and industry-specific challenges.

The conversation highlights the ease of access teenagers have to cannabis and related...

Join host Diana as she takes you on a unique journey exploring the intersection of plant medicine and pet care in this special bonus episode. Get ready for the upcoming in-person event on November 18th at Harford Haven Studio in Maryland, where you'll delve into the world of pets and plant medicine.

This episode revisits enlightening discussions with two experts who have previously graced the show. First, hear from Julianna Carella, founder and CEO of Treatibles, as she shares insights on how CBD can transform your pet's health, especially for rescue animals dealing with anxiety and other...

In this episode, host Diana welcomes Eric Mercado from Terpli to delve into the fascinating world of terpenes and their significant role in cannabis. Discover how these unsaturated hydrocarbons, akin to essential oils, are pivotal in tailoring cannabis treatments for various medical conditions, including anxiety and pain relief.

Eric shares his personal journey and insights into the endocannabinoid system, explaining how individual biochemistry can influence the effects of different terpene profiles. Learn about the complexities of the cannabis market, from the challenges of naming conventions to the importance of Certificates of Analysis (COA) in understanding product composition.<...

In this episode, host Diana invites certified herbalist Dale Bellisfield from Canncestra to delve into the fascinating world of chocolate and roses as plant medicines. Discover the historical and modern medicinal uses of chocolate, from its origins as a spiritual beverage in ancient cultures to its current recognition for enhancing mood, memory, and endurance.

Explore how chocolate, rich in antioxidants and nutrients, can be a vital part of a wellness plan despite its reputation as a luxury indulgence. Dale also shares insights into the healing properties of roses, known for their comforting and heart-healing qualities, and how...

Welcome to Getting Personal with Plant Medicine. In this episode, host Diana Krash is joined by Mackenzie McCotter for an in-depth discussion on the personal and generational impacts of plant medicine.

Mackenzie shares her journey with cannabis, starting from high school experimentation to finding it beneficial for her ADHD. The conversation also delves into her unique family dynamics, where openness about cannabis use was a norm, and how it helped her through a medical crisis and supported her grandfather's quality of life.

They explore the challenges and benefits of using plant medicine during the pandemic...

In this episode, host Diana Krach dives deep into the fascinating world of lion's mane mushrooms with the knowledgeable Amy Donohue. Amy shares her extensive expertise on the subject, explaining how lion's mane has transitioned from a staple in traditional medicine to a modern-day wellness powerhouse.

Listeners are treated to personal anecdotes about incorporating lion's mane into daily routines, such as adding its powder to morning coffee for enhanced alertness and sustained energy. The episode emphasizes the importance of proper preparation, including exposing the mushrooms to sunlight to activate beneficial compounds like beta glucans and vitamin D.<...

This is a bonus episode - an audio version of an essay found on the Your Highness Media Substack. This article is about using kratom for pain management and all of the challenges that come with being a consumer. 

In this episode, host Diana Krach teams up with JR, her co-host from Your Highness Podcast, to delve into the delightful debate of whether to pronounce it "herb" or "erb." The duo kicks off with some housekeeping updates, highlighting the buzz around a glowing review by Frank Racioppi on his Substack, Earworthy. They also share why their own Substack is a treasure trove for plant medicine enthusiasts, offering not just podcast episodes but also insightful articles, guest posts, and detailed herb profiles.

As they navigate through listener feedback, Diana and JR express gratitude for the community's input...

This is a bonus episode - an audio reading of an article host Diana wrote for a publication called Sweet Jane a couple of years ago.

Article: How to Introduce Cannabis in the Bedroom - Sweet Jane (sweetjanemag.com)

In this episode, Diana Krach and her husband JR embark on a deep dive into the world of kava, a traditional plant medicine from the South Pacific Islands. The couple shares their personal journey with kava, which began at a kava bar in Florida, and discuss its unique properties, such as its ability to induce relaxation without impairing cognitive function and its non-addictive nature due to reverse tolerance. They also highlight the growing popularity of kava in the United States, marked by the exciting opening of a new kava bar in Baltimore.

Listeners will gain insights into...

This is an audio reading of an article host Diana wrote for Miss Grass in 2019. 

Article: Why Thousands of Women Are Swapping This Controversial Drug for Cannab – Miss Grass

In this episode, host Diana Krach engages in a dynamic conversation with Dr. Gabby Pavelko of Rootless. The episode explores Dr. Pavelko's transition from the cannabis and CBD industry to pioneering the seaweed bites market, emphasizing seaweed's nutritional and ecological benefits. Dr. Pavelko discusses her initial involvement in cannabis, her pursuit of a doctorate to assist patients with hormonal issues, and her personal experiences with hormonal birth control.

The discussion delves into seaweed's rising popularity as a nutritious and sustainable food source, differences between wild-harvested and cultivated seaweed, and the importance of clean water sourcing and heavy...

In this episode, host Diana Krach is joined by Dr. Rob Silver, DVM, MS, the Chief Veterinary Officer of Real Mushrooms. Dr. Silver shares his fascinating journey from traditional veterinary practice to becoming a leading advocate for herbal and nutraceutical medicines in pet care. Dr. Silver also recounts how his initial frustration with conventional treatments led him to exploring the health benefits of mushrooms such as lion's mane and oyster mushrooms for dogs.

In this episode, host Diana Krach talks to Diana Stafford, the founder of Mota Magick. They discuss how cultural heritage influences wellness and healing practices. Diana Stafford shares her journey of reconnecting with her Guatemalan roots and the wisdom of her Mayan ancestors. Through a transformative trip to the Yucatan Peninsula, she discovers the profound role of spirituality and traditional rituals in addressing both physical and emotional health. 

This reconnection with her heritage shaped her understanding and practice of plant medicine, highlighting the role of cultural heritage in healing and self-discovery. The conversation moves to the growing tr...

In this episode, Diana is joined by Seraphina Capranos, a certified herbalist and homeopath, to discuss holistic strategies for managing perimenopausal symptoms through herbal medicine. They discuss the benefits of herbs such as motherwort, wild yam, and vitex (chaste tree berry) for supporting liver function and soothing the nervous system, particularly in individuals experiencing stress and hormonal imbalances.

 Seraphina explains the antispasmodic and liver-supporting properties of wild yam and addresses common misconceptions about its hormonal effects. The episode also explores mood swings related to hormonal changes, recommending herbs like lemon balm for anxiety and cinnamon and hawthorn for...

In this second part of a two-part episode, Diana Krach is joined by Holly Hillyer, the creative force behind Utokia Herbs. The episode delves into Holly's unique approach to combining playfulness with the serious business of plant medicine. She discusses the challenges of cannabis cultivation and marketing and describes her innovative concept of creating trading cards for each cannabis strain, inspired by games like Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering. 

(00:57 - 01:33) Plant Grower's Commitment to Work

(10:44 - 12:17) Excitement Over Catnip Toys

(17:06 - 18:29) Oregon Farm THC and CBD Products

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This is part one of a two-part episode. Holly Hillyer of Utokia Herb Co shares her transformative journey from relying on prescription pills to embracing plant-based healing through cannabis. Following a severe horse-riding accident that left her with nerve damage and an addiction to painkillers, Holly discovered the therapeutic benefits of cannabis edibles, which played a crucial role in her recovery. The episode delves into the evolution of her family's clandestine cannabis operation to a legal business in Oregon, detailing the challenges they faced amid changing state regulations and the shift from medical to recreational focus in the industry.<...

In this episode, Diana is joined by Mallory O'Connor of Normal Moms Club, who discusses strategies for engaging in honest conversations with children about drugs. She shares insights on how to provide age-appropriate education and emphasizes the need for knowledge over fear or misinformation. Diana and Mallory also talk about the shift from programs like DARE, the importance of transparency regarding cannabis use, and personal experiences with educating kids about Narcan and opiates. They also touch upon the historical context of "Reefer Madness" and its relevance today. The episode concludes with a mention of the Normal Moms Club, a...

Seraphina Capranos, a registered homeopath and herbalist, joins Diana to talk about the world of plant medicine and the interplay with mythology. Seraphina shares her personal journey and the deep roots of herbal healing in human tradition. She also discusses the benefits of specific herbs like black cohosh and motherwort, providing insights into their healing properties. The episode further introduces Serafina's program "From the Wild Edge," co-created with Dr. Carly DeNoon, which combines ancient myths with modern science for women's holistic healing. 

Additionally, the "Alchemy of Herbal Medicine" is highlighted as a self-paced program for aspiring herbalists. S...

In the latest episode in our series: Talking to Kids, Diana sits down with Sysamone from Savanh Wellness and her daughter Riley to discuss the complexities of talking to children about CBD. As CBD becomes more mainstream, there is an increased need for clear and informed conversations with children. 

Sysamone brings her unique perspective as both a parent and a professional in the CBD industry to offer insights into how to differentiate between CBD and THC, as well as hemp-derived and marijuana-derived products. And Riley brings a younger perspective about how CBD is discussed with kids. Throughout t...

In our latest minisode, we're shining a spotlight on the multifaceted herb vervain. Known for its popularity in witchcraft and metaphysics, vervain's friendly nature sets it apart from its more volatile botanical counterparts. Discover the myriad of ways this powerful plant is used in magical rituals, from creating love potions to turning bad luck into the best luck, and even transforming foes into friends.  Whether it's soothing digestive troubles, easing nervous tension, or mitigating symptoms of chronic illnesses, this versatile herb has a remedy for many health concerns. 

Use code Plantpod for 10% off your next purchase of Mi...

In this revealing episode, Peter Perkins, CEO of Golden Grove, shares his personal battle with substance abuse disorder and his path to recovery. Perkins discusses his previous addictions to substances like cocaine, alcohol, and opiates, and how pharmaceutical aids such as Suboxone and naltrexone, along with the support of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), played a role in his journey towards sobriety.

Perkins’ narrative takes an interesting turn with his introduction to kratom, spurred by a friend’s success in using the herb to manage chronic pain and opioid dependency. This leads to a broader conversation on kratom’s place...