About this episodeJason Ellis and Emily Butler discuss their respective struggles with substance abuse, focusing on the hidden d…AI summary
Jason Ellis and Emily Butler discuss their respective struggles with substance abuse, focusing on the hidden dangers of kratom and the intense withdrawal processes they endured. They highlight the lack of medical knowledge regarding kratom, the severe physical and psychological effects of addiction, and the importance of professional support and specific supplement regimens for recovery.
Key takeaways 7
Kratom addiction can escalate rapidly, with users consuming 5-6 doses daily leading to severe withdrawal symptoms including muscle locking, seizures, and suicidal ideation.
Medical professionals often lack knowledge about kratom; Jason's cardiologist did not recognize the substance, and Emily's doctors dismissed her symptoms or blamed postpartum changes.
7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) is a concentrated form of kratom that is significantly more addictive and dangerous than standard kratom powder or capsules, leading to faster dependency.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) involves prolonged depression and brain chemistry rebalancing issues that can last for weeks or months after cessation.
Jason Ellis experienced severe withdrawal symptoms including hand locking, rocking back and forth for two weeks, and hitting his head on concrete to loosen his muscles during detox.
Emily Butler developed Quick K, a supplement regimen designed to address nutrient deficiencies (Vitamin C, D, B vitamins, iron) and support neurotransmitter production (serotonin, dopamine) during recovery.
Antihistamines like Benadryl and melatonin can worsen restless leg syndrome symptoms during withdrawal; effective alternatives include L-theanine and magnesium glycinate.
Notable quotes 5AI-generated: wording and quote attribution may be wrong. Use the play link to verify.
“I would almost suck a dick for some kratom because I knew it wasn't even the high I was going to get. It was the comfortably nauseous.”
▶ 01:06:33Jason Ellis describing the depth of his kratom addiction and how it shifted from seeking a high to avoiding withdrawal sickness.
“It's not about money and fame... I've said this story before. At one point, I did Alice Mania at the Hard Rock, sold it out, 3,000 people... and I was not happy.”
▶ 24:21Jason Ellis reflecting on how achieving his career goals did not bring him happiness compared to his current sober state.
“If you're an adult... I'm talking about an 18-year-old that doesn't know he ain't got no back problem. He's just like he can hear he heard he can get a little high at the gas station and now he's ruined.”
▶ 01:05:08Emily Butler discussing the danger of kratom accessibility to minors who lack the context or physical pain that might justify adult use.
“You white knuckle it. It's going to be like three days real bad. Get out. Get away from everybody. Lock yourself up.”
Andrew Huberman's advice to Jason Ellis for quitting kratom, which Jason found terrifying and ultimately harmful due to the severity of his withdrawal.
“The nighttime formula... people struggling with restless legs should never take an antihistamine... It actually makes restless legs worse.”
▶ 01:16:54Emily Butler explaining why common sleep aids are counterproductive for kratom withdrawal symptoms.
Chapters & Sections (200)▼
00:00Host Introduces Guest Emily Butlerchapter2
00:00Podcast Introduction and Guest Discussion
01:18Defending Against Potential Lawsuits
01:39Sharing Past Experiences with Substance Abusechapter3
01:39Discussion about a letter and sponsorship
02:14Addiction and Substance Abuse Experiences
03:33Marijuana Use and Weightlifting Experience
04:29Overcoming Heart Condition and Drinking Habitschapter5
04:29Disagreement with Serious Person on Creativity
05:27Kawasaki Disease and Heart Enlargement
05:55Heart Palpitations and Stroke Warning Signs
06:19Struggling with Sobriety as an Addict
06:45Overcoming Addiction with Alternative Substances
07:13Medical Professionals Lack Knowledge on Kratomchapter2
07:13Lack of Medical Knowledge on Kratom
08:01Stem Cell Skepticism and Personal Experience
08:48Struggles with Cratom Addictionchapter2
08:48Addiction to Energy Drinks and Cratom
09:49Struggling with Addiction and Spending Habits
10:29Excessive Beer Consumption and Health Riskschapter2
10:29Experiencing Bad Beer Quality
11:17Embarrassing Herbal Supplement Experience in Colombia
12:03Overcoming Denial and Cratom Addictionchapter2
12:03Struggling with Cratom Addiction Denial
13:01Side Effects of Natural Pain Reliever
13:27Woman's Experience with Cratom and Pregnancychapter3
13:27Experiences with Cratom and Restless Legs
13:54Woman Discusses Hormonal Changes After Pregnancy
14:21Discussion on Cratom Use During Pregnancy
14:49Mother's Experience with Kratom During Pregnancychapter2