<![CDATA[Your Highness Media : Getting Personal with Plant Medicine]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/s/getting-personal-with-plant-medicinehttps://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!OiaP!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1abb5f5c-12b7-4739-8771-15b3c3e6e3d2_1280x1280.pngYour Highness Media : Getting Personal with Plant Medicinehttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/s/getting-personal-with-plant-medicineSubstackSat, 04 Apr 2026 03:01:10 GMT<![CDATA[Valerian Root: From Nervous Stomach to Dreamwork]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/valerian-root-from-nervous-stomachhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/valerian-root-from-nervous-stomachWed, 01 Apr 2026 22:31:07 GMTDiana is joined by Tashiana Reaves, clinical herbalist, to discuss the many applications of valerian root. They also talk about the personal side of the plant, as Tashiana goes into her story and how it helped her. The discussion is followed by a Christopher's Corner, where he also highlights the valerian products offered by Christopher's Organic Botanicals.

]]><![CDATA[Melody Woolf's Fight for Kratom and Mobility]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/melody-woolfs-fight-for-kratom-andhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/melody-woolfs-fight-for-kratom-andMon, 16 Mar 2026 22:08:25 GMTMelody Woolf joins Diana to talk about her remarkable journey with kratom. Because of the transformation that gave her a real quality of life, Melody became a tireless activist, regularly contributing to legislative reform. In this episode, Melody unpacks the complexities of activism and highlights the need for more advocates.

Important links:

Christopher’s Organic Botanicals

]]><![CDATA[The Personal Side of Psilocybin]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/the-personal-side-of-psilocybinhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/the-personal-side-of-psilocybinWed, 11 Feb 2026 13:16:08 GMTDiana is joined by Mallory O’Connor to discuss how micro-dosing intentionally can lead to a lot of positive lifestyle changes. Mallory explains the importance of set and setting when using psychedelics, and how to safely approach sourcing psilocybin online. She also unpacks what it means to be a psychedelic facilitator and talks about what lead her to the position.

Important links:

Christopher’s Organic Botanicals

]]><![CDATA[Kratom and Addiction Recovery: Jordan Richard on Advocacy, Science, and the Truth]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-and-addiction-recovery-jordanhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-and-addiction-recovery-jordanThu, 22 Jan 2026 13:46:34 GMTIn this episode, Diana talks to Jordan Richard of New Hope Botanicals—a leading kratom advocate, educator, and content creator known for speaking truth in a highly censored space.

Jordan shares his deeply personal journey from severe opioid addiction to long-term recovery, and how discovering kratom over 13 years ago became a turning point that helped him reclaim his life. Together, they explore the critical distinction between addiction vs. physical dependence, the role kratom can play in harm reduction, and why nuanced conversations around plant medicine matter now more than ever.

And then, in Christopher’s Corner, Christopher Deaney talks about product highlights and explains the extraction process of purified kratom capsules. He also talks about the importance of community involvement in kratom advocacy and offers resources like Christopher’s Kratom Education Skool Community.

]]><![CDATA[Kratom for Animals]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-for-animalshttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-for-animalsTue, 13 Jan 2026 13:24:21 GMTWhile not widely discussed, kratom has the potential to benefit dogs and other mammals. With the guidance of a veterinarian, plant medicine can be a powerful tool in the wellness toolbelt. Christopher Deaney joins Diana to talk about his own personal experiences giving his dogs and rabbits kratom and unpacks how beneficial it was.

Important links:

Christopher’s Organic Botanicals

Christopher’s Kratom Education

Botanical Advocacy and Education

]]><![CDATA[We Made the List!]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/we-made-the-listhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/we-made-the-listMon, 05 Jan 2026 16:42:46 GMTHello Higher-Minded Humans!

We didn’t create any of our usual end-of-year lists, because 2025 as a different kind of year. Also, our best-of podcast list wouldn’t stray too far from last year’s list, and we try not to repeat ourselves. But we made it onto another list, and we are so grateful!

Getting Personal With Plant Medicine, by creator/host Diana-Ashley Krach, discusses the science of using plants medicinally in our daily health regimen and helps listeners discover the remarkable healing power of earth and plant medicine.

A big thank you to Ear Worthy for including us!!

]]><![CDATA[Understanding the Hemp Ban]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/understanding-the-hemp-banhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/understanding-the-hemp-banFri, 26 Dec 2025 15:04:17 GMTHolly Hillyer of Utokia Herb Co. joins Diana to talk about the recent ban that was snuck into the spending bill. The impending legislation will impact over 90% of the CBD industry negatively and remove access to medicine for a lot of people. Holly unpacks all of the misconceptions and myths that flood conversations about the future of CBD.

And in our Christopher’s Corner, Christopher talks about impending kratom bans as well as ones already in existence, and how those bills impact consumers. He also outlines a few easy ways to get involved in the fight against bans and offers community outlets to discuss any collective efforts.

*A special thank you, as we end the year, to all of our listeners, and to Christopher’s Organic Botanicals, the brand making it all possible.

]]><![CDATA[From Pain Management to Tireless Activism]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/from-pain-management-to-tirelesshttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/from-pain-management-to-tirelessWed, 10 Dec 2025 01:23:32 GMTDiana is joined by Madalyn Sklar of Kratom Stories Podcast and The Kratom Gals to talk about how kratom transformed her life. The plant that gave her autonomy over her pain management also inspired relentless advocacy and community outreach. In addition to constantly fighting for people to have access, she regularly educates newcomers about safe use and product accessibility.

In the latest Christopher’s Corner, Christopher Deaney of Christopher’s Organic Botanicals points out how important platforms like podcasts are to the accessibility to plant medicine. He also highlights some of his current product favorites and shares special discount codes.

]]><![CDATA[Ashwagandha and Blue Lotus]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/ashwagandha-and-blue-lotushttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/ashwagandha-and-blue-lotusMon, 24 Nov 2025 23:32:17 GMTDiana is joined once again by Tashiana Reaves to talk about two plants that pair really well with each other: ashwagandha and blue lotus. They also work well with kratom, accentuating the benefits. Tashiana talks about different applications, consumption methods, and spiritual integrations of the two plants.

Following the main segment is a new Christopher’s Corner, where Christopher Deaney talks about important legislation and ways to get involved that require very little effort (but have real impact). He also points out some product highlights and specials, offering listeners a special discount code.

]]><![CDATA[JR and Kava]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/jr-and-kavahttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/jr-and-kavaTue, 18 Nov 2025 15:13:09 GMTJR recently had the honor of guesting on Irreverent Health, which is a podcast where a few guys discuss funky health stuff. In this episode, JR discusses the ins and outs of kava, as well as what goes into creating a community-focused space like Root City Kava Lounge.

In this episode, JR Krach shares his journey into the world of Kava, revealing its origins and social significance in building community. The discussion covers the unique preparation methods, effects, and the differences between Kava and alcohol, emphasizing the health benefits and relaxed social atmosphere it promotes. With insights into the operations of a kava bar and the vibrant culture surrounding it, the conversation blends humor and informative commentary on contemporary herbal alternatives.

]]><![CDATA[Kratom for PTSD]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-for-ptsdhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-for-ptsdTue, 11 Nov 2025 01:31:19 GMTIn our season 5 premiere, we (Diana and JR) talk about recent changes to GPPM. This podcast is now a branded one! We couldn’t be more excited to work with Christopher’s Organic Botanicals, because not only is it our favorite kratom company, but it’s a business that puts customers first and values transparency.

To honor Veteran’s Day, we discuss the benefits of adding kratom to the wellness toolbelt for those who deal with PTSD. This plant is so special, because it includes mood-enhancing, anxiety-relieving, and pain-reducing properties.

For our first ever Christopher’s Corner segment, we hear from Christopher Deaney about the origins of COB.

Important links:

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) Use in a Veteran With Chronic Pain | American Journal of Psychiatry Residents’ Journal

Dr. Chris McCurdy | The Past, Present, and Future of Kratom Research – Troscriptions®

The Potential for Kratom as an Antidepressant and Antipsychotic - PMC

]]><![CDATA[7‑OH vs. Whole‑Leaf Kratom: Separating Fact from Fear]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/7oh-vs-wholeleaf-kratom-separatinghttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/7oh-vs-wholeleaf-kratom-separatingWed, 24 Sep 2025 01:33:13 GMTHosts Diana and Christopher Deaney break down the differences between whole‑leaf kratom, extracts, and the synthesized 7‑OH compound, explaining why conflation of these products fuels fear and misguided bans.

The episode covers harm reduction advice, safe usage tips, the role of industry testing and labeling, and advocacy efforts like the KCPA to protect responsible kratom consumers.

]]><![CDATA[The Plant That Began It All]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/the-plant-that-began-it-all-d22https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/the-plant-that-began-it-all-d22Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:30:51 GMTSince kratom is such a hot topic on all forms of media, I thought I’d share an older episode of Your Highness Podcast where we discuss the complexities of this awesome plant.

Original show notes:

Diana and JR discuss how Kratom began their journey into plant medicine, and how it can be an effective alternative to pharmaceutical pain medications. Guest Dr. Grinspoon shares insights on Kratom's potential in treating conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. The episode also emphasizes the need for further research, regulation, and sourcing from reliable vendors.

]]><![CDATA[When Your Doctor Won't Hear You]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/when-your-doctor-wont-hear-youhttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/when-your-doctor-wont-hear-youTue, 09 Sep 2025 12:31:52 GMTIn our latest episode, we talk about the time my GI doctor disregarded the plants that were helping manage my symptoms. Having doctors who refuse to trust that you know your own body can be frustrating and dehumanizing. That’s why it’s so important to continue to share our stories about how plant medicine helps.

]]><![CDATA[When Plant Medicine Gets a Bad Rap]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/when-plant-medicine-gets-a-bad-raphttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/when-plant-medicine-gets-a-bad-rapWed, 03 Sep 2025 16:53:47 GMTHosts Diana and JR get personal about plant medicines that face stigma, sharing lived experiences and unpacking why substances like cannabis, kava, kratom, and psilocybin are controversial despite long histories of use.

They explore misinformation, cultural and ethical concerns, sustainability and sourcing, dosing and safety, and how societal attitudes and policy shape access.

]]><![CDATA[Pick Three and Let It Be]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/pick-three-and-let-it-behttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/pick-three-and-let-it-beFri, 15 Aug 2025 00:36:39 GMTDo you ever feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of herbs? Picking your “holy trinity” can seem daunting, but it gets a lot easier when you start with three. Go slow and start low, and consider all of the possible contraindications. Tashiana Reaves talks about approaching herbalism to mental health management, and goes in-depth about the consequences of approaching plant medicine without a holistic vantage point in our latest episode.

Side note, it’s our birthday month! Not just the born month of Your Highness Media (which began back in 2017), but also that of Tashiana’s and Diana’s. So, if you haven’t subscribed to Tashiana’s newsletter, or bought one of her teas or readings, or engage in any other way of support you can afford. And if you want to gift us, we would LOVE a review of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine on your favorite platform (or on our YouTube).

]]><![CDATA[Exploring the Healing Power of Plant Medicine for Mental Health]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/exploring-the-healing-power-of-planthttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/exploring-the-healing-power-of-plantFri, 01 Aug 2025 12:43:01 GMTIn this episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, host Diana sits down with Tashiana Reaves, AKA Tashiana the Sun Goddess. The pair discuss plant medicine and its potential benefits for mental health, particularly when managing anxiety and depression.

Tashiana shares her holistic approach to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges through the use of various herbs and plants. From chamomile to Tulsi, discover how these natural allies can offer soothing and supportive energies.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety or coping with depression, this episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for incorporating plant medicine into your wellness routine. Join us for this engaging conversation and learn how to start your journey toward mental well-being in a gentle and effective way.

Important links:

Tashiana's Substack and website

Cloud Culture

]]><![CDATA[Kratom for Painsomnia]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-for-painsomniahttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/kratom-for-painsomniaWed, 23 Jul 2025 21:36:46 GMTPainsomnia, for those who suffer, can cause a certain kind of desperation and despair. Without sufficient sleep, chronic pain only intensifies, so finding relief is a constant battle. In the latest episode of Getting Personal with Plant Medicine, Diana talks about how red strains of kratom, particularly Red Maeng Da, help more than any other plant or pharmaceutical for painsomnia.

]]><![CDATA[Plant Medicine Hacks for Better Sleep ]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/plant-medicine-hacks-for-better-sleephttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/plant-medicine-hacks-for-better-sleepThu, 10 Jul 2025 00:20:01 GMTIn this episode of "Getting Personal with Plant Medicine," hosts Diana and JR delve into the world of natural plant medicines that aid in sleep. They highlight the calming properties of Kava, which relaxes both mind and body, and introduce CBN, a cannabinoid known for its sedative and pain-relieving effects. The discussion expands to Kanna, a succulent from South Africa that promotes vivid dreams and alleviates anxiety.

The hosts share personal experiences and offer insights on effective usage, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how these plants can enhance sleep quality. Additionally, the episode touches on the benefits of Tulsi, the nuances of Kratom, and the role of cannabis terpenes in creating a personalized sleep aid toolkit.

Special links:

Christopher’s Organic Botanicals

Sunset Lake CBD

]]><![CDATA[From Apparel to Apothecary: The Medicine Woman]]>https://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/from-apparel-to-apothecary-the-medicinehttps://www.yourhighnessmedia.com/p/from-apparel-to-apothecary-the-medicineWed, 25 Jun 2025 00:25:11 GMTJoin 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 The Medicine Woman's mission to provide safe, quality cannabis products.

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