There’s an epidemic of a chemical overdose in our country today where more and more people are sick and dying faster. In fact, a 2021 report from the Centers for Disease Control suggests that over 100,000 people died of chemical overdoses in one year. This is not just an entrepreneurial, academic exercise. It’s now a moral obligation.

Is there a way to do better than the conventional recovery industry? What does it take? Could we use innovation to build a platform that includes technology, residential, medical, psychotherapeutic engagement, and long-term aftercare? 

On today’s episode, Duane speaks with Tom Feegel, CEO of Beond Treatment. Not only does he have his own story of addiction and recovery to tell, but he also talks about how his entrepreneurial spirit has led him to create a place for individuals who are struggling with addiction and emotional trauma. 

Discover how a medicinal plant derivative called Ibogaine can help treat addiction and trauma so people who are suffering can finally unlock the chains and start a new life beyond addiction and trauma. 

In this episode, you will hear

• Tom’s story of addiction and recovery
• How his entrepreneurial spirit influenced his own recovery
• The importance of learning to listen
• De-risking a venture
• What is Ibogaine and how does it work?

Key Quotes

[05:35] – “There’s actually one psychedelic that is conventionally used to overcome first opioid addiction and it was oftentimes used in other types of addiction – it’s called Ibogaine.”
[07:41] – “About two and a half million people will go to rehab in the United States this year. And the statistical probability of success is debated somewhere around single-digit percentage for many.”
[11:31] – “In de-risking a venture, oftentimes, the biggest failure is giving people what they say they want or need, rather than what they truly want or need.”
[14:20] – “In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control says for the first time in U.S. history, over 100,000 people will have died this year of chemical overdose, and that it was rising. It’s not just an entrepreneurial, academic exercise. This is a moral obligation.”
[25:18] – “The Iboga plant is used ceremonially and has been used since time immemorial in Gabon, specifically for initiation in the transitions of life.”
[28:31] – “After they take Ibogaine, the first step is they don’t feel a craving. The second step is they want to change. Now they want to heal and have a sense of purpose and renewal. That’s when we surround them with the conventional tools of recovery in psychotherapy.”
[29:01] – “Iboga is the natural derivative of this plant. It’s actually the bark of the root. Ibogaine is refined hydrochloride that’s purified and testable for its purity.”
[43:36] – “Many people have come before you and recovered. I’m one of them. You deserve it. You deserve to heal because you can put all that pain to work. And you can help someone who will come after you. Never give up.”