First Time Trying Kratom and Kava?

Feb 4th 2025

Venturing into the world of Kratom and Kava is like stepping into centuries of natural wellness. Start with small doses and focus on quality to avoid overstimulation or excessive relaxation.

For those looking to maximize their experience with Founders Fuel, try these additional therapies:

Supplements: Add L-theanine (200-400mg) for calm focus and Lion's Mane (500-1000mg) for cognitive enhancement.
Advanced Biohacking Tools: Use a Muse headband for EEG-guided meditation.
Nature-Based Interventions: Explore forest bathing or grounding to deepen relaxation.

Kratom and Kava are tools for focus and calm. Combined with these methods, they can supercharge your journey.

Origins of Kratom and Kava
Kratom’s origins are rooted in Southeast Asia, where it was a farmer’s ally for energy and pain relief. Kava, from the Pacific Islands, has long brought communities together through relaxation rituals.

To expand your experience with Founders Fuel, explore these therapies:

Advanced Techniques: Incorporate flotation therapy or Wim Hof breathing for deeper relaxation.
Sound Therapy: Use binaural beats to align your brainwaves or Tibetan bowls for meditation.
Light Therapy: Try infrared saunas to detox and relax.

Ancient tools meet modern biohacking. It’s a fusion of past and future wellness.

The Science Behind Kratom's Effectiveness
Kratom's potential to address the trifecta of founder challenges – pain, anxiety, and focus – lies in its unique pharmacology:

Pain Relief: Kratom stimulates opiate receptors through alkaloids like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These act as partial agonists of the mu-opioid receptor, signaling pain relief and even mild euphoria. This mechanism explains why kratom can be so effective for chronic pain, a common complaint among founders who spend long hours at their desks.
Anxiety Reduction: The same alkaloids that provide pain relief can also contribute to a sense of calm and well-being, potentially addressing the anxiety that plagues 37% of founders.
Enhanced Focus: Certain kratom strains, particularly white and green varieties, have been reported to enhance mental clarity and focus. This could be a game-changer for entrepreneurs struggling with ADHD-like symptoms or general difficulty concentrating.
Inflammation Reduction: Beyond its direct effects on pain and mood, kratom has been shown to decrease inflammation. This systemic anti-inflammatory effect could contribute to overall well-being and cognitive function.

Boost Productivity and Focus for Elite Entrepreneurs

Kratom as a Nootropic: The Founder's Secret Weapon

What truly excited me about kratom, and what Spencer introduced me to, were its nootropic benefits. For founders looking to add some focused relaxation to their day, high-quality kratom, when used correctly, can be a powerful tool in the entrepreneurial arsenal.

The key is in the approach. Starting with lower doses and using kratom at specific times of the day allows you to harness its nootropic and relaxation properties while minimizing the risk of overstimulation or mental exhaustion.

Based on my experience, here are some options for incorporating kratom into your routine:

Timing is Everything
I find kratom most effective when used around mid-morning (10:30-11:00 AM) or in the early afternoon (2:30-3:00 PM). These times align with natural circadian dips in energy and mental alertness.
Start Low, Go Slow
Beginning with lower doses allows you to experience more of the nootropic effects – enhanced focus, energy, and mental clarity – without overstimulation.
Quality Matters
As Spencer taught me, the source and quality of kratom can significantly impact its effects. Invest in high-quality, lab-tested kratom from reputable sources.
Synergistic Combinations
I've found that combining kratom with other natural nootropics like Lion's Mane mushroom and L-Theanine can enhance its cognitive benefits while smoothing out any potential jitters.

Entrepreneurs thrive on clarity and drive.

Kratom sharpens focus, while Kava softens stress. Together, they offer balance.

Want to go further? Pair Founders Fuel with these therapies:

Supplements: Add Bacopa monnieri (300-600mg) for cognitive clarity and Ashwagandha (300-500mg) for stress reduction.
Advanced Biohacking Tools: Use HeartMath Inner Balance for HRV coherence.
Nature-Based Interventions: Reconnect with nature through earthing mats.

Focus is your edge. Elevate it with these tools.

Importance of Lower Doses and Timing

Starting with lower doses of both Kratom and Kava is essential, especially if you’re new to these botanicals.

Lower doses tend to exhibit more of the nootropic effects like enhancing focus, energy, and mental clarity without overstimulating the system.

In contrast, higher doses can become more sedating, which, while beneficial for relaxation, could impair your ability to maintain focus and cognitive output during productive hours.

I like using Kratom and Kava at strategic times—around mid-morning (10:30-11:00 AM) or in the early afternoon (2:30-3:00 PM)—which aligns with natural circadian dips in energy and mental alertness.

These are key times when people experience cognitive fatigue or sluggishness. By taking Kratom or Kava during these windows, you can support your brain’s capacity to stay focused and alert, without feeling over-stimulated.

The Science Behind Kratom’s Ability to Help You Relax and Focus

Harnessing Kratom for a Morning Boost

Kratom provides an excellent option for a morning boost. These strains, rich in mitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain but, at lower doses, primarily activate energy and alertness pathways rather than sedation.

This leads to increased motivation and mental clarity, while the natural alkaloids in Kratom do not typically induce the jitteriness often associated with caffeine, making it ideal for sustained focus.

Neuroprotective and Mood-Enhancing Benefits

Kratom works by modulating serotonin and dopamine receptors, responsible for mood regulation and relaxation. By promoting a state of calm focus, it helps prevent cognitive fatigue that can arise from prolonged periods of concentration.

Additionally, mitragynine, Kratom’s major alkaloid, has neuroprotective effects:

Modulates the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway to upregulate antioxidant enzymes like SOD, CAT, and GST
Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may further support neuroprotection

Study on Kratom’s Neuroprotective Effects

Kava’s Role in Enhancing Relaxation and Focus

Kava operates through different mechanisms, primarily by interacting with GABA receptors—the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter.

Lower doses promote relaxation while maintaining mental clarity
Higher doses lead to sedation, making it ideal for unwinding after intense work sessions
When paired with Kratom, Kava tempers overstimulation and prevents mental burnout

For founders facing long hours of deep work, Kava provides a natural way to stay relaxed without losing sharpness.

Synergy with Founders Fuel: Lion’s Mane and L-Theanine

To further enhance the cognitive and relaxing benefits of Kratom and Kava, adding nootropic supplements like Lion’s Mane and L-Theanine creates a powerful synergy.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom:

Supports neurogenesis (growth of new neurons)
Enhances memory, focus, and mental clarity
Improves long-term brain plasticity

L-Theanine:

Promotes alpha brain waves, associated with meditation and deep focus
Counteracts overstimulation from Kratom, ensuring sustained cognitive performance

By combining these nootropics with Kratom and Kava, Founders Fuel helps entrepreneurs maintain mental energy, avoid burnout, and stay in peak flow state throughout the day.

Strategic Use for Maximum Benefits

Key Recommendations for Incorporating Kratom and Kava into Your Routine:

Start Low, Go Slow – Lower doses enhance focus without overstimulation
Timing Matters – Use Kratom in mid-morning (10:30-11:00 AM) or early afternoon (2:30-3:00 PM) to align with natural energy dips
Evening Wind Down – Opt for red vein Kratom or Kava in the evening for deep relaxation

By following these best practices, you can optimize your focus, energy, and relaxation without the risk of overstimulation or cognitive fatigue.

The Hidden Toll of Entrepreneurship: A Personal Journey to Natural Solutions

The Stark Reality of Founder Mental Health

As a startup founder or CEO, you're no stranger to the immense pressure that comes with building a business. While exhilarating, the entrepreneurial journey takes a heavy toll on mental and physical health.

A recent report by Startup Snapshot titled The Untold Toll: The Impact of Stress on Founders and CEOs reveals sobering statistics:

72% of startup founders say their mental health has been affected by entrepreneurship
37% suffer from anxiety
56% of small business owners have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or stress-related issues

These aren’t just numbers. They represent real struggles entrepreneurs face daily.

For founders battling mental fatigue, anxiety, or lack of focus, Kratom, Kava, and nootropics like Lion’s Mane and L-Theanine provide a natural way to regain clarity, stay sharp, and protect long-term cognitive health.

The Kratom Solution

About a decade ago, my entrepreneurial journey took an unexpected turn when I was introduced to kratom by an herbalist named Spencer Ames, LAc, FMP. Spencer wasn't just any herbalist; he was a world traveler who had meticulously tested various kratom sources globally. His expertise opened my eyes to the importance of quality when it comes to this ancient botanical.

At the time, Spencer was working with me, treating many of our regenerative medicine clients. These were individuals seeking to reverse their pain through cutting-edge treatments like stem cells, acupuncture, and peptides. However, we discovered that kratom offered a centuries-old solution that could provide relief while their bodies were healing.

The Bigger Picture: A Holistic Approach to Founder Wellness

While kratom has been a game-changer in my entrepreneurial journey, it's important to view it as part of a larger strategy, such as:

Prioritize Sleep – Quality sleep is crucial for cognitive function and stress management. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Daily Exercise – Physical activity can enhance kratom's mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects while improving overall mental health. I’ve noticed that it can enhance my alertness when mountain biking or skiing.
Mindset Practices – Plants often help me transform the way I feel about life, allowing me to relax into the moment while keeping an eye on my future. Incorporating a mindset practice into your daily routine can amplify the effects of kratom and kava.
Balanced Nutrition – A diet rich in clean proteins, fats, and vegetables can support cognitive function and enhance the active metabolites in kratom and kava.
Relationships – Express love and gratitude to your spouse, kids, and closest friends daily. Connect with other founders through platforms like Charlie Gaudet’s Predictable Profits boardroom discussions, where he and Joe Beecroft share experiences and strategies.

Biology adapts quickly, and if you aren’t resetting your neurological receptors through these methods, you might not be getting the full benefits.

A Word of Caution

While my experience with kratom has been overwhelmingly positive, it's crucial to approach its use responsibly. Kratom can carry a risk of dependence, especially at higher doses or with long-term use. Always consult with a healthcare professional before adding kratom to your routine, particularly if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Conclusion: Empowering Founders Through Natural Solutions

The entrepreneurial journey is fraught with challenges, but it doesn't have to come at the cost of your mental and physical health. By incorporating natural solutions like kratom, along with a holistic approach to wellness, we can navigate the stresses of startup life more effectively.

Remember Naval Ravikant’s advice: "Focus on building the skill that makes you unique. That's where your true value lies." By taking care of your mental and physical well-being, you're investing in your most valuable asset – yourself.

My journey with kratom, guided by Spencer’s expertise, has transformed my approach to entrepreneurship. It has allowed me to manage pain, reduce anxiety, and maintain focus during the most challenging times. While every founder's path is unique, I hope sharing my experience opens doors to new possibilities for those struggling with the mental toll of building a business.

As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation in our respective fields, let’s not forget to innovate in our approach to self-care. After all, a healthy, focused, and resilient founder is the cornerstone of any successful startup.

Why Founders Fuel Is Better Than Coffee

Coffee burns you out. Founders Fuel builds you up. Enhanced with Kratom, Kava, and adaptogens, it fuels your focus without the crash.

Boost its benefits with these therapies:

Supplements: Add Ashwagandha for cortisol control and L-theanine for alpha brainwaves.
Light Therapy: Use a light therapy box for mood enhancement and energy.
Advanced Biohacking Tools: Try a Muse headband for guided meditation to pair with Founders Fuel.

Success starts with the right fuel. Choose wisely.

Does Kava Make You High?

Kava doesn’t make you high. It’s a state of calm, not intoxication. It works with your nervous system to reduce stress, leaving your mind clear.

To enhance Kava’s effects, try these:

Supplements: Bacopa monnieri for improved mental resilience.
Advanced Techniques: Practice Transcendental Meditation for amplified calm.
Sound Therapy: Use binaural beats to deepen relaxation alongside Kava.

Kava is about balance. Add these therapies to optimize its benefits.

Is Kava Safe? A Guide to Kava Consumption

Kava is safe when used correctly. Stick to traditional noble strains and avoid mixing it with alcohol. Start small and increase as needed.

For a safer, more enhanced experience, consider:

Supplements: Combine with Rhodiola rosea for stress adaptation.
Advanced Techniques: Use flotation therapy for a deep meditative state.
Light Therapy: Try infrared saunas for detoxification post-Kava.

With mindfulness, Kava becomes a powerful tool for calm and focus.

Is Kratom Legal?

Kratom legality varies. In the U.S., it's federally legal but restricted in some states. Always check your local laws before using.

For those exploring Kratom within legal guidelines, amplify its effects with:

Supplements: Add Ashwagandha for balanced cortisol response.
Nature-Based Interventions: Engage in forest bathing to reconnect with nature.
Sound Therapy: Use isochronic tones to enhance mental clarity.

Kratom is a legal gray area in some places. When used responsibly, it’s a bridge to focus and wellness.

Founders Fuel: A Cognitive Performance Boost

These ingredients may support cell signaling and cognitive performance, potentially offering an alternative to prescription medications like Adderall.

Key Ingredients and Their Effects:

Kratom – Enhances mood, focus, and motivation while reducing anxiety.
Kava – Promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves cognitive function.
L-theanine – Increases alpha brain waves, promoting relaxation and alertness.
Lion’s Mane – Supports neuronal health and neuroplasticity.

How These Ingredients Work Together:

Neurotransmitter Modulation – Optimizes brain chemistry for better focus and mood.
Stress Reduction – Reduces mental “noise” for improved concentration.
Neuroprotection – Supports brain health and reduces inflammation.
Mood Enhancement – Increases motivation and reduces negative thought patterns.

Mindfulness Enhancement with Founders Fuel

Supplements:

L-theanine, Bacopa monnieri, Ashwagandha, Rhodiola rosea, and Lion’s Mane.

Advanced Biohacking Tools:

Muse headband, HeartMath devices for HRV training.

Advanced Techniques:

Flotation therapy, Transcendental Meditation, Wim Hof Breathing.

Nature-Based Interventions:

Forest bathing, earthing for grounding.

Sound Therapy:

Binaural beats, Tibetan singing bowls.

Light Therapy:

Infrared saunas, light therapy boxes for mood regulation.

Founders Fuel is designed to optimize performance, resilience, and clarity for those pushing boundaries in entrepreneurship.

Natural Ways for Founders to Focus

Your best focus comes from nature and intention. Combine foundational habits like sleep and hydration with the calming energy of Kratom and Kava.

To refine your focus further, consider

• Supplements: Rhodiola rosea (200-400mg) for stress resilience and Lion’s Mane (500-1000mg) for neuroplasticity.

• Advanced Techniques: Explore Holotropic breathwork for altered states of clarity.

• Sound Therapy: Try isochronic tones for brainwave entrainment.

Clarity isn’t complicated. Use natural tools to unlock your potential.