Kratom and Kava: The Founder's Secret Weapon for Peak Performance

Entrepreneurs are ditching caffeine crashes and endless cups of coffee for something smoother: kratom and kava. These natural botanicals are gaining traction as tools for steady energy, focus, and stress management without the jitters or dependency risks. Here's the deal:

• Kava: Promotes calm and focus by interacting with GABA receptors. Perfect for reducing stress while staying sharp.
• Kratom: At low doses (under 5 grams), it boosts energy and alertness. A solid choice to power through long workdays.

Both have centuries of traditional use - kava in Pacific Island ceremonies and kratom for stamina in Southeast Asia. Today, founders are using them to tackle afternoon slumps, mental fog, and high-stakes decision-making.

Key Points:

• Kava: Relaxation without losing focus; great for stress-heavy moments.
• Kratom: Natural energy boost; avoid the caffeine crash.
• Safety: Stick to low doses, use lab-tested products, and avoid mixing with alcohol or sedatives.
• Legal Status: Kava is legal nationwide; kratom is banned in some states.

For those ready to level up, products like Founders Fuel combine kava, kratom, Lion's Mane, and L-theanine for a balanced hit of energy and mental clarity. Just remember: responsible use is everything.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Ep 68: Abram Jacobson Talks Kratom, Kava, and Responsible Use

sbb-itb-02d64da

What Are Kratom and Kava?

Kratom and kava, both steeped in centuries of use, hail from Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, respectively. In Pacific Island cultures, kava has long been brewed to encourage relaxation and social connection. Kratom, on the other hand, comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, part of the coffee family, and is native to regions like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Traditionally, locals chewed kratom leaves or prepared them as tea to combat fatigue and endure long workdays.

The effects of these botanicals stem from their active compounds. Kava contains 18 kavalactones, which influence nerve signals and enhance GABA activity. Kratom, with over 40 alkaloids, relies primarily on mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine - compounds known for their potent stimulant and sedative effects, with the latter being 13 times stronger than morphine. These properties make kava and kratom appealing for those seeking to manage stress, maintain focus, and boost mental clarity. Let’s explore how each plant supports energy and concentration.

Kava: Relaxation Without Losing Focus

Kava offers a sense of calm that reduces stress without dulling the mind. Unlike alcohol, it promotes relaxation and social ease without impairing clarity. This calming effect comes from kavalactones binding to GABA receptors, similar to how certain anti-anxiety medications work. Dr. Robert Ashley, an internist and assistant professor at UCLA Health, explains:

"Kava can help reduce anxiety... kava binds to a different GABA receptor than benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, Valium, or Ativan. This aspect may make kava less addictive than these other medications used for situational anxiety."

A 2003 review of 11 randomized controlled trials revealed that kava significantly reduced anxiety in 10 out of 11 studies compared to a placebo. Users often report a tingling or numbing sensation on the tongue and throat, commonly called "kava tongue".

Kratom: A Natural Energy Boost

Kratom’s effects vary depending on the dose. At lower doses (around 3 grams or less), it acts as a stimulant, increasing energy, alertness, and even social confidence. Effects typically begin within 10 minutes and last for about 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a popular choice for staying sharp during morning tasks or shaking off an afternoon slump. Higher doses (5–15 grams), however, produce more sedative and pain-relieving effects, resembling opioids. For productivity, sticking to low doses is key. As Real Botanicals notes:

"At lower doses (around 3 grams or less), kratom may increase energy, support alertness, and give wings to your inner social butterfly."

Safety and Legal Considerations in the U.S.

Before adding kratom or kava to your routine, it’s essential to understand their safety profiles and legal status. Kava is legal across all 50 states, while kratom remains federally legal but banned in states like Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Rhode Island. Some cities also impose restrictions, and minimum purchase ages vary, such as 18 in North Carolina and 21 in South Carolina.

While generally safe when used responsibly, both substances carry potential risks. Heavy, long-term kava use has been linked to liver toxicity and a condition called "kava dermopathy", which causes dry, scaly skin. Kratom, too, poses liver risks and may lead to dependence or withdrawal symptoms if misused. To minimize these risks, choose lab-tested, high-quality products and avoid mixing either substance with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives. Always consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you’re on medication.

How Kratom and Kava Address Common Founder Challenges

Kratom and kava can help tackle the hurdles that come with running a startup while improving day-to-day performance. Founders constantly juggle investor pitches, tight deadlines, and team dynamics. While many rely on coffee or pharmaceuticals to power through, these options often bring unwanted side effects. Kratom and kava offer a natural alternative, targeting the specific challenges entrepreneurs face.

Managing Stress When the Stakes Are High

Whether it’s a make-or-break investor pitch or a heated negotiation, staying calm and focused is non-negotiable. Kava’s interaction with GABA receptors has been shown to support relaxation without the addictive risks tied to some pharmaceuticals. Studies highlight kava’s effectiveness in reducing anxiety, making it a practical choice for founders who need to stay composed during crucial moments - be it handling tough client calls, resolving conflicts, or leading under pressure. Unlike pharmaceuticals, kava promotes calmness without mental fog.

Beating the Afternoon Energy Crash

The dreaded afternoon slump can tank productivity. Many turn to coffee for a quick fix, but caffeine often leads to jitters and an inevitable crash. Kratom offers a smoother alternative. In low doses (1–5 grams), it can enhance alertness within minutes, providing steady energy for up to 1.5 hours by improving blood and oxygen flow. Jamal Bouie, a biomedicine PhD candidate, explains:

"The active alkaloids in leaf kratom are known to boost energy and enhance focus without the negative side effects that come from coffee".

For founders, this means powering through the afternoon without the rollercoaster ride caffeine often brings.

Enhancing Mental Clarity and Decision-Making

Strategic decisions and problem-solving demand a clear head. Kava reduces stress-induced mental clutter, while low-dose kratom sustains focus, creating a balanced state of calm alertness. As Bouie notes:

"Kava helps keep your mind clear while your body stays calm, giving you balanced energy throughout the day".

This clarity is invaluable for deep work - whether it’s analyzing data, reviewing contracts, or mapping out product strategies. A survey of over 6,000 kratom users found that more than 90% considered it "very effective" for managing productivity or health-related challenges. For founders, this translates to sharper focus and longer periods of sustained concentration, along with the emotional steadiness needed to lead effectively.

Boosting Emotional Resilience and Social Confidence

Entrepreneurship often requires navigating tricky interpersonal dynamics, from team challenges to high-pressure networking events. Kava’s calming properties not only sharpen focus but also ease social interactions, making conversations feel more natural. Historically used in Pacific Island communities to build social bonds, kava is now appreciated for enhancing confidence in professional settings.

Similarly, low doses of kratom can elevate mood and energy, further supporting social ease. This combination equips founders to handle the human side of business - whether delivering tough feedback, connecting with potential partners, or lifting team morale during tough times. Together, these botanicals help entrepreneurs maintain their composure and authenticity when relationships are on the line.

How to Use Kratom and Kava Responsibly

Responsible use of kratom and kava can help you maintain balance while supporting your goals. Timing, dosage, and product quality are key to reaping benefits without compromising your well-being.

When and How Much to Take

Start small and see how your body responds. For kava, an initial dose of 70–120 mg of kavalactones is recommended. The therapeutic range is 70–250 mg per serving, best taken on an empty stomach about 3–4 hours after eating. Effects typically kick in within 15–30 minutes and last for 1–3 hours. For kratom, lower doses are known to boost energy and focus, while higher amounts are more calming.

During work hours, opt for "heady" kava strains (chemotypes led by 3 and 5) to stay sharp. Save "heavy" strains (chemotypes led by 2, 4, and 6) for unwinding in the evening.

Be patient - reverse tolerance means it might take a few sessions to fully experience the effects. Avoid increasing your dose too quickly. Stick to no more than two servings in a 24-hour period to reduce the risk of dependency.

Once you’ve got the dosing down, make sure you're only using products that meet the highest quality standards.

Choosing Lab-Tested, High-Quality Products

Always prioritize safety and quality. Look for products from FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facilities with third-party ISO/IEC 17025 lab testing. These tests verify the levels of active compounds and screen for contaminants like heavy metals, bacteria, and mold toxins.

For kava, choose "noble" cultivars made exclusively from peeled roots. Avoid "two-day" varieties or products containing stems, as these have been linked to liver toxicity. Silas, a Healthy Living Specialist at Flavor365, advises:

"Focusing on the kavalactone content, which reputable vendors list on their products, allows for consistent and predictable dosing every single time".

With kratom, stick to natural leaf products rather than synthetic versions or concentrated extracts, which carry higher risks of dependency. Always request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) before buying, as some kratom products have been found to contain heavy metals and unauthorized substances.

Best Practices to Minimize Risks

After selecting safe, high-quality products, follow these tips to reduce potential risks when incorporating kratom or kava into your routine.

Avoid mixing kratom or kava with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives. Limit kava use to less than 1–2 months and avoid daily kratom use to protect your liver and reduce dependency risks. Taking regular breaks will help your system reset and prevent side effects like kava dermopathy, which can cause dry, scaly skin.

Dr. Robert Ashley from UCLA Health suggests keeping kava doses under 240 mg per day to minimize toxicity risks. For kratom, skipping daily use can help prevent dependency and withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, agitation, or trouble sleeping.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver issues, or are taking medications metabolized by the liver (like antidepressants), consult a healthcare provider before using these botanicals. Start cautiously, monitor how you feel, and adjust your use gradually.

Founders Fuel: The Botanical Blend for Peak Performance

Founders Fuel is a compact, power-packed formula crafted for entrepreneurs. Featuring Kava, Kratom, Lion's Mane, and L-theanine, this 2 oz bottle delivers consistent, performance-focused results.

What’s Inside: Kava, Kratom, Lion's Mane, and L-theanine

This formula is a carefully balanced mix designed to provide calm focus, steady energy, and sharp mental clarity. Here’s how each ingredient plays its role:

• Kava: Known for promoting calmness, it works by activating GABA receptors, helping reduce stress without making you groggy.
• Kratom: A caffeine-free member of the coffee family, it boosts energy and motivation.
• Lion's Mane: Supports brain health and enhances cognitive clarity over the long term.
• L-theanine: Smooths out the experience, ensuring you stay focused without feeling jittery.

Dr. Jamal Bouie, a PhD candidate in Biomedicine, highlights the synergy:

"Kava in feel free helps sharpen your mind and reduce stress, while leaf kratom works to provide additional energy and focus, promoting clear thinking and stable energy".

By combining these elements, Founders Fuel tackles both immediate performance demands and long-term cognitive support - something standalone supplements can’t achieve.

Built for the Hustlers

Founders Fuel is tailored for professionals juggling tight schedules and high-pressure tasks. Each 2 oz bottle is produced in an FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facility and tested in ISO/IEC 17025 accredited labs to ensure purity and potency.

It’s easy to use: start with 1 oz (half a bottle), and you’ll feel the effects within 15–30 minutes. If the earthy flavor isn’t your thing, chill the bottle or mix it with coconut water for a smoother taste. Stick to no more than one bottle per day to avoid dependency risks.

Pricing That Works for You

Pick the plan that fits your needs:

Purchase Option	Price	Features
Founders Circle Subscription	$229/month	12 bottles (24 servings), recurring delivery, free shipping
One-Time Purchase	$279	12 bottles (24 servings), no commitment, free shipping

With the subscription, you save $50 per month and never risk running out during crunch time. Both options feature the same rigorously tested formula, which has earned an 89% 5-star rating from 749 reviews.

Conclusion

Running a business often means juggling constant demands and making high-pressure decisions. For those seeking a natural way to stay focused, calm, and energized, kava and kratom offer an alternative to traditional stimulants. Kava helps ease stress while maintaining mental clarity, and kratom provides steady energy and motivation to power through your workday.

When used responsibly and sourced from rigorously tested vendors, these botanicals can support peak performance without the risk of dependency. Starting with small doses and respecting daily limits ensures you can enjoy their benefits safely.

Founders Fuel takes these benefits a step further. With its blend of kava, kratom, Lion's Mane, and L-theanine, each 2 oz bottle offers a balanced solution tailored to the demands of entrepreneurship. Effects kick in within 15–30 minutes, delivering mental clarity and sustained energy right when you need it most.

Priced at $229 per month for the Founders Circle subscription (12 bottles, 24 servings), this rigorously tested product boasts an 89% 5-star rating. Whether you're preparing for a critical pitch or battling afternoon fatigue, it provides a reliable edge without compromising your sleep or overall health.

For entrepreneurs, choosing a botanical solution like this offers a smarter, more dependable alternative to conventional stimulants.

FAQs

How can kratom and kava benefit entrepreneurs looking to improve performance?

Kratom and kava have gained attention among entrepreneurs seeking to stay sharp and composed under pressure. These natural botanicals are often associated with promoting mental clarity, easing stress, and fostering a calm, steady mindset - qualities that are crucial in high-stakes environments.

What sets them apart from common stimulants like coffee is their ability to deliver steady energy without the typical jitters or post-caffeine crashes. When used mindfully, they can become part of a balanced approach to maintaining productivity and overall well-being, offering an edge in the demanding world of entrepreneurship.

Are there legal or safety issues to consider when using kratom and kava?

Yes, there are key legal and safety aspects to consider when it comes to kratom and kava. In the U.S., kratom has not been approved by the FDA, and its legal status varies from state to state. While it remains legal in many places, some states have outright banned its sale. On top of that, federal agencies are still assessing its safety, as rare but severe side effects - like psychiatric, cardiovascular, and respiratory issues - have been reported. These incidents often involve other substances or contaminants.

Kava, on the other hand, faces regulation in certain areas due to concerns about potential liver toxicity. If you're thinking about trying kava or kratom, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider first, particularly if you have existing health conditions or take other medications. To reduce risks, start with small doses and stick to products from trusted, reputable sources.

How does Founders Fuel support peak performance without the drawbacks of traditional stimulants?

Founders Fuel brings together the natural qualities of low-dose kratom and kava to create a balanced way to support daily performance. Kratom offers a light boost in energy and sharpness, while kava encourages a calm, focused state of mind. The combination helps sustain consistent productivity and composure throughout the day.

Unlike coffee and other traditional stimulants that often cause jitters or energy crashes, Founders Fuel provides a steadier, smoother experience. It’s an appealing option for entrepreneurs aiming to stay focused and effective under pressure - without relying on caffeine.