Podcast Summary: Cleared Hot - Episode 369 with Brian Hubbard
Podcast Information:
- Title: Cleared Hot
- Host: Andy Stumpf
- Guest: Brian Hubbard
- Episode: 369 - Bryan Hubbard
- Release Date: January 13, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 369 of Cleared Hot, host Andy Stumpf engages in a profound and insightful conversation with Brian Hubbard, a former Kentucky Attorney General's Office official who has been at the forefront of combating medical fraud and leading the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission. The episode delves deep into the intricate web of corruption within governmental and pharmaceutical systems, the devastating impact of the opioid crisis in Kentucky, and the promising yet contentious role of ibogaine as a potential breakthrough treatment for opioid addiction.
Brian Hubbard’s Background and Resignation
Brian Hubbard provides an extensive overview of his journey from accidental legal career inception to becoming a key player in Kentucky’s fight against the opioid epidemic. His tenure was marked by significant accomplishments but also ended abruptly due to systemic resistance.
“By the time I was through the first semester in Law school, that was certainly what I was wishing. But by that time the debt shackles of student loans were on and there was no choice but to go through to the end.” [10:01]
Hubbard recounts being asked to resign on December 15, 2023, following his efforts to introduce ibogaine as a therapeutic option, highlighting the entrenched corruption and resistance from established interests.
“On December 15th I was told I needed to leave for doing this project.” [143:27]
Corruption in the Legal System
A significant portion of the discussion centers on Hubbard’s critique of the American legal system, emphasizing the undue power vested in judges and the manipulation of laws to serve the interests of the powerful rather than uphold justice.
“When you begin to write volumes and volumes and volumes of language that we call law... you open up an infinite number of linguistic possibilities to infinitely manipulate legal realities to come to the predetermined outcome that the person who holds the power to apply it wishes to achieve.” [11:49]
Hubbard argues that the legal system, as it stands, often serves as a tool for maintaining control and perpetuating inequality, rather than as a means of achieving genuine justice.
The Opioid Crisis in Kentucky
Hubbard provides a harrowing account of the opioid crisis in Kentucky, detailing how historical economic exploitation laid the groundwork for widespread addiction and how pharmaceutical companies like Purdue Pharma exacerbated the situation.
“Kentucky is the second hardest hit state in the nation.” [transcript timing not precise]
He highlights the systemic failures in addressing addiction, including the flawed workers' compensation system and the rampant over-prescription of opioids, leading to devastating societal impacts.
“Opioid dependence in Kentucky is an administrative law judge framework... when I would go to conduct a hearing, I could look and see who the lawyer was and who the judge was and know exactly what the outcome of the case was going to be.” [45:02]
Ibogaine as a Treatment
Ibogaine emerges as a central topic, presented by Hubbard as a transformative treatment for opioid addiction. He contrasts it with traditional methods like methadone and Suboxone, emphasizing its potential to provide long-term recovery without the same dependencies.
“Ibogaine is a sophisticated medication that has been discovered in the history of modern science.” [109:27]
Hubbard discusses the neuropharmacological benefits of ibogaine, citing studies and personal testimonials that demonstrate its efficacy in reversing addiction and regenerating brain function.
“I believe that plant medicine are engineered to meet the unique spiritual needs of the human being.” [97:41]
Efforts to Promote Ibogaine and Opposition
Hubbard details his endeavors to secure funding and legislative support for ibogaine treatment in Kentucky, including his interactions with philanthropists and researchers. Despite bipartisan support from some quarters, he faced staunch opposition from institutions like the University of Kentucky and the incumbent Governor Andy Beshear.
“Sharon Walsh is a zealous advocate for what she calls medication for opioid use disorder... she was one of the first focal opponents to the Ibogaine project.” [173:14]
He reveals the financial underpinnings of the opposition, linking it to pharmaceutical interests that stand to lose from the adoption of alternative treatments like ibogaine.
“There is a nexus of financial interests which unifies the opponents of this project and the sponsorship that they have received from the industry which stands to lose the most...” [164:06]
Personal Experiences with Ibogaine
In a compelling personal testament, Hubbard shares his and his wife’s experiences with ibogaine treatment, illustrating the profound positive changes it can engender. These narratives serve to humanize the treatment and underscore its potential beyond clinical data.
“She said, I started looking Online... and I came across this thing called ibogaine.” [109:27]
Hubbard emphasizes the importance of intention and proper setting in ensuring the efficacy and safety of ibogaine treatments, advocating for its integration into mainstream medical practice.
“Those plants are not recreational; they are sacred and must be administered with the correct intention.” [112:34]
Conclusion and Future Directions
The episode concludes with Hubbard outlining his continued efforts to promote ibogaine, now extending his mission to Texas following his ousting in Kentucky. He calls on listeners to support the initiative through advocacy and awareness, framing ibogaine as a beacon of hope against the pervasive opioid crisis.
“Change is coming and it can't come quick enough.” [181:14]
Hubbard’s unwavering commitment to transforming addiction treatment showcases his belief in ibogaine’s potential to revolutionize mental health care, despite formidable obstacles posed by entrenched financial and political interests.
Notable Quotes:
- “I wish your audience looks that up...” [11:49]
- “We have poured an immense amount of resources into the creation of a treatment infrastructure that is not delivering the sorts of results that we need...” [71:01]
- “Diversify, expand and improve options government systems provide to citizens to live better lives.” [178:57]
- “What you do is about what you do.” [186:33]
Timestamp References:
- Legal System Corruption: [11:49]
- Resignation Due to Ibogaine Advocacy: [143:27]
- Opioid Crisis in Kentucky: [45:02]
- Ibogaine Treatment Mechanics: [97:41], [109:27]
- Opposition from University of Kentucky: [173:14], [164:06]
- Personal Ibogaine Experience: [112:34]
- Future Efforts in Texas: [181:14]
This episode of Cleared Hot offers a deep dive into the intersection of law, healthcare, and corporate influence, presenting a potent narrative of resistance against systemic corruption. Brian Hubbard’s relentless pursuit of alternative treatments like ibogaine underscores the urgent need for reform in addiction treatment methodologies and governmental accountability.