VLM with AnnClaire Stapelton

In a recent episode of the Veteran Lifestyle Magazine podcast, Ann Claire Stapleton, an award-winning journalist turned psychedelic therapy advocate, shared her journey and insights into the transformative potential of Ibogaine and psychedelic therapies. This episode dives into the intersection of trauma, healing, and advocacy, offering a compelling narrative for veterans, military spouses, and individuals affected by trauma and substance use.

Ann Claire Stapleton is not only a military spouse but also the daughter of a parent recovering from substance abuse. Her journey from CNN’s Senior International Producer and Editor to becoming a leading voice in psychedelic therapy advocacy has been transformative. "I think over time that constant exposure to trauma, it builds up and it slowly changes how you perceive the world," she shared. This profound realization led her to explore alternative therapeutic options for trauma and substance use disorder.

Ibogaine, a psychoactive compound derived from African plant Iboga, has shown promise in treating opioid withdrawal and PTSD among veterans. Stapleton became aware of its potential while still working at CNN, exploring its effects during her days off. She described the influence of Ibogaine, saying, "I couldn't believe that something this powerful even existed and that I never heard about before."

With a notable career at CNN, Stapleton made a bold decision to leave and pursue advocacy full time. "It just felt like all the signs were pointing that, that the time was now to be able to make a big jump and try and use what skills that I have as a storyteller," she explained. This shift was driven by personal experiences and the desire to make a wider impact beyond her journalism career.

Stapleton stressed the importance of addressing trauma not by comparing its severity but by acknowledging its impact: "Trauma is subjective...let's just work on fixing it." Her advocacy shines a light on the need for more research and access to psychedelic therapies, emphasizing their potential to heal not just veterans but also the broader population affected by addiction and trauma.

Stapleton, along with other advocates, aims to make Ibogaine treatment accessible in the United States. "I originally jumped into the sphere not knowing really anything about psychedelics...I just had no knowledge of that. It wasn't part of my world at all," she admitted. Her organization, Americans for Ibogaine, focuses on educating lawmakers and the public about the medical benefits of Ibogaine and other psychedelics, emphasizing its role in re-opening dormant parts of the brain damaged by trauma.

Throughout the podcast, Stapleton highlighted the significance of storytelling in advocacy. By sharing personal testimony and scientific studies, she aims to change hearts and minds. "When you can change hearts and minds, then you can change policy," she stated. Her work includes producing videos and participating in documentaries to spread awareness about the potential of psychedelic therapy.

A Call to Action

The conversation with Ann Claire Stapleton highlights the urgent need for awareness and action in the realm of psychedelic therapy. Her insights and experiences underscore the potential of these therapies to bring healing and hope to countless individuals. She encourages others to join the movement, stating, "Every conversation we have, we might only reach a couple dozen people, but those couple dozen people know another couple dozen who know another couple dozen and it just spreads like wildfire."

For more information and to follow Ann Claire Stapleton’s journey, you can access her work through Veteran Lifestyle Magazine and various social media platforms. Her advocacy continues to pave a way for significant changes in how trauma and addiction are understood and treated in our society.

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