Dr. Steven Mandel and his son, CEO Sam Mandel, founded Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles in 2014, which in psychedelic awareness and acceptance years seems eons ago. That's where we began our discussion, with Dr. Mandel relating just how foreign and at times scary navigating this novel territory was. As an anesthesiologist with a thriving practice and a deep interest in psychology, it took a professional and personal leap of faith to begin the journey.

Flash forward nearly a decade and there doesn't seem to be a week that goes by where there isn't a new newsworthy bit on how psychedelics of all sorts, are inching further and further into the mainstream's consciousness as a viable methodology for the treatment of a pantheon of disorders and conditions, long misunderstood and becoming disturbingly more prevalent in our families and communities.

Steven and Sam's vantage as some of the first entrepreneurs administering ketamine via the off-label IV infusion modality offers a very unique insight into how this space has evolved and continues to evolve. They are able to speak from the experience of innumerable hours of administration, observation, and adaptation. The goal has remained the same from the onset, helping people not only return from the depths of despondency resulting from chronic mood disorders to functionality, but to the ability to experience pleasure and a lasting value of wellness. The ketamine is but a component of the process, but the power of this tool inspires and motivates Dr. Steven and Sam daily, still.

Follow KCLA IG: @KetamineClinicsLA

KCLA Website: ketamineclinics.com

KCLA on Facebook: Facebook

Follow MINDBEND IG: @mindbendpodcast

Watch Full Episode on YouTube: @mindbendpodcast

Website: www.mindbendcreative.com

This is an Operation Podcast production, connect with us @operationpodcast