In this episode of the Ketamine StartUp Podcast, Drs. Sam and Kim Ko share insights from their years of experience in running a ketamine clinic. They dive deep into the top mistakes practitioners make when starting a ketamine clinic and how to avoid them.

This episode is a must-listen for medical professionals exploring the world of ketamine therapy.

What You’ll Learn In This Episode:

・The critical role of patient care and ethical practices in clinic success.

・How marketing effectively can make or break a new ketamine clinic.

・Why aligning values with actions ensures long-term stability and growth.

Episode 26 show notes:

00:00 Teaser - Don’t Do It For The Money

00:34 Top 10 Ways to Fail as a Ketamine Clinic Intro

00:46 #1 Prescribing At-home Ketamine without Proper Supervision

04:11 #2 Ignoring Set and Setting

08:11 #3 Saying “Yes” to Every Patient

11:53 #4 Leaving Your Stable Job Too Early

15:17 #5 Hiring The Wrong Staff

20:14 #6 Failing To Market Effectively

26:23 #7 Not Taking Ketamine Therapy Seriously

32:17 Free Checklist for Starting a Ketamine Clinic

33:17 #8 Focusing on Patients Over Profits

40:34 #9 Not Addressing the Psychedelic Experience

42:13 #10 Scaling Too Early or Taking on The Wrong Investors

47:48 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Thanks for listening

Selected Links From the Episode:

Who: The A Method for Hiring by Geoff Smart and Randy Street

Episode 9 - Healing Journeys: Ayahuasca, Ketamine Therapy, & Spirituality With Dr. Joe Tafur

🚀 Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

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🚨Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide, trauma, and PTSD. Listener discretion is advised, as some content may not be suitable for all audiences. Please prioritize your well-being while listening.

In this episode, Sam sits down with Dr. Mel Herbert, acclaimed emergency medicine physician, founder of EM:RAP, and advocate for mental health in healthcare. In this compelling episode, Dr. Herbert shares his transformative journey with ketamine therapy, explores the mental health crises plaguing physicians, and reflects on his remarkable career in medicine and education. 

From forgiveness to burnout and the evolving landscape of psychedelic treatments, this episode is a must-listen for physicians, mental health professionals, and aspiring clinic owners.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

・Mental health challenges in healthcare: Discover why physicians often face crises at retirement and how to address these struggles proactively.

・Ketamine therapy insights: Understand the therapeutic potential of ketamine, including its impact on neuroplasticity and the importance of integration and psychotherapy.

・Building resilience through forgiveness: Learn how forgiveness and self-awareness can help unburden emotional trauma and foster mental and emotional well-being.

Episode 25 show notes:

00:00 Teaser - I’m a New Man

00:51 Welcome to the Ketamine Startup Podcast

01:20 Introducing Dr. Mel Herbert

02:17 Choosing Emergency Medicine

04:49 Training in the U.S.

07:07 Academic and Clinical Career

08:59 Founding EM:RAP

12:31 Transitioning Out of Clinical Practice

17:45 Mental Health in Emergency Medicine

22:16 Personal Struggles and Ketamine Therapy

34:14 Hope and Future of Mental Health Treatments

34:40 Free Checklist for Starting a Ketamine Clinic

36:27 Experiencing Ketamine: A Journey to Neverland

37:38 Overcoming Anxiety and Embracing the Experience

39:29 The Role of Psychotherapy in Ketamine Treatment

41:19 The G Factor and Expanding Consciousness

02:13 Forgiveness and Healing Relationships

50:26 Advice for Physicians Facing Burnout

57:59 Financial Wisdom for Medical Professionals

01:02:16 Fun Questions and Personal Insights

01:08:50 Final Thoughts and Where to Connect

Thanks for listening

Connect with Dr. Herbert:

Website: https://melherbert.com/

Email: [email protected]

Latest podcast: Dirty White Coat

Selected Links from the Episode:

EM:RAP

EM:RAP GO

Dr. Herbert’s book - The Extraordinary Power of Being Average - all proceeds go to EM:RAP GO

Rob Orman Stimulus Podcast

Dr. Lorna Breen

Looking Downriver by Tyler Jorgensen

Connect with us:

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Facebook

Linkedin

Ketamine StartUp Website

🚀 Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

Running a ketamine therapy clinic comes with unique challenges, but implementing best practices can make all the difference. In this episode, hosts Dr. Kimberly Chan Ko and Dr. Sam Ko share the 13 best practices they’ve developed since opening their clinic in 2018. 

Recorded during a live mastermind session with their course students, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of important considerations for running a ketamine clinic, including the importance of having a staff member present during infusions, creating a network of professionals, and maintaining meticulous records.

Whether you’re just starting or refining your operations, these insights will help you navigate common obstacles, better serve your patients, and set your clinic up for long-term success.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Proven strategies for patient care: Explore how having a staff member present during infusions ensures safety and enhances therapeutic outcomes.

• Effective preparation and integration techniques: Learn how to help patients maximize the benefits of ketamine therapy before and after treatments.

• Collaborative approaches to care: Understand the importance of building a network of therapists and psychiatrists for holistic patient support.

Episode 24 show notes:

00:00 Episode Teaser -  Slow & Scary

00:40 Welcome to the Ketamine Startup Podcast

01:19 Best Practice #1: Staff Presence During Infusions

03:46 Best Practice #2: Review Medical Records

07:12 Best Practice #3: Emergency Protocols

10:46 Best Practice #4: Patient Preparation

13:37 Best Practice #5: Integration Plan

16:25 Best Practice #6: Network of Therapists and Coaches

19:37 Best Practice #7: Patience in Building Your Clinic

22:49 Best Practice #8: Track Scheduled Substances

24:00 Best Practice #9: Monitor Vital Signs

26:59 Best Practice #10: Keep Overhead Low

30:00 Best Practice #11: Trust Your Intuition

33:03 Best Practice #12: One Step at a Time

34:01 Best Practice #13: Expect and Embrace Challenges

36:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Thanks for listening

🚀 Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

In this episode, Sam welcomes Dennis Wichern, a retired DEA special agent who now runs Prescription Drug Consulting, to discuss various aspects of compliance and regulatory guidance essential for running a ketamine infusion clinic. 

Dennis shares his extensive background in federal law enforcement and provides valuable insights into the DEA's procedures for audits, record keeping, and security. 

The episode also covers the historical context of the DEA, the impact of telehealth on controlled substance regulations, and advice for clinicians on risk mitigation and best practices.

Friendly reminder: this podcast is for educational purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speaker and do not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with a professional before making decisions for your business or medical practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Understanding DEA Audits: Learn about what triggers a DEA visit and the focus areas of these audits.

• Record Keeping Essentials: Discuss the critical elements of record keeping and how to avoid common pitfalls.

• Advice for New Clinicians: Practical advice for clinicians new to the field, focusing on compliance and ethical practice.

Episode 23 show notes:

00:00 Teaser - When The DEA Visits You…

00:22 Welcome to the Ketamine Startup Podcast

00:35 Meet Dennis Wichern: DEA Special Agent Turned Consultant

01:45 Dennis Wichern's Career Journey with the DEA

03:13 Transition to Pharmaceutical Control and Consulting

06:27 Understanding the DEA's Role and Regulations

08:08 The Banking Model Metaphor for DEA Regulations

12:29 Key Elements of Record Keeping and Security

15:22 Risk and Penalties for Ketamine Clinics

23:25 Red Flags and DEA Audits

27:14 Free Ketamine Clinic Startup Checklist

27:58 State-Level DEA Enforcement Variations

31:25 Advice for Clinicians on Inventory Management

33:31 Witnessing and Documentation in Small Clinics

35:47 Online Ketamine Therapy and DEA Perspectives

40:51 Political Influence on DEA Regulations

44:20 Starting a Ketamine Clinic: Key Advice

50:40 Rapid Fire Questions and Contact Information

52:53 Closing remarks

Thanks for listening

Connect with Dennis:

LinkedIn

Prescription Drug Consulting Website

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (312) 859-2430

Selected links and references:

Ryan Haight Act

This doctor prescribed ketamine from his home. DEA shut it down.

Missoula doctor settles alleged Controlled Substances Act recordkeeping violations for $85,000

✅ Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

This episode of the Ketamine Startup Podcast, comes from a presentation Sam gave at the American College of Emergency Physicians Scientific Assembly on October 1,  2024. Discover the journey of opening a ketamine clinic, the efficacy of IV ketamine for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain, and the mechanism behind its success. 

You will learn about the growing mental health crisis, high burnout rates among emergency physicians, and why ketamine therapy can be a rewarding alternative career path. 

Sam also shares the emotional and financial realities of running a ketamine clinic, emphasizing the importance of motivation, purpose, and personal fulfillment. Hear powerful testimonials from patients and gain practical advice for starting your own clinic. Don't miss this comprehensive guide filled with scientific studies, real-life experiences, and expert insights.

What You’ll Learn In This Episode:

• Career Transition: Discover how emergency physicians can pivot into running ketamine clinics and find greater autonomy and purpose.

• Clinical Evidence: Explore key studies supporting the use of ketamine therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain.

• Overcoming Challenges: Understand the financial and emotional challenges of running a ketamine clinic and how to stay motivated by focusing on your "why."

Episode 22 show notes:

00:00 Teaser - The Swimming Pool Dilemma

00:35 Introduction

01:10 Sam's Journey and Niche in Ketamine Therapy

03:12 The Mental Health Crisis

05:05 Challenges Faced by Emergency Physicians

06:13 Scientific Studies on IV Ketamine Therapy

08:45 Ketamine for Anxiety and PTSD

10:47 Ketamine for Chronic Pain

12:13 How Does Ketamine Work?

12:17 Ketamine's Impact on Neurotransmitters

13:11 Ketamine and Chronic Stress

14:06 Hallucinogenic Effects of Ketamine

14:57 Emergency Medicine and Ketamine

16:16 Starting a Ketamine Clinic

17:19 The Importance of Your 'Why'

18:33 Challenges and Rewards of a Ketamine Clinic

20:12 Patient Testimonials and Impact

21:34 Conclusion

Thanks for listening

🚀 Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

📺 Watch the video version with slides on Youtube

Selected Links From The Episode

84.  A Look Inside Ketamine Clinics (and how to start your own) | The Rob Orman Stimulus Podcast episode Sam was a guest on

How to Start a Ketamine Clinic | Sam’s White Coat investor guest blog post

Pursuit of Ketamine | The documentary Sam was featured in

Selected References From The Episode:

Kolp, Eli & L. Friedman, Harris & Krupitsky, Evgeny & Jansen, Karl & Sylvester, Mark & Young, Matthew & Kolp, Anna. (2014). Ketamine Psychedelic Psychotherapy: Focus on its Pharmacology, Phenomenology, and Clinical Applications. International Journal of Transpersonal Studies. 33. 84-140. 10.24972/ijts.2014.33.2.84.

Depression:

Berman RM, Cappiello A, Anand A, Oren DA, Heninger GR, Charney DS, Krystal JH. Antidepressant effects of ketamine in depressed patients. Biol Psychiatry. 2000 Feb 15;47(4):351-4. doi: 10.1016/s0006-3223(99)00230-9. PMID: 10686270.

Marcantoni WS, Akoumba BS, Wassef M, Mayrand J, Lai H, Richard-Devantoy S, Beauchamp S. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy of intravenous ketamine infusion for treatment resistant depression: January 2009 - January 2019. J Affect Disord. 2020 Dec 1;277:831-841. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.09.007. Epub 2020 Sep 7. PMID: 33065824.

Anand A, Mathew SJ, Sanacora G, Murrough JW, Goes FS, Altinay M, Aloysi AS, Asghar-Ali AA, Barnett BS, Chang LC, Collins KA, Costi S, Iqbal S, Jha MK, Krishnan K, Malone DA, Nikayin S, Nissen SE, Ostroff RB, Reti IM, Wilkinson ST, Wolski K, Hu B. Ketamine versus ECT for Nonpsychotic Treatment-Resistant Major Depression. N Engl J Med. 2023 Jun 22;388(25):2315-2325. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2302399. Epub 2023 May 24. PMID: 37224232.

Jha MK, Wilkinson ST, Krishnan K, Collins KA, Sanacora G, Murrough J, Goes F, Altinay M, Aloysi A, Asghar-Ali A, Barnett B, Chang L, Costi S, Malone D, Nikayin S, Nissen SE, Ostroff R, Reti I, Wolski K, Wang D, Hu B, Mathew SJ, Anand A. Ketamine vs Electroconvulsive Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024 Jun 3;7(6):e2417786. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.17786. PMID: 38916891; PMCID: PMC11200139.

Anxiety:

Glue P, Medlicott NJ, Harland S, Neehoff S, Anderson-Fahey B, Le Nedelec M, Gray A, McNaughton N. Ketamine's dose-related effects on anxiety symptoms in patients with treatment refractory anxiety disorders. J Psychopharmacol. 2017 Oct;31(10):1302-1305. doi: 10.1177/0269881117705089. Epub 2017 Apr 26. PMID: 28441895.

PTSD:

Feder A, Parides MK, Murrough JW, Perez AM, Morgan JE, Saxena S, Kirkwood K, Aan Het Rot M, Lapidus KA, Wan LB, Iosifescu D, Charney DS. Efficacy of intravenous ketamine for treatment of chronic posttraumatic stress disorder: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Psychiatry. 2014 Jun;71(6):681-8. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2014.62. PMID: 24740528.

Feder A, Costi S, Rutter SB, Collins AB, Govindarajulu U, Jha MK, Horn SR, Kautz M, Corniquel M, Collins KA, Bevilacqua L, Glasgow AM, Brallier J, Pietrzak RH, Murrough JW, Charney DS. A Randomized Controlled Trial of Repeated Ketamine Administration for Chronic Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Am J Psychiatry. 2021 Feb 1;178(2):193-202. doi: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2020.20050596. Epub 2021 Jan 5. PMID: 33397139.

Chronic Pain:

Orhurhu V, Orhurhu MS, Bhatia A, Cohen SP. Ketamine Infusions for Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Anesth Analg. 2019 Jul;129(1):241-25

In this episode of the Ketamine Startup Podcast Sam interviews Dr. Tiago Gil, an anesthesiologist from Brazil and a pioneer in the ketamine treatment landscape in his country. Dr. Gil shares his unique journey from traditional anesthesia practice to becoming a specialist in ketamine therapy, offering deep dives into the intricacies of ketamine’s impact and its practical applications.

Discover the importance of seeing ketamine as a treatment to provide patients rather than a product to be scaled and sold - emphasizing the deeply personal and empathetic approach necessary in interventional psychiatric mental healthcare.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:.

• Professional Development: Learn how continuous learning and specialization can lead to significant shifts in medical practice and patient care.

• Strategic Guidance: Gain valuable insights on navigating the medical and ethical considerations when introducing new treatments like ketamine, helping you tailor patient care approaches in diverse medical environments

• Innovative Approaches: Understand Dr. Gil's innovative approach to ketamine therapy, focusing on quality of life as the primary goal

Episode 21 show notes:

00:00 Teaser - Don’t Do it for the Daiquiris

00:27 Intro and Meet Dr. Thiago Gil: Anesthesiologist from Brazil

01:13 Discovering Ketamine's Antidepressant Properties

01:41 Transition to Ketamine Therapy

05:31 Learning from International Experts

10:12 Challenges and Realizations

10:39 The Brazilian Healthcare System

13:24 Growth of Ketamine Clinics in Brazil

16:54 The Shift to Esketamine

20:30 Clinical Practice Differences

23:26 Quality of Life Through Ketamine

23:58 Ketamine vs. Traditional Operating Room

25:29 Respecting Patients on Their Worst Days

26:09 Exploring Alternative Treatments

29:34 The Power of Dreams in Healing

33:23 Advice for Aspiring Ketamine Clinic Owners

36:12 Balancing Work and Personal Life

39:28 Fun and Personal Insights

46:48 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Thanks for listening

Connect with Dr. Gil:

Dr. Gil's Instagram

Dr. Gil’s Clinic website

Dr. Gil's LinkedIn

Check out Dr. Gil’s article discussed in the episode:

Efficacy of intravenous esketamine in reducing suicidal ideation and major depressive symptoms: A real-world evidence study

✅ Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

In this episode of the Ketamine StartUp Podcast, hosts Kim and Sam delve into the essential concepts of set, setting, and integration within the realm of ketamine therapy. 

Recorded during a live mastermind session with their course students, this discussion sheds light on the profound impact these elements have on the therapeutic environment and patient outcomes. 

Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the field, you’ll gain valuable insights into optimizing patient care and enhancing their transformation.

Episode 20 Show Notes:

00:00 Episode Teaser - Setting the “GPS”

00:26 Introduction

01:23 Understanding Set and Setting in Ketamine Therapy

03:09 Preparing Patients for Ketamine Infusion

07:44 Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment

11:07 Integration: The Homework After Ketamine Treatment

17:51 The Four-Step Integration Process

21:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Thanks for listening

✅ Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

In this episode of the Ketamine Startup Podcast, we collaborate with Dr. Carl Bonnett, the founder of Klarisana and prior podcast guest, to explore the often misunderstood concept of ego death through the lens of Matthew Perry's experiences with ketamine therapy. 

The conversation also covers topics like the efficacy of ketamine in treating mental health conditions, near-death experiences induced by ketamine, and the crucial role of preparation and integration in ketamine therapy.

Listen for a nuanced discussion that challenges preconceptions and sheds light on the therapeutic potential of ketamine when used responsibly. 

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The Role of Media and Culture: How celebrity experiences can influence public interest and stigma surrounding psychedelic therapies.

• Safety and Ethics in Ketamine Therapy: The importance of setting and professional oversight in ketamine treatments.

• Personal Stories and Case Studies: Both Dr. Bonnett and Sam share anecdotes from their respective clinical practices, highlighting transformative experiences and common misconceptions.

Episode 19 show notes:

00:00 Episode Teaser - Ketamine & Near-Death Experiences

00:23 Introduction

00:31 Special Collaboration with Dr. Carl Bonnet

01:52 Discussion on Matthew Perry and Ego Death

02:36 Therapeutic Use of Ego Disruption

05:39 Patient Experiences and Integration

08:07 Safety and Responsible Use of Ketamine

12:36 Education and Public Perception

19:36 Concluding Thoughts and Final Remarks

21:10 Additional Insights on Near-Death Experiences With Sam

Thanks for listening - make sure to check out Dr. Bonnett’s YouTube Channel

Study mentioned in episode: Neurochemical models of near-death experiences: A large-scale study based on the semantic similarity of written reports. Martial C, et al. 

Learn more about the types of ketamine experiences:  The 4 Types of Non-Ordinary Experiences Your Ketamine Patients Can Have

Connect with Dr. Bonnett at:

Instagram: docbonnett_psychedelic

LinkedIn: /carlbonnett

YouTube: @docbonnett

⭐️ Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist

In this quick episode of the Ketamine Startup Podcast, Sam shares some updates in the psychedelic world, in particular the recent FDA decision on MDMA therapy and the developments in the investigation into Matthew Perry’s death. 

This episode covers the complexities of operating a ketamine clinic amidst recent controversies affecting the public perception of psychedelic therapies. Sam finishes the discussion, with the challenges and responsibilities of providing ketamine treatments responsibly and ethically in today's healthcare environment.

What You’ll Learn In This Episode:

• Public Perception and Media Impact: How recent news events shape public perception of ketamine and what clinics can do to educate and reassure their communities.

• Understanding Ketamine's Dual Nature: Learn about the therapeutic potential and risks associated with ketamine, emphasizing the importance of controlled and knowledgeable application in clinical settings.

• Opportunities and Alternatives: Discover what actions you can take and explore alternative treatments like the stellate ganglion block (SGB), and their role in treating PTSD and other conditions.

Episode 18 show notes:

00:00 Episode Teaser - Ketamine Can Be UnSafe 

00:58 FDA's Decision on MDMA Therapy

03:50 Checklist for Starting a Ketamine Clinic

04:43 Matthew Perry's Case Updates and Ketamine Safety

06:33 Responsible Ketamine Administration

10:28 MDMA Rejection and Alternative Treatments - Stellate Ganglion Blocks

13:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Thanks for listening

Learn more about stellate ganglion blocks in episode 11 with Dr. Sara Herman

✅ Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist

In this episode of the Ketamine Startup Podcast, Sam sits down with Dr. James Leathem, co-founder of Advanced Wellness and Pain in Arizona. Dr. Leathem shares his unforeseen path into medicine and psychedelic experiences that shaped his career from anesthesiology to entrepreneurship. 

The conversation explores the intricacies of ketamine therapy  and the challenges of operating a ketamine clinic, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic Dr. Leathem imparts his wisdom on the essentials of mindset, gratitude, authenticity, and community-building in healthcare. 

He also shares insights into the potential of MDMA therapy, the significance of creating meaningful experiences for patients, and concludes with a display of his hidden talent in freestyle rap.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Pathways in Psychedelic Medicine: Insights into how traditional paths in medicine can pivot towards innovative fields like psychedelic therapy, particularly ketamine treatment, to enhance mental health care.

• Entrepreneurship in Healthcare: Discover the real-world challenges and rewards of launching and managing a ketamine clinic, including navigating uncertainties and leveraging personal experiences to shape business practices.

• Holistic Patient Care: Learn about the importance of integrating personal growth, mindset, and patient-centric approaches in creating effective and empathetic healthcare environments.

Episode 17 show notes:

00:00 Episode Teaser - What’s Your Motivation?

00:28 Introduction to the Podcast

01:09 Dr. James Leathem's Medical Journey

01:19 The Impact and Challenges of Ketamine Clinics

01:48 Personal Stories and Serendipity

02:34 Facing Fear and Embracing Courage

02:47 The Philosophy of Ketamine Treatment

03:32 From Anesthesiology to Ketamine Therapy

07:59 The Birth of Advanced Wellness and Pain

16:17 Creating a Unique Ketamine Experience

26:51 Self-Care and Balancing Life

30:00 Burnout in Healthcare and the Importance of Self-Care

31:02 Daily Practices for Mental Well-being

31:15 The Role of Community and Connection

31:21 Foundations of Self-Actualization

33:43 The Three Archetypes in Business

34:44 Embracing Leadership and Personal Growth

37:32 The Future of Psychedelic Medicine & MDMA

44:05 Controversies and Safety in Ketamine Use

47:57 Advice for Aspiring Ketamine Clinic Owners

53:07 Fun Questions and Personal Insights

57:33 Freestyling Rap Time!

58:43 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Thanks for listening

Connect with Dr. Leathem  at:

Advance Wellness and Pain Clinic Website 

Advance Wellness and Pain Instagram

Advance Wellness and Pain Facebook

Advance Wellness and Pain Youtube

Advance Wellness and Pain Tiktok

Dr. Leathem’s LinkedIn

✅Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.