Episode 123: Opening Access to Ibogaine - A Conversation with Bryan Hubbard, CEO of Americans for Ibogaine

In this episode, hosts David Sugg, Brynn Knox, and Daniel Anderson sit down with Bryan Hubbard, the inaugural CEO of Americans for Ibogaine, to explore his mission to expand education, access, and responsible pathways for ibogaine as a potential therapeutic option for brain injuries, substance use disorders, and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Bryan brings decades of leadership at the intersection of law, public policy, and community impact. He shares insights from:

• Leading the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission and advancing reforms across disability policy, child support enforcement, Medicaid systems, and judicial responses to mental health and substance use
• Building diverse coalitions and crafting policy solutions aimed at saving lives and improving systems
• His tenure with the American Ibogaine Initiative and the REID Foundation
• Earlier public service roles in the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, the Department of Income Support, and statewide commissions on mental health, mine safety, child support guidelines, and recovery-ready communities
• A personal arc that began in Virginia’s coalfields and a legal career that witnessed the early stages of the opioid crisis

We discuss what responsible ibogaine frameworks could look like in the United States, the role of public education and evidence generation, ethical considerations, and how advocates, clinicians, policymakers, and families can work together to widen safe, equitable access for people in need. Bryan also reflects on the research gaps, risk management, and the practical steps AFI is taking to move the conversation—and the science—forward.

 

Note: This conversation is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Ibogaine is not approved for medical use in many jurisdictions; risks and benefits should be evaluated with qualified professionals.

 

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This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.