The AM/DM podcast: Kratom comes to the state’s consciousness

By , Daily Memphian Published: April 15, 2026 6:27 AM CT

Earlier this month, Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke was arrested in Arkansas for trafficking an illegal substance. 

Clarke’s arrest was due, in part, to a natural botanical that originates from Southeast Asia and can either be a sedative or a stimulant, depending on the dosage. 

It’s been illegal in Arkansas since 2016, but it is still legal in Tennessee. For now. 


Brandon Clarke released from jail after alleged high-speed chase and arrest


Joining us today is state house reporter Noah McLane to tell us all about kratom: What it is, where you get it, what the Tennessee General Assembly is considering doing about it, and even how to say it. 

Listen in. 

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

 

Topics

AM/DM kratom
Mary Cashiola

Mary Cashiola

Mary Cashiola has been a Memphis journalist for nearly two decades, beginning her career covering city government and local neighborhoods at the Memphis Flyer before being hired by Memphis Mayor A C Wharton’s administration. 

Before joining The Daily Memphian, she was the managing editor of the Memphis Business Journal, which was named one of the top 10 Best Designed Newspapers in the world by the Society of News Design while she was there. 

She also has a background in advertising, with a focus on higher education and the hospitality industry. 


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