By Alexandra Marie Charlotte Stahl
When I first sat down with Tomy for my Spotify podcast “One Step Ahead,” it was clear that his story was unlike any I’d encountered. Tomy is not just an entrepreneur—he’s a survivor, a dreamer, and a relentless advocate for the healing potential of mushrooms. His startup, Mushi Lab, is a mission stemming from personal trauma to a mission of empowerment and cognitive improvement.
A Childhood Marked by Chaos and Courage
Tomy’s story begins in Caracas, Venezuela, a city known for its vibrancy but also its instability. As a 13-year-old, Tomy experienced a life-altering event that would shape his path forever. On a calm Sunday leaving the pharmacy with his father, their car was ambushed by armed men attempting to kidnap Tomy. In the chaos, his father fought back, sustaining severe injuries in the process.
“It was like time froze,” Tomy recalled. “I remember the sound of gunshots, the panic, and the overwhelming realization that life could change—or end—in a matter of seconds.”
Though Tomy and his father managed to escape, the psychological scars lingered long after the physical wounds healed. His father spent months recovering, and the family faced an unbearable truth: staying in Venezuela was no longer an option. Fearing for their safety, they left behind their home, friends, and everything familiar, seeking refuge first in neighbouring countries before ultimately settling in Madrid, Spain.
“We left because we had to,” Tomy said. “My parents made the choice to prioritize our safety, even though it meant starting over completely. That decision saved us, but the trauma stayed with me.”
The Weight of Trauma
Moving to Madrid brought physical security, but the emotional aftermath of the kidnapping haunted Tomy for years. He struggled with anxiety, hypervigilance, and an overwhelming sense of vulnerability. “For the longest time, I felt like I was living in survival mode,” he shared.
Despite the challenges, Tomy channeled his pain into ambition. He studied in the US, determined to build a life that wasn’t defined by fear. Yet beneath the surface, unresolved trauma simmered, manifesting in bouts of depression and a sense of detachment from the world around him.
“It wasn’t something you could outrun,” Tomy said. “No matter how much I tried to distract myself, the memories and emotions would catch up.”
Discovering Mushrooms as a Path to Healing
Tomy’s turning point came during a supervised psilocybin therapy session—a transformative experience that would redefine his understanding of himself and his past. Under the guidance of a trained therapist, he confronted the memories of his childhood trauma, not as a victim but as an observer seeking clarity and closure.
“It felt like peeling back layers of pain and seeing the core of who I really was,” Tomy explained. “For the first time, I could look at my past without being consumed by it.”
The experience left an indelible mark. It wasn’t just therapeutic—it was freeing. Intrigued by the potential of mushrooms, Tomy immersed himself in studying mycology, exploring both their psychedelic and functional varieties as well as visiting mushroom farms and labs worldwide for his expertise. He became fascinated by the ways mushrooms could enhance mental clarity, support physical health, and, most importantly, promote emotional healing.
The Birth of Mushi Lab
In 2024, Tomy turned his passion into purpose by founding Mushi Lab, a startup dedicated to producing organic, ethically sourced mushroom supplements. From cognitive enhancers like Lion’s Mane to adaptogens like Reishi, Mushi Lab’s products are meticulously crafted to combine ancient wisdom with modern science.
For Tomy, Mushi Lab is more than a business—it’s a platform for change. “Mushrooms gave me back my life,” he said. “And I want to help others experience that same transformation.”
What sets Mushi Lab apart is its focus on accessibility and credibility. Tomy demystifies mushrooms as he produces supplements that are well-researched and user-friendly. “This isn’t about jumping on a trend,” he said. “It’s about offering something real and impactful.”
The Science Behind the Vision
During our conversation, Tomy spoke passionately about the scientific research backing his work. Studies from institutions like Johns Hopkins and Imperial College London have shown the potential of psilocybin to treat conditions like PTSD and depression, while functional mushrooms have long been celebrated for their health benefits.
“They’ve been used for centuries, and now we’re finally starting to understand their full potential through science.”
Though Mushi Lab doesn’t deal in psychedelics, Tomy believes in the broader mission of destigmatizing mushrooms and exploring their many uses. “These aren’t just fungi—they’re tools for wellness, resilience, and connection,” he said.
Mushi Lab’s Products and Their Unique Benefits
Mushi Lab’s product line reflects a deep understanding of the diverse benefits of functional mushrooms, offering natural, effective solutions to improve overall wellness.
The first product, Reishi – Reistore, is designed to help the body relax, reduce inflammation, and prepare for restful sleep. Reishi mushrooms are rich in triterpenes, compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and stress-reducing properties. This supplement works by calming the body’s stress response, balancing immunity, and supporting relaxation, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their sleep quality and recovery.
The second product and best seller is Lion’s Mane – Mane Focus, which targets brain health and cognitive performance. This supplement scientifically enhances concentration, memory, mood, and digestion. Lion’s Mane is rich in hericenones and erinacins, compounds that stimulate nerve growth and promote neurogenesis. By supporting the brain-gut connection and boosting mental clarity, Mane Focus is ideal for those aiming to stay sharp and focused throughout their day.
Finally, Cordyceps–C–Boost is designed to increase energy, enhance physical performance, strengthen immunity, and support libido. Cordyceps mushrooms are rich in cordycepin, a compound that improves oxygen utilization and stamina. This makes C-Boost perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone seeking a natural energy boost to power through their busy schedules or workouts.
Each product embodies Mushi Lab’s mission to bridge ancient traditions with modern science, providing customers with natural, high-quality solutions for their health and wellness needs.
What Makes Mushrooms So Powerful?
Mushrooms are often referred to as nature’s “Swiss Army knife” due to their incredible versatility and wide range of benefits. For centuries, mushrooms have been celebrated in traditional medicine for supporting immunity, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being.
What makes mushrooms so powerful is their unique bioactive compounds, which work on multiple systems in the body. For example, beta-glucans found in mushrooms like Reishi and Turkey Tail help stabilize the immune system. Compounds like cordycepin in Cordyceps improve energy production at the cellular level by enhancing oxygen utilization. Similarly, the hericenones and erinacins in Lion’s Mane stimulate the production of nerve growth factors, which are essential for brain health and neuroprotection.
Unlike synthetic supplements, mushrooms offer a holistic approach to health, addressing not just symptoms but the underlying causes of imbalance. They work as adaptogens, helping the body adapt to stress, regulate hormones, and improve overall resilience. This natural synergy between their compounds makes mushrooms invaluable for promoting long-term wellness and vitality.
The Power of Teamwork
While Tomy’s expertise in Mycology forms the backbone of Mushi Lab, it’s his partnership with Álvaro that drives the company’s success. Álvaro, who brings a talent for innovative strategies and expansions, perfectly complements Tomy’s scientific knowledge.
This collaboration ensures that Mushi Lab not only produces high-quality, impactful products but also creates a meaningful connection with its community. Together, Tomy and Álvaro have built a brand that redefines what natural supplements can achieve, proving that the power of mushrooms—and the strength of partnership—can truly transform lives.
What’s next?
As our interview wrapped up, I asked Tomy what motivates him to keep pushing forward in an industry that’s still finding its footing. His answer was simple yet profound: “Because I know what it’s like to feel hopeless. And I know what it’s like to find hope again.”
Sitting across from him, I was struck by the depth of his journey—from a traumatic childhood in Venezuela to a life dedicated to healing and empowerment. Mushi Lab may be his creation, but it’s also a testament to his resilience, courage, and unwavering belief in the power of transformation.
Featured image courtesy of Mushilab.com
