The Cole Memo

In this episode, I provide a high-level overview and commentary on cannabis-related stories that caught my attention. Topics include the launch of the Cannabis Research Institute in Chicago, the Illinois dispensary regulations effective as of August 2024, and the recent statements from former President Donald Trump endorsing Florida's Amendment 3. View full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com...

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston sits down with Zack Huffman, a journalist with roots in cannabis reporting, to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of cannabis regulation. They explore the impact of the 2018 Farm Bill, the controversy over hemp-derived THC products, and how states like Michigan and Missouri are cracking down on product inversion. Cole also gives a sneak peek into...

In this insightful episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston is joined by Kelly Rippel, an advocate with deep ties to Kansas cannabis reform and industrial hemp policy. Kelly shares groundbreaking research on the long-standing connections between pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly and cannabis, including how corporate interests influenced cannabis prohibition in the Midwest. Watch video version...

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In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Adam, co-founder and CEO of Cantrip, to discuss the latest developments in California's evolving hemp beverage regulations. Adam's own product, Cantrip, made an unexpected appearance in a state press conference, and he shares his thoughts on the surprise and its implications for the hemp industry. They discuss California’s proposed restrictions, complia...

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Redman and Reese Xavier. The conversation covers key topics such as the hurdles in operationalizing craft grow licenses, the implications of federal and state regulations on the industry, and the ongoing debate around the regulation of hemp-derived intoxicants. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2024/09/06/e122/

In this live episode, Cole Preston hosts a spirited debate between Jason Beck and Michael Malcolm. The discussion dives into the evolving cannabis policies of both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the implications of cannabis rescheduling, and the broader impact of political decisions on the cannabis industry. With differing views, the conversation covers everything from past records to recent stat...

In this episode, I am joined by Jason Beck, the longest continuous cannabis retail operator in the United States. Jason shares his journey, starting from his beginnings in San Francisco in 2001 to establishing his presence in West Hollywood in 2004. He also discusses his current role with High at 9 News, a daily cannabis news show that covers six stories every weekday, providing a platform for a v...

In this episode, I sit down with Caleb Howard, CEO and founder of Flower Girl and the Illinois State Director for Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM). We dive deep into the challenges facing the hemp industry and the complex landscape of cannabis regulation in Illinois. Caleb shares his personal journey, the obstacles he's faced, and his ongoing efforts to advocate for equity and opportunity i...

In this episode of The Cole Memo, host Cole Preston sits down with fellow advocate and friend, Phillip. They spark up a candid conversation about Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's recent speech at the International Cannabis Bar Association, dissecting the claims of progress in Illinois' cannabis industry. Specifically, they discuss the stark realities behind the state's touted achievements, the unfu...

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In this episode, Cole sits down with Phillip, a fellow advocate, and the organizer of the Melt Market, a unique cannabis farmers market in Illinois. Together, they explore the challenges and rewards of organizing underground cannabis events, discuss the importance of community involvement, and reflect on the evolving cannabis landscape in the state. Tune in to learn how the Melt Market is pushing...

In this episode, I interview Illinois State Representative Dan Swanson at the 2024 Hemp Research Open House, co-hosted by the Illinois Hemp Growers Association and the University of Illinois. Recorded in the hemp fields of Urbana-Champaign, this conversation covers the latest legislative session, the ongoing debate between the hemp and cannabis industries, and the bipartisan efforts needed to addr...

In this episode, I sit down with Martha Bueno, an entrepreneur, former political candidate, and passionate advocate for freedom. Martha shares her unique journey from running for office in Miami and becoming the first political candidate to use OnlyFans as a platform to expose the dirty underbelly of politics. She dives deep into her involvement with the Free Ross Ulbricht movement, her battles wi...

In this live episode, I am joined by Martha Bueno and The Dank informer to discuss Florida's Amendment 3. During the episode, we also discuss hemp. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2024/08/13/e114/

In this special episode, Cole sits down with the organizer of the Melt Market, a unique cannabis farmers market that brings together vendors, growers, and cannabis enthusiasts from across Illinois and beyond. They discuss the origins of the Melt Market, the challenges of organizing such events, and the importance of community involvement and collaboration with local authorities. Watch the video ve...

In this episode, I am joined by Kyle Baker, founder of Clean Theory, to explore the complexities of cannabis cultivation and testing. We discuss third-party lab testing, quality control measures, state regulations, remediation processes, and health concerns. Kyle highlights differences between commercial and home growing and argues that Illinois' stringent regulations hinder high-quality cannabis...

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Regina Moore, a semi-retired pharmacist and mushroom foraging enthusiast. During the episode, we explore the world of Amanita muscaria mushrooms, discuss their uses, the recent surge in their popularity, and the recent headline stories about mushroom products. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on psychedelics, regulation, and drug policy reform! Watch video ve...

In this episode, I am joined by Bill Panagiotakopoulos. Bill is the founder and CEO of Safe Supply, a Canadian company that invests in the future of the legal drug trade. During this episode, we speak about the current state of drug policy and discuss what the future (legal) drug trade could look like. Watch video version and read full show notes at https://thecolememo.com/2024/07/19/e110/

In this episode, I speak to Abby Lutz - a Death Doula. We discuss human composting, how green burials are revolutionizing the funeral industry, and of course: the topic of death itself. Abby makes the case that these practices are changing the way we think about death and the environment. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2024/07/12/e109/

In this episode, I discuss a recent study by a Black advocacy group that described legalization in Illinois as 'botched.' During the episode, I play statements from an advisor behind the study and I play the state's response to the study. I close the episode with national psychedelic trends and I share that there's been a reported increase in possession arrests in Wisconsin. Watch video version an...

In this episode, I have a conversation with Emma Savage about her journey in the sex industry. Emma recounts her progression from starting as a young stripper to becoming a licensed legal prostitute in Nevada, and eventually transitioning to independent work. Throughout our discussion, Emma candidly shares both the highs and lows of her experience in sex work, including her reasons for leaving Nev...

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I sit down with Caesar, a former CNN producer turned advocate for plant medicine and microdosing. Caesar shares his journey from corporate life to becoming a thought leader for those over 50 exploring microdosing. Tune in to learn about his new free ebook, courses, and his mission to change lives through responsible psychedelic use. Watch video version and read fu...

In this episode, I am joined by my friend Phil. During the episode, we chat about a recent board meeting that we attended & I provide clarity on some questions that have recently appeared online. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2024/06/30/e105/