Best Cannabis Policy Discussions Podcasts (2025)

1
Trump, Texas SB3 & the Rescheduling Timeline: Jim Higdon on What Comes Next 48:46

22h ago48:46

48:46

Prohibition is dead — and Texas just proved it. The recent SB3 vote signaled the start of something much bigger. While hemp and cannabis operate in very different styles, both are ultimately pushing toward the same goal: a sensible framework for a one-plant solution. The how? I’ll leave that to people way smarter than me. But the genie is NOT going…

1
Ep. 11: Cannabis Operator Series | Fireside Chat with Beatrice Carranza of Bachaz Mexican Gummies 48:12

2d ago48:12

48:12

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope Operator Series', host Jenny Germano sits down with Beatrice Carranza, Founder of Bachaz Mexican Gummies to discuss her journey into the cannabis industry. With a background in social work and hospitality, Beatrice talks about her motivation to create the first bilingual labeled edible product in Colorado, t…

1
How are states taking up key health care issues? Part II 34:06

5d ago34:06

34:06

AMA President Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, with this panel of AMA Advocacy Resource Center attorneys continues their conversation on how the AMA is working with national, state and specialty medical societies to address these key legislative priorities. How are the key issues of prior authorization, scope of practice, and physician wellness playing out? Wh…

1
The Hidden Weakness in Most Cannabis Operations — What We Heard at Benzinga 43:41

7d ago43:41

43:41

The cannabis shakeout isn’t coming. It’s already here. Operators are bleeding, investors are disappearing, and the old playbook is falling apart. After Benzinga, one thing’s clear: the winners will be the ones who specialize, control every cost, and have visibility into every part of their business in real time. What happens when you pull back the …

1
Ep. 10: Don’t Get Burned Out: The Real Talk on Cannabis Compliance 50:23

10d ago50:23

50:23

🎙In this special 10th episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano explores the critical issue of burnout among cannabis operators. She shares insights from her extensive experience in the cannabis industry, offers a detailed list of ten reasons why cannabis operators get burned out, and provides practical strategies to prevent and manage …

1
Justin Swanson and Federal Efforts to Ban Hemp 15:52

12d ago15:52

15:52

Jonathan Miller interviews Justin Swanson, President of the Midwest Hemp Council, about legislation being considered by the House Appropriations Committee that could ban most consumable hemp products. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered…

1
How are states taking up key health care issues? Part I 24:56

12d ago24:56

24:56

Months into the 2025 state legislative sessions, how are the key issues of prior authorization, scope of practice, and physician wellness playing out? What themes are emerging and how are they different than those of previous years? Led by AMA President Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, this panel of AMA Advocacy Resource Center attorneys talks about how the AM…

1
Storytelling Is the Future of Cannabis IR ft Jesse Redmond 54:47

15d ago54:47

54:47

What if the most powerful investor pitch wasn’t a deck or a breakdown of earnings—but a story? Now, the idea of seeds in the ground to thriving plants is a tangible experience—one that finally captures the real narrative. Because in cannabis, the financials don’t always tell the full story. This week, we sit down with Jesse Redmond, Head of Investo…

1
Ep. 9: Security Strategies | Protecting Your Cannabis Business from Application to Operation 42:02

17d ago42:02

42:02

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano dives into the critical security strategies for cannabis businesses with guest Tony Gallo, a seasoned expert from Sapphire Risk Advisory Group. Tony shares his extensive experience in the cannabis industry, highlighting the importance of robust security measures during both the licensing…

1
Fix the Process: Real Cannabis Manufacturing Tools & Optimization Techniques ft.: Murphy Murri 56:48

23d ago56:48

56:48

Most cannabis operators are reactive—drowning in checklists, flooded with data, and still missing the point. Compliance gets all the attention, while real operational signals—like handling variability and shifting process conditions—lead to execution gaps and reactive decision-making. Extraction process optimization is tricky, but when the actual r…

1
Ep. 8: Breaking Through the Challenges of Banking for Cannabis Regulated Businesses 52:27

24d ago52:27

52:27

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano discusses the nuances of banking for Cannabis Regulated Businesses (CRBs) with Erin O'Donnell and Michael Beird from the Association for Cannabis Banking. This episode explores the history, challenges, and future of cannabis banking. Learn about federal restrictions, compliance requireme…

1
Frank Santos and What's Next for Hemp in Texas 16:56

26d ago16:56

16:56

Jonathan Miller interviews Austin, Texas lobbyist Frank Santos, about the ever-changing state of play for hemp policy in Texas. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered in the episode: What is Senate Bill 3 and how did it pass the legislatur…

1
Brett Puffenbarger: The Future of Cannabis Will Look Like This… and Yes, It Will Shock You 54:49

30d ago54:49

54:49

What if we told you the future of cannabis looks less like dispensaries... and more like the milk aisle? Everyone’s chasing growth, market share, and the next hot product — but few are asking the deeper question: What will the cannabis industry actually become? While cannabis is certainly disruptive, its future likely follows a few predictable path…

1
Ep. 7: An Inside Look at Cannabis Policy | What Operators Need to Know 56:09

1M ago56:09

56:09

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope, host Jenny Germano discusses cannabis policy and operations with guest Jordan Wellington from Strategies 64. The conversation delves into Jordan's extensive background in cannabis legislation and regulation. He shares his journey from New Jersey to Colorado, where he played a pivotal role in implementing Am…

1
No Exits, No Capital, No Bullsh*t: Seth Yakatan on Cannabis Reality 45:37

1M ago45:37

45:37

There’s no exits. There’s no cash. There’s no buyers. So what do you do? Batten down the hatches. Crush your market. Squeeze out the little guys who can’t compete — and wait. This week, Seth Yakatan returns to discuss the following: • How he’s seeing the board • Why cannabis can’t hit reset like other industries • What operators need to do right no…

1
Ep. 6: Licensing and Launching Cannabis Cultivation Facilities in Emerging Markets 58:22

1M ago58:22

58:22

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano dives into the complexities of licensing and launching cannabis cultivation facilities in emerging markets. Joined by industry veterans Stuart Ware and Matt Best from Joywave Consulting, share their extensive backgrounds in the cannabis industry and offer an integral approach into common…

1
Addressing the maternal health crisis, Part II 23:03

1M ago23:03

23:03

Join this continued discussion on how to the AMA is working to address maternal mortality in the U.S.. The conversation is led by Dr. Willie Underwood III, Urologist and immediate past chair of the AMA board of trustees. Panelists include experts Maryanne C. Bombaugh, MD, MBA, MSc, member of the AMA Council on Legislation, Michael Rakotz, MD, vice …

1
130. Psychedelics and Women's Health with Dr Grace Blest-Hopley 1:01:35

1M ago1:01:35

1:01:35

Join us in the latest episode of the Drug Science Podcast, where we talk with Dr. Grace Blest-Hopley, Director of Research for Heroic Hearts Project UK, Chief Scientific Officer of NW PharmaTech, and founder and CEO of Hystelica. In the episode, she explore where psychedelic studies have largely ignored women’s physiology, particularly in failing t…

1
Anthony Newby and Justice in Cannabis and Hemp 22:33

1M ago22:33

22:33

Jonathan Miller interviews Anthony Newby, CEO of Cultivated CBD, about issues of justice and equality in the hemp and cannabis industries. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered in the episode: Why have the hemp and cannabis industries bee…

1
Where’s the Cash? Visibility, Inventory & Profitable Growth with Tyler Nielsen 54:40

1M ago54:40

54:40

"Cash strapped" might be the most heard phrase in the cannabis industry right now. So… where’s the cash? Without disciplined forecasting and visibility into true costs, growth is meaningless. Most companies aren’t failing from bad ideas — they’re failing in execution. That’s where cash leaks into missed forecasts, bloated inventory, and lost opport…

1
Ep. 5: Building a Strong Team in the Cannabis Industry | Overcoming the Common Challenges 46:51

1M ago46:51

46:51

Join host Jenny Germano on 'Under the Microscope' as she delves into the intricacies of building a successful team in the regulated cannabis market. Drawing from her extensive experience since 2009 in vertically integrated cannabis operations and a decade of consulting, Jenny discusses key factors behind the success and failures of cannabis busines…

1
Addressing the maternal health crisis, Part I 29:32

2M ago29:32

29:32

With the U.S. having the highest maternal mortality and morbidity rates among developed countries, the AMA continues to sound the alarm to policymakers that a multi-faceted approach is needed, one which includes addressing the leading causes of preventable maternal deaths and investing in the physician workforce to improve access to maternity care.…

1
Why the Industry’s Premier Brands Choose The Flowery — and What’s Coming Next in New York & Florida ft. Ilya Shmidt 45:00

2M ago45:00

45:00

Florida and New York are massive markets — but they’re still early. Everyone’s fighting for attention, trust, and long-term positioning. So how did The Flowery rise to the top and become the go-to partner for the industry’s premier brands? 710 Labs. Wizard Trees. Preferred Gardens. Doja Pak the list goes on. These brands are some of the most sought…

1
Ep. 4: Cannabis Operator Series | Fireside Chat with Dan Koogler of TS Labs 46:50

2M ago46:50

46:50

In this episode of Under the Microscope, host Jenny Germano launches the Podcasts Cannabis Operator Series, and fireside chat with Dan Koogler from TS Labs. They discuss Dan's journey from the military to the cannabis industry, detailing his experiences with navigating cannabis operations and ownership. Dan shares insights into building a successfu…

1
129. Decolonising Plant Medicine with ICEERS 1:00:28

2M ago1:00:28

1:00:28

In this latest episode of the Drug Science Podcast, we talk with Natalia Rebollo and Jesús Alonso Olamendi of the International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service (ICEERS). They discuss the lasting legacy of colonialism in the psychedelic culture of indigenous communities, stressing the need for the sacredness of these subst…

1
Brandon Pollock and the Transition from Marijuana to Hemp 14:06

2M ago14:06

14:06

Jonathan Miller interviews Brandon Pollock, CEO of Theory Wellness, about how more marijuana companies are getting into the business of hemp. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered in the episode: How are marijuana companies navigating the…

1
Big Tobacco Is Moving on Cannabis, the Global Strategy Is Unfolding, and Deepak Anand Reveals Where’s Next 48:42

2M ago48:42

48:42

Big Tobacco knows cigarettes are dead. They’re sitting on cash, looking for growth — and cannabis is the obvious move. They’re no longer silently watching from the sidelines. They’re investing, expanding — some through public acquisitions, others through quieter plays. But one thing is clear: it’s no secret anymore. Big Tobacco is here, leveraging …

1
Ep. 3: Navigating the Complex Insurance Landscape for Cannabis Operators 44:04

2M ago44:04

44:04

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope', host Jenny Germano, a seasoned cannabis consultant, welcomes Alex Hearding from Red Wolf Risk to discuss the intricacies of insurance in the cannabis industry. With over a decade of experience in cannabis operations and insurance risk management, Alex provides an in-depth look at various insurance types, t…

1
Secrets Behind World-Class Extraction: How 1% Add Millions ft. Micah Anderson 59:42

2M ago59:42

59:42

Specialization is coming — and surviving will mean doing one thing better than anyone else. But that’s only the beginning. Getting there takes a relentless growth mindset: an obsession with stacking small operational wins — data, tech, genetics, process — to create massive separation over time. Extraction isn’t simple. And in a world of margin comp…

1
Ep. 2: How to Properly Structure a Regulated Cannabis Business | A Legal Roadmap 55:54

2M ago55:54

55:54

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano welcomes Rachael Ardanuy Esq., a cannabis attorney with over a decade of experience in the industry. Together, they discuss how to properly structure a regulated cannabis business, covering key topics such as the importance of legal contracts, real estate considerations, intel…

1
128. Former Doctor, Former Prisoner with Dr Tim Kerr 50:03

2M ago50:03

50:03

Tune in to the latest episode of the drug science podcast where David Nutt meets with Tim Kerr, a doctoral research student in Psychiatry at King’s College London. Tim discusses his journey from slowly falling into drug addiction and dealing whilst studying for his medical degree eventually leading to arrest and imprisonment. Tim shares how he used…

1
Chris Fontes and the US Hemp Authority Adult Certification Program 15:29

2M ago15:29

15:29

Jonathan Miller interviews Chris Fontes, President of the US Hemp Authority about that organization's ongoing adult product certification program. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered in the episode: Why did the US Hemp Authority decide …

1
If You’re Chasing Invoices in Cannabis, Listen to This ft. Brett Gelfand 50:18

2M ago50:18

50:18

You produced the product. They said they needed terms — “as soon as it sells, we’ll pay.” But the days kept going by… and nothing came in. In cannabis, collections are brutally difficult. With limited banking and tight cash flow, cash is king. So how do you know who’s trustworthy? Who’s a repeat offender? And where do you even go to collect? Sadly,…

1
Ep. 1: Getting Ready to Get Ready | Becoming an Operator in the Cannabis Industry 40:12

2M ago40:12

40:12

Ep. 1: Getting Ready to Get Ready | Becoming an Operator in the Cannabis Industry In the premiere episode of Under the Microscope Podcast, host Jenny Germano explores the initial steps prospective cannabis operators need to take to launch a successful business. Drawing from over a decade of experience in the cannabis industry, Jenny discusses essen…

1
Clifford Starke and Investing in the Hemp Industry 16:31

2M ago16:31

16:31

Jonathan Miller interviews Clifford Starke, Chair of Hampstead Private Capital and CEO of Flora Growth, about the economic climate for investing in the hemp and cannabis industries. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered in the episode: Ho…

1
How Ayr Wellness Is Resizing for Reality — What Operational Efficiency Really Means ft. George DeNardo 44:30

3M ago44:30

44:30

It’s not about planting flags anymore. It’s about profitability. As the cannabis industry shifts from rapid growth at all costs to operational precision, hard decisions are being made. Which assets are sized properly? Where can we build a well-rounded, potentially profitable business given the realities of today’s market? And how do we make the rig…

1
127. Psychedelic Therapy in the UK with Dr Laurie Higbed and Dr Owain Winfield 45:01

3M ago45:01

45:01

Join us in the latest episode of the Drug Science Podcast where David Nutt meets with Psychedelic psychotherapy experts Laurie Higbed and Owain Winfield to dive into how to use psychedelics in psychotherapy. In this episode, they discuss the different techniques used with different psychedelics for different conditions to optimise this type of ther…

1
Why Cannabis Companies Must Face Reality, Make Hard Choices, and Follow the Data ft. AnnaRae Grabstein 48:29

3M ago48:29

48:29

While it feels like progress isn’t happening — and that may be true at the federal level — inside the industry, it’s a completely different story. The financial model you built, the regulatory category you operate in, the market dynamics, the consumer behavior — every one of those variables is in motion. Constantly evolving. And new competitors are…

1
U.S. Hemp Roundtable President Jena Murray and the Future of Hemp Policy 16:27

3M ago16:27

16:27

Jonathan Miller interviews Jena Murray, the newly elected President of the US Hemp Roundtable, about policy challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. hemp industry. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered in the episode: Who is Jena Murr…

1
How Leafwell is Disrupting Healthcare: The Data Doctors Can’t Ignore ft. Emily Fisher & Dr June Chin 45:52

3M ago45:52

45:52

Can cannabis be the key to lowering healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes? Impossible, right? Think again. Leafwell has analyzed millions of data points and uncovered staggering, undeniable results—cannabis patients experience fewer ER visits, reduced prescription drug use, and better health outcomes compared to non-users. These findings …

1
126. The body keeps the score with Dr Bessel van der Kolk 41:54

3M ago41:54

41:54

In this episode, we meet with Bessel van Der kolk, a trauma based psychiatrist, author, researcher and educator. Since the 1970s his research has been in the area of post-traumatic stress and he is the author of four books including best seller “the body keeps score”. Within this episode, he dives into what trauma is and different research into the…

1
The Hard Thing About Hard Things: A Melody of Grit & Fortitude ft. Christina Betancourt Johnson 51:34

3M ago51:34

51:34

“It’s this crazy melody of things constantly happening, and you need an incredible degree of grit and fortitude. Even the best-prepared individuals with meticulous plans have to throw them up in the air like confetti. It’s an intangible feeling—until you get into it, you really don’t know.” This quote from Christina Betancourt Johnson perfectly cap…

1
Craig Katz and Hemp Policy in Illinois & Missouri 17:24

3M ago17:24

17:24

Jonathan Miller interviews Craig Katz, Government Relations Manager of CBD Kratom, about policy challenges and opportunities facing the hemp industry in Illinois and Missouri. If you have questions about the episode or ideas for Hemp related topics, email us at [email protected]. Hemp Industry questions covered in the episode: What is …

1
Premium Should Mean Organic: How Jetty Extracts is Leading the Clean Cannabis Movement ft. Ron Gershoni 41:45

4M ago41:45

41:45

Want to know what a company really values? Look at where they spend their money. In cannabis, where cash is a rare commodity, Jetty Extracts is choosing to invest in: Thousands of dollars each month in additional third-party testing that isn’t required OCal-certified cannabis, the cleanest on the market Most companies can’t even consider this level…

1
125. The 5-HT hypothesis of depression with Prof Philip Cowen and Dr Sameer Jauhar 33:19

4M ago33:19

33:19

In this episode of the Drug Science Podcast, David Nutt meets with psychopharmacologist Phil Cowen and Psychiatrist Sameer Jauhar to discuss the neuroscience behind and treatments for depression. Within the episode they touch on various neurotransmitters involved in depression as well as research studies into each of their impact, stigma around ant…

1
We Don’t Want Legalization—We Want Decriminalization ft. Luna Stower 45:59

4M ago45:59

45:59

Cannabis started as a movement, not just a business. But as legalization expanded, the industry found itself caught between profit and purpose, struggling under massive overregulation and taxation. So how do we get back on track? For over 11 years, Luna Stower has been on the front lines—fighting for safe access, patient rights, and the end of proh…

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Cannabis Policy Discussions Podcasts

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