The Power Plant That Could Save the World | Annie Rouse | Hemp Entrepreneur & Environmental Economist

What if one plant could solve multiple global problems: environmental degradation, economic instability, and public health? Annie Rouse believes hemp can. Kara talks with Annie about the power and potential of hemp as an industrial crop, a wellness resource, and a tool for climate solutions. They get into how policy, stigma, and industry gatekeeping have slowed hemp's progress, and why Annie’s on a mission to change that. Annie is a Fulbright Scholar, economist, and investigative journalist who’s built a portfolio of businesses and advocacy projects under the Think Hempy Thoughts brand. This conversation covers everything from the war on drugs to sustainable fashion to the underestimated power of female entrepreneurs. Chapters: 00:00 How Annie first discovered hemp 01:25 What we get wrong about hemp and cannabis 03:10 Hemp’s potential to transform global supply chains 05:00 Getting a Fulbright to study hemp in Canada 07:30 Fighting industry stigma and misinformation 10:20 Think Hempy Thoughts and building hemp businesses 12:15 Why sustainable fashion needs hemp 14:40 Eco-feminism and the power of women entrepreneurs 16:15 How Annie juggles her portfolio of projects 18:00 Running a values-driven business 20:10 How to talk about hemp without getting shut down 22:25 The True Cost documentary and fast fashion's dark side 25:45 Supply chains, certifications, and conscious choices 28:30 Why policy change matters for entrepreneurs 30:15 Work-life balance and wellness as a founder 32:00 Building confidence in male-dominated industries 34:30 What powerful means to Annie right now The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices