PODCAST · science
BIOACTIVE
by Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D.
Dr. Riley Kirk is a cannabis research scientist and educator. She obtained her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, specializing in natural product chemistry, studying the traditional and contemporary uses of hundreds of medicinal plants. She is currently an assistant associate professor at the University of Rhode Island, has worked as an immunology scientist in the biotech industry, and works in the cannabis industry studying the chemical complexity of cannabis smoke. Riley is also the co-founder of the cannabis research and education non-profit organization called the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP). Through NAP and on her podcast, Riley uses science as advocacy to research and communicate findings that highlight the unique power of natural products. The goal of Riley’s work is to unite people in the Cannabis industry, academia, and consumers to further the reach of Cannabis education and reduce harm. Riley is passionate about making Cannabis science accessible thr
Episodes
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The Science of Terpenes with Dr. Shawna Vreeke
What are cannabis terpenes, how do they influence aroma and consumer experiences, and what do we know about their safety? On this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Dr. Shawna Vreeke, PhD, DABT, Head of Toxicology at True Terpenes, to explore the science of cannabis...
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Cannabis and Real World Data with Dr. Miyabe Shields
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Dr. Miyabe Shields for a deep dive into cannabis real-world data, cannabis consumption patterns, dosing, neurodivergent cannabis use, and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). As co-founders of the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), Riley and Miyabe discuss the newly...
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Unlocking Plant Potential: The Science of Carbon and Natural Fertilizers with Nik Nikolayev
What if carbon is one of the most overlooked inputs in plant nutrition? In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Nik Nikolayev, CEO of Rooted Leaf Agritech, to explore the science of carbon-based fertilizers, plant nutrition, biostimulants, organic acids, and the...
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Cannabis and Driving with Dr. Denise Valenti
Dr. Riley Kirk has Dr. Denise Valenti on the podcast to discuss cannabis and driving, cannabis impairment, THC testing, and the challenges of determining whether someone is actually too impaired to drive. They explore why THC levels in the body do not necessarily correspond to impairment and how...
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The Gut-Brain Axis with Dr. Rick Pescatore
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Dr. Rick Pescatore, board-certified emergency physician, Editor-in-Chief of Emergency Medicine News, and founder of BellyMD, for a fascinating deep dive into the gut-brain connection and what it means for cannabis users and...
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What went down at the Cannabis Rescheduling Hearing with Max Jackson
What actually happened inside the DEA’s cannabis rescheduling hearing? In this timely episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Max Jackson, former commercial cannabis cultivator and founder of Cannabis Wise Guys, to unpack what he witnessed firsthand at the DEA hearing on...
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Should THC Be a Range Instead of One Number? with guest Ben Cleary
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with cannabis research scientist Ben Cleary to unpack groundbreaking research published in Scientific Reports examining THC variability in cannabis flower and what it means for consumers, cultivators, laboratories, and regulators....
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Stop the Seed Ban! with Jim Riddle
Cannabis seed laws are changing, and the consequences could reshape home grow, hemp, cannabis breeding, and the future of plant genetics in the United States. In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with longtime organic farmer, seed breeder, and policy advocate Jim...
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A Deep Dive into Tissue Culture with Nathan Johnson
Cannabis tissue culture, plant genetics, micropropagation, and pathogen testing are transforming modern cultivation. In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Dr. Nathan Johnson, President & CEO of Verne Bio, for a fascinating deep dive into one of the most…
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Two Cannabis Scientists get Nerdy: Genetics & Plant Chemistry
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Dr. Anna Schwabe to the Bioactive Podcast for a deep dive into cannabis genetics, cultivar identity, plant chemistry, and the challenges of making sense of cannabis in a rapidly evolving industry. As two cannabis scientists get thoroughly nerdy, they explore the…
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Unlocking Soil Secrets (& Science) with Brandon Rust
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Brandon Rust, founder and CEO of FulCrop Sciences, for a fascinating conversation about the hidden biological systems that drive plant health and productivity. Brandon shares insights from years of cultivation experience,...
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Cannabis Industry Insights: Mycotoxins, Testing, and Biohacking with Kyle Boyar
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Kyle Boyar to the Bioactive Podcast for an in-depth conversation on cannabis testing, mycotoxins, analytical chemistry, biohacking, and the evolving cannabis industry. Drawing from over a decade of experience in cannabis science, Kyle shares insights from his work across...
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A Budtender’s Guide to Cannabis with Tessa Dattillo
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Tessa Dattilo to the Bioactive Podcast to break down what it really means to be a budtender and how cannabis education translates to real-world consumer experiences. With nearly a decade in the cannabis industry, Tessa shares insights from the frontlines—helping patients…
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Researching and Growing Cannabis with Dr. Emily Gogol
On this episode, Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Dr. Emily Gogol to the Bioactive Podcast to discuss the science, cultivation, and accessibility of cannabis from both a research and real-world growing perspective. Drawing from her background in biomedical science and her work leading Infinite Tree and…
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New Research on Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) with Dr. Codi Peterson and Megan Mbengue
On this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Dr. Codi Peterson and Megan Mbengue to discuss their newly published paper on Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). Drawing from their recently published research and clinical experience, they explore what CHS is, how it...
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Cannabis and Traumatic Brain Injuries with guest Nikki Lawley
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Nikki Lawley to the podcast to discuss the transformative role of medical cannabis in managing traumatic brain injury (TBI), sharing her powerful personal journey alongside practical insights into cannabis as medicine. They cover topics such as the immediate and long-term...
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Beyond Caffeine: The Hidden Chemistry of Coffee with Dr. Steven Helschien (Dr. Coffee)
There are all sorts of misconceptions about coffee — that it dehydrates you, that it’s bad for your heart, or that caffeine is the only thing happening in the cup. Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes coffee scientist Dr. Steven Helschien, widely known as “Dr. Coffee,” for a fascinating conversation exploring...
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How Fast-Acting Products Actually Work with Harold Han, PhD
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Dr. Harold Han, Chief Science Officer and Co-Founder of Vertosa to explore the fascinating world of the science powering modern cannabis beverages and infused products. Known in the industry as “The Happy Chemist,” Dr. Han explains how emulsion technology solves the…
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Schedule 3, Hemp Bans, and Cannabis Law with Thomas Howard
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes cannabis attorney and legalization advocate Tom Howard to unpack the complexities of cannabis law and regulation in the United States. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience, Tom shares how he helps clients navigate licensing...
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The Untapped World of Acidic Cannabinoids with Dr. Bid
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Hemant Bid joins Dr. Riley Kirk discussing the often-overlooked world of acidic cannabinoids aka Raw or Unactivated cannabinoids, such as CBGA, THCA, and CBDA. He shares his extensive background in cannabis research and education, emphasizing the...
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Cannabis Question and Answer Sesh!
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk shares a 2025 year-in-review and announces exciting news about teaching a cannabis chemistry and pharmacology course at Vermont State University next Spring. Riley then dives into a Q&A packed with highly requested cannabis education…
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Indoor Grow Tips, Mastering the Dry and Cure and Community Q&A with Jordan River from Growcast
Dr. Riley Kirk has Jordan River on the podcast to discuss the intricacies of indoor cannabis cultivation, sharing personal experiences and insights on various aspects of growing. They cover topics such as the challenges of transitioning plants from outdoor to indoor environments, the importance…
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THC Infused Beverages: New Data from MoreBetter
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Miyabe Shields dive into the world’s largest study on infused cannabis beverages, exploring how cannabinoid-based drinkables are transforming wellness, social drinking culture, and public health. They sit down with Tyler and Kevin...
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Going To College to Become a Cannabis Scientist with Guest Alex Eckman
Alex Eckman shares his journey in the cannabis industry, from being a medical patient to pursuing a degree in cannabis chemistry at Lake Superior State University. He discusses the evolution of cannabis education, the importance of research, and his findings on vape carts and microplastics. Alex...
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My Birth/ Postpartum Journey (So Far)
CONTENT WARNING: IF YOU HAVE STRUGGLED WITH A DIFFICULT BIRTH EXPERIENCE THIS STORY MAY NOT BE BENEFICIAL TO LISTEN TO Dr. Riley Kirk shares her postpartum journey, discussing her high-risk pregnancy due to ICP, the challenges of early induction, and her return to cannabis use for mental...
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Flavonoids in Cannabis: Introducing Cannflavins
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes international cannabis consultant, researcher, and author Russ Hudson to explore the fascinating world of flavonoids—an often overlooked but powerful group of compounds found in cannabis and everyday foods. In this episode, Russ shares his journey from the underground...
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Cannabis and Geriatric Care with Dr. Janice Makela, MD PART TWO: Sleep & Mental Health
In part two of Dr. Riley Kirk's conversation with Dr. Janice Makela, MD, they delve into the complexities of cannabis use among the elderly, discussing its potential benefits and risks for sleep and mental health matters. The conversation also covers the importance of low dosing, the role of the...
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Cannabis and Geriatric Care with Dr. Janice Makela
Host Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Dr. Janice Makela, MD for part one of a two part episode; the conversation was so interesting they couldn't cut it short! They discuss the evolving landscape of cannabis medicine, particularly for the geriatric population. She emphasizes the importance of…
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Dry Herb Vaping with Jürgen Bickel | STORZ & BICKEL + Volcano & Mighty Giveaway
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, I sit down with Jürgen Bickel, Managing Director and Co-Founder of STORZ & BICKEL, the legendary German company behind the Volcano, Mighty, Venty and Crafty vaporizers. We dive deep into: - What dry herb vaping is and how it works - Why vaporizing…
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Devin Melnyk: From Grower to Cannabis Tech Start Up
Devin Melnyk shares his journey from the gray market of cannabis cultivation to working with one of the largest licensed producers in Canada. He discusses the evolution of the cannabis industry, the differences between the Canadian and U.S. markets, and the importance of community in cannabis...
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Cannabis is Personalized Medicine with Lauren Avenius at Mary Jane Berlin
This week we are headed to Germany, this podcast was recorded at the world's largest cannabis expo called Mary Jane Berlin. I had the opportunity to jointly host and record a podcast with Lauren Avenius, the CEO of Node Labs. She is doing some ground breaking work with cannabis breeding and...
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How Animals Medicate with Dr. Jaap De Roode
In this conversation, host Dr. Riley Kirk and guest Dr. Jaap De Roode discuss the fascinating field of zoo pharmacognosy, exploring how animals medicate themselves using natural substances. He shares insights from his research on monarch butterflies and honeybees, highlighting the role of toxic...
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#NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe Shields: Exploring Cannabis Science and Community
Join us for a deep dive into the world of cannabis science with Dr. Miyabe Shields and host Dr. Riley Kirk cofounders of the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy. NAP is a nonprofit focused on studying the real world uses of cannabis and other natural products as well as the biochemical mechanisms.…
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Cannabis, Pregnancy, Fertility and Breastfeeding: A neuropharmacologist’s perspective with Dr. Michele Ross
In this conversation, Dr. Michele Ross discusses the complexities of cannabis use during pregnancy, sharing her personal experiences and insights as a neuropharmacologist and fibromyalgia patient. The discussion highlights the lack of comprehensive research on the effects of cannabis, the...
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What Happens When A Stoner Scientist Gets Pregnant... My Journey So Far
In this episode, Riley Kirk shares her personal journey through pregnancy, focusing on her experiences with cannabis use, tapering down her consumption, and the emotional and physical changes she faced. She discusses the importance of mental health during this time, the role of her supportive...
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The Amazing Coevolution of Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed Plants with Dr. Anurag Agrawal
In this conversation, Host Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Anurag Agrawal discuss the intricate relationship between monarch butterflies and milkweed, exploring themes of coevolution, chemical ecology, and the ecological arms race. He explains how monarchs have adapted to survive the toxic compounds in...
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Figuring out how THC works in the brain with Dr. Allyn Howlett
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Allyn Howlett—renowned neuroscientist and pioneer in cannabinoid research—shares her groundbreaking journey into the study of cannabis and the discovery of the CB1 receptor. Originally focused on neuronal hormones, Dr. Howlett recounts how her…
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The Science Behind how CBD Works in the Brain with guest Dr. Josh Kaplan
In this conversation, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Josh Kaplan delve into the complexities of cannabis research, particularly focusing on CBD and its therapeutic potential for conditions like epilepsy. Dr. Kaplan shares his journey into cannabis research, highlighting the significance of understanding...
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The Science of the Dry and Cure Process with David Sandelman from Cannatrol
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk interviews David Sandelman from Cannatrol, delving into the intricate processes of drying and curing cannabis. David shares his journey into the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of controlling environmental conditions to…
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Homegrow Made Easy with Jordan River from Growcast
In this conversation, Jordan River shares his journey into the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of home growing and the concept of Overgrow, which advocates for more individuals to cultivate their own plants. He discusses the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, the connection to…
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Choosing the Right Cannabis Seeds with Dan Nelson from Happy Valley Genetics
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dan Nelson from Happy Valley Genetics discuss the importance of home growing cannabis and the various types of seeds available. They delve into the differences between photoperiod and autoflower seeds, the benefits of feminized seeds…
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Cannabis Medical Cards with Dr. June Chin from Leafwell
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk speaks with Dr. June Chin, Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell, about the evolving landscape of medical cannabis. They discuss the benefits of obtaining a medical card, the differences between medical and recreational cannabis, and the...
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How to Evaluate Quality Cannabis With Certified Ganjier Elizabeth Sage
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, host Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Elizabeth Sage who is a certified Ganjier- which is essentially the weed equivalent to a sommelier in the wine world. In this conversation, Riley and Elizabeth delve into the intricate process of evaluating cannabis,...
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Unlocking the Secrets of Hop Latent Viroid in Cannabis: Dr. Ali Bektaş
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, host Dr. Riley Kirk dives deep into groundbreaking cannabis science with world-renowned molecular biologist Dr. Ali Bektaş. Dr. Bektaş has an impressive background in plant biology, microbes, and agriculture, specializing in affordable and distributed...
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Cannabis Suppositories with Nurse Megan Mbengue
On this episode of Bioactive, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Megan Mbengue, RN, MS. Megan is the owner of the cannabis company The Trusted Cannabis Nurse. She formulates custom products for patient specific needs as well as selling whole plant formulations through her website. The conversation...
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Top Cannabis Research From 2024 & What's New for Bioactive in 2025!
🌱 In this episode of Bioactive, host Dr. Riley Kirk dives into her favorite cannabis research publications from 2024, sharing groundbreaking insights that advanced our understanding of this incredible plant. 📖 Exciting News! Dr. Kirk's upcoming book, Reefer Wellness: Understanding Cannabis as...
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Smuggling Cannabis: Tales and Tribulations with Ken Behr
In this engaging conversation, Ken Behr shares his remarkable journey from a dyslexic child who struggled in school to a successful writer and former drug smuggler. He discusses the challenges he faced growing up, the influence of his family, and the cultural shifts he experienced moving to…
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Lit and Legit: Breaking the Stigma Surrounding Women in Media and Cannabis Use
Host Riley Kirk interviews Sarah Burke, the founder of Women in Media Network and her new producer! They explore the intersection of cannabis, science, media, and the evolving perception of cannabis in society, especially as it pertains to women. They question some of the advertising challenges...
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FIRST New York Cannabis Event & Research Updates #NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe Shields
Dr. Miyabe Shields and Dr. Riley Kirk: Leaders in Cannabis and Natural Products Research Dr. Miyabe Shields and Dr. Riley Kirk, co-founders of the nonprofit organization The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), are at the forefront of research and education in cannabis science and natural...
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The Science and Magic of Sungrown Cannabis
🌱 The Science and Magic of Sungrown Cannabis | Bioactive Podcast 🌱 Join Dr. Riley Kirk and an inspiring panel of experts — Tina Gordon, Lindsay MaHarry, Colleen King, and Christina Wong — as they dive deep into the unique qualities of sungrown cannabis! Recorded after their 2024 Emerald Cup…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Dr. Riley Kirk is a cannabis research scientist and educator. She obtained her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, specializing in natural product chemistry, studying the traditional and contemporary uses of hundreds of medicinal plants. She is currently an assistant associate professor at the University of Rhode Island, has worked as an immunology scientist in the biotech industry, and works in the cannabis industry studying the chemical complexity of cannabis smoke.
Riley is also the co-founder of the cannabis research and education non-profit organization called the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP). Through NAP and on her podcast, Riley uses science as advocacy to research and communicate findings that highlight the unique power of natural products. The goal of Riley’s work is to unite people in the Cannabis industry, academia, and consumers to further the reach of Cannabis education and reduce harm.
Riley is passionate about making Cannabis science accessible thr
HOSTED BY
Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does BIOACTIVE have?
BIOACTIVE currently has 96 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is BIOACTIVE about?
Dr. Riley Kirk is a cannabis research scientist and educator. She obtained her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, specializing in natural product chemistry, studying the traditional and contemporary uses of hundreds of medicinal plants. She is currently an assistant associate professor at the...
How often does BIOACTIVE release new episodes?
BIOACTIVE has 96 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to BIOACTIVE?
You can listen to BIOACTIVE on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts BIOACTIVE?
BIOACTIVE is created and hosted by Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D..
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