The AusCannaPodcast

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, Christina McMullan sits down with pharmacist Neda Beric from CannCompounding to explore the evolving role of cannabinoid therapies in Women’s Health.Neda works directly with prescribers and patients to develop and refine compounded cannabinoid formulations tailored to individual needs. Her approach is grounded in real-world patient feedback, where treatment is continuously adjusted based on lived experience, symptom response, and quality of life outcomes.This episode highlights a shift in Women’s Health care towards more responsive, individualised treatment models, where patient experience is not an afterthought, but a core part of clinical decision making.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:16)* Why Women’s Health Needs More Attention (10:19)* How Compounded Cannabis Actually Works (13:45)* A Real Patient Journey (Start to Adjustment) (15:01)* Hormones, Cycles & Why Timing Matters (18:05)* Perimenopause & Unpredictable Treatment Needs (20:01)* When Treatment Isn’t Working (And What to Do) (22:50)* Small Tweaks, Big Changes (25:02)* The Role of Patient Feedback (26:00)* Why Patients Just Want to Feel Normal Again (28:00)* What Patients Wish Doctors Understood (31:30)* The Future of Cannabis in Women’s Health (32:18)* Fast-Acting Formulations & Nano Tech (33:40)* Don’t Give Up: Finding What Works for You (37:00)* Reducing Stigma & Final Takeaways (41:00)Show Notes:* Alan WattsWhere to Find Neda and Cann Compounding:* Cann Compounding on Instagram* Cann Compounding Email [email protected]* Cann Compounding on LinkedIn* Cann Compounding WebsiteWhere to Find Christina:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What if the most important part of your cannabis experience happens before the plant is even grown?In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Chase, founder of Umami Seed Co., to explore the world of cannabis genetics, phenohunting, and what it really takes to create a cultivar worth building around.With over 20 years in the space, Chase shares how a single decision early in his growing journey sparked a lifelong obsession with breeding, and why today, that same process can take years to refine.We unpack the reality behind phenohunting, why most cultivars never make the cut, and what separates something that’s simply “good” from something that truly stands out.But this conversation goes deeper than genetics.In an industry where patients often don’t see what happens behind the scenes, we explore the role of trust, how much of the cannabis experience is shaped at the genetic level, and why flavour, terpene profiles, and subtle chemical differences can completely change how a product feels.From the early days of weed to global expansion across medical markets, this is a grounded, honest look at the evolution of cannabis and the people shaping its future.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:28)* Falling in Love with Cannabis Genetics (15:15)* From Brick Weed to Boutique Bud… It’s a Stark Difference! (18:45)* Trust, Genetics & Industry Transparency… Is Cannabis Built on Trust or Blind Faith? (22:50)* No Compromise Philosophy (29:15)* What Keeps Chase Up At Night? (30:12)* The Reality of Pheno Hunting (33:55)* Terpenes, Flavour & the “Umami” Concept (40:01)* What Makes a Cultivar “10/10” (42:00)* Patient Perspective: Effects vs Genetics (44:58)* Global Cannabis: Regulations & Chaos (52:01)* Prefecting Craft Cannabis on a Global Scale (53:44)* Classic vs Modern Breeding… Why both can coexist (56:30)* Passion Over Profit (60:02)* Where to Find Umami (64:00)Show Notes:* Umami Seed Co YouTube Channel* Terpene of the Month: Terpinolene Where to Find Chase:* Umami Seed Co on Twitter/X* Umami Seed Co on Instagram* Umami Seed Co on LinkedIn* Umami Seed Co on Facebook* Umamai Seed Co WebsiteWhere to Find Christina:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

There’s a shift happening in the Australian medicinal cannabis industry.As the space grows and becomes more commercial, many are starting to ask the same question: Are we losing the patient voice?In this episode, I sit down with Bee Mohamed, a government relations and advocacy professional working at the intersection of policy and lived experience, to unpack where things really stand.We talk about the move from grassroots advocacy to industry growth, and the growing disconnect between decision-making and real patient experience.Bee shares why lived experience needs to go beyond tokenism and be embedded into how policy is actually shaped. Plus, we explore what it would take to bring patients back into the centre of the conversation. We also get practical. From patient-led events to better industry support for advocacy, this isn’t just about what’s broken… It’s about what we can build next.Because this space was created for patients, and the future of it depends on whether we keep them at the centre.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:04)* From Grassroots to Growth: Are We Losing the Patient Voice? (10:02)* The Problem With “Patient Consultation” (TGA Breakdown) (14:01)* Why Patient Stories Actually Change Policy (19:01)* When Profit Enters: Has the Industry Shifted Too Far… What Can You Do For Me? (22:58)* Collaboration vs Gatekeeping: What Needs to Change (28:57)* “The Peace Pipe”: A New Kind of Patient Event… Looking For Sponsors (31:15)* Can Companies Support Advocacy Without Breaking the Rules? (34:01)* Outdated Systems: Prescribing, Access & Education Gaps (37:01)* What Needs to Happen Next (Patients, Clinicians, Industry) (41:58)* The Meaning Behind Mata & Storytelling as Medicine (45:01)* Full Circle Moment (49:00)Show Notes:* The Mata Collective Website* Drive Change* Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers 2026Where to Find Bee:* Bee on SubStack (The Mata Collective)* Bee on Instagram* Bee on LinkedInWhere to Find Christina:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews, with Paul and Christina coming together occasionally to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world.In this episode:* Unmissable talks: Gabriel Younes on aroma, and Chad Walkaden on Indigenous healthcare (2:30)* The TGA Presentation: cautious optimism and takeaways (7:00)* Community leading the way (12:00)* Good vibes prevailing in a volatile time (14:30)* Key takeaways - memories, challenged perspectives, finding common ground, breaking stigma (17:00)* Improving UIC for patients (22:00)* UIC is Cannabis School Camp (26:00)@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] $10 off accessories with the code ‘CATCHUP’ at giveandtoke.com.au This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode, Christina sits down with Helen Kapalos for a frank conversation about medicinal cannabis, media, and policy in Australia. Helen shares the story behind her documentary A Life of Its Own, why she left mainstream journalism, and how stigma and misinformation still shape public narratives.They unpack the TGA’s medicinal cannabis review, the danger of policy driven by headlines, and the gaps in data, education, and leadership across the sector. From patient power to the need for credible research and medical education, this episode looks at what real reform could actually look like in Australia.If you want to understand how policy, media, and advocacy collide in cannabis, this one is essential listening.In this episode:* Rapid Fire* Who is Helen Kapalos?* A Life of Its Own hits a roadblock that mortgaging a house overcomes* The things you learn as you grow* Everyone’s talking about the TGA review with hyped up narratives* Knee-jerk reactions and loaded questions lead the conversation* Why is the TGA’s head in the sand?* Letters… who’s getting them and who’s not?* Cherry picking the facts* Who has the real influence?* We need more research and education * Lowering the bar on expectations* Show me the data!!!* Hope for the TGA’s review… Best-case scenarios * The plant doesn’t change; our understanding of the plant does* Christina’s small confession* There’s important work left to doShow Notes:* A Life of Its Own* AusCannaReviews’ TGA Letter* E-Petition to end roadside and workplace zero tolerance of THC for medicinal cannabis patients in QLD. (The petition is closing on April 22, 2026. 💚)Where to Find Helen:* Helen on LinkedIn* Helen on InstagramWhere to Find Christina:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

After months of scheduling across time zones, Christina finally sits down with UK cannabis patient advocate and industry insider Alex Fraser for a wide-ranging conversation on advocacy, access, and what happens when patients step inside the system they once protested.Alex shares his journey from living with Crohn’s disease to becoming one of the UK’s most influential voices in medical cannabis. What began as personal symptom relief evolved into activism, community organising, and the creation of the United Patients Alliance, a movement that helped push medical cannabis into the mainstream conversation.Now working with distributor Grow Group, Alex reflects on the shift from grassroots advocacy to shaping the industry from within, the realities of building a career in cannabis, and why transparency matters more than ever. They also dive into Grow Conversations, a platform designed to humanise the industry and rebuild trust between patients, clinicians, and companies.A big focus of this episode is the legal and social challenges patients still face. Christina and Alex unpack discriminatory driving laws, stigma, and the emotional toll of being judged for using prescribed medicine. Alex also introduces Patient Protect, a new subscription-based legal support service for UK patients navigating arrests, court cases, and systemic barriers.This episode is honest, personal, and practical. It is about responsibility, community, and what real patient-led change looks like when advocacy meets industry.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire * Driving Laws… discrimination at its finest* Where did Alex’s cannabis journey start?* From grassroots to a steady paycheque* What drew Alex to work with the Grow Group?* Grow Conversations… open dialogue during the lockdown* The power of transparency * Patient Protect… empowering patients rather than just directing them* Could something like Patient Protect work in Australia?* The cost of advocacy * Hope that the narrative is shifting* Alex’s call to actionShow Notes:* The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien* Crohn’s disease* United Patients Alliance* Grow Group* Grow Conversations* Patient ProtectWhere to Find Alex:* Alex on LinkedIn* Alex on Instagram* Alex on TikTok * Alex on FacebookWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

This Year in Review episode brings together the clips you replayed, shared, and messaged me about all year, along with the three most downloaded episodes of the season, a proud moment taking the AusCannaPodcast on the road to New Zealand and Thailand, and a few milestones that stopped me in my tracks.Show Notes:Veterans Deserve Better: Derek Pyrah on PTSD, Cannabis and the Fight to Change the DVA SystemGrow High, Aim Higher: Medcan Australia’s Mission with Gareth BallThe Christinas: A Cannabis Conversation Across Two WorldsSVG: The Genesis Study: CBD, IBS, and the Future of Gut HealthFrom Bedridden to Blunt Truths: Sharna Stewart’s Medicinal Cannabis JourneySacha La Forgia: From Award-Winning Winemaker to Craft Cannabis CultivatorWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Harry Baird joins me for a slow, thoughtful chat about how cannabis fits into real life. We look at the moments that shaped his journey, from early flower sessions to discovering extracts and why solventless has opened up a whole new lane of learning for him.We talk about catching yourself when your habits drift, finding balance again, and why aroma can tell you more than test results ever will. Harry breaks down concentrates in simple terms, shares what he’s learned so far, and looks at where extracts might sit in the future of the Australian market.We touch on stigma, responsible use, and why open conversations still matter. We talk sport, movement, daily rituals, and the way different people consume, whether it’s wine, whiskey or weed.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (1:50)* When the rotation takes you out (10:26)* Catching yourself slipping (14:24)* The mindset shift that changed everything (16:02)* Why some aromas hit home (19:20)* Harry’s extract education (22:17)* Concentrates in plain English (26:28)* The future of extracts in Australia (28:47)* Is this how Big Pharma walks in? (30:29)* Talking honestly to change stigma (35:27)* What responsible use really means (38:00)* A space with zero judgment (43:11)* Ten years of legal access… “Bud Murphy’s” (48:15)* Could home grow be the missing piece? (51:56)* So you work in cannabis (58:01)* Can weed and wellness/fitness get along? (61:02)* Wine, whiskey, and weed (62:55)* Harry’s final message (64:10)Show Notes:* Arnott’s Chocolate Royals* Mac Miller - Nikes On My Feet* SilverStar Mountain Resort* Stranger Things* Game of Thrones* Flagstaff Hill Skatepark* Analysis of street cannabis and cannabinoid composition in Australia* Bundaberg Distillery TourWhere to Find Harry:* Harry on LinkedIn* Zaari on LinkedInWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode, I sit down with Los Angeles creator and edibles expert Christina W. founder of Fruit & Flower Co. for a candid conversation about cannabis from farm to table. We talk about sun-grown flowers, the art and science of edibles, and the rituals that shape how we experience the plant.Christina shares stories from her years visiting farms in northern California, the rise of curated cannabis experiences, and why intention matters more than grow style. We compare the cannabis cultures of California and Australia, explore the challenges of medical regulations, and discuss the minor cannabinoids that deserve more attention.Along the way, we share tips for overconsumption, debate creative versus clinical approaches to cannabis, and reflect on the communities that make the plant meaningful. This is a conversation about craft, culture, curiosity, and connection!👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:05)* Morning rituals and learning to roll a joint (14:30)* The fading world of craft sun-grown flower (23:54)* Owning the role of a weed influencer (27:22)* Why intention matters more than grow style (30:07)* What Christina pays attention to on farm tours (34:28)* The rise of “curated” cannabis farm experiences (36:28)* Balancing clinical dosing with creative cooking (37:44)* Tinctures and easy infusion shortcuts (42:08)* A look inside Australia’s medical cannabis system (43:08)* Going too far and feeling held by the community (45:15)* Tips for handling overconsumption (48:15)* Who’s actually growing Australia’s cannabis? (50:20)* It’s illegal everywhere… except the ACT (51:37)* Home grow, THC trends and what’s being lost (54:10)* Minor cannabinoids and why we need more options (58:58)* When cannabis becomes a commodity (61:44)* Christina’s call to action (65:30)Show Notes:* Great British Bake Off* Hemostat* Palmer’s Lotion* Joint holder ring* Papa & Barkley* Pure Beauty* Glass House Brands (Article about ICE raid)* Sol Spirit Farms* Moon Made Farms* Maven Genetics* Kiva Confections* Ay Papi* Yummi Karma* LA Times Pesticide article Where to Find Christina W:* Fruit+Flower Unfurled on SubStack* @fruitandflower on Instagram* @fruitandflower on TikTokWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this special episode of The Catch-Up, Christina Mc Mullan and Paul O’Donoghue reunite to unpack their recent trip to Thailand. They share insights from their visits to Iridescent Med and the facility cultivating Cookies California genetics, reflect on the world-class standards they witnessed, and express gratitude for the hospitality extended by the teams. Expect thoughtful reflections, genuine appreciation, and excitement about the innovation shaping Thailand’s cannabis landscape.Show NotesRead all about the Thailand adventure here: Thailand with SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals: An Unforgettable Cannabis Journey@AusCannaReviews on ⁠⁠SubStack⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Twitter/X⁠⁠Email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠www.giveandtoke.com.au⁠⁠Follow @giveandtoke on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode, I’m joined by Deb Ranson, a Registered Nurse and Clinical Nurse Consultant who has spent her career championing patient-centred care while supporting and educating healthcare practitioners. We dive deep into the endocannabinoid system and why every healthcare professional should understand it, the challenges and barriers created by hospital and facility policies around medicinal cannabis, and the practical ways Deb is helping clinicians navigate these complexities through her platform, Bodhi Nurse.Deb shares her insights on bridging the gap between policy and practice, ensuring both patients and practitioners have access to accurate, evidence-based information, and advocating for changes that truly reflect patient needs. Her motto, “reach one, teach one,” guides her work and highlights how small shifts in education can create real, systemic change.Whether you’re a practitioner, a patient, or simply curious about cannabis in healthcare, this episode is packed with practical advice, advocacy strategies, and compassionate guidance for navigating this evolving field.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:17)* Who is Deb Ranson? (17:05)* What it was like to first become involved in the cannabis space (19:16)* 2016 was the year things changed… Cannabis education enters the hospital setting (22:20)* Reach One, Teach One (26:15)* Explaining the ECS (33:22)* The power of rebalancing your ECS… Happy Go Larry (39:22)* When the driving laws force patients to choose (41:11)* When the TGA wants evidence (43:17)* Working together so that patients are functional members of society (45:20)* The biggest challenges in hospital and facility policies around medicinal cannabis (49:27)* Don’t have a policy? Make one! (50:30)* Examples of facilities that are getting it right (54:50)* Hospital drug vault sigmas with no key (59:53) * Medications in a school setting… no touching! (62:01)* Where would we be without nurses? (65:05)* Deb’s call to action (69:01)Show Notes:* Dr Peter Grinspoon Books* Rocky Horror Picture Show * Requiem for a Dream* Cannabis Queens Book* Chico Babies * United in Compassion (UIC)* Drive Change* The Endocannabinoid SystemWhere to Find Deb Ranson:* Nurses’ Green Health Education Website* Bodhi Nurse* Email [email protected] to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast “On the Road”, I sit down with Alexis Lopez, Puro’s Extraction Program Lead, to dive deep into the craft and science of cannabis extraction. Originally from Seattle, Alexis has a background in environmental science and sustainability, with experience managing a six-year Agent Orange cleanup project in Vietnam. Since moving to New Zealand, he’s helped shape the country’s medicinal cannabis extraction landscape through his work with the New Zealand Medicinal Cannabis Council and ASTM.At Puro, Alexis leads the extraction program, bringing high-quality extracts from organically grown cannabis to the world. We talk about everything from trichome morphology and live hash-making to what makes a perfect batch of bubble hash, why patience is key in extraction, and how sustainability drives innovation in the industry.Whether you’re a cannabis professional or simply curious about the art and science behind hash, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the meticulous, hands-on process that turns plant to product — and the story of the people shaping it.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:22)* Who is Alexis Lopez (9:44)* Alexis moves to Puro (11:58)* Where did Alexis get his start in extractions (13:15)* Types of extractions Alexis is drawn to (15:16)* The extraction disconnect (17:01)* But it’s still hash (21:08)* The process of making live hash (22:19)* What’s a bubble bag? (23:51)* Are smaller or bigger microns better? (25:17)* Trichome morphology and why it’s important for hash making (26:15)* What’s the hardest part about making hash? (28:09)* How long is the live hash-making process? (31:01)* Product in vs product out (32:07)* What’s Alexis’s idea of a perfect batch of bubble hash? (33:09)* How do you know if your hash is any good? (35:44)* What’s the best use for hash? (37:24)* What does bubble hash look like? (39:17)* What happens if you get your hash wet? (40:44)* Hot tip… don’t use your fingers! (41:27)* The future of hash (42:26)* Alexis’s call to action (46:57) Show Notes:* My New Zealand Adventure BTS* New Zealand Medicinal Cannabis Council* ASTM* ShatterWhere to Find Alexis:* Puro Website* Email [email protected] to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Season Four of the AusCannaPodcast kicks off “On the Road” in New Zealand. Earlier this year, I spent a week driving the rugged South Island coast, where the mountains meet the sea and the stories are deeply tied to the land. The first stop: a visit with brothers Sank and Winston Macfarlane of Puro.Sank, an agribusiness leader with deep roots in finance and farming, and Winston, a former America’s Cup sailor turned operations lead, are now steering one of New Zealand’s most ambitious cannabis projects. From the steep learning curve of year one to refining their approach by year two, they share the realities of building Puro from the ground up, navigating export regulations, and why strong community ties matter just as much as cultivation.And here’s the takeaway: this isn’t just a story about a farm. It’s about rethinking what cannabis can be by moving past THC and toward a future that connects land, people, and purpose.This episode is part one of a two-part On the Road series recorded during my New Zealand adventure. Next up: Alexis Lopez on the fine art of hash making.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:42)* Who are Sank and Winston? (9:15)* Puro was born (11:50) * The first year… A massive learning curve (14:52)* Year two… Doubling down and dialling it in (18:34)* New Zealand export regulations (20:26)* The importance of community ties (22:38)* Sank and Tim Aldridge (Puro Executive Chair) go door-knocking (25:53)* Open days at the Puro farm (28:02)* The live-dried process 101 (28:51)* 75,000 plants in the ground, outdoors under the sun (31:19)* Proving the concept, now we’re upgrading (33:37)* Letting go of preconceived notions (37:28)* Where is Puro going in the next few years? (39:07)* Exporting always keeps you on your toes (41:16)* Would life be easier if…? (42:35)* Sank’s long-term goal (47:09)* Winston’s frustration with trying to educate (48:04)* Seeing things in a different light (48:34)* There’s a lot more magic to be had (50:21)* Shifting the narrative away from THC (52:16)* Sank and Winston’s parting words of wisdom (55:07)* New Zealand turning on the charm (57:17)Show Notes:* My New Zealand Adventure BTS* Magi Mix* Bananas on Boats* Winston the Sailor * The Store * Winterhome Garden* Medicinal Cannabis Scheme, allowing New Zealand companies to export* Puro’s Government GrantWhere to Find Sank and Winston:* Puro WebsiteWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

After 16 years in the Australian Army, Jason Frost came home with invisible wounds… PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and the crushing weight of polypharmacy. When traditional treatment failed him, cannabis medicine gave him a way back.In this raw and powerful episode, Jason opens up about the hardest parts of that journey and how it led to his work with the Pro Patria Centre, a veteran-led hub of healing, advocacy, and community care based in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales.We talk about what recovery really looks like, why the current system still leaves so many veterans behind, and what needs to change in the way we treat trauma, addiction, and pain.Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, a prescriber, or someone who believes in holistic, evidence-informed care, this one’s for you.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:39)* Special Shout Out to… GRizzle! (9:50)* Who is Jason Frost? (10:05 )* When the system sees you as a person, versus a number (17:46)* Lightbulb moments (22:04)* Not real support, just a note slid across the table (24:22)* Navigating the stigma (25:57)* Who are we advocating to—policymakers, veterans, the general public? (28:43)* Embracing the plant (29:53)* A place for Big Pharma (34:08)* Pro Patria Centre is born (40:31)* Helping veterans beyond traditional services (43:32)* Veteran-led but community-grounded (47:55)* Where is Jason on his journey? (50:00)* What’s next, because we’re not there yet (52:14)* How to get in touch and support the Pro Patria Centre (53:47)* Pro Patria, a name that was meant to be (55:19)Show Notes:* How to Change Your Mind - Michael Pollan* Weeded Warrior* Carmelite Monastery* Transcranial magnetic stimulationWhere to Find Jason Frost:* Pro Patria Centre* Jason on LinkedInWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast🚨 Vape users in Melbourne! 🚨📢 TrueLeaf and Satinca are teaming up for an exclusive Vape Device Cleaning & Maintenance Day on Saturday, 23rd August. Bring your device in for a free professional clean, grab a Satinca goodie bag, and enter to win some awesome prizes! 🎉📍 314–316 Chapel St, Prahran⏰ 10:30am – 1:30pm🛠️ Spots are limited — book now to secure yours! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What happens behind the doors of a compounding pharmacy, and why does it matter in the world of cannabis and psychedelic medicine?In this episode, I sit down with compounding pharmacist Matthew Soliman from Cann Compounding to explore how tailored formulations are helping patients get better outcomes. From THC-infused chocolates and fast-acting gummies to high-dose oils for seizure control, Matthew walks us through the creative and clinical side of making medicines that don’t come off the shelf.We talk real-world case studies, the growing role of minor cannabinoids, and why pessaries might be one of the most underrated delivery formats in medical cannabis. Matthew also opens up about sourcing challenges, Australia’s regulatory twists, and where compounding could take us next.Plus: pineapple on pizza, zombie apocalypse roles, and what you’d pack for a mystery trip because what’s a podcast without a little fun?Whether you’re a prescriber, a patient, or just curious about the science behind the script, this one’s worth a listen.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:07)* Who is Matthew Soliman? (8:33)* What’s Matthew’s day-to-day life like? (10:37)* What’s the difference between a community pharmacy and a compounding pharmacy? (12:13)* What cannabis formats does Matthew work with most (capsules, oils, creams, etc)? (13:54)* Underused formats that Matthew would like to see more of? (14:45)* What’s the craziest compounding request Matthew has ever received? (16:35)* When custom formulations make a big difference in a patient’s outcome (18:57)* Are prescribers aware of what’s possible through compounding? (20:54)* What does Matthew’s typical workflow with a doctor look like? (21:34)* Who’s decarbing the flower? (24:33)* Validating consistency between batches (26:55)* The most popular compounding product and why it could be beneficial (28:19)* Are there certain specialties that use compounding more often? (29:20)* The struggles of sourcing products (31:54)* More minor cannabinoids, please (34:26)* Where’s the demand…full-spectrum or precision-based formulations? (39:34)* Different rules for different states (40:18)* Where is cannabis compounding going in the next few years? (41:46)* Is personalisation based on genetics or biomarkers part of the future? (42:55)* Full circle moment… the best bookend ever! (44:40)* Matthew’s Call to Action (46:31)Show Notes:* Acacia TreeWhere to Find Matthew Soliman:* @CannCompoundingPharmacy on Instagram* Matthew on LinkedIn* Cann Compounding WebsiteWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

After a spider bite triggered a cascade of chronic conditions, Sharna Stewart spent eight years bedridden. She endured years of ketamine infusions, brain surgery, and opioid medications that only made things worse. But everything changed when she discovered medicinal cannabis.In this powerful and unfiltered conversation, Sharna shares what it’s really like to live with Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Endometriosis, and Gastroparesis. She talks about the relief cannabis gave her when nothing else did, the stigma she had to overcome, and why she now advocates for others living with chronic pain and invisible illness.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt unheard, misdiagnosed, or out of options. Sharna’s story is raw, real, and a reminder that healing doesn’t always come from a pill.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:17)* Who is Sharna? (9:13)* Early conversations Sharna had with her healthcare team (13:45)* The toll everything was taking on Sharna’s body (16:48)* When the pain specialist laughs, but the hospital GP is all for it (18:40)* 12 years of battles, 8 years bedridden, 4 years with medical cannabis (20:15)* A little bit of flower in a friend’s Mighty (21:20)* What was that like for someone who’s in chronic pain for the first time? (26:33)* Getting real about the chronic pain scale (33:48)* Terpene love! (37:35)* Write 7 things down; it may help you improve your therapeutic outcomes (39:49)* Sharna’s advocacy work, what started it? (44:18)* What happens when Sharna goes into the hospital and gets denied access to her medicinal cannabis? (52:05)* Fighting the blanket ban on vapes (54:57)* Where to find Sharna (66:37)* The call to action (68:11)Show Notes:* Blink 182 - Dammit* Dua Lipa - IDGAF* OnTracka App* Kyla de Clifford @CannaCuriousAus on Instagram* Rachel Payne Medicinal Cannabis accessibility in Victorian hospitalsWhere to Find Sharna:* @Fibroadvocate1 on Instagram* http://www.fibroadvocate1.netWhere to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What do you get when you combine over a decade in pharma, a chef’s eye for detail, and a patient-first mindset? You get Satinca, Australia’s first pharmacy-exclusive medical cannabis accessories provider and the brainchild of Claud Chaouka.In this episode, I sit down with Claud to unpack the story behind Satinca from the spark that motivated them to build the brand, to the challenges of staying compliant while innovating, to the surprising ways a clean grinder can improve your medication experience.We talk pharmacy, patient safety, device hygiene, and why educating both pharmacists and patients is at the heart of Satinca’s mission. Whether you're a patient, prescriber, pharmacist, or just curious about the ecosystem supporting medical cannabis in Australia, this episode is packed with insight.🧼 We even declare a future Satinca Device Cleaning Day... so stay tuned for that!👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected] 💚 If you enjoyed this conversation, please consider leaving a 5-star review or sharing the episode with a friend navigating the medical cannabis space. And if you’d like to support the podcast, you can buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/auscannapodcastMentioned in this episode:* Rapid Fire (2:07)* Who is Claud Chaouka? (15:00)* From chef life to the pharmacy world (16:42)* What motivated Claud to start Satinca? (18:07)* First products developed under Satinca (21:58)* Stop putting your fingers in your grinder! (24:58)* Quick tips to clean your grinder (26:27)* Satinca Device Cleaning Day… more to come! (27:09)* Bridging the education gap (29:10)* The decision behind going pharmacy-exclusive (30:18)* Helping pharmacists feel more comfortable educating patients (31:54)* Sharing our story has a local impact (34:00)* Staying compliant while still being innovative (37:54)* How to keep going on tough days (41:00)* Satinca in 5 years… (43:57)* The future of cannabis in pharmacies in Australia (45:28)* Satinca legacy (46:29)* Claud’s call to action (48:07)Show Notes:* Chat Thai Restaurant * We’re All Insane Podcast* The Reacher Grabber* Give & Toke Travel BagWhere to Find Claud:* Email [email protected]* Claud on LinkedIn* Satinca Website* @SatincaAustralia on InstagramWhere to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Derek Pyrah is the founder of the No More Zombie Veterans campaign—a powerful movement born from lived experience.A former Australian Defence Force member and PTSD survivor, Derek knows firsthand the damage long-term pharmaceutical overmedication can cause. After discovering the healing potential of plant-based medicines, including medicinal cannabis, he now channels his energy into advocacy, pushing for meaningful reform within the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).In this episode, Derek shares his personal story, unpacks the systemic issues facing veterans with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, and explains why access to plant-based medicine isn’t just a health issue… It’s a human rights one.This is a raw, honest, and deeply important conversation about trauma, resilience, and the urgent need for change.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:53)* Who is Derek Pyrah? (11:18)* Battling PTSD and transitioning out of the service (14:47)* The day-to-day reality of being overmedicated and what it did to Derek’s sense of identity (17:09)* When other people in Derek’s life noticed a change (20:23)* First attempt at applying for medicinal cannabis via the DVA (22:23)* Busted in the bush and facing 10 years (23:38)* Starting the dialogue with the No More Zombie Veterans campaign (25:35)* Pushing back because the science is there (26:48)* The more you know about the Endocannabinoid System (27:54)* Some of the misconceptions around medicinal cannabis that Derek finds most frustrating (29:05)* Cannabis as a frontline medication (33:14)* Where does the mind shift around cannabis need to come from? (34:50)* How to get involved in the No More Zombie Veterans campaign (36:23)* The fine art of balancing hope while still stuck in the system (38:29)* Small wins that make the difference (39:29)* Leaving a legacy (40:56)* Reflections of then vs now (43:01)* Fight for change and something good (44:43)* Derek’s call to action (46:00)Show Notes:* Doing a Bradbury* Califorina Gazpacho recipeWhere to Find Derek Pyrah:* Instagram @nomorezombieveterans* LinkedIn * Twitter/X @nomorezombievet* TikTok @nomorezombieveter3* Facebook: https://facebook.com/nomorezombieveterans* Website: https://www.nomorezombieveterans.com* Sign the petition: Approve medicinal cannabis for Australian veterans* Buy Me A Coffee/No More Zombie VeteransWhere to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What happens when you walk straight out of the grow room and hit record?In this special On the Road episode, I visited Medcan Australia in Southeast Queensland for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the country’s earliest licensed cannabis producers. After the tour, I sat down with co-founder and CCO Gareth Ball for a raw, in-the-moment chat about cultivation, product development, market pressure, and why Australia needs to back its own industry.From pheno-hunting wins (and fails) to research gaps, global comparisons, and the launch of Medcan’s new cultivar, Velvet Thunder. Whether you’re a patient, producer, or just passionate about homegrown cannabis, this episode is packed with deep insights, bold ideas, and that signature AusCanna curiosity.📍Recorded on-site in Southeast Queensland.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to [email protected]. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:42)* Who is Gareth Ball? (10:49)* The story behind Medcan Australia (12:02)* From pheno-hunting to products in patients’ hands… What’s the process? (18:15)* Do pheno hunts ever fail? (28:28)* There’s more to cannabis than THC, will the education ever catch up? (30:16)* The importance of gathering research (33:02)* Canadian market vs Australian market (38:05)* Buying weed from questionable sources (39:57)* The price of cannabis around the world (43:20)* Where is the global cannabis market going? (45:33)* Supporting Australian-grown cannabis first (46:27)* What’s next for Medcan? (50:16)* Exciting times ahead for the local industry (53:50)* Stigma, politics and legalisation (55:17)* Life is better with a little bit of cannabis (58:37)* Our reflections on swapping out pharmaceutical pills for cannabis (59:08)* Cannabis a first option, not a last option (62:23)* Gareth’s call to action (64:19)Show Notes:Where to Find Gareth Ball:* Gareth on LinkedIn* Medcan Australia LinkedIn* Medcan Australia Website* Email [email protected] to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Is CBD the missing link in IBS treatment?In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Chris Schneider and Rick Palesh — the minds behind SVG and the Genesis Study, a first-of-its-kind clinical trial investigating CBD’s potential to relieve pain caused by Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The study is currently under review and expected to be published in the coming months and the results could be a game-changer.We dig into the science, the unexpected findings (including a wild placebo effect), and what it really takes to push cannabis research forward in a clinical setting. From dosing dilemmas to regulatory hurdles, this is a rare behind-the-scenes look at the future of cannabinoid medicine and gut health.🎧 Whether you’re a patient looking for answers, a practitioner hungry for data, or just curious about the next frontier of cannabis research — this one’s for you.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email me at [email protected] — I love including questions from the community.💚 Like what I’m doing? You can support the podcast at buymeacoffee.com/auscannapodcast — every bit helps keep these conversations going!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:23)* Who are Dr. Chris Schneider and Rick Palesh? (19:13)* What is the Genesis study? (22:12)* Placebo Effect… It’s crazy strong! (23:56)* How did the Genesis study approach dosing? (30:10)* What were some of the biggest hurdles the Genesis study faced? (31:09)* Were there any regulatory roadblocks in conducting the clinical trial? (33:08)* Cannabinoid research is still evolving, was it difficult to get approval or funding? (34:19)* The challenges of translating research findings into real-world treatment options (35:21)* Will these results open the door to further research on CBD and gut health? (36:23)* Specific aspects of CBD’s effects on IBS that Dr. Schneider and Rick would like to investigate next (38:18)* Potential plans to expand research into other cannabinoids, such as CBG or CBN (40:14)* In an ideal world with unlimited resources, what would the next phase of SVG’s research look like? (42:33)* Advice for patients trying to navigate CBD on their own (45:17)* The edibles tangent (49:33)* The most underrated cannabinoid in terms of therapeutic potential (57:45)* The importance of paitent reported data (59:36)* Dr. Schneider and Rick’s call to action (61:39)Show Notes:Where to Find Dr. Chris Schneider and Rick Palesh:* SVG Website* Email [email protected] to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

This week, I’m joined by Churchill Fellow Tom Forrest, a sustainable grower, educator, and long-time cannabis advocate, for a wide-ranging chat about the future of cannabis cultivation in Australia.Tom isn’t just growing cannabis… He’s growing a movement! In this episode, we explore what pulled him toward plant medicine and why true sustainability in cannabis is about action, not optics.We get into everything from terroir and transparency to Reddit rabbit holes and sketchy spray packs. There’s talk of potency, perception, and yes, a few cheeky munchie stories too!Tom also shares his thoughts on the Cannatrek and Heyday merger, what it could signal for the Australian scene, and why a bit of industry stability might be exactly what we need to spark real innovation.If you're a grower, patient, or just curious about where your cannabis comes from…This one's for you!👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email me at [email protected] — I love including questions from the community.💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (1:46)* Who is Tom Forrest? (14:01)* What started Tom’s journey towards cannabis advocacy? (16:38)* Sneaky munchie moments (19:26)* The journey from cotton to cannabis (25:34)* What are some of the biggest misconceptions about the environmental impact of cannabis cultivation? (27:54)* Smoke and mirrors? We need to be able to tell OUR story (31:24)* Are there any significant differences in the potency or effects of cannabis grown with sustainable methods versus traditional methods? (37:03)* Terroir… It’s important! (37:50)* Excitement within cannabis breeding, we’re levelling up! (43:20)* Spray packs and other things that aren’t natural… We just don’t know (44:48)* More accountability… More carrots, fewer sticks (47:15)* Oh, Reddit, you’re wild (49:28)* Grow Zone Magazine (54:02)* Tom’s thoughts on the Cannatrek and Heyday merger, and what does that mean for Puro (59:02)* Stability breeds creativity (63:20)* Tom’s call to action (65:01)* Wise words from Thumper’s father (66:12)Where to find Tom Forrest:* @tomforrestcf on Instagram* Tom’s LinkedIn* Email [email protected]* Puro New Zealand Website* Grow Zone MagazineWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastShownotes:* Bialetti Moka Pot* Tom Forrest - Cannabis Cultivation - Findings of a Churchill Fellowship - Q&A (Entheogenesis Australis)* Steve Cantwell* Thumper’s Father’s wise words (Bambi) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What does it look like when a doctor helps rewrite a country’s cannabis laws? Dr. JC Scicluna- Medical & Global Business Development Consultant isn’t just treating patients — he’s shaping the future of cannabis in Europe. From Malta’s bold move into adult-use legalisation to the power of real-world data and global research gaps, this conversation dives deep into what happens when medicine, policy, and passion collide. No fluff, no half measures — just a raw, honest look at where cannabis is headed and why community still matters most.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (1:41)* Who is Dr. Scicluna? (7:28)* How did Dr. Scicluna and I meet? (10:37)* Malta’s cannabis legislation and Dr. Scicluna’s contribution (11:29)* Malta… Trailblazers in the EU on tight timelines (19:50)* How did Dr. Scicluna’s patients find him? (23:30)* Battling stigmas (26:17)* How does Europe compare to Australia in cannabis research? (27:50)* If Dr. Scicluna could run his own cannabis study, what would he focus on? (33:59)* Are there any specific cannabinoids, terpenes or flavonoids that deserve more attention? (37:51)* Real-world data… It’s important! (39:52)* Will pharmaceutical companies play a role in the cannabis market 10 years from now? (41:35)* Keep your eyes on the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) (43:07)* Could Malta’s approach be replicated here in Australia? (53:32)* The power (and safety) of consuming together (54:46)* The cannabis community LOVES to give back (57:14)* No half measures! (61:04)* Dr. Scicluna’s upcoming projects and events he’s excited to attend (64:05)* Dr. Scicluna key message… Never underestimate the work you're doing! (67:00)Where to find Dr. JC Scicluna:* Email [email protected] * Dr. JC Scicluna on LinkedIn* Dr. JC Scicluna’s WebsiteWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastShownotes:* Pastizz (Malta Street Food)* European Citizens' Initiative* International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

For years, the cannabis industry has been stuck in a potency arms race, chasing ever-higher THC percentages as if that’s the only measure of quality. But what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? What if moderate THC cultivars could actually provide a better, more sustainable experience for patients—without the downsides of ultra-potent cannabis?In this episode, I sit down with Camilo Cortissoz and Juan Angel from Green Shepherd, a company shaking up the industry by proving that balance matters more than brute strength. We unpack the science, patient experiences, and industry trends that show why chronic potency chasing might not be the future of cannabis after all.This episode will challenge what you think you know about cannabis and just might change the way you medicate.🎧 Hit play and join the conversation!👉 Have a rapid-fire question that’ll make my next guest stop and think? Submit yours now!💚 Want to support the podcast? The #AusCannaStorage CanGos are now available! Email me at [email protected] to grab yours!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (1:51)* The Story behind Green Shepherd (26:40)* Camilo shares his first experience with cannabis in Colombia vs Australia (27:59)* Juan shares a little about his childhood (30:45)* How did Juan and Camilo meet? (32:39)* Did they have the same dealer? (33:12)* Putting their skill set to better use (34:28)* Columbia’s rich cannabis history (37:48)* The difficulty finding quality plants with lower THC (42:59)* Is the industry as a whole too focused on high THC? (45:01)* What misconceptions do people have about moderate THC cultivars? (46:41)* How do we educate consumers and doctors about the value of balance rather than just strength? (49:42)* The importance of having options (53:03)* Why can’t we embrace the middy?? (57:53)* High THC over long periods- could it have negative effects that we don’t know about yet? (60:52)* The bucket analogy (62:50)* Is there a THC sweet spot? (67:17)* Where will Green Shepherd be in 5 years? (71:30)* Camilo’s parting words of wisdom (77:40)* Juan’s wise words about respect (78:43)Shownotes:* Sublime - Santeria* AC/DC - If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It)* LL Cool J - Mama Said Knock You Out* Analysis of Cannabis Seizures in NSW, Australia: Cannabis Potency and Cannabinoid ProfileWhere to find Green Shepherd:* Email [email protected]* Green Shepherd website* Juan Angel on LinkedIn* Camilo Cortissoz on LinkedInWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Sacha La Forgia, Co-Founder of Golden Days Cultivators, to explore his unique journey from winemaking and distilling to producing top-tier medicinal cannabis. With a background as a qualified grape grower and multiple international awards, Sacha brings an artisan’s touch to cultivation—focusing on quality, craft, and precision.His experience in fine wine and spirits has shaped the way he approaches cannabis, and in a rapidly evolving industry, his perspective offers something truly different. Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur, a patient looking to understand more about quality cultivation, or someone who loves hearing stories of passion and innovation, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire (1:27)* Who is Sacha? (15:19)* What’s been the biggest lesson from the wine industry that Sacha has applied to cannabis? (23:20)* If cannabis were treated like fine wine, would that change the way it’s sold and understood? (25:57)* What was the spark that started Golden Days Cultivators? (27:46)* The importance of taking your time and working through it (29:03)* Specific cultivation techniques Golden Days Cultivators swears by… Controlling your environment (31:04)* What defines “top-shelf” cannabis in Sacha’s opinion (33:24)* You don’t know until you try. It doesn’t matter if it’s dating or cannabis (36:05)* What role does sustainability play in Golden Days Cultivators’ growing methods? (38:47)* Water, is anything special going on there? (41:45)* Does Australian-grown cannabis have the potential to compete internationally? (45:33)* How will small craft cultivators play a role in shaping the future of the industry? (46:25)* Will we ever see cannabis with the same level of “connoisseurship” as fine wine? (49:42)* If Sacha could change one policy to improve consumer education, what would it be? (52:21)* What’s on the horizon for Golden Days Cultivators? (54:40)* Sacha’s call to action (57:32)Shownotes:* Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin’Where to Sacha:* Email [email protected]* @Sacha.LaFogia on Instagram* Sacha on LinkedIn* Golden Days Cultivators on LinkedInWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode, I sit down with Dane Herbst—better known as Boof—the mastermind behind CannaBudGrow’s premium medicinal cannabis. As Head of Cultivation, Dane isn’t just growing plants; he’s shaping an industry, setting new quality standards, and ensuring patients get the best medicine possible. We talk about cultivation challenges, global cannabis markets, and what it takes to thrive in an evolving space. Plus, as always I put Dane in the hot seat with some wild rapid-fire questions!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire (1:30)* Who is Dane Herbst (6:35)* Where did Dane’s cannabis journey start(7:43)* Challenges of growing cannabis in South Africa for a pharmaceutical market (9:08)* The fine art of consistency (12:07)* Why a hydro setup vs soil setup (13:40)* Was it more difficult to first set up in South Africa or enter the Australian market? (15:17)* Differences between what patients want in South Africa vs Australia (17:15)* Eco-friendly farming practices (20:36)* Surprising challenges along the way (23:59)* Cannabis conversations out in the wild and with family (25:55)* Boundry pushing ideas (31:26)* Green (Legacy) genetics (33:33)* Rethinking how to start “fresh” (37:00)* CannaBudGrow’s plans for 2025 (39:53)* Dane’s call to action (41:48)Where to Dane:* Email [email protected]* @boof_enshmirtz on InstagramWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

I’m back for Season 3! Kicking things off with a bang, I’m sitting down with Brian Bain—an industry heavyweight with over 20 years in cannabis and 12 years in innovative agriculture. As CEO and Founder of Mother Labs, Brian has been at the forefront of genetic development, shaping some of the most exciting cultivars on the market today.In this episode, we dive into the art and science of breeding top-tier genetics, the journey that led him here, and because you know I don’t do surface-level chats I put Brian on the spot by asking him about the discontinuation of one of my favourite cultivars, Miss Kim!If you’re passionate about cannabis, innovation, or just love a damn good origin story, this is one you don’t want to miss.We cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire (1:54)* Who is Brian Bain (11:36)* The need for seeds and how it’s blossomed (13:23)* What does Brian look for when starting a pheno hunt (17:01)* Flawless Victory… 5 years and 45 seeds (18:18)* What is a Tissue Culture? (19:04)* Is there a difference between what the medical market wants vs what the adult-use market? (21:33)* Terpinolene and Ocimene are the perfect combination… for us (22:37)* The need to diversify (23:14)* If we could talk to doctors about improving the quality of life without the stigma (26:57)* Lessons Australia can learn from the early days of Canada’s medical market (30:23)* We owe a lot to BC bud (31:24)* A cannabis rotation is like a top 100 playlist (39:24)* Renaming of cultivars and the need to be truthful (42:21)* Respect for the underground/closet growers (46:31)* The importance of love and playing the long game (48:28)* What is Mother Labs working on in 2025? (49:32)* Shameless… #SavingMissKim (50:26)* Brian’s parting nugget of information (55:14)Show Notes:* Mother Labs WebsiteWhere to find Brian:* Email [email protected]* Brian on LinkedIn* @Motherlabs on InstagramWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

2024 was a year of growth, connection, and unforgettable moments for the AusCannaPodcast! From rapid-fire questions that sparked laughter and deep insights to the immersive “On The Road” series that brought you closer to the cannabis community, this episode looks back at the highlights from my first two seasons. From listener favourites to a recap of the most downloaded episodes, join me as I reflect on an incredible year and set the stage for what’s to come in 2025.In this episode:* Mitch’s deep dive* Adam’s thoughts on transparency* Liz’s thoughts on CoA’s* The most downloaded episode* Looking forward to 2025Where to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this fun and fast-paced cross-collaboration episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Andrew Dowling and Mitch Kurz from Phytoca for a lively chat that’s anything but business as usual.Andrew, a passionate advocate for cannabis legalization, brings a sharp perspective to the tricky intersection of law, policy, and alternative medicine. Mitch, the entrepreneurial force behind Phytoca, is leading the charge in medicinal cannabis and breaking new ground with emerging therapies like psilocybin and MDMA.Beyond their work at Phytoca, Andrew and Mitch co-host the AltMed Podcast, where they dive into the transformative world of natural therapies, especially medicinal cannabis. With over 115 episodes under their belt, they’ve mastered the art of blending education with a good dose of humor and curiosity.This episode is full of laughs, surprising insights, and a rapid-fire round you won’t want to miss. It’s a refreshing detour from the usual format and one that’s guaranteed to keep you entertained!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Christina’s background and why she started writing reviews* We love your work… crickets* AusCannaReviews long term goals* Why Andrew and Mitch began the AltMed podcast* How does Christina pick her flowers* How to maximize terpene effects* Nothing leftover vs A little here and there consumption methods* Vaping vs Combustion * Thoughts around Edibles* Mitch asks the one question EVERYONE wants to know…Show Notes:* Samurai Pizza CatsWhere to find Andrew and Mitch:* AltMed on YouTube* AltMed on Spotify* AltMed on Apple Podcast* AltMed on LinkedIn* AltMed on Facebook* AltMed on Twitter/X* AltMed on TikTokWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world. In this episode:* What’s Up? (0.40)* Victoria’s drug driving changes (3:45)* Medicinal cannabis sales booming (4:50)* Health bodies call for end to SAS-B (7:50)* Green’s Legalisation bill fails (12:20)* What can we expect from Trump? (15:40)* MP Craig Garland fails roadside test (19:20)* Highly Reflective (22:00)* Our lovely listeners* Driving laws* The Queensland LNP* Thailand* Fiona Patten* DispensedShow Notes:Where to find Christina:@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] to find Paul:Visit www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] $10 off accessories with the code ‘CATCHUP’ at giveandtoke.com.au This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Michael Sassano, CEO and Chairman of SOMAI Pharmaceuticals, to explore the cutting-edge innovations driving the pharmaceutical cannabis industry. Michael shares insights on SOMAI’s state-of-the-art EU-GMP facility, the company’s sustainable production practices, and the exciting opportunities in emerging markets like Germany, Spain, and Australia.From overcoming industry challenges to envisioning the global future of medical cannabis, Michael offers a wealth of knowledge, passion, and inspiration. Whether you’re a cannabis advocate, an industry insider, or simply curious, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Michael Sassano* What drew Michael into the industry* SOMAI’s vision from the start* Michael’s thoughts on cannabis legalization in the USA* SOMAI’s extraction programs… Nano emulsions come back?* The lack of education and research on medical cannabis* Challenges in balancing compliance and innovation in a tightly regulated industry* The rapidly growing global medical cannabis industry* What’s special about Germany* What’s the medical cannabis scene like in Portugal* Misconceptions encountered in the pharmaceutical cannabis industry* If global legalization happened overnight would that change SOMAI’s trajectory* SOMAI’s cultivation vision* Equal flower love for everyone* Extraction vs Cultivation setups* Plants are like children* SOMAI Pharmaceuticals’s long-term vision in terms of innovation and market reach* What country could be the next to embrace medical cannabis?* Will we ever have a cannabis impairment test?* Where will the global cannabis industry be in 10 years, and what role will SOMAI play in shaping that future?* Michael’s call to actionShow Notes:* Impairment Vs Presence of Cannabis: The International Cannabis Driving Debate ContinuesWhere to find Michael:* Instagram* LinkedIn* Facebook* Twitter/X* TikTok Where to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this "On the Road" episode, I sit down with Adam Carvalho, Production Manager with Australian Natural Therapeutics Group (ANTG) whose path from the restaurant world to cannabis production is as surprising as it is inspiring. In this episode, we dive into stories of Humboldt County and memories from Eve Farms, uncovering the challenges and triumphs Adam has faced entering the Australian cannabis space. With behind-the-scenes insights, vibrant discussions, and a look at what’s next for ANTG, this episode is packed with the kind of detail that brings the world of cannabis production to life.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Adam Carvalho* From pizza to cannabis * Life in Humboldt County * Memories at Eve Farms* Soap Box to buy in and the importance of learning every day* Biggest challenge moving into the Australian cannabis space* Armidale facility vs Brisbane facility * Australian market vs European market* Thought on Canadian cannabis imports* Colour-coded labels… The more you know!* The importance of a recent Certificate of Analyst (COA)* Exciting new products coming in the new year* Shout out to the Research and Development crew!* One thing Adam and his team are most proud of this year* Adam’s call to actionShow Notes:Where to find Adam:* ANTG on Instagram* ANTG on LinkedIn* ANTG on Facebook* ANTG on Twitter/X* ANTG Website: www.antg.com.auWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastWhere to find the best pizza in San Francisco:* Tony’s Pizza NapoletanaMore information about:Waldo on Weed This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina meet monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and worldwide. In this episode:Kamala Harris and federal legalisation (1:55)Cannabis users skipping work (5:00)The Dispensed Dilemma (7:30)Releaf in trouble? (19:30)New compounding rules (23:00)Roadside testing in South Australia (27:00)Hot Tokes (33:00)What’s Up (40:00)Show Notes:Where to find Christina:@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] to find Paul:Visit www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] $10 off accessories with the code ‘CATCHUP’ at giveandtoke.com.au This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Melanie Wentzel, a healthcare strategist, cannabis professional, and author of the upcoming book Cannabis Queens. Set to launch this December at MJBizCon, Cannabis Queens brings to life the stories of influential women shaping the cannabis industry across the globe.Join me as Melanie shares what inspired her to write the book, some of the surprising insights she discovered during her research, and why it's so important to amplify women's voices in cannabis. Whether you're curious about the upcoming book launch or just want to get to know Melanie, this episode is packed with inspiration, knowledge, and plenty of fun.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Melanie Wentzel* What it was like doing a presentation on cannabis to royalty * What inspired Melanie to write Cannabis Queens* The importance of bringing the women’s stories to life* A couple of things that Melanie learned while writing Cannabis Queens* Collecting worldwide perspectives for the book* Put this on a Post-it… We can be competitors but still a part of a community! * What role do women have in the future of the cannabis industry?* Equitable approaches to business as tools used to achieve the opportunity of outcome (Social Equity Programs)* Some shocking stats in the book* MJBizCon 2024 and the Cannabis Queens book launch * What’s next for Melanie* Self-care via hunting aliens* Melanie’s call of actionShow Notes:Where to find Melanie:* Email [email protected]* Website: www.melaniewentzel.comWhere to find Cannabis Queens:* Cannabis Queens on LinkedIn* Cannabis Queens on Instagram* Where to buy the book www.cannabisqueens.world Where to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastWhere to find Moo Deng the baby hippo?* ABC Video* Guardian Australia Video This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this “On the Road” episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Liz Warburton, a qualified naturopath and seasoned cannabis expert with a wealth of experience in the industry. Liz opens up about her journey of using cannabis to manage ADHD and insomnia from the age of 13, and how that early experience shaped her holistic approach to health and wellness.Drawing on her time managing operations at a high-volume dispensary and working as a product manager, Liz offers valuable industry insights. She also passionately advocates for the medicinal value of concentrates, discussing why healthcare professionals should take a closer look at this often misunderstood form of cannabis.With a blend of expert insights and lighthearted rapid-fire questions, this episode delivers an engaging exploration of the future of cannabis medicine and patient education. Whether you're a healthcare provider, a patient, or just curious about cannabis, you’ll walk away with plenty of knowledge and inspiration from this conversation.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Liz Warburton* Life at Brisbane Compounding Pharmacy (BCP)* The early challenges of dispensing* Cannabis categories and pharmacy storage logistics * Liz’s love of Concentrates* Montreal’s cobble streets are no joke!* Just because you can do more, doesn’t mean you will do more* How to consume Concentrates* How Liz navigates conversations with doctors about Concentrates* Could Australia move towards an adult-use flower market and a medicinal-use concentrates market? * Terpenes and Concentrates* COAs… What to look for* Liz’s bush (outdoor) vs hydro (indoor) theory * CBG love* How do we change the narrative so there are more minor cannabinoids on the market?* The importance of journaling * Where does Liz think the industry is going in the next few years* Liz’s parting words of wisdom Show Notes:Where to find Liz:* Email [email protected]* Liz on LinkedIn* Nativa Consulting WebsiteWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this special On The Road episode recorded in Melbourne, I sit down with Adam Isaac Miller, a pioneer in the Australian cannabis industry. With nearly a decade of experience, Adam has been a key figure in educating individuals and organizations about the ever-evolving cannabis market. He’s also the founder of Insiders Extract, a popular cannabis newsletter with over 12,000 subscribers.We dive deep into Adam’s lifelong connection with cannabis, how the plant has shaped his life even before birth, and how his relationship with it has evolved over the years. Together, we explore cannabis diversity, how to navigate conversations with outdated misconceptions, and why cannabis should be considered a first-line treatment. Adam also shares his thoughts on the advantages of the medical cannabis route, the power of journaling, and emerging worldwide trends in cannabis. Don’t miss this insightful conversation, packed with valuable perspectives on cannabis as a growing industry and as a powerful tool for patients.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Adam Isaac Miller* How cannabis has always been a part of his life, even before he was born* How one’s relationship with cannabis changes over the years * Cannabis diversity * How to navigate cannabis conversations with outdated misconceptions* Cannabis as a first-line treatment * You don’t know until you try * The power of journaling* How big is the cannabis market* The long wait for a regulated market* Laredo tangent* Emerging worldwide trends* Experiences with CBN* Canadian cannabis vs Australian cannabis vs American cannabis* The advantage of going medical* Insiders Extract Newsletter* The importance of having a rotation and a 6th man* Adam’s call to actionShow Notes:* Adam’s Website and Newsletter Where to find Adam:* Adam on LinkedIn* @insight_adam on InstagramWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world. In this episode:Ukraine legalises medicinal cannabis (2:40)Offensive odours (4:30)Dispensed founder banned (7:00)Is weed causing a booze sales slump? (13:00)Fiona Patten Returns (15:30)Singapore man frames wife with cannabis (17:45)Child and teen use drops in the US (19:40)Cannabis aromas: more than terpenes (22:15)RIP nano-emulsions (24:20)What’s Up? (31:50)Show Notes:Get $10 off accessories with the code ‘CATCHUP’ at giveandtoke.com.auWhere to find Christina:@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] to find Paul:Visit www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In Season 2, Episode 3 of the AusCannaPodcast I sit down with Eric Chan the Chief Operating Officer at Cannabis Warehouse. Born and raised in Melbourne to immigrant parents from Hong Kong Eric seemed destined to follow a traditional corporate path until the birth of his first child at 26 shifted his focus towards healthcare. Along with the team at Cannabis Warehouse Eric has played a pivotal role in bringing the AMCA’s Compassionate Access Scheme AKA the “COMPASS Program” to life. With a passion for building a stronger medicinal cannabis framework, Eric envisions a future where Australia leads the world in integrating both legacy and medical cannabis industries.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Eric Chan and how becoming a father changed his life path* Meeting Dima Gouralnik leads to Cannabis Warehouse * COMPASS Program's humble beginnings* The power of collaboration* Challenges during the 6-month pilot phase* Launching into phase 1* How to apply for the COMPASS Program* Assessment process/Different levels of access* Risk mitigation/Managing expectations* Success stories * Long-term goals of the COMPASS program* How the COMPASS Program is helping break the stigma and shoutouts to the OnTracka team * Remembering your “why”* Being on the right side of history* Eric’s call to actionShow Notes:* Australian Medicinal Cannabis Association (AMCA) COMPASS Program Website* OnTracka WebsiteWhere to find Eric:* Cannabis Warehouse Website* Email [email protected] to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

This episode was recorded live at Mull Cafe in St. Kilda on Saturday 24th August. The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world.In this episode:Teens and Gummies (1:00)Online Dealers (3:40)Jersey cops fired for smoking (5:10)Australian Exports (6:30)Victoria Compassion Club fined $3.2m (8:00)Philippines legalisation? (10:15)Eric Chan talks compassionate access (11:45)Live Quiz (26:30)Hot Tokes (30:35)What’s Up? (33:00)Show Notes:Learn more about Compass at www.ausmca.orgShop Give & Toke accessories at giveandtoke.com.au - use ‘CATCHUP’ at checkout for $10 off your purchase.Where to find Christina:@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] to find Paul:Visit www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In Season 2, Episode 2 of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Jessica Peros, co-owner of The Green Room Hydro, one of the East Coast’s largest hydroponic retailers. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with personal stories and professional insights. And remember, if you have rapid-fire questions, email them in for a chance to get a shout-out and an AusCanna sticker pack!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Jessica Peros?* Her journey into the cannabis industry and how The Green Room Hydro came to be* How does she see the relationship between the green (legacy) market and legal cannabis industries evolving?* The power of CBD* What are some emerging trends she’s seeing with patients and doctors?* Edibles and Concentrates* Experiences, Expectations, Education * How she speaks to her children about cannabis* Being her authentic self and motherhood* Women and Cannabis* Jessica’s Call to ActionWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastWhere to find Jessica:* The Green Room Hydro Website* @TheGreenRoom_Hydro on Instagram* The Green Room Hydroponics and Organics on Facebook * @TheGreenRoomHydro in TikTok This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In the Season 2 premiere of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with the incredible Alice Davy. Alice, a neurodivergent single mother of two young boys, navigates life with stage 4 Endometriosis and Multiple Sclerosis while being a fervent advocate for cannabis reform and women’s and children’s health. As an active member of the Let Patients Drive campaign in Victoria, she works tirelessly to address the impact of current driving laws on medicinal cannabis patients.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire Questions* Who is Alice Davy?* Saying yes to being an advocate* Let Patients Drive Campaign* When did she realize medicinal cannabis was working for her?* Price of Cannabis* Accessibility and setbacks* How do we bring change? Raise awareness? * There’s room for everyone, being open to constructive conversations* How to handle the hate and where to put your energy* balance and boundaries over time* Sports (being active) and its impact on mental health* Alice’s Call to ActionWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastWhere to find Alice:* @_aliceinendoland on InstagramShow Notes:* Let Patients Drive Campaign This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Episode Description:Shop Give & Toke accessories at giveandtoke.com.au - use ‘CATCHUP’ at checkout for $10 off your purchase.The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world. In this episode:Quick Thailand Update (0:40)Stronger regulations on Australian Cannabis (1:35)Snoop Dogg’s Dispensary (9:10)$42 Million Raid in Queensland (11:35)Labour Youth push for legalisation in NSW (13:40)It’s Science: CBG (17:30)It’s Science: Arthritis (19:00)Compassionate Access (21:15)Celebrity Weed (23:40)What’s Up? (25:30)Where to find:@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Nguyen, an Australian-trained pharmacist and visionary founder and CEO of Astrid, Australia’s first boutique female-led dispensary specializing in medicinal cannabis, with a mission to destigmatize cannabis and provide patient-focused care. Under Lisa’s leadership, Astrid has become a multi-award-winning dispensary, recognized by the Australian Cannabis Awards, Melbourne Design Awards, and Cannabiz. Lisa herself has been honoured as Australia’s most Trailblazing Pharmacist and a CommBank Young Hero. Beyond Astrid, she is passionate about cannabinoid education and research, collaborating with various organizations and serving as an advisor for several research projects.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire* Who is Lisa Nguyen?* How did she get started in plant medicine?* What sparked the idea for Astrid?* How did she manage to navigate the regulatory landscape when starting Astrid?* How does she see the relationship between plant-based medicine and pharmaceuticals evolving?* What’s her approach to managing patient expectations?* How does she address scepticism from traditional healthcare providers?* Success stories from patients that stand out to her* Driving Forward Campaign* Driving laws and how she feels about them post-campaign* Anti Stoner Campaign* What’s next for Lisa and Astrid?Where to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastWhere to find Lisa:* Astrid Dispensary Website* Astrid Dispensary on Instagram* Astrid Dispensary on Facebook* Astrid Advocates Website This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Episode DescriptionShop Give & Toke accessories at giveandtoke.com.au - use ‘CATCHUP’ at checkout for $4.20 off your purchase.The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world. In this episode:Aus Senate rejects adult use cannabis (0:30)South Africa Legalises (2:30)Jamie Rickord bails (4:30)An eye on Thailand (8:45)German Police’s pro-cannabis plea (10:00)Cannabis legality around Australia  (13:00)Hot Tokes (23:00)What’s Up (25:00)Where to find Christina:@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] to find Paul:Visit www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this compelling episode, I sit down with Alex Mitchell, the inspiring host of the Invisible Iconic Podcast and the innovative Founder of Invisible Iconic and Endo Circle. These two impactful small businesses are dedicated to providing educational resources and events for those dealing with chronic illnesses.Alex opens up about her journey, shedding light on her four-year experience as a legal medical cannabis patient. Alex's story is nothing short of inspiring, from her battles and victories with chronic illnesses to steering businesses that create a positive impact.We cover a lot of topics in this episode including:* Who is Alex?* When did she start to realize cannabis was helping her medicinally? * What’s an average day for her like with chronic illness?* Getting her quality of life back* The biggest misconception about being a medicinal cannabis patient* Cannabis as a tool, not a cure* Family acceptance* Where did the name “Invisible Iconic” come from?* What sparked the idea of the Invisible Iconic Podcast?* What are some of her favourite podcasts?* Endo Webinars and what’s to come* Endo Circle Support Group * Endo Sister Support SessionsWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastWhere to find Alex:* @invisibleconic on Instagram* @invisiblecanna on Instagram* invisibleiconic.com Show Notes:EVENTS:VIRTUAL ENDO CIRCLE - 'Not Endo: Comorbidities & Multidisciplinary Care', Saturday 15 June on ZoomSYDNEY ENDO CIRCLE - 'Self-Advocacy: How to talk to your doctor without being gaslit' - Monday 17 June at Crosstalk Records, Leichardt AND virtual on Zoom by Buymeacoffee donation WEBINAR RE-RUN - 'Not Endo: Comorbidities & Multidisciplinary Care', 29 JuneCANNA RESOURCES:The Scratch & Sniff Book of Weed ENDO RESOURCES:Good Girl, Bad Period: Breaking the Silence on Misogyny and Gaslighting through the Lens of Endometriosis by Silvia Young featuring two interviews with Alexandra Mitchell The ABCs of Extrapelvic Endo by Extrapelvic Not Rare THE INVISIBLE ICONIC PODCAST:Episode Catalogue This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Give & Toke accessories out now at giveandtoke.com.au - Use code ‘CATCHUP’ at checkout for $4.20 off your purchase. Expires May 31st. Australia only.The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world. In this episode:* 420 arrests in Melbourne (3:30)* Dolphins and Alternaleaf (5:25)* Thailand’s Cannabis U-Turn (7:30)* Paid Prescribing (11:00)* Delayed Driving Trial (14:40)* Enemies of legalisation (17:00)* US rescheduling cannabis? (20:30)Where to find Christina:@AusCannaReviews on SubStack, Instagram and Twitter/XEmail [email protected] to find Paul:Visit www.giveandtoke.com.auFollow @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this podcast, I'm chatting with Genevieve Newton, the Head Grower extraordinaire at Stewart Farms, who is making waves and blazing trails in the cannabis scene. Her fire for cultivating top-notch, award-winning medicinal cannabis is evident in every move she makes, most of which she openly shares on various social media platforms. We cover a lot of topics in this episode including:* Who is Genevieve?* Navigating stigmas around cannabis* What sparked the idea to start growing cannabis?* Thoughts around home grow* Genevieve’s breeding heroes* Toxicity within the industry and feeling the need to lead two different lives* The most common educational issues with medicinal cannabis* Terpene science for better outcomes* Eureka moments while growing* Indoor vs Outdoor growing advantages and disadvantages * Integrated Pest Management* Good Manufacturing Practice* Thoughts around irradiation * Britney dies, so that bananas can riseWhere to find Genevieve:* Genevieve Newton on Linkedin* @missnewtygrows on Instagram* @genevieveeatsweed6967 on YoutubeWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastOther amazing women on Instagram providing kick-ass content:* Miss Rad Reefer* Riley (Cannabichem)* Miyabe Shields This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this podcast, I chat with Collecting Terps an Australian medicinal cannabis patient and avid flower reviewer. The conversation is raw and real between two patients as we discuss the flaws within the system and things we wish we could improve. We cover a lot of topics in this episode including:* His personal story and why he started his Instagram* How he does his reviews* Black Market vs Medical Market* Instagram pushback and the importance of backing up your information* Clinics/Scripts/Out of Stock * The cost of cannabis * Black Market behaviour* More Aussie-grown flower* Harsh comedownsWhere to find Collecting Terps:* @CollectingTerps on InstagramWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Episode DescriptionONLY A FEW TICKETS LEFT TO BUDS N BOWLS 2024 - BUY TICKETS AT budsnbowls.com.auThe Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world. In this episode:* What’s New (0:30)* Contaminated Cannabis Imports (2:00)* Vaping Discrimination (4:00)* Boring Stoners (5:00)* False Positives on Roadside Tests (7:30)* Cognitive Decline (10:30)* Women in Weed (12:00)* Tolerance Breaks Revisited (14:30)* Cannabis Gatekeeping (19:00)* What’s Happening (27:30)New Stories:Imported medicinal cannabis sold without testing for Australian standards, industry warns. (ABC Central Victoria)Epilepsy patient Khali Peek calls for exemptions for medicinal cannabis in smoke-free areas (ABC Radio Brisbane)Like Germany, the UK should legalise weed – but I wish we could criminalise boring stoners (Independent) Adelaide driver disputes loss of licence following drug test proving he was not under the influence (ABC Adelaide)Cannabis Use Linked to Lower Dementia Risk (Neuroscience News)Having women in leadership roles isn’t just good for business – it’s good for patients too (Cannabiz)@AusCannaReviews on SubStack@AusCannaReviews on Instagram@AusCannaReviews on Twitter/XEmail [email protected] @giveandtoke on InstagramEmail [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this podcast, recorded on International Women’s Day, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Jim Connell, the Chief Medical Officer and Founder of Heyday Medical. With his expertise as a seasoned medical cannabis prescriber, Dr. Connell adds a fascinating dimension to our conversation. We cover an array of topics including:* His personal story and why he started Heyday Medical* The importance of using the endocannabinoid system as the lens through which cannabis medicine is applied* How to find your optimal dose of cannabis (Sit with it)* Utilising minor cannabinoids to optimise results, more THC doesn’t mean more effective* Endometriosis as an example for crafting a personalised treatment plan with cannabis* Tolerance * Indoor vs Outdoor cultivation* Post-harvest processing* Live-cured vs freeze-dried Where to find Dr Connell:* Heyday Medical* Hey Dr Jim Podcast* The GP Show: #159 Medicinal Cannabis with Dr Jim Connell* Cracking Addiction Podcast: Medicinal Cannabis Today: Indications and Evidence Pt1Where to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastShow Notes:* CannMed Coffee Talk: The Therapeutic Potential of Minor Cannabinoids * ACS Publications: Minor, Nonterpenoid Volatile Compounds Drive the Aroma Differences of Exotic Cannabis* ACS Publications: Identification of a New Family of Prenylated Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Cannabis Revealed by Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

On this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with CitrusQuest, a patient whose recently started working in the Australian medicinal cannabis industry. We cover a lot of topics in this episode including:* CitrusQuest’s medical cannabis journey * The importance of keeping a journal* Reddit* Where is CitrusQuest now?* Australian medical cannabis flower quality * The importance of training your nose* And many more!Where to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email [email protected]* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastWhere to find CitrusQuest:* CitrusQuest on RedditShow Notes:* Terence Mckenna https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terence_McKenna* Aroma wheel: Cambium Analytica Hypermetrics pt. 1:Developing a Modern Cannabis Aroma Lexiconhttps://www.cambiumanalytica.com/resources/publications/cambium-analytica-hypermetrics-pt-1* The Nose Knows: Aroma, but Not THC Mediates the Subjective Effects of Smoked and Vaporized Cannabis Flowerhttps://www.mdpi.com/2813-1851/1/2/8* VSCs: Identification of a New Family of Prenylated Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Cannabis Revealed by Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatographyhttps://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.1c04196* Monoterpenes cross the BBB in mice: Mouse brain concentrations of α-pinene, limonene, linalool, and 1,8-cineole following inhalationhttps://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ffj.3342 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com