The Cole Memo

Illinois cannabis law has changed. This short video breaks the changes down at a high level. Read full show notes and watch video version here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/16/e310/

Illinois is moving forward with several significant cannabis policy changes. Adult-use dispensaries will soon be able to apply for licenses to serve medical cannabis patients, while newly proposed rules from the Illinois Department of Agriculture would allow licensed cultivation centers and craft growers to grow cannabis outdoors under specific conditions. Cole breaks down both developments, including what dispensaries would need to do to obtain a medical license, why outdoor cultivation has been a years-long issue in Illinois, and the state's proposal to limit outdoor-grown cannabis to extraction. Plus, a rare glimpse inside Illinois' Bureau of Cannabis Testing laboratory. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/14/e309/

Cole Preston discusses several developing cannabis policy stories, including the use of Flock cameras to track cannabis consumers traveling between states, a federal proposal to preserve hemp-derived THC beverages, and the continuing debate over how cannabis should be regulated and sold. The conversation also covers Michigan cannabis taxes, Virginia’s withdrawn marijuana-impaired driving PSA, the future of federal hemp policy, and what a potential federal delay could mean for Illinois as the state prepares for its own hemp law changes. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/14/e308/

Cole is joined by cannabis advocates Brian Dombrowski and Annie Romelfanger for a spirited conversation about hemp, medical cannabis, federal decriminalization, and the increasingly blurry distinction between "hemp" and "marijuana." They discuss the impact of the 2018 Farm Bill, THCA flower, synthetic and converted cannabinoids, industrial hemp, medical cannabis, and whether the industry needs clearer definitions or fewer of them altogether. Later, Brian sticks around to discuss the latest federal effort to delay restrictions on hemp products, what regulations could come next, and developments in Texas and Illinois. Miggy and Guap also join the conversation to discuss cannabis access, medical programs, dosage limits, consumer protections, and what a truly descheduled cannabis market might eventually look like. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/14/e307/

Independent candidate for Illinois governor Collin Corbett joins The Cole Memo to discuss why he is running outside the two major parties, the challenges independent candidates face, and how he believes an independent governor could work with lawmakers in Springfield. Corbett also shares his positions on Illinois cannabis policy and home grow, government transparency and ethics reform, campaign finance, affordability and property taxes, mass surveillance and privacy, DCFS, and his broader effort to build an independent political movement in Illinois. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/07/e306/

Phil returns to The Cole Memo for a wide-ranging conversation about cannabis policy from a consumer perspective. We discuss Illinois’ newly passed cannabis omnibus, questions surrounding dispensary ownership caps and consolidation, continued restrictions on home grow, cannabis possession limits, and whether the latest reforms actually do enough for consumers. We also discuss the uncertain future of hemp, THC beverages entering mainstream retailers and venues, cannabis surveillance, Michigan’s market, and what the next cannabis policy fight in Illinois might look like. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/07/e305/

This week, I recap several major cannabis developments, including the end of the month-long Ascend Wellness workers' strike, new Illinois medical cannabis changes taking effect this fall, and the latest federal developments surrounding the proposed hemp crackdown. I also discuss the Senate's effort to delay the federal hemp ban, the Illinois Attorney General's support for preserving the current timeline, and what these competing efforts could mean for consumers, businesses, and cannabis policy moving forward. I also share my perspective on the broader hemp debate, why I believe criminalization remains the central issue, and whether age-gated, tested, and accurately labeled cannabis products should be regulated rather than banned. Plus, I wrap up the live show by taking audience questions, discussing home grow, future guests, and plans for a Cole Memo community pizza meetup. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/04/e304/

Cole is joined by Florida cannabis advocate Evan Bentz for an in-depth conversation comparing Florida and Illinois cannabis policy. They discuss Florida's medical cannabis program, the failed Amendment 3 campaign, why home grow remains off the table, and how limited licensing has shaped both states' markets. Along the way, they examine patient access, corporate consolidation, product testing, delivery, and the challenges facing consumers in highly regulated cannabis systems. The conversation also explores hemp products, THC beverages, dose limits, terpene science, and the ongoing debate over what cannabis policy should prioritize. Whether you're interested in Florida's future or looking at how other legalization states have evolved, this episode offers a thoughtful discussion on where cannabis policy stands today and where it may be headed next. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/04/e303/

This week, I react to the disturbing discovery of a hidden camera inside an Illinois dispensary restroom before diving into a broader discussion about Illinois cannabis policy. I also share an update on the state's cannabis seed tracking system, discuss why home grow remains illegal for most adults, and explore questions surrounding dispensary ownership limits and management agreements in Illinois. Plus, I cover the anniversary of Ashley's Law, discuss Emmett Till Day in Illinois, highlight recent cannabis industry developments, react to a troubling psilocybin incident involving children at a summer camp, and answer live audience questions throughout the broadcast. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/04/e302/

For more than six years, Chicago Tribune reporter Robert McCoppin has documented the evolution of Illinois' cannabis industry, from the earliest legalization debates to today's fights over home grow, market concentration, ownership transparency, hemp, and continued criminalization. In this episode, Robert joins me to reflect on the stories behind the headlines and what he's learned covering one of the state's most consequential policy changes. We discuss campaign contributions during legalization, limited licensing, why Illinois remains one of the nation's most expensive cannabis markets, the ongoing debate over home cultivation, cannabis seed sales, public access to ownership records, management agreements, hemp regulation, and whether Illinois has lived up to its promises of social equity. If you've followed Illinois cannabis over the past six years, this conversation offers an inside look at how one of the state's leading reporters has covered it all. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/07/21/e301/

Damian Fagon, policy director at the Parabola Center for Law and Policy, joins the show to discuss a new analysis of Illinois' cannabis market and the structural advantages held by large multi-state operators and incumbent medical cannabis companies. We discuss market concentration, cultivation capacity, vertical integration, management agreements, consumer choice, and why hundreds of cannabis brands may create an illusion of competition. Damian also discusses continued cannabis arrests after legalization, the role of corporate influence in cannabis policy, New York's approach to legalization, and why he believes states must put consumers, small businesses, and civil liberties ahead of commercialization. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/07/08/e300/

Dr. Eric Lee returns to The Cole Memo to discuss major changes facing Oregon's legal psilocybin program. Lee explains how rising licensing fees could push operators out of the industry, why legal psilocybin sessions remain unaffordable for many people, and how his clinic is working to keep services accessible. Cole and Dr. Lee also discuss the challenges of building a legal psychedelic industry, Oregon's limited testing infrastructure, comparisons to Colorado and ketamine treatment, and the long-term future of psilocybin access. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/07/08/e299/

J.B. Pritzker, the Governor of Illinois, has officially signed Illinois' latest cannabis omnibus bill into law, marking one of the biggest updates to the state's cannabis regulations since adult-use legalization. In this episode, we livestream the signing ceremony from Sway Dispensary, break down the bill's major provisions, and hear directly from Governor J.B. Pritzker, social equity operators, patient advocates, physicians, and industry leaders about what the legislation is intended to accomplish. After the ceremony, journalist Brad Spirrison joins the show to discuss the cannabis questions he asked the governor, including what changes could still be made to Illinois' cannabis program and questions surrounding enforcement of the state's new hemp restrictions. We also answer viewer questions about medical cannabis access, implementation timelines, hemp beverages, home grow, and the future of cannabis policy in Illinois. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/07/02/e298/

Illinois law has allowed qualifying medical cannabis patients to purchase cannabis seeds from licensed dispensaries since adult-use legalization took effect, but six years later, patients still can't buy them. In this episode, Cole Preston revisits reporting dating back to 2020, examines a 2022 response from state officials identifying Illinois' seed-to-sale software as a potential obstacle, and asks whether that technical limitation still exists after the state's transition to a new tracking system. Cole also explores why this question has become more important following Illinois' latest cannabis law changes, which are expected to significantly restrict access to cannabis seeds through traditional retail and online hemp channels. He breaks down what the law says, what state agencies have told him, what they have not answered, and why transparency on this issue matters for Illinois home growers. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/07/02/e297/

The federal cannabis rescheduling hearings are underway, and this episode breaks down the biggest developments from the first two days. We cover testimony from DEA and FDA officials, arguments over the government's shift from a five-part to a two-part medical use test, and reactions from opponents of the proposed move to Schedule III. We also discuss what the hearings do and do not address, including why the proceedings focus on regulation rather than legalization. Plus, we look at the U.S. Supreme Court's recent gun rights ruling for cannabis consumers and how that decision is already influencing other cases, including potential implications for Illinois. As always, you'll find links to the original reporting and sources discussed throughout the episode. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/30/e296/

Cole sits down with striking workers and representatives from Teamsters Local 916 to discuss the ongoing labor dispute at Ascend Wellness' cultivation facility in Barry, Illinois. They explain why more than 300 workers walked off the job, outline their concerns over wages, health care, overtime, workplace safety, and contract negotiations, and respond directly to portions of Ascend's public statement. The conversation also explores what the strike could mean for Illinois' cannabis supply chain, consumer concerns surrounding cultivation conditions, and what both sides would need to do to return to the bargaining table. Throughout the interview, Cole emphasizes transparency by explaining how the interview came together and offers Ascend the opportunity to share its perspective in a future episode. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/30/e295/

Illinois cannabis laws continue to evolve, and this week we're breaking down some of the latest developments. We discuss the Illinois Department of Agriculture's new informational bulletin on Senate Bill 3222, including expanded craft grow canopy limits, new labeling requirements for medical cannabis, transporter updates, and other regulatory changes. We also take a look at whether Illinois' recent increase in possession limits could impact cannabis sales across the state. At the federal level, we cover the upcoming DEA marijuana rescheduling hearings, new scheduling details, efforts to make the proceedings publicly accessible, developments involving firearm rights for medical cannabis patients, and a surprising White House request urging Congress to reconsider broad hemp restrictions before they take effect later this year. We wrap things up with a post-show discussion on cannabis beverage dosage limits, tolerance, and why dosage caps continue to be a major point of debate. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/30/e294/

Fresh off the IgniteIt Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago, Cole shares reactions from cannabis operators, industry stakeholders, and policymakers following the passage of Illinois' landmark cannabis omnibus legislation. Hear what business owners, advocates, and legal professionals are saying about expanded possession limits, medical cannabis access, hemp regulation, and the many unanswered questions that remain as the law moves into implementation. The episode also explores major federal developments, including DEA inspections tied to cannabis rescheduling efforts, an upcoming federal hearing on Schedule III, and the growing debate over the future of hemp. Plus, hear highlights from Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton's appearance at IgniteIt and learn why many industry participants are optimistic about the road ahead, even as uncertainty remains. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/22/e293/

Governor JB Pritzker has signed Illinois’ cannabis omnibus legislation into law, marking one of the most significant updates to the state’s cannabis regulations since adult-use sales began in 2020. In this episode, we break down the new law, including expanded possession limits, free medical cannabis licenses for adult-use dispensaries, drive-thru and curbside sales, telehealth certifications, craft grow expansion, and new rules surrounding ownership disclosures and investment interests. We also discuss a new Chicago Sun-Times investigation involving cannabis ownership disclosures, questions surrounding implementation and rulemaking, and a recent report showing Illinois continues to lead adult-use states in cannabis arrest rates despite legalization. Plus, an update on upcoming FOIA requests, state responses, and what stories we're tracking next. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/18/e292/

On this impromptu live episode of The Cole Memo, Cole discusses reports that Trulieve is set to become the first U.S. cannabis company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, what that development could mean for the industry, and why other major operators appear to be preparing for similar moves. Cole also shares updates on an upcoming article examining the continued criminalization of cannabis in Illinois and teases new reporting that may be of particular interest to home growers. The episode also marks the return of Cole's homegrow journey, complete with a live grow cam, plans for a new grow journal, and an invitation for listeners to follow along throughout the season. Plus, updates on supporter contributions, ongoing payment processor issues, and a brief programming note regarding The Cole Memo's upcoming schedule. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/10/e291/

Illinois lawmakers have finally passed a long-discussed cannabis omnibus bill, but what does it actually mean for consumers, home growers, hemp operators, and the broader cannabis industry? Cole is joined by longtime friend Phil for a candid conversation about possession limit increases, medical access expansion, hemp restrictions, social equity transporters, security requirements, and why many of the state's biggest cannabis debates remain unresolved. The conversation also explores Illinois' continued cannabis arrests, civil asset forfeiture, home grow enforcement, cannabis DUI concerns, and whether recent reforms are addressing the root problems that have existed since legalization. Along the way, Cole and Phil compare Illinois to neighboring states, discuss Michigan's cannabis market, and look ahead to what could come next for cannabis policy in Illinois. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/06/e290/

In Episode 289 of The Cole Memo, Cole recaps a major week in Illinois cannabis policy as the omnibus cannabis and hemp legislation officially heads to Governor J.B. Pritzker's desk. He highlights key developments from recent coverage, reflects on conversations with advocates and lawmakers, and shares where listeners can find deeper analysis of the legislation. The episode also features a live Q&A covering homegrow advocacy, possession limits, cannabis consumption lounges, patient representation, and the ongoing effort to build grassroots support for broader cannabis reform in Illinois. Plus, Cole discusses recent recognition from Marijuana Moment and previews upcoming guests and projects. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/04/e289/

Cole is joined by Peter Contos in this live to tape broadcast of The Cole Memo. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/01/e288/

Illinois lawmakers have approved a wide-ranging cannabis, hemp, and regulatory omnibus bill, sending one of the most significant cannabis policy packages in years to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s desk. In this episode, Cole breaks down the major provisions, including proposed increases to possession limits, drive-thru and curbside dispensary pickup, expanded medical access, telehealth certifications, fee relief for smaller operators, and changes to cultivation and security requirements. Cole also examines the bill’s controversial hemp provisions, which supporters say create regulatory clarity but critics argue amount to a de facto hemp ban in Illinois. Plus, he discusses what the legislation could mean for patients, consumers, businesses, and the future of cannabis policy in the state. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/01/e287/

The Illinois House has passed SB 3222, a sweeping cannabis omnibus bill that would increase possession limits, expand medical patient access, allow dispensaries to stay open until 2 a.m., authorize drive-thrus, create new opportunities for social equity transporters, and establish a new framework for hemp regulation. During this live stream, Cole breaks down the floor debate, key provisions, and the arguments lawmakers made in support of the legislation. Cole also discusses what happens next, including the bill’s expected return to the Senate for a concurrence vote, the likelihood of reaching the governor’s desk, and what these proposed changes could mean for consumers, patients, businesses, and advocates across Illinois. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/01/e286/

Cole Preston goes live from Springfield with a Sunday morning update as the Illinois legislative session enters its final stretch. He breaks down the latest developments surrounding Senate Bill 3229, including new amendment language tied to federal hemp law, ongoing negotiations between lawmakers, and reporting from Capital News Illinois on the state's cannabis and hemp omnibus package. Along the way, Cole shares his thoughts on hemp regulation, the relationship between hemp and Illinois' licensed cannabis market, and why he believes broader reform could address many of the concerns currently being debated. He also explains why May 31 is such an important legislative deadline, discusses what happens if lawmakers miss it, and gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how he tracks legislation in real time. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/06/01/e285/

In this short episode, I give a brief update on how the end of the legislative session seems to be shaping up. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/30/e284/

In this live to tape episode, I share the latest developments that I'm hearing on Illinois cannabis policy. Then, I end the show by playing clips that I captured from the Midwest Cannabis Forum, including a panel that I was invited to be on at a moments nice. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/29/e283/

Illinois lawmakers held a major subject matter hearing on Senate Bill 20, a sweeping cannabis and hemp proposal that could reshape the Illinois market. In this episode, Cole breaks down the hearing in real time, covering proposed increases to possession limits, expanded dispensary hours, drive-thru sales, medical access changes, hemp regulation, and the ongoing debate over Illinois cannabis taxes. The hearing also featured testimony from state regulators, industry representatives, and lawmakers discussing why Illinois continues to struggle with competition from neighboring states like Michigan and Missouri. Cole reacts live to the discussion surrounding participation in the regulated market, the future of intoxicating hemp products, social equity licensing, and whether Illinois is making cannabis policy unnecessarily complicated. Watch video version and read full show notes here:https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/27/e282/

Cole Preston is joined by Brad Spirrison to preview the upcoming Midwest Cannabis Forum, a regional event bringing together voices from across the cannabis, hemp, beverage, tech, finance, and regulatory worlds. The conversation explores why organizers are trying to create a space for dialogue between industries that are often at odds, while also discussing the rapidly changing landscape surrounding hemp-derived products, intoxicating beverages, and cannabis regulation in Illinois and beyond. They also discuss Illinois cannabis legislation, potential Schedule III implications, 280E tax relief, social equity concerns, medical dispensary access, and the broader uncertainty surrounding federal reform. Along the way, the episode features audience questions, Midwest market analysis, and plenty of classic Cole Memo banter. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/22/e281/

This week on The Cole Memo, Cole breaks down Illinois House Bill 5784, a sweeping new cannabis omnibus proposal that could dramatically reshape cannabis policy in the state. The bill would double possession limits for adults, expand medical access by allowing patients to shop at more dispensaries with lower tax rates, extend dispensary operating hours until 2 a.m., expand drive-thru and curbside pickup options, loosen certain criminal history barriers for cannabis workers, and potentially codify telemedicine for medical cannabis patients. Cole also discusses proposed transfer sites for transporters, relocation flexibility for dispensaries, and the broader implications of the state moving toward more open cannabis access. Later in the episode, Cole revisits the ongoing fallout from faulty THC DUI testing tied to the UIC analytical forensic testing laboratory, as more DUI charges are dropped over what prosecutors called “scientifically erroneous evidence.” He also reacts to Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger vetoing a legal retail cannabis market while preserving homegrow rights for adults, sparking a broader discussion about what meaningful legalization should actually look like. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/21/e280/

Cole breaks down the latest cannabis policy developments unfolding in Illinois, including concerns surrounding House Bill 4782, the state’s odor-proof vehicle law, and discussions about possible changes tied to a broader cannabis omnibus package. Cole also shares what advocates are hearing behind the scenes about lawmakers tightening the circle around cannabis policymaking and what that could mean for consumers, homegrow advocates, and the future of reform in Illinois. The episode also covers the viral TSA medical marijuana policy discussion, new Department of Transportation guidance on truckers and pilots using medical cannabis, and a letter to the editor from the Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition calling for reform to Illinois vehicle search laws. Plus, Cole discusses the upcoming Midwest Cannabis Forum in Chicago, cannabis events around Illinois, homegrow genetics, and why cannabis became a “gateway to politics” for him. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/21/e279/

Cole Preston is joined by Madeline Scanlon for a wide-ranging conversation about homegrow culture, cannabis legalization, Schedule III concerns, and the future of cannabis access in Illinois. Maddie shares details about her new Outdoor Grow Club through High Focus Media, designed to help everyday people successfully grow outdoor cannabis with community support, clones, supplies, and education throughout the season. The conversation also explores regulatory capture, hemp bans, medical cannabis, testing standards, cannabis lounges, certified supply models, and why both Maddie and Cole believe growing your own cannabis remains one of the most important forms of access and autonomy for consumers. Plus, they discuss cannabis beverages, hashmaking, outdoor cultivation myths, and the ongoing push to normalize the plant in Illinois and beyond. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/14/e278/

Cole Preston is joined by Michael Lasley of Illinois News Joint for a wide-ranging conversation about the federal government’s latest cannabis rescheduling developments and what they could mean for Illinois. From Schedule III and 280E tax relief to homegrow protections, interstate commerce, and the future of medical cannabis, the two unpack the massive questions still hanging over the industry. They also discuss Illinois’ unique dual-license structure, whether adult-use dispensaries could eventually become medical, how federal policy is increasingly driven by business interests, and why both believe cannabis is still in the very early stages of legalization. Along the way, they dive into craft cannabis, industry consolidation, homegrow culture, hemp enforcement, amusement parks, and the long history of cannabis in Champaign-Urbana. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/05/e277/

Enjoy this short episode. Show notes will be available soon at ColeMemo.com

In this episode of The Cole Memo, we take a closer look at where Illinois cannabis tax revenue is actually going and whether it’s living up to the promises made at legalization. From general revenue funds to reinvestment programs, we break down what’s known, what’s unclear, and why transparency still matters. We also highlight an op-ed from State Representative Sonia Harper, who argues that while the industry is thriving, the equity goals behind legalization remain unfinished. We also examine new data showing Illinois now leads the nation in cannabis arrests among legalization states, raising serious questions about ongoing enforcement and whether legalization has truly reduced harm. Plus, updates on a lawsuit involving alleged patient data exposure, a local dispensary raid, and reflections on cannabis culture from the Silk Road era to today. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/04/21/e275/

This episode covers a range of developing stories shaping the cannabis landscape. Cole breaks down allegations against Verano involving the exposure of sensitive patient data, highlighting ongoing concerns around privacy in the medical market. He also explores Target’s expansion into hemp-derived THC drinks in Minnesota, raising questions about corporate influence and what companies may be anticipating as regulatory changes loom. The episode also features Cole’s latest Illinois Cannabis Report for Cannabis Coast to Coast News, where he discusses stalled legislation around odor-based vehicle searches and the broader pattern of slow reform in the state. The conversation ties into bigger themes around access, enforcement, and how policy continues to impact both consumers and workers. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/04/15/e274/

In this episode, I sit down with Jimmy Young, executive producer of Cannabis Coast to Coast News and an Emmy award-winning broadcaster, to talk about his journey from sports media into cannabis journalism. We discuss how he built a national platform covering cannabis policy, the challenges of censorship in the space, and what it really takes to produce consistent, independent media in a rapidly evolving industry. We also get into the deeper history behind cannabis prohibition, including the long shadow of Nixon-era policies, and explore the ongoing debates around legalization, hemp, and market structure. From media bias to public perception and the future of reform, this conversation pulls back the curtain on where things stand today and where they may be headed next. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/04/10/e273/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole covers a major upcoming Illinois cannabis town hall and breaks down a viral controversy surrounding inflated THC potency labels in dispensaries. A Reddit post and independent testing results raise serious questions about accuracy and trust in cannabis testing, highlighting how young and evolving the industry still is. The main segment features a deep dive into Missouri’s rapidly escalating hemp policy battle. Business owners Nick Thomas and Jamie share firsthand accounts of a proposed bill that could effectively eliminate hemp-derived products, including CBD. They discuss barriers to entering the licensed market, lobbying influence, and what they see as a coordinated effort to consolidate control. The conversation also explores federal uncertainty, potential legal challenges, and what comes next if the ban moves forward. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/04/07/e272/

In this episode, I’m joined by Brad Spirrison to discuss the relaunch of GrownIn and what it means for cannabis commerce and culture in Chicago and the broader Midwest. We talk about why the region is uniquely positioned as a hub for cannabis talent, business, and innovation, and how this next chapter aims to bring those pieces together in a more intentional way. We also dive into the upcoming Midwest Cannabis Forum on May 28, including who should attend, what kind of conversations to expect, and why events like this matter as the industry continues to evolve. Along the way, we touch on federal rescheduling, the rise of hemp beverages, and the importance of aligning stakeholders around the reality that it is all one plant. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/04/03/e271/

In this episode, Cole breaks down a major Illinois cannabis licensing case heading to court, where questions around transparency, fairness, and hidden relationships are front and center. With hundreds of allegedly ineligible applications impacting the odds, the outcome of this case could reshape how people view the state’s licensing process. Cole also shares a personal milestone, announcing his official entry into the industry and what that means moving forward. Plus, a quick recap of recent episodes and what to keep an eye on next. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/04/03/e270/

In this episode, Cole sits down with longtime lobbyist Mark Peysakhovich to unpack how policy actually gets made behind the scenes in Springfield. With over 30 years of experience, Mark shares his journey from immigrating to the United States to becoming a key figure in state legislative affairs, working across cannabis, hemp, healthcare, and more. The conversation goes far beyond cannabis, diving into how lobbying really works, why “just explaining the facts” is rarely enough, and how competing interests shape the laws that impact everyday people. From the fight over hemp to the realities of legalization, this episode offers a candid look at power, policy, and the gap between intention and outcome. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/03/27/e269/

In this episode, I sit down with a fellow advocate to discuss a headline story involving alleged cocaine cash laundering tied to an Illinois cannabis licensee, along with the latest updates from Springfield. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/03/27/e268/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, we break down several key developments shaping cannabis policy right now. From ongoing confusion around Illinois’ odor-proof container law to new concerns about DUI testing accuracy, there’s no shortage of questions about how these rules are actually being applied in the real world. We also take a look at labor wins in the industry and what they could mean for workers moving forward. Beyond Illinois, we explore growing pressure on Indiana to legalize cannabis as surrounding states continue to move ahead. Plus, we dig into a new push from the alcohol industry to delay a federal hemp THC ban and what that could mean for the future of the market. As always, we keep it high-level but focused on the bigger picture behind these shifting policies. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/03/24/e267/

This episode of The Cole Memo breaks down two major stories shaping the conversation around cannabis policy in Illinois. First, new developments in the University of Illinois Chicago drug testing lab controversy raise serious questions about past DUI cases, scientific standards, and accountability. As more cases get dropped, the conversation around faulty testing continues to grow. Then, we shift to a real-world example of how confusing cannabis laws can be. After a public statement from law enforcement about possession rules, Cole reaches out directly for clarification and walks through what the law actually says. From odor-based searches to vehicle rules and common misconceptions, this segment highlights how easily misinformation can spread and why clarity matters. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/03/23/e266/

This episode of The Cole Memo covers a handful of stories that show how messy cannabis policy can get once it leaves the page and enters the real world. Cole breaks down the arrest of an Illinois man returning from Michigan with cannabis, reacts to the online conversation around that case, and looks at Senator Rachel Ventura’s latest psilocybin proposal and what it could mean for broader drug policy in Illinois. The episode also explores questions surrounding Revolution dispensaries in Illinois, including branding changes, online speculation, and a Cook County lawsuit that may help explain what viewers have been noticing. Cole then wraps with a look at Grown Rogue’s reported move into Illinois through an existing Dwight facility, raising bigger questions about expansion, restructuring, and how cannabis licensing really works in this state. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/03/13/e265/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole is joined by hemp farmer and congressional candidate Stacy McCaskill for a wide-ranging conversation about cannabis policy, the hemp industry, and the challenges of entering politics as an independent voice. They discuss the ongoing debate between hemp and marijuana markets, why many small operators see the 2018 Farm Bill as their only on-ramp into the cannabis industry, and the tension between large licensed operators and emerging hemp businesses. The conversation also explores the realities of running for Congress, including ballot access rules, the influence of entrenched political power, and the role independent candidates can play in disrupting the current system. Along the way, they examine regulation, market competition, and the broader question of whether current cannabis policies truly serve consumers, farmers, and small entrepreneurs. Read full show notes or watch video version here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/03/12/e264/

In this laid-back episode of The Cole Memo, Cole sits down with Byron, host of the Lost and Faded podcast, for a fun conversation about cannabis, movies, and building an independent creative platform. Byron shares how he got started in the cannabis industry, what inspired him to launch a podcast centered around smoking and talking about films, and how the show has grown into a space for movie lovers, stoners, and creators alike. The conversation bounces from first smoking stories and getting caught back in the day to favorite strains, high movie recommendations, Scary Movie 6, Napoleon Dynamite, subtitles, horror, and the joys of making content from the ground up. It is a relaxed, funny, and very human conversation between two Illinois creators just talking shop and having a good time. Watch video version and read full show notes: https://thecolememo.com/2026/03/03/e263/

In Episode 262, Cole plays clips from a wide-ranging interview with Illinois cannabis regulator Vaughn Bentley of IDFPR, digging into how the state oversees dispensaries, what regulators say they prioritize, and why Illinois does things differently than most states. Along the way, Cole shares commentary on testing, recalls, product safety, privacy protections at dispensaries, and the ongoing debate over limited licenses and the so-called race to the bottom. You will also get quick legislative updates, including Cole’s latest on Illinois’s odor-proof packaging requirement and what listeners should expect next when it comes to witness slips and committee movement. Watch the video or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/02/27/e262/

Cole sits back down with Jeremy Gorner of the Chicago Tribune to break down Governor Pritzker’s combined Budget and State of the State address. From a proposed social media platform fee and casino tax changes to renewed efforts on cell phone bans in schools, nuclear energy expansion, and housing reform, they unpack what “affordability” really means in an election year and what lawmakers may or may not be willing to tackle. They also dive into the latest twist in the Chicago Bears stadium saga, as Indiana lawmakers make a move that Illinois officials say caught them off guard. Is this high stakes negotiation or political leverage at its finest? Cole and Jeremy walk through what’s happening, what it means for taxpayers, and how it could shape the months ahead. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/02/24/e261/