The Cole Memo is your go-to source for informed, open discussion on civil liberties. Each episode tackles pressing issues, such as the decriminalization of drugs, the latest developments in the cannabis industry, and so much more. Hear from a diverse range of guests, including but not limited to: industry insiders, advocates, entertainers, and musicians, as they bring their unique perspectives to the conversation. Tune in to stay informed and engaged on the issues that matter most. Go to The ...
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#180 – Illinois Politics Unplugged: Representative Dan Caulkins on Policy, Power, and the Future
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2:17:30In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston sits down with (former) Illinois State Representative Dan Caulkins for a candid discussion about the challenges of serving in the Illinois General Assembly. Together, they unpack the state’s pressing issues, including protectionist legislation, the effectiveness of bans, and the controversial Illinois …
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#179 – Illinois Senator Ventura’s Push for Reform: Cannabis, Drug Policy, and Campaign Finance
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1:27:32In this episode, I travel to Joliet, Illinois, to sit down with Senator Rachel Ventura. We discuss her groundbreaking legislation that could end vehicle searches based solely on the smell of cannabis, a longstanding issue impacting cannabis consumers across Illinois. Senator Ventura shares the story behind the bill, the challenges with current laws…
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#178 - Medical or Rec? Why This Receipt is Raising Questions
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1:17:57In this stream, I’m breaking down a strange dispensary glitch with the customer who caught it. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/21/e178/Oleh Cole Preston
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Episode 177 – “Booger Sugar” in Smoke Shops? Plus the Latest Cannabis News!
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57:20In this episode of The Cole Memo, I talk about legal “booger sugar” that is for sale in smoke shops and I share some cannabis news stories that caught my eye. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/08/e177/Oleh Cole Preston
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#176 - How YOU Can Help Legalize Cannabis Lounges & Events in Illinois
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1:39:31In this episode of The Cole Memo, host Cole Preston discusses House Bill 3061, the On-Premise Cannabis Consumption Act, with advocates Nathan, Maddie, and Dipesh from the Illinois Cannabis Consumption Association. They break down how the bill would allow municipalities to permit cannabis lounges and events, creating safer spaces for consumers while…
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#175 - Debating Prohibitionists & Cannabis Industry Moves
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43:01Cole responds to criticism over his interview with Every Brain Matters’ Aubrey Adams(episode available soon at ColeMemo.com/Patreon), defending open dialogue and the importance of engaging with opposing views. He tackles claims that hosting prohibitionists is harmful, arguing that avoiding an echo chamber only weakens the movement. The episode also…
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#174 - Inside the Honeycomb Hideout Retreat: Illinois’ Cannabis Oasis
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1:45:23In this episode of The Cole Memo, I visit the Honeycomb Hideout Retreat in Addison, Illinois, for a deep dive into this unique cannabis-friendly space. I sit down with Mark Kunicki, the founder, to discuss how the retreat fosters community, education, and access to high-quality cannabis products. From networking and game nights to medical card cons…
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#173 – Madigan’s Fall and Illinois’ Ethics Crossroads featuring Jeremy Gorner
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18:40In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole sits down with Jeremy Gorner of the Chicago Tribune to discuss the fallout from former Speaker Michael Madigan’s conviction and its implications for Illinois politics. They explore Governor Pritzker’s brief, off-the-cuff reference to Madigan during his budget address, the GOP’s renewed calls for ethics reform,…
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#172 - I testified against the police!
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1:23:16In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole breaks down Senate Bill 42, which could end Illinois' requirement for odor-proof cannabis containers and stop police from searching cars based solely on the smell of weed. Joined by Phil, they discuss Cole’s testimony at the state Senate hearing, law enforcement pushback, and the broader implications for perso…
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#171 - Illinois resident sues law enforcement for seizing legal cannabis
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1:14:40In this live episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston kicks things off with updates on the Real ID deadline and other news before diving into the main story: a groundbreaking lawsuit where Illinois State Police were forced to return legally seized cannabis and cash. He also explores racial disparities in enforcement and breaks down the ongoing debate…
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#170 - Illinois Hemp Farm Raided by Police
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1:14:19In this special live episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston is joined by co-host Phil and guest Demarcus Medley, owner of Green Lords Farms in Galesburg, Illinois. They dive into Demarcus’s journey from urban farming with aquaponics to becoming one of Illinois’ first Black hemp farmers. Demarcus shares the harrowing story of being raided by police …
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#169 - RFK Jr. Comments on Cannabis, New Consumption Bill in Illinois, and more!
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1:02:01In this live Valentine's Day episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston covers major cannabis policy updates in Illinois, including new bills that could legalize on-premise consumption at hospitality venues and eliminate the state's controversial odor-proof container requirement. He also breaks down RFK Jr.'s recent comments on cannabis and their poten…
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#168 - Is Hemp Hurting Illinois’ Cannabis Market? Solutions & Must-Know News
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1:33:05In this episode of The Cole Memo, we break down Illinois' record-breaking cannabis sales in 2024 and explore what these numbers really mean. While the state touts economic growth, we examine the growing divide between corporate operators and social equity businesses, as well as the ongoing battle over hemp-derived cannabinoids. Plus, we discuss Gov…
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#167 - Chicago City Hall Discusses Regulating Hemp Instead Of Banning
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1:53:26As Illinois braces for snow, Cole and Phil dive into a jam-packed episode covering recent cannabis legislation, regulatory updates, and the ongoing debate over hemp-derived THC. They break down new proposals, including a bill to expand home cultivation limits and efforts to introduce cannabis delivery in the state. The conversation also explores th…
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#166 - Goblin Roasts Verano, Illinois Cannabis Sales Soar, and THC Limits Challenged
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1:24:17In this live episode of The Cole Memo, we discuss cannabis influencer Goblin's scathing response to Verano's sponsorship offer. We also break down Illinois’ record-breaking cannabis sales, surpassing $2 billion in 2024, and dive into a bizarre lawsuit challenging THC potency limits in concentrates. Plus, I’m joined by live callers! Want to call in …
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#165 - Latest Illinois Cannabis News
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22:24In this episode of The Cole Memo, I review the latest in Illinois cannabis news: A new bill in the Illinois General Assembly could put an end to vehicle searches based solely on cannabis odor. I break down what this means, the legal background, and the potential impact. I also touch on the ongoing debate between hemp and marijuana and how state pol…
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#164 - Hemp Regulation Battles, Political Tensions, And Illinois Ethics In Focus
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34:08n this episode of The Cole Memo, I sit down with Jeremy Gorner from the Chicago Tribune to discuss the latest developments in Illinois politics and policy. We dive into the heated debate over hemp regulation, including the behind-the-scenes lobbying efforts by Governor Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Jeremy shares insights on how these …
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#163 - Did the Lame Duck Push to Ban Hemp in Illinois Lack Support?
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2:09:17In this episode of The Cole Memo, we examine the failed lame duck effort to ban federally-legal cannabis products in Illinois. Was there ever enough support for the controversial bill, or did political tensions and public opposition seal its fate? Tune in for a recap on this high-stakes legislative showdown. Watch video version and read full show n…
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#162 - Hash Wednesday: Reviving Tradition, Challenging the War on Drugs
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1:01:18In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Jesus, a passionate advocate who helped reignite the historic Hash Wednesday tradition at the University of Illinois. You can learn more about Hash Wednesday at ColeMemo.com/History. During the episode, Cole and Jesus explore the event's roots, the camaraderie it fosters, and the ongoing fight against th…
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#161 - Cannabis Remediation, Regulation, and Beyond
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1:11:27I’m joined by Maddie Scanlon, founder of High Focus Media and the Illinois Cannabis Consumption Association, to unpack the hot topic of cannabis remediation, Illinois' strict testing standards, and the need for better transparency in labeling. We also explore the role of hemp in cannabis policy and how normalization through consumption advocacy is …
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#160 - From Brick Weed to Artisanal Craft: Cannabis Innovation with Dustin Shroyer
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1:45:10In this episode, I sit down with Dustin, the former COO and President of Revolution Cannabis in Illinois, to explore his journey from early experiments with homegrown cannabis in the 90s to shaping cutting-edge cultivation and extraction techniques. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/01/17/e160/…
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#159 - Social Equity, Cannabis Testing, and the .3% Line
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2:04:32In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Miggy and Phil for a lively discussion on the evolving dynamics of the hemp and cannabis industries. They explore the blurred lines between hemp and marijuana, the implications of Illinois' strict regulations, and the impact of social equity programs. From consumer safety concerns with synthetic products…
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#158 - Illinois Cannabis Transport Challenges & Hemp
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2:15:33In this episode, I welcome Ted Parks, chairman of the Independent Third-Party Carriers Association (ITPCA), to discuss the trials and triumphs of independent cannabis transporters in Illinois. We'll also be discussing hemp! Watch video version and see full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/01/10/e158/…
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#157 - Law Enforcement Perspective on Cannabis Legalization and Policy
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1:03:03In this episode, Cole engages in a thought-provoking conversation with RJ, a former law enforcement officer with 20 years of experience at local, state, and federal levels, including work with DHS and border security. This episode is audio only. Read full show notes: https://thecolememo.com/2025/01/10/e157/…
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Mini Doc: Cannabis Legalization In Illinois
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1:00:09This documentary uncovers the hidden flaws in Illinois’ cannabis legalization, detailing how excitement turned into a complex web of criminal penalties and inequities. Through in-depth analysis and interviews, it reveals how promises of reform were overshadowed by political interests and limited access, leaving many residents still facing criminal …
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#155 - In Illinois, Weed is "Legal" but Arrests Continue
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36:53In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston and Phil discuss the release of Cole’s new mini-documentary, now streaming at colememo.com/minidoc. They reflect on the challenges of Illinois' cannabis legalization, touching on persistent criminalization, limited licensing, and the broader Midwest cannabis culture. Watch video version and read full s…
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In this episode, I share the exciting news about the release of the final cut of my mini-documentary and let you know that the public feeds will be quieter during the holiday season. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2024/12/18/e154/Oleh Cole Preston
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#153 – A New Era for Cannabis: Hemp Policy and Cognitive Liberty
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2:03:20In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole welcomes Shaleen Title for a thought-provoking discussion on cannabis legalization, the evolving role of hemp, and the need for policy innovation. Shaleen reflects on her career in drug policy reform and her focus on cultivating the next generation of leaders, and Cole explores how the hemp industry’s advantag…
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#152 - Breaking Down Illinois’ Hemp Crackdown
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1:56:32In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston dives into Governor Pritzker's press conference addressing a controversial bill aimed at regulating hemp-derived THC products in Illinois. Joined by fellow advocate Phil and Illinois Hemp Growers Association leaders Rachel and Chris Berry, they unpack the proposed legislation, its implications for smal…
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#151 - Smells Like Trouble: Illinois Supreme Court's Ruling on Cannabis Odor Searches
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1:18:34In this episode of The Cole Memo, I sit down with legal professionals Evan Bruno and Bob Galhotra to dissect the Illinois Supreme Court’s rulings on Redmond and Molina, two pivotal cases involving traffic searches and cannabis odor. We break down the broader implications of these rulings, discuss the controversial "odor-proof container" requirement…
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In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Chicago Tribune reporter Jeremy Gorner for an in-depth discussion on Illinois' firearm ban, its legal challenges, and the latest developments from the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Jeremy provides a detailed breakdown of the case's journey through the courts, the implications of recent rulings, and w…
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#149 - Illinois Supreme Court Rules on Cannabis Odor (Clip from High at 9)
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10:08This is a clip from a recent episode of High At Nine, where the hosts discuss a story I originally reported on The Cole Memo. The segment covers breaking news from Illinois, as the state Supreme Court upholds the odor-proof cannabis container law, ruling that the smell of raw cannabis alone can provide probable cause for warrantless vehicle searche…
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#148 - Unequal Road Ahead: Examining Disparities in Cannabis Transport Rules
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1:04:58In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole sits down with attorney Ali Jubelirer to discuss her groundbreaking lawsuit against the Illinois Department of Agriculture. The case alleges discriminatory practices in the state’s cannabis transport licensing process, disproportionately affecting minority and women-owned businesses. Ali shares insights into t…
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#147 - Illinois Cannabis Lawsuit: Live with the Lawyer Behind the Case
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0:40Join me LIVE on Monday, December 2nd, at 4:20 p.m. Central for an all-new episode of The Cole Memo! I’ll be speaking with the lawyer at the center of the Illinois cannabis lawsuit that’s been featured in major outlets like the Chicago Sun-Times. Don’t miss this exclusive conversation about the fight for equity in the Illinois cannabis industry. Rea…
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#146 - From Paperwork to Progress: A Follow-Up on Illinois Medical Cannabis Evolution
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26:21Join me for a reflective dive into the evolution of Illinois' medical cannabis program. From navigating outdated paper processes and restrictive dispensary registrations to today's streamlined patient portals, we've come a long way—but there's still more to achieve. I discuss the milestones, challenges, and opportunities for further progress, inclu…
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#145 - Lone Star Liberation: Texas Cannabis Battles and Triumphs
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42:01In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole is joined by Austin, the executive director of the Texas Cannabis Collective, to dive into the dynamic and evolving world of cannabis policy in Texas. They discuss the recent decriminalization wins in cities like Dallas, the contrasts between Texas’s restrictive medical program and its flourishing hemp market,…
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#144 - Legal Psychedelics in Oregon: Dr. Eric Lee's Approach to Healing
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36:18Cole chats with Dr. Eric Lee, founder of Space, a psychedelic clinic in Portland. Dr. Lee shares his journey from telemedicine to making guided psychedelic experiences affordable and accessible, all while navigating Oregon's unique regulatory landscape. They discuss how Dr. Lee keeps costs low, the concept of insurance-covered sessions, and the rol…
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#143 - From "Loophole" to Lifeline: How Hemp Could Shape the Future of Cannabis featuring Rod Kight
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1:03:22In this episode, Cole sits down with Rod Kight, an attorney and hemp advocate, to explore the ongoing battle over hemp regulations and what it means for consumers, small businesses, and the cannabis industry at large. They discuss the crucial freedoms granted by the 2018 Farm Bill, the three-pillar regulatory approach to keep consumers safe, and th…
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#142 - Ash & Ivy - A Family-Backed Dispensary Blooms In Illinois
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11:29In this episode of The Cole Memo, I interview Holly Roeder, owner of Ash & Ivy, a new self-funded, family-backed dispensary in Southern Illinois. Holly shares that their dispensary is preparing for a soft opening on November 13, 2024, with the grand opening on Saturday. After facing challenges with opening a lounge in Sesser, Illinois, they moved t…
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#141 - Addressing Illinois Hemp Panic + New Hemp Legislation Explained
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1:36:16In this episode, we’re sparking a conversation with Chris and Rachel from the Illinois Hemp Growers Association. Join us as we discuss the potential impact of House Bill 5903, which aims to reshape hemp regulations in Illinois by aligning them with federal standards. We dive into recent headlines around proposed state regulations and the growing te…
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#140 - Eapen Thampy On Missouri Cannabis Reform, Government Corruption, And The Rise Of Hemp
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58:56In this episode, I speak with Eapen Thampy, a longtime cannabis lobbyist in Missouri, about the restrictive licensing models that limit access and fuel corruption within the cannabis industry. Eapen shares his insights on the rise of hemp-derived THC products, which he sees as an accessible alternative that bypasses the dispensary model, offering c…
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#139 - Luke Niforatos - Smart Approaches to Marijuana
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1:03:27In this episode of The Cole Memo, host Cole Preston connects with Luke Niforatos, Executive Vice President of Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM). SAM advocates for a “third-way” approach to cannabis policy, opposing full legalization and commercialization while promoting responsible regulation. Watch video version and read show notes here: https:/…
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#138 – Tyrone Muhammad – Prohibition THCafe
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1:10:53In this episode, I sit down with Tyrone Muhammad at a dispensary that he co-founded, Prohibition THCafe. At this location, they sell Support Your Local Weedman branded cannabis-hemp products such as edibles, pre-rolls, flower, and more. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2024/11/03/e138/…
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#137 - From Cannabis Reform to Psychedelic Progress: A Chat with Dan Linn
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1:19:16In this special Halloween episode of The Cole Memo, Cole and Phil spark up a conversation with longtime cannabis and psychedelic policy advocate Dan Linn. Known for his impactful work with Illinois NORML and the Illinois Psychedelic Society, Dan shares insights from his 15+ years fighting for sensible drug policies. They discuss the evolution of ca…
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#136 - Cameron Clarke, CEO of Sunderstorm
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49:03In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cameron Clarke, CEO and Co-Founder of Sunderstorm, explores two contrasting cannabis markets: Thailand’s swift descheduling and the U.S.’s tightly regulated approach. He also shares the evolution of Sunderstorm’s edibles brand, Kanha—from pioneering fast-acting nano-tech edibles to launching wellness-driven product…
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#135 - David Lakeman’s Departure from Illinois
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1:45:11In this episode of The Cole Memo, I watch David Lakeman's live-streamed interview for the role of Executive Director at the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission and share key takeaways. I also discuss the importance of transparency in cannabis governance and explore the potential impact of Lakeman’s move on Illinois' cannabis policies. Don't m…
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#134 – Jordan Davidson returns
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1:06:38In this episode of The Cole Memo, I reconnect with Jordan Davidson, the Government Affairs Manager for Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM). SAM advocates for a "third-way" approach to cannabis policy; they oppose full legalization and commercialization. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2024/10/25/ep134/…
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#133 - The Future of Cannabis and Hemp
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2:02:35In this episode, I’m joined by two guests to explore the future of cannabis and hemp: Chris Fontes, CEO of Trojan Horse Cannabis and High Spirits Beverages, and returning guest Tom Howard, a cannabis attorney and legalization advocate.Chris and Tom cover the complexities of the current cannabis and hemp industries, examining how legislation, regula…
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In this episode of The Cole Memo, I reconnect with Dana Larsen, an influential Canadian author, businessman, and advocate for drug policy reform. Dana has been a trailblazer in this space, founding Vancouver’s third cannabis dispensary and the city’s first mushroom dispensary. He has also expanded into broader psychedelic access, providing products…
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