Explore every episode of the podcast Planting Seeds with Senator Sharif Street

On today's episode, Gibran Washington and Dr. Brooke Worster discuss Brooke's journey into cannabis research and its impact on her role as Chief Medical Officer at Ethos. Dr. Worster is a pioneering palliative care clinician and researcher dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of medical cannabis. As the Director of Supportive Oncology at Jefferson Health in Philadelphia and Chief Medical Officer at EO Care, she bridges the gap between medicine, research, and business to improve patient care. Brooke explaines that her interest in cannabis was sparked by her patients' requests for guidance on its use, leading her to educate herself on the subject. She notes that the lack of quality research on cannabis was a significant challenge. Brooke also highlightes the importance of engaging with people interested in cannabis research, as they are eager to contribute to the development of better answers for all. Gibran and Dr. Worster also discusse the potential benefits of cannabis as a pain management alternative to opioids. Brooke shares her experience with patients who had successfully transitioned from opioids to cannabis, noting the latter's lower addictive potential and lack of respiratory depressant effects.

Today's show, with Frederika Easley, revolves around the cannabis industry and its potential for economic growth and diversification. Frederika is the Executive Director of The Cannabis Impact Fund, a host and producer of "The People Are Blunt" podcast as part of The People’s Ecosystem, and Vice President of the Minority Cannabis Business Association. Gibran and Frederika emphasize the need for micro licenses to allow small businesses to scale and compete, and the importance of equitable practices to ensure minority businesses are not infantilized. They also discussed the potential benefits of rescheduling cannabis, including increased access to capital and the removal of 280E tax restrictions. Frederika also highlights the need for a more inclusive industry, not just for communities of color, but also for small white business owners who lack access to traditional capital markets. The Cannabis Impact Fund was introduced as an organization working to educate businesses on equitable practices and promote sustainable growth in the industry.

Joe Hodas and Paul Armentano discuss the evolution of cannabis policy and the role of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). Paul shares his 31-year journey in advocating for cannabis legalization, noting the significant shift in public opinion and policy changes. Paul highlights the decrease in marijuana-related arrests from a million annually to around 225,000, and the expansion of medical and recreational cannabis access across the United States. Joe expresses interest in Paul's background and the progression of cannabis policy as they dive deeper into polling results and data in future discussions.

Todd Eachus, Partner at Pure Green BioAg joins us on this episode of Planting Seeds. Todd discusses the evolution of the medical marijuana system in Pennsylvania. He notes a significant cultural shift, with around 70% of the population now supporting cannabis use, up from around 30% previously. The medical program has been successful, with numerous sites serving patients statewide and generating robust revenue for the state. Todd believes the time is right to create an adult-use cannabis market, building on the proven medical program.

In today's episode Joe Hodas welcomes Gibran Washington, the CEO of Ethos Cannabis, a multi-state cannabis operator headquartered in Philadelphia. Gibran discusses his background and journey into the cannabis industry, which was influenced by his family and personal experiences, before sharing his vision for the future of the cannabis industry.

In today's episode, Joe Hodas and Senator Sharif Street introduce two special guests: Councilman Curtis Jones and Mason Tvert. Jones is a lifelong Philadelphian serving his fifth term in the Philadelphia City Council, and Mason is a seasoned communications and public affairs professional who has played an active role in the legalization movement throughout the country. Jones discusses his evolving position on the legalization of cannabis in Pennsylvania, emphasizing the importance of understanding who would benefit and who would not. Mason, who has been working in cannabis policy for two decades, shares his background and current efforts towards treating cannabis similarly to alcohol.

Cannabis legalization in the United States is a multi-faceted issue that touches on social equity, local and state regulations, and the broader market dynamics. With voices from both the legislative field and industry providing critical insights, we navigate the labyrinthine world of cannabis legislation and explore the future landscapes shaped by current debates and policies. 

One of the most urgent issues discussed in the recent podcast is social equity within the cannabis sector. Today's guest, Tony Payton Jr., underscores the complexity involved in providing entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups with a fair shot in the industry. Drawing from his experience across multiple states, Payton emphasizes how exorbitant fees can hinder social equity efforts.

Tony Payton Jr. is a former Pennsylvania State Representative, having served three terms. He later worked as the Deputy Secretary for the Department of Community and Economic Development in Pennsylvania. Currently, Tony is venturing into the cannabis industry as a licensed Multi-State Operator (MSO) with operations in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Australia. Additionally, he runs a government relations firm, having deep-rooted experience in both legislative processes and cannabis industry dynamics.

Discover how Pennsylvania plans to learn from Colorado and California's cannabis experiences with Senator Sharif Street and Wana Brands' President, Joe Hodas. Explore the state's innovative approach to creating a cannabis control board for nimble regulation, addressing taxation, enforcement, and supporting illicit market transition into the legal market. Join the conversation on bipartisan strategies, taxation targets, and equitable market integration to shape a successful legalization landscape. Tune in for insights on building a sustainable and inclusive cannabis industry in Pennsylvania.

In the realm of cannabis legislation, Pennsylvania stands at a pivotal juncture. The proposal to create a dedicated regulatory agency, akin to a Cannabis Control Board, signals a significant shift in how the industry will be governed. This innovative approach aims to streamline regulatory processes, allowing for more agile responses to market changes. As Senator Street aptly highlights, this move could enable Pennsylvania to address current challenges promptly, preventing a clash between outdated regulations and evolving market dynamics. The vision of a regulatory body solely focused on cannabis signals a progressive stance toward efficient and effective industry oversight.

In the realm of Pennsylvania cannabis policy, the path to legalization is fraught with complexities and challenges. In a recent discussion with Senator Sharif Street's team, critical insights were shared on the nuanced dynamics shaping the potential adult-use cannabis landscape in the state. From regulatory frameworks to industry perspectives, the conversation shed light on key considerations vital for a successful transition. Let's delve into the key takeaways and explore the implications of these insights in detail.

Trent Woloveck is the Chief Strategy Director for Jushi, a multistate operator in the cannabis industry. With a background in finance and extensive experience in the regulated cannabis sector spanning over a decade, Trent has been instrumental in building and growing Jushi since its inception. His unique perspective and expertise have made a significant impact on the industry, focusing on balancing business success with societal benefits.

Les Stark is a Pennsylvania hemp historian who has spent thousands of hours researching the historic Pennsylvania hemp industry. He has documented the existence of hundreds of hemp mills throughout the state and uncovered an epic tale of the days when nearly every farmer in the state grew hemp.

Since 1997 he has been teaching this information to farmers, farm organizations, historical societies, community groups, the media, weed, legislators and the general public. He is the author of Hempstone Heritage

Les served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a tank crewman on the M60A1 tank from 1984-1987.

The cannabis landscape is evolving rapidly, and Pennsylvania stands at the cusp of potentially transformative legislation. In the 8th episode of Planting Seeds with Senator Sharif Street, distinct perspectives converge, offering insights into the complex interplay between large multi-state operators (MSOs), small-scale operators, and the pursuit of social equity in the cannabis industry.

In this episode Senator Street, Joe Hodas and Bryan Murray, EVP of Communications and Government Relations for Acreage, discuss the balance between large multi-state operators (MSOs) and small craft cultivators in the cannabis industry. They emphasize the importance of creating a diverse market that includes both MSOs and smaller independent cultivators. They also touch on the current adult use bills in Pennsylvania and the need for a comprehensive social equity program. The episode concludes with a discussion on the definition and implementation of social equity in the cannabis industry.

Pennsylvania is at a crossroads in crafting cannabis legislation that could set new standards for regulation and industry practice. With the influx of expertise from seasoned growers and the progressive vision of Senator Sharif Street, the Keystone State is poised to lead in creating a blueprint for cannabis legalization that benefits producers, workers, and consumers alike.

Today our guests Steve Bevin and Brett Goldman of OCan Group, an advocacy group working to create global access to cannabinoids, join Senator Street and Joe Hodas to discuss the future of cannabis legalization and regulation in Pennsylvania. They advocate for treating cannabis as an agricultural crop, with the Department of Agriculture overseeing regulations. The goal is to create a robust market that benefits both small and large businesses while ensuring access to safe and affordable products. This episode offers valuable insights into the potential of Pennsylvania's cannabis market and the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework.

As conversations around cannabis legalization gain momentum in Pennsylvania, Senator Sharif Street, Joe Hodas and Chris Goldstein, a regional organizer for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), discuss the path forward. Their insights reveal the intricate dynamics at play, from political influences to the importance of social equity and grassroots advocacy in shaping policy.

One of the most significant themes to emerge from the transcript is the focus on social equity programs within cannabis legalization. Senator Street and Goldstein discuss the need for licensing, building knowledge bases, providing mentorship, and ensuring access to capital. Diving deeper into the social equity discussion, the necessity for knowledge dissemination and financial assistance emerges. Mentorship programs and training academies have been touted as solutions for bridging this knowledge gap. Pennsylvania is considering integrating similar approaches within its framework, inspired by successful initiatives in neighboring states.

Pennsylvania stands on the brink of transformative action in cannabis legislation, with discussions that carry the potential to shape the justice system and economic landscape of the state. In a detailed and enlightening conversation with State Representative Rick Krajewski, Joe Hodas and Senator Sharif Street, we are given a candid look into the intricate process of crafting a law that hopes to balance social equity, taxation, and education in ushering in recreational cannabis use.

Representative Krajewski makes a compelling argument that any framework for cannabis legalization in Pennsylvania should integrate criminal justice reform, specifically the expungement of past cannabis-related convictions. "If we don’t do that, we don’t fully address the social and racial equity component of it," Krajewski states, laying out the direct connection between expungement and the ability of previously criminalized individuals to enter the burgeoning industry. This inclusion in the legal canvas is not without its challenges, as Senator Street points out the need for bipartisan agreement to ensure such components are a part of the final legislation.

The future of cannabis is envisioned through a lens of globalization and diversity. Countries like Ghana are stepping into the cannabis market, creating a bridge with US communities. Today's guest, Cherron Perry-Thomas, underscores, "It's happening slowly," indicating that there's much work to be done in crafting an industry that doesn't mirror the exclusion suffered in the past. The transference of knowledge and land use rights are key aspects in ensuring inclusion and participation from communities on a global scale.

For communities in Pennsylvania and elsewhere, it remains paramount to acknowledge cannabis as a formidable vector for economic and social transformation. Legislators need to be made aware of the lived experiences that underline the pressing need for equitable cannabis legislation. This coversation between Senator Sharif Street, Joe Hodas and Cherron Thomas serves as a catalyst for change, envisioning a world where the cannabis industry thrives on inclusivity, community investment, and fair representation. The path toward a unified and equitable cannabis industry is laden with challenges, yet it promises empowerment and progressive change for local economies and marginalized communities worldwide.

Changing the perception of cannabis in the media industry requires educating journalists and newsrooms about the history and medicinal uses of the plant. In this episode, we have two special guests who are working to change perceptions and build equity in the cannabis industry. Co-host Joe Hodas from Wana speaks with Tauhid Chappel, an executive board member of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists, and Tsehaitu Abye, founder of the Black Dragon Breakfast Club, share their experiences and insights on the intersection of media, advocacy, and cannabis.

One of the key motivations behind Senate Bill 1028 is to address the racial disparities prevalent in cannabis-related arrests. In today's episode, Senator Street and Wana's Joe Hodas shed light on the importance of this bill and its potential impact on the lives of Pennsylvanians. We explore the resistance faced by the senator in pushing this bill forward, the role of the media in shaping public perception, and the broader implications of decriminalization. Let's dive into the details. Senator Street acknowledges that one of the biggest challenges in pushing for decriminalization is the lack of understanding among legislators. Many still hold onto outdated misconceptions perpetuated by the "reefer madness" era.

Over the years, the perception of cannabis has shifted from a fringe issue to a mainstream topic. With 33 states now having some form of legalization, there are lawyers, lobbyists, and business people involved in the industry. However, this evolution has also led to an identity crisis within the cannabis industry. Some see it as a movement for social change, while others view it as a business opportunity. The challenge is finding a balance between the two and recognizing the benefits that come with the industry's success.

Planting Seeds is the podcast where we dive deep into the issues surrounding cannabis legalization in Pennsylvania. Your co-host, Senator Sharif Street, will be discussing a range of topics, from social equity to the legislative process to best practices from around the country. Joining him on this journey is Joe Hodas, the Chief Marketing Officer for Wana Brands, one of the largest and most trusted edibles manufacturers in North America. Together, they will shed light on the path to creating one of the best legalized systems in the country.