"Tales from a Holistic Garden" is a captivating podcast that embarks on a unique journey, tracing the lifecycle of the OG Kush strain through our citizen science project, BLAZE. This podcast dives deep into the art and science of cultivation, bringing together insights from industry leaders, cultural histories, and the comprehensive world of cannabis. It advocates for the empowering experience of growing one's own medicine, particularly through outdoor methods.
From discussions on pot and politics to medicinal miracles and the global cannabis narrative, we explore every facet of the plant. Our episodes feature exclusive interviews with luminaries such as Jeff Lowenfells, Jorge Cervantes, Dr. Riley Kirk, Ben Lind, Bess Byers, Dr. Pepper Hernandez, Luna Stower, and many more. "Sun Grown Stories" promises an enlightening exploration of why everyone, who can, should consider cultivating their own cannabis, highlighting its benefits, cultural significance, and the transformative journey of growing from seed to soul.
S1E14: IPM Secrets (with Brandon Rust and Holt Crowder!)
Wednesday, September 11, 2024 • Duration 01:24:15
Welcome back to Sun Grown Stories with your host, Alexandria Irons, founder of Queen of the Sun Grown. This week, we’re talking about the not-so-glamorous side of gardening—pests! But don’t worry, we’ve got integrated pest management (IPM) to save the day. Join Alexandria as she explores how plant hormones, natural predators, and a few well-timed sprays can keep your plants thriving and your garden protected from pests.
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of YUCCA at [QueenoftheSungrown.com]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sun Grown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery. Join us next time for more insights and stories from the world of c a n n a b i s. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.
Join us as we sit down with Tom "Seedsman" Raikes, the founder and CEO of the renowned Seedsman brand, for an engaging conversation about his journey through the c a n n a industry. From navigating tricky legal landscapes to pioneering innovations in genetics, Tom shares the stories and lessons learned along the way. Whether you're interested in the business side of c a n n a n i s or just curious about the industry's evolution, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes.
Key Topics:
--The Name Game: How Tom's surname became a unique legal advantage.
--Navigating Legal Hurdles: The strategies Tom used to operate within the complex cannabis laws in Spain and the UK.
--Building a Legacy: How passion turned into a global business.
--Auto-Flowering Innovations: The genetic developments that set Seedsman apart.
--Challenges and Triumphs: The realities of running a successful company.
Takeaways:
--The c a n n a b i s industry is full of unexpected challenges and opportunities.
--Innovation and adaptability are crucial to staying ahead in a rapidly changing market.
--Success often comes from a combination of passion, persistence, and creative problem-solving.
Tune in for an insightful discussion with one of the leading figures in the cannabis industry, and learn about the unique journey that led to Seedsman's success.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
S1 E3: Germination and Growth (Featuring Jeff Lowenfels, Dr. Gary Yates, & Kimmie Mullen!)
Monday, March 18, 2024 • Duration 59:50
Get ready for an illuminating journey into the heart of plant evolution and soil health in our upcoming episode of Sun Grown Stories! Here's a sneak peek at what's in store:
🌿 Episode Preview: The Soil Food Web and Seedling Secrets
Join us as we uncover the intricate relationship between plants and the microbial world beneath our feet. From the fascinating evolution of seed plants to the vital role of beneficial microorganisms, we'll delve deep into the unseen world that sustains our gardens.
📚 Special Guest Spotlight: Jeff Lowenfels
Join us as we dive into a captivating conversation with Jeff Lowenfels, the mastermind behind the revolutionary "Teaming With" series. Explore his insights into the hidden world of soil microbiology and the symbiotic relationships that drive plant health
Discover the key factors influencing successful seed germination and seedling growth. From moisture levels to the magic of cotyledons, we'll uncover the secrets to nurturing robust, healthy plants from the very beginning.
🌎 Regenerating Our Earth: Composting and Soil Health
We discuss the difference between potting mix and soil, and why understanding this distinction is crucial for every gardener. Plus, learn how you can start composting today to regenerate your native soil and cultivate thriving gardens.
🌟 Special Announcement: Blaze Citizen Science Grow Along Project
Exciting news! We'll be unveiling details about the Blaze Citizen Science Grow Along project, where you can join us in a hands-on exploration of cannabis cultivation. Don't miss this opportunity to grow and learn together!
🎙️ Upcoming Episode Teaser: The Lineage of OG Kush
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
S1 E2: Women of Weed (Featuring Dr. Riley Kirk, Luna Stower, Bess Byers & Kimi Mullen!)
Saturday, March 9, 2024 • Duration 46:04
Welcome to "SungGrown Stories," where we dive deep into the heart of cannabis cultivation, sustainability, and the incredible individuals shaping the industry. In today's episode, "Women of Weed," we're celebrating Women's Day by shining a light on the vital role of female cannabis plants and the trailblazing women in the cannabis field.
Episode Highlights:
- The Importance of Female Cannabis Plants - Learn why female plants are crucial for producing seedless, high-quality cannabis flowers, and explore the history and science behind feminized seeds. (Season 1, Episode 2)
- Spotlight on Women in Cannabis - Hear from several influential women making waves across various sectors of the cannabis industry, from commercial cultivation and medicinal research to brand building, political activism, and more.
---- >Kimmie Mullen of Jackalope Farms shares her journey and innovative cultivation techniques in Oklahoma, highlighting the sustainability and resilience of hugelkultur.
---->Dr. Riley Kirk, a cannabis scientist and educator, discusses bridging the gap in consumer education and advocating for cannabis through science.
---- >Luna Stower talks about her work in fostering corporate social responsibility and supporting legacy growers and small cannabis operations.
---- >Bess Byers (Canna Bess), combines her passion for photography, cannabis advocacy, and political journalism to influence positive changes in cannabis policies.
Grow Along with Queen of the Sun Grown
Join us in our Grow Along initiative, part of the Blaze Botanical Latitude and Zone Evaluation project, aimed at developing outdoor growing zones specific to cannabis. Learn how you can contribute or participate in this groundbreaking research.
Next Episode Preview:
Don't miss our next episode focused on seed germination and creating the perfect environment for your seedlings. Get expert tips and tricks to ensure your cannabis plants have the best start possible.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
S1 E1 - Seeds of Controversy (Featuring Jorge Cervantes, Ben Lind, and Dr Riley Kirk!)
Saturday, March 2, 2024 • Duration 49:35
In this episode, we explores the roots of cannabis, the history of cannabis criminalization, the controversy surrounding cannabis seeds, the importance of growing and preserving genetics, the Blaze Botanical Latitude and Zonal Evaluation Citizen Science Project, the stigma and controversy of triploid cannabis seeds, the impact of cannabis cultivation on the monarch butterfly and biodiversity, the benefits of outdoor cannabis cultivation, and the contributions of women in the cannabis industry.
Takeaways-Cannabis has a rich history dating back thousands of years and has been used for various purposes in different cultures.-The war on drugs and cannabis criminalization have disproportionately affected marginalized communities.-There is controversy surrounding triploid cannabis seeds, but they offer potential benefits in terms of higher yields and seedless cannabis.-Growing and preserving genetics is important for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring the availability of diverse cannabis strains.-Outdoor cannabis cultivation has been found to have higher levels of secondary metabolites and a greater diversity of compounds compared to indoor cultivation.-The monarch butterfly population is declining, and planting milkweed can help support their survival.-Women have made significant contributions to the cannabis industry and continue to play a vital role in its development.
Chapters 00:00The Roots of Cannabis09:22The War on Drugs and Cannabis Criminalization13:07The Controversy Surrounding Cannabis Seeds25:38The Blaze Botanical Latitude and Zonal Evaluation Citizen Science Project27:03The Stigma and Controversy of Triploid Cannabis SeedsThe Monarch Butterfly and BiodiversityThe Benefits of Outdoor Cannabis CultivationWomen of Weed
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Sun Grown Stories Prelude Episode
Saturday, February 10, 2024 • Duration 22:34
In this prelude episode, the host introduces herself and her background in cultivation. She shares her passion for teaching people how to grow their own medicine and the benefits of doing so. The host then explains the concept of a citizen science project and what BLAZE aims to bring to the community. She invites listeners to participate in the project, with FREE SEEDS from The Humboldt Seed Company. The host also gives an overview of the podcast format and the guests who will be featured. She concludes with a call to action for listeners to sign up and participate in the project.
TakeawaysGrowing your own medicine can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to obtain medicine. Citizen science projects can help gather valuable data and create growing zones for sun grown cultivation. The podcast will feature interviews, discussions, and educational content related to sun grown cultivation.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background03:13 - Transition to Teaching Cannabis Cultivation04:35 - Introduction to the Citizen Science Project08:54 - Purpose of the Podcast09:20 - Explanation of Triploid and Diploid Cannabis Seeds15:44 - Participation in the Citizen Science Project18:52 - Excitement for the Project and Season Outline20:51 - Call to Support and Be a Part of Cannabis History21:47 - Conclusion and Invitation to Participate
Botanical Latitude and Zone Evaluation ventures beyond traditional Grow-Alongs. It stands as a beacon of citizen science, dedicated to mapping the intricacies of cultivation across diverse climates, hardiness zones, and latitudes. Your participation in BLAZE is more than just growing alongside peers; it's a valuable contribution towards crafting a comprehensive guide for sun grown cultivation worldwide. Engage with us in this unique endeavor. Together, we will not only share in the journey of growth but also in the pioneering task of delineating growing zones tailored for sun grown.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Last Year's Interview with Purple Caper
Saturday, February 3, 2024 • Duration 55:53
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sungrown.substack.com
S1E12: The Patient and the Plant (Featuring Megan Bauer!)
Monday, July 29, 2024 • Duration 01:00:30
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Sun Grown Stories, we are joined by Megan Bauer, an advocate and professional in the cannabis industry, to discuss her personal journey and professional experiences with cannabis as a therapeutic option. Megan shares her insights on the benefits of cannabis, her educational background, and her commitment to educating others about the therapeutic uses of cannabis.
-The cannabis queen from Northern California, now reigning in Oregon.
-Got her MBA from OSU and loves speech and debate – because arguing is fun!
Cannabis Saves the Day:
-Megan’s brother had monster migraines. Pharma failed. Cannabis to the rescue!
-Convinced skeptical parents that weed is not just for rebellious teens.
Career Highs:
-10 years in the cannabis industry – from growing to selling to making cool educational stuff.
Graduated from the University of Maryland with a Master’s in Cannabis Science and Therapeutics. Fancy, right?
PTSD and Cannabis:
-Megan’s escape from seven (yes, SEVEN!) pharmaceuticals with the help of cannabis and holistic practices.
-Preaches the gospel of integrating weed with diet, exercise, and good vibes.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
S1E11 - Price of Pot (Featuring Nelson Lindsley & the CEO of Hemp Lucid, Nathan Beckham!)
Tuesday, July 9, 2024 • Duration 01:15:45
Episode Overview:
Welcome to a new episode of Sun Grown Stories, where we unravel the high history and green economy of cannabis. This time, we have a hemp-hero and a cannabis-craftsman to help us weed through the facts.
- Ancient Tokes: Cannabis was all the rage in ancient China and Israel. Even medieval Europeans were high on hemp for ropes and textiles!
- Medieval Munchies: Hashish was the medieval world's Netflix and chill.
- Pharmacy Pot: In the 19th century, you could buy weed at your local apothecary. Talk about a high street!
- Prohibition Problems: The 1937 Marijuana Tax Act made weed illegal, pushing it to the black market and giving law enforcement a headache.
Modern Market Madness:
- Legalization Boom: From illegal to billion-dollar industry, cannabis is creating jobs and generating tax revenue faster than you can say "roll it up."
- Price Check: Tokyo tops the charts at $32.66 per gram, while Quito keeps it cheap at $1.34. The Big Apple loves its green with NYC consuming 77.4 metric tons annually.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
S1E10: Cultivation Science with Dr Gary Yates!
Tuesday, June 11, 2024 • Duration 01:30:27
In this episode, Alexandria Irons chats with Dr. Gary Yates, the plant genetics guru, about his wild ride into the cannabis world. Gary geeks out on genetics, quality control, and his undying love for adaptable plants. He spills the beans on how to judge cannabis studies and offers seed germination hacks. They dive into the juicy stuff about genetic diversity, busting the myth of indica vs. sativa vs. ruderalis classifications, and the magical impact of the environment on cannabis. Dr. Yates dishes advice on picking the right genetics for different climates and navigating the seed market maze. They wrap up with a hot take on UK cannabis regulations and the push for letting folks grow their own medical weed.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Related Shows Based on Content Similarities
Discover shows related to Sun Grown Stories, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of YUCCA at [QueenoftheSungrown.com]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sun Grown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery.
Join us next time for more insights and stories from the world of c a n n a b i s. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.
Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll unravel the fascinating lineage of OG Kush. From its origins to its impact on modern cannabis culture, this promises to be an episode you won't want to miss!
Thank you for being a vital part of our Sun Grown journey!
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of Yucca root extract powder at [QueenoftheSungrown.com.]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
Thank You: A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sungrown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery.
Join us next week for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.
Botanical Latitude and Zone Evaluation ventures beyond traditional Grow-Alongs. It stands as a beacon of citizen science, dedicated to mapping the intricacies of cultivation across diverse climates, hardiness zones, and latitudes. Your participation in BLAZE is more than just growing alongside peers; it's a valuable contribution towards crafting a comprehensive guide for sun grown cultivation worldwide. Engage with us in this unique endeavor. Together, we will not only share in the journey of growth but also in the pioneering task of delineating growing zones tailored for sun grown.
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of YUCCA at [QueenoftheSungrown.com]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sun Grown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery.
Join us next time for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of YUCCA at [QueenoftheSungrown.com]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sun Grown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery.
Join us next time for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.
*When choosing genetics for your locale, consider hardiness, structure, flowering time, and adaptability.
*The seed market is a jungle—do your homework to snag top-notch genetics and dodge the fakes.
*UK cannabis regulations are tight, but there’s a push to let medical users grow their own weed without fear.
Support Sun Grown Stories:
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of YUCCA at [QueenoftheSungrown.com.]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
Thank You: A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sungrown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery.
Join us next week for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.
