"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.
Microbes: Bacteria and Fungi, Oh My! (With Jeff Lowenfel!) SGS S1 E15
Tuesday, November 5, 2024 • Duration 56:33
In this packed episode, our host Alexandria Irons welcomes soil guru Jeff Lowenfels, author of the famed Teaming series, to explore the deep-rooted mysteries of soil microbiomes, regenerative gardening, and the joys of growing—especially under Alaska’s unique lighting quirks!
Teaming with Soil WisdomJeff breaks down the secrets of soil science from his four-part Teaming series, making microbiology approachable—and even humorous!
Alaska’s Daylight ChallengeJeff discusses gardening in Alaska’s extreme daylight, making autoflowering cannabis a local favorite.
Compost ShowdownVermicompost vs. thermal? Jeff hints at fun experiments to boost cannabis growth with homemade compost.
Going Green: Bio-Controls & Plastic-Free GardensJeff and Alex discuss bio-controls like bacillus and emphasize the need to reduce plastic use in gardening.
“Plant a Row for the Hungry”Inspired by this initiative, Jeff encourages listeners to grow food for those in need and spread the gardening love.
Join us as we talk about compost, roots, and creativity in the garden with Jeff Lowenfels, where science meets a good laugh, and where gardening wisdom goes a little deeper than your typical dirt.
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.
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
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.
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
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
S1 E9: Explosive Growth - Nitrogen Stories (Featuring the Soil Doctor Bryant!)
Monday, May 27, 2024 • Duration 01:09:40
In this episode, Alexandria Irons gives us the lowdown on her latest adventures, including a bumpy move to a new farm and an even bumpier car accident. She then dives into the nitty-gritty of explosive growth and nitrogen management with the Soil Doctor , Bryant, himself. They chat about the nitrogen cycle, its ecological impact, and the age-old debate of synthetic versus organic nitrogen. You'll get a crash course in soil testing, various nitrogen forms, and the importance of mixing it up for your plants. They cover everything from organic amendments to composting, foliar feeding, and eco-friendly gardening, along with a sneak peek at the Blaze Grow Along project. The debate over synthetic versus organic cultivation heats up, but they stress the importance of keeping things civil in the cannabis community.
*The nitrogen cycle is like Mother Nature's circulatory system, keeping everything in balance and making sure plants don't throw a tantrum.
*Knowing your nitrogen forms—nitrate, ammonium, and amino acids—is as crucial as knowing the difference between sugar and salt in your kitchen.
*Soil testing and using a mix of nitrogen sources are key to keeping your garden green and guilt-free.
*Synthetic nitrogen's history is like a soap opera with plot twists affecting agriculture and ecology, reminding us to keep it natural and holistic.
*Tuning into your local environment and using tools like soil tests are essential for keeping your plants happy and your soil healthy.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Ep 8: Where Research Can Take the Plant (Featuring Dr. Riley Kirk!)
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 • Duration 01:17:12
Dr. Riley Kirk and Alexandria Irons light up a chat about using social media for research and community outreach, the perks of cannabis as medicine, why growing weed outdoors is lit, and why ladies in the weed world are blazing trails. Plus, they dive into personalized medicine and the potential of isolates in pot products. They swap stories and nod to the need for educating consumers and backing small farms. And of course, Alex reminds us to trust local growers and recognize the healing magic of cannabis.
Takeaways
*Dr. Riley Kirk uses social media to effectively communicate complex scientific information about cannabis
*Cannabis is a natural compound that can be used as medicine, and its benefits are supported by scientific research
*Consumer education about cannabis is important, but can be challenging due to the legal status of the plant
*Personalized medicine is key in finding the right cannabis strains and products for individual needs
*Women in the cannabis industry and academia face challenges, but also find support and camaraderie among each other Women-led businesses in the cannabis industry are thriving and bringing unique perspectives and leadership qualities.
*Community-based research is crucial for filling gaps in cannabis knowledge and understanding the needs of consumers.
*Outdoor cultivation of cannabis produces a greater diversity of secondary metabolites and terpenes compared to indoor cultivation.
*Supporting small, regenerative farms is important for preserving biodiversity and ensuring high-quality cannabis.
*Cannabis can be a powerful tool for building connections and fostering a sense of community.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
S1E6: The Plant & The People (Featuring Dr. Pepper Hernandez and Luna Stower!)
Saturday, April 20, 2024 • Duration 01:18:34
Hold onto your gardening gloves! In this episode, Alexandria Irons dishes out the dirt on minerals and why they're the real MVPs for both plants and humans. From the basics like hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen, to the rockstars nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, she covers all 18 essential minerals plants need to thrive.
But that's not all – she'll also clue you in on the crucial roles of calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and micronutrients, and how they're the unsung heroes of plant growth.
Then, get ready for a fertilizer face-off between organic and synthetic, as she weighs in on sustainability and finding that perfect balance for a healthy planet.
And if you thought that was it, hold onto your pot plants! Alex shares her own journey with cannabis as medicine and drops some wisdom on the miracles she's seen firsthand.
Don't miss updates on the Blaze Botanical Latitude Grow Along and a sneak peek at our next episode – where we'll be delving into the high-flying world of the cannabis economy!
Takeaways:
**Plants are like high-maintenance divas, needing a whopping 18 essential nutrients for their big show – think of them as the rock stars of the garden!
**It's all about the microbial magic show when it comes to plant nutrition – those little critters are like the chefs in the plant's kitchen, whipping up nutrients for a gourmet meal.
**Organic nutrients cozy up with fulvic acid and kelp like they're on a tropical vacation, while synthetic ones strut in like they own the place, already pre-chelated and ready to party.
**Microbes aren't just the plant's wingmen – they're the bouncers too, keeping out the riff-raff like pests and pathogens from crashing the party.
**Think of minerals like plant Tinder matches – it's all about compatibility and chemistry for a swipe-right kind of relationship.
**Balancing plant nutrients is like being a DJ at a plant party – you gotta mix it up just right for those plants to dance their way to optimal growth and yield.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
S1 E5: Regenerating Your Soil & Community (Featuring Jeff Lowenfels, Luna Stower, Dr. Pepper Hernandez, Kimmie Mullen & Jorge Cervantes!)
Sunday, April 7, 2024 • Duration 56:43
Summary:
Get ready to dig deep into the dirt and uncover the hilarious world of soil and communities in this episode! From the soil food web to compost capers, we cover it all. Our guests spill the beans on everything from the law of return to the scandalous connection between soil and forest health. And who could forget Alexandria Irons, sharing her secrets to success in regenerative farming, complete with poop anecdotes and the importance of furry friends in land management. Plus, we've got tips for soil prep and the inside scoop on BLAZE, the coolest citizen science project out there!
Takeaways:
*Regenerative gardening: where plants and microbes party together!
*Compost: the life of the soil party, keeping it funky.
*Watch out for human shenanigans – plastics and chemicals are the party poopers.
*Sustainability and regenerative living: keeping the planet grooving.
*Know your soil's style: texture and the soil food web are the ultimate gardening hacks.
*Planting straight into the ground? Look out for underground party crashers!
*Poop talk: it's the secret sauce of regenerative farming!
*Animals: the unsung heroes of regenerative farming.
*Let's support legacy growers and promote social equity in the cannabis industry.
*Giving back to the community: the ultimate garden party favor.
*Soil prep 101: organic matter, texture, and pest protection – gardening made fabulous.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
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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.
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.
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.
*Understanding organic amendments and nitrogen sources is a must if you want your cannabis to grow like a champ.
*Composting and foliar feeding are the secret sauces for plant nutrition—think of them as your plants' daily vitamins.
*Different cultivation methods have varying ecological impacts, so let's keep the conversation positive and productive within the cannabis community.
*The Blaze Grow Along project has the potential to gather some epic data on cannabis cultivation—let's blaze trails, not just trails!
Support Sungrown 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% 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.
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% 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.
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 Stoner for 42% off all online Holistic Horticulture classes 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.
*13:23 - Addressing Soil Degradation and Plastic Pollution
*26:21 - The Benefits of Planting in the Ground
*28:09 - Taking a Holistic Approach to Gardening
*29:06 - Utilizing Animal Waste in Regenerative Farming
*31:03 - The Role of Animals in Land Management
*32:44 - The Environmental Impact of Factory Farming
*34:40 - Regeneration Beyond the Garden
*44:42 - Supporting Social Equity in the Cannabis Industry
*53:45 - The BLAZE Citizen Science Project Update
Support Sungrown 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 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.
