In this episode of the Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe interviews Edgar Pena, known as Masonic Smoker, who shares his journey in cannabis cultivation. The conversation covers his early gardening influences, the transition to cannabis, breeding techniques, and the importance of maintaining genetic diversity. Masonic Smoker discusses the challenges and lessons learned from setbacks, as well as his laid-back approach to pest management and the art of hash making. The episode emphasizes the joy of gardening and the personal growth that comes from cultivating plants. In this conversation, Masonic Smoker and Nick Wolfe delve into the intricacies of cannabis cultivation, discussing plant health, mold issues, and effective phenohunting techniques. Masonic shares his journey from struggling with resources to now having a robust network and tools for successful growing. They explore the importance of prevention in cultivation, the significance of free seed day in the community, and the trends in flavor profiles among cannabis strains. Masonic emphasizes the value of transparency in breeding practices and the joy of sharing knowledge and genetics with fellow growers. The conversation wraps up with personal anecdotes about memorable experiences in the cannabis world and insights into favorite strains and breeders.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Masonic Smoker03:02 Focus on Breeding and Strain Development06:09 Growing Techniques and Personal Gardening Journey09:10 Early Influences and Family Gardening Background11:54 Transition to Cannabis Cultivation15:04 Learning and Evolving as a Grower18:02 Current Growing Methods and Soil Preferences21:17 Cloning and Keeping Genetics Alive29:03 Balancing Passion and Practicality in Gardening31:00 Lessons Learned: Successes and Setbacks in Growing31:55 The Importance of Humility and Simplicity in Gardening35:07 Innovative Techniques: Hash Making and Efficient Tools36:57 Intake Methods: Preventing Pests and Pathogens42:19 Dealing with Pests: Experiences and Strategies47:03 Phenohunting Practices: Identifying Growth Patterns and Aromas56:37 Advice for New Growers: Transparency and Realism in Cultivation59:28 The Art of Seed Breeding01:02:19 Navigating the Cultivation Industry01:07:03 The Concept of Free Seed Day01:12:27 Trends in Flavor Profiles01:16:37 Personal Favorites and Memorable Experiences

In this episode of the Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe interviews Zac Ricciardi, a cannabis grower and advocate for cleanly grown cannabis. Zac shares his journey from early gardening experiences with his grandfather to his current role at BioSafe, where he focuses on promoting cleanliness and sustainability in cannabis cultivation. The conversation delves into the medicinal benefits of cannabis, the challenges faced by growers in navigating regulations, and the importance of innovative techniques and a synganic approach to growing. Zac emphasizes the need for cleanliness in the industry and shares valuable insights from his experiences in both commercial and home growing. In this conversation, Nick Wolfe and Zac The Grow Guy delve into various aspects of cannabis cultivation, discussing the importance of circadian rhythms, microbial influences on terpene production, and the role of nutrients in flavor profiles. They explore the limitations of genetic potential, current trends in the cannabis industry, and the growing concern of waterborne pathogens. The discussion also covers effective water treatment methods, challenges in cannabis cultivation, and the significance of continuous learning for growers. Zac shares valuable resources for cannabis growers and emphasizes the need for community and collaboration in the industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zach Riccardi and His Journey05:42 Early Experiences with Cannabis09:18 The Evolution of Cannabis Understanding10:49 Learning from Mentors in Santa Cruz12:49 Transitioning to Commercial Cannabis20:09 Challenges in the Cannabis Industry24:58 The Misconceptions of Organic Growing28:07 Synganic Approach to Growing34:39 Transitioning to BioSafe34:54 From Social Media to Industry Specialist36:25 Building a Cannabis Division at BioSafe38:00 Challenges in Integrated Pest Management (IPM)40:02 The Importance of Cleanliness in Cannabis Cultivation41:38 Organic Approaches and Sustainable Practices42:54 Personal Gardening Experiences and Lessons Learned45:31 Techniques for Successful Cannabis Cultivation51:49 The Role of Microbes and Amino Acids in Growth56:08 Genetic Potential and Its Impact on Cultivation58:04 Trends in the Cannabis Industry: Adaptability and Challenges01:00:51 Water Treatment Solutions for Cannabis Cultivation01:07:31 Irrigation Systems and Microbial Management01:11:39 Understanding zerotol and Its Applications01:13:28 Common Pitfalls for Growers01:17:06 The Importance of Continuous Learning01:20:15 Resources for Growers01:25:18 The Role of Community in Cannabis Cultivation01:29:21 Final Thoughts and Personal ExperiencesYour guests for today is:https://instagram.com/zacthegrowguy_biosafefind more of his work at:https://cleangrowers.substack.comyou can find my work at:https://patreon.com/c/user?u=65192814andhttps://instagram.com/mrwolfegrowsandhttps://instagram.com/thewaywegrowpodcastandhttps://instagram.com/craftgrowersnetworkand on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/@Craftgrowersnetwork

In this episode of the Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe interviews Jason Lampman, the owner of the smallest cannabis farm in Oregon. They discuss Jason's journey in the cannabis industry, his numerous awards, and the challenges of small batch farming. Jason shares his early experiences with gardening, the influence of music on his farming philosophy, and the importance of community education in breaking the stigma surrounding cannabis. The conversation highlights the dedication and passion required to succeed in the cannabis industry, emphasizing quality, flavor, and the personal connection to the plants. In this conversation, Jason Lampman shares his journey from the Midwest to Humboldt, California, where he immersed himself in the cannabis culture and learned the art of cultivation. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the evolution of growing techniques, and the challenges of navigating the legal landscape of cannabis. Jason also highlights his transition to Oregon, where he became actively involved in advocacy and legislative engagement, pushing for changes that benefit small cannabis businesses. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, knowledge sharing, and the ongoing evolution of the cannabis industry.00:00 Introduction to Small Batch Farming09:05 Growing Up with Plants: A Personal History22:21 The Transition to Intentional Growing28:35 Journey to Humboldt: A New Beginning39:45 Lessons from the Emerald Triangle58:08 Transitioning to Oregon: New Opportunities01:05:23 Understanding the Legal Framework01:10:23 Advocacy and Legislative Engagement01:17:56 Successes in Cannabis Legislation01:25:04 The Future of Cannabis Sales01:33:40 The Journey of Winning Awards01:39:50 The Art of Strain Selection and Breeding01:45:40 Navigating the Cannabis Market and Consumer Expectations01:51:42 Community Support and Education

In this episode of The Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe interviews Drew Mattison, a seasoned cannabis grower who shares his extensive journey in the cannabis industry. Drew discusses his early experiences growing cannabis in Colorado, the challenges he faced with temperature and humidity management, and the innovations that have transformed the growing landscape. He emphasizes the importance of understanding environmental factors and the role of technology in modern cultivation. Drew also reflects on the differences in cannabis laws between Colorado and other states, and shares insights into his current growing practices and aspirations for the future. In this conversation, Drew shares his extensive experience in cannabis cultivation, transitioning from home growing to commercial operations, and the evolution of the industry over the past 30 years. He discusses pest control, retail hydroponics, and the importance of cleanliness in growing environments. Drew also emphasizes the significance of embracing new technologies while maintaining a hands-on approach to cultivation. He offers valuable advice for new growers and reflects on his favorite strains and memorable experiences in the cannabis community.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Drew Madison's Cannabis Journey

06:00Early Growing Experiences and Challenges

12:58Learning from Early Successes and Failures

19:08Innovations in Growing Techniques and Technology

27:19The Impact of Colorado's Cannabis Laws

34:09Personal Connection to Gardening and Cannabis

37:43Growing in Costa Rica: Challenges and Opportunities

39:56Advanced Growing Techniques and Climate Control

42:54Dealing with Pests: Russet Mites and Solutions

54:08Transitioning from Home Grower to Commercial Cultivator

01:01:12The Evolution of Cannabis Consumption: From Flower to Concentrates

01:02:08Organic vs. Hydroponic Growing: A Personal Journey

01:06:08Innovative Techniques for Maximizing Yield

01:12:01The Importance of Plant Management

01:12:58Leaf Clipping Techniques and Strain Variability

01:15:40Trends in Cannabis Cultivation

01:18:53The Role of Automation in Growing

01:21:30Common Pitfalls in Cannabis Cultivation

01:24:58Innovative Solutions for Growers

01:27:07Advice for New Growers

01:30:39Favorite Strains and Breeders

01:39:23Memorable Cannabis Experiences

In this conversation, Jarret Richie shares his journey from being a secondary school teacher to becoming a cannabis consultant with Next Big Crop. He discusses the evolution of the cannabis industry, the challenges of client expectations, and the dynamics of the Oklahoma cannabis market. Jarret emphasizes the importance of genetics in cultivation and introduces his I Party with Jarret collection. He also provides insights on setting up a home grow and the significance of consistency in cultivation practices. In this conversation, Nick Wolfe and Jarret discuss various aspects of cannabis cultivation, including nutrient management, environmental factors, and the importance of education in the industry. They share insights on setting up home grows, current trends in cannabis, and the challenges faced by consultants in the field. The discussion also touches on the differences between craft and commercial operations, memorable experiences in cannabis, and advice for new growers. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building a supportive community and the value of continuous learning in the cannabis industry.

chapters:

00:00 From Counter to Consulting: Jarret's Journey

06:49 Building Facilities: The Next Big Crop Experience

09:47 Navigating Client Expectations and Market Realities

14:30 The Oklahoma Cannabis Boom: Lessons Learned

22:45 Curating Cannabis Genetics: The I Party with Jarret Collection

33:43 Genetic Testing and Plant Vigor

34:48 Breeding and Seed Cycles

37:10 Tissue Culture and Precision Gardening

39:21 Cloning Techniques and Consistency

41:22 Planning and Problem Solving in Gardening

43:05 Reflection and Continuous Improvement

45:04 Data-Driven Decisions in Cultivation

47:16 Creative Problem Solving in Gardening

48:28 Team Dynamics in Cultivation

52:16 Personal Journey with Plants

01:02:54 Simplicity in Hydroponics

01:05:17 Setting Up a Home Grow Tent

01:11:53 Clones vs. Seeds for Beginners

01:22:22 Consultation Challenges in the Cannabis Industry

01:30:05 The Value of Craft Grows

01:31:27 The Importance of a Happy Staff

01:34:22 Market Dynamics and Price Trends

01:35:24 Successes and Failures in Cultivation

01:43:32 Teaching and Learning in Cannabis Cultivation

01:50:18 Advice for New Growers

01:57:21 Finding the Right Fit in the Cannabis Industry

01:59:24 The Importance of Cleanliness in Cannabis Cultivation

02:01:15 Networking and Learning in the Cannabis Industry

02:03:05 The Role of Expertise in Problem Solving

02:04:33 The Evolution of Cannabis Cultivation

02:06:34 Building Relationships in the Cannabis Community

02:09:15 Memorable Experiences in Cannabis Cultivation

02:16:43 Favorite Strains and Breeders

02:20:39 Memorable Cannabis Experiences

In this episode of The Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe engages with Dog Doctor, a passionate cannabis grower, discussing various aspects of cannabis cultivation. They explore innovations in growing techniques, the importance of soil and nutrients, managing environmental factors, and the evolution of cannabis cultivation. Dog Doctor shares unique practices, pest management strategies, and the impact of experience on the quality of the harvest. The conversation also delves into the significance of terpenes and cannabinoids, and the future of cannabis cultivation with emerging technologies. In this engaging conversation, DogDoctorOfficial shares insights on the challenges and rewards of home cannabis cultivation. He emphasizes the importance of patience, innovative techniques, and environmental control in achieving successful growth. The discussion also touches on the significance of community acceptance and the need to demystify cannabis. DogDoctorOfficial reflects on memorable experiences with cannabis and advocates for a more open dialogue about its benefits and uses.00:00 Introduction and Current Growing Trends03:15 Exploring Growing Techniques and Mistakes06:12 Soil vs. Hydroponics: A Grower's Perspective09:14 The Benefits of Under Canopy Lighting11:57 Nutrient Management and EC Levels15:07 Pest Management Innovations18:06 The Journey into Cannabis Cultivation21:01 Unique Growing Techniques and Practices42:49 Nutrient Management and Plant Health43:15 Innovative Watering Techniques44:54 Substrate Monitoring and Data Utilization48:45 The Cost of Growing Cannabis50:44 Evolving as a Grower54:11 The Tyranny of Numbers in Cannabis56:20 The Balance of Cannabinoids and Terpenes01:04:31 Patience in Growing01:07:43 Lessons from Failures and Successes01:16:59 Implementing Mycorrhizal Fungi for Growth01:21:33 Optimizing Cannabis Growth and Quality01:24:59 Managing Environmental Factors for Healthy Plants01:30:32 Understanding Temperature and Humidity Dynamics01:36:48 The Importance of Research in Cannabis Cultivation01:42:09 Advocating for Cannabis Legalization and Acceptance01:51:40 Personal Experiences and Perspectives on Cannabis

In this episode of the Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe engages with Dr. Tassa Saldi and Dr. Alfonso Garido-Lecca from TUMi Genomics. They discuss their backgrounds in plant science and cannabis research, focusing on the importance of understanding pathogens like hoplate viroid in cannabis cultivation. The conversation highlights the need for effective testing and prevention strategies for growers, emphasizing that knowledge and proactive measures can mitigate the risks associated with these pathogens. TUMi Genomics aims to provide comprehensive solutions for both home and commercial growers, helping them navigate the complexities of plant health and pathogen management. In this conversation, Tumi and Nick delve into the intricacies of cannabis cultivation, focusing on the importance of maintaining plant health, understanding viroids, and implementing effective pathogen prevention strategies. They discuss seed treatment methods, the significance of quarantine areas for new plants, and the role of vectors in pathogen transmission. The conversation also touches on the challenges of reusing substrates in living soil systems and the potential of tissue culture for pathogen remediation. Additionally, they explore the stigma surrounding cannabis use in professional settings and share personal experiences with different cultivars, emphasizing the social connections fostered through cannabis culture.Chapters00:00 Introduction to TUMi Genomics and Guests02:53 Backgrounds of Tasa and Alfonso: A Journey with Plants11:46 Alfonso's Unique Path to Cannabis Science17:56 Understanding Hops Late Viroid: Research and Implications25:06 Identifying Symptoms of Hops Late Viroid in Cannabis32:09 Impact of Hops Late Viroid on Flower Quality37:51 Understanding Plant Symptoms and Pathogens43:34 The Role of Tumi Genomics in Cannabis Cultivation50:14 Innovations in Pathogen Testing Technology55:39 Best Practices for Preventing Pathogen Spread01:00:31 Effective Cleaning and Decontamination Methods01:13:46 Understanding Pathogen Vectors01:18:34 Cloning and Media Concerns01:20:43 Living Soil and Viroid Management01:27:22 Tissue Culture Insights01:30:02 Cannabis Use and Stigma01:36:25 Cultivar Preferences and Resistance01:43:23 Memorable Cannabis Experiences

SummaryIn this conversation, Gaby Bronsztein discusses his journey in the cannabis industry, focusing on his relationship with VA Skunk. He shares the origins of their friendship, the fallout from a breeding project, and the subsequent reconciliation. Gaby emphasizes the importance of documenting personal and family stories while navigating the complexities of professional relationships in the cannabis community. In this conversation, Gaby Bronsztein discusses the challenges he faced in reclaiming his cannabis genetics, particularly the Chem Dog strain, after losing his collection in a wild fire. He details his attempts to collaborate with Jason, the current holder of the Chem Dog, and the ensuing personal conflicts that arose from their interactions. The conversation highlights themes of ownership, legacy, and the complexities of relationships within the cannabis community, especially in the context of social media disputes and public perceptions.TakeawaysGaby Bronsztein shares his journey in the cannabis industry.He discusses a long-standing conflict with VA Skunk.The fallout from a breeding project led to a 15-year silence.Gaby emphasizes the importance of documenting family stories.He reflects on the complexities of professional relationships.The conversation highlights the significance of communication.Gaby expresses gratitude for the support from his audience.He acknowledges the challenges of remembering past events accurately.The podcast serves as a platform for personal storytelling.Gaby is excited about future collaborations in the cannabis space. Gaby lost all his cannabis genetics in a fire.He has a long-standing friendship with Jason but faces challenges in collaboration.Gaby feels entitled to the Chem Dog strain he originally provided to Jason.Negotiations over the Chem Dog have led to personal conflicts.Social media plays a significant role in their disputes.Gaby expresses frustration over Jason's public comments about him.He believes ownership of cannabis genetics is complex and often misunderstood.Gaby does not feel he owes Jason an apology for losing his plant.The conversation reveals the emotional weight of cannabis legacy.Gaby emphasizes the importance of documenting personal cannabis stories. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context05:01 The Beef with VA Skunk15:56 The Breeding Project and Fallout22:36 Reconciliation and Future Collaborations31:43 The Loss of Genetics and Collaboration Challenges34:05 Struggles with Chem Dog Ownership39:47 Negotiating Terms and Personal Conflicts46:15 Public Disputes and Social Media Fallout54:59 The Nature of Ownership and Legacy in Cannabis

In this episode of The Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe speaks with Genevieve, also known as Miss Nudie Grows, about her journey from a social worker to a prominent figure in the cannabis industry. They discuss the challenges and rewards of transitioning from home growing to corporate cannabis, the importance of authenticity, and the need for compassionate leadership in cultivation. Genevieve shares her experiences with community engagement, her early connections with plants, and the healing power of cannabis. The conversation also touches on growing techniques, the significance of organic practices, and the lessons learned from failures in cultivation. In this conversation, Genevieve shares her journey in cannabis cultivation, discussing her experiences with phenohunting, successes, and failures in the industry. She emphasizes the importance of good genetics, effective irrigation practices, and the need for positive leadership in cultivation facilities. Genevieve also reflects on her setbacks and the lessons learned, offering valuable advice for new growers entering the cannabis space.Chapters00:00 From Hobbyist to Corporate Cannabis05:49 Navigating Burnout and Industry Challenges08:35 The Quest for Authenticity in Cannabis11:45 Shifting Dynamics in Corporate Cannabis14:49 The Importance of Leadership and Empathy17:45 Craft vs. Corporate: The Cannabis Dilemma20:48 Back to Roots: Home Growing and Passion Projects23:35 Community Engagement and Indigenous Initiatives26:31 The Journey into Cannabis: Personal Story29:42 Navigating Medical Cannabis and Legalization32:41 Education and Infusion: Sharing Knowledge35:41 The Art of Edibles: Trial and Error38:41 Growing Techniques and Personal Growth40:58 The Evolution of Cannabis Education Podcasts43:41 The Heart of Cannabis: Home Growing vs. Commercial46:44 Organic vs. Salt-Based Growing Techniques53:36 Phenohunting: The Art of Selecting Cannabis Genetics59:37 Best Practices in Phenohunting and Cultivation01:15:07 The Challenges of Automation in Agriculture01:20:08 Learning from Setbacks in Crop Management01:30:54 The Need for Positive Leadership in Cultivation01:32:51 Navigating Regulations and Industry Pitfalls01:35:28 Advice for New Growers: Starting with Quality Genetics01:38:29 Favorite Strains and Breeders in Cannabis Cultivation

In this conversation, Nick Wolfe and Liam Spenser delve into the intricacies of cannabis cultivation, discussing market dynamics, innovative solutions, and the challenges faced in commercial cultivation. They explore the importance of operational efficiency, leadership, and team dynamics, as well as the role of technology in enhancing cultivation practices. The discussion also touches on the balance between quality and quantity in cannabis production and the future trends in controlled environment agriculture. In this conversation, Liam Spenser and Nick Wolfe explore the cultural differences between cannabis cultivation and controlled environment agriculture (CEA), discussing the impact of legacy practices, innovation, and the challenges of commercial viability. They delve into the importance of consumer education, the role of social media in marketing, and the future of cannabis breeding. The discussion also highlights the significance of trust in consulting relationships and offers valuable advice for new growers entering the industry.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cultivation Expertise01:23 Innovative Solutions in Cultivation06:06 Liam's Journey into Cultivation12:11 Experiences at Cureleaf20:04 Leadership and Team Dynamics24:34 Navigating Market Challenges30:08 Quality vs. Quantity in Cannabis Production35:05 Navigating the Cannabis Market: Retail vs. Wholesale Dynamics42:48 Cultivation Techniques: Learning from Experience01:00:27 Transitioning Roles: From Cultivation to Consulting01:07:10 Cross-Pollination of Cannabis and Controlled Environment Agriculture01:11:40 AI and Machine Learning in Cannabis Production01:13:56 Cultural Differences in Cannabis and CEA01:15:17 Quality vs. Quantity in Cannabis Production01:18:21 Legacy Growers and Adaptation to Change01:21:37 Consumer Education and Quality Perception01:25:29 Market Viability and Cultivar Selection01:30:25 The Role of Breeding in Craft Cannabis01:35:55 Consulting in the Cannabis Industry01:48:33 Building Trust in Consultant-Client Relationships01:52:54 The Balance of Data and Observation01:57:40 Learning from Setbacks and Successes02:07:58 Advice for New Growers in the Cannabis Industry