67. What Entrepreneurs Get Wrong About Drug Policy Reform

What happens when entrepreneurs get ahead of drug policy reform? In this episode, April Pride talks with Steve Rolles, senior policy analyst at Transform Drug Policy Foundation, to unpack the politics, public health trade-offs, and pitfalls that can derail even the best-intentioned psychedelic ventures. Drawing on decades of experience advising governments in Canada, Uruguay, and Europe, Steve shares what works (and what backfires) when legal markets take shape. From avoiding monopolies to de-risking edibles, this episode is essential listening for anyone building in psychedelics—or advocating for safer, smarter regulation worldwide.

🔵 Key Takeaways

-Drug policy reform succeeds when entrepreneurs align with public health—not just profit.

-Edibles that resemble candy can create political backlash and stall global reform.

-Canada’s phased rollout is a model: regulate flower first, introduce riskier products later.

-Monopolies and industry lobbying distort policymaking—reform must center the public good.

-Legalization isn’t a finish line: implementation shapes whether reform truly delivers on its promises.

Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/psychedelics-drug-policy-reform-explained

Hosted by April Pride

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