Let's be Blunt with Montel

In this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving into the latest cannabis and hemp news that’s making waves across the industry. From the controversial new federal hemp regulations that could reshape the market to groundbreaking health studies showing the cognitive benefits of cannabis use in older adults, we’ve got it all covered.

We’ll also explore the Trump administration’s potential move to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III drug, the Supreme Court case that could set a precedent for CBD product labeling, and the ongoing battle over hemp-THC regulations in states like Ohio, Missouri, and Minnesota. Plus, we’ll break down the latest business updates, including major moves from companies like Trulieve, Curaleaf, and Canopy Growth.

On a personal note, Montel shares how the latest health research hits close to home, as it highlights the long-term cognitive benefits of cannabis use—something he’s experienced firsthand over the past 25 years.

Finally, we want to hear from YOU! Share your thoughts on the new hemp regulations, state-level legalization efforts, or your own cannabis journey. Your feedback could be featured in a future episode.

Tune in for an informative, engaging, and empowering discussion that keeps you in the know about all things cannabis.

Key Topics Covered:

• Federal hemp regulations and their potential impact
• Health studies on cannabis and cognitive performance in older adults
• State-level legalization updates in Virginia, Ohio, and Minnesota
• Business highlights from Trulieve, Curaleaf, and more
• The Supreme Court case on CBD product labeling

Stay informed, stay empowered, and stay blunt!

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On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving deep into the world of cannabis disinformation with strategic communications and media analyst, Madicyn Marinaro. Madicyn has dedicated her career to uncovering the patterns, tactics, and financial incentives behind fear-based narratives that echo the propaganda of Reefer Madness. From debunking myths about cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and psychosis to exposing how platform algorithms amplify disinformation, Madicyn sheds light on the forces shaping public perception and the cannabis industry itself.

Join Montel and Madicyn as they explore the intersection of media ethics, policy, and the fight for evidence-based communication in a space long constrained by stigma and misinformation. Whether you’re a cannabis advocate, industry professional, or simply curious about the truth behind the headlines, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Let’s cut through the noise and get blunt about cannabis disinformation. 🌿

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On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Tom Raikes, the visionary founder of Seedsman, one of the most influential cannabis seed distributors in the world. 

Tom’s journey into the cannabis industry began with a degree in Agricultural Business Management and a passion for hemp as a health food ingredient. From humble beginnings to working alongside legendary breeders like David Watson, aka Sam the Skunkman, and pioneering innovations like autoflowering genetics, 

Tom has been at the forefront of cannabis cultivation and genetic preservation. We’ll dive into the origins of Seedsman, the groundbreaking collaborations with breeders and seedbanks, and the company’s global reach across the US, EU, UK, and South Africa. Tom also shares insights into the importance of genetic diversity, the rise of CBD genetics, and the future of cannabis cultivation. 

Whether you’re a seasoned grower, a cannabis enthusiast, or just curious about the industry, this episode is packed with inspiration and expertise. 

Tune in to hear Tom’s incredible story and the legacy he’s building with Seedsman. Don’t miss it!

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In this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving into the latest cannabis news and developments shaping the industry, health, and culture. Montel covers groundbreaking research on cannabis formulations reducing dementia-related agitation, CBG’s potential to combat metabolic disorders, and new studies showing how cannabis can blunt back pain and improve sleep. 

We also explore the evolving cannabis job market, with emerging states like New York and Ohio leading job growth while mature markets face challenges. Plus, we discuss Target’s bold move into THC-infused beverages, the Supreme Court’s upcoming case on cannabis users and gun ownership, and the ongoing debate over hemp regulations as three in four voters push for legalization with enhanced oversight. 

On the global front, we highlight Spain’s historic step toward regulating medical cannabis in hospitals and Australia’s booming medical cannabis imports. And don’t miss our cultural spotlight on the VFW’s partnership to bring cannabis beverages to veterans as an alcohol alternative. 

From health breakthroughs to political debates and cultural shifts, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. 

Tune in now to stay informed, stay curious, and stay blunt!

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In this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Alex Anderson, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Skyworld, a New York-based cannabis brand deeply rooted in Indigenous tradition. A proud member of the Tuscarora Nation, Alex has built Skyworld as a living expression of ancestral wisdom, cultural resilience, and the enduring connection between people and the cosmos. From its name and colors to its cultivation philosophy, Skyworld is infused with intention, honoring both tradition and innovation. 

Alex shares his journey of blending Indigenous heritage with modern entrepreneurship, his holistic approach to cultivation rooted in care, compassion, and community, and his mission to uplift Indigenous voices in the cannabis space. We also dive into Skyworld’s exciting collaboration with NBA legend Carmelo Anthony’s STAYME7O Cannabis to launch the “Hall of Flame” project, uniting two powerful visions under one sky. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, cultural storytelling, and the future of cannabis as a movement for unity and meaning. 

Don’t miss this episode—it’s one for the books!

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On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Jeffrey Miller, a Peabody Award-winning documentarian turned cannabis industry trailblazer. As the CEO of HoneyProjects, Jeffrey is reshaping New Jersey’s cannabis market with a bold vision that champions small-batch craft cannabis, community connection, and wellness-focused innovation. From his groundbreaking documentary King Corn to leading award-winning ventures like HoneyGrove and HoneyStash, Jeffrey’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

We dive into his personal story of using cannabis to manage clinical depression and anxiety, his transition from filmmaking to cannabis entrepreneurship, and his advocacy for destigmatizing cannabis and psychedelics. Jeffrey shares insights on conscious leadership, the importance of supporting independent brands in a corporate-dominated industry, and the future of cannabis retail. Plus, we explore how his storytelling background and certification in psychedelic therapies fuel his mission to elevate the cannabis experience.

Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about the intersection of culture, wellness, and cannabis, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights. Tune in to hear how Jeffrey is redefining what cannabis can achieve and why HoneyProjects is more than a business—it’s a movement.

Don’t miss this fascinating conversation!

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What happens when the roar of the crowd fades, but the pain lingers? For many professional athletes, the transition from a high-stakes career to everyday life brings unforeseen mental and physical challenges. This week on Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, host Montel Williams sits down with former NFL star and College Football Hall of Famer, Robert Gallery, to have a raw and honest conversation about his journey from the heights of professional sports to the depths of a personal crisis, and the unconventional path that led him to healing.

Robert Gallery isn't just a former No. 2 overall NFL draft pick; he's now the co-founder and CEO of Athletes for Care, an organization dedicated to prioritizing athlete mental health and advocating for innovative treatments. His story is one of resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of plant medicine in overcoming traumatic brain injuries (TBI), dependency, and despair.

Robert opens up about the intense physical toll of his eight-year NFL career, marked by relentless concussions and a reliance on painkillers. But it was after retirement that he faced his toughest opponent: a mental health crisis he couldn’t understand. The isolation, rage, and suicidal ideation became overwhelming until a stark warning set him on a new course: "If you don’t change, you’ll be a statistic."

In this powerful episode, Robert shares the turning point that led him to seek help and his life-changing decision to undergo psychedelic-assisted therapy with ibogaine in Mexico. He describes the immediate transformation he felt and how this profound experience inspired him to help other athletes who are suffering in silence.

• The Unseen Toll of TBI: Robert discusses the long-term effects of repeated head trauma and why so many athletes struggle with neurodegenerative diseases and mental health conditions after their careers end.
• The Healing Power of Psychedelics: Learn about ibogaine, a plant-based psychoactive compound showing incredible promise for treating TBI, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Robert shares his personal experience and the science behind why these therapies are so effective.
• Cannabis as a Wellness Tool: The conversation also pivots to cannabis, exploring its role in recovery, pain management, and mental well-being for athletes. Robert and Montel discuss the ongoing stigma in professional sports and what it will take for leagues like the NFL to embrace it.
• Advocacy and Hope: Discover the incredible work being done by Athletes for Care. Robert explains their CARE framework—Community, Advocacy, Research, and Education—and how it’s creating a supportive network for athletes to find healing and purpose.

This episode is more than just a football story. It’s a vital conversation for anyone who has struggled in silence, whether you're an athlete, a veteran, or simply seeking a better path to mental wellness. Robert’s vulnerability and strength serve as a powerful reminder that healing is possible and that no one is too far gone to get better.

Listen now to explore the cutting-edge science of psychedelic therapy and learn how we can all work to destigmatize the innovative treatments that are changing—and saving—lives.

Tune in to "Let's Be Blunt with Montel" to hear the full story. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with anyone who needs to hear it.

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In this special on-location episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re bringing together legends from the worlds of music, acting, and cannabis innovation.

First, we’re joined by the iconic Ice-T—hip-hop pioneer, actor, and now a trailblazer in the cannabis industry. From his groundbreaking music career to his 20+ years on Law & Order: SVU, Ice-T has always been a voice for resilience and change. Now, he’s making waves with his latest venture: The Medicine Woman dispensary in Jersey City and the launch of his exclusive cannabis strain, BodyCount.

Joining Ice-T are Rick and Laura Campanella, the masterminds behind Brothers Grimm Seeds. Known as Mr. & Mrs. Soul, they’ve built a legacy of creating some of the most sought-after cannabis genetics in the industry. Together, they’ve collaborated with Ice-T to develop BodyCount, a strain with a powerful message and a commitment to giving back.

In this episode, Montel dives deep into Ice-T’s incredible journey—from the streets of South Central to the heights of fame—and explores his transition into the cannabis world. We’ll also hear from Rick and Laura about the inspiration behind BodyCount and their shared mission to advance equity and opportunity in the cannabis space.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, justice, and the power of cannabis to create change. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a celebration of community.

Subscribe now and join us for this unforgettable episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel!

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On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving into the future of cannabis with Shawn Sherman, founder and owner of Golden Apple Cannabis Co. Shawn’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary—starting as a computer science graduate and ethical hacker, he transitioned into the cannabis industry during California’s medical cannabis movement. Today, he’s a trailblazer in cannabis education, policy, and innovation.

Shawn is on a mission to change the way we think about cannabis, moving beyond outdated “Sativa/Indica” labels to a science-driven, effect-based approach. He’s empowering consumers to shop smarter by focusing on cannabinoids and terpenes for consistent, reliable experiences. At Golden Apple Cannabis Co., Shawn is redefining the retail experience with a boutique, educational model that prioritizes trust and consumer confidence.

Join Montel and Shawn as they discuss:

• The importance of terpenes and cannabinoids in shaping cannabis effects
• How Shawn’s tech background influences his innovative approach to cannabis
• The evolution of the cannabis industry and the challenges it faces
• Practical tips for smarter cannabis shopping and starting a cannabis business
• The future of cannabis technology and public perception

This is a conversation you don’t want to miss! Tune in to hear how Shawn is creating a future where cannabis education, quality, and empowerment go hand in hand.

Subscribe, share, and stay blunt!

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This week, Montel sits down with a guest whose story will leave you speechless. Meet Al Morentin, a man who turned desperation into innovation and blindness into vision—literally.

When glaucoma stole Al’s sight, doctors told him to accept a life of darkness. But Al refused to give up. Through sheer determination, he developed his own Rick Simpson Oil formulation, not only restoring his vision but also eliminating decades of migraines and chronic pain. Today, Al is the founder of My Fit Life, a holistic health and wellness company that has helped over 12,000 people transition off pharmaceuticals naturally.

In this episode, Al shares:

• The life-changing moment he regained his sight.
• How desperation led to breakthrough cannabis extraction methods.
• The challenges of building a wellness empire when your life depends on your products.
• Expert insights on Rick Simpson Oil and CBD from someone who lives it every day.

This isn’t just another cannabis success story—it’s a tale of survival, innovation, and the power of the plant to transform lives.

Tune in to hear how Al’s journey from blindness to wellness CEO is inspiring thousands to embrace alternative therapies and vibrant health.

🌿 Don’t miss this powerful conversation on Let’s Be Blunt with Montel!

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