Psychedelic Science for the People

Dr. Jonny Lisano, an exercise physiologist who specializes in the field of cannabis and exercise science, reveals patterns he has observed in his research between cannabis use and exercise performance. We discuss how cannabis use affects (and doesn’t affect) anaerobic fitness, pulmonary health, and the presence of C-Reactive proteins in your blood. We also discuss whether cannabis should be considered legitimate medicine for NFL players and why using cannabis before exercise might help you feel a “Runner’s High” a little sooner.

Nick Jikomes, PhD, neuroscientist and the Director of Science & Innovation at Leafly, shares what he has learned analyzing crowd-sourced data from patients/consumers on cannabis strains and products. Dr. Jikomes reveals that there are only a handful of chemical subtypes among high-THC strains and he shares the three primary chemical profiles you might find at a dispensary. We also discuss the association between certain terpenes and cannabinoids, like Terpinolene & CBG.

Psychiatrist Dr. Julie Holland, MD, reveals how psychedelic medicines, like cannabis, MDMA, and psilocybin can help us feel more connected to ourselves, our community, and the natural world. We discuss what happens to our brains when we take psychedelics, why we are hardwired for connection, and the difference between the recreational and medical models of using these substances. 

Dr. Peter Grinspoon, MD shares his recovery story after facing an addiction to prescription painkillers. We discuss some of the issues with current addiction therapy and rehabilitation programs and how we can improve the experience of recovery and reduce dependency on opiates by incorporating cannabis into addiction therapy. 

Can cannabis improve your sex life? OB/GYN Dr. Genester Wilson-King reveals research indicating cannabis's potential as a natural aphrodisiac. We also talk about whether cannabis affects fertility, whether cannabis is safe to use during pregnancy, and using cannabis as medicine to treat endometriosis.

Dr. Hutchinson reveals his emerging research that cannabidiol (CBD) can mitigate side effects of alcohol use disorder and opiate addition. We discuss how CBD could potentially reduce dependency on these substances, improve symptoms of these disorders, and play a larger role in addiction therapy. He also explains whether cannabis causes structural changes in the brain and shares his latest research about the effects of cannabis use among the elderly. 

Dr.  Anna Schwabe, a cannabis geneticist, reveals why our sense of smell is a very reliable indicator when we’re trying to identify cannabis strains. We discuss cannabis epigenetics, i.e. why genetically identical cannabis plants may produce different levels of THC or CBD, even when they are grown in the same environment. And she gives some expert tips on shopping for cannabis, so you can have more insight into the phenotypes and true THC levels of the strains you’re buying.

Does cannabis have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells? In this episode, Professor Hinanit Koltai, a biologist and the Director of Cannabis Research at the Volcani Center in Israel, reveals what cannabis molecules has been most effective at killing and preventing the spread of colon cancer cell lines. We also discuss what cannabinoid or cannabis molecule formulations are showing promise in treating other types of cancer like lymphoma, as well as genetic disorders like Crohn’s disease.

How are cannabis workers’ rights connected to the quality of medicine that patients consume?  Are dispensaries as socially responsible as their marketing indicates?

Anthropologist Dr. Marty Otañez shares his research on cannabis workers’ rights and social responsibility and accountability among dispensaries and cultivation facilities. We talk about how we can build a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable industry and avoid the pitfalls of Big Tobacco.

Dr. Reggie Gaudino, a Geneticist and IP expert, discusses the behind-the-scenes research at Steep Hill testing lab, where he was formerly the Chief Science Officer. “Cannabis will not kill you, but what grows on cannabis will,” he reveals, discussing a study on pathogens found in dispensary cannabis. We also discuss the development of the first cannabis DNA-based sex test, how to shop responsibly for cannabis, what makes a cannabis strain eligible for a legitimate patent, and why it’s critical for cannabis breeders to invest in IP.