Rhys Cohen is a self-confessed “drug nerd” who has held countless cannabis-related roles over the past decade as he has become a trusted voice within the industry. With a Masters in Research and Sociology, Rhys has been a cannabis consultant, editor, advisory board member and today is the Policy Officer at Penington Institute.

Penington Institute is an independent drug policy non-profit that is currently developing a comprehensive model for cannabis regulation which prioritises community health and safety. They champion an open, rational, and compassionate approach to building and sharing knowledge to reduce drug-related harm and are pushing for an effective regulatory framework for cannabis defined by public health goals, prioritising targeted prevention, education, and treatment.

In this episode:

Reflections on UIC (1:45)

Why Rhys pursued cannabis (5:00)

The state of Australian medicinal cannabis (9:20)

Protecting the medicinal market (15:30)

People are overwhelming still using illicit cannabis (17:15)

What is the Penington Institute (19:40)

The Annual Overdose Report (21:00)

Cannabis regulation in Victoria - Regulate it! (23:45)

Rhys’ Pieces Quiz (34:45)

Vape Battery Ban (40:00)

Pauls of Wisdom (42:20)

Visit www.penington.org.au

Take the Quiz at www.penington.org.au/regulate-it-cannabis-campaign/

Visit www.giveandtoke.com.au

Follow @giveandtoke on Instagram

Email [email protected]