Is cannabis medicine, wellness, recreation… or all three?

In Episode 129 of The Elevated News Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Amanda Reiman, PhD, MSW, cannabis researcher, policy expert, former Drug Policy Alliance leader, and founder of Personal Plants, for one of the most balanced and honest conversations we have ever had about cannabis.

We break down:

• The real risks of cannabis use

• What a THC overdose actually is

• Medical vs wellness vs recreational use

• Minimum effective dose and why most people over consume

• Cannabis and mental health

• Why U.S. research is so limited

• Capitalism, corporatization, and the future of legalization

• How stories change laws

• Why legalization is not perfect but still better than prohibition

Dr. Reiman brings a rare middle ground perspective. Cannabis has powerful benefits, but it also has risks. The key is mindful use.

If you care about cannabis policy, health, harm reduction, or the future of legalization, this is a must watch episode.

Timestamps:

00:00 Tasty Intro

00:58 Introducing Dr. Amanda Reiman

02:42 Dr. Reiman’s backstory and cannabis activism

10:43 Harms and risks in cannabis use

16:43 When cannabis may lead to harm

22:58 Tips for safer cannabis use

30:09 Condition treatment vs symptom relief

35:26 The state of cannabis research

44:20 What she is optimistic about in the next 5 years

55:21 Law enforcement, prohibition, and money

59:21 Critical thinking shoutout

01:01:19 www.MyPersonalPlants.com

01:03:02 Outro

If you have ever wondered:

How much weed is too much?

Can you actually overdose on THC?

Is cannabis treating conditions or just symptoms?

What happens next for legalization?

This episode answers it.

Drop a comment and tell us:

Do you think cannabis is mostly medical, wellness, or recreational?

What does mindful use mean to you?

Subscribe for weekly Midwest cannabis news, culture, and policy breakdowns.

Watch, like, share, and most importantly, think critically.

Follow Dr. Amanda Reiman:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-reiman-phd-msw

https://www.MyPersonalPlants.com

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store

 - grab a tee before they’re gone!

🐦 Two Dope Dudes on X → https://x.com/twodopedudes

#Cannabis #Legalization #MedicalCannabis #THC #DrugPolicy #HarmReduction #TwoDopeDudes

www.supportdopepeople.com

Winter blues, cannabis truths, and a BIG shift happening in the industry 👀🌿 This episode is a real one — from mental health and seasonal burnout to major moves in the cannabis market that could change the game for growers and consumers alike.

Aaron and Dave kick things off talking about winter, community, and why getting outside (or even just tending plants under grow lights) can be a serious mental health tool. Then it’s straight into Midwest cannabis news, industry shake-ups, and a deep dive into why THC drinks are suddenly everywhere. 

In this episode, we get into:

❄️ Seasonal depression & cannabis — the connection between sunlight, vitamin D, movement, and how growing or being around plants can boost mental wellness

🥏 Community as medicine — disc golf, shared hobbies, and why social connection matters just as much as the plant

🌱 Illinois cannabis updates — new omnibus bills, medical patient access, and what’s not being fixed yet

💰 Falling sales & market pressure — what shrinking numbers could mean for the future of the Illinois cannabis industry

🚨 California’s illicit market crackdown — record seizures and what happens when legal systems squeeze small operators

🏢 Corporate consolidation alert — major gardening and cannabis companies making huge acquisition moves that could impact growers nationwide

🥤 THC drinks takeover — why cannabis beverages are exploding during “Dry January,” how they differ from edibles, and why they might be better for beginners

🧠 Dave’s Conditional Cannabis Corner — the science behind cannabis drinks vs edibles, bioavailability, onset time, and microdosing

This episode blends cannabis policy, personal health, industry insight, and real-life experience — exactly how the plant fits into everyday life beyond the headlines. 

Support the show and save with our partners below.

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store - grab a tee before they’re gone!

🐦 Two Dope Dudes on X → https://x.com/twodopedudes

Subscribe to The Elevated News Podcast on youtube, join the live chat!

Leave a review, share the episode, and tell us what topic you want us to cover next.

Sources discussed in the show:

https://illinoisnewsjoint.com/illinois-releases-cannabis-sales-totals-for-2025/

https://illinoisnewsjoint.com/illinois-house-introduces-third-cannabis-omnibus-bill/

https://mjbizdaily.com/news/california-reports-record-illicit-cannabis-seizures-as-cultivation-tax-cut/614209/

https://mjbizdaily.com/news/scotts-miracle-gro-to-sell-off-cannabis-subsidiary-to-marijuana-mso-vireo-growth/614203/

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/25/business/cannabis-thc-alcoholic-beverages.html

www.supportdopepeople.com

Cannabis sales are breaking records across the country, but the real story is what is happening underneath the surface.

In this episode of The Elevated News Podcast, Two Dope Dudes break down fresh cannabis sales data from Arkansas, Minnesota, Michigan, and Montana, revealing what strong numbers, soft months, and billion dollar milestones actually mean for the future of legal cannabis.

We also dive into new research showing that sterilization and remediation do not fully remove toxic fungi from cannabis, raising serious questions about consumer safety and large scale production practices. Plus, we unpack the ATF’s move to loosen federal gun restrictions for cannabis users and what that shift could mean for Second Amendment rights.

The episode wraps with Dave’s Conditional Cannabis Corner, where we dig into cannabis math, methods of consumption, absorption rates, and why cannabinoid ratios matter far more than chasing THC percentages.

If you care about cannabis policy, market trends, consumer safety, or using cannabis more intentionally, this episode delivers real context without the hype.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• Arkansas medical cannabis sales hitting a record $291 million in 2025

• Minnesota adult use cannabis sales since launch and ongoing market bottlenecks

• Michigan cannabis sales trends and why December slowed down

• Montana surpassing $1 billion in adult use cannabis sales

• Why remediation does not fully remove toxic fungi from cannabis

• ATF changes to gun restrictions for cannabis users

• Missouri growers fined for breaking the “immaculate conception” rule

• Cannabis dosing, absorption, and smarter consumption strategies

Sources discussed in this episode:

https://mjbizdaily.com/news/arkansas-medical-cannabis-sales-hit-record-291-million-in-2025/614135/

https://mjbizdaily.com/news/minnesota-adult-use-cannabis-sales-hit-31-million-since-september-launch/614124/

https://www.newcannabisventures.com/michigan-cannabis-sales-were-soft-in-december/

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/montana-retailers-have-sold-more-than-1-billion-worth-of-recreational-marijuana-since-legalization-took-effect/

https://www.technologynetworks.com/analysis/news/sterilization-does-not-fully-remove-toxic-fungi-from-cannabis-408810

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/atf-moves-to-loosen-gun-ban-for-people-whove-used-marijuana-or-other-illegal-drugs/

https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/23/missouri-cannabis-growers-fined-for-breaking-the-immaculate-conception-rule/

Subscribe to The Elevated News Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.

Leave a review, share the episode, and tell us what topic you want us to cover next.

Support the show and save with our partners below.

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store - grab a tee before they’re gone!

🐦 Two Dope Dudes on X → https://x.com/twodopedudes

www.supportdopepeople.com

New cannabis reform bills are already being introduced in Illinois, Virginia is debating a $20 million adult-use conversion fee, and researchers claim they’ve created a standard way to measure cannabis use. We break down what these developments actually mean and where the logic starts to fall apart.

In Episode 126 of The Elevated News Podcast with Two Dope Dudes, Aaron and Dave dig into early Illinois cannabis legislation, including proposed changes to the Cannabis Equity Commission and medical cannabis program. They also examine Virginia’s controversial cannabis license conversion fees and why some operators see them as a bargain while others call them monopolization.

The episode also covers a new study from the UK proposing standardized THC units, sparking a deep conversation about cannabis math, dosing, milligrams versus percentages, and why bad measurements lead to bad policy. Dave’s Conditional Cannabis Corner delivers a clear breakdown of how cannabis numbers actually work and why understanding them is critical for patients and consumers.

We also touch on federal news as the Senate advances a spending bill that continues protecting state medical marijuana programs while leaving cannabis rescheduling off the table.

If you care about cannabis policy, medical access, legalization realities, and understanding how to dose responsibly without the confusion, this episode is for you.

Subscribe, share the episode, and stay elevated.

————————

SUPPORT THE SHOW

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store - grab a tee before they’re gone!

🐦 Two Dope Dudes on X → https://x.com/twodopedudes

www.supportdopepeople.com

The federal government is easing alcohol consumption guidance while cannabis remains federally illegal and medical marijuana patients continue losing access. In Episode 125 of The Elevated News Podcast, Two Dope Dudes break down the growing hypocrisy in federal drug policy and what it means for patients, public health, and the future of legalization.

This episode covers the Trump administration backing away from alcohol limits while marijuana stays criminalized, even as more Americans turn to cannabis for health and wellness. We also dive into a real world medical cannabis crisis in Illinois, where a family risks losing access to seizure preventing cannabis patches that transformed their daughter’s life.

Aaron and Dave discuss interstate commerce barriers, proprietary cannabis products, and how current laws continue to fail medical patients. The conversation highlights Ashley’s Law, supply shortages, and why access to consistent medication matters.

Dave’s Conditional Cannabis Corner takes a deep dive into epilepsy and cannabis science, including CBD, THC, CBG, seizure regulation, and how the endocannabinoid system helps manage neurological conditions. If you or someone you love deals with seizures or chronic conditions, this episode delivers practical insight and education.

Topics discussed:

Federal alcohol policy changes

Cannabis remaining federally illegal

Medical marijuana access failures

Illinois patient supply shortages

Ashley’s Law and seizure patch access

Cannabis and epilepsy science

CBD dosing and cannabinoid education

Listen, subscribe, and share The Elevated News Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Your support helps amplify patient voices and real cannabis education.

──────────────

Support the show and our partners

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store - grab a tee before they’re gone!

🐦 Two Dope Dudes on X → https://x.com/twodopedudes

www.supportdopepeople.com

Michigan just imposed a new 24 percent wholesale cannabis tax and the industry is already reacting. We break down what this tax actually means, who really pays it, and why the panic outside Michigan does not match the reality on the ground.

Illinois regulators are celebrating a so called “transformative year” in their FY2025 cannabis report. We dig into the IDFPR and IDPH numbers to see what actually changed, what stayed the same, and where the data does not support the narrative being pushed.

Dave’s Conditional Cannabis Corner returns with an honest and necessary conversation about suppositories, medical cannabis, and why method of ingestion matters far more than most people want to admit.

This episode covers Midwest cannabis news, medical cannabis data, state level power plays, and real world market impacts you will not hear anywhere else.

If you care about cannabis legalization, medical access, taxes, and where this industry is heading in 2026, this episode is for you.

Subscribe for weekly cannabis news and long-form conversations.

Share this episode with someone who still thinks cannabis policy is simple.

Stay elevated.

––––––––––––––––––

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:58 Welcome back and post-break recap

00:03:36 A small Amish break

00:09:43 BuildASoil affiliate plugs

00:11:27 YouTube comments and community shoutouts

00:21:20 Michigan cannabis businesses react to the 24 percent wholesale tax

00:33:23 Illinois IDFPR highlights its FY2025 cannabis report

00:40:06 Breaking down the Illinois Department of Public Health cannabis numbers

00:54:20 Dave’s Conditional Cannabis Corner on suppositories

01:01:22 Square peg, round hole

01:03:27 Outro

––––––––––––––––––

LISTEN AND CONNECT

Listen to The Elevated News Podcast with Two Dope Dudes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.

Watch the full video version and subscribe on YouTube for weekly cannabis news and live discussions.

Follow us on X for updates and clips:

https://x.com/twodopedudes

––––––––––––––––––

SUPPORT THE SHOW AND OUR PARTNERS

🌱 BuildASoil

https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5 percent off your order

🌿 The Green Gro

https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5 percent off

👕 Support Dope People Merch

https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store

🐦 Two Dope Dudes on X

https://x.com/twodopedudes

––––––––––––––––––

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

What cannabis story do you think is being ignored right now?

Let us know and help guide what we cover next.

www.supportdopepeople.com

The cannabis industry is under pressure heading into 2026 🌱

In episode 123 of The Elevated News Podcast, Two Dope Dudes break down the mounting regulatory, economic, and political pressure reshaping cannabis and hemp across the United States.

This episode focuses on the growing strain between access and control. States are tightening hemp rules, reworking cannabis frameworks, and in some cases openly questioning adult use markets. What started as legalization is evolving into layered regulation, taxation, and enforcement that is squeezing operators, consumers, and patients alike.

We cover state level developments including Wisconsin’s hemp safety initiative, Michigan’s hemp licensing overhaul, Hawaii’s hemp expansion efforts, and active repeal conversations in Massachusetts and Arizona. We also examine Virginia’s slow path toward legal sales, changes in Ohio, and what Rhode Island and Delaware signal for 2026.

Beyond the headlines, this conversation digs into the real pressure points inside the industry. THC based taxation. Product recalls and recycling systems. Medical versus adult use policy. Access versus restriction. And why standardization often benefits regulators more than consumers.

We also discuss how rescheduling, hemp reclassification, and federal inaction are leaving states to make aggressive moves that may redefine cannabis markets before 2026 even begins.

This episode is for anyone trying to understand where cannabis policy is actually heading and who feels the pressure building from every direction.

🔗 Support the Movement

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store — grab a tee before they’re gone!

💥 Stay Connected

Follow Two Dope Dudes on X for breaking cannabis news and live reactions.

https://twitter.com/TwoDopeDudes

Support independent cannabis media and Support dope people

🎧 Listen to The Elevated News Podcast on all major audio platforms

📺 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for weekly cannabis news and analysis

👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TwoDopeDudes

Join the conversation in the comments.

Where is the industry being squeezed the hardest right now?

What pressure are you feeling as a consumer, patient, or operator?

Timestamps ⏱️

00:00 Industry pressure heading into 2026

05:10 Hemp regulation tightening across states

12:30 State level policy shifts explained

22:00 Adult use repeal conversations

31:45 Taxes, recalls, and market strain

42:10 Medical vs adult use tension

55:30 Federal rescheduling and hemp uncertainty

1:07:00 What pressure means for 2026

www.supportdopepeople.com

Cannabis rescheduling is finally moving forward, but what does it actually mean for patients, homegrowers, and the industry?

In this episode of The Elevated News Podcast, Two Dope Dudes break down the federal executive order to reschedule marijuana, what Schedule 3 really changes, and why Illinois regulators are quietly expanding enforcement powers at the same time. From dispensary distance rules to warrantless seizures, this episode is packed with facts, context, and real talk you are not hearing anywhere else.

We also cover reactions from major Illinois cannabis executives, explain the legal consequences of rescheduling, and dig into why this could take years instead of months. Plus, Dave’s Conditional Cannabis Corner helps you prepare for New Year’s resolutions using cannabinoids the smart way.

If you care about cannabis policy, homegrow rights, medical access, or the future of legalization, this is a must watch.

Watch, comment, and share so this information reaches more people. 🔥🌱

Subscribe for weekly Midwest cannabis news, policy breakdowns, and industry insight.

🔗 Support the Movement

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store — grab a tee before they’re gone!

💥 Stay Connected

Follow Two Dope Dudes on X for breaking cannabis news and live reactions.

https://twitter.com/TwoDopeDudes

Support independent cannabis media and Support dope people

00:00:00 - Intro

00:00:58 - Merry Christmas!

00:03:28 - Affiliate codes and plugs

00:04:42 - Youtube comments

00:12:33 - IDFPR proposes amendment for dispensary location restrictions

00:20:57 - IDOR can conduct arrests and seizure without a warrant???????

00:24:07 - Illinois Executives react to Rescheduling EO

00:33:24 - What to know about the EO to reschedule Marijuana

00:42:37 - When is Marijuana officially rescheduled?

00:47:16 - "Legal Consequences or Rescheduling Marijuana" Legal sidebar

01:01:54 - Daves Conditional Cannabis Corner- Keeping your New Years Resolution

01:06:03 - Closing thoughts and MERRY CHRISTMAS

01:08:10 - Outro

www.supportdopepeople.com

The cannabis hype cycle is back and this time it is rescheduling. In Episode 121 of The Elevated News Podcast, Two Dope Dudes break down what cannabis rescheduling actually means, why it is not the silver bullet many think it is, and what really matters for patients, operators, and consumers.

We cover major Illinois cannabis updates, a key U.S. Supreme Court decision rejecting a marijuana industry challenge, and major medical marijuana expansion news from Alabama and the South. Plus, Dave dives deep into cannabis as a neuroprotectant and why cannabinoids matter for brain health, TBIs, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and more.

If you care about cannabis policy, medical marijuana science, and real talk without hype, this episode is for you.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major streaming platforms.

––––––––––––––––––

ARTICLES AND SOURCES DISCUSSED

IDFPR solicits feedback for Administrative Cannabis Rules

https://illinoisnewsjoint.com/idfpr-solicits-feedback-for-administrative-cannabis-rules/

Division of Cannabis Regulation updates video permit form

https://illinoisnewsjoint.com/division-of-cannabis-regulation-updates-video-permit-form/

Alabama officials approve medical marijuana dispensary licenses

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/alabama-officials-approve-medical-marijuana-dispensary-licenses-readying-program-for-sales-to-start-in-2026/

U.S. Supreme Court rejects marijuana companies’ challenge

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/u-s-supreme-court-rejects-marijuana-companies-case-challenging-federal-prohibition/

––––––––––––––––––

🔗 Support the Movement

🌱 BuildASoil → https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5% off your order!

🌿 The Green Gro → https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5% off!

👕 https://www.SupportDopePeople.com/store — grab a tee before they’re gone!

🎧 Listen on Audio

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon | All Platforms

💥 Stay Connected

Follow Two Dope Dudes on X for breaking cannabis news and live reactions.

 https://twitter.com/TwoDopeDudes

Support independent cannabis media and Support dope people

––––––––––––––––––

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

What do you think about cannabis rescheduling?

Do you believe Schedule 3 will actually help patients and small operators?

Should Illinois cannabis rules change and how?

Drop your thoughts in the comments, like the video, and share this episode with someone who needs real cannabis news not hype 🌱🔥

00:00:00 - Intro

00:00:58 - We're the Two Dope Dudes

00:04:59 - Plugs and affiliate codes

00:07:31 - Responding to your youtube comments

00:13:29 - IDFPR solicits feedback for Administrative Cannabis Rules - Illinois News Joint

00:23:18 - Division of Cannabis Regulation updates Video Permit Form - Illinois News Joint

00:32:13 - Alabama Officials Approve Medical Marijuana Dispensary Licenses, Readying Program For Sales To Start In 2026

00:45:12 - U.S. Supreme Court Rejects Marijuana Companies’ Case Challenging Federal Prohibition

00:50:02 - Why Rescheduling isn't what you think

00:57:13 - Dave's Conditional Cannabis Corner - Using cannabis as a neuroprotectant

01:10:05 - Don't feel guilty to feel good.

01:15:02 - Outro

www.supportdopepeople.com

Welcome back to The Elevated News Podcast with Two Dope Dudes, your source for Midwest cannabis news, culture, and community. In this episode we cover a packed week of headlines and take a deep dive into the growing mental health crisis in America.

Chicago considers an early ban on hemp products months before the federal deadline. PharmaCann and 4Front default on rent again and face possible eviction. The Illinois Department of Public Health proposes new medical cannabis conditions. Texas expands its Compassionate Use Program. We also talk Thanksgiving, disc golf, freeze dryers, solar panels, and read your YouTube comments.

Dave brings a powerful installment of Conditional Cannabis Corner, breaking down how overstimulation, social media, and modern pressures are shaping mental health and why cannabis may play a stabilizing role.

If you enjoy the show, share it with a friend and leave a rating. It helps us reach more listeners.

Episode Links

Chicago grocery store parking lot drug sales investigation

https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/chicago-grocery-store-parking-lot-drug-sales

PharmaCann and 4Front default on rent

https://illinoisnewsjoint.com/iip-declares-pharmacann-and-4front-in-default-for-nonpayment-of-rent

IDPH medical cannabis amendments

https://illinoisnewsjoint.com/idph-proposes-amendments-for-medical-cannabis-patients

Proposed Chicago hemp ordinance

https://chicago.suntimes.com/city-hall/2025/12/02/hemp-ban-chicago-thc-beverages-illinois

Texas DPS Compassionate Use Program expansion

https://www.dps.texas.gov/news/dps-update-phase-i-texas-compassionate-use-program-expansion-selection-process

Affiliate Links

BuildASoil

https://buildasoil.com/?ref=supportdopepeople

Use code SupportDopePeople for 5 percent off.

The Green Gro

https://thegreengro.com?sca_ref=4908674.J9aND9hTra

Use code TwoDopeDudes for 5 percent off.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro

00:58 Welcome back

04:39 Thanksgiving

07:39 How to find us and affiliate codes

13:49 YouTube comments

18:04 Chicago grocery store drug bust

24:48 PharmaCann and 4Front default

28:43 New IDPH medical cannabis amendments

35:21 Chicago hemp ordinance

39:45 Texas Compassionate Use expansion

45:27 Conditional Cannabis Corner

1:06:51 Final thoughts

1:09:40 Outro

Stay Connected

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TwoDopeDudes

Support Dope People: https://supportdopepeople.com

Peace Love and Cope Live Show: Thursdays at 8 PM Central on YouTube

Thank you for being part of this community. Smoke weed every day and stay safe, friends.

www.supportdopepeople.com