What if one plant could solve multiple global problems: environmental degradation, economic instability, and public health? Annie Rouse believes hemp can. Kara talks with Annie about the power and potential of hemp as an industrial crop, a wellness resource, and a tool for climate solutions. They get into how policy, stigma, and industry gatekeeping have slowed hemp's progress, and why Annie’s on a mission to change that. Annie is a Fulbright Scholar, economist, and investigative journalist who’s built a portfolio of businesses and advocacy projects under the Think Hempy Thoughts brand. This conversation covers everything from the war on drugs to sustainable fashion to the underestimated power of female entrepreneurs.

Chapters:

00:00 How Annie first discovered hemp

01:25 What we get wrong about hemp and cannabis

03:10 Hemp’s potential to transform global supply chains

05:00 Getting a Fulbright to study hemp in Canada

07:30 Fighting industry stigma and misinformation

10:20 Think Hempy Thoughts and building hemp businesses

12:15 Why sustainable fashion needs hemp

14:40 Eco-feminism and the power of women entrepreneurs

16:15 How Annie juggles her portfolio of projects

18:00 Running a values-driven business

20:10 How to talk about hemp without getting shut down

22:25 The True Cost documentary and fast fashion's dark side

25:45 Supply chains, certifications, and conscious choices

28:30 Why policy change matters for entrepreneurs

30:15 Work-life balance and wellness as a founder

32:00 Building confidence in male-dominated industries

34:30 What powerful means to Annie right now

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

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