This week on the Lancaster Farming Industrial Hemp Podcast, host Eric Hurlock wrestles with a question at the heart of the industry: What is hemp?

The term has become increasingly diluted and controversial — especially in light of smokable flower and intoxicating cannabinoid markets, i.e. THC-a flower, Delta-8, etc.

Lately, Eric has been saying that if you're growing floral hemp, maybe you're not actually a hemp farmer. But he might be wrong and this week he goes on a journey to find out.

On this show, Eric speaks with three trusted voices on the cannabinoid side of the conversation to help untangle the confusion: Joe Ullman of Atlas Seed, Ben Davies of Wild Fox Provisions and Jeremy Klettke of Davis Hemp Farms.

Together, they explore the cultural history, legal definitions and evolving market forces that have transformed how we use — and misuse — the word hemp.

From fiber and grain to cannabinoids and regulation, this episode digs deep into the meaning, the consequences and the potential for redefining the future of the hemp industry.

Learn More:

• Joe Ullman – Atlas Seed

• Ben Davies – Wild Fox Provisions

• Jeremy Klettke – Davis Hemp Farms

Topics Covered:

• The origin and historical meaning of "hemp"

• How the 2018 Farm Bill broadened the definition

• The rise of THCa flower and "intoxicating hemp"

• The conflict between cannabinoid and fiber/grain sectors

• Regulatory confusion and COA loopholes

• The cultural baggage of the word "hemp"

• The role of education, infrastructure, and language in shaping the industry

Hemp Sponsors:

• IND HEMP — Building real infrastructure for American hemp

• King's AgriSeeds — Call Sarah Mitchell for seasonal seed needs (717-687-6224)

• Forever Green — Distributor of the KP4 hemp cutter

Questions or comments? Email: [email protected]

This episode was written, recorded, edited, and produced by Eric Hurlock and Justin Berger.

© 2025 Lancaster Farming Newspaper, part of the Steinman Communications family.