Skunk Works Nature

Leveraging 30+ years of relevant expertise, a global network, and AI to accelerate innovation with natural products. We assist both large and emerging companies with product development, strategy, and critical initiatives through a defined, “stealth” process designed to accelerate the monetization of untapped opportunities.There is a long history of society benefiting from—and creating value through—the successful commercialization of natural compounds such as sucrose, caffeine, saffron, and nicotine.

Sunday, 12 April 2026 12:38

E172 - 2 - EV21 - Why Big Brands Are Quietly Exploring Cannabis and Psychedelics - Skunk Works Nature AI with David Traylor

What will it take for cannabis and natural compounds to truly enter the mainstream—from toothpaste to energy drinks? In Part 2 of Trevor and Kirk’s conversation with biotech financier and cannabis strategist David Traylor, they discuss how major corporations might explore integrating cannabinoids like CBN and CBD and other natural products into everyday consumer products. David explains how his Skunk Works Nature AI advisory group connects global companies with world-class experts in pharmacology, biotechnology, and regulatory strategy to develop cannabinoid and other natural product based innovations. From potential sleep-supporting CBN toothpaste, to the role of pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine, this episode explores how science, investment, and product development intersect in the cannabis, psychedelic and natural product sectors. Trevor and Kirk also unpack the broader forces shaping the cannabis industry—stigma, regulatory barriers, banking challenges, and the tension between single-molecule pharmaceutical approaches vs. whole-plant medicine. Could big brands like PepsiCo or Red Bull be the catalyst that finally normalizes cannabinoid ingredients in consumer products? And what role does fear, policy, and economics play in slowing cannabis acceptance? Listen now to learn how cannabis science, biotech innovation, and big-industry investment could reshape the future of medicine, consumer products, and natural compounds.

Published in Episodes, David W. Traylor, Golden Eagle Partners, Skunk Works Nature

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E172-1 Why Big Brands Are Quietly Exploring Cannabis and Psychedelics - Skunk Works Nature AI with David Traylor

Can big brands explore cannabis, & psychedelics without saying it out loud? What happens when cannabis and natural compounds expertise, a global network, and AI-driven product strategy collide? David Traylor of Golden Eagle Partners introduces Skunk Works Nature AI. This new venture helps major consumer brands quietly explore cannabinoids and other natural compounds. Does a large beverage company want a CBG infused drink to help University Students get over their exam anxiety? Does a Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Brand want a toothpaste with CBN to help people sleep? Does a cosmetics company want a micro-dosed psychedelic lipstick for when an artist or CEO needs some creativity on demand? Large companies may be canna-curious but stigma still slows innovation. The confidential advice and expertise of Skunk Works Nature AI should bring serious players into the space. The future belongs to evidence-based product development built around cannabinoids, alkaloids, terpenes, and other natural compounds. David also discusses the capital crunch in cannabis, why so many firms have exited the sector, and a fascinating discussion about cannabis language and policy, including David’s clearer framework of THC-plus and THC-minus. Listen now to learn how investors, scientists, and global brands are preparing for the next phase of cannabis, psychedelics, and functional natural products.

Published in Episodes, David W. Traylor, Golden Eagle Partners, Skunk Works Nature

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