Skip to main content

Episodes

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.

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. 

What if the fastest way to feel cannabis effects isn’t through your lungs… but through your nose? Trevor and Kirk explore the science behind a unique cannabis accessory: the Nozzr, a nasal inhalation device designed to deliver vaporized cannabis through the nose rather than the mouth. Inventor and Respiratory Therapist Yvette Webb shares how the idea emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic while researching terpene interactions with respiratory viruses. Drawing on respiratory therapy, aerosol physics, and cannabis pharmacology, she explains how nasal inhalation may deliver cannabinoids and terpenes faster, potentially improving onset time, reducing coughing, and enhancing terpene perception through the olfactory system. Trevor and Kirk discuss whether nasal inhalation could offer benefits for medical cannabis patients, including people with chronic pain, migraines, spasticity, or mobility challenges. Is nasal cannabis inhalation the next evolution in cannabis consumption—or just a fascinating experiment in delivery science? Listen now to learn how terpene science, respiratory therapy, and cannabis innovation collide in this unusual but thought-provoking conversation.

What happens when a medical cannabis patient turns her healing journey into a cannabis science business? Trevor and Kirk talk with Yvette Webb, a Respiratory Therapist whose battle with Multiple Sclerosis, chronic pain, and insomnia led her to explore cannabis beyond THC. Her research into terpenes, cannabinoid delivery, and transdermal cannabis topicals ultimately inspired the creation of Cream of the Crop Therapeutics. From terpene science and topical cannabis formulations to the challenges of Canada’s medical cannabis system, this episode explores how patient innovation and plant chemistry intersect in modern cannabis medicine. Listen now to discover how terpenes, cannabinoids, and real-world patient experiences are reshaping cannabis therapeutics.

 What are future pharmacists really being taught about cannabis—and is the stigma finally disappearing? In this episode of Reefer MEDness, Trevor and Kirk sit down with a University of Manitoba pharmacy student Ariana to explore how cannabis is being taught in modern healthcare education. From cannabinoid receptors (CB1/CB2) to drug interactions via CYP3A4, this conversation breaks down how cannabis is shifting from stigma to legitimate therapy. You’ll learn about routes of administration, medical uses like pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea, and why healthcare providers must consider cannabis in patient care. Perhaps most importantly, Ariana provides insight into a cultural shift: cannabis is no longer viewed solely as a “drug of abuse,” but is starting to be seen as a legitimate therapeutic option within healthcare education. Listen now to learn how cannabis education is reshaping pharmacy, patient care, and clinical decision-making.

Join us on this exciting reunion with our friends at High on Homegrown! It has been five long years since our first appearance on High on Homegrown found in our early days of Episode 60. Macky interviews Kirk and Trevor. They dive deep into the fascinating world of medical cannabis, podcasting, and a bunch of entertaining, random topics you will find most fascinating. Can dog poop get you high? Why is medical cannabis so expensive and hard to get in the UK? Why Kirk disagrees with the entire world as to the definition of a cannabis "overdose"? Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the community, this episode brings you a casual conversation from three people who understand cannabis.

Does gamma irradiation destroy THC… or protect patients from dangerous mold?  In Part 2 of our exploration into irradiated cannabis, Trevor and Kirk wrap up their conversation with Dr. Saji George and Mamta Rani from McGill University about gamma radiation, fungal contamination, and the real risks of mycotoxins in medical cannabis. If you’ve ever wondered whether irradiation “ruins” cannabinoids or if mold in cannabis is actually dangerous — this episode tackles both. We explore how gamma irradiation works at the molecular level — breaking down fungal DNA, reducing pathogen burden, and potentially degrading mycotoxins. But what about THC, CBD, terpenes, and flavonoids? Does irradiation damage the very compounds patients rely on? The answer is more nuanced than social media headlines suggest. As the researchers explain, it’s a risk-benefit equation: the possible reduction in cannabinoids versus eliminating dangerous fungal spores — especially critical for immunocompromised patients such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with HIV. We also discuss whether cannabis should be regulated like food, whether inhaled products deserve stricter mold standards, and what Health Canada may need to reconsider. For home growers, medical users, and industry professionals alike, this episode raises the question: Is irradiation enough for microbial safety — and is it being done right? If you care about cannabis safety, medical standards, fungal contamination, or cannabinoid preservation, this is a conversation you need to hear. Listen now to understand the science behind irradiation — and decide for yourself whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

Does irradiated cannabis still contain mold spores? In this deep-dive episode, Trevor and Kirk explore the science behind cannabis irradiation, fungal contamination, and the hidden risks of mycotoxins. Dr. Saji George and Mamta Rani from McGill University break down how gamma irradiation is used to sterilize cannabis—and why even this industry-standard sterilization may not eliminate all harmful fungal spores or toxins. They reveal that while irradiation significantly reduces fungal contamination, advanced testing still detected viable spores and residual mycotoxins in some cannabis legal products. For immunocompromised patients, even minimal exposure to spores or toxins can matter. We explore testing gaps, regulatory limits, workplace risks, and new biocontrol solutions to prevent contamination at the source. Listen now to understand how cannabis irradiation works — and where the cracks in the system may be.

Can a centuries-old cannabis culture survive legalization? In this exclusive episode, Reefer MEDness shares a rare anonymous interview with a SOMACAN quality manager inside Morocco’s emerging legal cannabis industry. Kirk and Mr. Anonymous share a car ride through the Rif Mountains and Mr. Anonymous reveals how local farmers are transitioning from black-market hash production into regulated medical cannabis cooperatives producing hundreds of tons of biomass annually. Discover how Morocco’s ancient Beldia landrace strain—grown for centuries—is now facing threats from modernization, imported genetics, and pharmaceutical regulation. Learn how CBD and limited THC legalization is reshaping cannabis exports, farmer livelihoods, and global supply chains. From secrecy and stigma to pharmaceutical extraction and international markets, this episode reveals the real human and scientific story behind cannabis legalization in Morocco. Listen now to understand how one of the world’s oldest cannabis traditions is adapting to the future of medicine.
Published in Episodes, Somacan
 
Can Morocco’s famous hash industry survive pharmaceutical regulation? In Part 2 of Episode 166, Trevor and Kirk continue their conversation with Jan van Weenen, a European cannabis veteran helping transform Morocco’s ancient hash market into a GMP-compliant pharmaceutical industry. From heavy metals in Rif Mountain soil to pricing battles between farmers, co-ops, and manufacturers, this episode reveals the real-world challenges of global cannabis regulation. Jan shares his strategy to build a pharmaceutical cannabis brand now — and pivot into recreational markets later — while navigating European standards, extract distribution, and international licensing. Listen now to explore the birth of Morocco’s legal cannabis industry and what it means for Europe and beyond.
Page 1 of 19