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A German cannabis physician, a nurse and a pharmacist walk into a bar... I mean a podcast. In this fascinating episode of Reefer MEDness, Trevor (pharmacist) and Kirk (registered nurse) sit down with Dr. Vlad Gavril, a German GP specializing in cannabinoid therapy, to explore how medical cannabis is transforming patient care in Germany. Dr. Vlad explains how Germany’s partial cannabis legalization in April 2024 dramatically changed access to medical cannabis. But with this rapid expansion comes challenges: inconsistent patient education, and stigma around cannabis. The conversation unpacks how Dr. Vlad uses cannabis clinically—from chronic pain and insomnia to depression and ADHD—and why education about cannabinoids, terpenes, and individualized treatment is critical. Dr. Vlad shares how he guides patients toward vaporization rather than smoking, explores terpene-based strain selection, and explains the importance of activating the body’s endocannabinoid system through lifestyle changes alongside cannabis therapy. This episode offers rare insight into the rapidly evolving global landscape of medical cannabis policy, patient care, and cannabinoid science. Listen now to learn how cannabis medicine is being practiced in Germany—and what Canadian clinicians and patients can learn from it.

Can a massive data project finally answer the biggest questions about medical cannabis? In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Johannes Thrul, we explore the National Cannabis Study, an ambitious effort to build a global repository of cannabis research and real-world patient data. From standardized tools like the Cannabis Use Questionnaire to combining datasets from multiple studies, this project aims to uncover how cannabis truly impacts conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. With AI analysis, collaborative research, and a goal of 10,000 participants, the team hopes to transform fragmented cannabis studies into one powerful evidence base. Listen now to learn how this groundbreaking cannabis database could reshape the future of cannabis medicine.

 What truth can big data unlock about medical cannabis? Dr. Johannes Thrul from Johns Hopkins talks about cannabis use disorder, psychiatric risks, THC intoxication, and the groundbreaking Cannabis Health Research Initiative. The ambitious Cannabis Health Research Initiative is a groundbreaking effort to build a national medical cannabis registry and research database. Dr. Thrul shares how the National Cannabis Study will track new medical cannabis users over time, analyze biomarkers and electronic health records, and use AI to identify if medicinal cannabis is helping or not. The goal: generate real-world evidence about the benefits, risks, and clinical applications of cannabinoids—helping researchers design better clinical trials and improve patient care. Listen now to learn how real-world data may reshape the science of cannabis medicine.

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.
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