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Episode 162 – Hash Wednesday: Reviving Tradition, Challenging the War on Drugs
In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Jesus, a passionate advocate who helped reignite the historic Hash Wednesday tradition at the University of Illinois. You can learn more about Hash Wednesday at ColeMemo.com/History. During the episode, Cole and Jesus explore the event’s roots, the camaraderie it fosters, and the ongoing fight against the War
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Episode 161 – Cannabis Remediation, Regulation, and Beyond
I’m joined by Maddie Scanlon, founder of High Focus Media and the Illinois Cannabis Consumption Association, to unpack the hot topic of cannabis remediation, Illinois’ strict testing standards, and the need for better transparency in labeling. We also explore the role of hemp in cannabis policy and how normalization through consumption advocacy is shaping the
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Potential Changes To Medical Cannabis Patient Portal and Seed-to-Sale in Illinois
Article updated on April 16, 2025, to reflect the Division of Medical Cannabis’ official email announcement about the new portal for medical cannabis patients and caregivers. Click here to view the latest update. During a January 4, 2023, meeting with the Office of the Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer and the Illinois Department of Public Health
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Episode 160 – From Brick Weed to Artisanal Craft: Cannabis Innovation with Dustin Shroyer
In this episode, I sit down with Dustin, the former COO and President of Revolution Cannabis in Illinois, to explore his journey from early experiments with homegrown cannabis in the 90s to shaping cutting-edge cultivation and extraction techniques. During the episode, we discuss the evolving landscape of cannabis testing, the challenges of maintaining quality in competitive
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Episode 159 – Social Equity, Cannabis Testing, and the .3% Line
In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Miggy and Phil for a lively discussion on the evolving dynamics of the hemp and cannabis industries. They explore the blurred lines between hemp and marijuana, the implications of Illinois’ strict regulations, and the impact of social equity programs. From consumer safety concerns with synthetic products to
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Episode 158 – Illinois Cannabis Transport Challenges & Hemp
In this episode, I welcome Ted Parks, chairman of the Independent Third-Party Carriers Association (ITPCA), to discuss the trials and triumphs of independent cannabis transporters in Illinois. We explore the financial challenges transporters face and the regulatory landscape. Ted shares his advocacy journey, insights into the industry, and the importance of equity in cannabis policy. The
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Episode 157 – Law Enforcement Perspective on Cannabis Legalization and Policy
In this episode, Cole engages in a thought-provoking conversation with RJ, a former law enforcement officer with 20 years of experience at local, state, and federal levels, including work with DHS and border security. This episode is audio only. They explore nuanced views on cannabis legalization, medical use, and public policy, while reflecting on enforcement
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Illinois Expands Medical Cannabis Program with 4 New Qualifying Conditions
For the first time in six years, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has approved four new conditions eligible for treatment with medical cannabis. IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra approved the conditions after a board advisory review. The newly added conditions are: Qualifying patients must be diagnosed with a debilitating condition, as defined in
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Push to Ban Federally-Legal Cannabis in Illinois Fails Alongside Cannabis Omnibus
In my last article, I wrote about the Lame Duck legislative session in Illinois. Ahead of the session, industry stakeholders intensified efforts to advance policy amendments to HB2911, which aimed to update the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act(CRTA). In addition to proposed amendments to the CRTA, Governor Pritzker expressed support for a bill (HB4293)
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How Cannabis Policy Could Change for “Legal” Illinois in 2025
Illinois cannabis policy has made little headway over the last decade. Only a small number of proposed changes have successfully become law. This article explores what the future may hold for cannabis consumers and entrepreneurs in Illinois in 2025. The end of the article highlights key cannabis policy developments over the years. 2025: The Year
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