-
FDA Releases MDMA Therapy Rejection Letter, MAPS Rick Doblin Responds
The FDA announced today that it will begin releasing future Complete Response Letters (CRLs) promptly after they’re issued and, in a rare move, published 89 previously unreleased CRLs from 2024 onward. Among them was the August 2024 letter to Lykos Therapeutics, which declined approval of MDMA-assisted therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). For the first…
-
Outdoor Cannabis Cultivation in Illinois: Tribune Highlights Story First Reported by The Cole Memo
The Chicago Tribune recently covered the ongoing debate over outdoor cannabis cultivation in Illinois, a story first reported here at The Cole Memo. Their coverage highlights lawsuits and regulatory battles involving companies like Curaleaf, GTI, and Nature’s Grace, who are seeking permission to grow outdoors using hoop houses and screen houses. While state agriculture regulators…
-
Episode 228 – Illinois DUI Scandal and Federal Rescheduling Rumors
In this episode of The Cole Memo, we dig into the fallout from ABC7 Chicago’s latest report on the University of Illinois Chicago’s forensic testing lab. Flawed cannabis DUI testing has put thousands of convictions under scrutiny, raising serious questions about oversight and justice in Illinois. We also look at the ongoing debate around cannabis…
-
Start Here: The Cole Memo
This page brings together a sample of my best work — from expert interviews to deep dives into cannabis history, culture, and policy. You’ll also find documentaries, archives, and special projects here. Whether you’re a longtime follower or a first-time visitor, this page is designed to help you dive in at your own pace. Explore…
-
Episode 227 – SUMMER SUPER SHOW: Elevated News Podcast x The Cole Memo
The Three Dope Dudes are back, this time combining forces like a cannabis Megazord to bring you a packed summer wrap-up. From Illinois craft showcases and brand shoutouts to the real talk on seed-to-sale tracking systems, monopolization, and THC inflation, no topic is off-limits. We explore the politics of hemp versus marijuana, unpack the latest…
-
Episode 226 – Trump’s Cannabis Decision Looms: The Opposition’s Perspective
In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole speaks with Luke from Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) about President Donald Trump’s recent remarks on potentially rescheduling cannabis from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. Luke shares why he believes marijuana should remain Schedule 1, citing concerns over corporate influence, public health, and the federal scheduling system’s…
-
Episode 225 – Trump Considers Rescheduling Cannabis, Illinois Offers New Loans
In this special episode of The Cole Memo, Cole breaks down breaking news on both the federal and state levels. At the federal level, President Trump has confirmed that his administration is “looking at” rescheduling marijuana, with a decision expected within the next few weeks. We review his comments, the political and industry reactions, and…
-
Episode 224 – From Austin to Springfield: Cannabis Policy Battles Across States
In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole returns with a live broadcast covering breaking cannabis news from Illinois, Texas, and beyond. A surprise guest from Texas Cannabis Collective joins to unpack the whirlwind special session in Austin, where a proposed hemp THC ban collided with flood relief, redistricting fights, and a dramatic quorum break.…
-
Episode 223 – Suing the state of Illinois. Special guest!
In this episode, I’ll be joined by a special guest to discuss a lawsuit against the state of Illinois. Links mentioned during show
-
Episode 222 – Cops, Crops & Courtrooms: Illinois Cannabis News Unpacked
In this episode of The Cole Memo, we unpack two big stories shaking up the Illinois cannabis scene. First, we dive into the controversy surrounding a new dispensary planned for West Ridge, partially owned by ten former police officers. While some see it as a redemption arc, others question the ethics of former drug enforcers…
The Cole Memo
Conversations for Change
The Cole Memo 