Let's be Blunt with Montel

Latest Episodes:

Cannabis Quality, Safety, and Normalization | Dr. Jeff Rawson Jul 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel," we are thrilled to welcome back a familiar face—Dr. Jeff Rawson, Ph.D., President and Founder of the Institute of Cannabis Science. With an impressive background in chemistry and public health, Dr. Rawson is a leading figure in cannabis research and policy advocacy.

Join us as we dive deep into critical issues surrounding cannabis quality, safety, and normalization. Dr. Rawson shares his insights on the dangers of pesticides in cannabis cultivation, the impact of molds like Aspergillus, and the alarming prevalence of testing fraud.

We'll also discuss the responsibilities of medical professionals and patients when considering cannabis for treatment, the future of cannabis legislation, and effective ways to normalize cannabis use while ensuring public safety.

Get ready for an enlightening conversation that not only educates but also advocates for safer and more informed cannabis consumption. Don't miss this chance to hear from one of the foremost experts in the field!

Tune in now and learn how to ensure your cannabis intake maintains top-notch quality and safety.

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Florida's 2024 Ballot Initiative to Legalize Adult Use | Moriah Barnhart Jun 29, 2024

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In this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Moriah Barnhart, a prominent advocate and businesswoman from the Tampa Bay Area, to discuss the groundbreaking Florida Amendment 3. On the ballot in November 2024, this initiative aims to legalize adult-use cannabis for those aged 21 and older. Moriah brings her wealth of experience in the medical cannabis community to the table, providing valuable insights into the potential impacts of this initiative on Florida's economy, job market, and overall cannabis landscape.

The discussion begins with an overview of Florida Amendment 3, detailing what the initiative entails and what it would legalize. We then explore the major players backing and opposing the initiative, including Smart and Safe Florida and Drug Free America. Our conversation takes a deep dive into how legalization could bring significant economic benefits, potentially generating between $4.9 billion to $6.1 billion in sales in the first year. We also discuss the necessary steps to achieve the required 60% supermajority vote for the amendment.

Insight into Governor DeSantis' stance on adult-use cannabis legalization is shared, aligning Florida's potential legalization with broader national trends. We highlight how the initiative might influence voter turnout in the 2024 elections, particularly among younger demographics. The proposed tax rates and how the funds will be allocated are discussed in detail, along with the impact of legalization on past marijuana-related convictions through the expungement of convictions.

Join us for an in-depth conversation that not only sheds light on Florida's legislative landscape but also emphasizes the broader implications of cannabis reform. Tune in to get informed, get involved, and stay ahead of the curve.

Learn more about Florida Amendment 3 and how you can contribute to this historic movement at https://www.wiseflorida.org.

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Cannabis Industry Rooted In | Brian Keith and Holly Alberti Jun 27, 2024

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Welcome back to another episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel." In this enlightening episode, Montel Williams is joined by two trailblazers in the cannabis industry, Brian Keith and Holly Alberti. Brian Keith is the Co-Founder & COO of Rooted In, a community-conscious dispensary in Boston's Back Bay, and Holly Alberti serves as the VP of Sales & Business Development.

Rooted In stands out in the cannabis landscape with a mission deeply rooted in racial equity and community engagement. In this episode, Brian and Holly share their journeys into the cannabis industry, the unique mission of Rooted In, and the various ways they are working to build generational wealth and create a more just and equitable industry. Key points discussed include the background and vision behind Rooted In, the importance of racial equity and community engagement in the cannabis industry, the challenges and successes Rooted In has faced, the potential impact of cannabis rescheduling on the industry, how small businesses can stay competitive against multi-state operators (MSOs), and insights into making the cannabis industry more equitable.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion and learn how you can support or get involved with Rooted In's mission to create a more inclusive and equitable cannabis industry.

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful episodes, and visit Rooted In's website to learn more about their incredible work and how you can support their mission. Stay informed and stay blunt!

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Fighting for relief: A Mother's Struggle for Medical Cannabis | Crista Eggers Jun 20, 2024

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In this compelling episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, Montel talks with Nebraskan activist Crista Eggers, who is on a mission to legalize medicinal cannabis in Nebraska. Crista's fight is personal—her 9-year-old son, Colton, suffers from severe epilepsy, and traditional pharmaceuticals have failed to provide relief. With a looming deadline of July 3, Crista and her team must gather over 87,000 signatures on two petitions to get a medical cannabis initiative on the state's November ballot.

Join Montel and Crista as they discuss:

Colton's health struggles and the desperate need for medical cannabis
The challenges and triumphs of gathering signatures for the ballot initiative
The broader implications of Nebraska's cannabis laws in comparison to other states
The personal toll on families fighting for access to life-changing treatments

Crista provides a raw, heartfelt look at the obstacles faced by patients and caregivers in states without medical cannabis laws. Her resilience and determination offer hope and inspiration to families in similar situations.

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Hemp for Veterans | Robert Head Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel"! In this compelling episode, Montel Williams dives into the world of cannabis advocacy specifically aimed at supporting veterans. Our guest is Robert Head, a dedicated advocate and the founder of Hemp for Victory.

Robert's story is inspiring—after serving honorably in the Army and experiencing the challenges many veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life, he recognized a significant gap in the care provided to veterans, particularly regarding mental and physical health. This realization propelled him into the world of cannabis advocacy, where he has become a driving force for change.

In this episode, we explore:

Robert's background and military service
His transition into the cannabis industry
The pivotal moment that led to the creation of Hemp for Victory
The diverse and influential board members supporting this mission
Efforts to dismantle the stigma surrounding cannabis use
The upcoming initiatives and collaborations for Hemp for Victory
Personal insights and anecdotes from Robert’s work with veterans

Join us as we uncover the vital role that cannabis is playing in helping veterans manage PTSD, chronic pain, and other post-service health issues. This is leaders educating leaders—making impactful change happen.

Tune in to this enlightening episode and learn how you can support the mission of Hemp for Victory. Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful discussions. Let's be blunt about it—change starts here.

Follow us on social media for updates and more conversations like this. Thanks for listening, and remember, change starts with being blunt.

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Cannabis vs Marijuana: The Power of Language | David Paleschuck Jun 06, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel." We’re thrilled to have David Paleschuck, a branding expert who’s worked with giants like American Express, MasterCard, PepsiCo, and Microsoft, joining us. Since venturing into the cannabis industry in 2012, David has become a pioneer in cannabis branding and marketing.

In this episode, David and Montel discuss the intricate language of cannabis, examining how words shape perceptions, influence legislation, and either unify or divide us. With his new book, "Cannabis vs. Marijuana: Language, Landscape, and Context," David dives deep into the significance of cannabis terminology and its impact on society.

Key Points:

David's transition from mainstream brand-building to cannabis branding
Insights from "Branding Bud: The Commercialization of Cannabis"
The motivation behind "Cannabis vs. Marijuana" and why the distinction between these terms matters
How language evolution impacts legal and social frameworks surrounding cannabis
Examples of misused words within the industry
Implications of the DEA potentially reclassifying cannabis
Navigating linguistic challenges in branding and marketing within the cannabis industry
Media's role in shaping cannabis terminology
Effective marketing strategies amidst advertising restrictions
Innovative products in the cannabis marketplace
Future predictions for the evolution of cannabis globally

David's expertise and insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone involved in or curious about the cannabis industry. Tune in to understand how language plays a crucial role in shaping the future of cannabis. Listen now and be sure to grab a copy of David's latest book, "Cannabis vs. Marijuana: Language, Landscape, and Context," to stay ahead in the cannabis conversation.

Stay informed, stay elevated, and keep the conversation going.

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The Future of Cannabis | Alexis Rosenberg, Esq. May 30, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Let’s Be Blunt with Montel," we delve into the rapidly changing world of cannabis entrepreneurship. Join Montel Williams as he welcomes Alexis Rosenberg, Esq., a distinguished legal analyst and co-founder of Rosenberg Law PA, to uncover how new regulatory shifts are reshaping the industry landscape. Alexis brings a wealth of expertise in business and healthcare law, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to venture into the cannabis sector. With offices on both coasts of Florida, her firm specializes in guiding business owners through complex legal terrains. Discover how Alexis’s early interest in law, sparked by personal tragedy, led her to become a pioneering legal authority, and understand the implications of the DEA reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III for new cannabis entrepreneurs. Learn about crucial legal traps to avoid when starting a cannabis business and why maintaining a close relationship with legal advisors is essential amidst swift regulatory changes. Explore the prospects for research and development in the cannabis sector with the transition to Schedule III, and get sage advice on navigating financial management in an evolving legal environment. Gain strategies to ensure ventures align with current and past regulations, and key actions entrepreneurs must take to comply with state-level mandates. Understand how to safeguard innovations and intellectual property in a competitive market, and principal elements to consider for compliant and safe operations in the cannabis industry.

Alexis also shares insights and advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs in the cannabis space and expectations for the potential passing of adult-use legislation in Florida. Her final thoughts include additional wisdom and advice for cannabis entrepreneurs. Alexis Rosenberg’s insights are indispensable for anyone navigating the evolving cannabis industry. Her discussion with Montel sheds light on the complexities and opportunities within this dynamic field, underscoring the importance of diligence, legal guidance, and innovation. To our listeners, we hope this episode has illuminated the critical aspects of entering the cannabis industry, especially in light of significant regulatory transformations. The future of cannabis is being shaped by those bold enough to navigate its waters today. Stay informed, stay inspired, and remember—let’s all continue to be blunt about our pursuit.

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Europe’s Cannabis Evolution | Dr. Andy Mannsfeld May 23, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another illuminating episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel"! This is the go-to podcast for all the canna-curious minds out there seeking unfiltered truths about cannabis and its global impact. Today, we're setting sail across the Atlantic to explore the burgeoning cannabis landscape of the European Union. We're honored to have a distinguished guest who has witnessed the seismic shifts in the cannabis industry from two different continents. Meet Dr. Andy Mannsfeld—born in Germany, bred in the US, and now a stalwart in the European cannabis space.

Episode Highlights: Dr. Andy Mannsfeld's Background: Discover Dr. Mannsfeld's journey from growing up in Germany to practicing medicine in the US, and his first exposure to medical cannabis in Colorado. German Cannabis Legalization: Get an insider's view of the new German cannabis legalization law and what it means for the future. Medical Cannabis in Europe vs. the US: How does medical cannabis use in places like Germany and across Europe compare to what we've seen in the States? Cannabis Legislation Across Europe: Learn how various European countries are approaching cannabis legalization. Business and Employment Opportunities: With new laws sprouting, what's the business buzz? What types of employment opportunities are emerging in the European cannabis industry? Andy’s Cannabis Jobs Platform: Hear about Dr. Mannsfeld's motivation to create a cannabis jobs platform for the EU and his vision for its evolution over the coming years. Join us as we dive deep into these topics and more, offering you a comprehensive look at the European cannabis scene. Dr. Mannsfeld's unique perspective, having had a ringside seat in Colorado during the legalization wave and now in Germany, promises insights you won't want to miss.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the European cannabis landscape and its future. Dr. Mannsfeld's expertise and firsthand experiences make this an episode you can't afford to skip. If you enjoyed our conversation today, please rate us, share this episode with your friends, and subscribe for more candid talks.

This is Montel Williams signing off, and remember, wherever you are in the world, let's be blunt! Stay informed, stay engaged, and stay blunt with Montel.

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Trailblazing in NJ Cannabis | Tara "Misu" Sargente May 16, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to another insightful episode of “Let’s Be Blunt with Montel.” In this episode we're taking a fascinating journey into the heart of New Jersey’s burgeoning cannabis industry. Our spotlight is on a true trailblazer, Tara "Misu" Sargente, founder of Blazin’ Bakery—the first legal edibles company in New Jersey.

Tara shares her incredible journey from designer and branding specialist to becoming a leading voice in the cannabis industry. We delve into the inception of Blazin’ Bakery and the innovative idea behind their DIY pot brownie mix. Tara also discusses her role in co-authoring the historic 2019 Medical Marijuana Bill, Jake Honig’s Law, and how the poignant story of Jake Honig has shaped the state's medical cannabis framework.

But that's not all! Tara gives us an exclusive look at her latest venture, Alchemy Green—a new manufacturing facility set to revolutionize the market. We explore the challenges of financing ambitious projects through crowdfunding platforms like Manifest and how this approach aligns with her goals.

We also touch on the importance of staying ahead in the fast-evolving cannabis industry, Tara's vision for creating a cannabis hub in South River, and the critical role trade associations play in advancing the industry. Plus, Tara shares valuable advice for those looking to enter the cannabis market in New Jersey, her preferred method of cannabis consumption, and the tunes that set the perfect vibe for her ideal session.

This episode is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone interested in the cannabis industry. So, don’t miss out—tune in now!

Be sure to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Tune in and join us on this enlightening journey into the world of NJ cannabis with Tara "Misu" Sargente.

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The Future of Luxury Cannabis | Terrence White May 09, 2024

Show notes

In this eye-opening episode of 'Let's Be Blunt with Montel', we sit down with Terrence White, the dynamic CEO behind Monko, a brand that's redefining luxury in the cannabis market and setting a bold standard for social equity in the industry. With a rich background in real estate and an impressive portfolio of entrepreneurial success, Terrence shares his unique journey from navigating the property market to establishing a leading name in luxury cannabis with Monko.

Listeners will be treated to an insider look at what it takes to pivot careers into the burgeoning cannabis industry, the inspiration behind creating an upscale cannabis experience, and the importance of integrating social justice into the heart of the cannabis business model.

Terrence dives deep into the essence of the Monko experience, shedding light on the brand's vertical integration and how it maintains its pioneering edge in a rapidly evolving industry. He doesn't shy away from discussing the challenges and rewards of advocating for social equity, his vision for the future of cannabis, and his plans for expanding Monko's luxury experience beyond DC.

For those intrigued by the intersection of cannabis, luxury, and social impact, or looking to make more informed choices in the world of high-end cannabis, Terrence offers actionable advice and insights.

Tune in on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 3:30pm for a compelling conversation that promises to enrich your perspective on the luxury cannabis lifestyle and the power of entrepreneurial spirit in championing social change. Don't miss out on this candid discussion that's as enlightening as it is inspiring.

Remember: Innovation, integrity, and impact drive the future of cannabis. Discover how Monko is leading the way by joining us on this episode of 'Let's Be Blunt with Montel'. Stay informed, stay inspired, and, as always, keep it blunt.

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