Let's be Blunt with Montel

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Montel Round-up on the Latest Cannabis News and Science Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

Host Montel Williams goes solo in this cannabis news roundup, breaking down the latest federal legalization developments including Trump's potential rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.

Discover groundbreaking medical research showing cannabis benefits for PTSD in veterans and neuroprotective effects in older adults, while Montel takes a critical look at the controversial Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) and questions its sudden prominence in mainstream media. The episode culminates with Montel's passionate call for federal legalization, challenging politicians to stop playing games and embrace the scientific evidence supporting cannabis reform.

Links to articles covered in the podcast:

WSJ-Trump Weighs Reclassifying Marijuana as Less Dangerous Drug

https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/trump-marijuana-federal-drug-classification-01a73b8c?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=ASWzDAi0_y6tlUMV4jZbsDDeVSaXEskw_pxjtLho0N5ba5WDD50SNAoABlPexU8L290%3D&gaa_ts=689a2f6f&gaa_sig=9d1wcl6QK2SAYJIf4Dz2CpjnqORMz8vUGiJBEnPgk7Yad3MwIyZLB84-dQV8Vu0faZ5vIm_Jz9xT1kCaeX-Qwg%3D%3D

Marijuana Moment- Using Marijuana Helps Military Veterans Experience

Lower PTSD Symptoms On Days They Use It, federally Funded Study Shows

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/using-marijuana-helps-military-veterans-experience-lower-ptsd-symptoms-on-days-they-use-it-federally-funded-study-shows/

Marijuana Moment-Cannabis May Be 'Viable Alternative' Treatment For Dogs With Common Skin Disease, Case Study Shows

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/cannabis-may-be-viable-alternative-treatment-for-dogs-with-common-skin-disease-case-study-shows/

Marijuana Moment-Psychedelic Retreats ‘Significantly Improved’ Mental Health For Military Veterans With PTSD And Depression, Study Finds

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/psychedelic-retreats-significantly-improved-mental-health-for-military-veterans-with-ptsd-and-depression-study-finds/

Marijuana Moment-Marijuana Users Have 'Enhanced Cognitive Abilities', Large Federally Funded Study Shows

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/marijuana-users-have-enhanced-cognitive-abilities-large-federally-funded-study-shows/

PBS-What is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome? Here’s what to know, and why experts say it’s on the rise

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/what-is-cannabinoid-hyperemesis-syndrome-heres-what-to-know-and-why-experts-say-its-on-the-rise

Marijuana Moment-Psychedelic Retreats 'Significantly Improved' Mental Health For Military Veterans With PTSD and Depression, Study Finds

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/psychedelic-retreats-significantly-improved-mental-health-for-military-veterans-with-ptsd-and-depression-study-finds/

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Educating for Change with Sabrina Fayaz and Dr Bottaro Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

In this enlightening episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by two trailblazers in the field of medical cannabis education and advocacy: Professor Sabrina Fayaz and Dr. Nick Bottaro.

Professor Fayaz, Director of the Master of Science in Medical Cannabinoid Therapeutics (MS MCT) program at LECOM, shares her incredible journey from working with multi-state cannabis operators to using cannabis as part of her own breast cancer recovery. Her personal and professional experiences offer a unique perspective on cannabis as a legitimate therapeutic option.

Dr. Bottaro, an adjunct professor in the same program and a doctor of osteopathic medicine, brings his expertise as a patient advocate and researcher. With thousands of cannabis assessments under his belt and groundbreaking research in cannabinoid-based treatments, Dr. Bottaro provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of medical cannabis.

Together, they discuss the importance of education in breaking down stigma, the future of cannabis in healthcare, and the groundbreaking work being done at LECOM’s MS MCT program. From personal success stories to the latest advancements in cannabis research, this episode is packed with inspiration and information for anyone curious about the therapeutic potential of cannabis.

Tune in for an unfiltered conversation that’s sure to challenge perceptions and spark meaningful dialogue. Don’t miss it!

🎧 Subscribe, review, and share to help spread the word!

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From Finance to Wellness: Brad Zerman’s Impactful Pivot Aug 14, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by a true pioneer in the cannabis industry, Brad Zerman. As the founder of Seven Point Dispensary in Oak Park, Illinois, Brad has been at the forefront of medical cannabis innovation and community engagement since 2014. From navigating the challenges of launching one of Illinois’ first medical dispensaries to expanding his footprint with licenses across multiple states, Brad’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

We’ll dive into his transition from the finance and payment processing industries to cannabis, the hurdles he faced in building Seven Point, and how his focus on patient education and community workshops became a cornerstone of his success. Brad also shares his insights on the evolving cannabis landscape, the role of medical cannabis as an alternative to opioids, and the future of independent dispensaries in a rapidly growing industry.

Whether you’re a cannabis entrepreneur, a patient, or just curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiring stories. Tune in to hear Brad’s vision for the future of cannabis and his advice for those looking to make their mark in this highly regulated space.

Don’t miss this candid and insightful conversation with one of the industry’s most experienced leaders.

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Mindful Living Meets Cannabis: Mary Bernuth’s Story Aug 07, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving into a story of reinvention, resilience, and redefining wellness. Montel sits down with Mary Bernuth, Co-Founder and President of Pharos Brands, to explore her inspiring journey into the cannabis industry—one she embarked on in her 60s after a dynamic career spanning global brand launches, film publicity, nonprofit leadership, and executive therapy.

Mary shares how her background in psychology and storytelling shaped her mission to create Pharos Brands, a wellness-forward cannabis beverage company designed for mindful, mature consumers. From breaking down the stigma around cannabis for baby boomers to ensuring trust and consistency in hemp-derived drinks, Mary’s insights are as refreshing as her products.

Tune in as Montel and Mary discuss the challenges of launching a cannabis brand later in life, the role of storytelling in shifting perceptions, and how cannabis beverages can fit into a broader wellness lifestyle. Whether you’re curious about plant wellness or looking for inspiration to embrace change at any stage of life, this episode is packed with wisdom and heart.

Stay curious, stay informed, and stay blunt!

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From Runs House to Cannabis and Mental Health Advocacy with JoJo Simmons Jul 31, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by the multi-talented JoJo Simmons, a name synonymous with entertainment, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. As the son of hip-hop legend Rev Run of Run DMC, JoJo grew up in the spotlight, starring in MTV’s Run’s House and WE TV’s Growing Up Hip Hop. But his story goes far beyond reality TV.

JoJo is the CEO and co-founder of Whos House Entertainment, a music production company dedicated to developing artists, and the general manager of Whos House Ballers, a traveling basketball team for underserved youth in Queens, NY. He’s also making waves in the mental health space with his For Good Podcast, where he tackles raw, soul-level conversations about mental health, personal growth, and living with intention.

In this candid conversation, JoJo opens up about his journey from growing up in hip-hop royalty to carving his own path as a creative powerhouse and advocate. We’ll dive into his work with nonprofits like the Cannabis Voter Project and The Last Prisoner Project, his passion for holistic wellness, and his mission to amplify underrepresented voices through his media company, 3isFor.

JoJo also shares insights on fatherhood, leadership, and the lessons he’s learned building multiple successful ventures. Plus, he gives us a glimpse into his latest projects, including a veteran transition home in Atlanta and his vision for the future of the music industry.

This is an episode packed with inspiration, purpose, and unfiltered conversation. Don’t miss it!

Tune in to Let’s Be Blunt with Montel this Tuesday at 3:30 PM to hear JoJo Simmons’ incredible story.

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From Sour Diesel to HoneyProjects: Big Dave’s Cannabis Journey Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving deep into the roots of cannabis culture with a true legend in the industry—Dave Valese, aka “Big Dave.” With 29 years of experience, Big Dave has gone from the underground cannabis scene of the Northeast to leading the charge in New Jersey’s legal market as the Chief Visionary Officer of HoneyProjects.

Join Montel and Big Dave as they explore his incredible journey, from cultivating authentic Sour Diesel in the ‘90s to building award-winning dispensaries like HoneyGrove and HoneyStash. Discover how Big Dave is redefining the cannabis experience by championing small-batch, independent brands, supporting local arts and culture, and creating community-driven spaces that celebrate cannabis’s authentic roots.

But it’s not just about the plants—Big Dave shares his personal transformation story, losing 200 pounds and embracing a wellness-focused lifestyle, and how that journey fuels his mission to make cannabis a tool for holistic health and connection.

Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur, a budding entrepreneur, or just curious about the future of the industry, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a whole lot of passion. Tune in to hear how Big Dave is blazing a trail for the next generation of cannabis culture.

Stay blunt, stay informed, and don’t miss this one!

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From Inmate to Advocate: Travis Cullen’s Fight for Cannabis Justice Jul 17, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Travis Cullen, a man who turned his eight-year federal prison sentence for cannabis into a mission for justice and change. At just 21 years old, Travis was sentenced for a first-time offense involving cannabis. Today, he’s not only a licensed dispensary owner in Minnesota but also the CEO of Freedom Soda, a brand dedicated to supporting those still incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses.

Travis shares his journey from incarceration to advocacy, including his recent event in Washington, D.C., where he brought together individuals who were granted clemency after serving life sentences for cannabis. He discusses the harsh realities faced by those still behind bars, the importance of social equity in the cannabis industry, and his vision for a more just future.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about cannabis reform, social justice, and the fight to free those still imprisoned for what is now a legal and thriving industry.

Tune in to hear Travis’s inspiring story and learn how you can join the movement to make a difference.

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Sowing the Future: Sergio Martínez on Cannabis Seeds Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving into the roots—literally—of the cannabis industry: seeds.

Joining Montel is Sergio Martínez, founder of Blimburn Seeds, one of the world’s leading cannabis seed companies. Recently featured in Forbes for his pivotal role in shaping the booming $4 billion home cultivation market, Sergio brings over 20 years of expertise in cannabis genetics, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Tune in as Sergio shares how European seed companies are quietly dominating the U.S. market, why home-growing is exploding in popularity, and how shifting regulations are opening new doors for cannabis cultivation.

From the role of genetics in creating premium strains to the rise of micro-cultivation and sustainable farming, Sergio offers a fascinating look at the trends and opportunities shaping the future of cannabis.

Whether you’re a seasoned grower, a curious beginner, or just interested in the business and culture of cannabis, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned, stay informed, and as always, stay blunt!

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The Role of Cannabis in Reshaping Cancer Care | Jamie Bennett and Jim Gerencser Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel", we explore the intersection of cannabis, cancer care, and patient empowerment with two incredible guests.

Jim Gerencser, Co-Founder of Cancer Playbook, shares how his son Eric's cancer diagnosis led him to redefine patient care through the mantra "Patient-Reported Outcomes + Research = Playbooks." Jim reveals how alternative therapies like cannabis brought meaningful improvements to Eric's quality of life, igniting a mission to turn lived experiences into actionable guidance for others.

Joining Jim is Jamie Bennett, Co-Founder of Cancer Playbook and a healthcare disrupter whose deeply personal experiences as a 20-year endometriosis patient and the loss of loved ones to cancer have fueled her commitment to whole-person, patient-led care.

Jamie discusses how Cancer Playbook supports patients by merging real-world outcomes with cutting-edge research to create personalized tools for navigating cancer.

Montel dives into the groundbreaking impact of Cancer Playbook, the global success of the E.R.I.C. (Early Recognition Is Critical) program, and the role of cannabis in reshaping cancer care.

Tune in to learn how this revolutionary model is empowering patients, caregivers, and families with hope, practical tools, and research-backed solutions.

Want to know more?

Visit CancerPlaybook.org and start building your personalized playbook today!

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Cannabis News Roundup with Montel Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back to Let's Be Blunt with Montel! This week, Montel dives into the latest cannabis news in a special roundup episode. No guests, just Montel breaking down critical updates from around the globe.

📰 Here’s what’s in store:

Capitol Hill Conversations – Senators Elizabeth Warren and Melanie Stansbury are making waves with their call to prioritize cannabis decriminalization over wasteful federal spending. How could it reshape policy, equity, and public safety?
Costa Rica's Cannabis Regulations – Discover how Costa Rica’s groundbreaking medicinal cannabis reforms are setting a global example for responsible production and economic innovation.
Cannabis and Cancer Breakthroughs – Learn about recent research showing cannabinoids’ potential in oncology, from easing chemotherapy symptoms to inhibiting tumor growth. Montel also highlights exciting news from South Korea’s cutting-edge cannabinoid research.

Whether you’re a business leader, a medical professional, or just curious about the next chapter of cannabis reform, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in to get informed, stay inspired, and—as always—stay blunt. 🎙️

Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social channels.

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