Let's be Blunt with Montel

Latest Episodes:

Cooperative Cannabis Farming with Jason Hanley Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re exploring the world of cooperative cannabis farming and caregiver rights in the breathtaking islands of Hawaii. Montel sits down with Jason Hanley, a U.S. Army veteran, biologist, and the owner of Care Waialua Medical Cannabis Farm, to uncover the realities of Hawaii's cannabis landscape.

Jason brings over 22 years of cannabis-growing experience across multiple states and is a leading advocate for patients' rights and sustainable medical cannabis programs in Hawaii. He shares his firsthand experience navigating the challenges of legislative hurdles, the controversial 2023 raid on his Oahu farm, and his ongoing mission to protect caregiver rights.

We’ll also discuss the Hawaii Medical Cannabis Act of 2025 and the push for policies that empower local growers, create jobs, and ensure affordable access to medical cannabis. Whether you’re a cannabis advocate, policy enthusiast, or someone passionate about community health, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Tune in to hear Jason’s incredible story, his fight for equitable cannabis policies, and how he’s building a movement for patients and caregivers alike.

🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

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Exploring Minnesota’s New Cannabis Landscape with Mitch Chargo Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Mitch Chargo, a partner at Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP and a leading expert in cannabis law, to discuss the intricacies of Minnesota’s newly enacted adult-use cannabis program. With nearly three decades of legal experience, Mitch has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s cannabis industry.

Join us as Mitch breaks down Minnesota’s regulatory framework, licensing processes, financing challenges, and the impact on Indigenous communities. He also shares insights into the hurdles cannabis businesses face, success stories from companies navigating evolving regulations, and his vision for the future of cannabis law across the United States.

Whether you’re a cannabis industry professional or simply curious about the legal complexities behind adult recreational use programs, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

🎧 Tune in now to gain insights and expert advice, only on Let's Be Blunt with Montel!

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Dr June Chin on Cannabis and Integrative Medicine Mar 27, 2025

Show notes

Join Montel Williams on this episode of Let's Be Blunt as he sits down with Dr. June Chin, a trailblazer in integrative medicine and medical cannabis. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Chin has developed internationally recognized cannabis care protocols and educational programs.

Currently the Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell, Vice Chair of the NYS Cannabis Advisory Board, and adjunct professor at NYU and Syracuse University, Dr. Chin is also the author of Cannabis and CBD for Health and Wellness—a comprehensive guide for those new to medical cannabis.

During the conversation, Montel and Dr. Chin explore:

How Leafwell’s virtual platform connects patients with expert cannabis providers.
The impact of medical cannabis on veterans and those suffering from chronic conditions like stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
Simple tips on cannabis dosing, choosing the proper products, and understanding the endocannabinoid system.

Dr. Chin also shares her expert insights into common cannabis misconceptions, best use practices, and the future of cannabis in healthcare.

Curious about cannabis and its role in health and wellness? Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with one of the leading voices in the industry.

Listen now and explore the possibilities with cannabis for health and wellness.

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The Emerald Cup Story: Tim Blake on Cannabis Culture and Innovation Mar 20, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, Montel talks with Tim Blake, a true pioneer in the cannabis world.

Tim is the founder of The Emerald Cup, the most respected outdoor cannabis competition and cultural festival in the world, often referred to as "The Academy Awards of Cannabis."

With over 40 years of experience in the cannabis space, Tim shares his early beginnings in the industry, his passion for sustainable farming and small-scale growers, and how he turned a small Mendocino County gathering into a global cultural movement.

The Emerald Cup is more than a competition; it’s a platform that champions sun-grown cannabis, regenerative agriculture, and the artistry of cannabis cultivators.

Tim and Montel also discuss key industry challenges, the importance of terpene profiles in cannabis evaluation, and the future of cannabis policy and culture.

Whether you’re a connoisseur, advocate, or just curious about the cannabis world, you won’t want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of the industry’s most influential figures.

Tune in now to hear Tim's inspiring story and his vision for the future of cannabis!

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Leadership & Legacy: Gov. Jesse Ventura’s Vision for Cannabis Mar 13, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to another exciting episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel! This week, Montel sits down with a true changemaker, former Governor Jesse Ventura. Known for his dynamic career as a professional wrestler, actor, and political leader, Jesse has also been a bold advocate for cannabis legalization.

On this episode, Jesse shares how his groundbreaking book, Jesse Ventura’s Marijuana Manifesto, challenges the misconceptions surrounding cannabis and calls for an end to the War on Drugs. He discusses why he has long championed both medical and recreational cannabis, the positive impact legalization can have on our economy, and how cannabis became a deeply personal cause for his family.

From cannabis advocacy to life lessons as a leader and insights into the future of the industry, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration.

Tune in to hear how Jesse Ventura continues to push boundaries and spark meaningful change.

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Shaping the Future of Wellness Media with Ricardo Baca Mar 07, 2025

Show notes

Join Montel Williams on this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel as he sits down with Ricardo Baca—a pioneer in cannabis journalism and PR. Ricardo made history as The Denver Post's first-ever cannabis editor, reshaping the conversation around cannabis through groundbreaking reporting and editorial leadership.

Today, as the founder of Grasslands, a PR and marketing agency specializing in cannabis, psychedelics, and natural wellness, Ricardo shares his insights into how storytelling and advocacy are normalizing these industries.

Together, they discuss the evolution of cannabis policy, the power of education, and the rise of psychedelics in wellness. What lessons can psychedelics take from cannabis’ path to legitimacy?

Why has federal legalization for cannabis stalled despite bipartisan support? And how can PR and storytelling combat decades of stigma and misinformation?

Tune in to hear from one of the most influential voices in the cannabis and psychedelics space as he explores where we are, how we got here, and what lies ahead for these rapidly transforming industries.

🎙️ Subscribe, listen, and share this episode with anyone curious about the future of cannabis, psychedelics, and natural wellness!

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Breaking Ground in Cannabis with Adam Bierman Feb 28, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Adam Bierman, the co-founder and former CEO of MedMen—the first U.S. cannabis unicorn valued at over $2 billion during its peak. Adam's bold vision and steadfast determination propelled the cannabis industry into the mainstream, reshaping how the world views and accesses cannabis.

Now, Adam is sharing the unfiltered story of his highs and lows in his upcoming book, Weed Empire: How I Battled Gangsters, Investment Banks, and the Department of Justice to Build the Cannabis Industry in America, releasing April 2025. From reimagining cannabis retail as sleek Apple Store-like spaces to navigating legal challenges in the fight to normalize cannabis, Adam’s journey is packed with ambition, resilience, and valuable lessons.

Tune in as Montel dives into Adam’s experiences, including the sacrifices he made, the risks he took to bring cannabis to Wall Street, and how his monumental accomplishments continue to pave the way for the future of the industry.

This is a must-listen for anyone chasing big dreams or curious about what it takes to lead in one of the most turbulent industries. Stay inspired, stay informed, and always stay blunt.

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The Human Cost of Cannabis Prohibition with Tamara Lyn Netzel Feb 21, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Tamara Lyn Netzel, Founder of Cruel Consequences: Portraits of Misguided Law.

Tamara’s advocacy work sheds light on the devastating, far-reaching impact of outdated cannabis laws. She shares her personal battle with Multiple Sclerosis that led her to cannabis, as well as the heartbreaking and inspiring stories behind her nonprofit’s powerful portrait project.

We also discuss her two groundbreaking books, The Human Cost of Marijuana Prohibition and Humans of Cannabis in a Renaissance of Hope, which highlight the systemic injustices people face long after a cannabis conviction.

Together, we’ll explore how her work is rewriting the narrative around cannabis, breaking stigmas, and driving meaningful change in policies and communities.

This is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Tune in to hear how powerful advocacy and personal stories have become a catalyst for hope and reform.

Resources Mentioned:

Learn more about Cruel Consequences at cruelconsequences.org

Check out Tamara’s books on her website or Amazon!

Listen now and join the movement to end the human cost of marijuana prohibition.

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The Future of Cannabis in Florida with Jamie Miller Feb 14, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we shine a spotlight on the evolving cannabis landscape in the Sunshine State.

Montel is joined by Jamie Miller, a seasoned political strategist with over two decades of experience navigating Florida’s political scene. Jamie brings deep insights from high-stakes campaigns, including the pivotal 2000 presidential recount and key statewide initiatives.

Together, they break down the implications of Florida’s recent Amendment 3 vote, discuss why adult-use cannabis fell short, and explore what’s next for legalization efforts.

From the role of federal policy to the economic opportunities for Floridians, this conversation dives into the critical factors shaping the state’s cannabis future.

Tune in for an informative and eye-opening discussion that highlights opportunities, challenges, and the road ahead for cannabis policy in Florida.

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Breaking Stigmas with Knowledge & Advocacy Feb 07, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Sara Payan—a dynamic educator, award-winning advocate, and podcast host—in a thought-provoking discussion about the role of education in shaping smarter, more impactful cannabis policies.

Sara draws on her wealth of experience, from serving on prominent task forces and committees to being a trusted voice in leading publications like Rolling Stone and Cannabis Now.

Together, we uncover how powerful, informed education can empower policymakers, uplift communities, and dismantle long-standing stigmas around cannabis.

We also explore the importance of educating consumers, the economic impact of better-informed governance, and the critical connection between accessibility, safety, and policy reform.

Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast, policymaker, or educator, this conversation will inspire you to rethink the future of cannabis advocacy and education.

Discover how education can help create a thriving cannabis industry built on fairness, innovation, and opportunity—and learn how you can make a difference, too.

Don’t forget to check out Sara’s insightful podcast, Planted with Sara Payan, for more conversations at the intersection of cannabis, education, and advocacy.

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