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In Episode 505 of Cannabis Health Radio, host Robin Swan sits down with Liz Lights Up for an open and honest conversation about cannabis, changing perspectives, and breaking the stigma that has surrounded it for generations. Liz shares her personal history with cannabis and discusses why so many people in the older generation still carry fear, judgment, or misconceptions about its use. Having lived through decades when cannabis was heavily stigmatized, Liz offers a personal perspective on how those attitudes were formed - and why it's time to look at cannabis through a different lens. Through sharing her own experiences, Liz hopes to help older adults feel more comfortable having honest conversations about cannabis, asking questions, and moving beyond stereotypes that have persisted for years. Join Robin and Liz for a heartfelt conversation about challenging old stigmas, changing the way we talk about cannabis, and helping create a more informed and accepting conversation for the older generation. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Exploring the Clinical Side of Medical Cannabis with Dr. Hemant K. Bid Cannabis Health Radio is excited to welcome Dr. Hemant Kumar Bid, a biomedical scientist, educator, and medical-cannabis specialist whose work spans oncology, cancer drug discovery, pharmacology, and emerging therapies. Dr. Bid currently serves as Program Director for the Master of Science in Biotechnology and its Medical Cannabis Therapeutics concentration at Morehouse School of Medicine. As one of the nation’s historically Black medical institutions, Morehouse is known for advancing health equity, building a more diverse healthcare workforce, and improving care in historically underserved communities. Dr. Bid is helping train the next generation of scientists and healthcare leaders to explore new therapies with curiosity, scientific rigor, cultural awareness, and compassion. His Indian heritage also brings an important historical perspective to the conversation. Cannabis has been part of Indian culture and traditional practices for thousands of years. Preparations such as bhang have a longstanding place in Indian cultural and religious history, while ancient writings, including the Atharva Veda, contain early references to the plant. Dr. Bid helps connect that long history with what modern science is discovering about cannabis and the human body. In this episode, Dr. Bid discusses: What cancer actually is and how healthy cells can become rogue cellsWhat scientists currently understand about cannabis, cannabinoids, and cancerWhat cannabis may—and may not—offer people living with cancerThe potential role of cannabinoids in managing pain and nauseaCannabis and treatment-related anxiety and sleep difficultiesAppetite loss and other quality-of-life challengesThe importance of scientific evidence when evaluating medical cannabisHow education and research are helping shape the future of cannabis therapeuticsMedical Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Cannabis Health Radio, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. Cannabis Health Radio is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health or medical decisions. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Justin Kander is one of the original pioneers of the medical cannabis movement. From a young age, he was captivated not only by the cannabis plant itself, but by the science of transforming it into meaningful medicine. With decades of experience in formulation, product development, patient advocacy, and cannabis science, Justin has helped shape some of the industry’s most respected medical cannabis brands. His work has taken him around the world, collaborating with researchers, clinicians, and patients to advance the understanding and application of cannabis as medicine. In this episode, Justin returns to Cannabis Health Radio to share insights from his lifelong journey in the field. Together, we explore the evolving science of medical cannabis, lessons learned from years on the front lines, the development of cannabis-based formulations, and where the future of cannabis medicine may be headed. You’re going to enjoy this conversation. 🎧 Episode 503 of Cannabis Health Radio #CannabisHealthRadio #JustinKander #MedicalCannabis #CannabisScience Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn joins Rev. Dr. Robin Swan for a powerful conversation about cancer, cannabis, resilience and finding purpose after a life-changing diagnosis. Ethan's life had already taken him from professional soccer to winning CBS's Survivor: Africa when, at age 35, he was diagnosed with a rare form of Hodgkin lymphoma. What followed was an intense medical journey involving chemotherapy, radiation, clinical trials and two stem cell transplants. In this episode, Ethan shares his personal experience with medical cannabis and how it became part of the way he managed some of the physical and emotional challenges surrounding cancer treatment and recovery, including nausea, pain, sleep difficulties and anxiety. Ethan and Robin also discuss the changing conversation around cannabis in professional sports, the importance of responsible education and advocacy, and why patients need honest information when making decisions about their health. The conversation goes far beyond cancer. Ethan explains how surviving a life-threatening illness reshaped his sense of purpose and strengthened his commitment to helping others. He discusses Grassroot Soccer, the nonprofit organization he co-founded that uses the power of soccer to improve the health and lives of young people around the world, as well as Kicking Back, his High Times series exploring the intersection of soccer, cannabis and community. In this episode: Ethan's journey from professional soccer to winning Survivor: Africa Being diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at age 35 Chemotherapy, radiation, clinical trials and two stem cell transplants Ethan's personal experience using cannabis during cancer treatment and recovery Cannabis for nausea, pain, sleep and anxiety The emotional and psychological challenges of cancer survivorship How attitudes toward cannabis are changing in professional sports Cannabis education, responsible use and patient advocacy Turning personal crisis into purpose The story and mission behind Grassroot Soccer Ethan's Kicking Back series with High Times Soccer, cannabis and community Using lived experience to help others facing serious illness Learn more about Ethan Zohn Ethan Zohn:https://ethanzohn.com Grassroot Soccer:https://grassrootsoccer.org Cannabis Health Radio Visit:https://cannabishealthradio.com If this conversation could help someone you know, please share the episode. Subscribe to Cannabis Health Radio for more conversations with patients, advocates, researchers and others exploring cannabis, health and healing. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sharon Letts is a national cannabis treasure, educator, and world-renowned writer whose deep love of plants and healing has shaped both her work and her personal journey. A returning guest of Cannabis Health Radio, Sharon first joined the show in Episode 16. Now, in Episode 501, she returns to share reflections from her journey over the past 15 years and the wisdom she has gathered along the way. Through years of writing, educating, and advocating, Sharon has remained deeply connected to the healing power of plants and to challenging the stigma surrounding cannabis. When stigma becomes greater than the truth, Sharon Letts continues to be a voice of knowledge, experience, and wisdom that helps light the way. Learn more about Sharon Letts and her work:sharonletts.com Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health or medical decisions. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“I saw the light, and the light won.” Born with cataracts and living with visual impairment for most of her life, Sage Amdahl never imagined that one unexpected experience would completely change the direction of her life. In this milestone 500th episode of Cannabis Health Radio, Sage shares her remarkable journey of discovering cannabis, learning to trust her own body, and finding healing where traditional approaches had fallen short. What began as a personal path toward wellness soon became something much bigger. Combining her passion for cannabis with her lifelong love of cooking, Sage created a business focused on crafting delicious infused treats designed with both care and purpose. Episode 500 celebrates not only an important milestone for Cannabis Health Radio, but also the power of resilience, curiosity, and following a path that can change lives. Connect with Sage: https://www.facebook.com/sage.amdahl.3 https://www.facebook.com/420sageadvice Cannabis Health Radio shares real stories from patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers and advocates exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis and other plant medicines. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode, Robin Swan sits down with Ian Jessop to reflect on the journey of Cannabis Health Radio — how it began, the remarkable stories that have inspired listeners around the world, the legacy of co-host Corrie Yelland, and the people who made it all possible. Together, they look back on nearly a decade of sharing stories of hope and healing while looking ahead to the next chapter, as Robin prepares to carry the podcast forward with the same commitment to compassion, education and the power of personal stories. Ian Jessop's final episode as host of Cannabis Health Radio (episode 499), marking the handover of the podcast to Robin Swan of Swan Apothecary. Ian is stepping down approaching his 80th birthday to focus on personal wellbeing and time with his three-year-old granddaughter. Cannabis Health Radio originated from Ian's time as a Victoria talk show host, where a listener email from Corrie — a cancer survivor given 4–6 months to live — sparked the concept of a cannabis health story-based podcast. After being fired from radio on June 21st, Ian launched the podcast with Corrie, initially producing one episode every weekday for 11 months before pausing for two years, then relaunching on a weekly format. Recording challenges included a venue refusing them due to cannabis content; Ron Zahar's Victoria studio and later Dan Humiston's Colorado studio (still used today) enabled continuity, including through COVID. Story-driven content was a deliberate editorial choice from the start — personal testimonials over business promotions — cited as the key reason for the podcast's success and its ~100,000 followers across platforms. Robin's background spans structural integration neuromuscular therapy specializing in brain trauma and spinal cord injury, with extensive work across NFL, LPGA, and PGA athletes, where cannabis topicals and psilocybin became part of her therapeutic toolkit. Cannabis has been central to Robin's practice from topical applications with professional athletes to internal medicine for life-threatening illness, with Project Walk's spinal cord rehabilitation work further shaping her approach. Physical movement was emphasized as essential to longevity — Ian's use of kettlebells (swings with 60 lbs) and grocery store work cited as examples; Robin reinforced that health is accumulative and cannot be reversed late in life without consistent effort. Corrie's passing was identified as the greatest loss of the podcast's run — Ian described being in shock upon hearing the news and considered ending the show, but continued out of respect for her mission. Greatest gain highlighted was the breadth of life-changing stories, including ~30 brain tumor interviewees with 28 still alive, and parents who recovered and will see their children grow up. Robin committed to maintaining the platform's founding values of love, care, and kindness, while taking a firmer stance against scammers and haters; she warned listeners that unsolicited inbox offers of miracle medicine are always scams. Educating the community to self-regulate — through tools like muscle testing and informed product evaluation — was framed as a key strategic direction for the podcast going forward. Robin brings a reverend doctorate background and a 30-year, 30,000-client practice to the role, intending to use her title formally to convey reverence for cannabis as food, shelter, clothing, medicine, and enjoyment. Ian expressed full confidence in Robin's stewardship, thanked his wife Liisa for doing all the work behind the scenes, and signed off as a future listener. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John Prinz shares his story of replacing 1,100 mg/day OxyContin with medical cannabis, positioning him as an early "patient zero" in opioid-to-cannabis transition. A 1992 workplace injury at Simpson Paper in Anderson, CA led to five spinal surgeries, hardware implantation, and a spinal cord injury diagnosis, setting the foundation for extreme opioid dependency. At peak dosage around 2004–2005, John was prescribed over 1,100 mg of OxyContin daily alongside 13 other medications — far exceeding the typical 20–40 mg average — before the opioid epidemic was officially recognized. Dr. Lester Grinspoon's book "Marijuana, the Forbidden Medicine" was the turning point, leading John to recognize opioids as legal heroin and motivating his decision to pursue cannabis as a replacement. Transition off opioids took approximately 18 months of withdrawal, during which John developed his cannabis olive oil formula "Fusatima" — progressing from smoking to edibles to concentrated olive oil infusions. Fusatima is made with 3 liters of Costco olive oil and 1 lb of high-quality cannabis, slow-cooked at 180°F; one tablespoon yields ~300 mg combined THCA/THC, with a full dose of 4 tablespoons twice daily reaching ~2,400 mg. Lower heat during preparation preserves more THCA (non-psychoactive), while higher heat converts it to THC — allowing dosage customization depending on whether patients want psychoactive effects. THCA capsules made from raw, unheated cannabis are recommended for patients who want pain relief without the high, broadening the formula's accessibility. Post-surgery use at UCSF in June 2025 demonstrated Fusatima's clinical viability — John used no opioids after his sixth back surgery, self-administering the formula four days post-op with his surgeon's awareness. John's pain doctor Dr. Michael H. Moskowitz documented cannabis use in monthly medical records from 2005 to 2021, and those papers have since been used to educate other patients and gain acceptance from Medicare and Social Security. Advocacy efforts included writing Senator Dianne Feinstein starting in 2009, which John credits as contributing to OxyContin's removal from the market by 2011–2015, and writing Senator Obama in 2007 requesting rescheduling. Fentanyl's rise on the streets is directly linked to forced opioid withdrawal — patients lost prescriptions without a sanctioned alternative, and cannabis remains underutilized due to stigma even among marijuana advocates. Trump's executive order rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III is seen as a pivotal moment, though pharmaceutical companies including Jazz Pharmaceutical (105 patents), Pfizer (25), and Bristol-Myers Squibb (36) are positioned to commercialize it. Getting Fusatima into pharmacies — regardless of who manufactures it, including potentially a Sackler-backed company — is the stated goal, as insurance reimbursement only becomes possible once it reaches the pharmacy system. Core takeaway: growing your own cannabis is the most reliable path to access and affordability — patients who don't grow will struggle to maintain supply, and self-sufficiency is framed as the foundation of medical freedom. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chronic pain originated from genetic degenerative disc disease after the birth of her second child, leading to muscle spasms, failed artificial disc implant (FDA trial), spinal fusion, and permanent nerve damage in both legs. At peak pharmaceutical use, Shelley was on approximately seven medications — including pain, antidepressant, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and panic medications — with five taken daily. Side effects from pharmaceuticals included nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, hair loss, poor nail and dental health, and chronic lack of deep sleep. Cannabis was first introduced by her Colorado chronic pain specialist, who permitted concurrent use with pain medication; she began with edibles primarily to address severe appetite loss and weight loss. Beyond appetite, cannabis progressively reduced anxiety, stress, and other symptoms, surprising Shelley given her Gen X perception of it as a "stoner drug." Her doctor's indictment for Medicare fraud in Colorado — abandoning 250+ patients overnight and destroying records — forced a pivotal choice; she opted to transition fully to cannabis rather than restart the pharmaceutical advocacy process. Going cold turkey off pain medication in 2020 was manageable partly because cannabis had already built mental resilience, contrasting with pharmaceuticals which she felt made her mentally unstable. Shelley noted it took approximately five years after stopping pharmaceuticals to feel chemically different — lighter and healed — underscoring the long-term impact of pharmaceutical residue. A spinal cord stimulator implanted roughly seven years into her chronic pain journey provided ~40% pain relief via leads and an internal battery; the leads are now burning out but she has decided against replacement surgery due to prior nerve damage risk. Current cannabis regimen: ~50mg hybrid edible (CBD/CBN blend) each morning plus smoking at night for relaxation and sleep, with the ability to self-regulate dosage by cutting down without withdrawal. Stigma encountered from her generation includes perceptions of cannabis as a lazy, unmotivated, or gateway drug — compounded by prior stigma as a chronic pain patient during the opioid epidemic. Cannabis is credited with delivering mental clarity and stability, directly countering the common misconception that it causes fogginess or impaired thinking. Chronic pain described as an all-consuming mental battle; cannabis enabled Shelley to stay present and mentally strong rather than constantly focused on pain — a key quality-of-life shift. Reflecting on her journey, Shelley's core message is to open the door to cannabis sooner, while acknowledging that everything happens in its own time. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ian Jessop interviews William Angolia about his 1985 construction site accident, subsequent chronic migraines and blindness, and his recovery through cannabis use. A falling sprinkler pipe caused blunt force trauma, a detached retina, permanent blindness in the right eye, and daily debilitating migraines that left William bedridden and unable to work for three years. Prescribed pharmaceuticals, including morphine-level medications, provided insufficient relief and prevented William from holding a full-time job. In 1988, a fellow patient suggested cannabis for migraines; William researched it, found documented evidence that THC lowers eye pressure in head trauma patients, and began smoking a couple of joints daily. Within three and a half weeks of starting cannabis and stopping pharmaceuticals, William experienced his first full migraine-free day, followed by weeks, months, and then years without significant headaches. Rehabilitation also addressed the practical challenges of monocular vision — learning to turn left instead of right, choosing seating positions at events, and compensating for the right-side blind spot. William became a cannabis legalization activist, sharing his story across the Northeast and contributing to Washington D.C.'s Initiative 71 in 2010, which he helped see through to fruition. Arbitrary THC blood-level thresholds (e.g., 0.04 microns) used to define impairment are flawed — no scientific test exists to determine actual cannabis impairment, meaning regular users can be convicted of DUI without being impaired. A pre-travel abstinence period before visiting Malaysia highlighted that stopping cannabis caused migraines to return, reinforcing its ongoing therapeutic role. Doctors in Thailand confirmed they had no pharmaceutical equivalent that could match cannabis for William's pain relief, and none discouraged its continued use. Cannabis access in Thailand is becoming more restrictive despite its 6,000-year history as an herb, driven by government desire for control within the monarchy. William advocates strongly for the right to home-grow, offering free grow classes and teaching tincture, oil, and extraction methods to reduce dependence on heavily taxed dispensary products. Replenishing the endocannabinoid system with cannabinoids allows the body to heal itself naturally — William argues this is straightforward science that pharmaceuticals and poor lifestyle choices undermine. Beyond migraines, William credits cannabis and healthy living for avoiding major health issues, surviving heavy COVID-era exposure, and managing hip pain without any pharmaceutical pain medication at age 69. Gratitude centers on being alive, self-sufficient, and healthy — with strong family longevity (mother lived to 99) and a goal of another 20 years — while his father's early death at 59 from lung cancer reinforced his lifelong commitment to avoiding bodily pollutants. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Purpose of the episode: Jeff Krajnak, a combat veteran, shares how medical cannabis helped him reduce opioid dependency and how THC metabolite laws led to criminal charges despite no impairment. Military service with the Navy Seabees and SEAL teams in Iraq and Afghanistan left Jeff with severe PTSD, fibromyalgia, and ankylosing spondylitis, resulting in a medical discharge in December 2013. Post-discharge, Jeff was consuming 11 opioid and psychiatric pills daily, drinking a bottle of vodka a day, and described himself as detached, suicidal, and hospitalized in a psych ward for eight days. Switching to medical cannabis — an indica strain for sleep and a CBD cream for pain — allowed Jeff to reduce from 11 pills to just one, and eventually quit opioids entirely. A 2017 car accident occurred when another driver ran a red light; Jeff and his son were uninjured, he cooperated with police, passed three field sobriety tests, and showed no signs of impairment. Despite every officer on scene testifying he was not impaired, Jeff was arrested 32 days later by a SWAT team due to THC metabolites in his blood — 4 nanograms active, 40 nanograms metabolite — exceeding Nevada's 2-nanogram legal limit. Charges included two felony B counts — felony DUI resulting in death and felony child neglect — carrying a potential 16–20 year prison sentence. Jeff accepted an Alford plea to felony reckless driving and misdemeanor DUI; the judge acknowledged he was not impaired but stated the law left her no choice. Probation terms banned cannabis use, forcing Jeff back onto 22 pills daily — highlighting the legal contradiction that allows high-dose opioid use while prohibiting medical cannabis. Nevada's 2-nanogram THC limit dates to 1999 and is based on a 1986–87 study measuring residual THC in reckless drivers' urine — not impairment — making it scientifically unsound. THC can remain in blood for weeks in chronic users, and up to 90 days depending on testing method and consumption type, meaning the legal limit bears no relationship to actual impairment. Other states apply higher or more flexible standards — California, Washington, and Colorado allow 5 nanograms with rebuttal options, and Michigan does not prosecute medical patients — contrasting sharply with Nevada's near-zero-tolerance approach. Jeff advocates for impairment-based DUI laws rather than residual THC thresholds, arguing that trained Drug Recognition Experts can assess actual impairment without relying on metabolite levels. As president of the Coalition for Patient Rights, Jeff is pushing for federal cannabis de-scheduling — arguing Schedule 3 is insufficient — and working with NORML, MPP, and other organizations to advance legislative reform. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Connor McCrossan and his mother Tammy share their experience with Connor's brain tumour diagnosis, treatment decisions, and recovery — with a focus on cannabis as a therapeutic alternative. Connor began experiencing minor headaches and fatigue in late 2023 before travelling to Thailand in January 2024, initially managing symptoms with paracetamol without informing anyone. Symptoms worsened significantly in Chiang Mai by mid-February 2024 — severe dizziness, imbalance, violent morning sickness, and migraines — which a local Thai hospital attributed to a virus and treated with anti-dizziness medication. Connor flew home after instinct told him something was seriously wrong, enduring an 18-hour journey via Hong Kong to Manchester without disclosing the severity of his condition to Tammy. Back in the UK, Connor was repeatedly sent home by doctors despite continuous vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, and deteriorating condition over eight days. Tammy and her sister pushed persistently for an MRI scan, which hospital staff initially refused, attributing symptoms to an infectious disease in an otherwise fit 23-year-old. A partial MRI scan — completed before Connor had to press the emergency button due to projectile vomiting — revealed an abnormality, leading to a midnight transfer to neurology. Connor was told alone at 23, at midnight, that a large mass had been found on the rear of his brain; the diagnosis was later confirmed as a grade 4 medulloblastoma, a rare and aggressive tumour not seen at Preston Hospital in 14–15 years. A nine-hour surgery successfully removed the tumour, with symptoms largely vanishing within days post-operation; Connor was discharged approximately one week later. On receiving the confirmed cancer diagnosis, Connor adopted a determined mindset — responding to the neurologist's "you're not out of the woods yet" with "yes I am, because it had me against the ropes and now it's my turn." Connor declined chemotherapy due to the risk of developing leukaemia and other severe side effects, opting instead for proton beam therapy at The Christie in Manchester alongside a cannabis-based protocol. Tammy researched and introduced a cannabis suppository protocol — half a gram in the morning, half a gram at night — sourced through Corey Yelland's network, later supplemented with oral CBD and THC tinctures. Cannabis also helped Tammy manage severe anxiety developed during Connor's illness; she later identified PTSD symptoms that emerged after Connor received multiple clear scans. Connor is now fully recovered — driving, working full-time, boxing training, and completing multiple 10K runs — with little to no lasting side effects, now on six consecutive clear scans. Connor advocates strongly for cannabis as a cancer treatment, arguing patients have everything to gain and nothing to lose, and calling for its legalisation as a therapeutic option. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cannabis Health Radio podcast episode exploring how cannabis helped Miranda May process grief after losing her husband, and how she now helps others through loss. Miranda's husband Lance died in a motorcycle accident in 2009, one year into their marriage — leaving her widowed at 27 while he was 36. Grief compounded by prior trauma: parents' divorce at age 5, abandonment issues, and a second marriage that ended in divorce one year after Lance's death. Nine years of suppressed grief, guilt, and depression followed — Miranda identifies avoidance of difficult emotions as the core reason healing was delayed. Cannabis first entered Miranda's life post-loss through weekly sessions with a close friend; even low-quality cannabis calmed her nerves and improved sleep, appetite, and emotional processing. Alcohol became a long-term coping mechanism after those cannabis sessions ended, eventually consuming a bottle of wine nightly before Miranda recognized it as a problem around 2022. A pivotal moment in 2018 — smoking with her third husband Michael, a veteran cannabis user and fellow widower — prompted an inner voice urging her to "do the work," launching her healing journey. Healing required revisiting unresolved emotions from her first marriage, including replaying unsettled arguments, and ultimately rebuilding a spiritual relationship with Lance. Miranda uses cannabis intentionally and in small doses — 2.5 mg is her sweet spot — emphasizing that paranoia or anxiety from overuse is a signal to breathe through it and examine what emotions are surfacing. Cannabis creates homeostasis physically and emotionally; finding one's personal threshold is key, and Miranda contrasts this with alcohol's negative effects on the body and emotional clarity. Heart-centered healing is central to Miranda's approach — aligning heart and mind, processing unsaid words, and helping clients reconnect spiritually with deceased loved ones. Grief support must be sequenced carefully: Miranda advises working through shock and prior trauma before attempting spiritual reconnection, noting that premature techniques like the "empty chair" exercise can be harmful. Cannabis can be a valuable grief tool but is not essential — Miranda recommends it selectively and intuitively, always suggesting low doses with a trusted person present. Miranda works as a funeral celebrant via MirandaMay.net and offers grief healing and spiritual reconnection sessions primarily through word of mouth. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Purpose of the conversation: Ian Jessop continues his interview with Robin Swan of Swan Apothecary, covering product safety, scams in the cannabis market, success stories, and how cannabis supports cancer treatment. "Backyard alchemists" defined as home cannabis producers ranging from passionate plant medicine enthusiasts to dangerous unregulated sellers; once selling to hundreds online, safe handling protocols and regulatory compliance become non-negotiable. Scammers targeting desperately ill patients via Facebook and Instagram DMs are rampant in the unregulated cannabis market, often collecting thousands of dollars before disappearing. Robin Swan stresses lab testing as essential—third-party labs verify both potency and contamination levels; buyers should call the lab directly to confirm it is a real, legitimate facility. Swan Apothecary ships to the US, Canada, UK, Scotland, and Ireland; its 30,000 clients have all come through word-of-mouth and podcast appearances due to advertising restrictions on cannabis businesses. Of Swan Apothecary's 47 products, most are CBD, CBG, and CBC-focused with only trace THC; flagship product Fire Kitty—infused with frankincense, myrrh, calendula, cinnamon, rosemary, and cannabinoids—tests below 1% THC and is used for neuropathy, seizures, and arthritis. Education is Robin's primary tool against scammers; an informed consumer is far less likely to be defrauded, and she positions herself as an advocate for consumer protection in the cannabis space. A 2015 leukemia case at St. Jude's: a three-year-old's improvement on Swan Apothecary cannabis oil prompted her mother to arrange a live speakerphone call between Robin and a room of oncologists; the girl, now 14–15, is in remission and has become a backyard herbalist herself. A second pediatric case involved a two-year-old with an ocular tumor at Rady's Children's Hospital; suppositories made from cartel-sourced "El Chapo" flower (200 mg THC, 600 mg CBN per gram) caused the tumor to reduce and the eye to retract for hours at a time—the child outlived her prognosis by 18 months and visited Disneyland. A pivotal 2009 case involving a power company executive named Lisa: two grams of cannabis oil administered over 12–14 hours stopped an active brain bleed, moved her out of the ICU, and gave her 30 more days of life—this experience cemented Robin's unconditional commitment to the plant. Cannabis plays well alongside most chemotherapy (except immunotherapy), acting as a protective shield that helps target chemo more precisely and reduces damage to surrounding cells and organs, which is why patients using it report fewer side effects. Fire Kitty applied before and after chemo infusions, combined with a light soup-based diet for two to three days prior and a high-fat, high-protein meal immediately after the session, is recommended to reduce chemo-related neuropathy and sickness. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Key Points  Cannabis Health Radio podcast interview with Robin Swan of Swan Apothecary, exploring cannabis medicine's evolution, therapeutic applications, and patient guidance. Over 20 years, cannabis shifted from stigmatized to mainstream medicine — doctors who once feared calling Robin now send referrals from around the world. Key breakthroughs were driven by public advocacy, Rick Simpson's 2005 film Run From The Cure, and social media amplifying real patient stories globally. Modern cannabis strains have been hybridized to reach 35–40% THC, far above the 16–20% of the 70s — Robin flagged this as harmful, as it diminishes the whole-plant profile. Spraying chemicals on high-THC crops is contributing to chronic illness in cannabis users, a growing concern in Western cultivation practices. THC (2 molecules) targets cancer cells via apoptosis, while the C-family — CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC (60+ molecules) — reduces inflammation, repairs the myelin sheath, and supports healing. For cancer treatment, Robin's 30,000-client experience points to 500–1,500 mg of THC daily for six to nine months as the effective therapeutic range, not the commonly cited 60g over 90 days. Rick Simpson's gram-a-day protocol was based on naphtha extraction (~90% THC yield), but a gram is a weight measure — cannabinoid content varies by plant material and extraction method, so not all cannabis oil is equal. Strains matter when smoking but become irrelevant in concentrates — multi-strain compounding creates a richer cannabinoid bouquet, and dispensary sativa/indica labels are driven by terpene profiles, not plant genetics. Suppository dosing allows patients to absorb high THC doses without psychoactive effects — it absorbs into the colon wall within 3 minutes but takes up to 6 hours to reach the bloodstream. Robin recommends combining a nightly suppository with an oral dose using a 4:1 THC-to-CBD ratio, while daytime low-THC oral formulas allow patients to function normally. Cannabis and immunotherapy cancel each other out — science shows they are contraindicated, with neither working effectively when used together. On diet, Robin has not seen a single client survive who pursued aggressive restriction protocols (fasting, juicing, 20+ supplements, enemas) — nurturing the body and eating whole, simple foods with fewer than 5 ingredients is the preferred approach. Family dynamics significantly impact outcomes — one patient stopped cannabis oil due to family pressure and died, while in other cases families push cannabis on unwilling patients; respecting patient autonomy is essential. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.