The AusCannaPodcast

Season Four of the AusCannaPodcast kicks off “On the Road” in New Zealand. Earlier this year, I spent a week driving the rugged South Island coast, where the mountains meet the sea and the stories are deeply tied to the land. The first stop: a visit with brothers Sank and Winston Macfarlane of Puro.Sank, an agribusiness leader with deep roots in finance and farming, and Winston, a former America’s Cup sailor turned operations lead, are now steering one of New Zealand’s most ambitious cannabis projects. From the steep learning curve of year one to refining their approach by year two, they share the realities of building Puro from the ground up, navigating export regulations, and why strong community ties matter just as much as cultivation.And here’s the takeaway: this isn’t just a story about a farm. It’s about rethinking what cannabis can be by moving past THC and toward a future that connects land, people, and purpose.This episode is part one of a two-part On the Road series recorded during my New Zealand adventure. Next up: Alexis Lopez on the fine art of hash making.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to AusCannaReviews@gmail.com. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:42)* Who are Sank and Winston? (9:15)* Puro was born (11:50) * The first year… A massive learning curve (14:52)* Year two… Doubling down and dialling it in (18:34)* New Zealand export regulations (20:26)* The importance of community ties (22:38)* Sank and Tim Aldridge (Puro Executive Chair) go door-knocking (25:53)* Open days at the Puro farm (28:02)* The live-dried process 101 (28:51)* 75,000 plants in the ground, outdoors under the sun (31:19)* Proving the concept, now we’re upgrading (33:37)* Letting go of preconceived notions (37:28)* Where is Puro going in the next few years? (39:07)* Exporting always keeps you on your toes (41:16)* Would life be easier if…? (42:35)* Sank’s long-term goal (47:09)* Winston’s frustration with trying to educate (48:04)* Seeing things in a different light (48:34)* There’s a lot more magic to be had (50:21)* Shifting the narrative away from THC (52:16)* Sank and Winston’s parting words of wisdom (55:07)* New Zealand turning on the charm (57:17)Show Notes:* My New Zealand Adventure BTS* Magi Mix* Bananas on Boats* Winston the Sailor * The Store * Winterhome Garden* Medicinal Cannabis Scheme, allowing New Zealand companies to export* Puro’s Government GrantWhere to Find Sank and Winston:* Puro WebsiteWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

After 16 years in the Australian Army, Jason Frost came home with invisible wounds… PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and the crushing weight of polypharmacy. When traditional treatment failed him, cannabis medicine gave him a way back.In this raw and powerful episode, Jason opens up about the hardest parts of that journey and how it led to his work with the Pro Patria Centre, a veteran-led hub of healing, advocacy, and community care based in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales.We talk about what recovery really looks like, why the current system still leaves so many veterans behind, and what needs to change in the way we treat trauma, addiction, and pain.Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, a prescriber, or someone who believes in holistic, evidence-informed care, this one’s for you.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to AusCannaReviews@gmail.com. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:39)* Special Shout Out to… GRizzle! (9:50)* Who is Jason Frost? (10:05 )* When the system sees you as a person, versus a number (17:46)* Lightbulb moments (22:04)* Not real support, just a note slid across the table (24:22)* Navigating the stigma (25:57)* Who are we advocating to—policymakers, veterans, the general public? (28:43)* Embracing the plant (29:53)* A place for Big Pharma (34:08)* Pro Patria Centre is born (40:31)* Helping veterans beyond traditional services (43:32)* Veteran-led but community-grounded (47:55)* Where is Jason on his journey? (50:00)* What’s next, because we’re not there yet (52:14)* How to get in touch and support the Pro Patria Centre (53:47)* Pro Patria, a name that was meant to be (55:19)Show Notes:* How to Change Your Mind - Michael Pollan* Weeded Warrior* Carmelite Monastery* Transcranial magnetic stimulationWhere to Find Jason Frost:* Pro Patria Centre* Jason on LinkedInWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast🚨 Vape users in Melbourne! 🚨📢 TrueLeaf and Satinca are teaming up for an exclusive Vape Device Cleaning & Maintenance Day on Saturday, 23rd August. Bring your device in for a free professional clean, grab a Satinca goodie bag, and enter to win some awesome prizes! 🎉📍 314–316 Chapel St, Prahran⏰ 10:30am – 1:30pm🛠️ Spots are limited — book now to secure yours! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What happens behind the doors of a compounding pharmacy, and why does it matter in the world of cannabis and psychedelic medicine?In this episode, I sit down with compounding pharmacist Matthew Soliman from Cann Compounding to explore how tailored formulations are helping patients get better outcomes. From THC-infused chocolates and fast-acting gummies to high-dose oils for seizure control, Matthew walks us through the creative and clinical side of making medicines that don’t come off the shelf.We talk real-world case studies, the growing role of minor cannabinoids, and why pessaries might be one of the most underrated delivery formats in medical cannabis. Matthew also opens up about sourcing challenges, Australia’s regulatory twists, and where compounding could take us next.Plus: pineapple on pizza, zombie apocalypse roles, and what you’d pack for a mystery trip because what’s a podcast without a little fun?Whether you’re a prescriber, a patient, or just curious about the science behind the script, this one’s worth a listen.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to AusCannaReviews@gmail.com. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:07)* Who is Matthew Soliman? (8:33)* What’s Matthew’s day-to-day life like? (10:37)* What’s the difference between a community pharmacy and a compounding pharmacy? (12:13)* What cannabis formats does Matthew work with most (capsules, oils, creams, etc)? (13:54)* Underused formats that Matthew would like to see more of? (14:45)* What’s the craziest compounding request Matthew has ever received? (16:35)* When custom formulations make a big difference in a patient’s outcome (18:57)* Are prescribers aware of what’s possible through compounding? (20:54)* What does Matthew’s typical workflow with a doctor look like? (21:34)* Who’s decarbing the flower? (24:33)* Validating consistency between batches (26:55)* The most popular compounding product and why it could be beneficial (28:19)* Are there certain specialties that use compounding more often? (29:20)* The struggles of sourcing products (31:54)* More minor cannabinoids, please (34:26)* Where’s the demand…full-spectrum or precision-based formulations? (39:34)* Different rules for different states (40:18)* Where is cannabis compounding going in the next few years? (41:46)* Is personalisation based on genetics or biomarkers part of the future? (42:55)* Full circle moment… the best bookend ever! (44:40)* Matthew’s Call to Action (46:31)Show Notes:* Acacia TreeWhere to Find Matthew Soliman:* @CannCompoundingPharmacy on Instagram* Matthew on LinkedIn* Cann Compounding WebsiteWhere to Find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

After a spider bite triggered a cascade of chronic conditions, Sharna Stewart spent eight years bedridden. She endured years of ketamine infusions, brain surgery, and opioid medications that only made things worse. But everything changed when she discovered medicinal cannabis.In this powerful and unfiltered conversation, Sharna shares what it’s really like to live with Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Endometriosis, and Gastroparesis. She talks about the relief cannabis gave her when nothing else did, the stigma she had to overcome, and why she now advocates for others living with chronic pain and invisible illness.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt unheard, misdiagnosed, or out of options. Sharna’s story is raw, real, and a reminder that healing doesn’t always come from a pill.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to AusCannaReviews@gmail.com. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:17)* Who is Sharna? (9:13)* Early conversations Sharna had with her healthcare team (13:45)* The toll everything was taking on Sharna’s body (16:48)* When the pain specialist laughs, but the hospital GP is all for it (18:40)* 12 years of battles, 8 years bedridden, 4 years with medical cannabis (20:15)* A little bit of flower in a friend’s Mighty (21:20)* What was that like for someone who’s in chronic pain for the first time? (26:33)* Getting real about the chronic pain scale (33:48)* Terpene love! (37:35)* Write 7 things down; it may help you improve your therapeutic outcomes (39:49)* Sharna’s advocacy work, what started it? (44:18)* What happens when Sharna goes into the hospital and gets denied access to her medicinal cannabis? (52:05)* Fighting the blanket ban on vapes (54:57)* Where to find Sharna (66:37)* The call to action (68:11)Show Notes:* Blink 182 - Dammit* Dua Lipa - IDGAF* OnTracka App* Kyla de Clifford @CannaCuriousAus on Instagram* Rachel Payne Medicinal Cannabis accessibility in Victorian hospitalsWhere to Find Sharna:* @Fibroadvocate1 on Instagram* http://www.fibroadvocate1.netWhere to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What do you get when you combine over a decade in pharma, a chef’s eye for detail, and a patient-first mindset? You get Satinca, Australia’s first pharmacy-exclusive medical cannabis accessories provider and the brainchild of Claud Chaouka.In this episode, I sit down with Claud to unpack the story behind Satinca from the spark that motivated them to build the brand, to the challenges of staying compliant while innovating, to the surprising ways a clean grinder can improve your medication experience.We talk pharmacy, patient safety, device hygiene, and why educating both pharmacists and patients is at the heart of Satinca’s mission. Whether you're a patient, prescriber, pharmacist, or just curious about the ecosystem supporting medical cannabis in Australia, this episode is packed with insight.🧼 We even declare a future Satinca Device Cleaning Day... so stay tuned for that!👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to AusCannaReviews@gmail.com 💚 If you enjoyed this conversation, please consider leaving a 5-star review or sharing the episode with a friend navigating the medical cannabis space. And if you’d like to support the podcast, you can buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/auscannapodcastMentioned in this episode:* Rapid Fire (2:07)* Who is Claud Chaouka? (15:00)* From chef life to the pharmacy world (16:42)* What motivated Claud to start Satinca? (18:07)* First products developed under Satinca (21:58)* Stop putting your fingers in your grinder! (24:58)* Quick tips to clean your grinder (26:27)* Satinca Device Cleaning Day… more to come! (27:09)* Bridging the education gap (29:10)* The decision behind going pharmacy-exclusive (30:18)* Helping pharmacists feel more comfortable educating patients (31:54)* Sharing our story has a local impact (34:00)* Staying compliant while still being innovative (37:54)* How to keep going on tough days (41:00)* Satinca in 5 years… (43:57)* The future of cannabis in pharmacies in Australia (45:28)* Satinca legacy (46:29)* Claud’s call to action (48:07)Show Notes:* Chat Thai Restaurant * We’re All Insane Podcast* The Reacher Grabber* Give & Toke Travel BagWhere to Find Claud:* Email ClaudChaouka@satinca.com.au* Claud on LinkedIn* Satinca Website* @SatincaAustralia on InstagramWhere to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Derek Pyrah is the founder of the No More Zombie Veterans campaign—a powerful movement born from lived experience.A former Australian Defence Force member and PTSD survivor, Derek knows firsthand the damage long-term pharmaceutical overmedication can cause. After discovering the healing potential of plant-based medicines, including medicinal cannabis, he now channels his energy into advocacy, pushing for meaningful reform within the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).In this episode, Derek shares his personal story, unpacks the systemic issues facing veterans with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, and explains why access to plant-based medicine isn’t just a health issue… It’s a human rights one.This is a raw, honest, and deeply important conversation about trauma, resilience, and the urgent need for change.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to AusCannaReviews@gmail.com. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:53)* Who is Derek Pyrah? (11:18)* Battling PTSD and transitioning out of the service (14:47)* The day-to-day reality of being overmedicated and what it did to Derek’s sense of identity (17:09)* When other people in Derek’s life noticed a change (20:23)* First attempt at applying for medicinal cannabis via the DVA (22:23)* Busted in the bush and facing 10 years (23:38)* Starting the dialogue with the No More Zombie Veterans campaign (25:35)* Pushing back because the science is there (26:48)* The more you know about the Endocannabinoid System (27:54)* Some of the misconceptions around medicinal cannabis that Derek finds most frustrating (29:05)* Cannabis as a frontline medication (33:14)* Where does the mind shift around cannabis need to come from? (34:50)* How to get involved in the No More Zombie Veterans campaign (36:23)* The fine art of balancing hope while still stuck in the system (38:29)* Small wins that make the difference (39:29)* Leaving a legacy (40:56)* Reflections of then vs now (43:01)* Fight for change and something good (44:43)* Derek’s call to action (46:00)Show Notes:* Doing a Bradbury* Califorina Gazpacho recipeWhere to Find Derek Pyrah:* Instagram @nomorezombieveterans* LinkedIn * Twitter/X @nomorezombievet* TikTok @nomorezombieveter3* Facebook: https://facebook.com/nomorezombieveterans* Website: https://www.nomorezombieveterans.com* Sign the petition: Approve medicinal cannabis for Australian veterans* Buy Me A Coffee/No More Zombie VeteransWhere to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What happens when you walk straight out of the grow room and hit record?In this special On the Road episode, I visited Medcan Australia in Southeast Queensland for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the country’s earliest licensed cannabis producers. After the tour, I sat down with co-founder and CCO Gareth Ball for a raw, in-the-moment chat about cultivation, product development, market pressure, and why Australia needs to back its own industry.From pheno-hunting wins (and fails) to research gaps, global comparisons, and the launch of Medcan’s new cultivar, Velvet Thunder. Whether you’re a patient, producer, or just passionate about homegrown cannabis, this episode is packed with deep insights, bold ideas, and that signature AusCanna curiosity.📍Recorded on-site in Southeast Queensland.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email them to AusCannaReviews@gmail.com. I love including questions from the community!💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:42)* Who is Gareth Ball? (10:49)* The story behind Medcan Australia (12:02)* From pheno-hunting to products in patients’ hands… What’s the process? (18:15)* Do pheno hunts ever fail? (28:28)* There’s more to cannabis than THC, will the education ever catch up? (30:16)* The importance of gathering research (33:02)* Canadian market vs Australian market (38:05)* Buying weed from questionable sources (39:57)* The price of cannabis around the world (43:20)* Where is the global cannabis market going? (45:33)* Supporting Australian-grown cannabis first (46:27)* What’s next for Medcan? (50:16)* Exciting times ahead for the local industry (53:50)* Stigma, politics and legalisation (55:17)* Life is better with a little bit of cannabis (58:37)* Our reflections on swapping out pharmaceutical pills for cannabis (59:08)* Cannabis a first option, not a last option (62:23)* Gareth’s call to action (64:19)Show Notes:Where to Find Gareth Ball:* Gareth on LinkedIn* Medcan Australia LinkedIn* Medcan Australia Website* Email Gareth@medcanaustralia.com.auWhere to find Christina Mc Mullan:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

Is CBD the missing link in IBS treatment?In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Chris Schneider and Rick Palesh — the minds behind SVG and the Genesis Study, a first-of-its-kind clinical trial investigating CBD’s potential to relieve pain caused by Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The study is currently under review and expected to be published in the coming months and the results could be a game-changer.We dig into the science, the unexpected findings (including a wild placebo effect), and what it really takes to push cannabis research forward in a clinical setting. From dosing dilemmas to regulatory hurdles, this is a rare behind-the-scenes look at the future of cannabinoid medicine and gut health.🎧 Whether you’re a patient looking for answers, a practitioner hungry for data, or just curious about the next frontier of cannabis research — this one’s for you.👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email me at AusCannaReviews@gmail.com — I love including questions from the community.💚 Like what I’m doing? You can support the podcast at buymeacoffee.com/auscannapodcast — every bit helps keep these conversations going!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (2:23)* Who are Dr. Chris Schneider and Rick Palesh? (19:13)* What is the Genesis study? (22:12)* Placebo Effect… It’s crazy strong! (23:56)* How did the Genesis study approach dosing? (30:10)* What were some of the biggest hurdles the Genesis study faced? (31:09)* Were there any regulatory roadblocks in conducting the clinical trial? (33:08)* Cannabinoid research is still evolving, was it difficult to get approval or funding? (34:19)* The challenges of translating research findings into real-world treatment options (35:21)* Will these results open the door to further research on CBD and gut health? (36:23)* Specific aspects of CBD’s effects on IBS that Dr. Schneider and Rick would like to investigate next (38:18)* Potential plans to expand research into other cannabinoids, such as CBG or CBN (40:14)* In an ideal world with unlimited resources, what would the next phase of SVG’s research look like? (42:33)* Advice for patients trying to navigate CBD on their own (45:17)* The edibles tangent (49:33)* The most underrated cannabinoid in terms of therapeutic potential (57:45)* The importance of paitent reported data (59:36)* Dr. Schneider and Rick’s call to action (61:39)Show Notes:Where to Find Dr. Chris Schneider and Rick Palesh:* SVG Website* Email info@svgpharma.com.auWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

This week, I’m joined by Churchill Fellow Tom Forrest, a sustainable grower, educator, and long-time cannabis advocate, for a wide-ranging chat about the future of cannabis cultivation in Australia.Tom isn’t just growing cannabis… He’s growing a movement! In this episode, we explore what pulled him toward plant medicine and why true sustainability in cannabis is about action, not optics.We get into everything from terroir and transparency to Reddit rabbit holes and sketchy spray packs. There’s talk of potency, perception, and yes, a few cheeky munchie stories too!Tom also shares his thoughts on the Cannatrek and Heyday merger, what it could signal for the Australian scene, and why a bit of industry stability might be exactly what we need to spark real innovation.If you're a grower, patient, or just curious about where your cannabis comes from…This one's for you!👉 Got a Rapid Fire question you want me to ask a guest? Email me at AusCannaReviews@gmail.com — I love including questions from the community.💚 Want to support the podcast? Tap the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (1:46)* Who is Tom Forrest? (14:01)* What started Tom’s journey towards cannabis advocacy? (16:38)* Sneaky munchie moments (19:26)* The journey from cotton to cannabis (25:34)* What are some of the biggest misconceptions about the environmental impact of cannabis cultivation? (27:54)* Smoke and mirrors? We need to be able to tell OUR story (31:24)* Are there any significant differences in the potency or effects of cannabis grown with sustainable methods versus traditional methods? (37:03)* Terroir… It’s important! (37:50)* Excitement within cannabis breeding, we’re levelling up! (43:20)* Spray packs and other things that aren’t natural… We just don’t know (44:48)* More accountability… More carrots, fewer sticks (47:15)* Oh, Reddit, you’re wild (49:28)* Grow Zone Magazine (54:02)* Tom’s thoughts on the Cannatrek and Heyday merger, and what does that mean for Puro (59:02)* Stability breeds creativity (63:20)* Tom’s call to action (65:01)* Wise words from Thumper’s father (66:12)Where to find Tom Forrest:* @tomforrestcf on Instagram* Tom’s LinkedIn* Email Tom@puro.co.nz* Puro New Zealand Website* Grow Zone MagazineWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastShownotes:* Bialetti Moka Pot* Tom Forrest - Cannabis Cultivation - Findings of a Churchill Fellowship - Q&A (Entheogenesis Australis)* Steve Cantwell* Thumper’s Father’s wise words (Bambi) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

What does it look like when a doctor helps rewrite a country’s cannabis laws? Dr. JC Scicluna- Medical & Global Business Development Consultant isn’t just treating patients — he’s shaping the future of cannabis in Europe. From Malta’s bold move into adult-use legalisation to the power of real-world data and global research gaps, this conversation dives deep into what happens when medicine, policy, and passion collide. No fluff, no half measures — just a raw, honest look at where cannabis is headed and why community still matters most.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (1:41)* Who is Dr. Scicluna? (7:28)* How did Dr. Scicluna and I meet? (10:37)* Malta’s cannabis legislation and Dr. Scicluna’s contribution (11:29)* Malta… Trailblazers in the EU on tight timelines (19:50)* How did Dr. Scicluna’s patients find him? (23:30)* Battling stigmas (26:17)* How does Europe compare to Australia in cannabis research? (27:50)* If Dr. Scicluna could run his own cannabis study, what would he focus on? (33:59)* Are there any specific cannabinoids, terpenes or flavonoids that deserve more attention? (37:51)* Real-world data… It’s important! (39:52)* Will pharmaceutical companies play a role in the cannabis market 10 years from now? (41:35)* Keep your eyes on the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) (43:07)* Could Malta’s approach be replicated here in Australia? (53:32)* The power (and safety) of consuming together (54:46)* The cannabis community LOVES to give back (57:14)* No half measures! (61:04)* Dr. Scicluna’s upcoming projects and events he’s excited to attend (64:05)* Dr. Scicluna key message… Never underestimate the work you're doing! (67:00)Where to find Dr. JC Scicluna:* Email jeanclaudescicluna@gmail.com * Dr. JC Scicluna on LinkedIn* Dr. JC Scicluna’s WebsiteWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcastShownotes:* Pastizz (Malta Street Food)* European Citizens' Initiative* International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

For years, the cannabis industry has been stuck in a potency arms race, chasing ever-higher THC percentages as if that’s the only measure of quality. But what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? What if moderate THC cultivars could actually provide a better, more sustainable experience for patients—without the downsides of ultra-potent cannabis?In this episode, I sit down with Camilo Cortissoz and Juan Angel from Green Shepherd, a company shaking up the industry by proving that balance matters more than brute strength. We unpack the science, patient experiences, and industry trends that show why chronic potency chasing might not be the future of cannabis after all.This episode will challenge what you think you know about cannabis and just might change the way you medicate.🎧 Hit play and join the conversation!👉 Have a rapid-fire question that’ll make my next guest stop and think? Submit yours now!💚 Want to support the podcast? The #AusCannaStorage CanGos are now available! Email me at AusCannaReviews@gmail.com to grab yours!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics, including:* Rapid Fire (1:51)* The Story behind Green Shepherd (26:40)* Camilo shares his first experience with cannabis in Colombia vs Australia (27:59)* Juan shares a little about his childhood (30:45)* How did Juan and Camilo meet? (32:39)* Did they have the same dealer? (33:12)* Putting their skill set to better use (34:28)* Columbia’s rich cannabis history (37:48)* The difficulty finding quality plants with lower THC (42:59)* Is the industry as a whole too focused on high THC? (45:01)* What misconceptions do people have about moderate THC cultivars? (46:41)* How do we educate consumers and doctors about the value of balance rather than just strength? (49:42)* The importance of having options (53:03)* Why can’t we embrace the middy?? (57:53)* High THC over long periods- could it have negative effects that we don’t know about yet? (60:52)* The bucket analogy (62:50)* Is there a THC sweet spot? (67:17)* Where will Green Shepherd be in 5 years? (71:30)* Camilo’s parting words of wisdom (77:40)* Juan’s wise words about respect (78:43)Shownotes:* Sublime - Santeria* AC/DC - If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It)* LL Cool J - Mama Said Knock You Out* Analysis of Cannabis Seizures in NSW, Australia: Cannabis Potency and Cannabinoid ProfileWhere to find Green Shepherd:* Email contact@greenshepherd.com* Green Shepherd website* Juan Angel on LinkedIn* Camilo Cortissoz on LinkedInWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Sacha La Forgia, Co-Founder of Golden Days Cultivators, to explore his unique journey from winemaking and distilling to producing top-tier medicinal cannabis. With a background as a qualified grape grower and multiple international awards, Sacha brings an artisan’s touch to cultivation—focusing on quality, craft, and precision.His experience in fine wine and spirits has shaped the way he approaches cannabis, and in a rapidly evolving industry, his perspective offers something truly different. Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur, a patient looking to understand more about quality cultivation, or someone who loves hearing stories of passion and innovation, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire (1:27)* Who is Sacha? (15:19)* What’s been the biggest lesson from the wine industry that Sacha has applied to cannabis? (23:20)* If cannabis were treated like fine wine, would that change the way it’s sold and understood? (25:57)* What was the spark that started Golden Days Cultivators? (27:46)* The importance of taking your time and working through it (29:03)* Specific cultivation techniques Golden Days Cultivators swears by… Controlling your environment (31:04)* What defines “top-shelf” cannabis in Sacha’s opinion (33:24)* You don’t know until you try. It doesn’t matter if it’s dating or cannabis (36:05)* What role does sustainability play in Golden Days Cultivators’ growing methods? (38:47)* Water, is anything special going on there? (41:45)* Does Australian-grown cannabis have the potential to compete internationally? (45:33)* How will small craft cultivators play a role in shaping the future of the industry? (46:25)* Will we ever see cannabis with the same level of “connoisseurship” as fine wine? (49:42)* If Sacha could change one policy to improve consumer education, what would it be? (52:21)* What’s on the horizon for Golden Days Cultivators? (54:40)* Sacha’s call to action (57:32)Shownotes:* Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin’Where to Sacha:* Email sacha@goldendayscultivators.com.au* @Sacha.LaFogia on Instagram* Sacha on LinkedIn* Golden Days Cultivators on LinkedInWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

In this episode, I sit down with Dane Herbst—better known as Boof—the mastermind behind CannaBudGrow’s premium medicinal cannabis. As Head of Cultivation, Dane isn’t just growing plants; he’s shaping an industry, setting new quality standards, and ensuring patients get the best medicine possible. We talk about cultivation challenges, global cannabis markets, and what it takes to thrive in an evolving space. Plus, as always I put Dane in the hot seat with some wild rapid-fire questions!In this episode, we cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire (1:30)* Who is Dane Herbst (6:35)* Where did Dane’s cannabis journey start(7:43)* Challenges of growing cannabis in South Africa for a pharmaceutical market (9:08)* The fine art of consistency (12:07)* Why a hydro setup vs soil setup (13:40)* Was it more difficult to first set up in South Africa or enter the Australian market? (15:17)* Differences between what patients want in South Africa vs Australia (17:15)* Eco-friendly farming practices (20:36)* Surprising challenges along the way (23:59)* Cannabis conversations out in the wild and with family (25:55)* Boundry pushing ideas (31:26)* Green (Legacy) genetics (33:33)* Rethinking how to start “fresh” (37:00)* CannaBudGrow’s plans for 2025 (39:53)* Dane’s call to action (41:48)Where to Dane:* Email dane@cannabudgrow.com* @boof_enshmirtz on InstagramWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

I’m back for Season 3! Kicking things off with a bang, I’m sitting down with Brian Bain—an industry heavyweight with over 20 years in cannabis and 12 years in innovative agriculture. As CEO and Founder of Mother Labs, Brian has been at the forefront of genetic development, shaping some of the most exciting cultivars on the market today.In this episode, we dive into the art and science of breeding top-tier genetics, the journey that led him here, and because you know I don’t do surface-level chats I put Brian on the spot by asking him about the discontinuation of one of my favourite cultivars, Miss Kim!If you’re passionate about cannabis, innovation, or just love a damn good origin story, this is one you don’t want to miss.We cover a lot of topics including:* Rapid Fire (1:54)* Who is Brian Bain (11:36)* The need for seeds and how it’s blossomed (13:23)* What does Brian look for when starting a pheno hunt (17:01)* Flawless Victory… 5 years and 45 seeds (18:18)* What is a Tissue Culture? (19:04)* Is there a difference between what the medical market wants vs what the adult-use market? (21:33)* Terpinolene and Ocimene are the perfect combination… for us (22:37)* The need to diversify (23:14)* If we could talk to doctors about improving the quality of life without the stigma (26:57)* Lessons Australia can learn from the early days of Canada’s medical market (30:23)* We owe a lot to BC bud (31:24)* A cannabis rotation is like a top 100 playlist (39:24)* Renaming of cultivars and the need to be truthful (42:21)* Respect for the underground/closet growers (46:31)* The importance of love and playing the long game (48:28)* What is Mother Labs working on in 2025? (49:32)* Shameless… #SavingMissKim (50:26)* Brian’s parting nugget of information (55:14)Show Notes:* Mother Labs WebsiteWhere to find Brian:* Email Brian@motherlabs.ca* Brian on LinkedIn* @Motherlabs on InstagramWhere to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com

2024 was a year of growth, connection, and unforgettable moments for the AusCannaPodcast! From rapid-fire questions that sparked laughter and deep insights to the immersive “On The Road” series that brought you closer to the cannabis community, this episode looks back at the highlights from my first two seasons. From listener favourites to a recap of the most downloaded episodes, join me as I reflect on an incredible year and set the stage for what’s to come in 2025.In this episode:* Mitch’s deep dive* Adam’s thoughts on transparency* Liz’s thoughts on CoA’s* The most downloaded episode* Looking forward to 2025Where to find me:* @AusCannaReviews on SubStack* @AusCannaReviews on Instagram* @AusCannaReviews on Twitter/X* Email AusCannaReviews@gmail.com* Buy Me A Coffee/AusCannaPodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit auscannareviews.substack.com