Episodios

  • Devin Melnyk: From Grower to Cannabis Tech Start Up

    Devin Melnyk: From Grower to Cannabis Tech Start Up
    Aug 8 2025
    Devin Melnyk shares his journey from the gray market of cannabis cultivation to working with one of the largest licensed producers in Canada. He discusses the evolution of the cannabis industry, the differences between the Canadian and U.S. markets, and the importance of community in cannabis culture. Devin also tells us about the new HiNote app, designed to help users track their cannabis experiences and connect with others in the community. Find out more about HiNote: https://www.hinote.ai/ https://www.instagram.com/hinote.ai/ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 m
  • Cannabis is Personalized Medicine with Lauren Avenius at Mary Jane Berlin

    Cannabis is Personalized Medicine with Lauren Avenius at Mary Jane Berlin
    Jul 25 2025
    This week we are headed to Germany, this podcast was recorded at the world's largest cannabis expo called Mary Jane Berlin. I had the opportunity to jointly host and record a podcast with Lauren Avenius, the CEO of Node Labs. She is doing some ground breaking work with cannabis breeding and genetics and is doing an amazing job connecting people across the industry. Her work also encompasses other companies like Four20Pharma and Compound Genetics. This conversation covers everything from strain specific effects, understanding dosing and consumption methods, and how our own genetics and the plant genetics may influence our experience. Thank you to our sponsor for this episode GAVITA: For over 40 years, Gavita has been the trusted name in horticultural lighting, setting the benchmark for performance, reliability, and innovation. ⁠https://gavita.com/category/led-grow-lights/⁠ IG: @gavitanorthamerica Enter the MaryJane x Node Labs Giveaway https://forms.gle/nex2aBdDB4JT7g6D6 Follow lauren on Instagram and LinkedIn: @Lavenius https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenavenius/ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    47 m
  • How Animals Medicate with Dr. Jaap De Roode

    How Animals Medicate with Dr. Jaap De Roode
    Jul 11 2025
    In this conversation, host Dr. Riley Kirk and guest Dr. Jaap De Roode discuss the fascinating field of zoo pharmacognosy, exploring how animals medicate themselves using natural substances. He shares insights from his research on monarch butterflies and honeybees, highlighting the role of toxic compounds and fungi in animal health. The discussion also touches on the implications for agriculture, the importance of biodiversity, and the potential for learning from animal behaviors in medicine. Dr. De Roode emphasizes the need for more research in this area and the significance of maintaining natural ecosystems for the health of both animals and humans. Key Takeaways Zoo pharmacognosy is the study of how animals medicate themselves. Monarch butterflies use toxic milkweed compounds to combat parasites. Honeybees may use fungi to treat infections in their colonies. Animal medication can be a learned behavior or instinctual response. Diversity in diet is crucial for animal health and resilience. Propolis serves as both a cement and a medicinal substance for bees. Observational studies provide insights into animal medication behaviors. Animals can change their behavior based on their health needs. Research on animal medication can inform agricultural practices. Understanding animal medication can lead to new discoveries in human medicine. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Zoo Pharmacognosy 04:08 Research Focus: Monarch Butterflies and Honeybees 10:58 Defining Animal Medication vs. Self-Medication 14:59 Examples of Animal Medication in Nature 18:20 Chimpanzees and Traditional Healing 24:38 Learning and Sharing Medicinal Knowledge in Animals 26:14 The Fascinating World of Animal Self-Medication 28:53 Agricultural Practices and Animal Health 32:38 The Importance of Choice and Diversity in Animal Diets 33:37 Studying Animal Behavior and Medicating Practices 35:56 Recreational Use of Plants by Animals 40:56 Addressing Animal Anxiety and Depression 43:52 Natural Products in Animal Medicating 46:21 Evolution of Medicating Behaviors in Animals 48:21 Cannabis and Animal Self-Medication 51:31 Researching Fungi and Bees 55:20 Insights from 'Doctors by Nature' Thank you to our sponsor for this episode GAVITA: For over 40 years, Gavita has been the trusted name in horticultural lighting, setting the benchmark for performance, reliability, and innovation. https://gavita.com/category/led-grow-lights/ IG: @gavitanorthamerica Follow Dr. De Roode’s research: https://biology.emory.edu/people/bios/faculty/de-roode-jaap.html Follow Dr. De Roode on IG and LinkedIn IG @jaapderoode LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaap-de-roode-04a6a6237/ Read or listen to Doctors by Nature https://www.amazon.com/Doctors-Nature-Other-Animals-Themselves/dp/069123924X Check out my book Reefer Wellness! ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    59 m
  • #NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe Shields: Exploring Cannabis Science and Community

    #NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe Shields: Exploring Cannabis Science and Community
    Jun 27 2025
    Join us for a deep dive into the world of cannabis science with Dr. Miyabe Shields and host Dr. Riley Kirk cofounders of the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy. NAP is a nonprofit focused on studying the real world uses of cannabis and other natural products as well as the biochemical mechanisms. In this episode, we discuss the latest updates on biochemistry projects, the importance of enzymes in the endocannabinoid system, and the exciting findings from the Science of Smokability study. Discover how community insights are shaping research and the future of cannabis as a medicine. The role of enzymes in the endocannabinoid system. Understanding cannabis puff profiles, The impact of water activity on cannabis quality, Community-driven research and advocacy Upcoming projects and collaborations #CannabisScience #EndocannabinoidSystem #NAPTIMEPodcast #CannabisResearch #CommunityAdvocacy Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to NAPTIME Bioactive Podcast 2:00 - Overview of the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy 5:15 - Discussion on Biochemistry and Endocannabinoid System 12:30 - Importance of Enzymes in Cannabis Interaction 13:00 - Science of Smokability: Water Activity and Quality 20:45 - Community Insights and Research Advocacy 30:00 - Discussion on Cannabis Strain-Specific Effects 35:20 - Chemical Diversity Theory and Its Implications 40:00 - Personal Experiences and Anecdotes 45:30 - Upcoming Projects and Collaborations 50:00 - Challenges in Cannabis Research and Advocacy 55:15 - Conclusion and Call to Action 58:00 - Closing Remarks and Thank You Sign Up For NAP’s Email List/Newsletter or Donate: www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Read the Science of Smokeability Paper https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/view/impact-of-water-activity-on-the-chemical-composition-and-smoking-quality-of-cannabis-flower-the-science-of-smokability-phase-i-results Order my book Reefer Wellness! ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 41 m
  • Cannabis, Pregnancy, Fertility and Breastfeeding: A neuropharmacologist’s perspective with Dr. Michele Ross

    Cannabis, Pregnancy, Fertility and Breastfeeding: A neuropharmacologist’s perspective with Dr. Michele Ross
    Jun 13 2025
    In this conversation, Dr. Michele Ross discusses the complexities of cannabis use during pregnancy, sharing her personal experiences and insights as a neuropharmacologist and fibromyalgia patient. The discussion highlights the lack of comprehensive research on the effects of cannabis, the comparative safety of cannabis versus traditional medications, and the stigma surrounding its use. Dr. Ross emphasizes the importance of advocacy, education, and support systems, including the role of doulas, in navigating the challenges faced by pregnant women considering cannabis as a treatment option. In this conversation, Dr. Michele Ross discusses the complexities of cannabis use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and its effects on fertility and mental health. She emphasizes the importance of conscious use, tracking consumption, and the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis. The discussion also touches on tapering off cannabis and pharmaceuticals, exploring other medicinal plants, and the need for community support among mothers. Dr. Ross highlights the lack of solid research on long-term effects of cannabis exposure and encourages individuals to seek personalized care from qualified professionals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context Setting 05:01 The Role of Cannabis in Women's Health 10:13 Understanding Risks and Benefits of Cannabis During Pregnancy 14:59 Comparative Analysis: Cannabis vs. Traditional Medications 19:47 The Importance of Research and Anecdotal Evidence 25:03 Addressing Stigma and Misconceptions 30:11 The Future of Cannabis Research in Pregnancy 31:23 Legal Complexities of Cannabis Use During Pregnancy 36:36 Navigating Stigma and Support in Cannabis Use 41:40 The Role of Doulas and Healthcare Professionals 46:01 Tapering Cannabis Use and Consumption Methods 56:00 Understanding Cannabis and Fertility 01:02:04 Breastfeeding and Cannabis: Safety and Concerns 01:05:26 The Role of Cannabinoids in Breast Milk Production 01:08:40 Exploring Other Natural Remedies for Mothers 01:10:40 The Future of Botanical Medicine in Motherhood 01:13:12 Mental Health, SSRIs, and Cannabis Interactions 01:18:31 Long-term Effects of Cannabis Exposure on Children 01:21:38 Resources for Expecting and New Mothers Follow Dr.Ross; Instagram and LinkedIn @MicheleRoss Check out Dr. Ross’s amazing books & learn more! https://drmicheleross.com/books/ Order my book Reefer Wellness! ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 25 m
  • What Happens When A Stoner Scientist Gets Pregnant... My Journey So Far

    What Happens When A Stoner Scientist Gets Pregnant... My Journey So Far
    May 30 2025
    In this episode, Riley Kirk shares her personal journey through pregnancy, focusing on her experiences with cannabis use, tapering down her consumption, and the emotional and physical changes she faced. She discusses the importance of mental health during this time, the role of her supportive partner, and the diagnosis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). The conversation also touches on the gender reveal process and the complexities of navigating a high-risk pregnancy. In this conversation, Riley Kirk shares her personal journey with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP), a rare liver condition that can occur during pregnancy. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced, the medical treatments available, and the lifestyle changes she made to manage her symptoms. Riley emphasizes the importance of mental health support and community during this difficult time, and reflects on her experiences as a pregnant woman in the cannabis community. She also expresses gratitude for the support she received from friends and family, and looks forward to continuing the conversation about women's health and pregnancy in future episodes. THE MAIN TAKEAWAY OF THIS EPISODE IS TO BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE DURING PREGNANCY. PHYSICIANS KNOW A LOT BUT YOU ARE THE EXPERT ON YOUR OWN BODY. (THERE'S ALSO A SECRET SEED GIVEAWAY IF YOU CLICK THE PATREON LINK) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pregnancy Journey and Cannabis Use 03:11 Discovering Pregnancy and Initial Reactions 05:55 Tapering Down Cannabis Consumption 08:48 Methods of Consumption and Personal Preferences 12:01 Managing Migraines and Mental Health During Pregnancy 15:11 The Role of Supportive Partners 18:00 Gender Reveal and Early Testing 20:51 High-Risk Pregnancy and ICP Diagnosis 27:14 Understanding Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) 30:00 The Emotional Toll of High-Risk Pregnancy 33:07 Treatment Options and Medical Anomalies 35:53 Lifestyle Changes and Natural Remedies 40:09 Mental Health and Support During Pregnancy 44:01 Reflections on Pregnancy and Community Support 49:00 Looking Ahead: Future Topics and Conversations Preorder my book Reefer Wellness! ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    54 m
  • The Amazing Coevolution of Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed Plants with Dr. Anurag Agrawal

    The Amazing Coevolution of Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed Plants with Dr. Anurag Agrawal
    May 16 2025
    In this conversation, Host Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Anurag Agrawal discuss the intricate relationship between monarch butterflies and milkweed, exploring themes of coevolution, chemical ecology, and the ecological arms race. He explains how monarchs have adapted to survive the toxic compounds in milkweed, the challenges they face due to habitat destruction and pesticides, and the importance of conservation efforts. The discussion highlights the fascinating dynamics of species interactions and the need for community involvement in preserving biodiversity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Monarchs and Milkweed 06:32 The Co-evolutionary Dance 11:32 Monarchs vs. Milkweed: The Arms Race 20:14 The Role of Cardiac Glycosides 30:01 Sequestration and Survival Strategies 31:37 The Journey of Monarch Butterflies 37:30 Understanding Monarch Population Decline 46:49 Human Impact on Monarchs and Conservation Efforts 54:01 Exploring Other Fascinating Insects Follow Dr.Agrawal’s research: https://ecologyandevolution.cornell.edu/anurag-agrawal https://agrawal.eeb.cornell.edu/ Read or listen to Monarchs and Milkweed https://www.amazon.com/Monarchs-Milkweed-Migrating-Remarkable-Coevolution/dp/0691166358 Preorder my book Reefer Wellness! ⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    59 m
  • Figuring out how THC works in the brain with Dr. Allyn Howlett

    Figuring out how THC works in the brain with Dr. Allyn Howlett
    May 2 2025
    In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Allyn Howlett—renowned neuroscientist and pioneer in cannabinoid research—shares her groundbreaking journey into the study of cannabis and the discovery of the CB1 receptor. Originally focused on neuronal hormones, Dr. Howlett recounts how her curiosity led to one of the most pivotal findings in medical cannabis science: the identification of the brain’s first cannabinoid receptor. She dives into the mechanisms of THC, the function of cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, and the discovery of the endocannabinoid system. The conversation explores the historical development of cannabinoid research, the barriers posed by the pharmaceutical industry, and the evolving relationship between academia and drug development. Dr. Howlett also discusses the future of cannabinoid science—including targeted therapies, pain relief, and the medical potential of cannabis compounds. This episode offers an essential look at the scientific foundation behind cannabis medicine and its impact on legalization, healthcare, and public perception. 🔬 Keywords: CB1 receptor, endocannabinoid system, THC, cannabis research, Dr. Allyn Howlett, cannabinoid receptors, medical cannabis, neuroscience, cannabis and pain relief, cannabis legalization, targeted cannabinoid therapies. Follow Dr.Howlett's research: https://school.wakehealth.edu/faculty/h/allyn-howlett Preorder my book Reefer Wellness! ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠ ✨ Want Exclusive Content? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem ⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 3 m