Episode 456: From Skeptic to Advocate—Dr. Dana Lillestol’s Mission to Empower Seniors with Cannabis

Life Is Chill - A Senior-Focused Education InitiativeTimestamps:00:00 – IntroductionIan introduces Dr. Dana Lillestol and her background in medicine, addiction treatment, and her pivot to cannabis advocacy.03:15 – Dana’s Journey from Skepticism to Cannabis AdvocacyDana shares how a patient inquiry and personal research changed her perspective on cannabis—especially after discovering the plant’s suppressed medical history.06:05 – Facing Stigma in the Medical FieldDana describes how her holistic approach and advocacy led to judgment from peers, and how she began supporting seniors seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals.08:45 – Common Health Concerns Among SeniorsFrom chronic pain to poor sleep and social isolation, Dana explains what drives older adults to consider cannabis and how they respond to trying it.12:30 – A Life-Changing Bus TourDana recounts a breakthrough moment with a senior who found instant relief using a CBD/CBG cream during a dispensary visit.15:10 – Combating the Fear of Getting “High”Ian and Dana discuss the social conditioning around cannabis and how education is key to changing perceptions.17:25 – Creating Cannabis Support GroupsDana explains her efforts to build community support systems where elders can share their cannabis journeys safely.19:00 – How Cannabis Supports the Aging BodyDana discusses cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, CBC, and their roles in sleep, neuropathy, skin healing, and mood regulation.23:30 – Organizing a Cannabis Education ConferenceDana details her upcoming “Modern Elder Cannabis Education Conference” in Phoenix, complete with workshops and expert panels.26:45 – Navigating Stigma in Senior CommunitiesA story about a bus tour that highlighted just how deeply rooted the stigma remains—even in progressive spaces.29:50 – Generational Attitudes Toward CannabisDana reflects on the contrast between younger generations and older adults in terms of openness and social conditioning.32:00 – Media Narratives and MisinformationIan and Dana discuss the media’s role in spreading fear, despite decades of global cannabis research.34:40 – Origins of Life is Chill and Product InnovationDana shares the mission behind Life is Chill and their development of bioavailable cannabis products using nanotechnology.37:15 – What to Expect on a Dispensary TourDana describes preparing seniors for their first dispensary experience and how the tours build comfort and enthusiasm.40:30 – Powerful Patient StoriesFrom cancer patients to Dana’s own 93-year-old mother, real-world stories highlight how cannabis has changed lives.44:00 – The Importance of Continuing TreatmentDana warns about stopping cannabis use prematurely and shares a story of cancer recurrence after treatment was discontinued.46:15 – Suppositories and RSO in Capsule FormDana discusses their development of Rick Simpson Oil in gel caps and the benefits of rectal administration.49:00 – What Surprised Dana Most About Seniors and CannabisDana shares her thoughts on the inertia and silence caused by stigma—and the joy that follows when seniors find relief.51:30 – Healthcare Professionals and CannabisDana touches on the silent interest among doctors who privately explore cannabis despite professional restrictions.53:15 – Advice to Cannabis-Curious SeniorsGo slow, start low, and seek education from reputable sources—not smoke shops.54:40 – Message to Healthcare ProvidersCannabis restores dignity, wellness, and joy to aging patients—it’s time for providers to listen and learn.56:10 – The Future of Cannabis and Aging in the U.S.Dana envisions greater acceptance, research, and a medical resurgence of cannabis driven by seniors demanding better care.57:50 – Working with Clients NationwideDana explains how people can reach her and where to learn more about her work.59:00 – Closing ThoughtsIan thanks Dana for her work and for sharing her story with Cannabis Health Radio. Visit our website: CannabisHealthRadio.comDiscover products and get expert advice from Swan ApothecaryFollow us on Facebook.Follow us on Instagram.Find us on Rumble.Keep your privacy! Buy NixT420 Odor Remover