Tired of feeling like your vote doesn’t matter? In this episode of Cannabis Enlightened, Dr. Leroy is joined by Chad Peace of the Independent Voter Project to break down how reforms like ranked choice and open primaries can make every ballot more meaningful. They dive into why broadening voter choice isn’t just about politics — it’s about opening the door for more voices, more nuance, and even more honest conversations around issues like cannabis.

Be sure to visit March and Ash to see the latest discounts for your favorite brands. Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at OlasMedia.com

Some notable moments from this episode:

02:41 – Chad introduces himself and his work with IVC Media)

03:27 – Dr. Leroy highlights the wide range of Olas Media topics)

03:34 – Chad jokes about “limited battery power”)

03:38 – Breaking down the reach of Olas Media)

04:06 – Introducing the issue of ranked choice voting)

04:40 – Chad explains the origins of the Independent Voter Project)

06:01 – Discussion of primaries leading into general elections)

06:12 – Red and blue districts leave independents with less impact)

07:26 – California’s nonpartisan primary system explained)

10:14 – Choice voting as a way to make every vote more meaningful)

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Recorded during Juneteenth, this episode of Cannabis Enlightened features Dr. Leroy in conversation with appellate attorney and community activist Andrea St. Julian on the future of voting in San Diego. Though released after the holiday, Andrea’s insights on choice voting — from breaking the grip of incumbents to giving voters the power to back the candidates they truly believe in — carry forward the spirit of freedom and civic empowerment year-round.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at OlasMedia.com and to get latest discounts and best brands visit MarchandAsh.com

Some highlights from this episode include:

00:00:23 – Opening, Sponsors, and Juneteenth Reflections

00:03:18 – Introducing Andrea St. Julian

00:04:15 – From Police Oversight to Choice Voting

00:06:08 – Why the Current Voting System Falls Short

00:09:11 – How Primaries Protect Incumbents

00:14:12 – The Two-Party Grip and Duverger’s Law

00:16:31 – How Choice Voting Empowers Voters

00:23:21 – Who Opposes Choice Voting and Why

00:34:18 – Lessons from Ireland and Positive Campaigning

00:38:24 – The 2028 Ballot Initiative and Call to Action

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Ever wonder who makes March and Ash look so darn good? Well, buckle up, folks — Dr. Leroy sits down with Jessica “JQ” Quesada, the dynamo behind the stunning visuals and stylish apparel at March and Ash. JQ spills the tea on everything from designing hats that fly off the shelves to creating shirts subtle enough to wear to church (true story!). She’s been there since Day One, transforming spaces, picking color palettes, and dreaming up local-themed designs that turn each store into a neighborhood vibe. From staying up till sunrise perfecting new store layouts to juggling ten locations and a calendar that’s always three seasons ahead, JQ’s world is equal parts creativity, strategy, and a whole lot of hustle. Step inside the world where merchandising becomes magic — and learn why March and Ash is so much more than just a store.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at OlasMedia.com . Visit MarchandAsh.com to see the latest deals and discounts.

Some highlights from the episode include:

00:00:00 – Show intro; March and Ash focus

00:03:02 – JQ intro and role

00:04:09 – First concierge hire

00:05:34 – Restaurant-to-cannabis journey

00:06:24 – Merch vs. apparel explained

00:07:08 – Employee apparel perks

00:08:18 – Custom hat and shirt designs

00:12:31 – Merch as brand marketing

00:14:26 – Local store themes

00:29:34 – Overnight store setup story

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