The Cannabis Connoisseur

Reinventing the Lighter: Can Clean Torch Change How We Consume Cannabis?

What if one of the biggest innovations in cannabis consumption isn't a new strain or vaporizer, but something as simple as the lighter? This week Ryan welcomes Sev Isayan, founder and CEO of Clean Torch, to explore his 25-year journey to reinvent the traditional lighter. Discover how this innovative, flameless, butane-free device uses heat and airflow to both vaporize and ignite cannabis, potentially transforming the way consumers experience their favorite flower. From enhanced flavor and versatility to surprising customer stories and the challenges of bringing a...

Cannabis and Quality: What Are You Actually Buying? with Intrinsic CEO Wes Lutz!

Ryan sits down with Wes Lutz, CEO of Intrinsic, a major Michigan cannabis manufacturer and processor, for a behind-the-scenes look at how cannabis products are evolving as the legal market matures. Wes shares how his background in the automotive industry shaped his approach to cannabis manufacturing, why consistency and purity matter at scale, how consumer expectations are changing, and where the industry may be heading next. The conversation explores distillate and THCA isolate, vape technology, terpenes, testing, the limitations of traditional indica and sativa...

Cannabis and Travel Tips- Plan Ahead without Ruining Your Trip!

Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or an international vacation, traveling with cannabis isn't as simple as throwing it in your bag. In this episode, Ryan shares his personal approach to traveling responsibly with cannabis—from researching state laws and understanding the difference between state and federal regulations to deciding what products he packs (and which ones he leaves at home). He also discusses why he prefers buying locally when possible, why CBD capsules have become his go-to travel companion, the pros and cons of flower, va...

Cannabis and the Future of Federal Policy with Jim Higdon

Cannabis policy is changing fast—but where is it actually headed? In this episode, Ryan sits down with Jim Higdon, co-founder of Cornbread Hemp and author of The Cornbread Mafia, for a timely conversation about the future of cannabis and hemp in America. Jim breaks down the fight unfolding in Washington over hemp, why he believes Schedule III is an important step but descheduling must ultimately be the goal, and how cannabis could eventually be regulated and distributed more like alcohol. They also explore a potentially transformative dev...

Cannabis and Summer Self-Regulation!

Summer is heating up, and in this timely episode, Ryan explores how cannabis may help you stay cool — both physically and emotionally — when the temperatures rise. From managing mood swings and sleep disruption during heatwaves to choosing infused drinks and topicals that support balance, this episode breaks down the science behind cannabis and thermoregulation, discusses calming cannabinoids like CBD and CBN, and highlights mood-lifting terpenes like limonene and pinene. Whether you’re a former “sweaty guy” like Ryan or just trying to beat the heat naturally, this episode offers practical, science-informed ways to use cannab...

Cannabis as an Amplifier: Why the same Cannabis Doesn't Feel the Same Every Time!

Have you ever used the exact same cannabis strain twice and had two completely different experiences? In this week's episode, Ryan explores one of the biggest mysteries in cannabis: why the same flower can feel completely different from one session to the next. Discover how your mood, sleep, stress, environment, expectations, attention, and daily rituals may influence your experience just as much as the strain itself. From the science of the nervous system to the power of nature, novelty, and mindful consumption, this...

Cannabis and Beyond: Exploring the World of Vaporized Botanicals!

What if cannabis is only one chapter in a much larger plant story? This week, Ryan takes listeners beyond cannabis and into the world of vaporized botanicals. Discover how herbs like rosemary, peppermint, lavender, lemon balm, damiana, chamomile, blue lotus, passionflower, skullcap, and hops have been used throughout history and why many share the same terpenes found in popular cannabis strains. Learn practical vaporization temperatures, traditional uses, terpene profiles, and how these plants can fit into morning, afternoon, evening, and nighttime routines. If you've ever wondered what else...

Cannabis and Strain Selection: Finding What Works for You!

How do you choose a cannabis strain? If your answer is "highest THC," this episode may change your mind. Ryan explores why strain selection is one of the most important cannabis skills you can develop, how terpenes and cannabinoid profiles influence your experience, and why finding the right strain for the right situation can lead to more consistent, enjoyable, and intentional cannabis use. Plus, hear how Jack Herer became Ryan's favorite strain and learn how to find your own "home strain.

Info:
Cannabis Connoisseur Podcast...

Cannabis and Women's Cycles!

What if cannabis doesn’t actually affect women the same way throughout the month? In this episode, Ryan sits down with Beth Jasinski from the CannaFitness and Nutrition Podcast to explore the fascinating connection between cannabis, hormones, and the menstrual cycle. From estrogen and THC sensitivity to PMS, sleep, anxiety, cravings, and cannabinoid selection, Beth breaks down why cannabis can sometimes feel incredibly effective...and other times feel completely different. They also discuss how women can begin tracking patterns throughout their cycle to better understand dosing, product selection, and overall wellness. Whether you us...

Cannabis and The Future of Physician-Guided CBD Care!

In this week’s episode, Ryan continues his conversation with Pulak Sharma of Kazmira Therapeutics by diving deeper into the clinical side of cannabinoid medicine alongside Dr. Gautham Oroskar. Together, they explore why mainstream medicine has historically been hesitant to embrace CBD, what many physicians and patients still misunderstand about cannabinoids today, and how a more structured, physician-guided approach could reshape the future of cannabinoid care. The conversation covers high-dose clinical-grade CBD, patient safety, physician education, telemedicine, chronic pain management, and the growing need for alternatives to opioids, benzodiazepines, an...

Cannabis and Working Out! How it Can Help...AND Hurt!!!

In this episode of The Cannabis Connoisseur Podcast, we dive into the growing connection between cannabis and fitness — and why cannabis can either elevate your workouts or completely work against them depending on how you use it. We explore how cannabis interacts with movement, motivation, recovery, body awareness, and even the body’s endocannabinoid system, while breaking down where it may fit best with activities like walking, Zone 2 cardio, yoga, stretching, and recovery work. We also talk honestly about when cannabis can hurt performance, especially during high-intensity trai...

Cannabis and Focus: The Terpenes That Can Make or Break Your Productivity!

In this episode, Ryan breaks down one of the most misunderstood aspects of cannabis—how it can either sharpen your focus or completely derail it—and reveals why the difference comes down to terpenes, not just THC. Using real-life examples (and even a fun cameo from his kids), he explains how compounds like limonene, pinene, and terpinolene can boost motivation, clarity, and creativity, while others like myrcene can leave you stuck on the couch. If you’ve ever felt like cannabis made you more distracted—or wonde...

Cannabis and Dopamine! Why it Can Help or Hurt Your Motivation!

Ever feel like cannabis sometimes boosts your motivation...and other times completely kills it? In this episode, we break down the powerful role dopamine plays in that experience and why it’s not random at all. You’ll learn what dopamine actually is (hint: it’s not just about pleasure), how THC interacts with your brain’s reward system, and why overusing cannabis can quietly lower your baseline motivation over time. More importantly, we’ll walk through how to use cannabis intentionally...so it enhances your energy, fo...

Cannabis and The munchies myth! With Beth Jasinski

This episode dives into one of the most persistent cannabis myths: the idea that weed automatically gives you the “munchies.” While many people associate cannabis with late-night snacking, the reality is more nuanced.

The discussion explains that cannabis can influence appetite, but it doesn’t affect everyone the same way. THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system—particularly receptors that play a role in hunger and reward. This can enhance the taste and enjoyment of food, making eating feel more appealing...

Cannabis and Weaker Weed!

In this episode, Ryan discusses how modern cannabis—especially high-THC products—can have unwanted side effects, particularly with heavy or frequent use:

High THC levels are linked to increased anxiety, paranoia, and in severe cases psychosis or schizophrenia-like symptoms.
Addiction and dependency: Regular use can lead to cannabis use disorder and difficulty cutting back.
A key takeaway: modern cannabis is more potent than in the past, making overconsumption easier and side effects more intense.

Ryan highlights the benefits of micro-dosing as well as balancing the use of cann...

Cannabis And The Future Of Prescription Cannabinoid Medicine

What if the future of cannabis isn’t dispensaries…but prescriptions, pharmacies, and doctor-guided cannabinoid medicine?

In this week’s episode, Ryan sits down with Pulak Sharma, co-founder and co-CEO of Kazmira Therapeutics, to discuss the future of medical cannabis and prescription cannabinoid therapies. Pulak explains how Kazmira is developing pharmaceutical-grade CBD and using a compounding pharmacy model to allow physicians to prescribe customized cannabinoid treatments through clinics and telemedicine. They explore the science behind ultra-pure CBD, why removing THC at therapeutic doses is so difficult, and how po...

Cannabis and Migraines- What new studies show!

“In a recent study, published in Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine demonstrate for the first time in a placebo-controlled clinical trial that cannabis is effective to treat acute migraine.”

Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260130/Cannabis-shows-anti-migraine-benefits.aspx

Info:
Cannabis Connoisseur Podcast Info:
Follow us @ThecannabisC on instagram
E-mail us at: [email protected]
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BRwpUrBgQM&t=5s

“Disclaimer: The content provided in thi...

Cannabis and Tolerance- How to keep the high meaningful!

On this week’s episode, Ryan dives into one of the most important (and most overlooked) aspects of long-term cannabis use: tolerance. Sharing his own current tolerance reset, Ryan breaks down what tolerance actually is, why it happens biologically (including CB1 receptor down-regulation), and why frequency of use often matters more than total dose. He explores how stacking sessions, high-potency products, and wake-and-bake routines can quietly flatten dopamine response and dull the cannabis experience over time. Most importantly, he provides practical, realistic strategies to recalibrate…from delaying first use...

Cannabis and Menopause!

This episode explores the therapeutic potential of cannabis for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Our expert guest Beth Jasinski discusses how cannabinoids may help alleviate common symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, hot flashes, and mood swings by supporting hormonal balance and promoting relaxation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of nutrition and quality sleep as a foundation for hormonal health and emotional well-being.

Info:
Cannabis Connoisseur Podcast Info:
Follow us @ThecannabisC on instagram
E-mail us at: [email protected]
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BRwpUrBgQM&t=5s<...

Cannabis and the Winter Mood- Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder and Supportive Options!

As the days grow shorter and the sunlight fades, many people struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that can drain energy, motivation, and mood. In this episode, Ryan sits down with Beth Skinner, founder of CannaFit & Nutrition, to explore how cannabis can help restore balance during the darker months. They break down how the endocannabinoid system interacts with light exposure, how CBD, THC, and CBG can be used strategically to regulate sleep, energy, and mood, and why terpenes and timing matter...

Cannabis and Different Pain Types!

Pain is one of the biggest reasons cannabis has made its way into mainstream healthcare—but not all pain is the same, and not all cannabis use is helpful. In this episode, Ryan revisits cannabis and pain for the first time in years, breaking down the different types of pain people experience—from inflammation and nerve pain to muscle tension and chronic daily discomfort—and how cannabis can support each in different ways. He explains why intention, dosing, timing, and balance matter more than simply “using something stronger,” and shares how he personally...

Cannabis and How to Actually Use a Dry Herb Vaporizer (Without Wasting Flower)

Dry herb vaporizers are often praised as a more efficient way to use cannabis — yet many people try them once, feel underwhelmed, and give up altogether. In this week's episode, we break down how to actually use a dry herb vaporizer the way it’s designed to be used, so you get better results without wasting flower. We explore how vaping differs from smoking, why temperature strategy matters, and how grind size, packing, and draw technique can completely change your experience. You’ll learn why va...

Cannabis And Winter Sleep: How to Wind Down Without Morning Grogginess!

In this week's episode, Ryan tackles one of the most common—and frustrating—questions this time of year: how do you actually wind down and sleep better without waking up groggy? Using real-life examples and hard-earned lessons, he breaks down the difference between simply “knocking yourself out” and getting truly restorative sleep, especially during the winter months when light, movement, and stress are working against you. Ryan explores how cannabis can both help and hurt sleep depending on timing, dose, balance, and routine, and explains why intentio...

Cannabis and Where We're Headed- Lessons from Last Year & What 2026 May Bring!

In this week’s episode, Ryan discusses where cannabis is headed in 2026—using the lessons of 2025 as a roadmap for what’s coming next. He reflects on how cannabis “normalization” accelerated last year while confusion around hemp vs. medical vs. adult-use also grew, and explains why 2025 was less about hype and expansion and more about consolidation, clarity, and smarter conversations. Ryan connects the dots between rescheduling momentum and a cultural shift toward intentional cannabis use—moving from strain-chasing to outcome-based routines, terpene and cannabinoid awareness, and cannabis...

Cannabis and Schedule III- What it Actually Means!

In this week’s episode, Ryan discusses the long-anticipated federal move to reschedule cannabis to Schedule 3—and what it actually means beyond the headlines. He breaks down the five drug schedules in plain language, clears up common misconceptions (no, this isn’t legalization and doctors still can’t prescribe cannabis), and explains why this shift is nonetheless a historic moment for patients, providers, and the industry. From reduced stigma in healthcare conversations and expanded research opportunities to the major tax implications of 280E and what changes won’t happen overnight...

Cannabis and the Holiday Season!

Cannabis and Christmas are coming together in new ways — from thoughtful cannabis-inspired gifts to seasonal strains that match holiday vibes. In this episode, we explore how cannabis fits into modern holiday traditions, what makes a great cannabis gift, which strains pair best with festive moments, and how to enjoy cannabis responsibly in social settings.

Whether you’re shopping for a cannabis-friendly loved one, hosting a holiday gathering, or just looking to elevate your winter vibes, this episode brings practical tips, strain insights, and mindful consumption advice to keep the holidays joyf...

Cannabis for Improved Sleep Patterns!

In this week’s episode, Ryan dives into the top 5 ways cannabis can help you sleep better as the fall season sets in. From easing muscle pain caused by colder weather to reducing anxiety and regulating your sleep-wake cycle, Ryan breaks down practical tips for leveraging cannabis to improve sleep quality during one of the busiest and most disruptive times of the year. Whether you’re struggling with insomnia, dealing with racing thoughts, or just need to relax before bed, this episode offers actionable advice and insights for anyone looking to optimize thei...

Cannabis and How to use it!

In this episode, Ryan explores practical, science-informed ways to use cannabis safely and intentionally. He explains the main compounds—THC, CBD, and minor cannabinoids—and how each affects mood, pain, sleep, and cognition. Emphasizing that effects vary widely based on individual biology, tolerance, and product type.
The episode highlights the importance of setting and intention—using cannabis in a comfortable environment and with a clear purpose, such as relaxation, creativity, or symptom relief.

Info:
Cannabis Connoisseur Podcast Info:
Follow us @ThecannabisC on instagram
E-mail us at: th...

Cannabis and Giving Thanks!

On this week’s episode, Ryan discusses the spirit of Thanksgiving with a heartfelt exploration of celebrating gratitude. Reflecting on personal milestones and the transformative power of cannabis, Ryan shares how the plant has supported his journey toward mindfulness, positivity, and connection. From early experiences and professional opportunities to a deep appreciation for family, friends, and community, this episode serves as a thoughtful reminder to embrace gratitude in all its forms. Tune in as Ryan shares stories, insights, and practical tips for incorporating cannabis into your gratitude practice this holiday season.

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Cannabis and Mindful Eating: Finding Balance During the Holidays!

With special guest and nutritionist Beth Jasinski, we delve into how cannabis affects hunger and cravings, particularly during the holiday season. Discussing THC's role in stimulating appetite and the contrasting effects of CBD in suppressing cravings. Ryan also shares personal insights on how cannabis has enhanced his eating experience, making him a more mindful consumer. Tune in to get an intriguing look at the complex relationship between cannabis and appetite control.

Info:

Cannabis Connoisseur Podcast Info:

Follow us @ThecannabisC on instagram

Cannabis and Keeping it Effective!

In this week’s episode, Ryan dives into one of the most important skills for any regular cannabis user: managing tolerance. He breaks down what tolerance actually is, why your favorite strains can start to feel “flat,” and how that impacts not just your high, but your wallet, your health, and your overall relationship with the plant. Ryan shares practical, realistic strategies to keep cannabis effective over the long term—like short tolerance breaks, micro cutbacks, swapping in high-CBD or other non-THC cannabinoids, switching consumption methods, and supporting your endocannabinoid system with sleep, n...

Cannabis and CBG with Beth Skinner!

In this week’s episode, Ryan and Beth dive deep into the “mother cannabinoid,” CBG — the rare, non-intoxicating compound often called cannabis’s hidden gem. Together they unpack why CBG is emerging as a go-to for calm, focus, and inflammation relief without the high, and how it bridges the best qualities of THC and CBD in one balanced cannabinoid. Beth shares her experience using CBG for energy, recovery, and mental clarity, explaining why it’s become her favorite daily wellness tool for fitness and focus. Whether you’re exploring new cannabinoids or looking to...

Cannabis and Vape Carts: Rosin, Resin, and the Flavor of Cannabis

“You walk into a dispensary, and there’s a wall of vape carts labeled live resin, live rosin, CO₂, distillate, broad-spectrum, full-spectrum… and you’re just standing there like — what does any of this actually mean?”

-that’s what we’re discussing today!

References:

https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/live-resin

https://www.verilife.com/learn/what-is-rosin

https://www.verilife.com/learn/co2-oil

https://projectcbd.org/science/terpenes-the-entourage-effect/

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Cannabis and Seasonal Affective disorder: Beating the winter Blues!

As the days grow shorter and the sunlight fades, many people struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that can drain energy, motivation, and mood. In this episode, Ryan sits down with Beth Skinner, founder of CannaFit & Nutrition, to explore how cannabis can help restore balance during the darker months. They break down how the endocannabinoid system interacts with light exposure, how CBD, THC, and CBG can be used strategically to regulate sleep, energy, and mood, and why terpenes and timing matter for feeling your best. Bet...

Cannabis and Patient Empowerment with Emily Fisher, CEO of Leafwell

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are excited to release an impactful episode to kick it off featuring Emily Fisher, CEO and founder of Leafwell, a telehealth company focused on expanding access to medical cannabis. Emily shares her deeply personal journey with breast cancer, which inspired her to explore the healing potential of cannabis. She discusses how Leafwell connects patients with licensed doctors to provide education and demystify cannabis as a treatment for various medical conditions. This episode offers powerful insights into how cannabis can...

Cannabis and Cold season: Supporting your bodies defenses!

Sniffles season is back! So how can cannabis actually help? In this timely episode, Ryan cuts through the hype and shares five evidence informed ways cannabis may support you when bugs are everywhere: dialing down inflammation, improving restorative sleep, easing stress and cortisol, building resilience through pain relief, and the intriguing antimicrobial potential of certain cannabinoids. It is practical, myth busting, and packed with tips you can use right away without pretending cannabis is a cure or a replacement for medical care. If you want a clear, balanced guide...

Cannabis After Work & Job Performance

Alright, picture this: You clock out, it’s 6 PM, and you decide to light up or take a little edible to relax. But then the thought creeps in… is this gonna mess me up at work tomorrow?

That’s what we’re diving into today — cannabis use after work, job performance, and what the research actually says. Spoiler: the timing of when you use matters way more than people think.

Resources:

https://theconversation.com/cannabis-use-after-work-doesnt-affect-productivity-new-research-144780

https://www.cannamd.com/study-marijuana-work-performance/

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Cannabis & Better Is Better: Ethos CEO Gibran Washington

In this week’s episode, Ryan speaks with Gibran Washington, CEO of Ethos Cannabis, about his journey from hospitality into cannabis and how personal experiences shaped his vision. Gibran shares Ethos’s “better is better” approach, insights from their research partnership with Thomas Jefferson University, and why minor cannabinoids (not just THC) are key to cannabis’s therapeutic impact. Together, they explore building equitable company culture and creating cannabis routines to improve sleep, reduce stress, and enhance focus. A thoughtful, inspiring conversation at the intersection of science, leadership, and wellness.<...

Cannabis and Vision: Restoring Sight and Health with Al Morentin!

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Al Morentin, a wellness warrior who quite literally fought blindness and won with cannabis. Al shares how glaucoma left him completely blind, and how discovering Rick Simpson Oil not only restored his vision but also freed him from a lifetime of migraines and chronic pain. He breaks down the difference between RSO and CBD, the importance of full-spectrum extraction, and his “trifecta of health” approach that has helped over 12,000 people move toward natural healing. This conversation is packed with p...

Cannabis and Rescheduling to Schedule III

In this week’s episode, Ryan dives into the hot topic of cannabis rescheduling and breaks down what it really means for patients, businesses, and people in prohibition states. He explains how the Controlled Substances Act works, the differences between Schedule 1, 2, and 3, and why moving cannabis to Schedule 3 could be one of the most significant federal shifts in decades. From potential research expansion, tax relief, and improved banking access to increased patient trust, better medical options, and possible insurance coverage, Ryan explores the many ways this change could shape the...