Let's be Blunt with Montel

In Part 2 of this extraordinary series, Montel continues the conversation with Ian McGann and Caitlin Bellucci, exploring the next chapter of Ian’s recovery journey. From being airlifted to a better facility to walking unassisted within 30 days, Ian’s story is a testament to the power of determination, love, and second chances.

This episode delves into the role cannabis played in Ian’s recovery, the mental health challenges he faced, and the lessons learned from overcoming stigma and bias. Caitlin shares her experience as a caregiver, offering advice to families navigating similar journeys and reflecting on how this l...

In this powerful two-part series, Montel sits down with Ian McGann, a stroke survivor, mental health advocate, and passionate voice for cannabis in healthcare, alongside his wife and caregiver, Caitlin Bellucci. Ian’s journey of resilience began in May 2023 when he survived a rare brain stem stroke with only a 5% survival rate. From losing control of the right side of his body to walking unassisted within 30 days, Ian’s story is nothing short of miraculous.

In Part 1, Ian and Caitlin recount the harrowing night of the stroke, the challenges they faced with emergency services, and the stigma surr...

On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving deep into the world of cannabis genetics with two legends in the industry—Rick “MrSoul” Campanella and Laura “MrsSoul” Campanella of Brothers Grimm Seeds. Rick, the mastermind breeder behind iconic strains like Cinderella 99, Rosetta Stone, and Apollo, shares his decades-long journey of innovation and excellence in cannabis breeding. Laura, the newly appointed CEO, discusses her vision for the future of Brothers Grimm Seeds, balancing its storied legacy with bold new growth and collaborations.

We’ll explore the art and science of breeding, the challenges of staying ahead...

Host Montel Williams goes solo in this cannabis news roundup, breaking down the latest federal legalization developments including Trump's potential rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. 

Discover groundbreaking medical research showing cannabis benefits for PTSD in veterans and neuroprotective effects in older adults, while Montel takes a critical look at the controversial Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) and questions its sudden prominence in mainstream media. The episode culminates with Montel's passionate call for federal legalization, challenging politicians to stop playing games and embrace the scientific evidence supporting cannabis reform.

Links to ar...

In this enlightening episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by two trailblazers in the field of medical cannabis education and advocacy: Professor Sabrina Fayaz and Dr. Nick Bottaro.

Professor Fayaz, Director of the Master of Science in Medical Cannabinoid Therapeutics (MS MCT) program at LECOM, shares her incredible journey from working with multi-state cannabis operators to using cannabis as part of her own breast cancer recovery. Her personal and professional experiences offer a unique perspective on cannabis as a legitimate therapeutic option.

Dr. Bottaro, an adjunct professor in the same program...

On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by a true pioneer in the cannabis industry, Brad Zerman. As the founder of Seven Point Dispensary in Oak Park, Illinois, Brad has been at the forefront of medical cannabis innovation and community engagement since 2014. From navigating the challenges of launching one of Illinois’ first medical dispensaries to expanding his footprint with licenses across multiple states, Brad’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. 

We’ll dive into his transition from the finance and payment processing industries to cannabis, the hurdles he faced in building Se...

On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving into a story of reinvention, resilience, and redefining wellness. Montel sits down with Mary Bernuth, Co-Founder and President of Pharos Brands, to explore her inspiring journey into the cannabis industry—one she embarked on in her 60s after a dynamic career spanning global brand launches, film publicity, nonprofit leadership, and executive therapy.

Mary shares how her background in psychology and storytelling shaped her mission to create Pharos Brands, a wellness-forward cannabis beverage company designed for mindful, mature consumers. From breaking down the stigma around cannabi...

In this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by the multi-talented JoJo Simmons, a name synonymous with entertainment, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. As the son of hip-hop legend Rev Run of Run DMC, JoJo grew up in the spotlight, starring in MTV’s Run’s House and WE TV’s Growing Up Hip Hop. But his story goes far beyond reality TV.

JoJo is the CEO and co-founder of Whos House Entertainment, a music production company dedicated to developing artists, and the general manager of Whos House Ballers, a traveling basketball team for underserved yo...

In this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving deep into the roots of cannabis culture with a true legend in the industry—Dave Valese, aka “Big Dave.” With 29 years of experience, Big Dave has gone from the underground cannabis scene of the Northeast to leading the charge in New Jersey’s legal market as the Chief Visionary Officer of HoneyProjects.

Join Montel and Big Dave as they explore his incredible journey, from cultivating authentic Sour Diesel in the ‘90s to building award-winning dispensaries like HoneyGrove and HoneyStash. Discover how Big Dave is redefining the...

In this powerful episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Travis Cullen, a man who turned his eight-year federal prison sentence for cannabis into a mission for justice and change. At just 21 years old, Travis was sentenced for a first-time offense involving cannabis. Today, he’s not only a licensed dispensary owner in Minnesota but also the CEO of Freedom Soda, a brand dedicated to supporting those still incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses.

Travis shares his journey from incarceration to advocacy, including his recent event in Washington, D.C., where he brought together indiv...

On this episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we’re diving into the roots—literally—of the cannabis industry: seeds. 

Joining Montel is Sergio Martínez, founder of Blimburn Seeds, one of the world’s leading cannabis seed companies. Recently featured in Forbes for his pivotal role in shaping the booming $4 billion home cultivation market, Sergio brings over 20 years of expertise in cannabis genetics, innovation, and entrepreneurship. 

Tune in as Sergio shares how European seed companies are quietly dominating the U.S. market, why home-growing is exploding in popularity, and how shifting regulations are opening n...

On this episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel", we explore the intersection of cannabis, cancer care, and patient empowerment with two incredible guests.

 Jim Gerencser, Co-Founder of Cancer Playbook, shares how his son Eric's cancer diagnosis led him to redefine patient care through the mantra "Patient-Reported Outcomes + Research = Playbooks." Jim reveals how alternative therapies like cannabis brought meaningful improvements to Eric's quality of life, igniting a mission to turn lived experiences into actionable guidance for others. 

Joining Jim is Jamie Bennett, Co-Founder of Cancer Playbook and a healthcare disrupter whose deeply personal experiences as a...

Welcome back to Let's Be Blunt with Montel! This week, Montel dives into the latest cannabis news in a special roundup episode. No guests, just Montel breaking down critical updates from around the globe. 

📰 Here’s what’s in store:

Actor. Advocate. Changemaker.

Join Montel Williams as he sits down with Mark Pellegrino, the renowned actor behind iconic roles like Jacob in Lost and Lucifer in Supernatural. But beyond the screen, Mark is a force for reform as the co-founder of the American Capitalist Party, a movement championing individual liberty, free markets, and personal accountability.

This conversation takes a deep look into Mark’s passion for cannabis legalization and the failures of the war on drugs. Hear how his personal evolution—from a registered Democrat to a classical liberal thinker—influenced his activism and commitment to cha...

Join Montel Williams on this compelling episode of Let's Be Blunt as he sits down with Stephanie Karzon Abrams, a pioneering neuropharmacologist and founder of Beyond Consulting. 

Together, they uncover the transformative potential of plant medicine and psychedelics in modern healthcare.

From her cutting-edge research to her hands-on work with MDMA and psilocybin therapies under Canada’s Special Access Program, Stephanie shares how science and compassion are shaping breakthroughs in mental health, integrative medicine, and personalized care. She provides actionable insights into how plant medicine applications can elevate healthcare globally while emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and com...

Join Montel Williams on this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel as he welcomes Mike Robinson, founder of the Global Cannabinoid Research Center and CEO of Nanobles Corp. 

Mike shares his incredible personal story as a multiple cancer survivor who leveraged cannabis medicine to overcome devastating illnesses, including epilepsy, Lyme disease, and chronic pain. 

Explore how Mike’s groundbreaking research is shaping the future of cannabinoid medicine, including innovations like Genevieve’s Dream and the revolutionary PREVENT therapy for cancer care. 

From restoring balance to the endocannabinoid system to disrupting traditional healthcare approac...

Welcome to Let's Be Blunt with Montel! This episode features Chela and Dave Coennen, the driving forces behind Cannabis Helps Dementia and Coach Chela CannaGuides. Together, they've turned personal experiences into advocacy, supporting families and seniors in exploring the incredible potential of cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and THC.

Chela and Dave share:

What does it take to build a legacy in the evolving cannabis industry? 

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we welcome Jason Holck, founder of Dark Horse Genetics and the mastermind behind the legendary Bruce Banner strain, dubbed "the strongest weed strain on Earth" by High Times in 2013. 

From humble beginnings as a basement breeder during the prohibition era to revolutionizing cannabis genetics on a global scale, Jason shares how he turned his passion into a thriving business. 

He dives into the groundbreaking process of creating iconic strains like Bruce Ban...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Dr. Barry Gordon, the founder of Florida’s Compassionate Cannabis Clinic and a leading advocate for patient care and cannabis education. 

Dr. Gordon shares his extraordinary journey from emergency medicine to cannabis advocacy, highlighting how his clinic has set a new standard for personalized medical care. 

Together, we discuss the misconceptions surrounding cannabis, the vital role it plays in improving patients' quality of life, and its application for diverse groups like seniors. 

You’ll learn about the clinic’s approach, the latest...

Join Montel on the latest episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel as he sits down with Edward “Eddie” Osefo, founder of the Black-owned cannabis brand, Happy Eddie. 

Eddie shares his inspiring story—from his roots as a state and local tax attorney to becoming an entrepreneur, family man, and TV personality featured on The Real Housewives of Potomac. 

Discover how Eddie’s legal expertise helped him launch a premium cannabis brand in collaboration with Curio Wellness, his mission to break barriers for Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry, and his insights on creating a balance be...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Gary Roberts, an 18-year veteran firefighter turned holistic wellness trailblazer. 

Passionate about transforming mental health care, Gary shares his groundbreaking work using cannabis and psychedelics to address conditions like PTSD, addiction, and traumatic brain injuries.

 As the founder and CEO of Promises Innovative Recovery and Neurovus CBD, Gary is redefining treatment through individualized, plant-based medicine protocols paired with cutting-edge science and luxury care. From his personal experiences as a first responder to the creation of a center dedicated to advancing research and educ...

On this special episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel, we shine a spotlight on Little Beach Harvest, a trailblazing, tribally owned cannabis dispensary located on the historic Shinnecock Nation Territory in Eastern Long Island, New York.

 LBH is more than a dispensary; it’s a catalyst for cultural empowerment, economic growth, and community connection, blending modern cannabis innovation with the revered traditions of the Shinnecock people. 

Montel sits down with Jay Randolph Wright, LBH’s Product Marketing Manager, and Sean Boyd, Brand Specialist for LBH, to discuss their visionary work in shaping the LBH bran...

Join Montel for an extraordinary episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel as he talks with Dr. Ethan Russo, one of the foremost experts in medical cannabis. Dr. Russo, a board-certified neurologist and psychopharmacology researcher, has spent decades pioneering the study of cannabis and the human endocannabinoid system (ECS).

They’ll explore the science behind ECS dysregulation, the potential of cannabinoids like CBG in tackling chronic pain and anxiety, and advancements in cannabis-based treatments that don’t produce psychoactive effects. Dr. Russo also dives into how his course, Foundations of Cannabis Therapeutics, is educating patients, caregivers, and medi...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re exploring the world of cooperative cannabis farming and caregiver rights in the breathtaking islands of Hawaii. Montel sits down with Jason Hanley, a U.S. Army veteran, biologist, and the owner of Care Waialua Medical Cannabis Farm, to uncover the realities of Hawaii's cannabis landscape.

Jason brings over 22 years of cannabis-growing experience across multiple states and is a leading advocate for patients' rights and sustainable medical cannabis programs in Hawaii. He shares his firsthand experience navigating the challenges of legislative hurdles, the controversial 2023 raid on his Oa...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Mitch Chargo, a partner at Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP and a leading expert in cannabis law, to discuss the intricacies of Minnesota’s newly enacted adult-use cannabis program. With nearly three decades of legal experience, Mitch has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s cannabis industry.

Join us as Mitch breaks down Minnesota’s regulatory framework, licensing processes, financing challenges, and the impact on Indigenous communities. He also shares insights into the hurdles cannabis businesses face, success stories from companies navigating evolving regulations, and hi...

Join Montel Williams on this episode of Let's Be Blunt as he sits down with Dr. June Chin, a trailblazer in integrative medicine and medical cannabis. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Chin has developed internationally recognized cannabis care protocols and educational programs.

Currently the Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell, Vice Chair of the NYS Cannabis Advisory Board, and adjunct professor at NYU and Syracuse University, Dr. Chin is also the author of Cannabis and CBD for Health and Wellness—a comprehensive guide for those new to medical cannabis.

During the conversation, Montel and Dr. Ch...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, Montel talks with Tim Blake, a true pioneer in the cannabis world. 

Tim is the founder of The Emerald Cup, the most respected outdoor cannabis competition and cultural festival in the world, often referred to as "The Academy Awards of Cannabis." 

With over 40 years of experience in the cannabis space, Tim shares his early beginnings in the industry, his passion for sustainable farming and small-scale growers, and how he turned a small Mendocino County gathering into a global cultural movement. 

The Emerald Cup is mor...

Welcome to another exciting episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel! This week, Montel sits down with a true changemaker, former Governor Jesse Ventura. Known for his dynamic career as a professional wrestler, actor, and political leader, Jesse has also been a bold advocate for cannabis legalization.

On this episode, Jesse shares how his groundbreaking book, Jesse Ventura’s Marijuana Manifesto, challenges the misconceptions surrounding cannabis and calls for an end to the War on Drugs. He discusses why he has long championed both medical and recreational cannabis, the positive impact legalization can have on our economy, an...

Join Montel Williams on this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel as he sits down with Ricardo Baca—a pioneer in cannabis journalism and PR. Ricardo made history as The Denver Post's first-ever cannabis editor, reshaping the conversation around cannabis through groundbreaking reporting and editorial leadership. 

Today, as the founder of Grasslands, a PR and marketing agency specializing in cannabis, psychedelics, and natural wellness, Ricardo shares his insights into how storytelling and advocacy are normalizing these industries.

Together, they discuss the evolution of cannabis policy, the power of education, and the rise of psychedelics in...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with Adam Bierman, the co-founder and former CEO of MedMen—the first U.S. cannabis unicorn valued at over $2 billion during its peak. Adam's bold vision and steadfast determination propelled the cannabis industry into the mainstream, reshaping how the world views and accesses cannabis. 

Now, Adam is sharing the unfiltered story of his highs and lows in his upcoming book, Weed Empire: How I Battled Gangsters, Investment Banks, and the Department of Justice to Build the Cannabis Industry in America, releasing April 2025. From reimagining cannabis ret...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Tamara Lyn Netzel, Founder of Cruel Consequences: Portraits of Misguided Law. 

Tamara’s advocacy work sheds light on the devastating, far-reaching impact of outdated cannabis laws. She shares her personal battle with Multiple Sclerosis that led her to cannabis, as well as the heartbreaking and inspiring stories behind her nonprofit’s powerful portrait project. 

We also discuss her two groundbreaking books, The Human Cost of Marijuana Prohibition and Humans of Cannabis in a Renaissance of Hope, which highlight the systemic injustices people face lon...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we shine a spotlight on the evolving cannabis landscape in the Sunshine State. 

Montel is joined by Jamie Miller, a seasoned political strategist with over two decades of experience navigating Florida’s political scene. Jamie brings deep insights from high-stakes campaigns, including the pivotal 2000 presidential recount and key statewide initiatives. 

Together, they break down the implications of Florida’s recent Amendment 3 vote, discuss why adult-use cannabis fell short, and explore what’s next for legalization efforts. 

From the role of federal policy to the economic...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Sara Payan—a dynamic educator, award-winning advocate, and podcast host—in a thought-provoking discussion about the role of education in shaping smarter, more impactful cannabis policies.

 Sara draws on her wealth of experience, from serving on prominent task forces and committees to being a trusted voice in leading publications like Rolling Stone and Cannabis Now. 

Together, we uncover how powerful, informed education can empower policymakers, uplift communities, and dismantle long-standing stigmas around cannabis. 

We also explore the importance of educating consumers...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by a true trailblazer and multitalented innovator in the cannabis industry—AC Moon Cameron. 

A second-generation cannabis farmer, journalist, inventor, educator, and consultant, AC has been a driving force in shaping the cannabis culture we know today. 

From her deep roots in Humboldt County—renowned as the epicenter of premium cannabis cultivation—to her groundbreaking innovations like the patented CropTops Greenhouses, AC shares insights from a lifetime devoted to cannabis. We explore her “pheno to food” concept, her work with Oaksterdam University and the University...

On this episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel," we’re exploring Minnesota’s budding adult-use cannabis industry with one of its most influential figures. 

Montel is joined by Leili Fatehi, a Partner and Principal at Blunt Strategies and the owner of Crested River Cannabis Company. 

Leili played a pivotal role in shaping Minnesota’s cannabis legalization policy, and she’s here to share her expertise on the opportunities and challenges faced by the state as it enters this new frontier. 

From navigating complex licensing frameworks to addressing social equity and community reinvestment, we discuss...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Craig and Marc Wasserman, the dynamic duo behind Pot Brothers at Law, California's premier cannabis law firm. 

Known for their passion, expertise, and undeniable commitment to ending cannabis prohibition, Craig and Marc share invaluable insights into navigating the complexities of cannabis legislation, workplace policies, and interactions with law enforcement. 

Learn all about their famous 25-word Script and STFU Method, designed to help you assert your Constitutional rights calmly when dealing with law enforcement. 

Together, we discuss state vs. federal cannabis laws...

This episode of Let’s Be Blunt with Montel dives into an inspiring story of resilience, innovation, and breaking boundaries in the cannabis industry. Montel talks with Holly Roeder, an extraordinary entrepreneur who has accomplished what many believe to be impossible. 

Holly is the founder of Illinois’s first on-site cannabis consumption lounge, Luna Lounge, and the newly opened Ash & Ivy Dispensary—both female-owned and entirely self-funded. 

Holly shares how she taught herself technical law to independently secure an IL cannabis infuser license and later pivoted to creating a groundbreaking consumption lounge. 

Against all odds...

On this episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel," we sit down with Steve Kravetz, an award-winning storyteller and author of the captivating historical novel A Marijuana Man. Steve takes us on a vivid, emotional, and thought-provoking trip through the life of an ambitious cannabis dealer from 1966 to 1983. This book isn’t just a tale about the counter-culture—it’s a powerful reflection of the historical events that shaped the hippie generation and transformed America.

Join Montel and Steve as they explore the intersections of cannabis culture, history, and storytelling, discussing how personal experiences, pivotal cultural shifts, and a...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re uncovering a unique and profound intersection—cannabis and spirituality. Joining Montel is Will Johnson, the author of Cannabis in Spiritual Practice: The Ecstasy of Shiva, the Calm of Buddha. 

Together, they explore how cannabis has been woven into ancient spiritual practices, from its role in honoring Shiva to the meditative calm it brings in Buddhist traditions. 

Will sheds light on how cannabis can deepen spiritual experiences like meditation and spontaneous movement, and the importance of incorporating it mindfully and responsibly into one’s practices. 

They...

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we sit down with one of the most respected leaders in the cannabis industry, Jamie L. Pearson, President of the New Holland Group. Jamie shares her incredible story of transitioning from a successful career in global real estate to leading innovation in the cannabis space.

We explore her time as CEO of Bhang Inc., where she expanded the brand internationally and shattered stigmas surrounding cannabis use, and discuss her latest venture, the New Holland Group, a global consulting firm focused on elevating cannabis businesses worldwide.

Jamie...