Episodes

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 ...

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....

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...

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, i...

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 conve...

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 ...

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 rec...

In this conversation, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Josh Kaplan delve into the complexities of cannabis research, particularly focusing on CBD and its therapeutic potential for conditions like epilepsy. Dr. Kaplan shares his journey into cannabis research, highlighting the significance of understanding CBD's mechanisms, the role of GPR55 in seizure management, and the challenges of dosing CBD effectively. They also discuss the entourage effect, the importance of personalized medicine, and the ongoing r...

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk interviews David Sandelman from Cannatrol, delving into the intricate processes of drying and curing cannabis. David shares his journey into the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of controlling environmental conditions to achieve optimal drying and curing results. The conversation explores the science behind water activity, the significance of terpene retention, and the implications of traditional drying methods like the 60-60 ...

In this conversation, Jordan River shares his journey into the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of home growing and the concept of Overgrow, which advocates for more individuals to cultivate their own plants. He discusses the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, the connection to nature, and the role of caregivers in supporting patients who cannot grow for themselves. The conversation highlights the value of homegrown cannabis compared to dispensary products and the need for community...

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dan Nelson from Happy Valley Genetics discuss the importance of home growing cannabis and the various types of seeds available. They delve into the differences between photoperiod and autoflower seeds, the benefits of feminized seeds, and what beginner growers should consider when selecting seeds. The conversation also touches on the evolution of cannabis genetics and the significance of disease resistance in cannabis cultivation. In ...

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk speaks with Dr. June Chin, Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell, about the evolving landscape of medical cannabis. They discuss the benefits of obtaining a medical card, the differences between medical and recreational cannabis, and the challenges faced by patients, including cost and accessibility. The conversation also delves into the sensitive topic of cannabis use and firearms, recent legal cases impacting this issue, and the importance ...

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, host Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Elizabeth Sage who is a certified Ganjier- which is essentially the weed equivalent to a sommelier in the wine world. In this conversation, Riley and Elizabeth delve into the intricate process of evaluating cannabis, discussing various aspects such as appearance, grinding techniques, flavor profiles, and the importance of set and setting in consumption. They share personal experiences with different strains and emphasi...

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, host Dr. Riley Kirk dives deep into groundbreaking cannabis science with world-renowned molecular biologist Dr. Ali Bektaş. Dr. Bektaş has an impressive background in plant biology, microbes, and agriculture, specializing in affordable and distributed systems for detecting nucleic acids in agricultural environments. He has worked extensively with cannabis nurseries and biotech companies as a consultant, staff scientist, and Chief Science Officer. Notably...

understanding the ins and outs

top publications, a sneak peak into reefer wellness and New Years resolutions!

Drug smuggler to DEA agent, One Step Over the Line

Host Riley Kirk interviews Sarah Burke, the founder of Women in Media Network and her new producer!

new studies, upcoming adventures, and memorable moments from cannabis science events

With Tina Gordon, Lindsay MaHarry, Colleen King, Christina Wong and host Dr. Riley Kirk

how the chemistry of cannabis changes with different consumption methods

Exploring Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Insights from Researchers and Patients

understanding the role of water activity and moisture content in cannabis testing

Navigating and finding your path as a neurodivergent scientist