Conversations With Kush

Molly the Kush RN
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Fostering community unity through education, advocacy for patients and plants, and efforts to eliminate stigma.

  1. 29/05/2025

    EP 222 | Community, Caregiving & Cannabis | The Heart of Sergio Villareal’s Journey

    In this powerful, heart-centered episode of Conversations With Kush, cannabis nurse Molly sits down with Sergio Villareal — cannabis event curator, advocate, and the man in the weed suit behind Simpatico420. What begins as a conversation about community events becomes something much deeper: a raw and moving story about grief, caregiving, and turning pain into purpose. Sergio opens up about losing his brother Johnny, how cannabis helped him through the darkness, and why every event he throws is rooted in love, accessibility, and healing. If you’ve ever felt alone in your grief, burned out from caregiving, or unsure how cannabis fits into your wellness or recovery — this episode will meet you exactly where you are. 💚 ✨ What You’ll Learn🧠 How Sergio went from burnout and grief to building cannabis community🎟️ What it takes to create truly inclusive, budget-friendly cannabis events🩺 How cannabis can support caregivers, veterans, and people navigating loss🌱 Why patient education and access must stay central to cannabis culture🔥 The emotional story behind the weed suit — and why it keeps showing up👨‍👩‍👦 The importance of creating space for joy, even while honoring pain Find the Right Strain: Episode Chapters1:00 – Meet Sergio Villareal & His Cannabis Origin Story4:30 – Early Use, Changing Laws & Redefining Cannabis in Adulthood7:40 – Caregiving, Mental Health & When Cannabis Isn’t a "Crutch"11:00 – Grieving Johnny | Losing a Brother, Finding Purpose14:00 – How Grief Showed Up & How Cannabis Helped16:00 – Creating Simpatico420 | A Legacy of Love & Community19:00 – What Makes a Good Cannabis Event? Hint: It’s Not Just Vendors21:00 – Accessibility, Fun & The Weed Suit as a Vibe Shift24:00 – The Power of Public Events That Feel Private26:00 – Sergio’s Cannabis Wisdom for New Consumers29:00 – How to Spot a Real One in the Weed World32:00 – Johnny’s Ashes, a Secret Cup, and a Beautiful Full Circle Moment35:00 – Cannabis and Grief: Not a Cure, But a Companion37:00 – Final Reflections: Don’t Wait to Tell People You Love Them39:00 – Where to Find Sergio & Support Simpatico420  Have you used cannabis to process grief or support someone through it? Share your story below — we read every comment.What makes a cannabis event great for you? Education? Music? Vendors? Weed suits? Let us know!Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that blend science, soul, and stigma-free cannabis stories 💚

    1h 4m

  2. 22/05/2025

    EP 221 | Inside Minnesota’s High Fashion Show | Smoking On The Runway

    Fashion meets function — and cannabis meets creativity — in this special behind-the-scenes episode of Conversations With Kush. Your host Molly “The Kush RN” sits down with the designers, models, and visionaries behind the 2024 Smoking on the Runway fashion show (May 22nd @ Hook & Ladder in Minneapolis). Whether you're into streetwear, sustainability, up-cycled fashion, or high-minded design, this episode introduces you to the edgy, soulful, and deeply personal work of local creators who are weaving together style, identity, and plant medicine. 🎟️Get the inside scoop on what to expect at the event, how cannabis helps fuel creativity, and why this is more than a fashion show — it’s a cultural movement. What You’ll Learn: 🧵 The mission behind Smoking on the Runway and how fashion & cannabis intersect 🛍️ How local brands like Provider and Camp Buzzkill are reimagining streetwear & DIY fashion 🧠 Why cannabis is a tool for creativity, healing, and personal expression 📸 How designers and models are using the runway to break stigma and spark conversation 🔥 Tips for upcoming entrepreneurs and artists looking to make their mark in fashion or cannabis 🫶 Why building inclusive, accessible community spaces through fashion matters Find the Right Strain: Episode Chapters  00:19 – Kirby Baller of Provider | Streetwear with Purpose & Community 06:00 – Kirby’s Nonprofit: Next Gen Legacy & Youth Entrepreneurship 08:00 – Basketball, First Responders & Changing Perspectives 08:22 – Meet Camp Buzzkill with Roxy Vale | Alt Fashion with Attitude 09:40 – Punk, Goth & Maximalist Upcycled Fashion in the Buzzverse 11:50 – Y2K, Color, and Reclaiming Whimsy in a Beige World 13:00 – Jewelry, Chains, Safety Pins & Handcrafted Accessories 16:00 – Debut Fashion Show & First DIY Event: Bust Out, June 21st 18:45 – Creating Black Representation in Alternative Fashion 20:00 – Repurposing Clothes, Custom Orders & Building the Buzzverse 21:42 – Meet the Models | Confidence, Cannabis & Catwalks with Joe & My 23:00 – From Coaching to Consulting: My Biz Inc. Empowers Models 25:00 – Streetwear That Serves the Body — Not Just the Brand 26:00 – Personal Cannabis Journeys & How It Supports Health & Focus 28:00 – Topicals, Tinctures & Non-Smoky Ways to Use Cannabis Medicinally 29:00 – Joe’s Brand: Outkast – “We Don’t Fit In” 30:34 – History of the Show & What to Expect This Year 31:54 – Infusing Cannabis & Fashion Culture with Purpose 33:03 – Creating Space for Creatives to Collaborate & Express 34:18 – Educational & Sustainability Focus: More Than Just a Party 35:11 – Want to Sponsor or Volunteer? Here’s How to Get Involved 36:46 – Ticket Info: $100 VIP, $40 GA, $20 Standing Room 37:25 – Final Thoughts & Hype for Hook and Ladder on May 22nd

    39 min

  3. 15/05/2025

    EP 220 | From Riverbank Roots to Cannabis Truths | Science, Equity & Dabbed-Out Dreams with Doc Dabs

    What do maple syrup, riverbank weed, neuroscience, and the future of cannabis policy all have in common? Dr. Clemon “Doc Dabs” Dabney III. 🌿 In this soul-sparking episode of Conversations With Kush, we sit down with a real-life cannabis molecular geneticist who’s not just talking the talk—he’s growing the genes, fighting the policy fights, and crafting terpene-forward edibles that are changing the game in Minnesota and beyond. Host Molly dives into everything from Doc Dabs' dabbling days as a communion class rebel to the molecular science behind your favorite strains. We’re talking plant breeding, terpenes, THC glitter, and yes—why most “indica vs. sativa” talk is scientifically ✨sus✨. Whether you're a curious patient, an aspiring grower, or a policy buff looking to make an impact—this episode’s for you. Let’s get high on knowledge, y’all. 🔬 What You’ll Learn: What it actually means to study cannabis geneticsTips for first-time homegrowers (get that jeweler's loupe!)How to develop your cannabis palate like a proWhy THC alone isn’t the full picture of your highHow equity and legacy can (and must) coexist in cannabis policyWhat’s holding back the hemp industry—and how to fix itWhat “Doc Dabs” would do as head of the OCM (spoiler: it's good)Why the future of cannabis is personal, precise, and deeply innovative👩🏽‍⚕️ Hosted by a nurse who vibes with late-night talks, plant-based empowerment, and smart cannabis conversations. Find the Right Strain: Episode Chapters 02:30 – Grandma’s Garden to Genetic MappingHow Doc’s love for plants (and people) took root—and what neuroscience had to do with it. 06:00 – Cannabis at College & Finding a MentorSneaking cannabis into the University of Minnesota research space? You bet. And the spark that launched a genome project. 08:30 – Hemp for Plastic? The Eco-Innovation You Didn’t Know You NeededHow hemp could make your garbage bags greener—and why it’s not happening yet. 10:00 – From Gummy Empires to Maple Syrup DreamsThe surprising (and delicious) road to Doc Dabs’ product innovation process. 14:00 – Suppositories, THC Glitter & the R&D MindsetWhat it takes to bring an idea to shelf—plus Doc’s wildest white label requests. 17:00 – Orange Terpenes, Chemo Bars, and the Perfect HighA masterclass in how cannabis works with your brain—not just your body. 21:00 – The Power of Homegrow & Community GeneticsWhy home cultivation is changing lives—and saving legacy strains. 25:00 – Harvest Tips from a ProWhat your stigmas and trichomes are trying to tell you (plus, the $5 tool every grower should own). 28:00 – The State of the Industry & The Rules We NeedMinnesota’s cannabis law: what’s working, what’s broken, and what to watch for. 32:00 – Policy, Advocacy & Losing the OCM RoleWhy Doc didn’t get the job—and how he’s still holding the industry accountable. 36:00 – Social Equity, Indigenous Justice & the Hard ConversationsReal talk on balancing opportunity with reparative justice in cannabis spaces. 40:00 – The Research That Will Change the GameFrom Sweet Tangos to THC-for-inflammation: what’s coming next in strain science. 44:00 – Sativa, Indica, and Why It’s All NonsenseThe myth that’s holding cannabis education back—and what to say instead. 49:00 – Breeding Better Products for Real PeopleCan cannabis become as tailored as a prescription? Doc Dabs says yes. 52:00 – Sustainable Cannabis: Pipe Dream or Next Frontier?Why we must innovate smarter—not just sexier—ways to grow. 55:00 – Market Woes, Rollout Chaos & What’s Next for MNWhat to expect when rec launches—and how to survive the shortfall. 1:00:00 – Concierge Cannabis & Breaking Down BarriersDispensaries need to be welcoming spaces. Here’s how to do it right. 1:03:00 – 420: Protest, Celebration, and the Waldo LegacyThe surprisingly radical history of our favorite holiday.

    1h 8m

  4. 08/05/2025

    EP 219| Canna Queens of Strategy | Branding, Burnout, and Breaking Through

    In this empowering episode of Conversations with Kush, Molly “The Kush RN” sits down with the founders of Higher States Marketing, Bree McGee and Sara Gawinski, to talk about what it really takes to market cannabis in a world where plant medicine is powerful—but platforms are petty. From SEO secrets to social media bans, product photography to patient education, these two women are helping brands create intuitive, authentic cannabis content that connects. Whether you're building a dispensary, a legacy brand, or just trying to figure out what the hell "owned platform" means — Bree and Sarah break it down with clarity, honesty, and zero filter. This episode is packed with laughs, wisdom, and the occasional “p***y power” rally cry. 💚💻🌱 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:📈 Why SEO and website content matter more than Instagram in cannabis marketing📷 The importance of real imagery, showing scale, and telling the story through photos💬 How to speak to different cannabis consumers—especially women and first-timers🧠 How education can build brand trust and consumer loyalty🚫 Why relying on social media can be risky (and what to do instead)👯‍♀️ The power of women-led collaboration in cannabis business & branding Find the Right Strain: Episode Chapters 1:00 – Meet Bree & Sarah: How Higher States Marketing Was Born5:00 – Trauma Bonding in Business & Pandemic Partnership Energy10:00 – Coming Out of the Cannabis Closet | Family, Fear & F*ck It15:00 – Who They Serve: Cannabis Brands that Center Women & Wellness20:00 – Real Photos, Real People | Trust Through Product Imagery27:00 – Education-First Strategy & Why That Wins33:00 – SEO Breakdown | What is It & Why You NEED It39:00 – Blogs, Keywords & The Long Game of Visibility45:00 – Do’s and Don’ts for DIY Cannabis Product Photos51:00 – Social Media Strategy & Why It's NOT Your Primary Platform55:00 – Cannabis for Anxiety, Menopause, Pets & Everything In Between1:02:00 – From Vertigo to Vapes | Their Personal Cannabis Stories1:12:00 – Advice for New Brands in an Uncertain Market1:20:00 – Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Higher States Marketing1:25:00 – Sign Off & Where to Find Everyone Where should cannabis brands invest FIRST—websites, social, or community events?Like, comment, and subscribe if you believe women are shaping the future of weed (because we are). Share your favorite cannabis brand in the comments below!Tag your favorite women-led cannabis company & we’ll shout them out in a future episode!#ConversationsWithKush #CannabisMarketing #WomenInWeed #CannabisSEO #PussyPower #HigherStatesMarketing #CannabisContent #CannabisNurse #MinnesotaCannabis

    56 min

  5. 01/05/2025

    EP 218 | The Science of Soul Work | Cannabis, PTSD & the Future of Medicine

    Welcome to another powerful episode of Conversations with Kush, hosted by Molly, aka “The Kush RN”—a cannabis nurse who believes in blending science, spirituality, and soul work. 💚 In this enlightening conversation, Molly is joined by Dr. Uwe Blesching co-founder of CannaKeys360, author of The Cannabis Health Index, and one of the most respected voices in cannabis science. They dive deep into the real power of the endocannabinoid system, the importance of nursing wisdom, and how to bring evidence-based cannabis care to the bedside. From PTSD and pandemic burnout to precision dosing, euphoria, and the science behind flow state—this episode explores how cannabis and plant medicine are revolutionizing health care, one conversation at a time. ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode📚 Why the endocannabinoid system is at the core of chronic illness and healing💊 How cannabis can help with opioid addiction, PTSD, pain, anxiety, and metabolic syndrome🧬 The science behind terpenes, chemovars, and flow states🩺 How nurses are leading the movement to bring cannabis care to the bedside🧘 The power of plant medicine, intentional use, and trauma-informed dosing Find The Right Strain: Episode Chapters⏱ 5:00 – Case Studies, COVID, and Compassion FatigueWhy nurses are essential to cannabis care and how plant medicine restores purpose ⏱ 15:00 – CannaKeys 360 & Organizing the ScienceHow the Cannabis Health Index evolved into a real-time evidence-based platform ⏱ 25:00 – What the Research Actually ShowsEndocannabinoid deficiency, aging, non-cannabis ECS boosters, and "suboptimal health" ⏱ 35:00 – From Petri Dishes to Meta-AnalysesUnderstanding primary vs. related studies + how clinicians use CannaKeys in real time ⏱ 47:00 – Treatment Algorithms That WorkHow to use CannaKeys for chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and now metabolic syndrome ⏱ 55:00 – Breaking Down Chemovars & Precision DosingWhy sativa vs. indica is outdated and how THC:CBD ratios matter more ⏱ 1:00:00 – Terpenes, Flow States & Soul WorkThe science of mind-body connection, healing trauma, and the spiritual role of cannabis ⏱ 1:15:00 – Cannabis & Opioid AddictionHow cannabis helps bridge trauma recovery and why harm reduction is essential ⏱ 1:30:00 – What’s Next in Cannabis Research?The future of ECS-focused health, DNA-based care, psychedelics, and total wellness ⏱ 1:37:00 – Final Thoughts + Where to Find CannaKeysHow to get involved, spread the word, and keep the conversation going Do you believe euphoria is a part of healing? ✨🌿 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Drop your biggest takeaway or question about cannabis science below! #ConversationsWithKush #CannaKeys #CannabisNurse #EndocannabinoidSystem #CannabisResearch #NurseLife #FlowStateHealing

    1h 42m

  6. 24/04/2025

    EP 217 | Sisterhood, Science & Soul Work | Cannabis Conversations from the Frontlines

    Welcome to a groundbreaking episode of Conversations with Kush, live from the DOPE Roots: Women & Cannabis Summit — a powerful gathering of women, healers, chefs, scientists, entrepreneurs, and activists building community through cannabis. Molly, “The Kush RN”, leads a vibrant, soul-filled series of interviews with women changing the game — from medical professionals pioneering pediatric cannabis care, to terpene educators, to hot sauce entrepreneurs infusing their work with flavor, healing, and activism. This episode is a tribute to the wisdom, wit, and wellness of women who show TF up — loudly, boldly, and unapologetically — in cannabis and beyond. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 👩‍⚕️ How nurses are bridging the gap between healthcare and cannabis 🍄 The power of plant medicine, microdosing, and menopause support 🧪 Why terpenes matter (and how to build your own smell lexicon!) 🔥 How cannabis can empower creativity, business, and bodily autonomy 📣 Real talk on burnout, business ownership, and women stepping into leadership 🍪 Why grandma-style weed cookies might be the most healing thing ever Whether you're new to cannabis or a seasoned consumer, this episode offers community, conversation, and connection for every stage of your journey. Find the Right Strain: Episode Chapters  1:00 – Balanced Canna: Pediatric Cannabis & Healthcare Gaps 7:00 – Terpenes Are Power | Taste, Smell & Craft Cannabis with Ghislaine Ball 17:00 – Curating Your Cannabis Experience | Beyond THC Percentages 22:00 – Culinary Cannabis & Infused Experiences with Hi Flora’s Heather 29:00 – Creating Cannabis Spaces for Women & Menopause Support 34:00 – Building Wellness Products for Perimenopause & Pleasure 41:00 – Barriers to Entry for Women in Cannabis 45:00 – Recipes with a Purpose | Hot Sauce, Munchies & Million Meal March 53:00 – Plant Medicine + Culture | Rasta Cheese’s Community Approach 59:00 – The Nurse Behind Cirrus | Honoring Grief, Healing & Family Roots 1:06:00 – Burnout, Cannabis, and Nurse Recovery Stories 1:14:00 – Entrepreneurial Wisdom | From Raspberry Stands to National Brands 1:22:00 – North Bloom Magazine | Centering Women in Print & Practice 1:27:00 – The NWACC | Women’s Cannabis Collective on P***y Power & Professional Growth 1:37:00 – The Visionary: Nekima Levy Armstrong on Community, Justice & Joy 1:51:00 – Cookies for the Soul | Family, Legacy & Delicious Cannabis Love 1:53:00 – Final Reflections | Why We Can’t Stop Here What do YOU want more of in cannabis events — education, fun, food, or safe spaces? 💚 Drop your thoughts below!What’s your personal cannabis story? How has it helped you heal, evolve, or show up more powerfully in the world? 🌱Like, comment, and subscribe to keep the Conversations with Kush going — where every episode is part science, part soul, and all heart #WomenInCannabis #CannabisCommunity #ConversationsWithKush #CannabisNurse #PussyPower #CannabisForHealing #TerpenesMatter #BurnoutRecovery #CannabisEvents #MicrodosingMagic

    1h 53m

  7. 10/04/2025

    EP 216 |The Money Behind the Movement | Banking Solutions for Cannabis Entrepreneurs

    🌿 Welcome to Conversations with Kush! 🌟 In this episode, Molly "The Kush RN" sits down with Brandon Padget, Chief Deposit Officer at Union Bank & Trust, to discuss one of the most challenging aspects of the cannabis industry—banking. How do cannabis businesses get banking services? Why do some banks drop cannabis clients? What’s the deal with cash-heavy dispensaries and security risks? How can small businesses secure loans in a federally restricted market? Brandon breaks it all down—from how cannabis entrepreneurs can access banking services to why labor unions and financial institutions must collaborate to strengthen the industry. Whether you're a cannabis business owner, industry advocate, or just curious about the financial side of legal cannabis, this episode is packed with insights. What’s Inside This Episode: 🏦 Why Banks Are Hesitant to Work with Cannabis – The compliance, legal, and financial challenges. 🌱 Union Bank & Trust’s Role in the Cannabis Industry – How they’re helping operators stay compliant & financially secure. 📉 The Cannabis Banking "Stigma" – Why banks get nervous and how the SAFE Banking Act could change everything. 💰 Access to Capital & Loans – Why startup money is hard to get and what business owners can do. 💡 How to Choose the Right Bank – Red flags, hidden fees, and what cannabis entrepreneurs should look for. What You’ll Learn: How to open a bank account for your cannabis business without getting shut down.Why compliance is key and how to avoid banking risks.The biggest challenges of running a cash-heavy cannabis business.How small business owners can prepare for financial success in a high-risk industry.What’s next for federal legalization, SAFE Banking, and the future of cannabis-friendly finance.If you’re involved in the cannabis industry, financial world, or just want to learn more about the behind-the-scenes business side of weed, this episode is a must-watch. Find the Right Strain: Episode Chapters ⏱ 5:00 – Why Banks Hesitate to Work with Cannabis Businesses The compliance risks, federal restrictions, and industry stigmas. ⏱ 10:00 – How Union Bank & Trust Became a Cannabis-Friendly Bank The journey from labor unions to full cannabis financial services. ⏱ 18:00 – Why So Many Cannabis Businesses Struggle with Banking Understanding cash handling, loan access, and financial barriers. ⏱ 25:00 – What Entrepreneurs Should Look for in a Bank Red flags, hidden fees, and choosing the right financial partner. ⏱ 35:00 – The SAFE Banking Act & Federal Legalization How it could change the game for cannabis businesses. ⏱ 45:00 – Security Risks for Cash-Heavy Dispensaries Why digital safes & armored cash transport are essential for cannabis retail. ⏱ 55:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Connect with Union Bank & Trust Where to find Brandon & his team for cannabis banking solutions. Do you think cannabis businesses should have full access to banking services? 🌿💰 Drop your thoughts below! Like, comment, and subscribe for more cannabis industry insights. Have questions about banking & cannabis? Ask them below!#CannabisBanking #SAFEBankingAct #ConversationsWithKush #CannabisFinance #UnionBank

    50 min

  8. 03/04/2025

    EP 215 | From Opioids to Cannabis | How Plant Medicine is Changing Lives

    🌿 Welcome to Conversations with Kush! 🌟 In this episode, host Molly "The Kush RN" sits down with Dr. Jesse Christianson, DNP (aka Dr. Murse) of Cannabis DNP Therapeutics to dive into the science, stigma, and patient outcomes surrounding medical cannabis. From debunking myths to exploring real-world patient success stories, this episode is a must-watch for healthcare professionals, patients, and anyone curious about cannabis as medicine. 💊 Can cannabis replace opioids? 🧠 Does it really cause schizophrenia? ⚖️ Why is Wisconsin still behind on legalization? 👩‍⚕️ What role do nurses play in cannabis education? Get ready for a science-backed, no-nonsense conversation on why cannabis belongs in modern medicine. What’s Inside This Episode: 🩺 A Nurse’s Journey into Cannabis – From grad school research to leading patient care. 🔬 The Science Behind Cannabis Therapy – What research really says about cannabinoids & mental health. 🚨 Stigma in Medicine – How healthcare professionals react to cannabis & what needs to change. 🌱 Cannabis for Anxiety, Pain & Sleep – How therapeutic formulations are revolutionizing treatment. 💼 Why Wisconsin is Stuck in the Past – The political roadblocks to legalization & patient access. What You’ll Learn: The truth about cannabis & schizophrenia – Does it really cause mental illness?How cannabis is replacing opioids for pain management & addiction recovery.Why nurses & medical professionals are embracing cannabis in patient care.The role of minor cannabinoids & terpenes in crafting safe, effective treatments.How legalization is failing patients in restrictive states like Wisconsin.If you’re a healthcare worker, cannabis advocate, or patient looking for science-backed info, this episode will educate, inspire, and challenge everything you thought you knew about cannabis. Find the Right Strain: Episode Chapters ⏱ 5:00 – From Grad School to Cannabis Science How evidence-based research led Jesse to challenge medical stigma. ⏱ 10:00 – The Stigma in Healthcare Why doctors & legislators still resist cannabis, and how nurses are leading the charge. ⏱ 18:00 – Cannabis & Mental Health Does cannabis cause schizophrenia, addiction, or long-term cognitive issues? ⏱ 25:00 – The Wisconsin Cannabis Problem Why the state remains behind on legalization despite overwhelming public support. ⏱ 35:00 – The Role of Nurses in Cannabis Care Why nurses & healthcare professionals are the future of cannabis medicine. ⏱ 45:00 – Real Patient Stories & Outcomes How microdosing & personalized cannabinoid therapy are changing lives. ⏱ 55:00 – The Future of Cannabis in Healthcare Will cannabis be descheduled? What’s next for research & accessibility? Should cannabis be covered by insurance? 🌿 Drop your thoughts below!Like, comment, and subscribe for more science-backed cannabis conversations. Tell us what YOU want to see researched next!#CannabisMedicine #ConversationsWithKush #CannabisNursing #MedicalCannabis #HealthcareReform

    56 min
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About

Fostering community unity through education, advocacy for patients and plants, and efforts to eliminate stigma.

Information

  • Creator
    Molly the Kush RN
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Molly the Kush RN
  • Show Website
    Conversations With Kush