Cannabis Health Radio Podcast

Cannabis Health Radio

Hear powerful stories from people who use cannabis to treat their health conditions, and hear interviews with medical professionals in the field..

  1. 6h ago

    Episode 505: Breaking the Cannabis Stigma in the Elder Generation - Liz Lights Up

    In Episode 505 of Cannabis Health Radio, host Robin Swan sits down with Liz Lights Up for an open and honest conversation about cannabis, changing perspectives, and breaking the stigma that has surrounded it for generations. Liz shares her personal history with cannabis and discusses why so many people in the older generation still carry fear, judgment, or misconceptions about its use. Having lived through decades when cannabis was heavily stigmatized, Liz offers a personal perspective on how those attitudes were formed - and why it's time to look at cannabis through a different lens. Through sharing her own experiences, Liz hopes to help older adults feel more comfortable having honest conversations about cannabis, asking questions, and moving beyond stereotypes that have persisted for years. Join Robin and Liz for a heartfelt conversation about challenging old stigmas, changing the way we talk about cannabis, and helping create a more informed and accepting conversation for the older generation. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 505: Breaking the Cannabis Stigma in the Elder Generation - Liz Lights Up
  2. Sep 20

    Episode 504: Exploring the Clinical Side of Medical Cannabis with Dr. Hemant K. Bid

    Exploring the Clinical Side of Medical Cannabis with Dr. Hemant K. Bid Cannabis Health Radio is excited to welcome Dr. Hemant Kumar Bid, a biomedical scientist, educator, and medical-cannabis specialist whose work spans oncology, cancer drug discovery, pharmacology, and emerging therapies. Dr. Bid currently serves as Program Director for the Master of Science in Biotechnology and its Medical Cannabis Therapeutics concentration at Morehouse School of Medicine. As one of the nation’s historically Black medical institutions, Morehouse is known for advancing health equity, building a more diverse healthcare workforce, and improving care in historically underserved communities. Dr. Bid is helping train the next generation of scientists and healthcare leaders to explore new therapies with curiosity, scientific rigor, cultural awareness, and compassion. His Indian heritage also brings an important historical perspective to the conversation. Cannabis has been part of Indian culture and traditional practices for thousands of years. Preparations such as bhang have a longstanding place in Indian cultural and religious history, while ancient writings, including the Atharva Veda, contain early references to the plant. Dr. Bid helps connect that long history with what modern science is discovering about cannabis and the human body. In this episode, Dr. Bid discusses: What cancer actually is and how healthy cells can become rogue cellsWhat scientists currently understand about cannabis, cannabinoids, and cancerWhat cannabis may—and may not—offer people living with cancerThe potential role of cannabinoids in managing pain and nauseaCannabis and treatment-related anxiety and sleep difficultiesAppetite loss and other quality-of-life challengesThe importance of scientific evidence when evaluating medical cannabisHow education and research are helping shape the future of cannabis therapeuticsMedical Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Cannabis Health Radio, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. Cannabis Health Radio is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health or medical decisions. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 504: Exploring the Clinical Side of Medical Cannabis with Dr. Hemant K. Bid
  3. Sep 6

    Episode 503: A Lifelong Journey Into the Science of Cannabis Healing - Justin Kander

    Justin Kander is one of the original pioneers of the medical cannabis movement. From a young age, he was captivated not only by the cannabis plant itself, but by the science of transforming it into meaningful medicine. With decades of experience in formulation, product development, patient advocacy, and cannabis science, Justin has helped shape some of the industry’s most respected medical cannabis brands. His work has taken him around the world, collaborating with researchers, clinicians, and patients to advance the understanding and application of cannabis as medicine. In this episode, Justin returns to Cannabis Health Radio to share insights from his lifelong journey in the field. Together, we explore the evolving science of medical cannabis, lessons learned from years on the front lines, the development of cannabis-based formulations, and where the future of cannabis medicine may be headed. You’re going to enjoy this conversation. 🎧 Episode 503 of Cannabis Health Radio #CannabisHealthRadio #JustinKander #MedicalCannabis #CannabisScience Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 503: A Lifelong Journey Into the Science of Cannabis Healing - Justin Kander
  4. Aug 23

    Episode 502: From Survivor to Cancer Survivor: Finding Relief with Cannabis - Ethan Zohn

    Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn joins Rev. Dr. Robin Swan for a powerful conversation about cancer, cannabis, resilience and finding purpose after a life-changing diagnosis. Ethan's life had already taken him from professional soccer to winning CBS's Survivor: Africa when, at age 35, he was diagnosed with a rare form of Hodgkin lymphoma. What followed was an intense medical journey involving chemotherapy, radiation, clinical trials and two stem cell transplants. In this episode, Ethan shares his personal experience with medical cannabis and how it became part of the way he managed some of the physical and emotional challenges surrounding cancer treatment and recovery, including nausea, pain, sleep difficulties and anxiety. Ethan and Robin also discuss the changing conversation around cannabis in professional sports, the importance of responsible education and advocacy, and why patients need honest information when making decisions about their health. The conversation goes far beyond cancer. Ethan explains how surviving a life-threatening illness reshaped his sense of purpose and strengthened his commitment to helping others. He discusses Grassroot Soccer, the nonprofit organization he co-founded that uses the power of soccer to improve the health and lives of young people around the world, as well as Kicking Back, his High Times series exploring the intersection of soccer, cannabis and community. In this episode: Ethan's journey from professional soccer to winning Survivor: Africa Being diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at age 35 Chemotherapy, radiation, clinical trials and two stem cell transplants Ethan's personal experience using cannabis during cancer treatment and recovery Cannabis for nausea, pain, sleep and anxiety The emotional and psychological challenges of cancer survivorship How attitudes toward cannabis are changing in professional sports Cannabis education, responsible use and patient advocacy Turning personal crisis into purpose The story and mission behind Grassroot Soccer Ethan's Kicking Back series with High Times Soccer, cannabis and community Using lived experience to help others facing serious illness Learn more about Ethan Zohn Ethan Zohn:https://ethanzohn.com Grassroot Soccer:https://grassrootsoccer.org Cannabis Health Radio Visit:https://cannabishealthradio.com If this conversation could help someone you know, please share the episode. Subscribe to Cannabis Health Radio for more conversations with patients, advocates, researchers and others exploring cannabis, health and healing. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 502: From Survivor to Cancer Survivor: Finding Relief with Cannabis - Ethan Zohn
  5. Aug 9

    Episode 501: When Stigma Is Greater Than Truth - Sharon Letts

    Sharon Letts is a national cannabis treasure, educator, and world-renowned writer whose deep love of plants and healing has shaped both her work and her personal journey. A returning guest of Cannabis Health Radio, Sharon first joined the show in Episode 16. Now, in Episode 501, she returns to share reflections from her journey over the past 15 years and the wisdom she has gathered along the way. Through years of writing, educating, and advocating, Sharon has remained deeply connected to the healing power of plants and to challenging the stigma surrounding cannabis. When stigma becomes greater than the truth, Sharon Letts continues to be a voice of knowledge, experience, and wisdom that helps light the way. Learn more about Sharon Letts and her work:sharonletts.com Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health or medical decisions. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 501: When Stigma Is Greater Than Truth - Sharon Letts
  6. Jul 26

    Episode 500: From Darkness to Light: How Cannabis Changed Sage Amdahl’s Life

    “I saw the light, and the light won.” Born with cataracts and living with visual impairment for most of her life, Sage Amdahl never imagined that one unexpected experience would completely change the direction of her life. In this milestone 500th episode of Cannabis Health Radio, Sage shares her remarkable journey of discovering cannabis, learning to trust her own body, and finding healing where traditional approaches had fallen short. What began as a personal path toward wellness soon became something much bigger. Combining her passion for cannabis with her lifelong love of cooking, Sage created a business focused on crafting delicious infused treats designed with both care and purpose. Episode 500 celebrates not only an important milestone for Cannabis Health Radio, but also the power of resilience, curiosity, and following a path that can change lives. Connect with Sage: https://www.facebook.com/sage.amdahl.3 https://www.facebook.com/420sageadvice Cannabis Health Radio shares real stories from patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers and advocates exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis and other plant medicines. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 500: From Darkness to Light: How Cannabis Changed Sage Amdahl’s Life
  7. Jun 27

    Episode 499: Looking Back, Looking Forward

    In this special episode, Robin Swan sits down with Ian Jessop to reflect on the journey of Cannabis Health Radio — how it began, the remarkable stories that have inspired listeners around the world, the legacy of co-host Corrie Yelland, and the people who made it all possible. Together, they look back on nearly a decade of sharing stories of hope and healing while looking ahead to the next chapter, as Robin prepares to carry the podcast forward with the same commitment to compassion, education and the power of personal stories. Ian Jessop's final episode as host of Cannabis Health Radio (episode 499), marking the handover of the podcast to Robin Swan of Swan Apothecary. Ian is stepping down approaching his 80th birthday to focus on personal wellbeing and time with his three-year-old granddaughter. Cannabis Health Radio originated from Ian's time as a Victoria talk show host, where a listener email from Corrie — a cancer survivor given 4–6 months to live — sparked the concept of a cannabis health story-based podcast. After being fired from radio on June 21st, Ian launched the podcast with Corrie, initially producing one episode every weekday for 11 months before pausing for two years, then relaunching on a weekly format. Recording challenges included a venue refusing them due to cannabis content; Ron Zahar's Victoria studio and later Dan Humiston's Colorado studio (still used today) enabled continuity, including through COVID. Story-driven content was a deliberate editorial choice from the start — personal testimonials over business promotions — cited as the key reason for the podcast's success and its ~100,000 followers across platforms. Robin's background spans structural integration neuromuscular therapy specializing in brain trauma and spinal cord injury, with extensive work across NFL, LPGA, and PGA athletes, where cannabis topicals and psilocybin became part of her therapeutic toolkit. Cannabis has been central to Robin's practice from topical applications with professional athletes to internal medicine for life-threatening illness, with Project Walk's spinal cord rehabilitation work further shaping her approach. Physical movement was emphasized as essential to longevity — Ian's use of kettlebells (swings with 60 lbs) and grocery store work cited as examples; Robin reinforced that health is accumulative and cannot be reversed late in life without consistent effort. Corrie's passing was identified as the greatest loss of the podcast's run — Ian described being in shock upon hearing the news and considered ending the show, but continued out of respect for her mission. Greatest gain highlighted was the breadth of life-changing stories, including ~30 brain tumor interviewees with 28 still alive, and parents who recovered and will see their children grow up. Robin committed to maintaining the platform's founding values of love, care, and kindness, while taking a firmer stance against scammers and haters; she warned listeners that unsolicited inbox offers of miracle medicine are always scams. Educating the community to self-regulate — through tools like muscle testing and informed product evaluation — was framed as a key strategic direction for the podcast going forward. Robin brings a reverend doctorate background and a 30-year, 30,000-client practice to the role, intending to use her title formally to convey reverence for cannabis as food, shelter, clothing, medicine, and enjoyment. Ian expressed full confidence in Robin's stewardship, thanked his wife Liisa for doing all the work behind the scenes, and signed off as a future listener. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 499: Looking Back, Looking Forward
  8. Jun 24

    Episode 498: The Man Who Replaced 1100mg of Oxycontin with Cannabis

    John Prinz shares his story of replacing 1,100 mg/day OxyContin with medical cannabis, positioning him as an early "patient zero" in opioid-to-cannabis transition. A 1992 workplace injury at Simpson Paper in Anderson, CA led to five spinal surgeries, hardware implantation, and a spinal cord injury diagnosis, setting the foundation for extreme opioid dependency. At peak dosage around 2004–2005, John was prescribed over 1,100 mg of OxyContin daily alongside 13 other medications — far exceeding the typical 20–40 mg average — before the opioid epidemic was officially recognized. Dr. Lester Grinspoon's book "Marijuana, the Forbidden Medicine" was the turning point, leading John to recognize opioids as legal heroin and motivating his decision to pursue cannabis as a replacement. Transition off opioids took approximately 18 months of withdrawal, during which John developed his cannabis olive oil formula "Fusatima" — progressing from smoking to edibles to concentrated olive oil infusions. Fusatima is made with 3 liters of Costco olive oil and 1 lb of high-quality cannabis, slow-cooked at 180°F; one tablespoon yields ~300 mg combined THCA/THC, with a full dose of 4 tablespoons twice daily reaching ~2,400 mg. Lower heat during preparation preserves more THCA (non-psychoactive), while higher heat converts it to THC — allowing dosage customization depending on whether patients want psychoactive effects. THCA capsules made from raw, unheated cannabis are recommended for patients who want pain relief without the high, broadening the formula's accessibility. Post-surgery use at UCSF in June 2025 demonstrated Fusatima's clinical viability — John used no opioids after his sixth back surgery, self-administering the formula four days post-op with his surgeon's awareness. John's pain doctor Dr. Michael H. Moskowitz documented cannabis use in monthly medical records from 2005 to 2021, and those papers have since been used to educate other patients and gain acceptance from Medicare and Social Security. Advocacy efforts included writing Senator Dianne Feinstein starting in 2009, which John credits as contributing to OxyContin's removal from the market by 2011–2015, and writing Senator Obama in 2007 requesting rescheduling. Fentanyl's rise on the streets is directly linked to forced opioid withdrawal — patients lost prescriptions without a sanctioned alternative, and cannabis remains underutilized due to stigma even among marijuana advocates. Trump's executive order rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III is seen as a pivotal moment, though pharmaceutical companies including Jazz Pharmaceutical (105 patents), Pfizer (25), and Bristol-Myers Squibb (36) are positioned to commercialize it. Getting Fusatima into pharmacies — regardless of who manufactures it, including potentially a Sackler-backed company — is the stated goal, as insurance reimbursement only becomes possible once it reaches the pharmacy system. Core takeaway: growing your own cannabis is the most reliable path to access and affordability — patients who don't grow will struggle to maintain supply, and self-sufficiency is framed as the foundation of medical freedom. Connect with Cannabis Health Radio Visit us at CannabisHealthRadio.com Explore products and resources from Swan Apothecary Follow Cannabis Health Radio on Facebook and Instagram Important Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on Cannabis Health Radio (CHR) are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CHR, its hosts, producers, affiliates, or sponsors. CHR is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by its guests. Nothing presented in this episode constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a recommendation regarding what you should do. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medical conditions, medications, or treatment decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Episode 498: The Man Who Replaced 1100mg of Oxycontin with Cannabis
4.7
out of 5
230 Ratings

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Hear powerful stories from people who use cannabis to treat their health conditions, and hear interviews with medical professionals in the field..

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