Cannabis Tech Talks

Cannabis & Tech Today

Cannabis Tech Talks is a high-spirited and informative 10-20 minute discussion with cannabis industry leaders about the business, science, and tech topics moving the industry forward! The podcast is produced by the team behind the award-winning quarterly publication Cannabis & Tech Today.

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 237: Martian Grow Is Sending Cannabis Seeds to Space to Create the Next Generation of Genetics

    Recorded live at ICBC Berlin 2026, Chuck sits down with the team behind Martian Grow, an ambitious international research initiative that's sending cannabis seeds into orbit aboard a SpaceX mission to study how cosmic radiation and microgravity influence cannabis genetics. Partnering with biotechnology researchers in Slovenia and aerospace companies developing microsatellites, Martian Grow aims to become the first organization to apply proven space agriculture research protocols to cannabis. The project could unlock new cannabinoid profiles, increased yields, unique terpene expressions, shorter flowering cycles, and entirely new genetic traits that simply can't be replicated on Earth. The conversation explores the science behind space-induced mutations, why seeds are the ideal medium for the experiment, and how similar research has already produced stronger food crops around the world. The team also discusses their vision of creating a collaborative research platform where breeders, cultivators, scientists, and consumers can all play a role in shaping the future of cannabis genetics. Whether you're fascinated by cannabis science, space exploration, plant genetics, or groundbreaking agricultural research, this episode offers a fascinating look at one of the industry's most innovative projects. 🔥 Topics Covered • Why cannabis seeds are being sent to space • How cosmic radiation affects plant genetics • SpaceX launch and polar orbit mission details • Why seeds are better than tissue cultures for research • Previous space agriculture successes with food crops • Potential for new cannabinoids and terpene profiles • Increasing cannabis yields through space research • Why space conditions can't truly be recreated on Earth • The future of cannabis research and innovation • Building a collaborative cannabis genetics program 👤 Guests Martian Grow Team 🌐 Website: https://MartianGrow.com ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:19 Sending cannabis genetics into space 00:57 How the project began 01:32 Why they're sending seeds instead of plants 02:06 What space agriculture has already achieved 02:58 How the seeds will reach orbit 03:43 The origin of the project 04:31 Becoming the first cannabis space genetics experiment 05:23 Why space can't be replicated on Earth 06:02 Choosing a high-radiation polar orbit 06:34 Selecting and tracking cannabis genetics 07:28 What researchers hope to discover 08:03 Why the cannabis industry needs more research 09:00 Where to learn more about Martian Grow 09:31 Dreaming of mutant cannabis strains 10:07 Building a collaborative genetics community 💬 What do you think? If space can improve crops like wheat, rice, and peppers, could it revolutionize cannabis genetics too? What would you be most excited to see from cannabis grown from space-exposed genetics? Higher yields, new cannabinoids, unique terpene profiles, or entirely new strains? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #CannabisTech #SpaceAgriculture #CannabisResearch #MartianGrow #CannabisScience #SpaceX #CannabisInnovation #ICBCBerlin #PlantScience #CannabisGenetics WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

  2. 3d ago

    Episode 236: Berner Talks Splash City, Cannabis, Music & His Move Into Filmmaking

    Rapper, entrepreneur, and Cookies founder Berner joins Cannabis & Tech Today to discuss Splash City, his gritty new crime thriller set in San Francisco. Berner explains how the Bay Area’s “bippin” scene inspired the film and takes us through the process of developing its characters, self-financing the production, co-directing, and securing a distribution partnership with Lionsgate. He also discusses the classic crime dramas that influenced the project, including Menace II Society, Boyz n the Hood, Juice, and Belly. The conversation explores how Berner’s music career shaped the film’s soundtrack, why he decided to rescore much of the movie in four days, and how shooting on location allowed San Francisco to become a character of its own. He also shares how cannabis influences his creative process, why CBD played an unexpected role on set, and what he hopes audiences take away from the story. For Berner, Splash City represents more than a first film. It is the beginning of an effort to bring edgy, culturally authentic crime movies back to the screen while shining a brighter light on Bay Area stories. 🔥 Topics Covered • The inspiration behind Splash City • Berner’s transition from music and cannabis into filmmaking • Developing the characters and story • Self-financing and retaining ownership of the film • Partnering with Lionsgate • Classic crime films that influenced Splash City • Filming throughout San Francisco • Creating the soundtrack and rescoring the movie • Cannabis and Berner’s creative process • Using CBD during smoking scenes • Cameos and organic product placement • The consequences of negative influences and small decisions • Berner’s plans for future Bay Area films • The film’s video-on-demand and streaming plans 👤 Guest Berner, rapper, entrepreneur, Cookies founder, and co-director of Splash City 🌐 Learn More Splash City: https://www.instagram.com/splashcitythemovie/ Berner: https://www.instagram.com/berner415/ ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:18 The inspiration behind the film 00:36 Berner’s role in creating and directing the movie 01:32 Learning filmmaking from the ground up 01:48 Consistency, persistence, and creative entrepreneurship 02:22 Self-financing the film and partnering with Lionsgate 03:17 Building a movie for an established audience 03:55 The classic crime films that inspired Splash City 04:43 Reflecting on the finished film 05:19 Building the soundtrack 05:36 Rescoring the movie in four days 07:03 Drawing from Berner’s San Francisco experiences 07:35 Cameos and product placement 08:09 How CBD helped on set 08:42 Making San Francisco part of the story 08:57 Cannabis and Berner’s creative process 09:38 What audiences should take away from Splash City 10:32 Theatrical, video-on-demand, and streaming plans 11:10 Why audiences should support the film 💬 What do you think? Can Splash City help bring gritty, authentic crime dramas back to the screen? What other Bay Area stories would you like to see Berner tackle next? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! #Berner #SplashCity #Cookies #CannabisCulture #CannabisAndTechToday #BayArea #SanFrancisco #Lionsgate #CrimeThriller #Filmmaking WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

  3. Aug 4

    Episode 235: Broken Lizard Comedy Group Talks about Super Troopers 3, Cannabis, AI & Comedy

    The Broken Lizard crew joins Cannabis & Tech Today for an exclusive conversation celebrating Super Troopers 3, diving into the creative process behind one of comedy's most beloved franchises. From writing while high (and knowing when to stop), to how cannabis legalization has changed comedy, the group shares hilarious stories about brainstorming, improvisation, and why the best jokes often happen long after the writing session ends. They also discuss AI, creativity, police fans, and what audiences can expect from the next chapter of the Super Troopers universe. The conversation is packed with behind-the-scenes stories, classic Broken Lizard banter, and an honest look at how the comedy team has stayed funny for more than two decades. Whether you're a longtime Super Troopers fan, interested in comedy writing, cannabis culture, or curious about how AI fits into creative work, this episode is full of laughs and behind-the-scenes insight. 🔥 Topics Covered • The creative process behind Super Troopers 3 • Writing comedy with and without cannabis • Why brainstorming high can work (sometimes) • The evolution of cannabis culture since 2001 • How legalization changed stoner comedies • Improvisation and crafting memorable dialogue • AI, ChatGPT, and comedy writing • Why Broken Lizard isn't worried about AI replacing writers • Behind-the-scenes stories from filming the franchise • What fans can expect from Super Troopers 3 👤 Guests Broken Lizard Comedy Group 🌐 Learn More: https://www.searchlightpictures.com/super-troopers-3 ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:24 Meeting Broken Lizard 00:43 Creating Super Troopers 3 01:39 Cannabis and the writing process 02:33 When to write high—and when not to 02:53 Brainstorming and developing ideas 03:53 Capturing jokes before they're forgotten 05:14 Writing authentic comedy dialogue 06:45 How cannabis culture has changed since Super Troopers 07:54 Legalization and the future of stoner comedy 09:17 Why cops and stoners both love Super Troopers 11:37 Technology, AI, and ChatGPT 13:47 Can AI ever write great comedy? 15:14 What Super Troopers 3 is all about 16:17 Bringing back the R-rated comedy experience 💬 What do you think? Has cannabis legalization changed comedy for the better, or do you miss the rebellious spirit of the early stoner films? And do you think AI will ever be able to write a genuinely funny comedy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! #SuperTroopers3 #BrokenLizard #Comedy #CannabisCulture #CannabisTech #AI #ChatGPT #MovieInterview #BehindTheBadge #CannabisAndTechToday WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

  4. Aug 4

    Episode 234: Alibi Founder Marianne Cursetjee on Building an Award-Winning Cannabis Brand with Purpose

    Recorded live at ICBC Berlin 2026, Chuck sits down with Marianne Cursetjee, founder of Alibi, to discuss how a personal battle with cancer inspired one of the cannabis industry's most respected brands. From Oregon to New York, Alibi has built a reputation for producing award-winning flower and pre-rolls while staying committed to quality, employee wellbeing, and authentic cannabis experiences. Marianne shares how the company has navigated highly competitive markets, why premium flower matters, and what it takes to stand out in today's rapidly evolving cannabis industry. The conversation also explores European cannabis regulations, the future of international expansion, why cannabis should be treated as medicine, and the importance of cultivating clean flower instead of relying on remediation technologies. Whether you're interested in cannabis cultivation, entrepreneurship, premium products, or the future of the global cannabis market, this episode offers valuable insights from one of the industry's most passionate founders. 🔥 Topics Covered • Building Alibi from a personal healing journey • Expanding from Oregon to New York • Winning top cannabis awards in multiple states • Creating award-winning pre-rolls • Why premium flower always comes first • Paying employees a living wage in cannabis • European cannabis regulations and medical markets • The debate over cannabis remediation • International expansion opportunities • The future of premium cannabis brands 👤 Guest Marianne Cursetjee Founder, Alibi 🌐 Website: https://alibicannabis.com/ ⏱️ CHAPTERS 01:05 First impressions of Europe's cannabis market 01:40 The story behind Alibi 02:14 Expanding from Oregon to New York 03:05 What makes Alibi different 03:57 Building a people-first company 04:13 Winning Best Flower and Best Pre-Roll 04:29 The secret to award-winning pre-rolls 05:35 Creating a lifestyle cannabis brand 06:24 The future of Alibi 07:41 European cannabis and medical access 08:19 Why remediation concerns cultivators 09:37 New products and fashion collaborations 10:28 Where to learn more about Alibi 💬 What do you think? Should cannabis brands focus on producing the highest-quality flower, even if it means charging a premium? And as more countries embrace medical cannabis, do you think the U.S. should adopt more of Europe's approach to patient access? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #CannabisTech #CannabisCultivation #CannabisBusiness #Alibi #CannabisInnovation WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

  5. Jul 28

    Podcast 233: Ocarena Group Founders Reveal the Future of Premium Dry Herb Vaporizers

    Recorded live at ICBC Berlin 2026, Chuck sits down with Kevin Cederferm & Gustaf Leffler, founders of Ocarena Group, to showcase one of the most innovative dry herb vaporizers on the market. Built by engineers and creators who were frustrated with existing devices, the Ocarena vaporizer features a seven-chamber magazine, attachable grinder, tool-free battery swaps, modular all-metal construction, and precision temperature control—all designed to make premium dry herb consumption simpler, cleaner, and more enjoyable. The conversation dives into the engineering process behind the device, why durability and health were central to the design, and how a small startup is using modern manufacturing technology to compete with industry giants. The founders also discuss their strategy for international expansion, premium retail partnerships, and collaborations within the cannabis industry. Whether you're interested in cannabis technology, hardware innovation, entrepreneurship, or product design, this episode offers an inside look at how great ideas become groundbreaking products. 🔥 Topics Covered Building a better dry herb vaporizerEngineering a premium cannabis deviceSeven-chamber magazine system explainedAttachable grinder and modular designEasy cleaning and all-metal constructionBattery swapping and travel-friendly featuresHealth-focused vaporizer engineeringModern manufacturing for startupsScaling a cannabis hardware companyThe future of premium cannabis technology 👤 Guests Kevin Cederferm & Gustaf Leffler Co-Founders, Ocarena Group 🌐 Website: https://Ocarenagroup.com ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:55 Why they built a new vaporizer 01:10 Engineering the Ocarena device 01:43 The founders' engineering background 02:33 Customer reactions and company philosophy 02:49 Live product demonstration 03:54 Seven-chamber system explained 04:30 Temperature controls and battery swapping 05:19 Easy cleaning and health-first design 06:06 Premium feel and product philosophy 06:55 Two years of development 07:28 Manufacturing and scaling innovation 08:04 What's next for Ocarena Group 08:50 Retail strategy and partnerships 09:24 Where to learn more 💬 What do you think? Would you switch to a premium dry herb vaporizer like this? What's the most important feature you look for in a vaporizer? Performance, portability, ease of cleaning, or battery life? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #CannabisTech #DryHerbVaporizer #Vaporizer #CannabisInnovation #ICBCBerlin #CannabisHardware WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

  6. Jul 21

    Episode 232: Verdant Strategies Founder, Rachel Wright on Business Growth in The Cannabis Industry

    Recorded live at ICBC Berlin 2026, Chuck sits down with Rachel Wright of Verdant Strategies to discuss building a sustainable business in an industry defined by constant change. From navigating regulatory uncertainty and international expansion to creating financial roadmaps that actually work, Rachel shares why strategy, not just growth, is the key to long-term success. The conversation explores the evolving European cannabis market, lessons learned from years of attending ICBC Berlin, and why companies often fail by scaling too quickly before fixing the fundamentals. Rachel also explains how aligning leadership, sales, operations, and financial goals can help businesses stay focused in one of the world's most dynamic industries. Whether you're a cannabis entrepreneur, investor, executive, or simply interested in the business side of the industry, this episode offers practical insights on how to build a stronger, more resilient company. 🔥 Topics CoveredThe evolution of ICBC BerlinWhy Europe is becoming a major cannabis marketSupply chain and regulatory challengesBuilding financial roadmaps for cannabis companiesCommon mistakes businesses make when scalingWhy revenue alone doesn't solve operational problemsAligning leadership teams around strategic goalsThe importance of forecasting and planningLessons from consulting cannabis businessesNetworking and international collaboration 👤 GuestRachel Wright Verdant Strategies 🌐 Website: https://verdantstrategies.com ⏱️ CHAPTERS00:17 First Impressions of ICBC Berlin 2026 00:55 Why ICBC Continues to Grow 01:26 Why Berlin Is the Perfect Venue 02:01 Opportunities in Europe's Cannabis Market 02:35 Navigating Supply Chain & Regulatory Challenges 03:13 What Verdant Strategies Does 03:50 Building Financial Roadmaps for Cannabis Companies 04:24 The Importance of Revenue Planning 05:28 Why Every Business Needs a North Star 05:52 Lessons for Entrepreneurs 06:10 Why More Revenue Doesn't Always Solve Problems 07:01 The Biggest Business Lesson from ICBC 07:17 Why Networking Matters 07:50 How to Connect with Verdant Strategies 💬 What do you think?What's the biggest challenge facing cannabis businesses today? Is rapid growth worth pursuing if your business fundamentals aren't in place? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #ICBCBerlin #CannabisBusiness #CannabisIndustry #CannabisConsulting #CannabisFinance WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

  7. Jul 1

    Episode 231: Kanalink on Global Cannabis Logistics, Emerging Markets & International Trade

    Recorded live at ICBC Berlin 2026, Chuck sits down with Rachel Wright of Verdant Strategies to discuss building a sustainable business in an industry defined by constant change. From navigating regulatory uncertainty and international expansion to creating financial roadmaps that actually work, Rachel shares why strategy, not just growth, is the key to long-term success. The conversation explores the evolving European cannabis market, lessons learned from years of attending ICBC Berlin, and why companies often fail by scaling too quickly before fixing the fundamentals. Rachel also explains how aligning leadership, sales, operations, and financial goals can help businesses stay focused in one of the world's most dynamic industries. Whether you're a cannabis entrepreneur, investor, executive, or simply interested in the business side of the industry, this episode offers practical insights on how to build a stronger, more resilient company. 🔥 Topics CoveredThe evolution of ICBC BerlinWhy Europe is becoming a major cannabis marketSupply chain and regulatory challengesBuilding financial roadmaps for cannabis companiesCommon mistakes businesses make when scalingWhy revenue alone doesn't solve operational problemsAligning leadership teams around strategic goalsThe importance of forecasting and planningLessons from consulting cannabis businessesNetworking and international collaboration 👤 GuestRachel Wright Verdant Strategies 🌐 Website: https://verdantstrategies.com ⏱️ CHAPTERS00:17 First Impressions of ICBC Berlin 2026 00:55 Why ICBC Continues to Grow 01:26 Why Berlin Is the Perfect Venue 02:01 Opportunities in Europe's Cannabis Market 02:35 Navigating Supply Chain & Regulatory Challenges 03:13 What Verdant Strategies Does 03:50 Building Financial Roadmaps for Cannabis Companies 04:24 The Importance of Revenue Planning 05:28 Why Every Business Needs a North Star 05:52 Lessons for Entrepreneurs 06:10 Why More Revenue Doesn't Always Solve Problems 07:01 The Biggest Business Lesson from ICBC 07:17 Why Networking Matters 07:50 How to Connect with Verdant Strategies 💬 What do you think?What's the biggest challenge facing cannabis businesses today? Is rapid growth worth pursuing if your business fundamentals aren't in place? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #ICBCBerlin #CannabisBusiness #CannabisIndustry #CannabisConsulting #CannabisFinance WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

  8. Jun 23

    Episode 230: SphereX VP of Marketing reveals How Free Roller Skates Built a Cannabis Empire

    When your Halloween party draws 700 people, you're doing something right. Katie Mattox, VP of Marketing at SphereX, explains how a distillate vape company captured 20% of Colorado's market by throwing roller skating parties and giving away unexpected gifts instead of just pushing products. Drawing from a decade at an event agency working with Budweiser and Michelob Ultra, she translated liquor marketing strategies to cannabis with remarkable results. The approach centers on emotional connections, not just transactions. While Colorado's cannabis industry declined since 2021 as tourism dried up, SphereX thrived by offering dispensaries twenty-five percent kickbacks on wholesale purchases for marketing reinvestment. This creative support allowed partners to run customized campaigns, from billboards to local artist collaborations. Recently, the brand expanded beyond vapes into adaptogenic mushroom gummies targeting older demographics. Their sleep gummies with five milligrams of THC and reishi have become particularly popular with novice consumers. SphereX also demonstrates values-driven marketing by supporting LGBTQ causes, recognizing the community's foundational role in cannabis culture. What makes customers return after trying a product just once? Listen to discover how SphereX plans to double production capacity to 500,000 carts monthly by 2026. Chapters: 00:00:04 - Colorado Cannabis Brand Product Lineup Overview 00:01:20 - Understanding Different Consumer Demographics and Values 00:02:46 - Supporting LGBTQ+ Causes in Cannabis 00:04:21 - From Roller Skating Events to Community Impact 00:05:06 - Building Emotional Connections in Cannabis Branding 00:06:16 - Creative Marketing Strategies for Cannabis Brands 00:08:05 - Building Trust Through Unexpected Gifts 00:09:45 - Marketing Reinvestment Program for Dispensaries 00:11:34 - Doubling Production Capacity in 2026 00:12:46 - Building Brand Connection Through Large-Scale Events 00:14:38 - THC Edibles with Reishi for Relaxation Guest Website: https://www.wearespherex.com/ WEBSITE: https://cannatechtoday.com/ Make sure to follow our other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on all things Cannabis & Tech Today. https://twitter.com/cannatechtoday https://www.facebook.com/CannaTechToday https://www.instagram.com/cannatechtoday

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Cannabis Tech Talks is a high-spirited and informative 10-20 minute discussion with cannabis industry leaders about the business, science, and tech topics moving the industry forward! The podcast is produced by the team behind the award-winning quarterly publication Cannabis & Tech Today.

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