HQ July 2025 #302 - Digital - CaliKulture - Looper
AUGUST 7-9, 2025 | NRG CENTER
SMOKE SHOP OWNERS!
Break the mold and explore a new trade show experience.
Tune In & Gain clarity on today's top consumer desires and trends 1 2 3 4 THERE’S AN ALTERNATIVE!
Discover offers crafted exclusively for businesses like yours Revamp your stock with the latest and greatest from this season's lineup
RESERVE YOUR BOOTH
HQ Magazine
As the industry’s leading publication for over two decades, we want to remind you all that we are more than just another magazine; WE are the nexus of commerce for the counterculture marketplace; headshops, smoke shops, vape shops, adult novelties, and dispensaries. Both publisher and platform, HQ exists to facilitate the continued evolution of a once-marginalized industry now on the cusp of legitimization. As a publisher, we are your advocate and your advisor, your continual stream of all information that matters to you; from product knowledge, to business insights, to how it all fits into the panorama of the bigger world. As a platform, we are your connection. We are the bullhorn, the billboard, and the bridge; the perfect bullseye of your target market. And as this industry continues to come into its own and navigate the coming seismic shifts in the landscape, we’ll be the light to guide its steps.
HQ EXPERIENCE
HQ Magazine, the industry’s longest-running publication, remains committed to serving the smoke shop community. With an unwavering dedication to delivering award-winning content, and relevant news and providing insight into the latest and greatest industry products, HQ will continue to seek out the best way to reach as many subscribers as possible.
With HQ’s recent acquisition, the tides are turning and we know that YOU are ready for something new, something BIG. If you are looking for an upgraded experience, join HQ’s Elite membership program by scanning the QR code below. With each membership, you will receive HQ Magazine each month with no service interruptions, free access to HQ’s digital magazine, exclusive o ers from our advertisers, and periodic sample boxes from the industry’s most trusted brands.
Upgrade your experience today!
President Account Executives
Sandy Caputo
Monica Frésquez monica@headquest.com
C: (505) 489-3285
Marc Toretzky
sales@headquest.com C: (213) 304-3751
Creative Director
Copy Editor Billing
Contributing Writers
David Pogge david@headquest.com
Casey Patterson
Therese Galati accounting@headquest.com
Matt Weeks
Jonathan Branch
Jimmy Wohl
J.R. Johnivan
Emily Long
Karen Maina
Ryan Mills
Guest Contributors
Julia Hamieh
Annie Holman
We welcome feedback! If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email us at editorial@headquest.com.
HEADQUEST INTERNATIONAL LLC. assumes no responsibility for contents herein. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the writer.
Published monthly by Headquest International LLC., 6300 Riverside Plaza LN. NW., Suite 100, Albuquerque, NM 87120. Send address change requests (please include information from the shipping label) to the address above, call 505-275-6049, or email subscriptions@headquest.com.
Printed in Canada on recycled paper with vegetable-based inks.
HQ has no a liates or outside sales team. Any business or person contacting you and acting as an HQ Representative or claiming a liation with HQ Publications is unlawfully misrepresenting himself or herself.
Please contact sandy@headquest.com if you are approached by any such entity.
8.3 grams
3ct GEEK MINI
9.3G
10, 20 and 40ct
10% off retail first time orders! Scan QR Code to get started.
CONTENTS
24
Smoke Signals
Expectations are high; attention spans are low. We built this section just for you.
42
Women in Cannabis
Attorney, professor, entrepreneur . . . plant healer; there’s nothing in this space Laury Lucien hasn’t tackled and dominated.
Heads of Industry
50 Slinging drinks nobody knew they wanted, Kyle Ferrando turned oddball inventory into a counterculture retail advantage.
HeadSpace
Weedy topics for wonks and chin-scratchers.
54
The Way of the Leaf Dueling articles tackling two sides of the debate on kratom, its derivatives, and the future of its legality. Don’t skip this one.
64 The Disappearing Act Ghosting doesn’t make you seem mysterious and elusive; it just makes you an asshole. Guest columnist, Annie Holman plants her flag against the most annoying practice in the professional world.
70 Hold on, John Connor
The bots are here—but they’re helpful. Here’s how to use AI to do what you hate and scale what you love.
EdQuest
Puff, puff, class in session!
76 A Patchwork Marketplace
Fifty states. Fifty sets of rules. This isn’t one market—it’s dozens. Here’s how operators are keeping up, or getting crushed.
82 The Price is Right
(If you say it is.) Gravity is a bitch. Join the race to the bottom and we can guarantee you’ll get there. Flip here for some helpful insights on maintaining your margins without losing customers.
86
The Dark Side of Sales Sales or sorcery? Learn the shady, but wildly effective tactics used to push products, play emotions, and make buyers say yes.
94
A pocket-sized hot knife, legal mushrooms, and possibly the most functional lighter ever. Take note, take inventory, take a sales call. Quest 4 the Best
96
There’s no better way to learn about an industry than from the industry leaders themselves. Get the word straight from the horsie’s mouth. Industry Associations
coming up short coming up short
And That’s the Way You Like it
Happy 710, fellow heads on the quest. May your errl flow like honey and your rips be smooth as silk—and may your cash register overflow with the earnings of high-minded dreamers with glassy eyes and sticky nightstands. But that’s not the only holiday we’re observing. As fireworks fill the sky this Fourth of July, it’s worth remembering that our movement is rooted in the same ideals: liberty, choice, and resistance to unjust control. The right to create, consume, and build something new out of something once outlawed— that’s the spirit we celebrate on both the Fourth and 710.
Now, with a fresh wave of attacks hitting our industry at every level of government, it’s more important than ever to define our values—not through party politics, but through principle and purpose. Let’s be clear: HQ has no partisan leanings. Our True North is the good of the industry—a strong, unencumbered marketplace. Red vs. blue isn’t our concern; our only interest is green. If elected o cials try to turn back the clock with laws built on bad science and misplaced fear, we’ll call them out—no matter the letter by their name. Meanwhile, internally, we aim to be a neutral voice, a forum in which the hotly contested topics within our industry can be sussed out and discussed. The debates will continue—but so will we, helping this community move forward, together. Until next time, keep your shelves full, your standards high, and your voice louder than the noise.
Them, Then Join Them.
Matt Zorn, a prominent attorney known for taking the federal government to court over cannabis and psychedelics policy, has now joined its ranks. Zorn has assumed a high-ranking role as Deputy General Counsel in the Department of Health and Human Services, where many believe he’s quietly become the federal government’s go-to authority on psychedelics. His legal résumé includes suing the DEA over blocked cannabis research for veterans, challenging the scheduling of tryptamines, and fighting for patient access to psilocybin under Right to Try laws. Long seen as a watchdog outside the system, Zorn’s move inside suggests the second Trump administration may be positioning itself to engage with psychedelics policy more seriously—or at the very least, more strategically—than anyone expected. For advocates and industry observers, it’s a surprising plot twist with real implications.
Texas Legislature Sticks it to Hemp
For the last time, vaping doesn’t cause popcorn lung
Please don’t make us say it again. Once again, media headlines are reviving the myth that vaping causes popcorn lung—despite years of research and zero clinical evidence to support the claim. The latest story, centered on a teenager allegedly diagnosed after secret vaping, lacks verification from medical professionals and appears rooted in hearsay. Popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a rare condition linked to high industrial exposure to diacetyl—something no longer common in e-liquids. Experts note that even earlier vape products contained far less diacetyl than cigarettes, which never been shown to cause the disease.
Texas lawmakers just sent shockwaves through the hemp industry. On Wednesday, the House passed Senate Bill 3—a sweeping measure that would ban nearly all hemp-derived THC products, including Delta-8, Delta-10, and THCA. The vote passed 95–44 and now heads for reconciliation before landing on the governor’s desk. If signed, it would gut a $4.3 billion industry and eliminate over 50,000 jobs. Supporters say it’s about protecting youth and public safety. Critics say it’s old-school prohibition in disguise. “This bill doesn’t regulate—it eradicates,” said Jim Higdon, co-founder of Cornbread Hemp, in an interview with MySA. Veterans’ groups have also spoken out, calling the bill an attack on safe, opioid-free alternatives for managing chronic pain and PTSD. The Texas Hemp Business Council called the move “devastating,” and warned it will drive consumers to the unregulated market. All eyes are now on Governor Abbott—and the industry isn’t backing
kratom hits the mat again
Yet another death quickly blamed on kratom has proven to have no confirmed connection. When pro wrestling legend Sabu died on May 11, 2025, rumors spread that the herbal supplement played a role. The claim came from fellow wrestler Joey Janela, who initially said Sabu took kratom to manage pain before their final match. He later admitted the comment was exaggerated “to add to the lore.”
Sabu’s longtime friend Rob Van Dam, a vocal kratom advocate, was more direct: “It had nothing to do with him dying three weeks later.” No toxicology report or o cial cause of death has been released, and no medical evidence links kratom to the case. Like other stories before it, the claim spread fast online—driven more by speculation than fact. For now, those closest to Sabu say the focus should be on his legacy, not another baseless kratom panic.
Supplemental Misconduct: Kratom and Dentention
Public health agencies from the UK to Canada continue to confirm: no connection exists. While vaping isn’t risk-free, equating it with severe, unproven outcomes only distracts from real harmreduction e orts and fuels misinformation.
Florida Man strikes again! After pulling a stunt that has all of us cringing, a Florida high school coach is learning the hard way that kratom and classrooms don’t mix. Terry Kennedy, 47, turned himself in after giving a student two doses of a kratom-based supplement—violating Florida’s newly updated Kratom Consumer Protection Act. The student was hospitalized with elevated vitals, and Kennedy was charged with a second-degree misdemeanor and released on $500 bond. The KCPA, now adopted by 16 states, prohibits giving kratom to anyone under 21. It’s meant to regulate, not ban—but it’s definitely not for show-and-tell. Silly rabbit, Trix are for kids, not kratom.
Matt Zorn: Beat
The Natural Selection
MJ Arsenal’s Alpine Series brings together sleek borosilicate glass and milled black walnut for a line that feels as good as it looks.With black walnut accents and clean glass lines, these pieces blend form and function—built to be used, and begging to be touched. See more in the Quest 4 the Best on Page 95.
LISTEN.
Get Your Ears Lit
Industry Insights
In-depth Discussion
Hard-Hitting Topics
just organics
The Brains Behind Stash Kings Sound O
After a brief pilot run last summer and fall, we are excited to announce the return of the HQ podcast series, an entire audio channel dedicated to the issues, products and cultural developments that matter to you most. Tune in each week for hot takes, nuanced insights, the latest industry developments, and unpredictably entertaining conversations. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll watch an hour of your workday go by—and you’ll come out smarter on the other side.
Scan the QR to start listening today!
Hemp has always been a plant of purpose—once prized for rope and textiles, now fueling a fast-growing cannabinoid market shaped by the 2018 Farm Bill. What started with cautious optimism has evolved into a multi-billiondollar space where passion meets entrepreneurship. We spoke with Logan, founder of Just Organics, about growing his wholesale company into a trusted brand—and expanding it with a retail line, Stash Kings. Launched by a close-knit group of friends in an already crowded market, the business has flourished through persistence, strategic growth, and a foundation of strong relationships.
Can you start by telling us a little bit about yourself and what you do?
My name is Logan and I’m one of the owners of Just Organics. Just Organics is our wholesale business— that’s our bread and butter, but we recently launched a brand called Stash Kings. We have a full lineup of hemp products from packaged flower, shatter, and live resin. We’re also launching packaged edibles and vapes soon, which should be out by the time this article is printed. We’re just trying to diversify and move a little more into branded retail products.
What was the drive to start Stash Kings?
We wanted to take more control over the vertical integration. When you’re selling to someone who’s selling to someone else, you lose control. If we’re selling directly to shops and retail, we have more control over the whole process. It’s important for us to provide a great product to our customers, and by having more control over the process we can do that. We started Stash Kings at the beginning of this year, and it’s been going really well so far.
What challenges have you faced with launching the new brand?
I would say it’s a pretty saturated market, so competition is pretty tough. Sometimes it feels like we’re a little late to the game, but we do have advantages as wholesale distributors that other people might not have. We’re able to have better Continued on
Trade Show Roundup
Las Vegas, NV
Convention Center
3150 Paradise Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Begins: 7/23/25
Ends: 7/26/25
CHAMPS Trade Shows
Las Vegas, NV
Convention Center
3150 Paradise Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
ASD Market Week
Houston, TX
NRG Center 1 NRG Park
Houston, TX 77054
Begins: 8/3/2025
Ends: 8/6/2025
Begins: 8/7/25
Ends: 8/9/25
Alternative Product Expo
Las Vegas, NV
Convention Center
3150 Paradise Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Safety Meeting, Cont.
pricing power and can leverage our existing business relationships. I’m very proud of our team’s strong work ethic and the strong network we’ve built. It helps that my business partner is a really talented salesperson.
What makes Stash Kings stand out from the competition?
What separates us from our competitors is our price, consistency, quality, and reliability. Because of our volume and the fact that we’re vertically integrated, we don’t rely on anyone else. That gives us more pricing power and control over quality. We’ve been working hard for years, and that work ethic really shows.
What products are performing best right now?
Packaged flower is our top seller. We also have packaged shatter and live batter, which are products that most other brands don’t carry. We’re pumped for our lineup of edibles and vapes to come out soon.
Ends: 10/15/25
The BIG Industry Show Begins: 10/14/25
About Us:
Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to scale, a retailer sourcing the next big product, or an investor searching for emerging trends, MJBizCon is the definitive B2B cannabis conference and expo. With 1,000+ exhibitors, 100+ industry speakers, and 20,000+ cannabis professionals in attendance, this is where innovation meets opportunity — all under one roof in Las Vegas.
@MJBizDaily
Do you have any fun stories or success moments that stand out to you?
I guess just how big the industry’s gotten. My business partner lives in Colombia, and even there, he runs into people connected to the hemp industry. Any city we go to, we meet people who are somehow in the industry. It’s kind of cool—it feels like it’s gotten too big to fail. Even with states trying to change laws or ban things, the momentum is too strong now.
What’s the best way for people to work with you?
They can find us at industry trade shows. We’ll be at all the upcoming ones. Otherwise, people can go to our websites: justorganicshemp.com and stashkings.com.
Anything else you’d want readers to know?
We’re a small company—just a group of friends really— but we’re growing rapidly. It’s been an interesting journey. We’re outgrowing what a small group can handle and transitioning into becoming something much more substantial. We’ve had a lot of success so far, and we’re excited for the future.
JULY 23RD - 26TH
MJ ARSENAL
LAW, HEALING &
Laury Lucien’s Sacred Calling:
Bringing Mindfulness and Equity to the Cannabis Space LEGACY
By Emily Long
As an attorney, professor, entrepreneur, and plant healer, Laury Lucien wears many hats. No matter her role, it’s immediately evident that Laury brings her intentionality, spirituality, and deep love of the natural world into everything she does. “I’m an attorney by training and teacher by nature,” she says, proudly bringing education and learning into every facet of her work. Whether she’s working with entrepreneurial clients or university students, she is deeply relationshiporiented and seeks to empower others by sharing both systemic knowledge and tapping into inner wisdom.
Currently, she is a professor of cannabis law at Suffolk University Law School, where she teaches students how to be conscious attorneys who live balanced lives. Additionally, she teaches various business classes at Clark University about social responsibility and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to “bring awareness and love into everything they do, including starting their companies.” As a big-picture, systemic thinker, Laury encourages her students to engage in group economics.
“Can you find ways to help other people as you expand?” she asks.
In addition to her involvement in university education, Laury is an educator and teacher in less traditional modalities as well. Growing up in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, she learned about plant medicine from a young age. “Plants are conscious beings,” she says. “They’re very sacred. They come here with a purpose to help us heal and expand our consciousness. They’re our family.” Now, she’s coming full circle as she studies to become an “ayahuasca mama” in Putumayo, Colombia, using this powerful plant medicine to unlock spiritual awakenings and breakthroughs. Laury’s journey with ayahuasca has only reinforced her conviction that plants are here as tools to help us heal, not to be extracted for business.
“We live in an industry that promotes overconsumption in so many ways,” Laury says. “But this is medicine—you take it until you’re well.” Despite the importance of balanced and mindful consumption, the nature of the industry and capitalism as a whole often promotes imbalance and overconsumption. When it comes to marijuana and all plant medicine, Laury encourages us all to ask ourselves why we’re consuming and what it’s doing for us. “Is it just to escape reality?” she asks. “If so, that’s totally okay, but you should understand that’s what you’re doing and work over time to integrate more balance.”
Laury hasn’t always worked in plant healing, though. In fact, after studying
Continued on Page 44
PLANTS ARE CONSCIOUS BEINGS. THEY’RE VERY SACRED. THEY COME HERE WITH A PURPOSE TO HELP US HEAL AND EXPAND OUR CONSCIOUSNESS. THEY’RE OUR FAMILY.
-Laury Lucien
Do you know a powerhouse woman making waves in the cannabis industry? Whether she’s leading, innovating, advocating, or inspiring, we want to hear her story!
Our Women in Cannabis spotlight celebrates the trailblazers, changemakers, and unsung heroes shaping the future of the industry. Nominate someone who deserves the recognition—because their work deserves to be seen!
Submit your nomination now! Scan the QR code to share their story.
biology in college and then going to law school, she started her career as a corporate healthcare attorney, managing mergers and acquisitions for pharmaceutical companies. “As you can imagine, I did lots of licensing work across states,” she says. “I became very skilled at navigating heavily regulated industries.”
It was precisely this skill that brought her into cannabis law and consulting. “Marijuana is at the intersection of the laws of nature and the laws of humans,” Laury says. “As a plant, [cannabis] is governed by the laws of nature, but human beings enact laws to regulate these natural laws.” Through this lens, she has helped a lot of cannabis entrepreneurs navigate the regulatory landscape. Her first consulting client, Lowkey Dispensary, was founded by husband-and-wife duo Jeff and Laura Similien in Dorchester, Massachusetts. In addition to selling premium cannabis products, Lowkey Dispensary also takes a social justice stance, arguing for the importance of social equity for Black and Brown communities in the cannabis space. As a system-oriented person, Laury works with her clients holistically to not only become successful business people but also to understand their role in the broader socio-political network and give back to their local communities.
This story isn’t over.
Laury Lucien’s impact extends beyond the classroom and boardroom. Discover how she’s championing social equity with The Heritage Club, developing an indigenous cannabis tea line, and navigating the challenges of being a Black woman in the industry. Scan to continue.
ORDINARY Anything but
By Matt Weeks
Exotic Soda Co.: A Business Built on B-Side Beverages
and Borderline Insanity
If you’ve ever had a Crush Cream Soda, there’s a good chance it’s thanks to Kyle Ferrando. The man behind Exotic Soda Co. started at the bottom of the counterculture industry, moving up from selling wax in parking lots to running a 20x20-foot booth at Champs. Along the way, he’s built a glass studio in his garage and started an e-nail company—all of it based on an approach to business that’s either absolute genius or incredibly naive, depending on how you look at it.
Spoiler alert: It appears to be the former over the latter.
The School for Bad Kids
Exotic Soda got its start by accident. It began when Ferrando’s glass company—the 710 Store—posted a picture of
Continued on Page 52
a piece modeled after a can of Cactus Cooler, a citrusy orangepineapple soda only available in the Southwest. But instead of fixating on the glasswork, smoke shop owners were more curious about the soda itself. Many reached out asking if Ferrando could send them a few cans.
When an old friend from Canada asked for a case, Ferrando proposed a trade—he’d send
People were going crazy. They’re like,
‘I’ll give you 100 bucks for the case! I’ll give you $140 for the case!’ So, we sell the case, and everyone’s still hitting me up with, ‘Can you get more of these? Can you keep doing this?’
Cactus Cooler and, in return, get a regional delicacy from Canada. A short time later, a case of Crush Cream Soda landed on his doorstep. When a photo of a second unfamiliar soda hit Ferrando’s page, shop owners began a bidding war in the comments.
“People were going crazy. They’re like, ‘I’ll give you 100 bucks for the case! I’ll give you $140 for the case!’ So, we sell the case, and everyone’s still hitting me up with, ‘Can you get more of these? Can you keep doing this?’” Ferrando said. “And I just happened to go to a school for bad kids toward the border of Mexico that was full of international people. My one roommate was Japanese, and my other two roommates were from Korea. I had other friends from Mexico and all over. I had this network all across the world, so I hit the streets.”
I was living broke for quite some time, doing it, dumping every bit of money I made back into it, until COVID. That was a perfect storm for us, because to be considered an essential business, you had to carry food. . .
Using his connections and a natural knack for business (one tip: “I often find that $100 is much better than Rosetta Stone. You’ll see that people speak English very fast for $100.”), Ferrando began building his international import company.
It started slow. Many smoke shops felt wary about stocking food and drinks. Then COVID hit—and Exotic Soda exploded.
“I was living broke for quite some time, doing it, dumping every bit of money I made back into it, until COVID. That was a perfect storm for us, because to be considered an essential business, you had to carry food and well…” he said. “Before that, nobody wanted food because they don’t know it, and you only make 50 cents off a can. But to get their essential business inspections, everybody rushed to get Exotic Soda setups in their stores.”
The story doesn’t end here.
The soda story got him in the door— but Ferrando’s real edge is what came next. Overseas suppliers. Zero-risk deals. Free replacements. And a sales philosophy that flips the script on the entire industry.
The wildest part of the story isn’t how Exotic Soda started—it’s how it works.
Scan the QR code to read the rest.
THE TROUBLE WITH KRATOM
A New Wave of Attacks & the Emerging Industry Divide
Kratom has had its share of critics over the years, but the past few months have marked a distinct escalation. Following a nonbinding resolution out of Tennessee calling for a statewide ban, the rhetoric around kratom—particularly its derivatives—has intensified. What began as a legislative trend quickly ballooned into a broader conversation about public health, moral panic, and the changing nature of consumer protection. In the process, one compound has become a lightning rod: 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7OH.
A minor alkaloid found naturally in kratom leaf, 7OH has recently gained traction as a synthesized product in the smoke shop space. It’s a top seller.
It’s also the flashpoint for growing tension between advocates of plant-based wellness and those calling for tighter regulation—or outright bans. The stakes are high: if 7OH is seen as synonymous with kratom, the entire category could face blowback. If it’s treated as a distinct, regulated product, it might represent a new chapter in harm reduction.
At HQ, we don’t shy away from controversy, but we also don’t exist to tear down legitimate players in the industry. We chose instead to invite both perspectives to weigh in—those calling for caution, and those advocating for a clearer understanding of what 7OH is and what role it plays. You’ll find both views on the following pages. The conversation may be uncomfortable, but it’s one the industry needs to have.
Two views. One hot-button issue. Flip to page 56 for the big picture.
TROUBLE BREWING IN TENNESSEE & BEYOND
Kratom's Uncertain Future: Another Backlash is Building. Is 7OH the Culprit?
By Matt Weeks
When both chambers of Tennessee’s legislature voted in April in favor of a nonbinding resolution to ban kratom, it did more than signal that residents should stock up on the herb while they can. It notched a win for a new kind of healthcare debate—one that could shape the conversation around smoke shop staples for the foreseeable future.
Like many other states, Tennessee had adopted a series of laws prior to 2024 that regulated kratom in more traditional ways: they banned synthetic versions and restricted sales to those over 21. But the last year has produced a flurry of harsh bills aimed at eradicating the herb. The Volunteer State’s resolution hews closer to laws in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, and Wisconsin that ban kratom outright, due to what lawmakers claim is its potential to do harm. But what’s different about the new bills coming out of places like Tennessee isn’t their outcome—it’s the salesmanship.
Nearly every new anti-kratom proposal in the last year has been tied to the death of a young person—a tragedy prohibitionists claim was caused by kratom. The fact that the data doesn’t support these stories isn’t just beside the point, however. Moving past the numbers is the point.
For America, science is taking a backseat to emotions in a new way; kratom bans are simply another test case. If the counterculture industry hopes to survive, it will need to master the politics of emotional truths.
A Changing Approach to Healthcare
When science skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was confirmed to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, it reflected a long-coming change in the country’s healthcare discussion. It should be noted that many in this space were excited at his inclusion in the new administration’s cabinet. Some likely voted red simply because of his last-minute addition to the MAGA ranks. There are plenty of reasons for this. As a proponent of natural medicine, the junior Kennedy has been a long-time advocate of cannabis legalization and opponent of Big Pharma’s myriad missteps and overreaches. However, it’s a mixed bag at best. As a proud graduate of 12-step recovery programs and fierce advocate of natural remedies, it could be argued that his view of healthcare comes as much from faith and instinct as cold data, and that’s a double-edged sword in the current climate.
Though practitioners may howl at Kennedy’s ascension, his subjective approach to scientific inquiry squares with how most Americans approach the topic. After fumbling through the COVID pandemic, the country lost interest in the Anthony Fauci school of wait-andsee doctoring. It didn’t help that establishment
When someone has a bad experience with kratom, and you ask what they had and they say, ‘I took 7,’ well, that’s not kratom. Yet, for many legislators who listen to these stories, they hear the word ‘kratom’ and all nuance gets lost.
Continued on Page 58
AN ARGUMENT FOR 7OH: THE EXPERTS WEIGH IN
A Thoughtful & Measured Defense of the Industry's Hottest Selling Product
By Aya Datura
There’s no question that 7OH, the minor alkaloid of the kratom plant, has sparked massive controversy and consternation in the space. It stands to reason. Despite this industry’s love affair with extracts and concentrates of all varieties, there is still an underlying distrust of the processed and synthesized, a natural inclination to trust botany over pharmaceuticals.
The industry is virtually split on what to do with the compound. Its detractors cite its alleged potency as a danger not only to consumers, but to kratom’s very legality. Its proponents, on the other hand, have a very different take.
To explore this perspective, we spoke with Jeff Smith, PhD, Media Director of the Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust (HART). HART was formed in 2023 to provide education to consumers about the safety and efficacy of holistic alternative recovery solutions and to advocate before Congress and state legislatures to promote responsible regulations of plant-based recovery products. Not surprisingly to anyone who’s spent time as an entrepreneur in this niche industry, Jeff emphasizes responsible use and regulation over alarmism—and insists that the potential harm reduction offered by the product far outweighs the alleged pitfalls.
Understanding 7OH: More Than a Single Story
7OH, or 7-hydroxymitragynine, is a naturally occurring alkaloid in kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) as well as a metabolite of another primary alkaloid, mitragynine. When consumed, mitragynine can convert to 7OH in the human body, contributing to its effects. While critics have expressed concerns over its potency, Jeff emphasized the importance of context.
“7OH is a metabolite of mitragynine, which means that when you ingest mitragynine, your liver metabolizes it… if you take a hundred milligrams of mitragynine, you’re probably getting around 25 milligrams of 7OH,” he explained. He further noted that even those who only consume kratom leaf are naturally exposed to 7OH through this metabolic process.
A Distinct Product, Not Standard Kratom
One of the most significant concerns with 7OH is that it is often treated as simply another form of kratom. But many kratom advocates see this as a dangerous mischaracterization. Their primary concern is that by associating 7OH with kratom, the compound’s risks—whether real or perceived— could harm the plant’s public perception and even lead to regulatory bans affecting all kratom products.
Continued on Page 58
We’ve seen 7OH used around half a billion times globally without any documented deaths, without serious hospitalizations, and without any significant adverse events . . . This is a product that can help people.
most-affected areas can’t stand it. Why?
Matthew Lowe, executive director of the Global Kratom Coalition, says that it all comes down to 7OH—an alkaloid found naturally in kratom that has recently been synthesized in labs.
“In kratom leaf, 7OH occurs in such small amounts, about half a percent, that it’s not a concern. But when you amplify it by a hundred times, it’s 30 times more potent than morphine. When that’s put on the market, it’s really just an unapproved new drug. It’s a novel product marketed to treat opioid disorder and chronic pain, so you’ve got a real issue where a consumer can walk into a smoke shop and pick up kratom leaf, with a known alkaloid profile, or . . . a semi-synthetic opioid more potent than morphine,” he said.
This story isn't over.
As lawmakers react to emotional testimonies over scientific evidence, the industry faces a critical choice: regulate itself or risk losing it all. Scan the code to read what’s next.
that strong shouldn’t be put in the hands of everyday consumers.
However, according to Jeff, this narrative doesn’t align with the real-world data. “We’ve seen 7OH used around half a billion times globally without any documented deaths, without serious hospitalizations, and without any significant adverse events,” he emphasized.
This aligns with the findings of the Henningfield Science Update (2021), which concluded that kratom—including 7OH—has a low potential for abuse and is significantly safer than opioids. Jeff emphasized that while potency can be a factor in risk, it does not automatically equate to harm.
As opioid deaths rise, some see 7OH as a safer option. Advocates push for clear labels and smart regulation—arguing it could help, not harm. Scan the QR for more.
The debate continues online.
JULY 23RD - 26TH
LET'S TALK ABOUT GHOSTING
The Art of Burning Bridges Before You Build Them
By Annie Holman
Let’s talk about “ghosting.” No, not the kind where your Tinder date disappears into the ether (though, ouch). We’re talking about the new workplace epidemic: vanishing without a trace in the middle of a business conversation. Yes, it’s a thing now. And yes, it’s as lame as it sounds.
In the modern workplace, communication isn’t just a “niceto-have” soft skill—it’s the actual backbone of every successful professional relationship. But apparently, some folks missed that memo (or, more likely, just didn’t reply to it). Suddenly, it’s totally normal to just . . . stop responding. No explanation. No closure. Just poof. Wrong.
Let’s be clear: ghosting isn’t just a harmless side effect of being “super busy” or “overwhelmed.” Nope. It’s not your calendar’s fault. No. It’s not Mercury in retrograde. Never. It’s just plain unprofessional. Google that. When you ignore emails,
calls, or text messages—which for the record makes me CRAZY— especially after you’ve already engaged—it’s basically telling the other person, “Your time and effort? Meh.” Whatever. No, not whatever. In any industry, that’s not just disappointing. It’s damaging. Like, “watch your reputation slowly circle the drain,” damaging. It will catch up with you, this I promise. The "Text Ghost" is not an honor anyone should be aiming for.
When Silence Isn’t Golden
Every business, from Fortune 500s to your cousin’s Etsy shop, relies on clear, timely communication. When professionals ghost each other—be it a vendor, a job candidate, a client, or a potential partner—confusion reigns. Projects stall. Deals die. Trust? Gone. All of it. And if you think this only affects the person you ghosted, think again. Over time, it chips away at your own credibility and your company’s reputation. But hey, at least you saved yourself the
Let’s be clear: ghosting isn’t just a harmless side effect of being “super busy” or “overwhelmed.” Nope. It’s not your calendar’s fault. No. It’s not Mercury in retrograde. Never. It’s just plain unprofessional. Google that.
Continued on Page 66
30 seconds it would’ve taken to type, “Thanks, but we’re going in another direction.” Really, time it. 30 seconds.
It’s funny (not really) how often people say they want to be taken seriously in business. “I’m building my network!” “I want to be seen as a pro!” Cool, man. But did you miss the 100 times your parents said, “Actions speak louder than words”? If you want to be seen as credible and trustworthy, you have to actually be credible and trustworthy. Yes, you really do. That means communicating, being responsive, and—brace yourself—being accountable. This isn’t Advanced Business Theory. It’s Business 101.
Relationships
Are Everything: And Nothing Says ‘Professional’ Like Dropping O the Face of the Earth
Here’s a wild idea: business is about relationships. Shocking, I know. Whether you’re negotiating a contract, collaborating on a project, or just schmoozing at a networking event, open and honest communication is what separates the pros from the amateurs. Ghosting? It leaves people wondering what went wrong, if they made a mistake, or if you were abducted by aliens (and some of you should be). It creates uncertainty and distrust. And honestly, who needs more of that? Not me. Don’t ghost me; I keep track, and so should you.
Now, imagine the alternative: clear, timely communication. Imagine all the people. Even a quick, “Thanks
for your time, but we’re passing,” preserves goodwill and keeps the door open for future opportunities. It shows respect, maturity, and a commitment to building real professional relationships. In other words: grow up.
Accountability and Professionalism: Not
Included in the Ghoster’s Handbook
Responsiveness isn’t just about replying to messages before they turn into digital fossils. It’s about being accountable for your commitments and being transparent about your
If you want to be seen as credible and trustworthy, you have to actually be credible and Yes,trustworthy. you really do. That means beingcommunicating, and—braceresponsive, yourself—being accountable.
intentions. Let’s repeat that: It’s about being accountable for your commitments and being transparent about your intentions. If things change, say so. If you’re not interested, say so. If you need more time, say so. It’s not rocket science, people. Say so. These tiny acts of professionalism go a long way in building trust and credibility.
Duh.
Raising Expectations: Because “Vanishing” Isn’t a Career Path
And here’s the kicker, serial ghosters: expectations for professionalism are rising everywhere. Truth. Those who embrace open communication and relationship-building? They’ll thrive. Those who keep ghosting and dodging accountability? They’ll be left behind (and this I would like to see, I have a list.)
And remember: business isn’t a magic act. Disappearing doesn’t make you a star—it just makes you hard to work with. So let’s raise the bar. Let’s make ghosting a relic of the past— right next to reply-all email chains. Let’s show the world we’re serious, reliable, and ready to do business like grown-ups. Because at the end of the day, communication isn’t just good manners—it’s good business. Game on, folks. You can be a ghost for Halloween, I support you.
Annie Holman is a seasoned marketing and design professional with over 30 years of experience in graphic design, social media, digital marketing and public relations. She is also a passionate creative writer. Her journey into the cannabis industry began in 2015 when she co-founded Derby Bakery, a medical cannabis edibles company that earned accolades such as the “Emerald Cup – Best Edibles” honors and “Edibles List – Best of Awards.” , In 2016 to 2024, Holman was the founder and CEO of The Galley, a cannabis co-manufacturing and distribution facility in Santa Rosa, California.
By Joe Reefer
The Digital TAKEOVER
V3: Can AI Save You Before it Destroys Us?
AWith the right inputs, you can use AI tools to develop marketing materials, store and organize customer data, or help you devise a long-term plan for your business. In some cases, you can even use these platforms without ever spending a dime.
rtificial intelligence (AI) is the next big innovation in tech. Countless apps, programs, and platforms have sprung up over the past few years, and they’re capable of doing just about anything you could imagine—from writing stories in the style of your favorite author to creating realistic videos and music. Our own Creative Director here at HQ has been known to use ChatGPT and Tensor. art to generate original artwork for layouts when available photos fall short. Don’t tell anyone, though; it would absolutely ruin his reputation.
But there’s a lot that AI can do for your head shop or vape store, too. With the right inputs, you can use AI tools to develop marketing materials, store and organize customer data, or help you devise a long-term plan for your business. In some cases, you can even use these platforms without ever spending a dime.
Using AI for Your Business Needs
Every AI platform is different. Even if two platforms do offer the same functionality, such as image generation, the results could be wildly
different from one another. That’s why it’s so important to find the AI tools that meet your business needs.
ChatGPT
One of the most popular AI platforms to date, ChatGPT has a free, albeit limited, version available. Depending on your exact needs, however, the free version might provide more than enough functionality.
ChatGPT really excels in areas like writing, customer service, and education. It can generate text, provide answers to frequently asked questions, and research information like terpene profiles, product cleaning instructions, and local regulations. Advanced users can utilize ChatGPT for inventory management, staff onboarding, and more.
Midjourney
Generally meant for creating graphics and visuals, Midjourney offers subscription plans starting at $10 per month. It’s a great option when creating posters, t-shirts, stickers, product packaging mockups, logo designs, and images for social media.
Continued on Page 74
It’s not over.
AI can do a lot for your shop, but only if you know how to talk to it. Want to turn vague, useless answers into powerful business insights?
It’s all about the right prompts.
Scan the QR code for expert tips on using AI effectively, from crafting clear instructions to chaining prompts for perfect results.
A FRAGMENTED LANDSCAPE
Understanding the di erences in the markets across states is fundamental for a business owner who wants to operate across borders.
The cannabis and hemp industry can be considered chaotic. No two states are the same. The regulations and compliance framework can be confusing because of the differences between full legalization and outright bans. There is also a gap between client expectations and state laws, which further complicates business operations and marketing. What sells legally in Oregon might get pulled from shelves in Texas, or worse, get you arrested.
Understanding the differences in the markets across states is fundamental for a business owner who wants to operate across borders. We will take a look at this chaotic and fragmented reality and how to ensure you survive and grow.
Fifty States, Fifty Markets: How Local Laws Create a National Headache
By Karen Maina
Legal Complications
Understanding the nuances between federal oversight and state-specific laws is critical for anyone selling or distributing in this space, and it’s only getting more complicated.
The legal framework for cannabis and hemp is a gray area. The consumer demand is growing; however, the regulations are not clear-cut. While there is hope that cannabis will be descheduled, it remains a Schedule 1 substance at the federal level, while hemp is technically legal.
The lines become even more blurred when it comes to hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8, Delta-10, and HHC. One state allows hemp in all its varieties, while another bans it.
“The compliance nuance around minor cannabinoids surprised me the most when scaling across states,” says Alexi Schaller, the Founder & Ceo of Bloom. “Certain markets demand explicit declarations for compounds like CBN and CBC, even in trace quantities. Regulatory misalignment in those cases required reengineering formulas and packaging protocols for specific states, adding approximately eight weeks per SKU launch cycle.”
This sentiment is echoed by Arthur Abramov, the owner of StashMaster “The legal differences are not just found across states but also across individual regulatory bodies. The enforcement laws shift based on leadership. He emphasises, “The most surprising compliance challenge wasn’t from multi-state expansion (we’re focused on mastering our
Brooklyn operation first) but navigating the rapid evolution of New York’s regulations. At some point, we had to completely redesign our product labeling system three times in six months as requirements shifted.”
Fifty Markets, Fifty Hustles
How a business in cannabis and hemp does its marketing, product offering, operations, taxation, and licensing differs in every state.
Jayant Surana, Marketing Manager, Everyday Delta, gives a glimpse into this reality. “We operate in 17 states. And every single one requires a different SKU map,” he explains. “The most surprising challenge? California and Minnesota both require THC thresholds, but calculate per serving and per container in opposite ways. That one mix-up cost us 9,200 packages and a threeweek halt in two key markets.“
Let’s look at some key corners of the country: the West, the Midwest, the South, and the Northeast.
The Western market has stringent and wellestablished hemp laws. Retailers must ensure that the products do not contain any controlled substances, and imported hemp components must be tested in the U.S. In some states, like New York, smoke shops are prohibited from selling cannabinoid hemp products intended for smoking without a retail license through the state’s AdultUse Cannabis Program.
The Midwest is a patchwork of regulations. In Illinois, some local laws have impacted the sales of hemp even though it is fully legalized. For example, Chiga has bans on hemp sales in certain areas, which have affected smoke shop operations. In addition, Nebraska is considering a ban on hempbased THC products, which could affect 300 businesses in the state.
The South has a more conservative approach to hemp regulations. In Texas, hemp-derived products like Delta-8 THC remain in a legal gray area. Recent legislative efforts, such as Senate Bill 3, aim to ban most edible and smokable THC products, with exceptions for certain beverages. Additionally, Texas prohibits the manufacturing or processing of consumable hemp products for smoking, which has a significant impact on smoke shop inventories.
The Northeast is moving toward broader legalization, but execution challenges are far from over. In New York, smoke shops must obtain a retail license to sell cannabinoid hemp products intended for smoking. New Jersey has implemented a law
Continued on Page 80
LEVEL UP ALTERNATIVE LIFESTYLE BRANDS AT MJBIZCON
DEC. 2-5, 2025 | MJBizCon | Las Vegas
The Culture+ Neighborhood at MJBizCon is where counterculture thrives.
Join together with manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, product developers, press, influencers and advocates to support the growth of smoke, paraphernalia, hemp/CBD, functional mushrooms and alternative lifestyle businesses.
WANT TO ATTEND THE SHOW? INTERESTED IN EXHIBITING?
requiring retailers to have a cannabis license to sell hemp products, which further complicates a smokeshop’s business strategy.
The Customer Experience Gap
Customer experience is one of the most important aspects of any business; it is also the biggest challenge when operating in a fragmented industry. Consumers expect consistent, informed, and seamless buying experiences, regardless of the state. How do you manage customer expectations within these legal limits?
A good example is online shoppers may place an order for a hemp-derived product like Delta-10 or THCV only to learn it can’t legally ship to their state,
even though hemp is federally legal. These restrictions make the shopping experience unpredictable and may damage brand trust when orders are canceled post-purchase.
Some states allow hemp-derived THC products as long as they stay under 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. That’s created a boom in “legal” edibles with real intoxicating effects. Smoke shop owners are left explaining why these potent products are technically legal, while still facing suspicion from law enforcement or local regulators.
Is there hope? How can business owners respond to the challenges that this fragmented reality is causing?
If you think the chaos ends here, think again.
The fractured reality of selling hemp and cannabis stretches across 50 states—each with its own maze of rules, contradictions, and compliance nightmares.
What’s legal today could be banned tomorrow, and what’s compliant in one state could mean fines in another. How can you protect your brand and keep profits rolling?
Scan the QR code to learn more.
YOU’RE WORTH IT — AND SO IS YOUR PRICING
Strategies for Keeping Your Customers in a World of Shrinking Margins
You can win. The price of your products are flexible. In both directions. So avoid the temptation to drop your prices because it’ll get hard to get them back up again. Instead, you can add value to them by being valuable yourself.
By Jimmy Wohl
“Hey, so these THCA gummies are $40? I saw them at a gas station for, like, $19.”
Are your customers maybe coming at you with statements like this? If so, it must be annoying. Scary, even. You think, if this keeps up, we’ll be out of business real soon. Well, you’re not necessarily wrong. But you’re not screwed either.
Yes, your rent is going up, and price wars are heating up. So how do you keep your businesses thriving in a world of tightening margins?
There are plenty of ways. Here’s how you can protect your bottom line while staying on top of customers’ needs, keeping the bottom line in line with your clientele.
Numbers
Keep a tab on your “fixed” costs like rent, salaries, and insurance while trying to maximize your “variable” costs, which are connected to the products you sell. For example, you can’t change the price of electricity, but you can get more buck for your bong. Make sure to take a close look at what products can help you boost your margin. The ones that can push you beyond parity and turn a significant profit. These products are distinct from margin-killers that you have for sale, which play a role in engaging customers but earn you little cash.
Once you know where you’re making money vs. just moving units, you can devise a sales strategy that puts you over the top.
Lose the Race to the Bottom
In the 1978 film The Wiz, a teenage Michael Jackson, playing the brainless scarecrow, crooned, “You can’t win…you can’t get even, and you can’t get out of the game.” Competing with crappy products from the dregs of Amazon or the convenience mart at Exxon can feel dispiriting, especially when you’ve put so much thought into your establishment. You care. You love these products and what they mean to you and the people who buy them.
But there’s hope. You can win. The price of your products are flexible. In both directions. So avoid the temptation to drop your prices because it’ll get hard to get them back up again. Instead, you can add value to them by being valuable
A microwaved steak is different from the one you order at a fancy restaurant. Even if it’s from the same cow. Become a premier establishment.
yourself. Focus on the experience you provide for your customers. How much something is worth is a perception, and you can create that incredible sales experience.
A microwaved steak is different from the one you order at a fancy restaurant. Even if it’s from the same cow. Become a premier establishment.
Avoid dropping your price when a customer says they can find it somewhere cheaper. That’s a dangerous knee-jerk reaction. Of course, if you believe that your product is unfairly inflated, then maybe you’ll give in to the urge out of guilt. “Ok, ya’ got me! Name your price.” But that’s a failure of imagination. There’s a lot you can do to make it worth keeping your margins alive, and even expanding them.
Continue reading online:
Want to boost your margins without slashing prices? The best strategies are yet to come. Learn how to turn customer objections into sales, create irresistible bundle deals, and build loyalty that keeps customers coming back.
Master the art of pricing with confidence and transform your team into customer service pros who can sell the “why.”
Ready to protect your profits? Scan the code now.
THE SALE, V4 The Art of
By Julia Hamieh
So how does one manipulate their way into sales? Honestly, way too many ways—but most importantly, it must be done in a skillful manner. When manipulating your way into a sale, you must always conceal your true intentions. In the case of sales, the manipulation strategy must remain in the friendship-forming stage—nothing more.
Let’s talk about why manipulation works: a manipulator will use charm, praise, or flattery in order to get the person to lower their defenses and give their trust and loyalty. They also offer help with the intent to gain the person’s full trust.
I know what you’re thinking… why would you manipulate someone just to get a sale out of them? Well, after all, this is an article about the art of sales and its many devious strategies. So have a seat, grab a coffee, and let me walk you through it.
Continued on Page 88
Dark Magic: The Manipulation Approach
Shady, But E ective
When you bring a new product on Consignment, you get a pretty good idea of how well it will perform in the long term. You push it, see how it sells, and start to get a feel for whether it’s a good fit for your audience.
The “Only 3 Left!” Trick
Ah yes, the classic scarcity move. They’re eyeing a hand pipe online and suddenly it says, “Only 1 left!” Panic hits. They click “Buy Now.” Later, they refresh the page… still “1 left.”
Coincidence? Probably not.
This tactic makes customers feel like they’re in a race. The goal is to have your customers override logic with urgency. Your job is to make them feel that the product they are looking at is a product everyone wants.
The “Only 3 Left!” Trick
“This deal ends tonight!”
Except it doesn’t. It’ll still be there tomorrow.
This is one of the most uncomplicated tactics, using countdown timers or “limited-time” language that resets every day. It’s artificial urgency, designed to make customers act fast—which means no time to think about it.
Julia Hamieh is the Marketing & Sales Manager for Sig Distro, the industry’s leading East Coast distribution company. As part of a forward-thinking leadership team, she plays a key role in marketing, sales, and strategic growth.
With a sharp eye for industry trends and a passion for innovation, Julia is helping shape the future of the business in a fast-moving market.
Bait and Switch
You create an ad for a super cheap deal—let’s say a $50 hand-blown water pipe. Sounds like a steal, right?
A customer will call in or show up, and suddenly the $50 version is “sold out,” but you’ve got this much better one for $150. Convenient.
Emotional Pressure: Guilt, Fear, and All That Fun Stu
Ever had a salesperson say something like, “Well, if you care about your family’s safety…” right before they try to sell you a home security system?
That’s emotional manipulation. You tap into the customer’s feelings—especially fear or guilt—to push them toward a yes. It works because we, as humans, aren’t robots. It’s also kind of messed up when it’s used this way, but again, this is all about devious strategies.
This article continues online.
The second half exposes the tactics that make average products look premium, how fake popularity drives real sales, and why your hesitation might be used against you.
We’re pulling back the curtain on highend illusions, guilt-based pitches, and the psychology behind price tricks— plus giving you a few tools to see the game for what it is.
Glitter Bomb
Mendo Breath
Purple Tesla Orange Creamsicle Guavanade
Tropicana Cherries
Pulsar Hot Knife Box
Precision loading meets pocket-sized convenience.
The Pulsar Hot Knife Box is a compact, dual-purpose accessory designed for convenience and portability. This 2-in-1 tool features a heated ceramic tip for clean, precise loading of concentrates, along with a built-in ceramiclined container for secure storage. The magnetic lid keeps everything neatly enclosed, making it easy to stash or travel with. A single-button interface allows for manual heating or an automatic 15-second cycle, supported by an LED light ring for user feedback. With a 650mAh battery and USB-C charging, it offers dependable performance between charges. Constructed with an aluminum alloy body and magnetic connections, the build feels solid and streamlined. For retailers, the Hot Knife Box offers a practical, no-fuss solution for concentrate users looking for an all-in-one loading and storage device.
QUEST
Orale Bomb Size Cones
When king size isn’t quite big enough.
For customers who like their cones a little louder and a lot larger, the Orale! Bomb Size Cones bring the party. Distributed by Black Ball Corp., these 122mm cones (with a 30mm filter) are made for big sessions and bold statements. Available in bleached, unbleached, and bioorganic hemp varieties, they offer options for every kind of smoker. Each cone is hand-rolled for consistency and comes in 3- or 12-pack displays—easy to stock and easy to sell. Whether your customers are rolling deep or just prefer a little extra room, these oversized cones deliver. As part of The Original Cones® lineup, they’ve got name recognition, solid construction, and the kind of shelf presence that turns heads. Definitely not your average pre-roll.
4 the Best
Syke Society Mushroom
Chocolate
Bars
Legal shrooms, legit buzz, and exquisite flavor.
Syke Society’s mushroom chocolate bars walk the line—legally and experientially. Made with a proprietary extract from a rare, ancient species of magic mushrooms, these bars contain no psilocybin or psilocin, but still deliver a tangible, elevated buzz that’s catching attention in the functional mushroom space. No sketchy synthetics, no Amanita, no cannabinoids—just clean ingredients, lab-tested formulation, and a taste that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Options like Cozmik Cookyz & Cream, MilkyWayz
15, and Chocolate Dipped Starberries (pictured) add a rich, dessert-inspired twist that backs up the experience with real indulgence. The branding is sharp, the feedback’s strong, and the effects land somewhere between “nice mood boost” and “wait, am I vibing?” For head shops and dispensaries, it’s a fresh way to tap into the legal psychedelic conversation without crossing the line.
Dissim Inverted Lighter
Flip it. Light it. Watch your customers reach for it.
The Dissim Inverted Lighter flips the script on what a pocket lighter can do—literally. Designed for both upright and upside-down use, it’s built for function without sacrificing form. The patented circle grip offers control and comfort, especially when lighting pipes, candles, or anything that requires an awkward angle. A refillable butane chamber, adjustable flame, and visible fuel window keep things practical, while the cast metal body gives it just the right amount of weight. Available in soft flame and dual torch versions, it’s versatile enough for the homebody, the adventurer, and everyone in between. It’s the kind of lighter that doesn’t sit around collecting dust—people pick it up, play with it, and want one for themselves.
If you’re not doing some things that are crazy, then you’re doing the wrong things.
— Larry Page, co-founder of Google
The Alpine Collection
An Eye-Catching Collection from MJ Arsenal That’s Built to Move
The Alpine Series from MJ Arsenal pairs modern glass design with a natural twist—each piece combines durable borosilicate glass with milled black walnut accents for a look that’s both elevated and grounded. The line includes thoughtfully engineered options for both flower and concentrate users, like the Apex Dab Rig with its double uptake recycler and the compact, travel-friendly Steamboat Bubbler. From fullsized water pipes to minimalist chillums, each
Looper Hemp Derived D9 Soda Pop Bold flavor. Fast onset. Zero torch required.
Looper’s D9 Soda Pop brings the buzz in a can—no flame, no waiting, just crack, sip, and vibe. Each 12oz soda is infused with 50mg of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC and flavored like the classics: Grape, Orange, and Pineapple. It’s fully Farm Bill compliant (under 0.3% THC by dry weight), vegan-friendly, and made with organic cane sugar—no weird sweeteners, no synthetic aftertaste. The fast-acting liquid format makes it a go-to for customers who want a quicker onset than edibles without lighting up. With bold branding, legit lab testing, and wide flavor appeal, it’s built to move in smoke shops, dispensaries, and anywhere hemp beverages are gaining ground (we’re looking at you, Minnesota.) For retailers looking to add a little lift to their cooler, Looper is an easy yes.
item delivers solid function with an earthy, tactile finish that stands out in a sea of all-glass gear. The wood accents aren’t just for looks—they add grip, character, and shelf appeal. For retailers, the Alpine Series hits that sweet spot: high-quality construction, great margins, and the kind of design that draws eyes and hands in the display case.
The First 100 Days Of The 2nd Trump Administration Left More Questions than Answers for Medical Cannabis
M any had high hopes for what another term might mean for cannabis. During the 2024 election, Trump expressed support for cannabis rescheduling and patient access, and even said he intended to vote for the legalization measure on the Florida ballot. That last comment was likely a jab at his former Republican ticket rival, Governor Ron DeSantis, who led the campaign against the initiative.
Campaign talk doesn’t always translate into executive action; despite the fanfare, cannabis policy hasn’t just stalled—it has been largely ignored in favor of other priorities. That’s not entirely surprising; after all, the President doesn’t have the power to legalize cannabis or provide tax relief without Congressional action unilaterally. Still, there were plenty of moves Trump could have made in his first 100 days through executive orders and key appointments—unfortunately, nothing favoring medical cannabis.
First 100 Days Recap
APPOINTMENTS
Attorney General – Pam Bondi
Pam Bondi ran a campaign against expanding Florida’s medical cannabis law as State AG. As Florida’s Attorney General, Bondi opposed efforts to expand medical cannabis law and served
By Steph Sherer Founder & Executive Director Americans for Safe Access
on President Trump’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis. That commission rejected evidence suggesting that medical cannabis is associated with reductions in opioid use and mortality and expressed concern that access to cannabis could worsen the Opioid Crisis.
DEA Administrator – Terrance Cole
Terrance Cole has not exactly been a voice of progress. His social media feeds have many comments about the harms of cannabis. During his confirmation hearing, he did not say where he stood on cannabis scheduling but stated that he would make the rescheduling process “one of his first priorities.”
EXECUTIVE ORDERS
So far, none of the 141 Executive Orders issued in Trump’s first 100 days have addressed medical cannabis. That’s despite the fact that he could have:
• Stopped evictions of medical cannabis patients in federal housing
• Allowed VA doctors to recommend cannabis
• Stopped drug testing federal employees for cannabis
Continue reading online for the full picture!
Trump’s campaign promises on cannabis rescheduling sounded hopeful—but his first major appointments told a different story. Now, with Project 2025 positioning itself as a blueprint for federal crackdowns—and with Congressional leaders showing open hostility to reform—the future of medical cannabis has never been more uncertain.
This digital continuation examines how the administration’s rhetoric ostensibly collides with its actions, why “Drug War” language is back in fashion, and what real steps Trump could still take to support patients.
Plus: a call to action for advocates who refuse to let science, compassion, and public opinion be sidelined.
Scan the QR to keep reading!
For over 20 years, Steph Sherer has been at the forefront of medical cannabis advocacy, transforming grassroots activism into policy change. As the founder and Executive Director of Americans for Safe Access (ASA), she has trained over 100,000 advocates, built powerful coalitions, and worked with lawmakers to ensure patient access to cannabis-based medicines. Under her leadership, ASA has secured critical protections for patients, medical professionals, and cannabis programs nationwide. Sherer has also been instrumental in setting cannabis product safety standards, guiding international cannabis rescheduling, and shaping regulatory frameworks that prioritize patients. After years of advancing global medical cannabis policies, she has returned to ASA to lead its “second act,” working to fully integrate cannabis into U.S. healthcare and ensure that patient needs remain at the center of policy discussions.
ANTI-VAPING SCIENTISTS HAVE AN INTEGRITY PROBLEM
Flawed Methods, Faked Images, and the War
The anti-vaping crusade was dealt another serious blow following the retraction of a study in May claiming nicotine “plays a critical role” in the progression of breast cancer. The research could have been significant because it challenged the longstanding conclusion that nicotine is a generally low-risk stimulant. But Nature Communications finally pulled the paper, originally published in January 2021, after “concerns were raised regarding highly similar images”—a diplomatic way of saying the authors fabricated data underlying their results.
Yale psychiatrist Sally Satel put it more bluntly: “Yet another alarmist study re nicotine (read: vaping, pouches, etc.) that is based on bad methodology . . . in this case, worse: FAKE data.” Satel’s reference to “yet another study” highlights the broader issue of lousy science in antivaping research, where biased assumptions, poor experimental design–and sometimes outright fraud–undermine integrity and mislead the public.
Nicotine and breast cancer
By Alli Boughner Vice President American Vapor Manufacturers
on Harm Reduction
Whatever conclusions could have been drawn from these dubious experiments were totally invalidated by the manipulated images.
A troubling pattern
This retraction is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling pattern in anti-vaping research. Many studies in this field suffer from confirmation bias, where researchers appear to design experiments to produce negative outcomes that align with preconceived anti-vaping narratives. For instance, the retracted study ignored the comparative harm reduction of vaping versus combustible tobacco, a welldocumented public health benefit supported by organizations like Public Health England, which estimates vaping to be 95% less harmful than smoking.
mistakes. The urge to attack vaping appears to be warping the ability of some scientists to fairly analyze their data.
Moreover, the retraction underscores the need for standardized protocols in vaping research. Studies examining the effects of vaping should reproduce the behavior of adult vapers as closely as possible in order to understand the impacts, positive or negative, on their health.
Research like this retracted study, where mice were literally injected with tumor cells and exposed to nicotine, doesn’t tell us anything about the realworld risk of vaping. This echoes other debunked studies, such as those linking vaping to “popcorn lung” based on misidentified chemical exposures.
By prioritizing ideological goals over empirical rigor, such research exemplifies bad science, wasting resources and eroding the public’s trust. The retraction of this study should serve as a wake-up call for the scientific community to demand higher standards and transparency in vaping research.
The study examined nicotine’s effect on breast cancer metastasis. However, post-publication scrutiny revealed significant errors. There were critical issues with the experimental design, including assumptions that failed to mimic real-world vaping conditions. Specifically, the study unrealistically exposed cell cultures and sick mice to nicotine, a design that has little to do with how generally healthy adults are exposed through vapor inhalation, rendering the findings largely irrelevant to human health.
The much larger problem was that the study’s data was fake; multiple images included in the paper appear to be duplicates with slight modifications.
Instead, the retracted paper focused on worst-case scenarios, neglecting dose-response relationships critical to toxicological research. Such selective framing fuels public misconceptions and supports restrictive policies that drive adult former smokers back to deadly cigarettes.
The rush to publish anti-vaping studies often bypasses rigorous peer review, as seen in this case. The initial acceptance of the study by Nature Communications, a prestigious journal, suggests a lapse in editorial oversight, possibly driven by the topical allure of vaping-related health scares. Indeed, the only other study to implicate nicotine vaping as a contributor to cancer in humans was retracted in 2023 because it too contained a multitude of inexcusable
Conclusion: accountability a must
The broader implication of this retraction is a call for accountability in science. Anti-vaping research often amplifies risks while ignoring benefits, skewing public perception and policy. Vaping has helped millions reduce or quit smoking, yet flawed studies like this one threaten to undermine its role in tobacco harm reduction.
By prioritizing ideological goals over empirical rigor, such research exemplifies bad science, wasting resources and eroding the public’s trust. The retraction of this study should serve as a wake-up call for the scientific community to demand higher standards and transparency in vaping research.
