BIOACTIVE: Daily Summaries Delivered

Two Cannabis Scientists get Nerdy: Genetics & Plant Chemistry

Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Dr. Anna Schwabe to the Bioactive Podcast for a deep dive into cannabis genetics, cultivar identity, plant chemistry, and the challenges of making sense of cannabis in a rapidly evolving industry. As two cannabis scientists get thoroughly nerdy, they explore the relationship between genetics and chemical expression, why cultivar names matter, and what science can and cannot tell us about predicting cannabis effects. Drawing from years of research in cannabis genomics, chemotypes, and consumer behavior, Anna explains the disconnect between strain names, marketing claims, and actual genetic identity. The conversation examines how genetics, environment, cultivation practices, and post-harvest handling influence the final chemistry of a cannabis product, often making consumer expectations difficult to predict. They also explore the limitations of the indica, sativa, and hybrid framework, discussing why these categories may still serve a purpose for new consumers while highlighting the need for more nuanced approaches to cannabis classification. The discussion dives into terpene science, aroma-based selection, cultivar verification, consumer perception, breeding strategies, and the future of genetic authentication in cannabis. Additionally, Riley and Anna tackle common industry misconceptions, the importance of preserving cannabis history and culture, and how science can help bridge the gap between growers, consumers, researchers, and retailers. Throughout the episode, they emphasize practical ways consumers can make better decisions while exploring the fascinating complexity of cannabis chemistry and genetics. Whether you're a grower, breeder, budtender, researcher, medical patient, or curious consumer, this episode offers valuable insights into how cannabis genetics shape the products we use and the experiences we have. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Podcast Crossover Intro 01:38 New Mom Conference Life 02:32 Cannabis on Social Media 03:59 Schedule III Debate 06:36 Pharma Versus Whole Plant 10:08 Synthetic THC And Isomers 12:26 Terpenes And Aroma Complexity 16:51 When More Is Not Better 19:27 Realistic THC And Terp Limits 22:56 Trust Your Nose Shopping 24:47 Why Blue Dream Varies 25:44 Genetics Registration And Terroir 29:23 Consistency Versus Craft Growing 33:12 Craft Cannabis Value 34:25 Does Quality Mean Less 35:48 Savoring Premium Products 38:33 CHS And Overconsumption 42:33 Allergens Terpenes Perfume 45:03 Pregnancy Smell Sensitivity 47:05 Trust Your Nose Shopping 50:44 Beyond Indica Sativa 54:24 Strain Names Still Matter 57:32 Genome Gaps Landraces 59:43 New Compounds Plant Evolution 01:01:24 Overmanipulated Modern Nugs 01:03:16 Potency And Oversized Joints 01:04:42 Right Sizing Your Dose 01:05:46 Type Two Flower Wins 01:06:29 Budtenders Versus Medical Advice 01:08:35 Research Weed Supply Problem 01:12:42 Study Real Dispensary Products 01:14:08 What Consumers Actually Want 01:16:12 True Cut Genetic Verification 01:17:48 IP Protection And Licensing 01:19:05 Finding Medicine By Genetics 01:21:09 Scaling The Sample Universe 01:25:59 AI Guided Breeding Future 01:27:05 Where To Follow And Next Steps 01:27:36 New Work In Houston 01:29:19 Riley Projects And Wrap Up Connect with Dr. Anna Schwabe: Website: www.annaschwabe.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-schwabe-phd/ True Cut Bioscience: https://www.truecut.co/ Agricultural Genomics Foundation: https://agriculturalgenomics.org/ MyFlora DNA: https://myfloradna.com/ Want Exclusive Content and Ad-Free Episodes? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one. www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more conversations on cannabis science, genetics, plant biology, cultivation, pharmacology, and emerging research. Sign Up for Emails: www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlocking Soil Secrets (& Science) with Brandon Rust

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Brandon Rust, founder and CEO of FulCrop Sciences, for a fascinating conversation about the hidden biological systems that drive plant health and productivity. Brandon shares insights from years of cultivation experience, explaining how modern growing practices have shifted away from natural ecosystem processes and why rebuilding biological balance may be one of the most important steps for improving plant performance and long-term sustainability. The discussion explores how microbes, organic matter, mineral interactions, and natural nutrient cycling influence everything from root development to crop resilience and overall plant quality. Brandon also breaks down practical approaches growers can use to better support healthy ecosystems while reducing dependence on heavily synthetic inputs. They also discuss practical cultivation strategies for home growers and commercial cultivators alike, including compost teas, microbial inoculants, biological crop steering, mineral balancing, and the importance of understanding soil as a dynamic ecosystem rather than an inert growing medium. The discussion further examines the intersection of plant science, sustainability, cannabis cultivation, food systems, and the future of regenerative farming. Throughout the episode, Brandon shares insights into biological fertility, plant stress responses, nutrient cycling, and how healthier soils can ultimately lead to healthier plants and healthier people. Whether you’re interested in regenerative agriculture, cannabis cultivation, soil science, plant biology, sustainable farming, or microbial ecology, this episode is packed with practical insights and science-backed education. Chapters: 00:00 Childhood Foster Trauma 01:05 Podcast Intro Guest Setup 02:57 Night Terrors And Meds 06:24 Rebellion Cannabis Awakening 10:39 Hard Living Jail Time 12:18 Finding Family OG Growers 14:41 Electricity Tap First Grow 18:37 Science Mind Organic Shift 27:07 Agronomy Regenerative Basics 33:58 Soil Carbon Microbes Cycles 38:12 Living Soil Vs Mixes Brand 39:31 Choosing The Right Formula 40:54 Fixing Sandy Acidic Soil 41:28 Fulvic Acid Benefits Explained 42:20 Why Synthetic Fertilizer Wastes Energy 44:48 Soil Building And Carbon Nitrogen Ratios 47:03 Sulfur Aminos And Skunky Terps 50:56 Flushing Myths And Ash Color 54:29 Water Quality pH And Soil Tests 56:23 Nutrient Calculator And Data Workflow 58:41 Terroir VPD And Calcium Dynamics 01:04:35 Biological Crop Steering Microbes 01:12:50 Where To Learn More And Final Wrap Connect with Brandon Rust & FulCrop Sciences Follow Brandon and FulCrop Sciences for more information on regenerative agriculture, soil biology, microbial systems, and carbon-based fertility: Instagram: www.instagram.com/brandonrust TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@fulcropsciences Podcast: www.youtube.com/@fulcropsciences Website: FulCrop Sciences Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one. www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cannabis Industry Insights: Mycotoxins, Testing, and Biohacking with Kyle Boyar

Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Kyle Boyar to the Bioactive Podcast for an in-depth conversation on cannabis testing, mycotoxins, analytical chemistry, biohacking, and the evolving cannabis industry. Drawing from over a decade of experience in cannabis science, Kyle shares insights from his work across leading cannabis testing laboratories, academic institutions, and regulatory spaces. The discussion explores how cannabis testing has evolved over the years, the importance of accurate lab data, and the real-world challenges surrounding contamination, safety standards, and consumer trust. They also dive into the science of mycotoxins, microbial contamination, heavy metals, and how environmental conditions can impact cannabis quality and safety. The conversation examines the complexities of cannabis regulation, inconsistencies between state testing systems, and the role of analytical chemistry in improving industry standards. Additionally, they explore cannabis biohacking, cannabinoids, terpenes, creativity, and the relationship between cannabis use and cognitive performance. The dialogue further highlights the importance of scientific literacy within the cannabis industry, education for consumers, and the need for evidence-based discussions around cannabis safety and wellness. Finally, they touch on the future of cannabis science, emerging technologies in testing, and how researchers can help shape a more transparent and informed cannabis landscape. This is a conversation for anyone interested in cannabis science, product safety, laboratory testing, biohacking, analytical chemistry, and the future of evidence-based cannabis education. Chapters 00:00 Magnesium and Cortisol Timing 00:46 Meet the Guest Kyle Boyar 02:08 Biohacking 03:47 Daily Supplements and Omega-3 Quality 07:28 How to Vet Supplements 09:47 Caffeine Plus L-Theanine Focus Stack 13:59 Nighttime Calm Magnesium and CBN 21:04 Ashwagandha for Stress and Cortisol 24:31 Hangover Defense DHM and NAC 28:47 ECS Supplements PEA and OEA Reality Check 31:22 Cannabis Mycotoxins Testing Basics 32:54 Why Mycotoxin Failures Are Rare 34:32 Fusarium Focus and Field PCR 35:47 LAMP Contamination Reality 36:25 Fusarium Mycotoxins Explained 37:47 Extracts and CBD Findings 39:49 New Studies and Blind Spots 43:06 Ten State Compliance Data 44:24 Remediation Limits and DNA 50:21 Fixing Testing Trust Issues 53:10 THC Dopamine Basics 55:58 Creativity Dose Sweet Spot 01:00:28 Addiction Tolerance and Vapes 01:02:29 Schizophrenia Risk Mechanisms 01:04:04 Thalamus Filter and Reality 01:06:56 Heart Risks and Wrap Up Connect with Kyle Boyar Follow Kyle’s work in cannabis science, analytical chemistry, and education through his speaking engagements, scientific organizations, and industry collaborations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleboyar IG: https://www.instagram.com/canna_kybo Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one. www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more! Sign Up for Emails! www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Budtender’s Guide to Cannabis with Tessa Dattillo

Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Tessa Dattilo to the Bioactive Podcast to break down what it really means to be a budtender and how cannabis education translates to real-world consumer experiences. With nearly a decade in the cannabis industry, Tessa shares insights from the frontlines—helping patients and customers navigate products, understand cannabinoids and terpenes, and make informed decisions in an increasingly complex market. They explore the science behind how different cannabis products affect the body, including why edibles feel different from inhaled cannabis, how tolerance develops, and why product quality and sourcing matter. The conversation dives into red flags consumers should watch for when selecting products, from over-marketed “themed” items to inconsistencies in labeling and formulation. They also discuss the role of budtenders as educators, the gaps in industry training, and how consumers can advocate for themselves inside dispensaries. Additionally, they examine differences in state regulations, product availability, and how legislation shapes what ends up on dispensary shelves. Tessa shares practical advice for aspiring budtenders, key foundational knowledge to focus on, and how real patient interactions—from chronic pain to end-of-life care—highlight the importance of accessible, accurate cannabis education. The episode also touches on tolerance, product sampling, craft vs large-scale cannabis brands, and the importance of curiosity when navigating cannabis use. This is a conversation for anyone who wants to better understand cannabis from both a scientific and real-world perspective—whether you’re a consumer, patient, or working within the industry. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Too Strong Too Soon 01:22 Meet Tessa 420 02:06 From Cali to Illinois 04:01 Dispensary Education Gaps 06:02 Terpenes Rules and Misinformation 25:00 Budtender Life and Medical Use 30:24 Distillate Value Debate 31:55 Edibles Take Over 32:59 Drinks and Powder Buzz 35:51 Delta-8 Sickness and DIY Flower 38:12 Red Flags and Illinois Weirdness 47:14 Budtender Training and Farewell Follow Tessa Dattilo on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@tessa420_ Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk: www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and bioactive compounds. Sign Up for Emails www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Researching and Growing Cannabis with Dr. Emily Gogol

On this episode, Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Dr. Emily Gogol to the Bioactive Podcast to discuss the science, cultivation, and accessibility of cannabis from both a research and real-world growing perspective. Drawing from her background in biomedical science and her work leading Infinite Tree and Grow It From Home, Emily shares her journey from infectious disease research into cannabis farming, and how she applies data-driven methods to breeding, field trials, and terpene selection. They explore the process of developing stable, uniform cannabis genetics, the role of sensory evaluation (“the nose”) in selecting cultivars, and the importance of simplifying cannabis cultivation for home growers. The conversation also dives into practical growing techniques, including seed starting, drying and curing methods, and how to assess plant health and readiness. They discuss common challenges growers face, from germination myths and hermaphrodite stress to the differences between indoor and outdoor genetics. Additionally, they explore the evolving landscape of cannabis access, including home growing, seed distribution, and the impact of hemp regulations on small businesses and patients. The dialogue further highlights DIY approaches to cannabis as medicine, cannabinoid differences such as CBD, THC, and CBG, and the importance of education in empowering growers. Finally, they touch on the broader vision of making cannabis cultivation more approachable, sustainable, and accessible to communities nationwide. This is a conversation for anyone who wants to better understand the science behind cannabis cultivation, explore practical growing techniques, and gain the confidence to approach cannabis as both a plant and a tool for self-sufficiency. Chapters 00:00 Cannabis Is Just A Plant 00:53 Meet Dr Emily Gogol 02:45 From Infectious Disease To Farming 06:30 Starting The Oregon Farm 07:59 Recreating Sour Pineapple 12:50 Breeding For Uniformity 16:18 Field Trials And Data Systems 19:33 Terpene Selection And The Nose 25:52 Home Growers And Shipping Seeds 30:11 Simple Seed Starting Rules 32:16 Why Cannabis Feels Hard 37:58 Drying And Curing Basics 41:08 Vertical Basket Drying 41:55 Fast Dry Terpene Logic 42:28 How to Check Dryness 43:04 DIY Hang Dry Setups 44:19 Cannabis Is Just a Plant 47:12 Why Homegrow Wins 48:27 Outdoor vs Indoor Genetics 51:02 Hermaphrodite Stress Signs 52:58 Best Cultivars for Maine 55:44 Labeling Your Plants 56:45 CBD THC CBG Differences 01:03:08 Hemp Ban Business Impact 01:08:45 DIY Medicine and Scales 01:10:35 Where to Find Grow It From Home 01:12:40 THCA No Heat Tinctures 01:16:13 Seed Germination Myths 01:19:27 Packaging and Farewell Learn More / Resources Grow It From Home https://growitfromhome.com/ Want Exclusive Content and Ad-Free Episodes? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one: www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and natural products. Sign Up for Emails! www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Research on Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) with Dr. Codi Peterson and Megan Mbengue

Cannabis and Traumatic Brain Injuries with guest Nikki Lawley

Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Nikki Lawley to the podcast to discuss the transformative role of medical cannabis in managing traumatic brain injury (TBI), sharing her powerful personal journey alongside practical insights into cannabis as medicine. They cover topics such as the immediate and long-term symptoms of TBI, the challenges of navigating traditional healthcare systems, and the limitations of pharmaceutical treatments. Additionally, they explore how cannabis became a turning point in Nikki’s recovery, the barriers to access in the United States, and the stigma patients face when seeking alternative therapies. The discussion emphasizes patient-centered care, the importance of advocacy, and the growing role of cannabis in treating neurological conditions. They also delve into various aspects of cannabis science and personalized medicine, including cannabinoid therapy, terpene profiles, and the use of data tracking tools like Strainprint to optimize treatment outcomes. They discuss the significance of consistency in dosing, the effects of aged cannabis and CBN, and the role of terpene boiling points in consumption methods. The conversation further explores different delivery systems such as vaping and inhalation, how cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system, and the importance of experimentation in finding effective protocols. Finally, they touch on cannabis policy, patient advocacy, and the critical role of storytelling in advancing legalization and improving access for patients worldwide. This is a conversation for anyone navigating chronic illness, traumatic brain injury, or exploring cannabis as a potential therapeutic option. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the science of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system, this episode provides valuable insights into how cannabis can be used intentionally to support healing and improve quality of life. Chapters 00:00 TBI Changed Everything 01:34 Podcast Intro And Mission 02:37 The Headbutt Incident 05:10 Symptoms Hit Fast 06:48 Pharma Spiral And Workers Comp 10:49 Vegas Breakdown And Billboard Sign 16:44 First Cannabis Relief 19:40 Back Home Stigma And Barriers 23:18 Medical Cannabis Refuge In Canada 25:00 Strainprint Data And Terpene Tracking 29:32 Canada Trips And Building A Routine 31:33 Aged Flower and CBN 32:23 Terpene Boiling Points 33:24 L Orange Strain Deep Dive 35:33 Growing Pains and Pests 37:26 CB2 Targets and Nose Testing 39:13 Vapes Metabolism and ECS Tests 42:08 Myrcene Blue Lobster Effects 43:48 Cannabis vs Pills After TBI 49:07 Advocacy and Policy Reality 53:12 Consumption Methods and Work 56:50 Wrap Up and Where to Find Connect with Nikki Lawley Follow Nikki Lawley for insights on medical cannabis, traumatic brain injury (TBI), patient advocacy, and cannabinoid education: Website: nikkiandtheplant.org Instagram and Facebook: @nikkiandtheplant LinkedIn: Nikki Lawley Want Exclusive Content and Ad-Free Episodes? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one. www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, pharmacology, plant medicine, and natural products. Sign Up for Emails www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Keep Up with Dr. Riley Kirk YouTube: Cannabichem IG: Bioactive Podcast Website: www.bioactivepodcast.com/ , www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beyond Caffeine: The Hidden Chemistry of Coffee with Dr. Steven Helschien (Dr. Coffee)

There are all sorts of misconceptions about coffee — that it dehydrates you, that it’s bad for your heart, or that caffeine is the only thing happening in the cup. Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes coffee scientist Dr. Steven Helschien, widely known as “Dr. Coffee,” for a fascinating conversation exploring the chemistry, health effects, and cultural significance of one of the world’s most widely consumed psychoactive plants: coffee. With a background in chemistry and extensive experience in coffee education and research, Dr. Helschien breaks down the complex science behind coffee in a way that is both practical and accessible. They discuss coffee as a psychoactive plant medicine, examining not only caffeine but also the wide range of entourage compounds that influence its physiological and cognitive effects. Dr. Helschien and Dr. Kirk explore coffee’s relationship with inflammation, liver health, and cardiovascular markers, unpacking what current research suggests about coffee consumption and long-term wellness. They also explore the importance of coffee quality, including concerns about mold contamination, sourcing practices, and what consumers should look for when choosing high-quality beans. The conversation touches on brewing techniques and the science of extraction, the chemistry behind decaffeination methods, and why caffeine affects the body the way it does. The episode also expands into broader discussions about coffee as plant medicine, the cultural role of caffeine, and the fine line between daily ritual and dependence. Dr. Helschien shares insights into mold-free coffee sourcing, considerations around caffeine and breastfeeding, and practical strategies like caffeine cycling to maintain sensitivity to its effects. This is a conversation for anyone who loves coffee but wants to understand what’s really happening in the cup. Whether you're curious about caffeine’s effects, confused by common coffee myths, exploring brewing methods, or simply trying to get more out of your daily ritual, this episode offers science-backed insight in an accessible way. From the chemistry of flavor and roasting to the physiology of caffeine and the cultural habits surrounding coffee, Dr. Helschien helps demystify one of the world’s most widely consumed beverages. Episode Chapters: 01:02 Meet Dr Coffee 02:08 Psychoactive Plant 03:04 Entourage Compounds 06:04 Inflammation And Liver 08:19 Quality And Mold 10:13 Brain Heart Plaque 23:43 Brewing And Decaf 35:43 Decaf Methods Explained 36:49 Why Caffeine Works 38:36 Coffee as Plant Medicine 39:39 Coffee Addiction and Culture 43:12 Mold Free Coffee Buying 45:49 Breastfeeding and Caffeine 47:20 Caffeine Cycling Hack 59:15 Community Q&A and Wrap Up Get Free Coffee Science Resource from Dr. Helschien: Doc@myhealthypatient.com Connect with Dr. Helschien: LinkedIn - Dr. Steven Helschien Want Exclusive Content and Ad-Free Episodes? Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one. www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, pharmacology, and plant-based medicine! Sign Up for Emails www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Keep Up with Dr. Riley Kirk https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices