CannaCurious Magazine https://cannacuriousmag.com/ Women | Cannabis | Lifestyle Thu, 12 Dec 2024 02:33:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://i0.wp.com/cannacuriousmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/cropped-ccmag_logo_512x512-1.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 CannaCurious Magazine https://cannacuriousmag.com/ 32 32 180945521 Inside CannaCurious’s Exclusive MJBizCon Sanctuary https://cannacuriousmag.com/inside-cannacurious-mjbizcon-sanctuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=inside-cannacurious-mjbizcon-sanctuary Thu, 12 Dec 2024 02:23:27 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5809 The Las Vegas Arts District’s Nine Twenty event space transformed into a vibrant oasis during MJBizCon, proving that the cannabis industry isn’t just about business—it’s about celebration, connection, and empowerment. In collaboration with FlowerHire’s legendary Smoke & Magic gathering, CannaCurious crafted an unforgettable haven exclusively for the powerhouse women driving the cannabis revolution. Picture this: […]

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The Las Vegas Arts District’s Nine Twenty event space transformed into a vibrant oasis during MJBizCon, proving that the cannabis industry isn’t just about business—it’s about celebration, connection, and empowerment. In collaboration with FlowerHire’s legendary Smoke & Magic gathering, CannaCurious crafted an unforgettable haven exclusively for the powerhouse women driving the cannabis revolution.

Picture this: A stunning pink throne fit for an industry queen, nestled against a mesmerizing mosaic of cannabis leaves—a backdrop so Instagram-worthy it practically demanded attention. Custom hot pink champagne flutes emblazoned with “Call me your highness” set the tone for an evening of pure magic, with Cann’s delicious low-THC/CBD beverages flowing freely.

But this was more than just a lovely space. It was a strategic networking sanctuary where women entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry leaders could connect, inspire, and elevate each other away from the conference chaos. One attendee captured the vibe perfectly: “It was like a party within a party—our own little queendom of camaraderie!”

As the evening wound down, guests departed with luxe gift bags packed with premium products from Juana, Kiva Camino, CLEA Midlife, and CannaCurious—a tangible reminder of the incredible community being built.

Creating a safe space for women to kickback and connect was our goal, and it was fabulous to see our intention being felt. Mark your calendars, Your Highnesses. Next year’s gathering is already something to anticipate!

Check out our recap on Instagram!

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Sesh & Share: Decorate A Cake https://cannacuriousmag.com/sesh-share-decorate-a-cake/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sesh-share-decorate-a-cake Mon, 25 Nov 2024 17:13:00 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5784 By Julia Sergison I’ve been itching to decorate a cake for months. When I was little, I used to do it all the time. My elementary school best friend and I often did it together, using the kitchen in her parent’s basement apartment rental unit when it was unoccupied and starting an unofficial business we […]

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By Julia Sergison

I’ve been itching to decorate a cake for months. When I was little, I used to do it all the time. My elementary school best friend and I often did it together, using the kitchen in her parent’s basement apartment rental unit when it was unoccupied and starting an unofficial business we called Basement Bakery. We mostly made cupcakes and cakes that fit the theme of our own little cousins’ birthday parties. I can still pipe Bob The Builder with my eyes closed.

I couldn’t tell you when I stopped decorating cakes, but ever since I turned 30 in June, I’ve been actively trying to incorporate more of my favorite feel-good childhood activities into my adult life. This weekend, I finally got back to Basement Bakery (ahem, 4th Floor Bakery, I guess).

Over the years, I’ve used cannabis to get out of my own way and to be present in the moment. Rather than convincing myself I should be using my time more efficiently (make a spreadsheet! send cold emails! scrub the floors!), cannabis helps me slow down and just enjoy whatever it is I’m doing. The important part for me is setting an intention so I don’t just end up scrolling and snacking on the couch (though occasionally, that is the intention). 

Spud’s Coffee—my favorite local coffee shop, my makeshift office, my creative haven, and the best brunch in Fort Lauderdale—celebrated its third birthday recently, and I knew I finally had the inspiration I needed. I was puppysitting the same weekend, so I managed my time and expectations, deciding on a boxed mix for the cake and saving my energy for homemade icing and all the decorating. I gathered the supplies the day before so that Saturday would be just about the execution.

On Saturday morning, after a little walk and breakfast, I baked two 8-inch rounds so that I could get some more things done while they cooled for a while. After my errands and tasks, I took the pup on a long walk so that he would be tired enough to leave me to it. Then, I put on a Chill Mix playlist that Spotify made for me, and I took a joint out to the balcony to start phase two. Why a joint? I didn’t want the time commitment of an edible, and I don’t trust myself to clean a bowl or a bong as often as I should, so I don’t even own either of them. I missed my opportunity to smoke a cakey strain for the occasion and instead opted for Grassroots Lady Madonna from Curaleaf.

The calm from the cannabis helped me to just have a good time. I didn’t let the naturally passing thoughts distract me from doing something I wanted to do. I thought about how I was tired from a busy week, and I let it go. I thought about how I’d have to clean up this mess later, and I let it go. I thought about how the cake isn’t gluten-free and that I won’t even be able to taste it to see if it’s good, and I let it go. I was able to create space for the thoughts that served me: what color icing should I make first so I can change the color easily for the next? What utensils am I done with and can go in the dishwasher already? How should I fill the piping bags so I can easily swap out piping tips? Cannabis helped me think clearly and heightened the fun of the creative process.

Even better? I was met with more warm fuzzies the next day when I brought the cake to the Spud’s team. Their reactions only multiplied how glad I was to finally get to it. I’m already looking for a reason to decorate another (call me!).

If you’re inspired to take on a canna-creative project of any size – we want to hear it! Share your story and be featured in one of our next Sesh & Shares.

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The Wine Down: A Night of Community & Connection https://cannacuriousmag.com/the-wine-down-a-night-of-community-connection/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-wine-down-a-night-of-community-connection Tue, 12 Nov 2024 16:45:44 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5747 By Julia Sergison When it comes to bringing together cannabis enthusiasts in a laid-back, fun environment, our recent event, The Wine Down, truly delivered. It was an intimate yet vibrant evening full of laughter, music, friendly competition, and, of course, a little puff-puff-pass (or sips if that was more your style!). We wanted guests—whether they […]

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By Julia Sergison

When it comes to bringing together cannabis enthusiasts in a laid-back, fun environment, our recent event, The Wine Down, truly delivered. It was an intimate yet vibrant evening full of laughter, music, friendly competition, and, of course, a little puff-puff-pass (or sips if that was more your style!). We wanted guests—whether they came in a group or solo—to feel like they were spending a night amongst friends while still offering some expert education and conversation from our kind, approachable canna-community. We had good food, good vendors, good games, and good prizes, all led by the incredible DJ Bryan the MC  who kept the vibes high… pun intended. 

If you missed it, don’t worry! Here’s a look back at some of the night’s highlights, along with a few takeaways on why events like this are important for our growing community.


Highlights from the Night

Local Vendors & Sponsors: Our guests were welcomed into the venue by our local vendors who offered education, services, and products to our community. Curaleaf showcased their new Select line, sharing some stash socks and “Women Love Weed” necklaces; Highly Fulfilled Wellness Med Spa whose doctor was onsite to share tips on how to apply for or renew medical marijuana cards; SeaMoss-Organics brought vitamin and nutrient-packed gummies, gels, juices, and resins. They enhanced our community-focused feel, and we love supporting their outreach and growth. It was delightful to see everyone connecting with these small businesses and discovering new products in a casual setting.

Throughout the night, our guests giggled and mingled between games, smoke breaks in the backyard terrace, all the while sipping some BRĒZ, an alcohol-free social tonic of microdosed cannabis & mushrooms, before returning to the final showdown and enjoying snacks from the culinary geniuses at Gratefuel Cafe, our wonderful venue.


Why Events Like The Wine Down Matter

While we’re always into a little fun, our goals with The Wine Down were also to foster a community where people can come together and feel genuinely connected through shared interests in a place that doesn’t shame you for wherever you fall on the canna-spectrum. Events like The Wine Down help create that space in a way that feels accessible, inviting, educational, fun, and judgment-free.

If you were hesitant to attend but are thinking about the next one, know that we craft them with you, the canna-curious, in mind. It’s a relaxed, welcoming environment that celebrates cannabis (whether you choose to use it at the event or not) and invites you to build connections for friends, business, art, and more!

Cannabis culture is about more than just the plant; it’s about the joy, creativity, and freedom it brings. By incorporating entertaining elements like music and games, we’re able to show that cannabis is as much about community and celebration as it is about wellness and education.


Looking Forward: Join Us Next Time!

The Wine Down was just one of many events we plan to host for the CannaCurious community. Our goal is to continue creating spaces where our community can learn, connect, and feel empowered through cannabis. If you’re curious about cannabis, looking for a fun night out, or just want to meet new friends in the community, keep an eye on our Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for details about upcoming events. And if you attended The Wine Down, tag us in your photos—we’d love to see your favorite moments from the night. We want to send a special thanks to our pals Annie from Elegant Leaf and Cailin from Oh Cai Creative for their help in facilitating and capturing our night!

Remember, whether you’re a regular user or just starting to explore the world of cannabis, there’s a place for you at our future gatherings. These events are for everyone (whether you consume or not!), and we’re here to make sure you feel right at home. 💖

We hope to see you next time!

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Celebrating Women-Led Brands at New York’s Revelry Buyers Club and Festival https://cannacuriousmag.com/celebrating-women-led-brands-at-new-yorks-revelry-buyers-club-and-festival/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=celebrating-women-led-brands-at-new-yorks-revelry-buyers-club-and-festival Tue, 12 Nov 2024 16:35:01 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5736 By Jill Goldsberry This year the Revelry Buyers Club and Festival in NYC presented a two-day event featuring a day for buyers to connect with 100 of the best legal New York brands. The second day had festivities for the enthusiasts, the culture, and celebrities to mix and mingle—all for the love of the plant.  […]

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By Jill Goldsberry


This year the Revelry Buyers Club and Festival in NYC presented a two-day event featuring a day for buyers to connect with 100 of the best legal New York brands. The second day had festivities for the enthusiasts, the culture, and celebrities to mix and mingle—all for the love of the plant. 

On the Revel has been going strong since 2016 by it’s pioneers, Lulu Tsui and Jacobi Holland. It is always an event including cannabis brands showcasing their products for retail sales, panels, and discussions with local celebrities. This event did not disappoint! 

We were on the lookout for women-led and owned cannabis brands offering quality products to share, and we certainly found them. Here are a few of our favorites.

Angela Yee of “Way Up with Angela Yee” and Jill Goldsberry

New York Cannabis Brands to Watch

Dealer Cannabis, Kate McLaughlin, CEO

Dealer Cannabis is one of the only full-scale operations that is Black woman and veteran owned. They were on hand introducing a new sku– an edible chocolate bar that is 400mg/10mg per piece. It will be available in dark and white chocolate. The brand’s flower and pre-rolls can also be found in many dispensaries throughout NYC and the state.


Sky Rose Farms, Jenny Hindes, Cultivator and CEO

Lead by a genuine 3rd generation legacy farmer. Jenny is a 20-year veteran in cultivation and is very connected to the plant. Sky Rose is premium flower at better prices than most. Don’t sleep on this brand!


Tarot Tokes Cannabis, Lovely Hamlet, Chief Marketing Officer

Hamlet is the brains, beauty, and tarot practitioner behind the sun-grown flower brand Tarot Tokes. Hamlet often combines her metaphysical skills to cannabis consumers by including a tarot card with each strain to explain its mood benefits. Tarot Tokes can be found throughout New York State and recently won the best in state for their strain of Lilac Rose.



Supernaturals NY

Supernaturals is a woman-led, family farm. They are known for “using our best quality flower to create the best pre rolls on the market.” They pride themselves on their strict cultivation practices in using only living soil to grow potent flower. But the MVP of the day was by far their gummies–  the best I’ve tasted in a long time. Made with fast-acting THCV and herbs with flavors like Peach Matcha Energy the effects will be out of this world!

Despite the industry is still very male-dominated in terms of cultivation, manufacturing, and sales, Revelry Buyer’s Club did a great job of showcasing these women-led brands who are breaking down barriers. With thoughtful cultivation and branding, they are bringing their unique female perspectives to the plant in the best way.

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Supporting Maternal Mental Health With Cannabis https://cannacuriousmag.com/supporting-maternal-mental-health-with-cannabis/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=supporting-maternal-mental-health-with-cannabis Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:49:34 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5711 By Julia Sergison We spent a little time recently with Jaimee D., Executive Director of a Monterey County nonprofit focused on maternal mental health. Outside of that role, Jaimee is an educator, a trained doula, a certified lactation counselor, and a single mom to a five-year-old daughter.  Jaimee told us about the mental health benefits […]

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By Julia Sergison

We spent a little time recently with Jaimee D., Executive Director of a Monterey County nonprofit focused on maternal mental health. Outside of that role, Jaimee is an educator, a trained doula, a certified lactation counselor, and a single mom to a five-year-old daughter. 

Jaimee told us about the mental health benefits of her cannabis consumption and how it helps her manage the demands of life, caring for herself and caring for her child. Though she described a cannabis-friendly Californian community, she still faces challenges in navigating the taboos and attitudes that many people still have towards cannabis. 

When Jaimee joined our video call, she was nestled comfortably in her partner’s home office in Santa Cruz. Before we officially started our conversation, she lifted the laptop to point out the home garden full of cannabis plants directly outside the window behind her. California, right?

Despite her access to locally grown cannabis now, Jaimee grew up on the opposite coast, in a somewhat conservative small town on Long Island. Her parents were educators and coaches, so cannabis was always a forbidden fruit—from use to even just open discussion. As happens in youth, Jaimee’s first experiences with cannabis were smoking whatever buds that teenagers could get their hands on in the backyards or basements of friends’ whose families were a little more laissez-faire or 420-friendly.

Jaimee started to hone in on using cannabis with more understanding, more intention, and even ceremoniously.

After growing up with pretty hushed usage, Jaimee eventually found herself living in California right after adult use became legal. Having the expertise and recommendations of her local budtenders and dispensaries, Jaimee started to hone in on using cannabis with more understanding, more intention, and even ceremoniously. It became her preferred medicine for stress relief, sleep aids, and sometimes just a recreational alternative to cut down on or take breaks from alcohol.

One thing that hasn’t changed since she was young is her preferred method: edibles. Her current favorites are Big Pete’s Treats Cannabis-Infused Mini Cookies, opting for sativa to be present in the moment and indica for winding down at night. 

Aside from overall not enjoying the mechanism of smoking for health reasons, Jaimee also doesn’t want to smell like cannabis around her daughter. “I don’t like the smell… which I think is a bit of a conditioning thing,” Jaimee told me. “I don’t want [my daughter] to come cuddle me and smell weed. But I don’t care if she comes and cuddles me, and I smell like wine, you know?”

Jaimee knows that her own relationship with cannabis is responsible and intentional and has seen how it also supports birth givers and other parents she meets through her work. Like so many others in our CannaCurious community, she still can’t deny there’s the chance someone—maybe even parents of her daughter’s peers—will judge. 

With that in mind, Jaimee has been thinking about the conversations she’ll have with her daughter—possibly sooner rather than later. She doesn’t want to paint cannabis in the wrong light, using it in secret after bedtime in the cover of darkness, nor does she want her daughter to misuse it or face criticisms from those that don’t participate. 

Jaimee faces a dilemma many canna-moms do, which is why we’re happy to share her story with those that can relate. If you’re a California girl like her, too, check out her favorite dispensary: East of Eden

Sound familiar? Have something to add to the conversation? We want to hear your story, too! 

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Celebrating Latinas in Cannabis https://cannacuriousmag.com/celebrating-latinas-in-cannabis/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=celebrating-latinas-in-cannabis Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:48:17 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5716 On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Latinas In Cannabis hosted their 2nd Annual Summit in the heart of Hollywood, California. Founder and CEO Susie Plascencia succeeded in growing the largest and most engaged online and in-person community of Latina cannabis professionals and enthusiasts. Her hard work was evident from the attendance of her event, featuring a […]

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On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Latinas In Cannabis hosted their 2nd Annual Summit in the heart of Hollywood, California. Founder and CEO Susie Plascencia succeeded in growing the largest and most engaged online and in-person community of Latina cannabis professionals and enthusiasts. Her hard work was evident from the attendance of her event, featuring a diverse community of Latina advocates, entrepreneurs, and creators for a day focused on connections, growth, and celebrating a community that understands that the plant is so much more than a demonized “drug.”

The event took place just two days before Latinas in Cannabis Day on September 30th and was the first professional Latina empowerment and cannabis industry conference of its kind, giving attendees the opportunity to participate in an impactful and career-building event. It was intentionally curated for personal and professional development, relationship-building, and opportunities for career advancement. 

Over the course of the day, guests participated in impactful panels on advocacy and breaking cannabis stigma, careers in cannabis sales, cannabis and motherhood, cannabis entrepreneurship, and executive leadership. They also had the opportunity to build skills and confidence through value-driven workshops on cannabis PR 101 and the power of the Latina vote this election year.

Guests this year also indulged in tasty treats from Pink & Boujee LA, were given complimentary entry to the Summer Nights in Hollywood concert, and received gift bags from Zig-Zag, including products from them and other top California cannabis brands, plus the chance to win additional raffles as well.

This was a beautiful gathering, and we are looking forward to next year already!
Check out the photos captured by Lidia Ochoa (@lucidlidia on Instagram)

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Meet Monica! The Cali Sober Mom https://cannacuriousmag.com/meet-monica-cali-sober-mom/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=meet-monica-cali-sober-mom Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:13:32 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5661 @calisobermomWhich do you use? Cannabis & CBDHow do you consume?Edibles, BeveragesHow long have you been using these products?1-5 yearsWhat made you seek out these products? Was there a specific situation?After the traumatic birth of my twins in 2022, I turned to alcohol to cope with postpartum depression and anxiety and—at the time—undiagnosed ADHD. Despite efforts […]

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@calisobermom
Which do you use?
Cannabis & CBD
How do you consume?
Edibles, Beverages
How long have you been using these products?
1-5 years
What made you seek out these products? Was there a specific situation?
After the traumatic birth of my twins in 2022, I turned to alcohol to cope with postpartum depression and anxiety and—at the time—undiagnosed ADHD. Despite efforts to help from my husband and mother, my drinking only escalated and my mental health deteriorated.
But I knew something had to change. So I eventually sought therapy and explored alternatives to alcohol. This brought me to medical cannabis. Initially, I was skeptical due to past negative experiences. But with little to lose, I decided to give it a try. I obtained my medical cannabis card and began using edibles. Long story short, cannabis helped me remove my dependency on alcohol.

Cannabis became a healthier alternative, making me a more present and patient parent. When
social situations arose, like a summer barbecue, I turned to cannabis beverages instead of
alcohol


What hesitations or concerns, if any, did you have before starting?

Due to past experiences, such as painful paranoia and increased anxiety, I always had negative connotations with cannabis. So I was hesitant to try it again. However, upon my own research, I came to learn about the medicinal benefits of the plant and how, when dosed properly, cannabis can actually (and does) improve my anxiety and eradicate my dependency on alcohol.

What is the biggest change you’ve noticed since using these products?
Cannabis has not only helped me unwind but also improved my overall health. I’ve lost 40 pounds, my skin looks better, and I no longer experience memory loss. Even my relationship with my husband has improved because we don’t fight as much. Before I was diagnosed with ADHD, my alcohol abuse increased my anxiety and depression. Cannabis allows me to relax my nervous system without worsening my mental health.

Turning to cannabis also helped me realize my entrepreneurial passion and start my business, Cali Sober Mom. I saw the opportunity to launch Cali Sober Mom as part of a bigger purpose. With my career not being at risk, I’m immensely grateful that I can step up and be a safe voice and resource for those who might feel like they have to be closeted about their cali-sober and alcohol-free lifestyle choices. Speaking out about alcohol-free alternatives and advocating for cannabis reform in my home state of Louisiana and beyond is all part of putting in the work to make this world a better place for our children and future generations.

Tell us your routine for how/when you use these products.
Typically, I enjoy edibles and beverages. Instead of a glass of wine in the evening, I’ll have a cannabis beverage. Or instead of having an alcoholic seltzer at a backyard BBQ, I’ll have a cannabis-infused seltzer.

What are your go-to brands or strains (of cannabis)?
My go-to cannabis beverage brands are Cali Sober, Crescent Canna, and Louie Louie, a locally cultivated and produced cannabis beverage brand in my hometown of New Orleans, LA.

What advice do you have for anyone looking to use cannabis or CBD products?
Start low and slow. There are great cannabis-infused beverages that have 2.5 mg per can. Typically, within 15 minutes, you’ll start to feel the effect, and the buzz will be gone in about 90 minutes or so. So have one, and see how you feel before drinking too many at a time. Then, stack up the feeling you want. This means having one drink, sitting in the feeling for a while, and then once you’re comfortable, having another, if you desire. This way, you can stack on more milligrams at a pace that suits you. Stacking will also help you learn your ideal dosage.

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Can Cannabis Boost Your Orgasm? The Research You Need to Know. https://cannacuriousmag.com/can-cannabis-boost-your-orgasm-the-research-you-need-to-know/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=can-cannabis-boost-your-orgasm-the-research-you-need-to-know Wed, 11 Sep 2024 13:53:57 +0000 https://cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5648 By Julia Sergison How’s your orgasm? That’s the question that Dr. Suzanne Mulvehill, Executive Director of The Female Orgasm Research Institute and Founder of the Women’s Cannabis Project, is hoping to encourage. According to the diagnostic statistical manual of mental disorders, it’s reported that up to 42% of women have difficulty achieving orgasm or suffer […]

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By Julia Sergison

How’s your orgasm?

That’s the question that Dr. Suzanne Mulvehill, Executive Director of The Female Orgasm Research Institute and Founder of the Women’s Cannabis Project, is hoping to encourage.

According to the diagnostic statistical manual of mental disorders, it’s reported that up to 42% of women have difficulty achieving orgasm or suffer from a condition called female orgasmic disorder (or FOD). Despite advancements in sex education, sex therapy, and gender equality, this number is still the same as it was 50 years ago. Considering the possible limitations of populations sampled back then and even now, it’s easy to imagine that number is higher, in actuality. In the same way that the topic of FOD might not come up so easily at the dinner table, it also hasn’t been a priority of scientific research over the last five decades. Dr. Mulvehill has been working alongside her partner, Dr. Jordan Tishler of Inhale MD, to change the conversation and to provide more targeted studies on the relationship between cannabis use and treatment of FOD.

Of course, every superhero has her origin story. 

Dr. Mulvehill recounted her own struggles with orgasms as the motivating factor that landed her on her current path. At a certain point in her adult life, well into marriage and motherhood, she lost the ability to climax. And she had lost it for thirty years. 

As a woman who knew what an orgasm felt like—and to have lost that feeling—she was determined to find a solution. Dr. Mulvehill sought out handfuls of doctors and sex therapists, shelled out thousands of dollars to see specialists near and far, participated in domestic and international orgasm coaching programs, and flat out refused to accept this as a lifelong problem she couldn’t solve. This determination led her to discover studies about trauma and female orgasmic disorder. With a new lightbulb gently switching on in her head, Dr. Mulvehill turned her studies inward and examined the roles that trauma and shame played in her own relationships with her body and with her mind. 

Ironically, some of her trauma was related to cannabis and cannabis users. The majority of the experience she had with cannabis until then was with her then husband, who overused the plant in a way that was detrimental to their lives and their relationship. As those who have dealt with addiction know, it’s often not the substance itself that’s at fault, but the underlying misuse, dishonesty, and dysfunction. Some time after the marriage ended, Dr. Mulvehill leaned into her trauma spot, never imagining that the very plant she blamed as the reason for ending her marriage was the same one that was going to help her heal.

Dr. Mulvehill was candid in sharing that it wasn’t a simple, quick, or painless solution. She didn’t, on the first try, take a few puffs and solve a 30-year problem. Instead, she used cannabis with intention and with direction, took time to work through the pain of her past, gave herself grace throughout, and regularly adjusted her consumption and dosage. Over four months, she found the quantity and environments that allowed her to surrender her thoughts and focus on being fully present. She realized that the difficulty she had in surrendering was perhaps the biggest distraction inhibiting her ability to orgasm. Processing her pain finally freed up space for her pleasure.

How many of us have been in a similar scenario, in or out of the bedroom? It’s easy to be lost in your mind, trying to think about the groceries you forgot to add to your list while you should be listening to your child tell you about the first day of school from the backseat of the car—even reading the same paragraph of a book ten times because you let your thoughts wander somewhere else over and over. Cannabis provided Dr. Mulvehill the solution she had been seeking: a way to get out of her head and into her body.

Since finding her way back to her own body, Dr. Mulvehill has been aiming her efforts at helping those like her. In addition to her ongoing research with Dr. Tishler, she coaches women who are looking for the same solution, regularly collaborates with other professionals like Dr. Nan Wise, a certified sex therapist, relationship specialist, and neuroscience researcher, and Amanda Moser, a sexologist and cannabis researcher, and is even writing her own book to further make these findings readily available. A lifelong student herself, she recognizes and emphasizes the importance of learning and is passionate about sharing what she has learned. 

“Finding the right amount is really a trial-and-error thing for women in terms of addressing this issue,” she told me. “It’s kind of like Goldilocks. You’ve got to find the right dose, the right comfort. You’ve got to know when to take it, who to take it with—all of that.” 

Despite the success Dr. Mulvehill had in taking the Goldilocks approach, not all cannabis users are as comfortable navigating without guidance. This is all the more reason she encourages us to bring up the topic amongst friends and those we trust. A safe, open conversation can help identify any issues, lose the shame, and start healing. While adding orgasm chat to girls’ night is a start, the research and efforts from Dr. Mulvehill and her colleagues have been pivotal in petitioning to add female orgasmic disorder as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis approval in ten states. So far, Dr. Mulvehill reports, “Connecticut approved it at the state level, and the Illinois medical cannabis board unanimously approved it… We’re waiting for state-level approval.” While the status of these petitions varies in the other eight states that have made attempts, it’s a step closer to access, education, and solutions for women in need. 

Though the immediate benefits of an orgasm are obvious, there’s more to it than one might think. Dr. Mulvehill shared statistics that women who suffer from FOD or who don’t orgasm often enough are those with a higher prevalence of mental health issues, those that take more prescription medication, and those that report histories of sexual abuse. They may even be more likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases or Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Mulvehill sees the correlations and is pursuing the questions of correlation. As she says, “it’s clearly an issue that needs to be addressed.”

In addressing it so far, Dr. Mulvehill has achieved a 95% success rate in helping the women she works with reclaim their pleasure. With this, along with her commitment and enthusiasm for ongoing research and changes in public policy, maybe it’s better we start referring to her as Super Suzanne

Curious about more from Dr. Mulvehill? Us too! There’s more to learn, and we’re eager to continue sharing it with you. Stay tuned as we continue our conversation…and don’t be afraid to get one started with the women in your life in the meantime.

The post Can Cannabis Boost Your Orgasm? The Research You Need to Know. appeared first on CannaCurious Magazine.

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The Power of Collaboration with Timeka Drew https://cannacuriousmag.com/the-power-of-collaboration-with-timeka-drew/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-power-of-collaboration-with-timeka-drew Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:51:19 +0000 https://www.cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5571 Collaboration within the cannabis industry is critical, especially for underrepresented entrepreneurs and their businesses, for so many reasons. If you want your cannabis brand to expand beyond your state, collaboration can help. Even marketing cannabis, whether on a national or local level, is incredibly challenging due to the regulations and lack of normalization. Collaboration opens […]

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Collaboration within the cannabis industry is critical, especially for underrepresented entrepreneurs and their businesses, for so many reasons. If you want your cannabis brand to expand beyond your state, collaboration can help. Even marketing cannabis, whether on a national or local level, is incredibly challenging due to the regulations and lack of normalization. Collaboration opens a door that allows cannabis businesses to share scarce marketing resources and be exposed to existing cannabis-friendly consumers while building a culture of support within the industry. We chatted with Timeka Drew, an operating social equity license holder, a seasoned cannabis industry executive, and the founder and CEO of Biko, a California-born cannabis brand, to get her valuable insights on the power of collaboration in cannabis.

What are the main factors people should consider when deciding to collaborate with a particular business? What approach should be taken? 

Value-alignment is key to managing and producing a collaboration where both parties will be happy with the outcome. Both parties should consider what resources they have and what is needed to be able to bring the project to completion. A good collaboration will be beneficial to both parties and will not require one party to carry a heavier load than the other.

Instead of thinking about a collaboration as a transaction that will lead to financial gains, first look at it as an opportunity for community-building and marketing. When a collaboration has a prominent financial aspect to consider, it is important to understand the regulatory compliance and logistics around profit-sharing and payment. Often, if a collaboration will lead to financial gain for a business that has not been disclosed to cannabis regulators, it will need to be reported.

Can you share a specific example of a successful collaboration? How did you identify complementary strengths between your businesses, and how did these play a role in your decision to collaborate?

Biko has done several collaborations with value-aligned businesses over our three years in the California market. One of my favorites was with a women-led, Sun & Earth-certified cultivator based in Northern California called Midnight Gardens. I had dinner with cannabis icon Nina Parks in the Bay Area, and she gave me a beautiful Raspberry Parfait strain from Midnight Gardens. She told me that they were having a hard time moving the rest of the batch and wondered if I might be able to use it in my Biko products.

A common problem that cultivators often face is that when they sell bulk flower to manufacturers to sell in completed goods like eighths and pre-rolls, no one knows where the flower is coming from. Even if a consumer wants to support women-led grows, they don’t know how because you can’t simply buy flower directly from a cultivator. I connected with Midnight Gardens and found that their price was more aligned with what I was paying for flower living in my Red Series product line, my everyday selection priced to be affordable. In order to be able to support this women-led cultivator, I created a new collaboration SKU, Red Series Select, meant to shine a light on unique outdoor cultivators producing flower that competes with, and even sometimes outshines, indoor grown selections. This product blended our logos and was the first time Midnight Gardens would get recognition for their flower on finished goods in the California cannabis market.

It allowed Biko to tell a story about the importance of supporting female cultivators and sun-grown flower nurtured in living soil. It was a way for Biko to market our values and lift up the work of another small, family-owned business. This partnership was easy because it only required Biko to create a unique label for the collaboration and to purchase the wholesale cannabis from Midnight Gardens.

In what ways has collaboration impacted your business’s growth and overall success?

My friend Aryana Gathings, the proprietor of Plant Bitch (for bitches who love plants!), came up with the idea for the beautiful, 420-friendly independent music festival Flowers & Flowers, which Biko sponsored in 2022. I met Aryana at the event and indicated I would love to collaborate on the next festival and perhaps offer a festival-themed product for compliant purchase at the event. I learned that Aryana was working to bring her Plant Bitch brand into the cannabis market, and we discussed a vision to grow the festival and create a solution to be able to do compliant sales on site.

This collaboration led Biko into a new role with the festival in 2023 as a co-producer, and the product that we created was a Biko x Plant Bitch “Flowers & Flowers” infused preroll that launched on delivery platform Eaze statewide before the festival. The collaboration helped her Plant Bitch brand become visible throughout the state as a producer of cannabis products and experiences, it helped us market and promote Flowers and Flowers Festival, and it lifted up Biko’s dedication to supporting women entrepreneurs in the cannabis space. Through this partnership, I also learned that Aryana is an incredibly talented fashion designer, and she has been utilizing her skills to help me launch Biko’s new streetwear line.  

What are some potential challenges with collaboration, and how can businesses prepare for potential issues and how to navigate them?

Finances and timing are both challenges that can turn into issues while executing a collaboration. A project that was not fully considered could lead to costs and logistical needs associated with it that can be difficult to navigate if they were never discussed. It is important to have some kind of agreement in place with a collaborator. It can be as simple as a “Memorandum of Understanding” that outlines who is responsible for what and how any issues or unforeseen expenses will be handled. How the collaboration is discussed can be a sticking point as well – drafting language around the collaboration and ways to talk about the product or project on social media and in interviews with the press can be helpful. Having a project management document that is shared between all parties and regularly updated or checking in with a weekly call while the project is coming together are also tactics for addressing issues as they arise quickly and effectively.

The cannabis industry changes rapidly – assumptions about cost and timing must always be taken with a grain of salt, and collaborators should always be aware that the best laid plans often shift within this space.

Lastly, what practical advice would you give to other small business owners looking to collaborate without financial investment?

First, make a list of everything you could potentially offer someone looking to launch a brand, product, or project in your city or state. For example, as a California manufacturer and distributor, I can offer brand collaboration for placement on retail shelves I am already on, marketing support through our social media channels, placement in ads and mentions in interviews, etc. Then, make a list of what you need (i.e. Biko needs brand recognition and trademarking in adult-use cannabis markets nationally). Sometimes, as is the case with myself as a small brand with a manufacturing license, I will be able to offer the collaboration that you need. I could help launch a brand in California through my Biko brand and a New York brand could help Biko launch on the east coast. Neither party in this case would need to spend money to collaborate. Both parties could simply develop a co-branded label to support the launch and create a marketing plan that serves them both. After the launch, both brands would be able to share the information with their trademark attorneys to create legal protection. We can all be multi-state operators if we are willing to collaborate!  

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A 2024 Guide to Cannabis Friendly Destinations https://cannacuriousmag.com/a-2024-guide-to-cannabis-friendly-destinations/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-2024-guide-to-cannabis-friendly-destinations Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:48:53 +0000 https://www.cannacuriousmag.com/?p=5564 By Shayna Conde As a travel and cannabis journalist, I can clock a cannabis-friendly destination immediately. While I have a few favorite cities in the USA, some of my favorite pro-puff havens are international. Here are some of my tried-and-true locations for canna-travel and other places that are on my vision board for 2025. If […]

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By Shayna Conde

As a travel and cannabis journalist, I can clock a cannabis-friendly destination immediately. While I have a few favorite cities in the USA, some of my favorite pro-puff havens are international. Here are some of my tried-and-true locations for canna-travel and other places that are on my vision board for 2025. If you’re itching for a solo or group vacation, say no more. I got you!

US-based destinations:

The Bay Area, California

What many cannabis travelers might not tell you is that California cannabis is fast outpacing the Amsterdam cannabis scene. While the laws in the US still have some catching up to do, when it comes to quality and innovation, Europeans definitely look to California as a serious competitor. The Bay Area, specifically, has been a flagship in the cannabis scene for years. From August 17-18, 2024, Oakland, California, will be hosting the 20th annual Emerald Cup, one of the largest outdoor cannabis competitions in the world. Across the Bay, in San Francisco, be sure to check out some of my favorite cannabis chefs, like Haejin Chun, who I previously featured in a Food & Wine Magazine article.

Portland, Oregon

Along with being one of the first states to legalize cannabis for adults, Portland also has an entire section of its tourism dedicated to cannabis. Before cannabis, I’m a foodie, and, as it stands, Portland is my favorite food destination in the US to date, so if you get the munchies, come to Portland and bring stretchy pants. Travel Portland, the city’s tourism board, has a page on its website that outlines the city’s rules, favorite dispensaries, and small businesses that sell signature cannabis. My favorites are Laurie + Mary Jane’s Cheese Crisp Crackers and Green Muse Cannabis, a Black-owned dispensary in town.

Denver, Colorado Colorado and Washington were the first states to officially legalize marijuana in 2014 and the cannabis tourism industry there is thriving. While I’ve only passed through Denver on my journey to Aspen, I noticed that Denver has countless activities and adventures for weed travelers. From smoke-and-paints and cannabis tours of the city to guided mountain excursions and comedy nights at AD’s Mile High Smoke, the only licensed cannabis bar in Colorado, there’s a lot to do in this city so making an itinerary beforehand would be wise.

International destinations:

Portugal

Portugal was the first country in the world to decriminalize the recreational use of all drugs (including cannabis) in 2001, so for an international trip, it should be high on your list. While I see the appeal of Lisbon, the nation’s capital city, personally, I prefer Porto. Located in Portugal’s northern coast, Porto is a sensory playground for people who want to vibe outside. From Peneda-Gerês, Portugal’s only national park located about 90 minutes outside of Porto, to WOW Porto. WOW Porto is currently my favorite interactive museum in Europe, and it’s all about wine. My top experiences there for cannabis travelers are the Chocolate Story (where you learn all about the chocolate-making process and eat chocolate along the way) and The Pink Palace (11 rooms with playful, social media-friendly activities plus a rose wine tasting). While you can’t smoke in the building, exploring these experiences with a buzz is top-tier entertainment.

Spain

I’m in the process of moving to Spain as we speak and Barcelona’s cannabis culture is close to my heart. While cannabis has been decriminalized, my favorite cannabis snacks (edibles and gummies) can only be purchased through cannabis speakeasies. These exclusive cannabis clubs require identification and a fee of around 20-40 euros but then you receive year-long entry into the club of your choosing. Here you can not only purchase gummies and edibles, but (depending on the club) there are game nights, cannabis cooking classes, and so much more. These clubs are highly regulated and great for long or short-term stays.

Jamaica

My mother is born-and-raised Jamaican, and while she may have complicated feelings about our motherland’s relationship to cannabis, I find it something to be celebrated. Cannabis is intertwined with Jamaica’s story of liberation and wonder, and some tourism companies, like Jacana and Ganja Vacations, have created cannabis history tours. These tours allow you to consume responsibly and (depending on what kind of adventure you want) visit the birthplace of Bob Marley, cook an authentic Jamaican meal with a chef, explore nature, or any other stimulating adventure.

South Africa South Africa officially decriminalized cannabis in private spaces in 2018, and now they are on the cutting edge of Africa’s cannabis tourism sector. Along with surrounding yourself with Black culture, history, and food, why not catch a light fade as you enjoy your vacation? With an increasing number of cannabis tours and cannabis-friendly lodgings, like on Hibnb, South Africa is positioning itself to be a contender in the international cannabis marketplace. For those who want to get high and wonder, I recommend looking through Nicole Banister’s Medium article, Black-Owned Businesses in Cape Town for how to build your itinerary. South Africa is at the top of my list for 2025!

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