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Ep. 28: Exploring Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Cannabis
In this latest installment of Noid Knowledge, Jason Wilson from the Curious About Cannabis podcast discusses with our host Evan Friedmann and guests TJ Martin, Ian Oswald, and Kyle Boyar, their experiences at the American Chemical Society (ACS) conference in San Diego. Wilson shares insights from a conversation with colleagues about their research on volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) in cannabis, which contribute to its aroma. They found that while most VSCs were present in low concentrations, some strains like Gelato and GMO had higher levels. They also discussed the importance of proper packaging, noting that mylar bags can effectively retain these compounds. The conversation highlights the need for better analytical methods and open-access research to advance the cannabis industry.

Ep 27: Tracking Strains in Diverse Landscapes
In this latest installment of Noid Knowledge, we are joined by Daniela Vergara, PhD, Hemp Specialist at the Cornell Cooperative Extension, and Anna Schwabe, PhD, Associate Lecture Professor at the University of Colorado, discussing the evolution of cannabis cultivation and the need for regional climate data. Their recent project, funded by the Agricultural Genomics Foundation, studies 10 cannabis varieties grown by farmers in different regions, specifically plant characteristics, soil type, and harvest metrics. They aim to understand how environmental factors affect cannabis yield and quality, providing actionable insights for farmers and breeders.

Ep 26: Innovations in Drying and Curing to Protect Flower Quality
In this latest installment of Noid Knowledge, we are joined by Dr. Allison Justice, Founder and CEO of the Hemp Mine, and David Sandelman COO, CTO & Co-Founder of Cannatrol. Here, Allison and David discuss innovations in cannabis drying and curing, focusing on the Cannatrol technology which controls vapor pressure, preserving trichome integrity, and flower quality. Additionally, Allison shares how the Cannabis Research Center and Coalition (CRC) is transition to an open-source model to support cultivators, researchers, and home growers.

Ep 25: Cannabis Quality Differentiation Beyond Cannabinoid Content
In this latest installment of Noid Knowledge we are joined by Julie Kowalski, a leading mind in analytical chemistry and cannabis testing. Julie has arranged a very compelling symposium for Pittcon entitled Cannabis Aroma: Advances and Challenges in Determining and Commercializing Cannabis Product Quality Attributes. It is taking place on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, starting at 9:30 AM in room 209. The session features top notch speakers, including several previous guests of this show, and yours truly, discussing the next generation of quality assessment in cannabis.

Ep 24, Part III: Data Transparency in Cannabis Testing with Yasha Kahn
In the final part of this episode, Evan Friedmann and Yasha Kahn discuss the need for a national entity to centralize cannabis data collection, moving from snapshot data to continuous updates. They emphasize the importance of accurate lab data and adverse event tracking, suggesting QR codes on packaging to report issues. Yasha suggests harsher consequences for result manipulation and suggests collaboration between state departments and federal entities to support underfunded regulators. They also discuss the potential benefits of off-the-shelf testing and the importance of stability testing. Finally, Yasha shares his top three reading recommendations for the audience.

Ep 24, Part II: Data Transparency in Cannabis Testing with Yasha Kahn
Evan Friedmann and Yasha Kahn, co-founder of MCR Labs, discuss the discrepancies between current regulations and data on mycotoxins and pesticides in cannabis products. They highlight the need for updated regulations based on new data, emphasizing the importance of accurate testing and labeling. They also discuss the issue of result manipulation, particularly in THC content, and the need for public health officials to address this. Yasha suggests making testing data public to enhance oversight and suggests a national entity to manage this data for better consistency and public safety.

Ep 24, Part I: Data Transparency in Cannabis Testing with Yasha Kahn
Evan Friedmann interviews Yasha Kahn, co-founder of MCR Labs, about his journey into the cannabis industry and his efforts to promote transparency and integrity in laboratory practices. Yasha discusses the origins of MCR Labs, which began in Massachusetts to meet the needs of the soon-to-be legal medical cannabis market. He explains the challenges faced, including result manipulation by labs and the impact on public health. Yasha's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) project aimed to gather testing data from 37 states, revealed significant discrepancies in potency and mold results. Despite some states' reluctance to share data, Yasha has made much of this data public, leading to collaborative research and publications on various aspects of cannabis testing.

Ep 23, Part III: Accreditation in the Cannabis Industry with Susan Audino
In Part III of this episode, host Evan Friedmann is joined by Susan Audino, PhD, founder of S.A. Audino & Associates, LLC, and co-founder of Saturn Scientific, LLC, to examine the complexities of sampling in the cannabis industry, emphasizing the need for proper sampling plans, and methods.

Ep 23, Part II: Accreditation in the Cannabis Industry with Susan Audino
In Part II of this episode, host Evan Friedmann is joined by Susan Audino, PhD, founder of S.A. Audino & Associates, LLC, and co-founder of Saturn Scientific, LLC, discuss the challenges in cannabis testing, the THC cap, and the need for better regulations.

Ep 23, Part I: Accreditation in the Cannabis Industry with Susan Audino
In Part I of this episode, host Evan Friedmann is joined by Susan Audino, PhD, founder of S.A. Audino & Associates, LLC, and co-founder of Saturn Scientific, LLC, dig into accreditation, and standards for accreditation, highlighting their importance, while also acknowledging some challenges and pitfalls for labs.
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A new Smart Approaches to Marijuana poll shows most Americans oppose cannabis rescheduling if it increases youth advertising or benefits foreign cartels.

High Tide Inc. expands its retail location offerings. The Canna Cabana chain grows in Ontario & Alberta, focusing on high-growth local markets.

Test your knowledge of vapor cartridge hardware selection in 2025. This quiz covers key issues on optimizing vapor cartridge hardware for various cannabis extracts, including distillates, live resins, rosins, and full-spectrum oils.

What role does cannabis play in sleep quality and health-related conditions?

Court order shields 150+ New York cannabis dispensaries from OCM's new distance rules. The injunction is effective until February 2026.

Our top five cannabis and hemp news this week: cannabis sales milestones in Minnesota and Virginia, new CBD research, and Colorado’s latest regulatory updates.

Research highlights benefits of hemp-derived CBD reported by patients with anxiety: reduced anxiety, better sleep, and improved mood.

New statewide testing is coming to Colorado's regulated cannabis market. MED will sample products for contamination & verify potency claims.

A new literature review highlights CBD’s potential in skin health, from acne to psoriasis, while exploring delivery challenges and future applications.

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 564, lowering CA's cannabis excise tax from 25% to 15% to help the legal market compete.

New research shows frequent cannabis users may drive as well as non-users after abstinence.

The 1906 cannabis brands and co-founder must pay $400,000 to Colorado and cease operations after failing to disclose health risks of "Midnight Drops."

The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority reported data on medical cannabis sales and most popular products for July to August 2025.

Green Thumb Industries' RISE Dispensaries celebrates the launch of adult-use cannabis in Minnesota with new products and donations.

Our top five cannabis and hemp news this week: OCM fines NY lab, Congress halts rescheduling funding, Texas issues hemp order, NJ supports businesses with $15M in funding, and our latest podcast episode.

Governor Tim Walz signs new cannabis compact with Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, a move to regulate the market and support the start of Minnesota adult-use sales.

A UK Medical Cannabis Registry study found cannabis-based medicines improved sleep, anxiety, and quality of life in insomnia patients.

Test your knowledge of cannabis compliance in 2025. This quiz covers key issues like cross-state expansion and FDA oversight.

According to the Division of Cannabis Control, medical marijuana sales exceeded $2.2 billion and recreational cannabis generated over $785 million since legalization.

New Jersey’s new NJ LEAF program provides up to $1.5M in flexible funding to help cannabis businesses overcome capital access gaps.

Clinical and in vitro analysis shows THC may impair female fertility, distrupting oocyte development and affecting IVF outcomes.

New York's cannabis industry has grown to over $2 billion. The OCM's update shows market rebound and new support for equity applicants.

The FY26 CJS Appropriations Act includes Section 607, barring cannabis rescheduling. Advocates warn the Act threatens medical cannabis protections.

The OCM is taking action against Lexachrom Laboratory for regulatory failures and significant violations, jeopardizing consumer safety and market integrity.

The Texas Cannabis Policy Center and Texas Hemp Business Council both support Governor Abbott’s executive order on hemp regulations.

Our top five cannabis and hemp news this week: Nebraska’s medical cannabis battle, rescheduling debate, Thailand policy shifts, new medical cannabis research, and pricing trends.

This month’s Healer webinar, led by Dustin Sulak, DO, explores new medical cannabis research including potential benefits for cancer, wound healing, ALS, Alzheimer’s, and terpenes like alpha-pinene.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott issues an executive order to regulate product sales, requiring ID checks and testing.

New York's legal cannabis sales top $2 billion, with 46 new licenses approved. The state is prioritizing social equity and new education panels.

In this interview, Steve Allin, director of the International Hemp Building Association shares insights on the versatility and benefits of hemp as a crop and as a material used in construction.

Thailand's cannabis laws are evolving. A new Prime Minister brings hope for a discussion on legalizing cannabis.

An examination of survey data finds state cannabis laws strongly shape delta-8-THC use, with highest rates in prohibition states.

What's driving the cannabis pricing crisis? Test your knowledge regarding the market forces and trends that are reshaping the industry for 2025.