BIOACTIVE

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/

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https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem

https://instagram.com/cannabichem

https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/
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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

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questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.

www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem
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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/
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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_

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Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk:

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https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/

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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/
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