BIOACTIVE

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk shares a 2025 year-in-review and announces exciting news about teaching a cannabis chemistry and pharmacology course at Vermont State University next Spring. Riley then dives into a Q&A packed with highly requested cannabis education topics, answering real listener questions about nanoemulsification safety, whether CBN truly helps with sleep, and the pros and cons of dabbing concentrates.

She also breaks down how to talk to family about cannabis use, the science behind THC:CBD ratios, why “indica vs. sativa” is largely a myth, and how different strain chemistries influence effects. Riley explains the difference between live resin vs. live rosin vape cartridges, how nano cannabis products work in the body, and whether already-vaped cannabis is still edible or effective.

If you are curious about cannabis science, consumption methods, harm reduction, or understanding how cannabinoids and terpenes really work, this episode is packed with practical insights. Riley closes with a warm holiday message and a look ahead at what’s coming in 2026.

Topics covered: cannabis chemistry, nano THC safety, CBN for sleep, dabbing benefits, THC/CBD ratios, terpene science, talking about cannabis with family, live resin vs. live rosin, cannabis education, pharmacology, cannabis myths, and more.

Chapters

00:00 Reflecting on the Year and Future Plans

02:47 Q&A: Exploring Cannabis and Pharmacology

05:56 Creating Custom Cannabis Experiences

08:27 Understanding CBN and Its Effects

10:37 Dabbing: Benefits and Drawbacks

26:37 Understanding Dabs: Pros and Cons

29:03 Coming Out of the Green Closet

32:36 Engaging with the Cannabis Science Community

35:11 Balancing THC with CBD

38:47 THC and Seizure Treatment

41:16 Debunking the Indica vs. Sativa Myth

46:12 Vape Cartridges: Live Resin vs. Live Rosin

52:03 Using Vaped Cannabis for Edibles

VTSU Course Information:

For non-matriculated students (those not fully enrolled in VTSU), form:

https://connect.vermontstate.edu/register/NonMatricStudents

Section and Number: HUM-2710-S01, Course 1 title: Cannabis as Medicine

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Dr. Riley Kirk has Jordan River on the podcast to discuss the intricacies of indoor cannabis cultivation, sharing personal experiences and insights on various aspects of growing. They cover topics such as the challenges of transitioning plants from outdoor to indoor environments, the importance of consistency in care, effective watering techniques, and the management of temperature and light. Additionally, they delve into soil health, pest management, and the processes of harvesting, drying, and curing cannabis. The discussion emphasizes practical tips for both novice and experienced growers, highlighting the importance of observation and adaptation in successful gardening.

They also delve into various aspects of cannabis cultivation, including the peel test for assessing dryness, the benefits of co-planting with vegetables, and the critical factors in drying and curing cannabis. They also discuss outdoor growing techniques, best practices for storing cannabis, and the innovative use of CO2 enhancement in grow tents. The dialogue further explores the timing for outdoor planting, the nuances of transplanting auto flowers, and the challenges faced by growers in prohibition states. Finally, they touch on the exciting intersection of coffee and cannabis, highlighting the potential for a unique beverage experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Indoor Growing Challenges

08:17 Understanding Plant Care and Consistency

14:58 Temperature and Light Management

22:56 Watering Techniques and Best Practices

27:19 Understanding Living Soil and Its Ecosystem

29:03 Light Cycles and Their Importance in Growth

31:03 Indoor vs Outdoor Growing: Key Differences

32:37 The Debate on Bud Washing: Pros and Cons

35:39 Drying and Curing: Best Practices

40:20 The Science of Drying: Metrics That Matter

42:41 Co-Planting: Growing Food Alongside Cannabis

45:27 Pre-Harvest Moisture and Air Turbulence in Drying

50:40 Topping Outdoor Plants: Timing and Techniques

57:08 Storing Cannabis: Best Practices for Longevity

58:07 Innovative Storage Solutions for Cannabis

01:00:45 Enhancing Plant Growth with CO2 and Mushrooms

01:04:32 Best Practices for Outdoor Cannabis Growing

01:08:40 Transplanting Auto Flowers: Tips and Tricks

01:09:41 Navigating Growing in Prohibition States

01:14:52 The Intersection of Coffee and Cannabis

Take the Homegrow Survey

https://ilgm.com/resources/landing/state-of-the-homegrow

Learn More About Growcast/ Join the Community 

https://growcast.com/

Free Grow Guide from Growcast 

https://growcast.com/guide/

Follow Growcast on IG:

@Growcast

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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 and Dr. Miyabe Shields dive into the world’s largest study on infused cannabis beverages, exploring how cannabinoid-based drinkables are transforming wellness, social drinking culture, and public health. They sit down with Tyler and Kevin from MoreBetter who designed and executed this groundbreaking study.

They break down the study design, participant demographics, and key findings, including data showing a reduction in alcohol consumption, improved sleep and mental health outcomes, and insights into why consumers are turning to cannabis beverages as a safer, more accessible alternative.

The discussion also gets technical, unpacking how emulsification and formulation science influence onset, absorption, and overall product efficacy. Whether you’re a formulator, researcher, or just a curious consumer, this episode brings evidence-based clarity to one of the fastest-growing segments of the cannabis industry.

This conversation is more important than ever right now as hemp beverages are about to become illegal with the new legislation around THC in hemp products. 

 What You’ll Learn


How cannabinoid-infused beverages are reshaping the future of social consumption


Key results from the world’s largest infused drink study


What emulsification means for onset, bioavailability, and effects


The surpris


ing connection between cannabis beverages and reduced alcohol intake


How these findings could influence public policy and consumer education

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to the Study

05:01 – Study Design & Participant Demographics

15:01 – Key Findings on Alcohol Consumption

25:01 – The Science of Emulsification

35:01 – Impact on Sleep & Mental Health

45:01 – Policy & Education Implications

55:01 – Closing Thoughts & Future Directions

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Read the Full Beverage Report:

www.MoreBetter.ltd

Follow MoreBetter on social media:

@MoreBetter.ltd

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www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org 

Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk:

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Alex Eckman shares his journey in the cannabis industry, from being a medical patient to pursuing a degree in cannabis chemistry at Lake Superior State University. He discusses the evolution of cannabis education, the importance of research, and his findings on vape carts and microplastics. Alex also addresses the challenges facing the Michigan cannabis market and his aspirations for the future, emphasizing the need for education and informed decision-making in the industry.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

03:00 The Landscape of Cannabis Education

06:07 Academic vs. Industry Experience

09:05 Research Opportunities in Cannabis

11:53 Vape Cart Research and Findings

14:57 Concerns About Microplastics in Vape Products

17:57 Future Research Directions

20:55 Conclusions and Reflections

31:57 Informed Choices in Cannabis Consumption

34:06 The Importance of Research and Consumer Safety

37:14 Navigating the Cannabis Job Market

40:32 Challenges in the Michigan Cannabis Industry

43:48 Regulatory Changes and Their Impact

46:39 The Evolution of Cannabis Pricing in Michigan

51:26 Home Growing: Opportunities and Challenges

53:51 The Future of the Michigan Cannabis Market

54:31 Reflections on Experience in Ohio's Cannabis Market

57:46 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Cannabis

01:01:42 Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Optimism

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Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including MOTHER EARTH: Rooted in Nature. Back by Experience. ⁠⁠https://www.mother-earthproducts.com/ ⁠⁠

Follow Alex on social media:

@AlexEckmanCanna

CRC Video on Microplastics:

https://youtu.be/fauGztO8Z0Q?si=4Tbjkm15cVJ3tcbv

Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk:

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

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠
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CONTENT WARNING: IF YOU HAVE STRUGGLED WITH A DIFFICULT BIRTH EXPERIENCE THIS STORY MAY NOT BE BENEFICIAL TO LISTEN TO

Dr. Riley Kirk shares her postpartum journey, discussing her high-risk pregnancy due to ICP, the challenges of early induction, and her return to cannabis use for mental well-being. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, mental health, and the healing power of cannabis, while also expressing gratitude for her supportive community.

00:00 Introduction and Pregnancy Update

5:00 High-Risk Pregnancy and ICP

8:00 Managing ICP and Induction

15:00 Birth Experience and Recovery

30:00 Postpartum Challenges and Cannabis

40:27 Advocacy and Future Plans

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!

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including Botanicare:  Quality-minded growers choose Botanicare. From CalMag to CocoGro, their line supports healthy roots, heavy flowers, and serious results. Feed your plants with purpose, choose Botanicare. https://www.botanicare.com/

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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