Leah Maurer
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Articles by Leah Maurer
The Push for Cannabis Banking Reform Is No Longer Coming Only From the Cannabis Industry
For years, cannabis advocates have argued that forcing licensed marijuana businesses to operate largely in cash is bad policy. Dispensaries, cultivators, manufacturers, and ancillary companies have long struggled to access checking accounts, loans, payroll services, and basic financial tools that nearly every other legal business takes for granted. Now, one of the nation’s most influential banking organizations is making the same case.
New Cannabis Research Challenges How We Think About the Entourage Effect
For years, cannabis patients, consumers, and advocates have pointed to the “entourage effect” as one of the strongest arguments for choosing whole-plant cannabis over isolated cannabinoids. The basic premise has always been compelling: cannabis is more than just THC or CBD. It is a remarkably complex plant containing hundreds of naturally occurring compounds—including terpenes, minor cannabinoids, and flavonoids—that work together to shape each variety’s unique effects.
New Study Adds to Growing Evidence That Medical Cannabis Improves Quality of Life for Chronic Pain Patients
For decades, chronic pain patients have described something that traditional pain scales often fail to capture: improving quality of life can be just as important as reducing pain itself. A newly published study examining participants in Minnesota’s medical cannabis program adds another layer of evidence to a growing body of research showing that cannabis can help patients regain enjoyment of daily life, improve functioning, and better manage chronic pain symptoms.
How Cannabis Has Become a Multi-Billion-Dollar Economic Engine for America
For decades, cannabis was treated as a criminal justice issue rather than an economic opportunity. Today, that narrative has changed dramatically. Across the United States, legal cannabis has emerged as one of the most successful new industries of the modern era, generating billions of dollars in tax revenue, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs, and providing states with a reliable source of funding for public programs.
Can Federal Cannabis Rescheduling Revive the Medical Marijuana Industry?
For years, medical marijuana programs served as the foundation of the legal cannabis industry in the United States. But as more states launched adult-use markets, many patients abandoned medical programs in favor of easier access through recreational dispensaries. Now, federal cannabis rescheduling has reopened a debate across the industry: Could medical marijuana be poised for a resurgence?
Missouri Cannabis Sales Continue Strong Run Despite Market Maturation
Missouri’s cannabis industry remained one of the strongest adult-use markets in the Midwest during May, generating more than $130 million in combined medical and recreational marijuana sales as the state’s market continues to mature. While growth has slowed compared to the explosive gains seen immediately after legalization, Missouri operators are still benefiting from consistent consumer demand and a stable retail environment.
Cannifest 2026 Heads to Arcata Ball Park with a Packed Weekend of Community Events
Cannifest is entering a new chapter in 2026! Humboldt County’s long-running cannabis and community festival will relocate to the historic Arcata Ball Park for its 11th annual gathering, bringing two days of live music, cannabis culture, education, art, and family-friendly activities to the heart of Arcata on September 12-13. Organizers officially unveiled the festival’s music lineup on April 20, confirming legendary keyboardist Melvin Seals & JGB as this year’s headlining act.
Protecting Oregon’s Edible Market: Why We Must Stop SB 1548
As a longtime advocate for the plant and the community that surrounds it, I have seen Oregon’s cannabis industry weather many storms. We’ve built a world-class regulated market that prioritizes consumer safety, small business growth, and high-quality craft products. However, a new piece of legislation—Senate Bill 1548—threatens to dismantle the progress we’ve made. This bill isn’t just a “tweak” to the rules; it is a direct assault on our local processors and a step backward for public safety.
The Power 100: Honoring Black Leaders Who Laid the Foundation for Cannabis Reform
As the legal cannabis sector continues to mature—marked by increased professionalization, consolidation, and global expansion—an essential question remains unresolved: who laid the groundwork for today’s industry, and what sacrifices were made along the way?
Justice Deferred: Cannabis is now a Schedule III Controlled Substance
Cannabis is NOT legal. And the fight is far from over. Yesterday, President Trump signed an Executive Order directing the Attorney General to expedite rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III. To the casual observer, this looks like victory. To those of us who have spent years in advocacy, documenting the racist criminalization of cannabis, it feels like a transaction. While this move may open the floodgates for research and banking, it leaves the most vulnerable members of our community behind.
Calling All Cannabis Entrepreneurs: Apply for the NuProject Funding Growth Cohort
NuProject, in partnership with Prosper Portland, has opened applications for the Funding Growth Cohort — a free, six-month business development program designed for founders working in Oregon’s licensed and regulated market. The cohort provides targeted support in financial systems, capital readiness, and operational strategy, helping entrepreneurs strengthen and scale in an industry where access to resources remains limited.
MJBizCon 2025 Recap and Event Highlights
It has been almost a week since MJBizCon concluded. This week continues to be an annual pilgrimage for many (including myself) to seek ongoing networking and relationship building, as well as what more this industry can offer. Each year, I am blown away by the creativity and innovation that I witness at this event.
Inside Portland’s First Best in Weed Week
As Portland prepares for Best in Weed Week, happening December 8–14, 2025, the city is gearing up to celebrate one of Oregon’s most defining industries—cannabis. Hosted and promoted by Willamette Week, this weeklong event spotlights award-winning growers, innovative brands, and the dispensaries that have made the Portland area a true cannabis destination.
Blunt Brunch Nationals 2025: Pearled Up and Powerful in Las Vegas
The highly anticipated Blunt Brunch Nationals returns to Las Vegas on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, bringing together women in cannabis for an unforgettable evening of empowerment, networking, and celebration. This year’s event, themed “Pearled Up and Powerful,” is proudly empowered by MJBizCon and with headlining support from Curaleaf and Pomonio Injury Law.
MJBizCon 2025: What to Expect & How to Make the Most of It
Mark your calendars — MJBizCon 2025 is coming up December 2–5 in Las Vegas, and for those in the cannabis and hemp industries, it’s easily the key event of the year. Below is a full guide to highlights, programming, expo floor features, ticketing, and collaborative experiences you won’t want to miss. MJBizCon is the largest B2B cannabis business conference and trade show in the world.
Nation's Leading Cannabis Educators from Oaksterdam University to Teach In Virginia
As Virginia navigates its unique position with legal cannabis but no safe access or commercial sales, the need for trusted, reliable education on home cultivation and consumption has never been greater. To fill this critical gap, Oaksterdam University, the nation’s premier cannabis educator, is bringing its expertise directly to the Mid-Atlantic region.
Cannifest 2025 Community Event to Host String Cheese Incident in Humboldt
Humboldt Green Events, producers of Cannifest, are excited to announce the return of Humboldt County’s signature cannabis culture festival this Labor Day Weekend, August 30–31, 2025, at Halverson Waterfront Park. This year’s edition will mark Cannifest’s 10th anniversary, promising an unforgettable weekend of world-class music, community connection, and celebration of the plant that has shaped Humboldt’s culture.
Attend the Headstash Bowl in NYC
Powered by Cannifest, The Headstash Bowl is a premier cannabis community competition open to all those over the age of 21. With categories for homegrowers and rosin makers, both non-commercial and commercial, The Headstash Bowl is an opportunity for cannabis producers to win cash, prizes, bragging rights, and the coveted Headstash Bowl trophy. Each Headstash bowl is accompanied by an awards party where the winners are crowned and where we meet, greet, and party the night away.
Anticipation Grows for the CMB Expo 2025
Cannabis Means Business (CMB), the premier business to business conference and expo, announces that registration is now open for its highly anticipated 2025 event. Taking place June 4-5, 2025 at the Javits Convention Center In New York City, the epicenter of commerce and innovation, CMB will bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts from across the rapidly growing cannabis sector.
40 Tons Brings "Justice Row" to NECANN Boston, Paving the Way for Justice-Impacted Entrepreneurs
40 Tons, the multi-state, social impact cannabis brand dedicated to justice and equity, is bringing its groundbreaking Justice Row activation to NECANN Boston 2025, taking place March 21-22 at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts. Justice Row ensures that justice-impacted entrepreneurs—those who have paid the highest price for cannabis while others profit—are no longer left behind.
Highlights from MJBizCon 2024
It’s been a couple weeks since MJBizCon 2024 concluded, but many of us are still riding high from the energy and hustle of this one of a kind event! MJBizCon, the largest B2B cannabis event in the world, welcomed attendees at it’s 13th annual event at the Las Vegas Convention Center last week on the heels of the first hearing to reschedule cannabis.
MJBizCon 2024 Preview
As the end of November approaches you can feel the buzz amongst cannabis industry circles about the yearly pilgrimage we all make to Las Vegas for MJ BizCon. Regardless of any one’s personal feelings about the conference and it’s plethora of both on and onsite events that surround “Las Vegas Cannabis Week” as it has been coined, no one can argue about the reach the event has and the sheer scale of cannabis industry conversations and connections that have happened there every year since 2012.
MJBizCon 2024 Preview
Last Modified: November 26, 2024 Culture Cannabis continues to be on the ballot consistently, and the 2024 presidential election was proof of that once again. Despite the mixed results on election Read More » 1 Comment Culture Halloween—or as we prefer to call it, Halloweed—is only days away.
Support for Cannabis Legalization Stays Strong Amid Election Night Challenges
Cannabis continues to be on the ballot consistently, and the 2024 presidential election was proof of that once again. Despite the mixed results on election night, public support for legalizing cannabis remains near its all-time high and momentum in favor of reforming America’s failed cannabis criminalization policies continues to grow.. An overwhelming share of U.S. adults (88%) say marijuana should be legal for medical or adult use.
America's Broken Prison System: A Call for Urgent Reform
The state of America’s prison system is one of the most pressing social justice issues today, closely tied to the War on Drugs. The staggering statistics surrounding mass incarceration and the privatization of prisons highlight the urgent need for reform.
Understanding Terpenes and the Effects of Cannabis Strains on the Body
One of the most challenging aspects of cannabis consumption is determining how specific strains will affect each individual. This is largely because everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique, leading to varying interactions with cannabis. For instance, one strain might induce drowsiness in one person while sparking creativity in another. Traditionally, cannabis consumers classified strains based on whether they were Indica or Sativa.
The Best DIY Cannabis Themed Halloween Costumes
Halloween—or as we prefer to call it, Halloweed—is only days away. If you’re looking for a costume that’s sure to turn heads, why not go with a cannabis-themed one? Not only are they fun and unique, but they’re also relatively easy to make at home. Dressing in a cannabis-themed costume is a great way to show your support for the community and to raise awareness about cannabis legalization and reform.
The War on Drugs and Its Repercussions: A New Era for Cannabis Justice
I have been a cannabis advocate since before I began my journey in the cannabis industry, and I can still tie every hat I wear (and have ever worn) in the industry back to advocacy. It is essential that cannabis industry professionals and cannabis consumers are aware of the dark history of the war on drugs and the role that the cannabis has played in it.
Justice for Edwin Rubis: A Call for His Immediate Release
Edwin Rubis has been serving a federal prison sentence for over two decades for his involvement in a nonviolent cannabis offense. His story has become a powerful symbol of the injustice many face due to outdated and draconian drug laws in the United States. As states continue to legalize cannabis and the public sentiment shifts in favor of reform, Edwin’s case highlights the urgent need for change and the continued fight to release those still incarcerated for nonviolent cannabis-related crimes.
Understanding Cannabis and Sleep: THC, CBD, and CBN Explained
With cannabis legalization expanding across the U.S., cannabis-infused sleep products have become a popular natural remedy for those struggling with sleep issues. The key compounds in cannabis, known as cannabinoids—especially THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), and CBN (cannabinol)—interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a significant role in sleep regulation.
The Minority Cannabis Business Association's Equity Workshop Tour 2024 Continues to Empower Communities and Foster Inclusion
The Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA) is currently in the midst of its highly anticipated Equity Workshop Tour 2024. This tour aims to empower minority entrepreneurs and advocates within the cannabis industry through a series of workshops designed to address the unique challenges they face. MCBA, a leading national nonprofit organization, continues its mission to create equal access and economic empowerment for marginalized communities in the burgeoning cannabis sector.
Mastering the Art of Smoking a Pre-Roll
Ready to enjoy that perfectly rolled pre-roll you’ve been saving? Whether you’re lighting up for the first time or looking to refine your technique, knowing how to properly smoke a pre-roll can make all the difference. This guide will take you through the essential steps to ensure an even burn, smooth inhales, and a consistently enjoyable experience every time you spark up.
How to Pack a Pre-rolled Cone
Mastering the Art of Packing Pre-Rolled Cones for the Perfect Smoke Pre-rolled cones have revolutionized the way cannabis enthusiasts enjoy their favorite herb. They simplify the joint-making process, making it more accessible for both novices and those who prefer a quicker, more convenient smoking session. But packing a pre-roll can be intimidating for smokers who are used to purchasing pre-packed joints.
Mother's Day Cannabis Gift Guide 2024
This year get mom exactly what she wants…the best cannabis gifts! While I would always encourage you to support your local dispensary and grab mom all the best cannabis products on the market, of course there are other fun things that are just the perfect gifts for the stoner mama(s) in your life.
MCBA Equity Workshop Tour: Elevating an Equitable Cannabis Industry in 25+ Cities
I am thrilled to share that The Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA) has announced their continued advocacy through their Equity Workshop Tour project to focus on having meaningful discussions with advocates and cannabis industry professionals about equity in the cannabis sector. Social equity in cannabis is reparative justice for the Black and Brown communities most harmed by cannabis prohibition.
The Ultimate Stoner Dream Job: Get Paid To Smoke Weed as a Cannabis Content Creator
Have you ever wanted to get paid to smoke weed? Well, now you can! The value that a consumer can bring in terms of insight and experience when smoking cannabis is immeasurable, and you may be the perfect person to do just that! Custom Cones USA, the leading and most trusted manufacturer of pre rolled cones, today announced an exciting campaign for the company’s new direct-to-consumer brand DaySavers, the most compliant and tested rolling paper brand in the market.
Best Cannabis Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2024
It’s that time of year when we all profess our love to what we enjoy the most…cannabis! Ok well, maybe to our sweethearts on Valentine’s Day too.
Oregon Legislative BIPOC Caucus Prioritizes House Bill 4041
Today, Oregon’s Legislative Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Caucus, members of the legislature with a shared mission to advance racial justice initiatives and eliminate systemic oppression and racism in Oregon, announced their top priorities for the 2024 Legislative Session, including support of Oregon HB 4041.
NJ Business Action Center Announces Instructors for Cannabis Training Academy
As the cannabis landscape continues to evolve and take shape in the New Jersey market, there are many points to consider with the implementation of new regulations and the newly legalized industry. One of these points is supporting the industry professionals (and industry hopefuls) who were most impacted by the racist criminalization of cannabis.
Rescheduling vs. Descheduling Cannabis: A Comprehensive Understanding
There has been a lot of discussion around the recent conversations taking place at the federal level in the United States regarding the rescheduling of cannabis. Currently, cannabis is a Schedule I substance and is not accepted for medicinal use by America’s federal government. However, as consumers and medical marijuana patients in our country have found for decades now, there are absolutely medical properties to this plant.
ACHEM Launches Innovative Freedom Initiative with Major Support from The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation
The Association for Cannabis Health Equity and Medicine (ACHEM) is the leading voice in medical cannabis advocacy for people of color, and they have taken yet another big step as they continue to design strategies to restore the communities harmed most by cannabis prohibition.
Best Gifts of 2023 for the Holidaze
I like to give great cannabis gifts all year round, but the holidays offer us all a time to find the best cannabis gifts for our favorite stoners. Whether you are looking for gifts for a new cannabis consumer or a cannabis enthusiast, this list is sure to meet your holiday gifting needs.
MjBizCon 2023 Recap
The event may be over until next year, but the energy and inspiration are still lingering for many of us after MjBizCon 2023. It just gets bigger every year! MJBizCon, the largest B2B cannabis event in the world, was again hosted at the Las Vegas Convention Center last month. The 12th annual MJBizCon welcomed tens of thousands of cannabis professionals for the $34 billion industry’s premier event.
MJBizCon 2023 Preview
Those who have operated in cannabis for many years have various things to say about MJ Biz Con, but no one can argue the fact that this event pioneered the space of cannabis expos catered specifically to businesses and various platforms operating in our industry…and that hasn’t changed! MJ BIz Con continues to be the largest marijuana business conference in the world (scroll to the bottom for a peep into the past!) in the B2B part of the market.
Mother’s Day 2023 Cannabis Gift Guide
Mother’s Day is right around the corner and, whoever the mom(s) are in your life, I hope you are celebrating them! This gift guide has several cannabis themed gifts that are sure to please mom, whether she is a stoner or not! Of course, I would encourage you to support your local dispensary or cannabis retail shop to stock up on some goodies for Mother’s Day as well…it is important to support your local cannabis brands! However, if you want a little extra, these unique and innovative cannabis...
Talking to Your Children About Cannabis
As our children become teens and grow into young adults, the dialogue about cannabis should be more open and frequent, especially in light of changing cannabis policy and the emerging cannabis industry. With resources and tools, teens and young adults can gain knowledge and make their own health decisions objectively.
Canndigenous: Quality Hemp with Advocacy at the Core
With the mission of honoring Native American heritage and supporting indigenous people by responsibly growing, sourcing, producing, and providing the high quality CBD products in order to offer healthy lifestyle choices, and natural, alternative wellness solutions, Cannidigenous is truly a one of a kind purpose driven company.
Support Economic Justice in Oregon: Public Hearing on HB 3431 on March 21st
It is imperative that we continue to fight for economic justice for all Oregonians, but especially for those communities who were targeted by the racist criminalization of cannabis in our state for decades. The Oregon Economic Equity Investment Fund will do exactly that.
How To Archives - Sweet Jane
Cannabis-Infused Topicals: How and What to Use by | Mar 16, 2023 | How To In the beauty industry and topical pain relief market, cannabis and CBD have been big buzzwords over the past several years. This is no surprise since the known benefits of cannabis fit in with many of our current wants and obsessions—natural beauty, stress relief,... How-To Take a Dab by | Oct 25, 2022 | How To What is a dab?
Leaf Brief Podcast: Episode 3
Next month marks one full year of sanctioned recreational cannabis sales in New Mexico and it’s probably not a stretch to assume many parents of young children have become more comfortable strolling into their local weed spots without a fake mustache and sunglasses. Lots of us with youngins already know that maiden voyage to snag some legal buds is only the beginning of navigating the post-legalization world as a parent.
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