CULTURE TRADITION PASSION
Cannabis Is Love
WEEKLY CULTURE TRADITION PASSION
P7: Incarcerated: Derek Colunga
P10: Photo of the Week: Derrall Peach
P13: Did You Know?
P14: Life Changing Inventions by Black Americans
P15: Infused! w/Breanna Neff Interviewed by Lisa Marie
P19: Podcasts
P21: Couples in Cannabis w/ JT & Becca Johnson
P27: CannaHumans w/Amanda Ferron
P31: The Power of Activated Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extracts: Why Keeping Nature’s Balance Boosts the Plant’s Healing Abilities by Daniel Gana & Abraham Benavides, MD
P34: GLazed - Ethan Peterson
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Kyea Mofire
Remember who loved you when no one else did.
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Laura Alessia
This interview series gives voice to incarcerated individuals convicted of cannabisrelated offenses, shedding light on their stories and the ridiculousness of the criminal in-justice system. Through candid conversations, participants share their personal experiences, the impact of their convictions on their lives, and the broader societal consequences of cannabis prohibition. The series aims to humanize those affected, offering insight into the disparities in sentencing, ongoing inequities, and the evolving legal landscape surrounding cannabis. It serves as a way to raise awareness about the everlasting fight for justice while pointing out the hypocrisy and the need for reform in drug laws.
Incarcerated Derek Colunga
FNM: How old were you when you were sentenced to serve time?
Derek: I was arrested at age 29. I was raided in 2011 by Law Net, a Michigan state task force. We had 200 1’’ clones in a tray that put us over our limit We were told we could chain caregivers together to grow more plants than the allowed 72. We had cards for over 300 plants. They were never introduced into evidence.
FNM: How much of your sentence did you serve?
Derek: I was raided and the state waited 4 months to officially charge us. Longest period of my life. I fought it via Cannabis Counsel the great Matt Able for over 3 years Of which I was on bond and had to pee 3 times a week for the 3 years. Then I was placed on felony probation for five years of which
FNM: What was the hardest part of your sentence?
Derek: The hardest part of the whole thing is I was trying to be legal. I had paid for a lawyer's advice to make sure we were legal They were at the time raiding growers and taking everything including putting children into the system. I rented a commercial building to keep it away from my family (my 2 young nephews were living with me) and my partner had 4 small children
FNM: Are you still a part of the cannabis industry today? In what capacity?
Derek: Yes sir. I now own/operate a small licensed farm Family Trees of which I am a social equity member giving me a 50% reduction of permit fees with the state I loved the plant and growing it so much that even though I
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Derral Peach
Did You Know?
Black History Month originated in 1926 as "Negro History Week" by historian Carter G. Woodson, chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two figures pivotal to the history of African Americans. Woodson’s aim was to raise awareness about the history and culture of Black people, which was often neglected in mainstream education.
In 1976, the celebration expanded to a full month under President Gerald Ford, encouraging Americans to recognize the central role African Americans have played in shaping the nation. Each year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) selects a theme for Black History Month, highlighting specific aspects of Black history and culture.
The month is not just about remembering the struggles and hardships endured by African Americans, but also celebrating the countless contributions made in various fields such as science, art, literature, politics, and entertainment. Figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, Valerie Thomas, and countless others have shaped not only American history but global culture.
Black History Month serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity, equality, and the ongoing pursuit of justice, ensuring that the stories of Black Americans continue to be told and celebrated.
Life changing Inventions by Black Americans
Valerie Thomas 3D Imaging
Valerie Thomas is a pioneering African American scientist and inventor, best known for her groundbreaking work in developing 3D imaging technology. In the 1980s, she invented the illusion transmitter, a device that could create three-dimensional images, revolutionizing fields like television, medical imaging, and virtual reality. As a NASA scientist, Thomas made significant contributions to satellite technology and data systems. Throughout her career, Thomas broke barriers in a male-dominated field, inspiring future generations of women, particularly women of color, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Her legacy continues to impact innovation and diversity in STEM fields today.
Breanna Neff Founder of Brelixi Wellness Solutions Infused!
Interviewed by: Lisa Marie
Breanna Neff is a rising star in the cannabis beverage industry. After feeling uninspired by the existing offerings in the market, Breanna set out to create beverages that were convenient, reliable, and health-focused She mixed her passion for food science with her affinity for plant medicine, and her “Highly Functional” brand, Brelixi, was born
But Brelixi is about more than just convenient and delicious THC and CBD beverages and infused powders Read on to learn more about Breanna’s vision for the future of Brelixi and her role as an innovator in the ever-expanding legal cannabis market.
FNM: Can you describe the process that led to the creation of the Brelixi powders?
Breanna: As a food scientist and daily cannabis consumer, I’ve been interested in nutrition, flavor, and the latest products on the market. I’ve had my eyes on what's new and innovative And it's been my goal since studying at Cornell to be more involved in the cannabis industry.
In New York, when the 2020 legalization regulations came into play, I was interested to see how I could be a part of that kind of renaissance and that energy. I was attracted to Nano THC as an ingredient because it's so efficacious and the fact that you could feel effects fast, and pairing it with things like electrolytes and adaptogens that also help speed up hydration and keep you relaxed inspired me to bring products like that to the market.
Based on my research, I discovered that lightweight stick packs would be attractive to consumers because they're convenient and simple to transport I wanted something super convenient, super tasty, packed with functional benefits and organic ingredients. Brelixi flavored drink mix powders were created to check off all those boxes.
FNM: There are many available options in the cannabis beverage industry for consumers. What makes Brelixi unique, setting it apart from everything else?
We launched Brelixi in 2023, the market already had many innovative edible products. There was a huge wave and increase of ready-to-drink hemp beverages or THC-infused beverages. Brelixi’s uniqueness is its strong tie to my ideas and how I carefully curated all the formulas myself Our use of nanotechnology provides consumers with one of the healthiest ways to consume cannabis. Nanotechnology puts less stress on your digestive system than larger non-nano cannabis or nanoemulsified processes. Brelixi products offer a healthier, more convenient, and reliable way to consume cannabis beverages.
I also believe it’s essential to be consistent when your products have psychoactive effects I’m surprised there are so many misleading packaging statements and suspicious products in the current market.
FNM: What challenges have you faced as a woman in the cannabis industry?
Breanna: There is a stigma and a level of risk averseness associated with the cannabis industry, which is understandable in the traditional venture capital sense. Unfortunately, as a woman and a small business owner who's fundraising, it's super challenging to raise capital And when you consider the fact that less than 2 percent of women-owned companies get venture capital year after year, it’s discouraging. Hopefully, things will begin to change in the future
FNM: What would you like to share about the future of Brelixi and how things have been progressing for you since last year after your launch?
Breanna: Brelixi has experienced remarkable growth since our launch last year We're not just about creating exceptional nano-cannabis products only. We've expanded to offer comprehensive support to other businesses in the wellness space through Brelixi Wellness Solutions. This new venture allows us to share our expertise and passion for creating high-quality, innovative products.
“Sometimes, when I go into a dispensary that I hear is inclusive with their inventory and marketing messaging, I can only find 2 or 3 products out of 80 that come from women-owned, black-owned, or queer-owned companies.”
We offer a full suite of services, from R&D and formulation to regulatory guidance and production support We're a one-stop shop for anyone looking to develop and launch their own wellness products. Our team has a proven track record, having worked with renowned brands like Daily Harvest, Hydrant, and Dannon.
We're particularly excited to leverage our deep knowledge of nano-cannabis technology to help other companies in the cannabis, beauty, and pet care industries create truly unique and effective products. Whether it's through custom formulation, white-labeling our existing technology, or simply providing guidance on ingredient sourcing and dosing, we're committed to empowering our partners
This expansion reflects Brelixi's dedication to becoming a leader in the wellness industry. We're confident that Brelixi Wellness Solutions will thrive, and we're actively seeking strategic alliances and investment to accelerate our growth further.
FNM: If there was one thing that you could change about this industry, what would it be?
Breanna: There have been many cannabis industry folks and establishments who have spoken about supporting DEI measures and claim to be intentional in trying to favor or provide opportunities for folks from marginalized communities. I would love to see companies genuinely live up to those types of statements and ethos that they've been saying that they support Unfortunately, it's clear that they haven't fully incorporated this substantive inclusion of marginalized companies. It's shocking and upsetting to see, even though it's pretty common.
Sometimes, when I go into a dispensary that I hear is inclusive with their inventory and marketing messaging, I can only find 2 or 3 products out of 80 that come from womenowned, black-owned, or queer-owned companies. I’d love to see dispensaries standing by their words and their mission to make those numbers increase For the narrative to shift, I believe the power to create change lies with the customers. When they ask for more diverse and inclusive offerings and the dispensaries respond, that’s when the real change will happen.
Stay up to date on Breanna’s Brelixi journey by following her on socials and website:
@brelixi and @breannathefoodscientist
Breanna Neff, CFS, PCQI
Websites
Brelixi com
Brelixi Wellness Solutions
photo by Derral Peach
Podcasts we listen to and support in 2025
Interview By Derral Peach
s meant to be an inspiring new interview series that celebrates dynamic duos in the cannabis industry. The series highlights couples who are working together to turn their shared passion for the plant into thriving businesses and successful ventures. By showcasing the unique journeys of these pairs, Couples In Cannabis provides a platform for couples to share their stories, challenges, and triumphs, all while emphasizing the power of collaboration, dedication, and love for the cannabis community. It's a heartfelt tribute to the couples who are building their dreams, side by side, in the evolving world of cannabis.
Jt and Becca Johnson
Personal & Professional Background
FNM: How did each of you get started in the cannabis industry, and what led you to where you are today?
Johnsons: From 2010-2015 We were home growers/processors
Jt was working as a sales manager for a hydroponic shop and I was working as a pastry chef In 2012 Jt was offered a job as the first grow technician for Omaha Farms. A new grow facility being built for Monarch dispensary in Scottsdale. Once Jt was established within his role as a lead grower, I made the career switch and started working as a grow technician as well. From there, we were both able to learn about large scale production of both grow and manufacturing
FNM: What inspired you to build careers in cannabis, and how do your roles complement each other?
Johnsons: We were both always stoners. During high school we both bought, used, and sold weed regularly. We both became medical patients following the pass of prop 203 in 2010. That granted us the rights to grow our meds at home until the dispensaries were able to establish. Home growing gave us the ability to learn as much as possible. Jt was able to experiment with different growing techniques and I learned how to integrate cannabis into my current career as a chef.
FNM: What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced individually and as a couple in this industry?
Johnsons: The biggest and most consistent hurdle we’ve experienced so far to date is our age. People often tend to write us off because we are young. Medical cannabis became legal in AZ when we were just out of high school. We had an opportunity most didn't, to START our career path in medical cannabis. As a couple, I'd say we had to learn about work and home life balance. Leaving the stresses of work at work
Balancing Work & Relationship
FNM: How do you maintain a healthy balance between business and personal life when working together in such a demanding field?
Johnsons: ts relative easy, with work life we can relate to one another's work issues, pressures and goals. And with home we have our focus on quality time with our son. Same conservations, different topics
FNM: Do you set boundaries between work and home life, or does cannabis always find its way into conversation?
Johnsons: We have a lot going on in our home life Jt lives and works long distance, and we have an 8 year old autistic son. So we try to keep our focus on family whenever we can. Most “work” related calls are between 9-5. Cannabis rarely makes its way into the conversation unless we're talking about our own personal meds or recalling something from work that day.
FNM: How do your professional strengths support each other’s success in the industry?
Johnsons: I think that one of our biggest strengths is that we trust and appreciate each other's perspectives on things. We’re often able to help the other come to a resolution. JTs extremely logical and pragmatic, I am more innovative and chaotic I think we're both able to bring a certain level of idea and execution to the table that most can't. We've also been in many different role dynamics at work. We have a mutual respect for one another's input and decisions.
Industry & Business Insights
FNM: From an operations perspective, what are the key factors in producing high-quality cannabis?
Johnsons: Developed processes and procedures, quality input(ingredients) , discipline and a positive company culture. Happy workers make the best quality, hands down!
FNM: As a chef, what excites you most about working with cannabis in the culinary world?
Becca: With recreational cannabis in play, the access to quality infused ingredients is sky rocketing. From honey and oils to hot sauce and sugar. The idea of anyone being able to go into their “pot pantry” and whip up an infused meal to their dietary and dosing discretion is absolutely empowering to the patient or customer.
Innovation & Future Goals
FNM: What’s one project or goal you’re currently working on that you’re excited about?
Johnsons: One of my current brands is going through a redesign of YummyGummy to YG. That process has been strenuous but exciting. And our living soil grow is about to launch two new flower brands to AZ market
FNM: How do you stay ahead in such a rapidly changing industry?
Johnsons: You gotta keep your ear to the ground. Networking is key. If you know people, you get to know the info. Being very flexible and willing to turn on a dime are a must. Most people can't keep up in this industry. It takes a lot of fortitude and problem solving.
FNM: Do you see yourself expanding beyond cannabis, or is this industry your long-term vision?
Johnsons: We've been here for 15 years, I can definitely see another 15 years. But we'll see how the industry turns out.
Personal & Fun Questions
FNM: If you could share a cannabis-infused meal with anyone (living or dead), who would it be and why?
Becca: My dad. He passed before we were able to transition from black market to a fully legal cannabis career. It would blow his mind what we were capable of today and everything Jt and I were able to do from a couple of plants.
FNM: What’s in your stash right now?
Johnsons: We've been smoking on White runts and Ronnyburger Achieve live resin dab pens(Blockberry) and i always have YG gummies.
and let that shit go. and let that shit go.
C a n n a h u m a n s
Amanda Ferron
FNM: When and how were you first introduced to cannabis?
Amanda: I knew what cannabis was from a pretty young age... Though back then, it was little-kid me watching "Cheech and Chong" with my Dad, listening to his "That's 70's show"-esq stories about him as a teenager in Wisconsin, smoking weed with his buddies in their basements But I started consuming Cannabis at age 15. I've struggled with anxiety and stomach issues my whole life. (I got my first stress ulcer in the 4th grade.) I had friends who smoked. And when I finally tried it, I realized how much it eased my anxiety and tummy issues! I was calmer, my stomach didn't hurt and I was actually hungry! Cannabis was like a miracle for me I'd never felt such relief
FNM: What do you focus on in the industry?
Amanda: A few different things, but overall I think it would be Cannabis Normalization. My work with PayRio allows me to help Cannabis businesses normalize their payment processing My blog, For:20 Minutes, (hopefully) helps normalize cannabis use by highlighting different topics, people, and brands within the community, making them relatable or understandable to the average person. And last but not least, Budtending at Lytt in Pacifica helps me normalize cannabis use through direct contact with consumers. Educating people about Cannabis, its different consumption methods, and guiding them to have a safe and healthy relationship with the plant helps normalize its use Even in my spare time, I love talking to people about our Endocannabinoid System, or chatting with parents about approaching the subject of Cannabis with your children (most of the time they have an alcoholic beverage in their hand... which is so funny to me.). I talk about Cannabis as often as possible in my everyday life with anyone who will listen Cannabis normalization is the goal!
FNM: In your opinion, what is the most important thing about cannabis legalization?
Amanda: Getting human beings out of cages who have had their lives taken away for nonviolent cannabis "crimes" No one should be sitting in jail, especially not for FORTY YEARS, for Cannabis. Period. DEscheduling and DEcriminalization are the things we need the most. #FreeEdwinRubis
FNM: How has cannabis positively impacted your life?
Amanda: In more ways than I can count. Cannabis helps me live a full life. It helps me be a more involved, focused person and parent. My stomach issues are crippling, and my anxiety is ridiculous Cannabis eases both of those things so I am able to function normally Plus, it brought me a community of people that I now consider family. Some of the most incredible people I've ever met, I've met through either the Cannabis industry or the Cannabis community. I am forever grateful to the plant for many reasons.
FNM: If there was one thing you could change about the cannabis industry, what would that be?
Amanda: Tough question! I think I would have to repeat an earlier sentiment and say the one thing I would change would be the legal status of Cannabis on a federal level. We need to deschedule and decriminalize the plant, and free the people sitting in a jail/prison cell for non-violent cannabis "offenses" That is the #1 thing I would change about the industry.
Amanda Ferron
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Kyea Mofire
The Power of Activated Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extracts: Why Keeping Nature’s Balance Boosts the Plant’s Healing Abilities
by Daniel Gana & Abraham Benavides,MD
As hemp products are getting more popular, many companies now sell products labeled "full spectrum" which are in fact a few isolated cannabinoids with terpenes sourced from other plants. While these products may appear as full-spectrum, they aren’t the same as getting the full benefits from the whole cannabis plant with a full blend of compounds.
The cannabis plant is special because it has about 750 different compounds, including 120 cannabinoids, 200 terpenes, and some flavonoids. These compounds work together uniquely to enhance each other's effects.
This “teamwork” is called the entourage effect. It's what makes the plant effective for health benefits and reduces the side effects of psychoactive compounds like THC
This teamwork is absent when cannabis compounds are isolated and may affect its overall effect on the body.
Scientists have studied this effect and found that using the whole plant for health benefits is more effective than just using single compounds. Wholeplant extracts are especially helpful for conditions like epilepsy, migraines, and multiple sclerosis. By learning how the natural combination of compounds in cannabis works, we can better understand why products that maintain this balance give better results than those made from isolates.
Why Whole-Plant Products Are Better Natural Balance of Terpenes and Cannabinoids
When cannabinoids are paired with terpenes from other plants, their benefits may be less powerful than when they come directly from the cannabis plant. Each cannabis strain has a unique blend of terpenes and cannabinoids that support each other in the body. This natural mix creates stronger effects for pain relief, reducing anxiety, and other therapeutic benefits.
Some scientists believe this improved effect is because cannabinoids and terpenes come from the same compound, known as geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP). GPP is a precursor for both terpenoids (like myrcene, pinene, and limonene) and cannabinoids (like THC and CBD).
Cannabinoids and terpenes develop together in just the right ratios and electronic configuration for maximum impact. This balance isn’t something you can easily recreate by adding terpenes from other plants. This is a feat only nature has been able to achieve, and now you know why cannabis strains produce different effects on users.
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Cannabis Is Love
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