MATT BARNES, NBA CHAMPION, PLOTS A NEW WORLD FOR HIS COUNTRY WITH CHRONIC, GRACE AND KINDNESS
HEALTH AND WELLNESS IS PEACE AND LOVE
L.A. KUSH CAKE BY
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BARNES IS NOBLE
Matt Barnes was a rugged 15 year NBA veteran who emerged post-retirement as a commentator, spokesperson for cannabis reform, frank conversations about race and CEO of All the Smoke Productions, the leading NBA podcast. Ahead of the release of Black Mark, his award-winning short film about surviving a teenaged hate crime, Ben Kaplan, editor of KIND, spoke with Barnes at his Sacramento home.
Matt Barnes, at 44, has big dreams. His post-retirement life has already surpassed his wildest expectations but, between the American election, Kamala in a landslide he predicts, his film release and an eye on a political career in California, the activist-hooper is first having another baby. He sounds as excited as a little kid.
“Post-career, I never thought it would be this amazing,” says Barnes, after a charity golf game and as his children bounce around the room. “When you play professional sports for fifteen years, that next chapter is normally scary—there really isn’t
even a next chapter for guys that have been programmed and disciplined for so long—but I feel like my life’s just started. I tell my kids all the time that we’ve been blessed.”
The star of the documentary short film Black Mark wasn’t always blessed, and Barnes is careful in how he teaches his kids—and the world—his story. At 17, Barnes was a star athlete at Del Campo High School and, after a racist incident involving his sister escalating after Barnes retaliated, and then escalated again after the KKK got involved, the young Barnes had to carry the weight of a race war on his back. Since his parents were
Satisfy Your Soul in Jamaica on the Bob Marley Tour
both active drug users and his household often roiled with violence, the teenaged Barnes learned quickly how lopsided justice can be.
“I never cried when making the film, but my sons are 15 and what happened to me occurred just two years on from where they are in their life. I couldn’t imagine them going through what I went through,” says Barnes, who won the NBA Championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and had Draymond Green bring the hometown crowd to its feet upon announcing his retirement. Barnes played with the Los Angeles
Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, the Knicks, Suns and Orlando Magic. He moved from team to team, building up his reputation for doing the things needed to win. In the film, Snoop Dogg describes him as a “gangster.” What Snoop meant was Matt Barnes was hard, which was a result of him doing whatever it took to stay in the league. He went hard because basketball was a dream he wasn’t willing to let go of, whatever it takes. But back when he was a kid growing up, he held out hope that things would get better—for his family, for his teammates, and for the rest of the world, which only seems to be embroiled in more hatred and anger in these dark days of American politics.
“I went overboard making sure my family is humble. Gratitude is something none of us ever forget.”
“I always thought one day, maybe it was immaturity, but I believed we’d evolve and not have race as such a huge issue, but people teach hate—hate is a taught action, like love is a taught action,” says Barnes, shaking his head. “It’s 2024, and it’s wild, there’s still not enough teaching of love right now.”
Raising his children in an environment very different from the one he grew up in, Barnes is exceedingly careful to instil in them good values. Since becoming a father, Barnes has carefully thought out his game plan for raising children with a moral compass. While his fame from the All the Smoke podcast and his television commentary adds to his bottom line, he keeps an even keel and reminds his kids where he comes from. His family has more than most. But also have grown up appreciating that every day.
“I came from drug abuse, food stamps, family living with me—the typical struggle—we never went without, but my kids were born into private schools, gated communities and shoe options,” says Barnes. “Early on, what my family always did was give back—shoes, toys. We always talk about how everyone doesn’t have our opportunities and I went overboard making sure our family is humble. We’re not the richest people in the world, but I want to make sure gratitude is something none of us ever forget.”
Barnes was perhaps misunderstood as a player. He fought hard for everything he accomplished and made choices that didn’t always benefit a longterm peaceful path. But as he came to the defence of his sister, he always lived and played by a moral code—consequences come what may. That’s part of what’s made him so successful as a media personality. Barnes gives it to you straight. He was an innovator in straight-talk, cannabis-infused media
LOOKS THAT THRILL: Barnes, far left, with his All Star media teammates, Rachel Nichols, Demarcus “Boogie” Cousins and Stephen Jackson, his All the Smoke co-host who played 14 seasons in the NBA.
Love is a taught action. There’s not enough teaching of love right now.” “
commentary. From Black Lives Matters to Russell Westbrook’s fits, Barnes speaks to his audience as if they were his friends. And his message—on race, Trump, policing and, yes, weed—is one that everyone should hear. This is our Health & Wellness issue, and Barnes says cannabis was a soothe for escaping a difficult life.
“I had a troubled upbringing, violence in my life and household, and cannabis took me away from it, it made me sleep at night. I wouldn’t hear the arguing and it calmed me, so I committed to the plant at 15,” he says. “All through high school, all through UCLA, all through my career, I was risking my job with cannabis, but there wasn’t another answer.”
Never a big drinker, Barnes says vicodin hurt his stomach so he learned to self-medicate during his playing days with weed. Upon retirement, he was involved with the NBA negotiations about removing cannabis from the league’s list of banned substances. Now, with the NFL and NHL following the NBA’s approach, just as he’s changed the role of athletes in media, Matt Barnes has also changed, in part, the conversation around cannabis in sports. Smoking a joint and appearing on the cover of KIND before his film is released wide, Barnes, with a baby on the way, is smiling, feeling good about life.
“Four years ago, clinical research began on the positive aspects of the plant and soon, science will back what I’ve always known has worked for me,” Barnes says. “The first woman Black president will be crowned in November and it’s a huge sign—things can change.”
For more information on Black Mark, All the Smoke, including their new coffee table book from Simon & Schuster, follow Matt Barnes on Instagram, @matt_barnes9
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WHAT MINOR CANNABINOIDS COULD MEAN FOR YOUR HEALTH
Tabitha Rudkin is an innovation specialist and pharmaceutical chemist investigating formulations with minor cannabinoids as well as sensory sciences at Rubicon Organics (Rubicon Brands include: 1964, Simply Bare, Wildflower, and Homestead). At Wildflower, a wellness brand trying to bring more awareness to benefits of minor cannabinoids, Rudkin is doing truly innovative, important work. The future of cannabis, she believes, is healthful and elevated.
Tabitha Rudkin has pink hair, a cheerful smile, and a keen eye on analytical chemistry and method development. Her interests, personally and professionally, lie in researching clinical trials of minor cannabinoids, the science of cannabinoid receptors, and how our favourite plant can help current health issue trends. Frankly, she’s what our industry needs. After assessing several of the most recent clinical studies, Rudkin spoke to Kind editor Ben Kaplan on what the intersection looks like between plant health and us.
Ben Kaplan: I know you’re excited about the new CBG study that just came out. Why don’t we start with what CBG is and what we’re hoping it will make us feel?
Tabitha Rudkin: This is a great study because it’s one of the first to be done on human beings (also called In Vivo), and it was a double-blind study comparing CBG with a placebo and the resulting mood effects.
BK: So a placebo would be like a sugar pill with no actual cannabis, and the other pill would have CBG, the cannabis molecule refuted to help with focus and relieve stress?
TR: That’s right, and this study was great because it provides real data, and researchers found the CBG capsule was reported to do both things better than the placebo, alleviate stress and improve mental focus, and the CBG capsules also tested out to decrease the amount of perceived pain.
BK: That’s interesting. So CBG can’t actually eliminate pain, but this particular study showed that it reframed our conception about it?
TR: Respondents said in their self-reporting that the perceived amount of pain decreased, and that’s really fascinating because how we perceive things, that’s our experience in life.
BK: I appreciate that you’re speaking with us not just as a Rubicon executive but as someone invested in the space. What sort of products do you make with CBG?
TR: We have a CBG/THC gummy under the 1964 brand, and it’s meant to be an afternoon lift. It has 10mg of CBG and 10mg
of THC. We also have a THC free product under the Wildflower brand; the lemon ginger Daily Bliss gummy—a CBD/CBG mix and a really nice gummy if you want a CBG boost without THC. More products are in the works, but I can’t speak to those just yet.
BK: This will be subjective so speak of your own experiences personally, but what do you mean by “afternoon lift”?
TR: I find CBG immensely helpful. Some people like a coffee in the early afternoon to wake them up but with my ADHD neurochemistry if I have an afternoon coffee and it calms me down, makes me want to relax or even nap. CBG, on the other hand, re-energises me. It’s better for me than an energy drink, and a lot of people are finding CBG effective for stress relief and for focusing, but all cannabinoids will affect people differently.
BK: Can you explain CBD?
TR: A lot of people don’t notice immediate effects from CBD and they shouldn’t—it has no psychoactive effects. However, over time, research shows it reduces inflamma-
tion in the body. I am currently researching if CBD/CBDA is consumed orally does it reduce gastric issues stemming from gastric inflammation?
BK: And CBD does not get you high?
TR: It doesn’t cause a brain effect. It’s a nonintoxicating cannabinoid.
BK: And what does the research show this stuff makes you feel?
TR: Common effects people express include more focus, relaxation, less stress, and less anxiety.
BK: And how does the ‘entourage effect’ work?
TR: The Entourage effect is a synergetic feeling that terpenes together with cannabinoids can produce a feeling that is more than the sum of their individual properties. There have been great studies about how terpenes coupled with cannabinoids treat mood and anxiety disorders and I have hope that future and studies currently underway will have additional positive
correlation between cannabinoids, terpenes, and benefits to consumers.
BK: Incredible. I really do sincerely appreciate the work you and your team are doing.
TR: I wish 100% of my time could be devoted to this. I truly believe cannabis companies have to do the work, research and product development, assess products through clinical trials and further the understanding and education of the capabilities of this plant.
BK: What’s your big dream for our industry?
TR: I’m interested in furthering the knowledge of major and minor cannabinoids, how they work in our body, and what products consumers can incorporate into their daily routine. At Rubicon we are focused on growing the best cannabis on earth, for the earth. That means organic growing in living soil with real sunlight in the lower mainland of BC. We don’t want to just help the Canadian cannabis industry: the end goal is to help people around the world.
WILDE THING
On Vices, JJ Wilde is changing the face of Canadian rock ‘n’ roll
BY BEN KAPLAN
Mercy was a number one hit for JJ Wilde in 2021 and the leather-clad Canadian rocker is back with Vices, a huge banger of an album designed to rock stadiums, not only clubs. “Fuck a backup plan, I’m all in,” declares Wilde, the Juno award nominee who’s shared stages with everyone from Kiss to Pearl Jam to Mötley Crüe. Wilde, who’s been performing since 16, gradually turning her folk tunes into heavier jams, more Zeppelin than Paul Simon, says her success has married her turning up the volume of her look and her sound.
endgame for financial reasons, but that’s not who I am. I’m in music because I literally can not fucking do anything else.”
Doing nothing but rocking, however, has come with a price for the 32-year-old Kitchener guitarist. She calls her new record Vices and says learning moderation on the road to rock stardom hasn’t always been second nature. It’s a delicate balance she still needs to wade through every night. “There’s so much temptation for all kinds of shit on the road, partying every night in different cities, someone always wants to buy you a drink and I fully embraced that lifestyle,” says Wilde coyly, mentioning many a morning across the country watching the sun coming up with a show to play that evening. “The whole façade around being a rockstar, a lot of that’s true, but staying up to watch the sun rise, doing who knows what, and giving into those vices is not sustainable. You can’t let it overcome that you’re there to do a job: focus on an audience and connect with people.”
“I remember when I was figuring out what I wanted my sound to be, the songs that were heaviest and I was able to thrash around onstage were my favourite songs to perform,” Wilde tells kind, her raspy voice and easy smile immediately recognizable from her videos and live show experiences, often as not featuring her smoking weed. “I’ve been working on this record for two years and for some people music is an
Connecting with people at an increasingly rapid rate, Wilde tours Canada this fall as a headliner, hitting cities like Victoria, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Halifax, Fredericton, Montreal and Toronto on her way to introducing fans new and old to her vibe. The singer says she’s mentally in a good
place to deliver scorching new tunes that let listeners into a different side of the artist. She’s always been fun and edgy. But Vices sees her playing with her softer side, too. “For a long time, relationships felt like a preconceived notion that if I was happy, my music would suffer,” she says. “There was a correlation that, when I was happy, I wasn’t writing as much, but when I was in my dark places, I found my true artistic self, but that’s fucked up! It’s not sustainable, but thinking about it gave me good material for my record.”
Vices, anything from social media to sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll, play a role in all of our lifestyles. Finding that balance while remaining true to yourself is ultimately the journey that JJ Wilde is on. She says it’s the ride of her life. “I’m physically good, resting, rehearsing, saving my voice. I stopped drinking and I’ve been getting into going-on-the-road headspace,” she says, again with her customary laugh. “The worst thing is to be in a shitshow and get out on the road. I’ve lived it and the shitstorm turns into a tornado. It’s OK to stay out until five in the morning, just not all the time. You have to be smart, but you also have to keep things interesting.”
The record, called Vices, is out now. For a complete list of Canadian headlining tour dates, see JJWilde.com.
Resplendent in her cowboy hat and denim, 32-year-old Lainey Wilson from Baskin, Louisiana, population 250, is reckoning with success. After snagging last year’s country Grammy and picking up six Academy of Country Music awards, Wilson has every right to be concerned about following up her breakout year. Instead, the Yellowstone star insists she’s never been happier. “I can see how the job can sweep you off your feet and you can start living in a reality that’s not real, but that’s why I keep my people close and focus on being Lainey the sister, and friend, and dog momma,” she says, with her distinctive Southern drawl, pronounced as a slug of moonshine. “I’ve learned that just being 190% myself works a lot better than trying to be anything that I’m not and people know when you’re not real so you might as well enjoy it, live life and tell people how you really feel.”
In Toronto recently at a record release for Whirlwind—which plays with the typical country formula of acoustic guitar, harmonica, fiddle and Dobro and slices in funk, punk and even hip hop—Wilson was laidback, approachable, tapping her feet and seemingly enjoying her ride. The crooner enjoying the Taylor Swift effect on the pop charts, says even though her country bonafides are wedded deep to her soul, she has no problem with dilettante country artists like Beyoncé, Diplo and Post Malone experimenting with her genre.
“It don’t ruffle my feathers at all,” she says, with a laugh. “I can honestly say that they’re introducing new people—probably some people who even grew up saying, ‘I hate country music!’ to our style of music.” For Wilson, music is a great unifier and she believes that all artists should feel free to pursue what moves them—even if they’re bringing banjos to raves. “I just love it, and these artists could be introducing country to their audience, then, on a playlist that maybe I’m on, or Luke Combs is on, they’re like, ‘Oh shoot, maybe there’s something about the storytelling I do like,’” she says, in her typically upbeat, casual way. “It’s like inviting more people to the family reunion.”
LAINEY WILSON’S
Country Grammy award winner drops Whirlwind, espousing on keeping it real, Western culture and how country music became cool again
It’s this refreshing attitude and humility that has helped turn Wilson into a bankable star. She recently opened a three-storey pub in Nashville and her performance with Jelly Roll scored her the Musical Event of the Year at the 2023 Country Music Awards. In conversation, she says her unfussy manner and genuine approach is a product of her down-home environment. An environment, she adds, an increasing number of people clamoured for after COVID.
“When I’m talking about the Western way of life, horses, Wrangler jeans and cowboy hats, these are things I grew up with, that make me feel at home, and I want everyone to feel at home when they listen to my music,” says the artist, who released her first record in 2006 and made her way across Mississippi and Arkansas with a Hannah Montana show. “Nowadays, people coming to country, I’m like, ‘Where have you been?’ This lifestyle is cool and I’m glad you’re finally catching on. I think the pandemic probably cut out a lot of the BS and people realised what was important to them—faith, family and friends.”
Spending time with the singer, it’s not hard to see why the sky’s the limit for the artist who was recently trending on Tiktok, a video of her in leopard-skin pants accentuating her rear end went viral. Wilson told one YouTuber, in response to the video, “I get the width from my momma and the depth from my daddy,” and, taking it all in stride, added: “Whatever gets them to listen to the music.”
In Toronto, Wilson said she loved Canada and Canadians and that performing in Alberta and Northern Ontario, the singer feels grateful for her genuine ability to connect. “Country music was more than a genre to me, I felt like I knew the people on the radio and it made me feel welcome, comfortable and warm,” she says. “I love storytelling and I love to sing and I’ll tell you another thing, travelling the world and playing this music all over? We’re a lot more alike than you think.”
Lainey Wilson’s Whirlwind is out now. She plays London, Ontario on October 24 and Oshawa on October 25. For complete tour dates, see LaineyWilson.com.
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“You can’t come to Canada and not smoke a joint with Ben Kaplan, editor of KIND,”
—Matt Barnes, 2017 NBA Champion, founder and host, All the Smoke, cover of your issue of KIND
From dope dealers to cowboy business deals, this is the tell-all insider’s story of the winners and losers of cannabis legalization in Canada — and the billions lost. #CatchAFire
Available January 2025. Pre-order now.
dundurn.com @dundurnpress
BY BEN KRIZ
Imposter Syndrome and Mental Health in Cannabis
Jane West was a corporate event planner, rising through the ranks of corporate America while balancing family life. Then, in 2013, she had an idea: combine her love of cannabis with her professional experience to host sophisticated cannabis parties in Denver. While the vision was thrilling, the realities of venturing into an uncharted industry triggered overwhelming self-doubt. She didn’t know anyone in the cannabis space, and her experience suddenly felt irrelevant. Jane was facing what many professionals encounter when stepping outside their comfort zone: imposter syndrome. Fast-forward to today and she is the CEO of her own cannabis brand, Jane West, one of the most recognizable names in the market.
Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling of self-doubt and inadequacy despite evident success, leading individuals to fear being exposed as a “fraud.” It affects people across industries, from corporate executives to entrepreneurs and studies reveal that up to 70% of professionals experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, especially in fast-growing and evolving fields like cannabis. Even two-time Academy Award-winning actor Tom Hanks has spoken about selfdoubt, describing it as a “highwire act” where one constantly wonders, “When are they going to discover that I am, in fact, a fraud and take everything away from me?”
For West, it was a matter of forming new habits and shifting her mindset. She began to turn her big ideas into actions, trusted her intuition, and integrated cannabis into her wellness routine. Embracing her true self, she found that failure was less intimidating as her ventures began to thrive. Even today, it can be challenging as the cannabis sector doesnt’ have a long history of leaders and entrepreneurs to look to for inspiration. “In other industries, you can look at someone and say, “I want to be like that person,” West says.
“But in cannabis, there are so few women or even people in general in positions of power who control what happens with their company. There’s nobody there to say, “Hey, this is normal,” or guide you through it.”
In an emerging industry like cannabis, where regulations are still forming and perceptions continue to shift, professionals face a unique blend of challenges that impact mental health. While imposter syndrome is one common phenomenon, the overall mental toll can manifest in different ways. For West, it’s difficult to identify with founders in other sectors as they don’t face the same challenges. “They don’t have six banks shutting them down. They don’t have Instagram posts taken down due to regulations. They don’t have the regulatory restrictions we do—like I can’t make the product I want, I can’t sell online in the same way, I can’t say certain words, or call products by certain names. For all these reasons, it’s easy to feel lost and not have someone to look up to or emulate.”
Professionals often feel the pressure to constantly innovate, adapt to regulatory changes, and navigate the stigma still associated with cannabis. Although some may not describe specific instances of imposter syndrome, many face emotional and psychological strain from the uncertainty and high expectations of their roles.
Dr. Sandi Mann, a Chartered Psychologist and Senior Psychology Lecturer at the University of Central Lancashire, explains in her book Why Do I Feel Like an Imposter? that certain triggers may make susceptible people more likely to feel like imposters and they occur at times of transition. “In professional settings, it can be triggered by external factors such as entering a new role, receiving recognition, or working in an environment where there’s pressure to excel,” Dr. Mann says.
HIGH HIGH PRESSURE PRESSURE
PRESSURE PRESSURE HIGH HIGH
In the workplace, it manifests in behaviours like overworking, perfectionism, avoiding feedback, hesitating to voice ideas in meetings, undermining one’s achievements, and discounting praise. Individuals often attribute their successes to luck rather than skill, living in constant fear of being exposed.
West suggests a silver lining to imposter syndrome: while it makes you feel like a fraud who doesn’t know what you’re doing, “nobody in this industry truly knows.”
Cannabis professionals face unique challenges: navigating regulatory uncertainty, working under public scrutiny, and often having to prove the credibility of their work and the industry at large. These pressures can contribute to heightened feelings of insecurity and the internalized belief that they are not truly succeeding, despite evidence to the contrary.
PERSONAL CHALLENGES
The cannabis industry is rarely easy, even for experienced executives like Bubba Nicholson, former VP of Brand at Aurora Cannabis. Bubba’s journey illustrates the emotional toll that professionals face in this rapidly evolving space. He spent four years on the road in building a company—often 310 nights a year in hotels visiting potential clients—battling loneliness and alcohol addiction. “I had to come to the realization that we had families to feed back at the farm,” he said. For Bubba, giving up alcohol was a turning point. Replacing it with healthier habits like walking, he lost over 100 pounds and developed a stronger mental outlook. His story highlights the sometimes-overlooked emotional toll of navigating high-stress environments, particularly in an industry that can lean toward a male-dominated, macho culture. In such spaces, there’s often a pressure to maintain a facade of toughness, which can make acknowledging mental health struggles even more difficult.
While imposter syndrome wasn’t part of his personal experience, Bubba faced other mental health challenges that many in the cannabis industry can relate to. He learned to cope by developing daily practices of gratitude and focusing on positive routines, such as walking through unfamiliar towns to connect with locals. “When things got hard, I developed daily practices. I’d wake up and count my blessings. By the time I left the hotel, I’d be 50 blessings in. At that point, nothing could touch me, and it motivated me to keep going.”
For professionals like Niko Sosiak, CFO at Cannara Biotech and brand creator (@nikodank), mental health in the cannabis industry is shaped by the relentless pace and uncertainty of the field. “It’s not necessarily imposter syndrome, but more about questioning the amount of work and effort you put in for the reward. You know how it’s going to pay off eventually, but you don’t know when or if,” Niko shared. In such a fast-moving space, mental strain comes not just from the volume of work
but from the constant pressure to maintain confidence, especially in a sector where success is still undefined.
Niko attributes his mental resilience to the structure and routines he has built. He relies on a combination of long-term planning and daily reassessments to manage the inevitable stress that comes with his role. “I take it day by day... “It’s important to stay connected not only to your team, but with yourself, and course-correct as needed,” he explained. In addition to these professional practices, he credits hash with helping him manage stress, particularly during long work nights.
MAINTAINING BALANCE
In any industry, but particularly cannabis, managing stress and maintaining mental well-being requires deliberate effort. For Bubba Nicholson, building resilience meant focusing on the well-being of his team and prioritizing kindness. “A lot of people are in survival mode right now,” Bubba noted, emphasizing that in such conditions, leading with empathy is crucial. “There are many ways to make a point, and you can do it curtly or kindly,” he explained, stressing that even in tough times, treating people with respect can foster trust and loyalty.
Similarly, Niko Sosiak relies on a day-by-day approach to manage overwhelming feelings. “I assess what happened today, what happened yesterday, and what’s ahead for tomorrow,” he explained. Niko’s focus on maintaining balance extends to his leadership style, where he prioritizes flexibility and encourages his team to take time off when needed. “Maintaining a positive culture is key,” he emphasized, believing that problems should be met with understanding and solutions.
Both leaders recognize the broader challenges in the cannabis industry, where mental health support often takes a backseat to survival. Investing in employees and fostering an empathetic, supportive environment have been essential strategies for both Bubba and Niko, helping them navigate the pressures of an industry still finding its footing.
As the cannabis industry matures, the mental health of its leaders and employees becomes increasingly critical. From battling burnout to balancing personal well-being with professional demands, leaders like Nicholson, West and Sosiak have found their own strategies to maintain mental resilience. As more attention turns to the human side of the cannabis industry, these approaches offer a blueprint for building a sustainable, healthy future.
In the end, tackling mental health isn’t just about surviving the industry’s ups and downs—it’s about thriving despite them. By weaving empathy, strategic self-care, and supportive leadership into their daily routines, cannabis professionals can turn mental health from an afterthought into a cornerstone of their success.
Cannabis professionals face unique challenges: navigating regulatory uncertainty, working under public scrutiny, and often having to prove the credibility of their work and the industry at large.
PRESSURE PRESSURE
DAB HIM UP:
The face of cannabis, Nicholas Sosiak, deals with pressure head on.
SHE’S GOTTA HAVE IT: Jane West, revolutionary cannabis entrepreneur.
COMING UP PORTUGAL
Nicole Wolff ascends the clouds, visits Portuguese Jesus and finds her own little slice of paradise on tour with photographer Justin Vanslingerland, her fiancé—and partner in eating, drinking and exploring the world.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN VANSLINGERLAND
After a couple of years of pandemic hell, European summers are back. Seems since, every year Instagram blesses us with a new hotspot. In 2022, Greece was the “It girl.” 2023 saw everyone flocking to the South of France—this year, Portugal is having its moment.
Named one of the top travel destinations at the “World Travel Awards 2024” in Berlin, I had to experience it myself. Spoiler alert: Portugal deserves the hype.
Portugal’s one of the oldest countries in Europe (I think it is actually the oldest, but don’t quote me on that—I’m still recovering from all that great Portuguese wine). Either way, Portugal’s charm definitely shines through. Rich with history and full of adventure, it offers a little something for everyone. Let’s go for a stroll.
Travel & Adventure: From Madeira’s Mountains to the Azore’s Thrills
For the adventurers, the Azores are your playground, earning the title of “Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination.” As you may recall, my fiancé (!!!!) Justin and I tend to enjoy balanced trips, while travelling fast—mixing indulgence with adrenaline. His top pick for Portugal? Canyoning in Sao Miguel, which is legendary, risky and insane. I was too busy with Kind Summer Fair to look into it before we got there, so I was rather surprised to find myself rapelling down 60-foot waterfalls, jumping off cliffs and ziplining through lush landscapes—all with a line that came out of our guide’s backpack.
Not for the faint-hearted, definitely unforgettable and would absolutely do it again.
If you hop over to another Portuguese island—often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe —you’ll find yourself in Madeira, birthplace and home of Portuguese Jesus, Cristiano Ronaldo, and winner of “Europe’s Leading Island Destination.” Something else you’ll find in Madeira, the famous Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike, dubbed the “Stairway to Heaven” (or hell, depending on your viewpoint). This was, quite literally, the peak of our trip. Eleven kilometres, offering stunning views of Madeira’s rugged terrain including 360 degree views of the island, all while your head is quite literally above the clouds. Head there at sunrise—trust me, it’s a sight you won’t soon forget.
The number one winedrinking country per capita!” “
Art & Culture: Where Old Meets Bold
Porto has my whole heart. This city, with its old-world charm and bold culture, is the perfect blend of history and modern flair. From the intricate azulejos that adorn the buildings to its vibrant art scene, there’s something magical about wandering the streets. It’s like stepping into the past without missing a beat of the present.
For every thrill seeking adventure I go on with Justin, he agrees to visit a wine town with me. Little did I know, Portugal is the number one wine-drinking country per capita! While it may be a lesser known wine region, 14 of the 18 regions within Portugal produce wine. My fave? Douro Valley, a UNESCO heritage site and the birthplace of port wine.
Food & Drink: The Way to the Heart is Through a Pasteis de Nata
Speaking of wine, my favourite way to experience any country is by eating and drinking my way through it—and Portugal did not disappoint. From the Douro Valley wine region to some of the coolest cocktail bars, each bite and sip kept raising the bar.
While Portugal’s having its moment, the country’s cocktail scene is also on the rise. Complex flavours, unique ingredients and Portugal’s cocktail bars are on the forefront of trends. Justin and I love stumbling into and supporting local small businesses, so I would
be remiss to not shout out two of our favourites. If you find yourself in Lagos, visit Welder at the Forbidden Door (@forbiddendoorlagos) to try the Cotton Pepper, complete with cotton candy—and yes, it’s as whimsical as it sounds. In Lisbon, The Monarch (@themonarchlisbon) is a must; don’t let the name and fancy decor fool you—these expertly crafted cocktails blend beach vibes with your favourite classics.
And the food! Our diet consisted of garlic shrimp and Iberian black pork, chased with the Pasteis de Nata, a traditional Portuguese custard, and every one was better than the last.
Health & Wellness: A Coastal Reset
Our diet consisted of garlic shrimp and Iberian black pork, chased with the Pasteis de Nata, traditional Portuguese custard—each one better than the last.”
After indulging, we needed a little wellness to balance it out. Portugal’s beaches are the perfect place to reset. With its endless coastline, you’re likely to stumble on secluded spots that feel like your own private slice of paradise. The Algarve is known for its secluded beaches that feel private despite being public—the ideal spot for anyone looking to zen out after a busy summer.
Meanwhile, if you find your way back to Sao Miguel, stay in Furnas for a few days, an area known for its natural thermal springs. We went, and every day felt like a spa day.
Sure, Portugal is having its moment on Instagram, but it’s more than just a pretty backdrop. Whether you’re canyoning in the Azores, enjoying a cocktail in Lisbon, or hiking above the clouds in Madeira, it’s a place where memories are made (and I’m not just saying that because it’s where we got engaged!). It has a little bit of magic for whatever kind of traveller you are—foodies, adventurers, lovers, and culture seekers alike.
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When we bring the party minus hangxiety... ...that’s sweet justice!
BEST PRODUCT GUIDE
An exclusive preview of the freshest new products in legal weed
MEDIPHARM LABS
MediPharm Labs
CBD All-in-One Vape
CBD 62-68% | THC 1-6% | SIZE 1g High-CBD Hybrid Sativa Dominant
Our award-winning CBD oil is now available in our NEW All-In-One Vape—experience premium hardware and pharmaceutical-grade CBD, produced with precision to elevate your wellness. Use our vape for fast onset and our oils when seeking longer lasting, made with no artificial flavours, fillers, or synthetics.
• Pharma-Grade Quality: Our fast-acting vape uses premium singlestrain full spectrum extract and delivers a smooth inhale. No synthetics, fillers, or artificial flavours.
• Eco-Conscious: Designed with hemp-plastic that decomposes 3x faster than traditional plastic disposables.
• Portable and Convenient: Simply pre-heat by blowing in the base, and recharge easily with the included cable.
MediPharm Labs CBN 1:2 Nighttime Formula 10mg/mL CBN | 20mg/mL THC | 300mg Total CBN | 600mg Total THC
Experience restful nights with MediPharm Labs’ CBN 1:2, a highquality Nighttime Formula containing 10mg/mL of CBN and 20mg/mL of THC made using refined CBN material. Produced at MediPharm Labs using strict manufacturing standards to bring you the highest quality and purity.
• 300mg CBN & 600mg THC per 30mL bottle
• 3mg CBN & 6mg THC per 0.3mL dose.
• Sustainably sourced MCT oil as a carrier.
• Formulated with non-GMO carrier oils and extracts, free from synthetics, ensuring the highest quality.
• Packaged in a pharmaceutical-grade amber glass bottle to ensure optimal protection and preservation. Each bottle includes a 0.3mL syringe for precise, consistent dosing.
Coconut & Vanilla CBG Fruit Bite
Start your day with a burst of wellness! Jublee’s Coconut & Vanilla CBG
Fruit Bites are your new go-to for a bright, balanced morning. Infused with a feel-good trio of THC, CBD, and CBG, these naturally sweet treats are crafted from dried fruit and our in-house full-spectrum extract, giving you a clean and wholesome start. The sativa-like CBG may help boost mental clarity, making these fruit bites a perfect partner for your morning tea or coffee ritual. Every bite is made with love, using locally sourced ingredients from farmers in Quebec and Ontario, while our tropical fruits are carefully selected to meet our high standards. We track every step from farm to finished product, ensuring your wellness journey aligns with our commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability.
PROOFLY
Nightly Chamomile Softgels - CBN:CBD:THC:CBG + Terpenes
600 mg CBD | 150 mg CBN | 150 mg CBG | 75 mg THC [30 caps]
Waking up refreshed has never felt better. Experience the ultimate upgrade to your wellness and sleep routine with our Nightly Chamomile Softgels! Each softgel packs a potent punch of 20mg of CBD, 5mg of CBG, 5mg of CBN, and 2.5mg of THC, all derived from premium quality cannabis extracts. But that’s not all—we’ve enriched these softgels with calming Chamomile + our unique blend of nighttime terpenes. Get ready to embrace and elevate your nighttime routine like never before.
Flowers & Fir CBD Bath Salts
Transform bath time into a soothing retreat! Jublee’s Flower & Fir
Bath Salts are a luxurious blend of Himalayan pink salt and 400mg of CBD, designed to melt away tension and leave you feeling restored. Infused with essential oils of Balsam Fir, Bergamot, and Lavender, this aromatic combo detoxifies, nurtures your skin, and even opens up your airways for an immersive spa-like experience at home. Free from preservatives and perfumes, these salts are all about natural care. With a touch of coconut oil to enhance absorption, the CBD works its magic on your skin, helping you unwind and let your worries float away.
Mega CBG:CBD:THC Arnica Relief Cream 5500
2500mg CBG | 2500 mg CBD | 500 mg THC [250 g]
Introducing the first and only mega-sized topical on the market. Experience the ultimate in relief with our Mega Size 5500 Arnica Relief Cream! Unleash the power of 2500mg of CBG, 2500mg of CBD, and 500mg of THC, all combined with potent pain-relieving ingredients including Arnica, Menthol, and Peppermint. It’s also packed with natural plant extracts like Jojoba oil, Babassu oil, and Cocoa butter to hydrate and replenish your skin. It’s the go-to choice for those seeking both fast-acting and long-lasting relief and hydration in a mega size.
Citrus Tsunami 3.5g
Citrus Tsunami is a sativa-dominant strain, bred by crossing Tropicanna Cookies x Orange Zkittlez. This unique cultivar offers sweet and tart flavour notes with hints of citrus and earth, with an uplifting experience that is perfect for any time smoke. The flower is packaged in a 3.5g nitropack to preserve terps, flavour and quality.
Lychee Lime 1x1g
Lychee Lime is a 1g sativa 510 Thread Standard Vape Cartridge, featuring high potency distillate and sweet flavour notes reminiscent to Lychee Fruit with citrusy lime undertones.
Indica prerolls 4x0.5g
Indica by Thumbs Up is a strain specific 4x0.5g pre-roll pack featuring ever-changing strains. With the best weed and expert rolling, the multi-pack provides a series of great, and diverse, hits.
IN-fused Orange Berry 2x0.5g
INtroducing IN-Fused Orange Berry! Featuring rotating sativa strains that are infused with distillate and a sweet, citrusy Orange Berry flavour and packed in a 2x0.5g tube... get IN-Fused with RIPPED!
WINK MAX THUMBS UP
RIPPED
CBD Lemon Black Tea
All of the chill, none of the buzz. TeaPot’s first hemp-derived iced tea contains 20mg of CBD and less than 0.5mg of THC.
The recipe is based on TeaPot’s award winning THC iced tea and contains 100 calories, naturally occurring caffeine, and no carbonation. TeaPot CBD Lemon Black iced tea is currently available in dispensaries across Ontario and Quebec with plans for further expansion.
Lemonade Iced Tea
TeaPot’s Lemonade Iced Tea is a classic half-and-half recipe, combining real black tea with lemonade, expertly infused with 5mg of THC. Each 355mL can of Lemonade Iced Tea contains 130 calories and is non-carbonated. Available in dispensaries across Ontario and Quebec with further expansion planned throughout the year.
SWEET JUSTICE
WTF is HOP WATER?
@drinksweetjustice meet WTF is hop water?
Hop Water is crafted by infusing aromatic hop resins, natural zesty fruit flavours, and sparkling water delivering layered tasting notes with a gentle hoppy finish.
BAR HOP by Sweet Justice has two new SKUs. OG Citrus Bar Hop and Strawberry Bar Hop
Zero sugar
Gluten free
Natural hop extracts & fruit flavours
4-5 calories per 355ml serving 10mg fast acting THC
Cheers to no hangxiety!
Stinky Pinky 7g
Meet Stinky Pinky—the newest, classic legacy cultivar from 1964. Our take on the legendary Pink Kush is coated in sugary trichomes and stinks of sweet, kushy gas that we can’t get enough of.
CBD Sports Stick
Our Wildflower Sports Stick has been formulated with 400mg of CBD. This concentration of CBD is blended with coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils. Camphor and Peppermint Oil are added to allow for a cold sensation followed by a warmth sensation from Chili Oil to support pain relief. The texture and stick applicator allow for easy and targeted application.
Organic Live Rosin Soft Gels
Get the full spectrum experience with our Live Rosin Capsules. These all organic 10mg Caps come in a pack of 30, and will contain input from one of our many organic certified cultivars. Each capsule starts with our flower, hand trimmed and grown in living soil, then expertly pressed into Live Rosin and packed into organic gel capsules.
Bangtail 10x0.5g Pre-Rolls
The people asked and we have delivered. Canada’s favourite value flower — now in a convenient on-the-go pre-roll format. High quality, living soil, hybrid-greenhouse flower at a reasonable price. What more could you ask for?
SIMPLY BARE HOMESTEAD
Trifecta
Experience Canada’s most premium infused pre-roll—the Tribal Trifecta. This triple-infused masterpiece combines strain-specific live resin, terp sauce, and a THC-A diamond coating for unmatched flavour and effect. Available in Cuban Linx and Gelato Mint strains, these 3 x 0.6g infused pre-rolls come in a sleek, reusable tin. The Trifecta also features a ceramic tip, ensuring a smooth, consistent draw from the first puff to the last. Elevate your smoking experience with the Tribal Trifecta—crafted for connoisseurs who demand the very best.
Bubble Up 3.5 Flower
Get ready to be up in the clouds with Bubble Up, the newest banger from Tribal. As you sit back and take a pull, the air will sparkle like a bubbly champagne, carrying hints of Irish spring soap, while you experience total relaxation. Bred by Exotic Genetix, Bubble Up is a cross of Zoap x Deluxe, an indica with sticky, terp-rich flowers that calm the mind and relax the body. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or finding your chill, Bubble Up has you covered.
Neon Sunshine 3.5g Flower
Meet Neon Sunshine, the newest addition to the Tribal Family. This strain is like a tropical escape, where the sunsets are neon, the beach is warm, and the weed tastes like a tropical margarita. Bred by the legendary Exotic Genetix, Neon Sunshine is a cross of Zktlz x Falcon 9, this hybrid blends sweet and salty citrus flavours with vibrant, frosty buds. It’s a true West Coast dream in every puff. Step into paradise with Neon Sunshine and let the good vibes roll.
Orchid CBD Rntz Live Resin Vape Canada #1 CBD Flower now available in Live Resin! Introducing Orchid CBD’s CBD Rntz Live Resin vape cart. With only one ingredient, our fresh frozen, in-house grown CBD Runtz flower, consumers can expect a true-to-flower flavour and experience.
TRIBAL
ORCHID
Venom OG Live Resin 510 Cart
You asked, and we delivered! Our infamous Venom OG you’ve all come to know and love is now available as a Live Resin 510 vape cart, bringing to life the full profile of this beloved strain. This high-potency and high-terpene extract is crafted from single-strain fresh-frozen flower that’s undergone an arctic extraction journey to lock in all the complex terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids. This cart boasts a burst of skunky spice, subtle peppery notes, with a hint of zesty lemon that’ll awaken your senses. Elevate your vaping experience with the full profile of Venom OG, all in one sleek 510 vape cart. Brought to you with love, from Scarborough.
Tropicana Cookies
Tropicana Cookies is the ultimate dank experience. This elite indicadominant hybrid is a blend of Girl Scout Cookies x Tangie 21. Expect a seriously satisfying sour citrus kick, followed by a subtly sweet, cookieflavoured exhale that’ll keep you coming back for more. When you break and light those buds, the aroma shifts from sweet earthy citrus to a smooth, tangy menthol essence. Tropicana Cookies undergoes a meticulous process — slow-cured, hang-dried, and hand-trimmed. Available in 14g and 28g formats, this beauty is delivered to you with love, from Scarborough.
With Love From Scarborough
Experience the love from Scarborough with the elite cross of Kush Mintz x Do-Si-Dos. Immerse yourself in its rich aroma—a subtle combination of gassy undertones, earthiness, and a hint of sweet mint chocolate. The buds? They’re a sight to behold—large, dense with a touch of foxtail structure, playing between shades of light and dark green, complemented by bright orange pistils, and finished with a trichome sparkle. Available in 7g and 28g formats, this toptier indica-dominant flower is hang-dried, slow-cured, and carefully hand-trimmed ensuring premium craftsmanship.
Exotic Gas Live Resin 510 Cart
Buckle up, we’re taking you on a legit ride with our Live Resin Vape Cart where every hit speaks truth to purity. Your unfiltered journey through audacious flavour and potency begins with this cart. Lovers of Exotic Gas, behold! Your favourite flower is now available in a live resin vape cart! Pink Cookies fresh-frozen flower undergoes an arctic extraction adventure, locking in those bold terpenes and fierce cannabinoids. It’s not just a vape; it’s a manifesto of pure potency & genuine vibes, with the love from our city, Scarborough, echoing in every pull.
THE LOUD PLUG
Glueberry Live Resin
Endgame’s Glueberry live resin, made from fresh-frozen, whole-plant inputs, reduced down to a golden slushy concentrate will have you relishing its delicious, unique, flavour notes which you won’t find in your average dab. A beautiful mix of fuel and fruit gives this live resin a balanced hybrid effect to get you right whatever the vibe is.
HARD HITTERS
Blueberry Octane Liquid Diamond Dispenser
Lit, this liquid diamond dispenser from Endgame is beloved. Liquid diamonds mixed with terp blends to deliver some of our hardesthitting carts to date. Blueberry Octane is a sweet fruity/berry, OGreminiscent 510 cart that packs a punch, but also goes down smooth. Perfect on the go with terrifically high THC percent.
HARD HITTERS
Blueberry Octane Liquid Diamond Cart
This liquid diamond 510 cart from Endgame is a game-changer. THC Diamonds mixed with tasty terp blends to deliver some of our hardest-hitting carts to date. Blueberry Octane is a sweet fruity/ berry, OG-reminiscent 510 cart that hits hard, but is easy on the draw. Perfect on the go with some of our highest THC% to date.
HARD HITTERS
Cloudberry Liquid Diamond Cart
You will love this Liquid Diamond 510 cart from Endgame. THC Diamonds mixed with tasty terp blends to deliver potent, unexpected, wonderful delight. Cloudberry is a tangy/berry blend of some of our favourite exotic terps—a guaranteed banger, flavour sensation with THC levels that no other company can compete with.
Apple Sour Squad Infused PALS
Pre-Rolls 5 x 0.5 g
Pucker up and go on a sensory trip with all-new Apple Sour Squad Infused PALS, where the high is as sweet as it is sour. Kick off your adventure with crisp, tart green apple before you soar into an entirely otherworldly sour experience. It’s a mouth-puckering explosion that will take you on an outta-this-world adventure.
Pink Burst & Melonberry Ice 3-in-1
Disposable Vape 1 g
Get ready for a choose-your-own flavour adventure with Palmetto’s Pink Burst & Melonberry Ice 3-in-1 Disposable Vape.
The Palmetto 3-in-1 Disposable Vape lets you effortlessly switch between flavours.
Unwrap a sweet strawberry-lemon flavour explosion with Pink Burst, or dive into the cool Melonberry Ice, a delightful mix of minty-melon and red berries. This cuttingedge 3-in-1 Disposable Vape includes two 0.5 g chambers filled with high potency ethanolextracted distillate oil blended with custom botanical terpene flavours. Stay Good To Go with advanced hardware features like a flavour selection toggle, preheat function, a vent tube-free design and rechargeable USB-C.
PALMETTO
BC Purple Kush Shatter Infused Pre-Rolls 3 x 0.5 g Double down on your favourite strain with Versus BC Purple Kush Shatter Infused PreRolls. Our best-selling BC Purple Kush flower is infused with BC Purple Kush strain-specific shatter, offering an amped-up experience of our signature strain. All-new Versus Shatter Infused Pre-Rolls deliver very high potency and promise a smooth, consistent burn—every time.
Purple Mendocino 7 g
Top Leaf’s Purple Mendocino is grown hydroponically, giving the flower a more robust flavour profile. Renowned for its distinctive purple morphology, it transcends botanical origins as an award-winning cultural icon. This indica’s captivating and sophisticated blend of rich caramel, coffee, and pine aromas solidifies its sought-out status among those appreciating subtle nuances.
TOP LEAF
FREE THEIR MINDS
THE CASE FOR CANNABIS BEHIND BARS
BY AKWASI OWUSU-BEMPAH, ILLUSTRATION BY YANA IRODENKO
While adult Canadians are now generally free to consume cannabis, the same cannot be said for people who are incarcerated in our federal correctional system.
Many would see this as sensible. As punishment for violating our criminal laws, people who are locked up are denied many liberties afforded to those on the outside. Aside from the obvious restrictions on freedom of movement, the consumption of alcohol is also prohibited (as is tobacco).
While I can understand not wanting prisoners, many of whom may have struggled with alcoholism and other
substance use disorders, to have access to alcohol, I see cannabis differently. Especially now that cannabis has been legalized for adult use in Canada.
While the link between alcohol and aggression is well established in popular culture and the association supported in science—the American Psychological Association proved this in a powerful, widely quoted 2009 study—the same is not true for cannabis.
Of course, there are possible drawbacks: introducing a commodity on a greater scale (cannabis is already present in our prisons)
that can fuel underground trades. And we need to think about this seriously. We don’t know what problems cannabis would create related to drug trade in prison, coercion of prisoners, and the violence that may stem from that. Cannabis is not harmless—it has a negative impact on health.
This might be a crazy idea, but it’s worth exploring.
Harry Ainslinger, the OG anti-cannabis crusader in America, characterized cannabis users as drug fueled maniacs, perhaps best captured in the cult classic Reefer Madness and popular culture often
80% OF PRISONERS AT A SWISS JAIL ARE ALREADY SMOKING WEED— AS ARE 50% OF THE GUARDS. READ THAT AGAIN.
psychosis. Could cannabis help alleviate that pain?
I think it could. And I also think there are important, potentially beneficial effects that cannabis could have on the levels of violence in Canadian prisons. Data show that assaults on inmates and prison staff are on the rise, and drastically so. There were more than 9,100 reported violent incidents in federal prisons in Canada over fiscal 2022 to 2023. That’s a 45% increase over the previous year. Assaults by prisoners on prison staff are up 189% since 2014 and inmate-on-inmate violence is up 132%.
Clearly what we’re doing isn’t working. And when you add in who’s most likely behind bars—Blacks are 9.3% of the prison population in Canada while only 2.9% of the Canadian population—things need to change. Now.
So why cannabis? Results from a Swiss study at a male prison provide some very interesting insights. Detainees estimated the current use of cannabis to be as high as 80%, and staff 50%.
Read that again: 80% of prisoners at a Swiss jail are already smoking weed—as are 50% of the guards. Are the numbers the same in Canada? We have no idea. The issue hasn’t been studied.
Participants in the Swiss study showed similar opinions on effects of cannabis use that were described both at individual and institutional levels: analgesic, calming, self-help to go through the prison experience, relieve stress, facilitate sleep, prevent violence, and social pacifier. Hard to argue that these feelings don’t add to the common good.
They also mentioned negative consequences
of cannabis use (sleepiness, decreased perception of danger and social isolation), and dissatisfaction regarding the ongoing ambiguous situation where cannabis is forbidden, even though detection in the urine was not sanctioned. It was also noted that the introduction of a more restrictive regulation of cannabis induced fear of violence, increased trafficking and prompted a shift to other drug use.
Although illegal, cannabis use is clearly involved in daily life in prison. This is true in Canada, as it is in many places all over the world. A clearer and comprehensive policy addressing cannabis is needed, including appropriate measures tailored to individual users. To sustain a calm and safe environment in prison, means other than substance or medication use are required.
Akwasi Owusu-Bempah is an associate professor in the Department of Sociology at the University of Toronto and a Senior Fellow at Massey College. He holds Affiliate Scientist status at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and serves as Director of Research for the Campaign for Cannabis Amnesty.
AHEAD OF THE RELEASE OF SOUPS, SALAD, SANDWICHES: A COOKBOOK, THE SUPERSTAR CHEF SHARES HIS RECIPES AND SOUL
MATTY MATHESON’S FEELING NO PAIN
When we visited Matheson at his office for our cover, Christmas, 2020, people were hurting. Restaurants were closing, people in his industry were out of work and we were all suffering at home during the pandemic. Mattheson hadn’t yet made The Bear and Canadian food banks were seeing a 200% increase while a million jobs disappeared. Even though all of his appearances had been wiped away, Matty said, “I’m not willing to roll over people to get what I want. I’d rather hold hands with the people around me and find success together.”
Since then, Matheson’s only seen his star rise and his new cookbook, equal parts goofy, brilliant, delicious and insane, irresistible like the man, dropped this month. “If you take one ladle, leave two,” Matheson told us. That approach has given Canada’s favourite chef a life in and out of the kitchen. He shares with us threew recipes from his new book.
THC: 29-34%
Lineage GSC X DURBAN POISON X OG KUSH
Aroma & Flavour LEMON, DIESEL, SKUNK
Farm Type MICRO CULTIVATION
Method ROCKWOOL
Flower Time 10 WEEKS
Cure 21 TO 35 DAYS
Extremely loud plant to grow both in terms of structure and smell.
Easily overpowers everything in the same room with a strong skunky gassy smell.
One of the highest testing sativas grown to date.
Prone to foxtails and can turn purple towards the end of flower.
TERPENES: 2.5-5%
CARYOPHYNELLE / LIMONENE
SELINADIENE / HUMULENE / LINALOOL
THC: 25-31%
Lineage DOUBLE DUTCH X OLD TIME MOONSHINE
Aroma & Flavour DRIED FRUIT, SPICE, MUSK
Farm Type MICRO CULTIVATION, HYBRID REENHOUSE
Method ROCKWOOL, SOIL
Flower Time 8 WEEKS
Cure 14 TO 21 DAYS
Genetic was dialed in at Weed Me grow rooms, a very finicky plant to grow.
Was producing low yields and THC at first but the growers experimented with different feeding methods to increase yields and THC upto 31%
TERPENES: 2.5-5%
LIMONENE / CARYOPHYLLENE / PINENE / HUMULENE / LINALOOL
THC: 28-34%
Lineage BOSTON CREAM PIE X RUNTZ
Aroma & Flavour SWEET, EARTHY, SKUNK
Farm Type MICRO CULTIVATION
Method ROCKWOOL
Flower Time 9 WEEKS
Cure 21 TO 35 DAYS
Over 50 seeds were popped at Hortimed Inc in Quebec to hunt for a keeper cultivar.
Three visibly different phenotypes were discovered. All 3 phenos had foxtail heavy buds and skunky, earthy smell. In the end the medium height phenotype was selected for commercial production due to its consistency in producing a monster >30% THC everytime.
Usually puts out extremely resinous conservative sized buds.
TERPENES: 2-4%
LIMONENE / CARYOPHYNELLE
LINALOOL / FARNESENE / GUAIOL
SOUP WITH GRILLED CHEESE CROSTINI THING
INGREDIENTS
SOUP
12 hothouse tomatoes, halved 1 red onion, roughly chopped
3 jalapeños, halved and seeded
4 garlic cloves, smashed
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
2 cups tomato puree
6 cups vegetable stock, chicken stock, or water
CROSTINI
1 baguette, cut into ¼-inch slices 1 garlic clove, peeled
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
SERVES 6
Preheat your oven to broil on low. On a baking sheet, toss together the tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, garlic, olive oil, and salt and black pepper to taste. Broil for 30 minutes, tossing every 10 minutes. Be careful not to burn everything, but you’ll want a nice char on the veggies. Leave that broiler on and crank it up to high!
Transfer the charred veggies to a large Dutch oven. Add the tomato puree and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture up to a rolling boil, then cook over low heat for 30 minutes.
While the soup is bubbling away, we’re going to make our grilled cheese crostini. Toast your slices of bread, then rub each slice with the garlic clove. Put a nice handful of mozzarella and sharp cheddar on each slice. Put them on a baking sheet and broil for only 2 minutes or so. Watch these; please do not burn them! We need these melty but not browned.
Puree the entire soup mixture and serve with as many grilled cheese crostini as you can stack!
INSTRUCTIONS SABICH WITH CUCUMBER, TOMATO, AND PICKLED HOT PEPPERS
INGREDIENTS
2 cups cherry tomatoes, quartered Kosher salt
¼ cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound Italian eggplant (about 2), cut in ½-inch cubes
2 cups diced cucumber
5 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
¼ cup pickled banana peppers, roughly chopped
3 cups thinly shredded green cabbage
¼ cup parsley, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons roughly chopped mint Juice of 1 lemon, plus more as needed
2 tablespoons your favorite hot sauce, plus more as needed
5 pitas
½ red onion, thinly sliced
TAHINI DRESSING
8 garlic cloves, peeled
¾ cup lemon juice 1½ cups tahini
1 tablespoon ground cumin 3
tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon kosher salt
PREP TIME: 2 HOURS
In a medium bowl, mix together the cherry tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of salt. Transfer to a fine-mesh strainer and let it macerate for 1 hour, allowing any excess liquid to drain off.
Line a plate with paper towels. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add ¼ cup of the olive oil. Test the oil with a piece of eggplant; if it sizzles right away, your oil is up to temperature. Add all the eggplant and sear on each side until the eggplant is golden brown, 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer to the paper towel– lined plate to drain and cool. Reserve the skillet for toasting the pita.
While the eggplant is cooling, let’s make the tahini dressing. In a food processor, combine the garlic and lemon juice. Blend until the garlic is completely broken down, 1 minute. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a medium bowl, discarding the pulp. Combine the garlic and lemon juice mixture with the tahini, cumin, olive oil, and salt. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Once the eggplant is cool, place them in a large bowl. Rinse and pat the tomato dry to remove all moisture and salt. Add the salted tomato, cucumber, hard- boiled eggs, banana peppers, cabbage, parsley, mint, lemon juice, ¼ cup of the tahini dressing, the hot sauce, and 1 tablespoon of salt. Gently toss everything together. Add more tahini dressing, hot sauce, salt, and lemon juice as desired.
In the reserved skillet, drain off the remaining olive oil and toast the pitas until they are warm, 1 minute on each side. Using a bread knife, cut along the side about a quarter of the way around the pita to form a pocket.
Serve the condiments and onions on separate plates for your guests and encourage them to build the sabich of their dreams while asking them about what they dream about.
FRIED SPAM KIMCHI GRILLED CHEESE
INGREDIENTS
One 12-ounce can Spam 1 cup your favorite kimchi 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
Four ½-inch-thick slices seeded bread
Margarine or butter, room temperature, for buttering your bread
4 slices marbled cheddar cheese 2 slices American cheese
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sriracha
¼ cup hoisin
1 tablespoon gochugaru
1 tablespoon garlic powder Juice of 1 lime
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Slice the Spam into 4 steaks. Drain the kimchi and chop it up so you don’t pull kimchi out of your mouth and get slapped with a hot piece of cabbage. Make sure you pull out as much liquid as possible by draining the liquid off and pressing a lot of the juice out.
In a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil and sear the Spam until it’s a nice golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Set that aside and wipe out the pan.
Using margarine or butter, butter one side of each slice of bread. Use margarine if you are a margarine person like I am because I never have room-temp butter.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. The key to a grilled cheese is to also put it in the oven.
In the same pan you used to cook the Spam, put 2 slices of your bread, buttered- side down. Top one bread with 2 slices of the marbled cheddar and the other with 1 slice of the American cheese. Put 2 slices of Spam on the American cheese side, side by side, and kimchi on the marbled cheese side. Flip your Spam side onto the kimchi.
Put the sandwich on a baking sheet and into the oven. Get it nice and hot. Flip every 2 to 3 minutes for about 10 minutes. Flip flip flip, it’s oozy, it’s cheesy, and the bread is nice and crusty.
Repeat by putting the remaining slices of bread into the pan and building your second sandwich. Do this only if you want to share this sandwich with someone. Or, if you want to crush two sandwiches on your own, this will be our secret. No one will know. This is a good one, though, so I hope you share. Put the second sandwich on the baking sheet and into the oven. Repeat the cook-and-flip process.
Take it out, and in the meantime, let’s make a little dipper, shall we? In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sriracha, hoisin, gochugaru, garlic powder, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. There’s your dip.
Cut each grilled cheese in half, right down the middle. No diagonal fancypants stuff here. You want to have a piece of Spam in each half. Get a couple of bites in and then dip it. Or eat half and then eat the other half dipped. Or dip it from the first bite. If I dip, we dip, we dip, dip.
Voca Pro
WE I G H T, L I F T E R S
Dope cocktails to keep you hydrated, and flying
COCKTAIL RECIPES BY ADRIAN STEIN DOPE COCKTAILS PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSH TENN-YUK @JOSHTEEWHY ON INSTAGRAM
The Ultra Violet Hour
TEAPOT BLUEBERRY CHAMOMILE, VIOLET, CHERRY PLUM, WHITE GRAPEFRUIT, LEMONGRASS, LUSTRE DUST
This Dope Mocktail is inspired by the ritual of drinking a cup of tea as we wind down our busy days. We start by gently warming half a can of Teapot blueberry chamomile tea. Chamomile tea is a natural remedy for a wide range of health issues. The nutrients it contains may help manage diabetes, menstrual pain, and sleep problems, among others. Added to the warmed tea is, violet syrup, freshly squeezed white grapefruit and cherry plum bitters. On a low temp, we add one stalk of lemongrass to macerate in the blend for approximately 10 minutes. We fortify our infusion using 1 sachet of Dope Mocktails violet lustre dust, and some twinkle twinkle, and little stars. This Dope Teapot nightcap can be served warm or over ice.
Tropical Blue Blazer
PASSIONFRUIT,
BLUE SPIRULINA, LIME, MANGO CHILI SALT, QUSH QUBE
This Dope Mocktail is inspired by Fire and Ice, both offering different healing qualities in their own way. We start by blending fresh passionfruit and lime juice together. We add blue spirulina and cane sugar to balance the juice blend.
Blue Spirulina is a blue algae that offers numerous health benefits, such as anti inflammatory, anti oxidant and immune system enhancement. The glass is dusted using our housemade mango chili salt. This tropical, spicy beverage is infused using our new Dope Mocktail Qush Tube, 2.5mg THC & CBD per Qube.
Golden G.O.A.T. & Pineapple
GOLDEN GOAT TERPS, GINGER, ORANGE, AGAVE, TURMERIC & PINEAPPLE
This strain is certainly a GOAT for us. Inspired by the zing and uplifting qualities of Golden Goat, we have paired this terp profile with a G.O.A.T. profile of our own. Ginger beer, for heat on the palate, and inner calmness. Orange for flavour, sweetness and vitamin C. Agave, cause sometimes you need to “sweeten the pot”. Tumeric to add some spice, and all the healing qualities it offers. Ginger and turmeric are both excellent sources of protective compounds. The antioxidants found in ginger may help prevent heart disease and cancer. Turmeric packs even more of an antioxidant punch. Last, but not least we add fresh golden pineapple puree to the mix. This Dope Mocktail will have you feeling fineapple from the Golden G.O.A.T. & Pineapple
Crabapple Melon Colly
PRESSED CRABAPPLE, HONEYDEW, COLLAGEN HONEY, YUZU, SELTZER
A crabapple a day keeps the crappy vibes away… or something like that? We start with pressed crabapples, an underused, seasonal flavour profile, tart, acidic and slightly bitter. We add 1 squirt of honeydew puree, adding a soft, fresh secondary profile. We then add 15ml of Dope Mocktails 1:1 Collagen CBG Honey Syrup, and 15ml Yuzu for balance. This Dope Mocktail is then topped with seltzer water to taste. Inspired by a much needed mid afternoon break under the apple tree.
Marc Garneau is the first Canadian astronaut to go to space, and when he came home he worked tirelessly in the House of Commons. His experiences gleaned from a life of service are messages that can help us all.
A MOST EXTRAORDINARY RIDE
A Most Extraordinary Ride is the name of Marc Garneau’s memoir and the book is riveting, plain-spoken, inspiring and helpful, especially as we devote this issue to wellness and mental health. Garneau was the Liberal House Leader, Minister of Transport and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and, despite all of that, he didn’t take himself too seriously and he always prioritised family. He also worked on legalising cannabis within the Liberal Party. These are his words of wisdom for KIND.
Ben Kaplan: You write, ‘the possibility of becoming an astronaut awakened something in me.’ All of us yearn for such a strong feeling. How did you leave yourself open for the sign?
Marc Garneau: When it comes to choosing a path in life, some are willing to take a chance while others prefer to play it safe. I discovered as I grew up that I was attracted to challenges, and was willing to accept some risk because of the rewards it might bring. I’ll admit it didn’t always end well in my early years during my rebellious phase, but even then, it was a valuable learning experience.
BK: Your book is called A Most Extraordinary Ride, something we all want our lives to be. What would you tell our readers wishing to feel the same way about themselves, when the time comes to look back on their life?
MG: To quote Brando from “On the Waterfront”: “I coulda been a contender”. I did not want that to be me. In retrospect, it’s not the occasional failure that matters, it’s
the regret that you didn’t do what you really wanted to do.
BK: For such a serious man with such important responsibilities—someone who claims not to have charisma—why (and how) did you resolve not to take yourself too seriously?
MG: Very simple. Because I make mistakes like everyone else and I don’t need to put additional pressure on myself by worrying unduly about my image and what people think when I do make a mistake. Learn from it and move on.
BK: You write, “we’re at our best when we’re young.” Let’s presume our readers are 25 with bright futures ahead of them. How do you navigate risk with responsibilities?
MG: When were young, we’re at our best in terms of being imaginative, creative and full of energy, so we should set out on our chosen path with confidence and be willing to take on responsibilities without shying away from reasonable levels of risk, knowing
that over time, based on the setbacks we encounter, we will also acquire good judgement and wisdom.
BK: “If there was ever a moment in my conscious existence when I had to be committed to what I was doing, it was when the rocket I was sitting on ignited,” you write. Mr. Garneau, how did that feel?
MG: It was when I discovered that, despite the fear and excitement of the moment, I was able to keep it together and remain focused. You don’t know that until you experience it. Since then, life’s more intimidating moments are no longer as frightening.
BK: For all of your accomplishments, none of us escape hard times. Obviously, Jacqueline’s mental health, and the resulting single parenthood, left you vulnerable and scared. What tools did you lean on to provide stability under tremendous pressure for your kids?
MG: The stark realisation that I had no
choice. I had to deal with what life had thrown at me. I had to reprioritize my life. Nothing mattered more now than my duties as a parent. My focus had to be on my 11-year-old twins. Fortunately, without realizing it, they were a tremendous source of strength for me as we dealt with the loss of their mother. My parents and friends were also incredibly supportive.
BK: Perhaps our readers are cynical about politics and politicians. Why would you encourage them to reconsider those ideas?
MG: That’s a tough assignment because, unfortunately, politicians give people reasons to be cynical about them and politics in general. That said, I would add
this. Most politicians are well-intentioned and work hard. However, that is seldom acknowledged by the media since it’s not as newsworthy as their bad behaviour, (which I’m certainly not excusing). Hence the skewed portrait we have of politicians. Bottom line: politicians can and should do better.
BK: You were in Ottawa when the Liberal party voted to legalize cannabis and you write, “it was implemented without much fuss.” This issue comes out on the sixth anniversary of cannabis legalization. Do you see it as a success or failure and can you explain why?
MG: I see it as a success. At the same time,
in addition to understanding the laws surrounding its use, anyone who decides to consume cannabis should understand its potential effects and take full responsibility for their consumption (just like certain other legal substances).
BK: Leave us with this, sir: Why should we all be hopeful for the future?
MG: Because, despite those who say we are helpless passive bystanders watching what is unfolding around us, I have seen enough of life to know that’s not true. The vast majority of us, in our own way, are trying to create a better future, and that gives me confidence that it will happen, despite the many obstacles along the way.
