Best The Cole Memo Podcasts (2025)

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#201 - Clout and Cannabis in Illinois: A Conversation with Tom Schuba of the Sun-Times 35:10

5d ago35:10

35:10

We’ve heard promises of equity and transparency, but has Illinois delivered? Chicago Sun-Times reporter Tom Schuba joins me to unpack how political connections, limited transparency, and data protections have shaped Illinois’ cannabis rollout. We discuss his latest story for the Sun-Times, which details how insiders with clout have secured a footho…

1
What Happened to Unions? How Can We Reunionize? 29:53

6d ago29:53

29:53

In today's episode, I am talking about the participation of Black people in unions. I dive into the importance of the CIO (Congressional Industrial Organizations) into being the first interracial union. CIO's efforts also branched into the policies developed into the civil rights episode. For the pop culture section, I talk about the lack of unions…

1
#200 - Ray Long returns to discuss Illinois' Stalled Ethics Reform Efforts 36:27

7d ago36:27

36:27

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined once again by Chicago Tribune reporter and author Ray Long for a deep dive into Illinois’ ongoing ethics crisis. We discuss his recent reporting on how, despite a wave of public corruption convictions—including former House Speaker Mike Madigan—lawmakers have made little effort to close glaring loopholes…

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#199 - Cannabis Odor Bill Moves Forward but a “Compromise” Could Weaken It 1:42:25

9d ago1:42:25

1:42:25

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I break down the latest twists in Illinois’ cannabis odorproof container bill—now the furthest it's ever advanced. We look at the House committee vote, unpack surprising testimony, and examine concerns over racial disparities, DUI enforcement, and so-called “trafficking loopholes.” I also share exclusive info from …

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#198 - Seeds of Change: Jason Brown on Education, Equity, and Five Years of Legal Weed in Illinois 2:00:03

10d ago2:00:03

2:00:03

In this episode of The Cole Memo, host Cole Preston welcomes Jason Brown, founder of Illinois News Joint, for a wide-ranging conversation covering five years of legal cannabis in Illinois, the rise of hemp, the evolution of product reviews, and his latest effort to give back: launching two scholarships for cannabis students at SIU and Oakton Colleg…

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#197 - Starting a small cannabis business in the state of Illinois 2:08:27

12d ago2:08:27

2:08:27

In this episode, I'll be joined by a small business owner to talk about how and why they started a cannabis business in the state of Illinois. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/09/e197/By Cole Preston

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#196 - Unpacking the Rules: Who Gets to Sell Cannabis in Illinois? 2:57:08

13d ago2:57:08

2:57:08

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole explores the widening divide between state-marijuana programs and the federally legal hemp market—two systems selling identical products under very different rules. I'll be joined by a guest in the state-marijuana program and a guest that participates in the federally legal hemp market. Watch video version and…

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#195 - IL Cannabis Business Owners Call for Change 1:25:33

13d ago1:25:33

1:25:33

In this live stream, I’ll cover a recent press conference where Illinois cannabis business owners called for relief from steep fees and burdensome regulations. I’ll also discuss Trump’s pick to lead the DEA, who recently said that reviewing marijuana’s federal status will be one of his first priorities, along with other updates. Watch video version…

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#194 - Dispensaries attacked with molotov cocktail & other news 1:26:21

18d ago1:26:21

1:26:21

In this episode, I'll be talking about a few dispensaries that were attacked with molotov cocktails and other news. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/02/e194/By Cole Preston

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#193 - The latest in cannabis news 34:42

19d ago34:42

34:42

In this episode, I share some of the latest cannabis news that has caught my attention. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/02/e193/By Cole Preston

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#192 – Inside the Silence: Military Sexual Trauma 1:48:08

20d ago1:48:08

1:48:08

Trigger warning: this episode contains detailed discussions of sexual violence, PTSD, and suicide. In this powerful and emotional episode of The Cole Memo, returning guest Torrin Richelle opens up about her experience with military sexual trauma (MST) during her service in the U.S. Army. She recounts the harassment, assault, and institutional failu…

1
#191 - Live chat with Two Dope Dudes 1:53:20

24d ago1:53:20

1:53:20

In this special episode of The Cole Memo, I’m joined by Aaron and Dave — the voices behind The Elevated News Podcast and the driving forces behind SupportDopePeople.com. We talk about how their show started during the pandemic and how they’re using media to push cannabis culture forward in Illinois and beyond. We also reflect on breaking news aroun…

1
#190 - Help End Cannabis-Odor-Based Vehicle Searches in Illinois 8:59

27d ago8:59

8:59

In this quick update, I share important news about Senate Bill 42, which would remove Illinois' requirement that cannabis be transported in an odorproof container—helping to end police searches based solely on the smell of cannabis. I explain where the bill stands, how you can help by filing a witness slip before the April 29 deadline, and why this…

1
#189 - Banning Progress: How Texas Could Roll Back Cannabis Reform 58:22

1M ago58:22

58:22

On this special Bicycle Day episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined by Austin Zamhariri of the Texas Cannabis Collective for a deep dive into Texas' escalating cannabis policy battles. We discuss the looming threat of a full hemp ban, the failures of the state's restrictive medical program, and how Texas' hemp market has provided broader legal access …

1
#188 – Power, Patronage, and the House That Madigan Built: A Conversation with Ray Long 1:20:46

1M ago1:20:46

1:20:46

Award-winning investigative journalist Ray Long joins Cole Preston for a deep dive into the political legacy of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan—arguably the most powerful figure in the state’s modern political history. Read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/19/e188/By Cole Preston

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#187 - Illinois Medical Cannabis Portal Is Getting an Upgrade 21:58

1M ago21:58

21:58

In this episode, I share updates on the upcoming changes to Illinois’ medical cannabis portal—something I’ve been tracking since 2023. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/18/e187/By Cole Preston

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#186 - Behind the Counter: A Perspective on Smoke Shops & Legal Highs 1:21:41

1M ago1:21:41

1:21:41

Step inside the world of smoke shops with this eye-opening episode as we talk with Justine about the surprising—and sometimes concerning—realities of selling legal highs. From kratom and tianeptine (aka “gas station heroin”) to meth pipes, fake pee, and THCP gummies that can leave you high for days, we explore what people are really buying, why the…

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#185 – Recapping Hash Bash of 2025 1:32:44

1M ago1:32:44

1:32:44

This live episode of The Cole Memo takes you straight to Ann Arbor for a boots-on-the-ground look at Hash Bash 2025. Phil returns from Michigan to talk about the storied cannabis protest, the wild mix of licensed and underground vendors, and how Ann Arbor feels like another country when it comes to drug policy. We unpack its historical roots, moder…

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DEI Rollback and Fall of Affirmative Action with Dr. Eddie Cole 1:35:23

1M ago1:35:23

1:35:23

For this episode, I go through the pros and cons of affirmative action with HBCUs. I also talked with Dr. Eddie Cole about his book "The Campus Color Line: College Presidents and the Struggle for Black Freedom". In the interview, we discuss the hardships of Black presidents during the civil rights movement. (Keep in mind that this interview was rec…

1
#184 - Breaking: Illinois Senate Advances SB42 to Curb Vehicle Searches Based on Cannabis Odor 9:35

1M ago9:35

9:35

In this episode, I share some breaking news for Illinois cannabis consumers. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/11/e184/By Cole Preston

1
#183 - Is Your Legal Weed Safe? Hemp's Future and Other Cannabis News 1:42:35

2M ago1:42:35

1:42:35

In this live stream, I will dive into surprising findings from journalists on the safety of legal weed, explore what's ahead for hemp, and cover other key stories from the cannabis world. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/01/e183/By Cole Preston

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A Love Memo To Our Listeners 2:46

2M ago2:46

2:46

Hello beautiful listeners and friends. We are taking a pause to reset and focus! Thank you for being on this journey with us! This is not a goodbye but a see you later. Let's stay connected! @luce.inspiration Leave us a voice memo, what has been your favorite episode to date? Sending you so much love 💚…

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#182 - The State of Cannabis: Finding Common Ground with Livi McKay 1:32:36

2M ago1:32:36

1:32:36

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I’m joined by Livi McKay, CEO and founder of MyTEPI and the Discover Your Color platform, for a deep dive into cannabis, "hemp", and the evolving landscape of plant-based wellness. Livi shares her powerful personal journey—from overcoming severe health issues using cannabis to becoming a leader in quality managemen…

1
#181 – Behind the Brothel Door: A Candid Look at Legal Sex Work with Ash 1:59:41

2M ago1:59:41

1:59:41

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Ash, a former legal sex worker in Nevada, who shares her perspective on the harsh realities behind the glitzy illusion of brothel work. From starting on OnlyFans to navigating the complexities of legal brothels, Ash offers firsthand accounts of financial struggles, safety concerns, and the psychological …

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#180 – Illinois Politics Unplugged: Representative Dan Caulkins on Policy, Power, and the Future 2:17:30

2M ago2:17:30

2:17:30

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston sits down with (former) Illinois State Representative Dan Caulkins for a candid discussion about the challenges of serving in the Illinois General Assembly. Together, they unpack the state’s pressing issues, including protectionist legislation, the effectiveness of bans, and the controversial Illinois …

1
#179 – Illinois Senator Ventura’s Push for Reform: Cannabis, Drug Policy, and Campaign Finance 1:27:32

2M ago1:27:32

1:27:32

In this episode, I travel to Joliet, Illinois, to sit down with Senator Rachel Ventura. We discuss her groundbreaking legislation that could end vehicle searches based solely on the smell of cannabis, a longstanding issue impacting cannabis consumers across Illinois. Senator Ventura shares the story behind the bill, the challenges with current laws…

1
#178 - Medical or Rec? Why This Receipt is Raising Questions 1:17:57

2M ago1:17:57

1:17:57

In this stream, I’m breaking down a strange dispensary glitch with the customer who caught it. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/21/e178/By Cole Preston

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Episode 177 – “Booger Sugar” in Smoke Shops? Plus the Latest Cannabis News! 57:20

3M ago57:20

57:20

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I talk about legal “booger sugar” that is for sale in smoke shops and I share some cannabis news stories that caught my eye. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/08/e177/By Cole Preston

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#175 - Debating Prohibitionists & Cannabis Industry Moves 43:01

3M ago43:01

43:01

Cole responds to criticism over his interview with Every Brain Matters’ Aubrey Adams(episode available soon at ColeMemo.com/Patreon), defending open dialogue and the importance of engaging with opposing views. He tackles claims that hosting prohibitionists is harmful, arguing that avoiding an echo chamber only weakens the movement. The episode also…

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#176 - How YOU Can Help Legalize Cannabis Lounges & Events in Illinois 1:39:31

3M ago1:39:31

1:39:31

In this episode of The Cole Memo, host Cole Preston discusses House Bill 3061, the On-Premise Cannabis Consumption Act, with advocates Nathan, Maddie, and Dipesh from the Illinois Cannabis Consumption Association. They break down how the bill would allow municipalities to permit cannabis lounges and events, creating safer spaces for consumers while…

1
#174 - Inside the Honeycomb Hideout Retreat: Illinois’ Cannabis Oasis 1:45:23

3M ago1:45:23

1:45:23

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I visit the Honeycomb Hideout Retreat in Addison, Illinois, for a deep dive into this unique cannabis-friendly space. I sit down with Mark Kunicki, the founder, to discuss how the retreat fosters community, education, and access to high-quality cannabis products. From networking and game nights to medical card cons…

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#173 – Madigan’s Fall and Illinois’ Ethics Crossroads featuring Jeremy Gorner 18:40

3M ago18:40

18:40

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole sits down with Jeremy Gorner of the Chicago Tribune to discuss the fallout from former Speaker Michael Madigan’s conviction and its implications for Illinois politics. They explore Governor Pritzker’s brief, off-the-cuff reference to Madigan during his budget address, the GOP’s renewed calls for ethics reform,…

1
#172 - I testified against the police! 1:23:16

3M ago1:23:16

1:23:16

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole breaks down Senate Bill 42, which could end Illinois' requirement for odor-proof cannabis containers and stop police from searching cars based solely on the smell of weed. Joined by Phil, they discuss Cole’s testimony at the state Senate hearing, law enforcement pushback, and the broader implications for perso…

1
#171 - Illinois resident sues law enforcement for seizing legal cannabis 1:14:40

3M ago1:14:40

1:14:40

In this live episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston kicks things off with updates on the Real ID deadline and other news before diving into the main story: a groundbreaking lawsuit where Illinois State Police were forced to return legally seized cannabis and cash. He also explores racial disparities in enforcement and breaks down the ongoing debate…

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#169 - RFK Jr. Comments on Cannabis, New Consumption Bill in Illinois, and more! 1:02:01

3M ago1:02:01

1:02:01

In this live Valentine's Day episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston covers major cannabis policy updates in Illinois, including new bills that could legalize on-premise consumption at hospitality venues and eliminate the state's controversial odor-proof container requirement. He also breaks down RFK Jr.'s recent comments on cannabis and their poten…

1
#170 - Illinois Hemp Farm Raided by Police 1:14:19

3M ago1:14:19

1:14:19

In this special live episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston is joined by co-host Phil and guest Demarcus Medley, owner of Green Lords Farms in Galesburg, Illinois. They dive into Demarcus’s journey from urban farming with aquaponics to becoming one of Illinois’ first Black hemp farmers. Demarcus shares the harrowing story of being raided by police …

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#168 - Is Hemp Hurting Illinois’ Cannabis Market? Solutions & Must-Know News 1:33:05

3M ago1:33:05

1:33:05

In this episode of The Cole Memo, we break down Illinois' record-breaking cannabis sales in 2024 and explore what these numbers really mean. While the state touts economic growth, we examine the growing divide between corporate operators and social equity businesses, as well as the ongoing battle over hemp-derived cannabinoids. Plus, we discuss Gov…

1
#167 - Chicago City Hall Discusses Regulating Hemp Instead Of Banning 1:53:26

3M ago1:53:26

1:53:26

As Illinois braces for snow, Cole and Phil dive into a jam-packed episode covering recent cannabis legislation, regulatory updates, and the ongoing debate over hemp-derived THC. They break down new proposals, including a bill to expand home cultivation limits and efforts to introduce cannabis delivery in the state. The conversation also explores th…

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#166 - Goblin Roasts Verano, Illinois Cannabis Sales Soar, and THC Limits Challenged 1:24:17

3M ago1:24:17

1:24:17

In this live episode of The Cole Memo, we discuss cannabis influencer Goblin's scathing response to Verano's sponsorship offer. We also break down Illinois’ record-breaking cannabis sales, surpassing $2 billion in 2024, and dive into a bizarre lawsuit challenging THC potency limits in concentrates. Plus, I’m joined by live callers! Want to call in …

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#165 - Latest Illinois Cannabis News 22:24

4M ago22:24

22:24

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I review the latest in Illinois cannabis news: A new bill in the Illinois General Assembly could put an end to vehicle searches based solely on cannabis odor. I break down what this means, the legal background, and the potential impact. I also touch on the ongoing debate between hemp and marijuana and how state pol…

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#164 - Hemp Regulation Battles, Political Tensions, And Illinois Ethics In Focus 34:08

4M ago34:08

34:08

n this episode of The Cole Memo, I sit down with Jeremy Gorner from the Chicago Tribune to discuss the latest developments in Illinois politics and policy. We dive into the heated debate over hemp regulation, including the behind-the-scenes lobbying efforts by Governor Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Jeremy shares insights on how these …

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#163 - Did the Lame Duck Push to Ban Hemp in Illinois Lack Support? 2:09:17

4M ago2:09:17

2:09:17

In this episode of The Cole Memo, we examine the failed lame duck effort to ban federally-legal cannabis products in Illinois. Was there ever enough support for the controversial bill, or did political tensions and public opposition seal its fate? Tune in for a recap on this high-stakes legislative showdown. Watch video version and read full show n…

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#162 - Hash Wednesday: Reviving Tradition, Challenging the War on Drugs 1:01:18

4M ago1:01:18

1:01:18

In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Jesus, a passionate advocate who helped reignite the historic Hash Wednesday tradition at the University of Illinois. You can learn more about Hash Wednesday at ColeMemo.com/History. During the episode, Cole and Jesus explore the event's roots, the camaraderie it fosters, and the ongoing fight against th…

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#161 - Cannabis Remediation, Regulation, and Beyond 1:11:27

4M ago1:11:27

1:11:27

I’m joined by Maddie Scanlon, founder of High Focus Media and the Illinois Cannabis Consumption Association, to unpack the hot topic of cannabis remediation, Illinois' strict testing standards, and the need for better transparency in labeling. We also explore the role of hemp in cannabis policy and how normalization through consumption advocacy is …

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#160 - From Brick Weed to Artisanal Craft: Cannabis Innovation with Dustin Shroyer 1:45:10

4M ago1:45:10

1:45:10

In this episode, I sit down with Dustin, the former COO and President of Revolution Cannabis in Illinois, to explore his journey from early experiments with homegrown cannabis in the 90s to shaping cutting-edge cultivation and extraction techniques. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/01/17/e160/…

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#159 - Social Equity, Cannabis Testing, and the .3% Line 2:04:32

4M ago2:04:32

2:04:32

In this episode, Cole Preston sits down with Miggy and Phil for a lively discussion on the evolving dynamics of the hemp and cannabis industries. They explore the blurred lines between hemp and marijuana, the implications of Illinois' strict regulations, and the impact of social equity programs. From consumer safety concerns with synthetic products…

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#158 - Illinois Cannabis Transport Challenges & Hemp 2:15:33

4M ago2:15:33

2:15:33

In this episode, I welcome Ted Parks, chairman of the Independent Third-Party Carriers Association (ITPCA), to discuss the trials and triumphs of independent cannabis transporters in Illinois. We'll also be discussing hemp! Watch video version and see full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/01/10/e158/…

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#157 - Law Enforcement Perspective on Cannabis Legalization and Policy 1:03:03

4M ago1:03:03

1:03:03

In this episode, Cole engages in a thought-provoking conversation with RJ, a former law enforcement officer with 20 years of experience at local, state, and federal levels, including work with DHS and border security. This episode is audio only. Read full show notes: https://thecolememo.com/2025/01/10/e157/…

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#18 24 lessons learned in 2024 32:05

5M ago32:05

32:05

24 lessons learned in 2024 December is flying by, and before we know it, we’ll be counting down to the New Year. As the year draws to a close, it’s a natural time to reflect on all we’ve accomplished—and perhaps on the things we didn’t quite achieve. But even in our missteps, there are valuable lessons to be learned, guiding us toward growth and ne…

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Mini Doc: Cannabis Legalization In Illinois 1:00:09

5M ago1:00:09

1:00:09

This documentary uncovers the hidden flaws in Illinois’ cannabis legalization, detailing how excitement turned into a complex web of criminal penalties and inequities. Through in-depth analysis and interviews, it reveals how promises of reform were overshadowed by political interests and limited access, leaving many residents still facing criminal …

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