In this episode of the Canna Curious Podcast, Kyla sits down with Crystal from Northern Rivers Hemp to unpack her inspiring journey from working in the disability sector to running a 75-acre hemp farm in Nimbin with her husband. Crystal shares how a hemp license unexpectedly arrived in the mail during the pandemic, sparking a complete career pivot and eventually leading to the creation of a hemp farming co-op.

Together we explore:

• What hemp really is, and the differences between hemp, CBD, and THC
• Crystal’s path into farming, leaving the disability sector, starting from scratch, and building community
• The Northern Rivers Hemp Co-op and how local farmers pooled skills to create products and opportunities
• Policy change and advocacy, including Crystal’s role in the NSW Hemp Task Force and her work with politicians
• Hemp-based wellness and beauty products, and why hemp can be used topically in Australia but not ingested
• Bee-friendly farming practices and the importance of protecting native stingless bees
• Hemp in building materials, from hempcrete houses to Jason’s new hemp building certification
• A rare cannabinoid, CBL, discovered in Northern Rivers crops and possibly unique to the region

Why listen
This is more than a farming story. It is about community, resilience, and the future of hemp in Australia. Whether you are curious about plant medicine, sustainability, or rural entrepreneurship, Crystal’s story shows what is possible when passion meets persistence.

Resources and Links

• Visit the Northern Rivers Hemp Shop in Nimbin’s main street
• Follow Northern Rivers Hemp on social media for updates on hemp farming, products, and advocacy. @northernrivershemp
• State Senator for LCP Jeremy Buckingham @cannabisjeremy
• Learn more about hemp building: Australian Hemp Masonry Company https://www.hempmasonry.com.au/
• Stingless Bee Buzz @stingless_bee_buzz

"Send us a message"

Support the show

Connect with Kyla de Clifford
Instagram: @cannacuriousaus
TikTok: @cannacuriousau
YouTube: @cannacurious

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, share, and leave a review - it helps the podcast reach more curious minds just like you.

Disclaimer:
We are not doctors, and this is not medical advice. Everything shared here is based on our personal lived experiences and the stories of others. Always speak with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or wellness routine.