In this episode, Kyla sits down with Irena Katz - naturopath, educator, and pioneer of Australia’s herbal vape industry. From opening one of the first hydro stores in the country to helping shape a new understanding of plant medicine, Irina’s story is equal parts science, grit, and heart.

She shares how a heartbreaking moment when her one-year-old whippet, Lux, faced leg amputation led her to experiment with CBD almost two decades ago. What followed changed everything: not only did Lux keep his leg, but Irena’s belief in the plant deepened, setting her on a lifelong path of education and advocacy.

Together, Kyla and Irena unpack the realities of running a hydro store when cannabis was still taboo, the double standards in Australia’s vape laws, and why real harm reduction starts with honest conversations. They also explore the stigma that still surrounds women who use the plant and the urgent need for open, non-judgmental education from budtenders to doctors.

This is a raw, funny, and deeply human conversation about courage, curiosity, and creating community through the plant.

You’ll hear:

• How Irena helped bring herbal vapes to Australia
• The story of Lux, the dog who inspired her CBD journey
• Why stigma still drives secrecy among women who use cannabis
• What harm reduction really looks like in practice
• The missing link in doctor education about the endocannabinoid system
• Irina’s vision for community-led, plant-positive spaces

Contact

You can find Irena on Instagram @ladylux420 check out her amazing range of canna products here www.wearelux.com.au

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

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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.