This episode pulls no punches. It shines a glaring spotlight on the hypocrisy of a booming cannabis industry that coexists with a justice system still punishing people for the same plant. These are the real stories behind the stats—the human cost of prohibition, and the fight to end it. In this powerful and emotionally charged episode of The High Ya Doin Show, we take you to Washington D.C. for the Prisoners Day of Unity, an event bringing together pardoned and clemency-granted cannabis prisoners to raise awareness for the thousands still incarcerated for non-violent cannabis offenses. While corporations rake in profits and states collect taxes from legal cannabis, these voices remind us of the injustice still faced by those criminalized by outdated laws. We sit down with a lineup of deeply inspiring guests whose personal stories of survival, advocacy, and transformation embody the true spirit of this movement.

This week we’re joined by Shawn McCarron of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Cannabis Division for a conversation that bridges personal experience with professional advocacy. Shawn opens up about his first brush with cannabis — an unexpected moment at a Navy museum with his dad — and how hanging out with the breakdancing crowd later fueled his curiosity and love for the plant.

He takes us behind the scenes of the Teamsters’ growing efforts in Washington D.C., where they're pushing for stronger protections, better wages, and real benefits for cannabis workers across the country. Shawn also shares his path into the union movement, highlighting the challenges, victories, and the urgent need for labor rights within the evolving cannabis industry. Whether you're a consumer, a worker, or an advocate, this episode shines a light on how organized labor is reshaping the future of cannabis — one contract at a time.

In this special crossover episode, The High Ya Doin Show teams up with Cannasations with Kris for an unforgettable weekend at the 2025 NECANN Boston — one of the East Coast’s premier cannabis events. From exclusive interviews with NBA legend Gary Payton, to conversations with prolific East Coast cultivators reviving those classic earthy gas strains.

We also connect with cannabis tech startups pushing the boundaries and passionate activists spreading awareness to the masses. It’s a celebration of community, craft, and cannabis.

Step into the world of top-tier cannabis with Toni Iovieno, co-owner of the Dab Rite Cup and multiple-time High Times Cup champion. Toni has traveled across the country, mastering the craft of growing and extracting award-winning cannabis and rosin, solidifying his reputation as a true guru in the industry. This podcast dives deep into the evolving landscape of cannabis, from the high-stakes world of rosin competitions to the business and regulatory challenges shaping the market. Toni breaks down the influence of Multi-State Operators (MSOs) on small businesses, the gaps in consumer education, and the need for standardized testing procedures in Massachusetts and beyond.

With firsthand stories, expert insights, and candid discussions, Toni sheds light on the past, present, and future of cannabis—offering a raw and unfiltered look at where the industry is headed. Whether you're a seasoned grower, an aspiring extractor, or a curious consumer, this show is your backstage pass to the culture, science, and business of cannabis.

On this episode we sit down with Danny Carson to uncover the harsh realities of working in the cannabis industry. While the booming market has opened doors for businesses and consumers, many workers who handle the plant daily are facing unsafe conditions—ranging from improper ventilation to prolonged exposure to harmful contaminants. Danny shares firsthand accounts of what’s happening behind the scenes, exposing the stark contrast between labs that prioritize safety and those that cut corners at the expense of workers and consumers.

As an advocate for better industry regulations, Danny breaks down the urgent need for reform, highlighting the health risks that workers face and the lack of oversight in some testing facilities. He also discusses what consumers should know about the products they’re using and why transparency in lab testing is crucial for safety.

If you’re in the industry, a consumer, or just curious about what really goes on behind closed doors, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Dive into the fight for safer working conditions and more responsible cannabis regulations.

In this episode, we welcome John Pettingell, the creator and owner of Kindly Baked Confections, a unique cannabis-infused edible brand. John is both a seasoned cannabis connoisseur and an experienced baking chef who specializes in creating gourmet cannabis treats using Full Extract Cannabis Oil (F.E.C.O.), a potent and full-spectrum form of cannabis extraction. His goal is to craft edibles that not only taste amazing but also offer the full range of medicinal and recreational benefits for users.

John opens up about the inspiration behind his baking journey, which started in his childhood kitchen with his grandmother, sparking a lifelong passion for food and flavor. As we dive deeper into his story, John reflects on the challenges he’s faced in breaking into the highly regulated legal cannabis industry and discusses the potential hurdles he might encounter when it comes to opening a cannabis establishment of his own in the future.

We also explore the evolving demographic of cannabis users and how John’s focus is on helping them achieve the healthiest, most fulfilling experience possible through cannabis. From beginners to seasoned users, he’s dedicated to providing his customers with the best edibles for wellness, relaxation, and healing. This episode offers a candid look at the intersection of culinary artistry, cannabis, and personal care — an inspiring journey for anyone interested in cannabis, baking, or the growing world of edibles.

On this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Nico and Ian from Fourteen Counties Concentrates for an in-depth chat about their journey and dedication to small-batch, craft cannabis. As pioneers in the Massachusetts market, Nico and Ian discuss how Fourteen Counties is working with local cultivators to bring the best craft cannabis concentrates to shelves while maintaining a focus on quality and authenticity. From their passion for rosin and paddle washing techniques to insights on the evolving cannabis industry, they share valuable perspectives on what makes Fourteen Counties stand out in the competitive landscape. Plus, enjoy some light-hearted fishing stories and a deep dive into the differences between the Massachusetts and Maine cannabis markets. Tune in for an episode filled with expert knowledge, great conversation, and a love for craft cannabis!

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Wes Jenks, President of XPOCANNA and the creator of the X-Cup, a premier cannabis competition that recognizes the best in multiple categories—ranging from flower and rosin to edibles and more. Wes gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how the fourth annual X-Cup has grown since its inception and what it takes to pull off such a high-profile event in the cannabis world. With a background that includes commercial real estate, a passion for wakeboarding, and a family business rooted in creating large-scale expos across industries, Wes brings a unique perspective on merging event production with the rapidly expanding cannabis market. If you're curious about the intersection of competition, community, and cannabis innovation, this episode is a must-listen!