In the debut episode of Beyond the Baja, we tackle the frustrating stagnation of the U.S. hemp industry—stuck in endless pilot programs, policy discussions, and summits that lead nowhere. Despite years of talk about scaling industrial hemp fiber, farmers and processors are still waiting for real infrastructure investment and viable markets.
Why is progress stalling? Why do the same voices dominate industry panels while those working on the ground see little change? This episode explores the disconnect between advocacy and industry needs, funding gaps that leave the backbone of the sector unsupported, and systemic roadblocks keeping hemp in limbo.
This isn’t about pointing fingers—it’s about asking hard questions, learning from history, and challenging the status quo. If we want real movement, we need to rethink investment, policy, and supply chain development.
Before we dive in, a quick intro: I’m Aaron Furman. I spend a lot of time writing reports most people never read, which is why I started this podcast—to cut through the noise and make sense of this industry. My background spans agricultural finance, certification schemes, commodity markets, and supply chain transparency. From fieldwork to policy discussions, I’ve gained a 360-degree view of the challenges we face.
Today, I serve as Chair of the Colorado Hemp Advisory Committee, work with Peterson Control Union as a global voice for industrial hemp, and lead government affairs and farmer services for the largest U.S. textile manufacturer specializing in hemp/cotton denim. One thing is clear: Without structural support, a sustainable U.S. hemp supply chain remains out of reach.
So, let’s break the cycle. This episode isn’t about THC levels or cannabinoid debates—it’s about infrastructure, supply chains (or the lack thereof), and the transparency brands need to stand behind their products.
Grab your coffee, put on your thinking cap, and let’s dive into Adapting to a Changing Global Landscape: Hemp, Innovation, and the Future of Sustainability.
