Shows
BIOACTIVECannabis is Personalized Medicine with Lauren Avenius at Mary Jane BerlinThis week we are headed to Germany, this podcast was recorded at the world's largest cannabis expo called Mary Jane Berlin. I had the opportunity to jointly host and record a podcast with Lauren Avenius, the CEO of Node Labs. She is doing some ground breaking work with cannabis breeding and genetics and is doing an amazing job connecting people across the industry. Her work also encompasses other companies like Four20Pharma and Compound Genetics.
This conversation covers everything from strain specific effects, understanding dosing and consumption methods, and how our own genetics and the plant genetics ma...2025-07-2547 minBIOACTIVEHow Animals Medicate with Dr. Jaap De RoodeIn this conversation, host Dr. Riley Kirk and guest Dr. Jaap De Roode discuss the fascinating field of zoo pharmacognosy, exploring how animals medicate themselves using natural substances. He shares insights from his research on monarch butterflies and honeybees, highlighting the role of toxic compounds and fungi in animal health. The discussion also touches on the implications for agriculture, the importance of biodiversity, and the potential for learning from animal behaviors in medicine. Dr. De Roode emphasizes the need for more research in this area and the significance of maintaining natural ecosystems for the health of both animals and...2025-07-1159 minBIOACTIVE#NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe Shields: Exploring Cannabis Science and CommunityJoin us for a deep dive into the world of cannabis science with Dr. Miyabe Shields and host Dr. Riley Kirk cofounders of the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy. NAP is a nonprofit focused on studying the real world uses of cannabis and other natural products as well as the biochemical mechanisms.
In this episode, we discuss the latest updates on biochemistry projects, the importance of enzymes in the endocannabinoid system, and the exciting findings from the Science of Smokability study. Discover how community insights are shaping research and the future of cannabis as a medicine.
The role of enzymes...2025-06-271h 41BIOACTIVECannabis, Pregnancy, Fertility and Breastfeeding: A neuropharmacologist’s perspective with Dr. Michele RossIn this conversation, Dr. Michele Ross discusses the complexities of cannabis use during pregnancy, sharing her personal experiences and insights as a neuropharmacologist and fibromyalgia patient. The discussion highlights the lack of comprehensive research on the effects of cannabis, the comparative safety of cannabis versus traditional medications, and the stigma surrounding its use. Dr. Ross emphasizes the importance of advocacy, education, and support systems, including the role of doulas, in navigating the challenges faced by pregnant women considering cannabis as a treatment option. In this conversation, Dr. Michele Ross discusses the complexities of cannabis use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and...2025-06-131h 25BIOACTIVEWhat Happens When A Stoner Scientist Gets Pregnant... My Journey So FarIn this episode, Riley Kirk shares her personal journey through pregnancy, focusing on her experiences with cannabis use, tapering down her consumption, and the emotional and physical changes she faced.
She discusses the importance of mental health during this time, the role of her supportive partner, and the diagnosis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). The conversation also touches on the gender reveal process and the complexities of navigating a high-risk pregnancy. In this conversation, Riley Kirk shares her personal journey with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP), a rare liver condition that can occur during pregnancy. She...2025-05-3055 minBIOACTIVEThe Amazing Coevolution of Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed Plants with Dr. Anurag AgrawalIn this conversation, Host Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Anurag Agrawal discuss the intricate relationship between monarch butterflies and milkweed, exploring themes of coevolution, chemical ecology, and the ecological arms race. He explains how monarchs have adapted to survive the toxic compounds in milkweed, the challenges they face due to habitat destruction and pesticides, and the importance of conservation efforts. The discussion highlights the fascinating dynamics of species interactions and the need for community involvement in preserving biodiversity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Monarchs and Milkweed
06:32 The Co-evolutionary Dance
11:32 Monarchs...2025-05-161h 00BIOACTIVEFiguring out how THC works in the brain with Dr. Allyn HowlettIn this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Allyn Howlett—renowned neuroscientist and pioneer in cannabinoid research—shares her groundbreaking journey into the study of cannabis and the discovery of the CB1 receptor. Originally focused on neuronal hormones, Dr. Howlett recounts how her curiosity led to one of the most pivotal findings in medical cannabis science: the identification of the brain’s first cannabinoid receptor.
She dives into the mechanisms of THC, the function of cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, and the discovery of the endocannabinoid system. The conversation explores the historical development of cannabinoid resear...2025-05-031h 04BIOACTIVEThe Science Behind how CBD Works in the Brain with guest Dr. Josh KaplanIn this conversation, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Josh Kaplan delve into the complexities of cannabis research, particularly focusing on CBD and its therapeutic potential for conditions like epilepsy. Dr. Kaplan shares his journey into cannabis research, highlighting the significance of understanding CBD's mechanisms, the role of GPR55 in seizure management, and the challenges of dosing CBD effectively. They also discuss the entourage effect, the importance of personalized medicine, and the ongoing research into terpenes and their interactions with cannabinoids. The conversation emphasizes the need for further exploration in cannabis research to develop safe and effective therapies, especially for...2025-04-181h 10BIOACTIVEThe Science of the Dry and Cure Process with David Sandelman from CannatrolIn this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk interviews David Sandelman from Cannatrol, delving into the intricate processes of drying and curing cannabis. David shares his journey into the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of controlling environmental conditions to achieve optimal drying and curing results. The conversation explores the science behind water activity, the significance of terpene retention, and the implications of traditional drying methods like the 60-60 method. David highlights the impact of drying rates on the final product and discusses the potential for enzymatic processes to enhance the curing experience. The episode concludes with insights...2025-04-041h 00
GrowCast👃Aroma is MORE Than Just Terpenes, with Dr. Riley KirkGROWCAST CULTIVATORS CUP! APRIL 12TH, VIRGIL ILLINOIS: Grab your tickets today before they sell out at www.growcast.com/events The incredible Dr. Riley Kirk from Bioactive Podcast and so much more is here on the program for the very first time! Dr. Kirk tells us all about her extensive background in studying plant medicines, and what led her down the path of educating patients and diving into cannabis research. Riley shares some of the findings she's discovered through her extensive personal study and research, and enlightens home growers on how to more accurately think about things l...2025-03-3158 min
Picking DaisiesCannabis, Motherhood & Breaking the Stigma with Riley Kirk⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions about cannabis use, consumption methods, and its relationship with mental health and motherhood. This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any health or lifestyle changes.In this fascinating and educational conversation, Mary Hendricks and Riley Kirk, a cannabis educator and scientist, dive deep into the realities, myths, and stigmas surrounding cannabis use, particularly in the context of motherhood, mental health, and wellness.They explore the...2025-03-251h 23BIOACTIVEHomegrow Made Easy with Jordan River from GrowcastIn this conversation, Jordan River shares his journey into the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of home growing and the concept of Overgrow, which advocates for more individuals to cultivate their own plants. He discusses the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, the connection to nature, and the role of caregivers in supporting patients who cannot grow for themselves. The conversation highlights the value of homegrown cannabis compared to dispensary products and the need for community support in the cannabis culture. In this conversation, Jordan River and Riley Kirk delve into the complexities of cannabis cultivation, e...2025-03-211h 12BIOACTIVEChoosing the Right Cannabis Seeds with Dan Nelson from Happy Valley GeneticsIn this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dan Nelson from Happy Valley Genetics discuss the importance of home growing cannabis and the various types of seeds available. They delve into the differences between photoperiod and autoflower seeds, the benefits of feminized seeds, and what beginner growers should consider when selecting seeds. The conversation also touches on the evolution of cannabis genetics and the significance of disease resistance in cannabis cultivation. In this conversation, Dan Nelson and Riley Kirk delve into the intricacies of cannabis breeding, focusing on the importance of s...2025-03-0758 min
CannaBiz ConversationsDr. Allison Justice and Dr. Riley Kirk Part 01 - The Science of Smokability in Cannabis ResearchWelcome to Season 3 of the Cannabiz Conversation podcast! In this exciting episode, host Sean dives deep into the world of cannabis science with two incredible guests: Dr. Allison Justice and Dr. Riley Kirk.Join us as we explore their unique cannabis origin stories, from Allison's late-blooming experience in Amsterdam to Riley's early introduction to the plant in Maine. They share their journeys through academia and the cannabis industry, discussing the challenges and triumphs of conducting research in a rapidly evolving field.In the first half of the episode, we touch on the stigma surrounding cannabis...2025-03-0535 minBIOACTIVECannabis Medical Cards with Dr. June Chin from LeafwellIn this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk speaks with Dr. June Chin, Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell, about the evolving landscape of medical cannabis. They discuss the benefits of obtaining a medical card, the differences between medical and recreational cannabis, and the challenges faced by patients, including cost and accessibility. The conversation also delves into the sensitive topic of cannabis use and firearms, recent legal cases impacting this issue, and the importance of research in understanding the benefits of medical cannabis. Dr. Chin shares insights on th...2025-02-2159 minBIOACTIVEHow to Evaluate Quality Cannabis With Certified Ganjier Elizabeth SageIn this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, host Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Elizabeth Sage who is a certified Ganjier- which is essentially the weed equivalent to a sommelier in the wine world. In this conversation, Riley and Elizabeth delve into the intricate process of evaluating cannabis, discussing various aspects such as appearance, grinding techniques, flavor profiles, and the importance of set and setting in consumption. They share personal experiences with different strains and emphasize the significance of quality in cannabis products. The discussion also touches on the role of joint construction and...2025-02-071h 03
The Simpa Life Podcast| Dr Riley Kirk PhD | Ep 161 | Pharmacognosy | Reefer Wellness | UK Cannabis News |The Simpa Life Podcast Episode 161 features Dr Riley Kirk PhD a cannabis researcher, Scientist. Educator, and medical patient. They host the 'Bioactive Podcast', Co-Founder of the non-profit 'The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy', a member of the 'New Hampshire Cannabis Advisory Board' and an assistant adjunct professor at the University of Rhode Island.
Dr Riley Rirk Links: Bioactive Podcast | Applied Pharmacognosy | Instagram | YouTube |
News Links: Contact High Article | Jet 2 Article | Daily Mail Article | Jon Robson Comments | UK Drug Seizure Figures | Medicinal Cannabis Debate |
If you enjoyed this video, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing...2025-02-031h 20
Higher SpiritsHow Does Cannabis Connect Science, History, and Spirituality? Higher Spirits EP05 with Dr Riley Kirk, PhDIn this conversation, Lexi Kafkis and Riley Kirk, PhD delve into the intersections of cannabis, spirituality, and science. They explore the complexities of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the challenges of cannabis research, and the stigma surrounding cannabis use. The discussion highlights the therapeutic potential of cannabis, its role in mental health, and the importance of community knowledge. They also touch on the concept of clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CED) and the future of cannabis research, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced understanding of this plant and its effects on human health.
Takeaways
Cannabis has a unique...2025-01-291h 02BIOACTIVEUnlocking the Secrets of Hop Latent Viroid in Cannabis: Dr. Ali BektaşIn this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, host Dr. Riley Kirk dives deep into groundbreaking cannabis science with world-renowned molecular biologist Dr. Ali Bektaş. Dr. Bektaş has an impressive background in plant biology, microbes, and agriculture, specializing in affordable and distributed systems for detecting nucleic acids in agricultural environments. He has worked extensively with cannabis nurseries and biotech companies as a consultant, staff scientist, and Chief Science Officer. Notably, Dr. Bektaş was one of the first scientists to publicly identify Hop Latent Viroid (HLVd) in cannabis populations, a discovery that reshaped the industry's approach to disease management....2025-01-241h 06BIOACTIVESuppositories with Nurse Megan MbengueOn this episode of Bioactive, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Megan Mbengue, RN, MS. Megan is the owner of the cannabis company The Trusted Cannabis Nurse. She formulates custom products for patient specific needs as well as selling whole plant formulations through her website. The conversation discusses a recent study that Megan completed implementing the use of suppositories for pain relief during menstrual periods. Megan shares her study on the effectiveness of suppositories for period pain. The study involved 103 participants who completed two menstrual cycles, one without suppositories and one with suppositories. The r...2025-01-1151 min
CannaBuzz Bloom Booster - weekly cannabis showHow Cannabinoids & Terpenes Work with Dr. Riley Kirk from BioActive PodcastDr. Riley Kirk is a cannabis research scientist and educator. She obtained her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, specializing in natural product chemistry, and has studied the traditional and contemporary uses of hundreds of medicinal plants. In this episode, we explore cannabinoids and terpenes, discussing some of the most unique combinations, their effects, and more! Follow her for more: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/
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Join the CannaBuzz community! Use code "buzz" for a free month of access: https://www.cannabuzz.app...2025-01-071h 04BIOACTIVETop Cannabis Research From 2024 & What's New for Bioactive in 2025!🌱 In this episode of Bioactive, host Dr. Riley Kirk dives into her favorite cannabis research publications from 2024, sharing groundbreaking insights that advanced our understanding of this incredible plant.📖 Exciting News! Dr. Kirk's upcoming book, Reefer Wellness: Understanding Cannabis as Medicine, is AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER now!👉 Order Here✨ In this episode:
Highlights of key cannabis research papers from 2024.
Sneak peek at upcoming Bioactive Season 2025 guests.
New Year's cannabis resolutions for 2025.
Insight into Reefer Wellness, a must-read for anyone passionate about cannabis medicine.
📚 Read the research papers mentioned in the episode:
Cannabis Study in PMC
A...2024-12-2827 min
Real Talk with Jordan RileyPROOF Charlie Kirk & Candace Owens are evil | TPUSA has a Hidden AGENDACharlie Kirk & Candace Owens are hiding in plain sight. Their Agenda is dangerous and is deceiving many Americans. The truth that they spew is half-truths at best and they must be marked and avoided. You will also see that who they partner with is extremely alarming. Sadly many people in the Christian church today think that Charlie Kirk is solid and worth listening to, but if you take a serious look at him you will see that he is very dangerous. In this episode of Real Talk with Jordan Riley, you will see not only a Christian reaction but...2024-12-2616 min
The Mind Aura LabEP054 - Dr. Riley Kirk: Reefer Wellness, MJ Biz Con, & Alien TechIn this engaging conversation, Dorian Gutierrez and Riley Kirk explore the multifaceted world of cannabis, touching on topics such as neurodivergence, community building, personal growth, and the future of cannabis in sports. They discuss the importance of authentic representation in the cannabis industry, the power of networking, and the potential for cannabis to bridge gaps in health and fitness. The conversation highlights the vibrant energy of the cannabis community and the ongoing evolution of cannabis culture. Riley Kirk and Dorian Gutierrez explore the complexities of cannabis use, particularly focusing on dosing for new users, the importance of set and...2024-12-191h 38BIOACTIVESmuggling in the 80's: Tales and Tribulations with Ken BehrIn this engaging conversation, Ken Behr shares his remarkable journey from a dyslexic child who struggled in school to a successful writer and former drug smuggler. He discusses the challenges he faced growing up, the influence of his family, and the cultural shifts he experienced moving to Florida during the rise of drug culture in the 1970s. Ken recounts his early experiences with cannabis, the transition to smuggling, and some of the wild stories from his past, including a dramatic plane smuggling incident that highlights the risks and adventures of that lifestyle. In this segment, Ken Behr shares his...2024-12-131h 13
Crux Of The Matter with Riley Stansberry & Landen Conner16. The American Character Expressed Through Literature feat. Brian Wilson of Montana Classical CollegeLanden and Riley return after the election, switching gears to talk about the Renaissance of American Literature. This week, the boys were joined by Brian Wilson, the Founder of Montana Classical College, a new institution that is focused on promoting excellence for the human body & soul; especially by educating people on the thought & sayings of history’s greatest thinkers & writers. The three of them talk about how & why Brian started MCC, what the great thinkers can teach us about virtue and our own moral imaginations, the values expressed by the writers of the American Renaissance, the emergence of the Am...2024-12-0959 min
Reclaiming Your HueEp. 25 with Judy Praska | Franchise Owner, Fastest LabsDefying the Odds and Finding Harmony In this inspiring episode of Reclaiming Your Hue, host Kelly Kirk sits down with Judy Praska, mother, entrepreneur, and owner of three Fastest Labs franchises. Judy shares her journey from a career in education to becoming a successful business owner, all while navigating the peaks and valleys of motherhood, faith, and entrepreneurship.Themes and TakeawaysMotherhood and Faith as a Foundation•Judy shares how her journey into motherhood began with her son Riley, who has Down syndrome, followed by his younger br...2024-12-031h 05BIOACTIVELit and Legit: Breaking the Stigma Surrounding Women in Media and Cannabis UseHost Riley Kirk interviews Sarah Burke, the founder of Women in Media Network and her new producer! They explore the intersection of cannabis, science, media, and the evolving perception of cannabis in society, especially as it pertains to women. They question some of the advertising challenges that the cannabis industry and content creators within it face, while looking at accepted habits and attitudes towards alcohol. They talk about content creation in the cannabis industry and its inevitable difficulties with censorship. Dr. Kirk emphasizes the medicinal benefits of cannabis and the importance of community knowledge and research in t...2024-11-2955 min
First Smoke of The DayDr. Riley: The Science of SmokeAbility, The Entourage Effect, Ash Color & TerpenesTake out a pen and a pad because this episode of the pod with a real-life herb scientist will redefine your preexisting knowledge of the plant.Blackleaf is joined by viral content creator and natural product chemist with a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, Dr. Riley Kirk, to discuss a number of hard-hitting questions that only a scientist could accurately answer.The entire first half of this episode is truly a treasure trove of educational nuggets surrounding Dr. Riley and her team’s efforts to unravel the Science of Smokeability (S.O.S.), as...2024-11-251h 47
Women In MediaLit and Legit: Redefining the Cannabis Narrative with Dr. Riley KirkIn this episode of the Women in Media podcast, host Sarah Burke interviews Dr. Riley Kirk, a cannabis research scientist and educator who also hosts the Bioactive Podcast on the Women in Media Network! They explore the intersection of cannabis, science, media, and the evolving perception of cannabis in society, especially as it pertains to women. They question some of the advertising challenges that the cannabis industry and content creators within it face, while looking at accepted habits and attitudes towards alcohol. They talk about content creation in the cannabis industry and its inevitable difficulties with censorship. Dr. Kirk...2024-11-2055 minBIOACTIVEOur first New York Cannabis Event in Syracuse, NY #NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe ShieldsDr. Miyabe Shields and Dr. Riley Kirk: Leaders in Cannabis and Natural Products ResearchDr. Miyabe Shields and Dr. Riley Kirk, co-founders of the nonprofit organization The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), are at the forefront of research and education in cannabis science and natural products. Through their work, NAP conducts national and international studies exploring diverse topics such as cannabis consumption patterns, consumer trends, emerging products, vape and lab testing, and data-driven insights into the natural products industry.Tune in as they share cutting-edge science, discuss critical challenges in the industry like solvent contamination...2024-11-151h 13BIOACTIVEThe Science and Magic of Sungrown Herb🌱 The Science and Magic of Sungrown Cannabis | Bioactive Podcast 🌱Join Dr. Riley Kirk and an inspiring panel of experts — Tina Gordon, Lindsay MaHarry, Colleen King, and Christina Wong — as they dive deep into the unique qualities of sungrown cannabis! Recorded after their 2024 Emerald Cup panel discussion, this episode explores the unparalleled benefits of cultivating cannabis in natural sunlight and the artistry behind it.🌿 In This Episode:
What Makes Sungrown Cannabis Unique: Discover the science and the magic that sunlight brings to cannabis cultivation and the experiences it creates.
Quantifying the Sungrown Difference: Learn about the measurabl...2024-11-011h 54
Puff Puff Press PodcastDallas Decrim, Dr. Riley Kirk on Stoner Science + THC-Break TipsFrom country stars to stoner scientists, we are everywhere! This week:Dallas, TX could decriminalize in November and we are here for it! Let the Dallas Freedom Act pass! Brit Smith details what a 'yes' vote for Prop R would do in her American home city.Country star and Texas legend Willie Nelson is stumping for Kamala Harris in support of legalization, and Sara Payan gets into how impactful his support could be.From the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy, stoner scientist Dr. Riley Kirk details what her non-profit's study into the cannabis community has found...2024-10-2453 minBIOACTIVEThe Expanded Entourage Effect: Curating your experience with your consumption methodHow Consumption Methods Affect Cannabis Chemistry | Dr. Riley Kirk | Bioactive PodcastIn this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk breaks down how cannabis consumption methods—whether smoking, vaping, or edibles—can impact the chemistry and effects you experience.We often focus on strain-specific effects to curate our cannabis experience, but your method of consumption also plays a key role. Different methods produce unique combinations of compounds, changing how you experience the Entourage Effect. This theory, introduced by Dr. Ethan Russo, explains how the many compounds in cannabis work...2024-10-1838 min
Cannabis ManCannabis Culture & Science with Dr. Riley Kirk: Gratitude, Fall Vibes and CBD DiscoveriesText Cannabis Man! In this episode of the Cannabis Man Podcast, Don embraces the beauty of the Fall season, reflecting on the crisp air, spooky vibes, football on TV, and crockpot soups. He discusses the importance of exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature, emphasizing how cannabis enhances mindfulness and gratitude. Don shares his experience at the Benzinga Conference afterparty/Chi High Afters event, highlighting the perfect rooftop setting, great people, and cannabis-friendly vibes. He also announces the launch of the podcast's companion newsletter, The Weekly Chronic, giving readers...2024-10-111h 26