Chillinois Podcast

In this episode of The Cole Memo, attorney Ali returns to discuss a groundbreaking lawsuit against the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Representing a group of mostly minority and women-owned cannabis transporters, Ali outlines how her clients were granted licenses that were essentially worthless—while larger, established companies received the same licenses under entirely different and more favorable terms. The lawsuit alleges that this created a discriminatory impact and violated the Illinois Civil Rights Act. We also touch on broader issues within the cannabis industry, from transparency in state rulemaking to the politics of outdoor cultivation. With real data, including a 96% failure rate among independent transporters, and insight from the state's own disparity study, this episode exposes how lofty social equity promises can fall apart in practice. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/30/e223/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, we unpack two big stories shaking up the Illinois cannabis scene. First, we dive into the controversy surrounding a new dispensary planned for West Ridge, partially owned by ten former police officers. While some see it as a redemption arc, others question the ethics of former drug enforcers now profiting from the legal market. Then, Cole walks listeners through his original reporting on outdoor cannabis cultivation in Illinois. From satellite imagery to court filings, he outlines how certain cultivators were quietly permitted to grow outside under previous leadership—until new leadership tried to shut it down, triggering lawsuits from industry giants like Curaleaf. With stringent testing requirements in place, is it finally time Illinois allows more flexibility in how and where cannabis is grown? Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/28/e222/

Craig Katz joins the show to break down the policy tensions between Illinois' regulated marijuana market and its largely unregulated hemp industry. As a board member for multiple trade associations and the compliance manager at CBDratom, Katz gives listeners an insider view into the push for House Bill 1—a legislative effort that would add labeling, age-gating, and testing requirements for intoxicating hemp products, without placing them under the expensive and restrictive CRTA framework. We talk about why hemp has become a preferred path for small businesses and social equity entrepreneurs, how major cannabis companies are now entering the hemp space, and what reasonable regulation could look like. Plus, a frank discussion on taxation, the future of HB1, and the controversial compound known as “7OH.” Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/28/e221/

In this deeply personal episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined by longtime friend and inspiration Jean Lacy, founder of the Illinois Psychedelic Society. We talk about burnout, idealism, and how to keep moving forward in advocacy work without losing yourself in the process. Jean reflects on her powerful essay, “choosing both: rest and resistance, healing and hustle, purpose and peace,” and we explore the tension between living like liberation is possible now while pushing for change in systems built to wear us down. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, questioned your place in this work, or just needed permission to rest—this one's for you. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/23/e220/

In this episode, Cole sits down with Michigan drug policy advocate Julie Barron for an honest conversation about the state of psychedelic reform, community burnout, and the challenges of staying grounded when a movement starts to fracture. They discuss Ann Arbor's unique culture, the evolution of Hash Bash, and how grassroots momentum led to real drug policy wins across multiple cities. Julie opens up about the emotional toll of advocacy, the infighting that derailed local efforts, and a recent wave of social media censorship targeting psychedelic organizations. The conversation also explores the differences between decriminalization and legalization—and why those distinctions matter. We discuss access, integrity, and why the fight for cognitive liberty is far from over. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/23/e219/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole breaks down a whirlwind of news from the local to the federal level. He starts with a look at Texas, where Governor Abbott is calling a special session that could lead to new restrictions on hemp—but without banning it outright. Then, Cole dives into the newly signed HALT Act, clearing up confusion about fentanyl scheduling and questioning the long-term consequences of doubling down on prohibition. Back in Illinois, Cole highlights a detailed report on how intoxicating hemp remains unregulated despite multiple legislative attempts, with deep divisions even within the hemp industry. He explains how 50mg THC sodas can legally be sold outside dispensaries, discusses competing hemp bills, and revisits his interview with Rep. La Shawn Ford. To close, Cole spotlights where Illinois cannabis tax dollars are actually going—down to the dollar. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/17/e218/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole checks in live to unpack some of the biggest cannabis stories of the week—from federal immigration raids on licensed California cannabis farms, to a scathing internal report on UIC's faulty THC blood tests that may have tainted over 1,000 DUI cases. He also dives into a troubling new report revealing that nearly half of Illinois' cannabis licenses remain unused, despite the state's social equity promises. Cole also shares his experience speaking at a Cannabis Research Institute listening session, where he challenged Illinois officials to address the contradiction between legalization rhetoric and ongoing criminal penalties. Plus, shoutouts to community voices like Cannabis Critique, Elevated News Podcast, and more. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/15/e217/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole sits down with economist Beau Whitney of Whitney Economics to unpack the complex realities behind cannabis market structures. From price elasticity and licensing limits to the rising tension between hemp and marijuana regulation, Beau explains what the data really shows. They also tackle how market access, consolidation, and criminal enforcement intersect with public policy — and why some legalization efforts may be reinforcing old injustices. If you've ever wondered whether high cannabis prices are policy-driven, or why hemp has become such a lightning rod, this conversation is for you. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/03/e216/

In this live stream, we'll be discussing the failed attempt to ban federally-legal cannabis products in Texas. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/03/e215/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole talks about odor proof updates + Metrc's impact on Illinois Medical Cannabis Patients. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/07/03/e214/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole talks about odor proof updates + Metrc's impact on Illinois Medical Cannabis Patients. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/25/e213/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole sits down with Aubree Adams, director of Every Brain Matters, to hear her perspective on the harms of marijuana legalization. While Aubree and Cole don't see eye to eye on many drug policy issues, the conversation is respectful, candid, and wide-ranging—touching on personal experiences, cannabis-induced psychosis, youth access, and the challenges of regulating a growing industry. This isn't a debate, but rather an open exchange aimed at understanding where and why viewpoints diverge. Whether you agree or disagree, this episode is a reminder of the importance of engaging across lines of disagreement. Read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/24/e212/

Cole is joined by Jordan Davidson from Smart Approaches to Marijuana for a candid conversation on cannabis legalization, hemp regulation, and where they still disagree. Watch more at colememo.com/SAM. See the video version of this episode and full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/25/e211/

On this episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined by Jim Higdon — journalist, author, and co-founder of Cornbread Hemp. We talk about his Kentucky roots, how the Cornbread Mafia helped inspire the brand's name, and why Cornbread Hemp has become one of the leading voices for common-sense hemp regulation. Jim unpacks the messy realities of cannabis legalization, why the hemp market has regulators and industry giants rattled, and how federal inaction has fueled innovation — and confusion. We also discuss why limiting access and participation is a form of modern prohibition, and what's at stake in Texas and beyond. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/24/e210/

Livi McKay returns to talk about her latest project, which can be found at discoveryourcolor.co. Discover Your Color is a cannabis delivery service that helps you quickly find the right product using lab-tested data. By answering a few short questions, you're matched with one of four color-coded categories based on mood and effect—then you can have your selection delivered right to your door. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/12/e209/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I follow up on episode 207, share highlights from my time at Benzinga, preview upcoming live streams, and cover a few other updates. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/11/e208/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole breaks down a press release from MMJ BioPharma that's shaking up the cannabis world. The company accuses the DEA of obstruction, selective enforcement, and unconstitutional practices—and it has people speculating that federal rescheduling might finally be near. But will it actually help? Cole analyzes what's in the press release, highlights comments from AG Pam Bondi, and plays clips from MMJ's CEO via The Dales Report. Plus, what might DEA Administrator nominee Terrence Cole's past statements reveal about what's next? It's a timely, cautious conversation about what reform might actually look like. Watch video version or read full show notes below: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/04/e207/

Join Aaron, Dave and Cole as they join forces once again to bring you the latest news and discussing all that's been happening in the legislative session in Illinois and elsewhere. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/06/04/e206/

Austin from Texas Cannabis Collective joins me to break down the latest developments in Texas cannabis policy. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/31/e205/

In this Friday episode of The Cole Memo, Cole is joined by Peter Contos from the Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition to break down some exciting last-minute developments in Illinois cannabis policy. The two discuss the unexpected movement of Senate Bill 90, which includes long-sought provisions like allowing medical patients to shop at any dispensary, expanding craft grower canopy limits, removing “excluded offenses” from licensing restrictions, and introducing a new hardship exemption for struggling operators. They also touch on the possibility of drive-thru dispensary service and the chaotic nature of end-of-session lawmaking in Springfield. If you care about cannabis reform in Illinois, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/30/e204/

On this Memorial Day episode of The Cole Memo, Cole is joined once again by cultivation consultant and cannabis industry veteran Dusty Shroyer for a deep, nuanced conversation about the evolving hemp and cannabis landscape. From the science behind THC testing to the market distortions caused by prohibition-era policies, the two unpack the promise and pitfalls of hemp policy, explore why rescheduling may not fix medical cannabis, and discuss practical solutions to ensure clean, safe, and equitable access for consumers and small growers alike. This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to understand the future of cannabis—and the messy intersection of policy, science, and commerce shaping it. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/28/e203/

In this packed Friday edition of The Cole Memo, Cole goes live to cover the latest developments in Illinois cannabis policy—including behind-the-scenes updates on proposed changes to licensing fees, adult-use purchase limits, and a potential fix for the controversial "odorproof" vehicle law. He also shares insider intel on efforts to expand access for medical patients, rising struggles among social equity operators, and whether Illinois might revoke its 280E tax relief. Plus, Cole highlights a new ruling that mentions an Illinois regulator and gives a shoutout to other creators in the space. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/28/e202/

We've heard promises of equity and transparency, but has Illinois delivered? Chicago Sun-Times reporter Tom Schuba joins me to unpack how political connections, limited transparency, and data protections have shaped Illinois' cannabis rollout. We discuss his latest story for the Sun-Times, which details how insiders with clout have secured a foothold in the market—and how state laws continue to keep key ownership information out of public view. Read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/13/e201/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined once again by Chicago Tribune reporter and author Ray Long for a deep dive into Illinois' ongoing ethics crisis. We discuss his recent reporting on how, despite a wave of public corruption convictions—including former House Speaker Mike Madigan—lawmakers have made little effort to close glaring loopholes in state ethics laws. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/12/e200/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I break down the latest twists in Illinois' cannabis odorproof container bill—now the furthest it's ever advanced. We look at the House committee vote, unpack surprising testimony, and examine concerns over racial disparities, DUI enforcement, and so-called “trafficking loopholes.” I also share exclusive info from a source about a potential amendment that could undermine the entire bill's intent by allowing new stops and searches. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/10/e199/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, host Cole Preston welcomes Jason Brown, founder of Illinois News Joint, for a wide-ranging conversation covering five years of legal cannabis in Illinois, the rise of hemp, the evolution of product reviews, and his latest effort to give back: launching two scholarships for cannabis students at SIU and Oakton College. They also unpack the normalization of weed use, the state's troubled seed policies, and why transparency and education are key to moving the industry forward. From personal stories to statewide reform, this episode blends lived experience with sharp analysis—and even a few grow tips. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/09/e198/

In this episode, I'll be joined by a small business owner to talk about how and why they started a cannabis business in the state of Illinois. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/07/e197/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole explores the widening divide between state-marijuana programs and the federally legal hemp market—two systems selling identical products under very different rules. I'll be joined by a guest in the state-marijuana program and a guest that participates in the federally legal hemp market. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/06/e196/

In this live stream, I'll cover a recent press conference where Illinois cannabis business owners called for relief from steep fees and burdensome regulations. I'll also discuss Trump's pick to lead the DEA, who recently said that reviewing marijuana's federal status will be one of his first priorities, along with other updates. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/07/e195/

In this episode, I'll be talking about a few dispensaries that were attacked with molotov cocktails and other news. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/02/e194/

In this episode, I share some of the latest cannabis news that has caught my attention. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/02/e193/

Trigger warning: this episode contains detailed discussions of sexual violence, PTSD, and suicide. In this powerful and emotional episode of The Cole Memo, returning guest Torrin Richelle opens up about her experience with military sexual trauma (MST) during her service in the U.S. Army. She recounts the harassment, assault, and institutional failures she endured—and the long-lasting impact it's had on her life for nearly four decades. Torrin discusses how MST has affected her relationships, mental health, and career, and why she's speaking out now in hopes of helping others find their voice. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/05/02/e192/

In this special episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined by Aaron and Dave — the voices behind The Elevated News Podcast and the driving forces behind SupportDopePeople.com. We talk about how their show started during the pandemic and how they're using media to push cannabis culture forward in Illinois and beyond. We also reflect on breaking news around SB42, the future of homegrow and farmers markets, and why access — not just profit — should be at the heart of cannabis policy. Come for the laughs, stay for the policy breakdowns, and leave with a deeper appreciation for what it means to build community through this plant. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/29/e191/

In this quick update, I share important news about Senate Bill 42, which would remove Illinois' requirement that cannabis be transported in an odorproof container—helping to end police searches based solely on the smell of cannabis. I explain where the bill stands, how you can help by filing a witness slip before the April 29 deadline, and why this change matters for legal cannabis consumers. Learn more at ColeMemo.com/odorproof. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/28/e190/

On this special Bicycle Day episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined by Austin Zamhariri of the Texas Cannabis Collective for a deep dive into Texas' escalating cannabis policy battles. We discuss the looming threat of a full hemp ban, the failures of the state's restrictive medical program, and how Texas' hemp market has provided broader legal access to the cannabis plant than many realize. Austin shares insights from the front lines of the legislative fight, the economic stakes for farmers and consumers, and why smart regulation—not prohibition—is the real path forward. Plus, we touch on national trends, the future of cannabis access in Texas, and why the movement can't afford to lose ground. Watch the video version and read full show notes for this episode here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/28/e189/

Award-winning investigative journalist Ray Long joins Cole Preston for a deep dive into the political legacy of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan—arguably the most powerful figure in the state's modern political history. Read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/19/e188/

In this episode, I share updates on the upcoming changes to Illinois' medical cannabis portal—something I've been tracking since 2023. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/18/e187/

Step inside the world of smoke shops with this eye-opening episode as we talk with Justine about the surprising—and sometimes concerning—realities of selling legal highs. From kratom and tianeptine (aka “gas station heroin”) to meth pipes, fake pee, and THCP gummies that can leave you high for days, we explore what people are really buying, why they're buying it, and what this says about drug policy in America. Interview was recorded on February 15, 2025. Watch video version here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/17/e186/

This live episode of The Cole Memo takes you straight to Ann Arbor for a boots-on-the-ground look at Hash Bash 2025. Phil returns from Michigan to talk about the storied cannabis protest, the wild mix of licensed and underground vendors, and how Ann Arbor feels like another country when it comes to drug policy. We unpack its historical roots, modern-day impact, and the unique way it blends activism, celebration, and commerce—all under the watchful but lenient eye of local law enforcement. Plus, we dive into the ongoing clash between hemp and cannabis industries, recent legislative news from Illinois, and whether an event like Hash Bash could ever happen here. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/15/e185/

In this episode, I share some breaking news for Illinois cannabis consumers. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/11/e184/

In this live stream, I will dive into surprising findings from journalists on the safety of legal weed, explore what's ahead for hemp, and cover other key stories from the cannabis world. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/04/01/e183/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I'm joined by Livi McKay, CEO and founder of MyTEPI and the Discover Your Color platform, for a deep dive into cannabis, "hemp", and the evolving landscape of plant-based wellness. Livi shares her powerful personal journey—from overcoming severe health issues using cannabis to becoming a leader in quality management and consumer education within the industry. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/31/e182

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Ash, a former legal sex worker in Nevada, who shares her perspective on the harsh realities behind the glitzy illusion of brothel work. From starting on OnlyFans to navigating the complexities of legal brothels, Ash offers firsthand accounts of financial struggles, safety concerns, and the psychological toll the industry can take. She discusses the hidden costs, the manipulation behind the scenes, and why many workers, in her experience, find themselves trapped in a cycle of false promises and financial instability. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/27/e181/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole Preston sits down with (former) Illinois State Representative Dan Caulkins for a candid discussion about the challenges of serving in the Illinois General Assembly. Together, they unpack the state's pressing issues, including protectionist legislation, the effectiveness of bans, and the controversial Illinois Firearms Ban. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/25/e180/

In this episode, I travel to Joliet, Illinois, to sit down with Senator Rachel Ventura. We discuss her groundbreaking legislation that could end vehicle searches based solely on the smell of cannabis, a longstanding issue impacting cannabis consumers across Illinois. Senator Ventura shares the story behind the bill, the challenges with current laws, and how her advocacy intersects with criminal justice reform and environmental policy. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/21/e179/

In this stream, I'm breaking down a strange dispensary glitch with the customer who caught it. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/21/e178/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I talk about legal “booger sugar” that is for sale in smoke shops and I share some cannabis news stories that caught my eye. Watch video version or read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/08/e177/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, host Cole Preston discusses House Bill 3061, the On-Premise Cannabis Consumption Act, with advocates Nathan, Maddie, and Dipesh from the Illinois Cannabis Consumption Association. They break down how the bill would allow municipalities to permit cannabis lounges and events, creating safer spaces for consumers while addressing gaps in current laws. The guests clarify misconceptions, explain why legal consumption spaces matter, and urge listeners to take action by contacting their representatives. This episode cuts through the noise, making cannabis policy clear and actionable. Read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/07/e176/

Cole responds to criticism over his interview with Every Brain Matters' Aubrey Adams(episode available soon at ColeMemo.com/Patreon), defending open dialogue and the importance of engaging with opposing views. He tackles claims that hosting prohibitionists is harmful, arguing that avoiding an echo chamber only weakens the movement. The episode also covers local cannabis news, including a Peoria lawyer's dispensary plans, a hemp company entering the Illinois market, and surprising cannabis-related incidents in schools. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/05/e175/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, I visit the Honeycomb Hideout Retreat in Addison, Illinois, for a deep dive into this unique cannabis-friendly space. I sit down with Mark Kunicki, the founder, to discuss how the retreat fosters community, education, and access to high-quality cannabis products. From networking and game nights to medical card consultations and local vendor support, the retreat is more than just a lounge—it's a hub for the cannabis culture in Illinois. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/03/03/e174/

In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole sits down with Jeremy Gorner of the Chicago Tribune to discuss the fallout from former Speaker Michael Madigan's conviction and its implications for Illinois politics. They explore Governor Pritzker's brief, off-the-cuff reference to Madigan during his budget address, the GOP's renewed calls for ethics reform, and whether the state's political culture is truly moving on from Madigan's influence. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2025/02/25/e173/