Green Bee Life

Breaking the Grass Ceiling: Women of Weed, Then and Now (Part 2)

Episode 17
Channel Just say know with Maria
Host Maria Calabrese
Date April 11, 2025

About This Episode

In Part 2 of our series on Women in Cannabis, we shift the focus from personal experience to systemic change. It’s a deep dive into the structural issues shaping the cannabis industry—from gender and racial equity in science and research to the future of policy and representation.

Featuring continued insights from the UCLA CannaClub panel, this episode highlights the urgent need for women—especially women of color—to take on leadership roles in cannabis science, product development, and public policy. We also share real-world examples of what happens when women are left out of medical and wellness research—and the innovative solutions being built when they are included.

Our Product Spotlight features Doreen Sullivan, founder of My Bud Vase, whose elegant designs are changing the image of cannabis accessories. And in our Consumer Tips & Insights segment, we hear from the ladies of Mary Jane University about how to find a cannabis doctor and ask the right questions.

We close the show with a powerful archival moment from California’s first Cannabis Czar, Lori Ajax, as she reflects on cannabis as a “magical plant” at the first-ever cannabis film festival.

What You’ll Learn:

  • How gender and racial equity policies are shaping cannabis

  • The top challenges women still face in the industry—and how to overcome them

  • Why diversity in cannabis science and product development matters

  • What to ask when choosing a cannabis doctor

  • The lasting impact of inclusive leadership—from policy to product innovation

Host & Guests

Maria Calabrese headshot
Maria Calabrese Founder & CEO Host
National Cannabis Industry Association Sustaining Member logo
Green Bee Life
*FDA Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.

Copyright © 2025 Green Bee Life | Green Bee LLC, is a subsidiary of Green Life Media, Inc., a full service creative agency and production company.

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