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Growing Forward: Cannabis and New Mexico

Growing Forward: Cannabis and New Mexico

By NMPBS & NM Political Report

A podcast exploring the cannabis industry in New Mexico. Hosted by Andy Lyman, reporter at New Mexico Political Report, and Megan Kamerick, correspondent at New Mexico PBS, on-air host at KUNM radio and former business reporter.
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What to do With Cannabis Consumption Areas? | 10.26.21

Growing Forward: Cannabis and New Mexico Oct 26, 2021

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30:55
Let's Do It Live! (In Las Cruces) | 7.26.22

Let's Do It Live! (In Las Cruces) | 7.26.22

This week marks the end of our fourth season of Growing Forward! Time has definitely flown by over the course of the last two-plus years, and we appreciate all the support and listenership during our initial seasons. We'll be back again later this Fall as we kick off Season Five. 

In our final episode of this season, though, we took our show on the Road to the Amador Barr and Grill in Las Cruces. Hosts Andy Lyman (New Mexico Political Report) and Megan Kamerick (KUNM) were joined by a special panel to discuss the rollout of the cannabis industry in not only Las Cruces, but also all of Southern New Mexico. You might be interested to learn how different the approach has been than some other prominent communities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe. 

We can't wait to join you again for a new season, but for the time being a reminder you can listen back to any of our past episodes and seasons, right here where you streamed this episode. Those clicks, likes and listens really help us out a great deal. And, if you like what we're doing, you can also help us out financially on the New Mexico Political Report website, by hitting the "donate now" button. Thanks, and we will talk to you again very soon!

Guests:

Senator Carrie Hamblen (D-District 38)

Las Cruces City Councilor Johana Bencomo

Ben Lewinger, Executive Director, New Mexico Cannabis Chamber of Commerce

Episode Music:

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Low Light Switch"

Blue Dot Sessions - "The Dollar Token"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Two in the Back"

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Jul 26, 202240:48
Don't Call it a Compact: Part 2 | 7.12.22

Don't Call it a Compact: Part 2 | 7.12.22

In our most recent episode, we explored the challenges Native American Tribes and Pueblos face when trying to get into the cannabis industry in New Mexico. Because the plant is still federally illegal, Sovereign Nations are finding creative ways to get in on the business, including the two intergovernmental agreements Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham recently signed with the Pojoaque and Picuris Pueblos. These agreements are different than the compacts that Tribal Governments often engage in for other businesses like casinos. The main difference is that the intergovernmental agreements do not include any revenue sharing with the state. 

Last episode we talked about why Pojoaque Pueblo wanted to get into the business. This time, we turn to Picuris Pueblo, which has already had a series of headaches trying to navigate these tricky waters. Hosts Andy Lyman and Megan Kamerick learn about that history, and the Pueblo's plans now that it is armed with the intergovernmental agreement. 

As usual, Andy also has more reporting on this and other topics over at NM Political Report. Here are just a couple we picked out for you, and remember that while you are there you can always hit the "donate now" button to help support our efforts here on Growing Forward.

Picuris Pueblo pot production uprooted

Bill would protect cannabis patients who live on federal trust land

Amended cannabis on Tribal Lands bill heads to the House

Episode Music:

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Low Light Switch"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Sylvestor"

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Jul 12, 202228:15
Don't Call it a Compact: Part 1 | 6.29.22

Don't Call it a Compact: Part 1 | 6.29.22

Compacts are a term you may have heard connected to Tribal gaming operations like casinos. They are agreements that Sovereign Nations make with a State government, and often include revenue sharing between the two entities. And now, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham recently announced intergovernmental agreements with two Pueblos related to the state's newest industry: cannabis. But, as this episode's title indicates, these agreements are not in fact compacts, but something different. 

Hosts Andy Lyman and Megan Kamerick find out more about those differences, and why these two Tribal Governments are dipping their toes in this new industry, despite cannabis's continued status as being federally illegal. This week, they talk to Pojoaque Pueblo, but be sure to tune in for our next episode, when Picuris Pueblo takes center stage, to discuss the long and winding road that lead them to this current agreement. 

As usual, Andy also has more reporting on this and other topics over at NM Political Report. Here are just a couple we picked out for you, and remember that while you are there you can always hit the "donate now" button to help support our efforts here on Growing Forward.

Bill would protect cannabis patients who live on federal trust land

Amended cannabis on Tribal Lands bill heads to the House

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions ' "Building the Sled"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Pastel de Nata"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Jun 29, 202225:19
A Good Old Fashioned Crossover Episode | 6.14.22

A Good Old Fashioned Crossover Episode | 6.14.22

This week's episode hearkens back to a simpler time in Network Television: the good old fashioned crossover episode. Hosts Andy Lyman and Megan Kamerick are joined by the creative team behind the podcast NM CannaCast to talk about the state of the cannabis industry in New Mexico just a little over one year after the passing of the Cannabis Regulation Act. The group talks about taxes, equity, finances and why there is still so much confusion out there about this industry. 

Also in the episode, Host Andy Lyman mentions his recent article for New Mexico Political Report, dealing with the lack of education standards to date, something that was intended in the original Cannabis Regulation Act. Read the article here, and remember that while you are there you can always hit the "donate now" button to help support our efforts here on Growing Forward. 

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions ' "Building the Sled"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Pastel de Nata"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Jun 14, 202234:35
Risks and Rewards of Getting Into Business With Cannabis | 5.31.22

Risks and Rewards of Getting Into Business With Cannabis | 5.31.22

The focus of this podcast has always been to take a look at recreational use cannabis as a legitimate business and industry. And the financial challenges are many. In our most recent episode (Season 4, Episode 5) we looked at the issues news businesses face securing loans and basic banking services when dealing with a product that is still considered federally illegal. We got a lot of response to that episode, and we want to share what we learned with you in this follow up. And for the most part, the news appears to be good for those trying to break into the industry in New Mexico. Hosts Andy Lyman and Megan Kamerick talk with Shannon Cox, Cannabis Program Executive with Southwest Capital Bank, about their ever-expanding approach to lending to cannabis businesses. We also learn more about risk management and insurance coverage for these businesses with Kenny Byrd, a risk Management Specialist. We even discuss workers compensation issues within this industry and what best practices seem to be when it comes to workplace accidents.  

Also, we end with Andy updating us all on some of his most recent cannabis reporting, which you can find at the following links. We love your feedback and it really does inform us on which direction to pursue next. So, do us a favor and let us know what we missed, or what you'd like to hear more about in an upcoming episode of "Growing Forward."

NM collects $2.4 million in cannabis taxes for first month of sales

Some NM cannabis producers may face higher than expected tax bill

NM expected to pay an estimated $15 million in tax refunds to medical cannabis companies

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Sunsearcher - "Latin Rhythm"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Pastel de Nata"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

May 31, 202231:56
It's Not Easy Being Green | 5.17.22
May 17, 202230:06
Entrepreneurship & Social Equity | 5.3.22
May 03, 202237:39
Cannabis Testing Takes Center Stage | 4.18.22

Cannabis Testing Takes Center Stage | 4.18.22

Now that legal recreational-use cannabis sales are up and running in New Mexico, the spotlight once again turns to the testing process. Co-host Andy Lyman has done a lot of great reporting on a testing dispute that has already made it into the New Mexico courts system. He and Megan Kamerick break down the debate, and summarize the court proceedings to date. 

Then, the pair check back in with one of the only testing labs in New Mexico to find out if the owner is having any difficulties keeping up with demand, as well as the prospect of new testing labs coming online in the coming months. 

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Roundpine"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Sylvestor"

Broke for Free - "Warm Up Suit"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Apr 19, 202224:52
The Curtain Comes Up on Legalized Recreational-Use Cannabis Sales in New Mexico | 4.5.22

The Curtain Comes Up on Legalized Recreational-Use Cannabis Sales in New Mexico | 4.5.22

The day many had been waiting for finally arrived on Friday, April 1st, 2022. That was the day legal recreational-use cannabis sales started in New Mexico, after the state legislature passed the Cannabis Regulation Act in 2021. According to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's office, business was indeed booming over the inaugural weekend. The state reported 5.2 million dollars in sales through the first weekend. Three and a half million of that was recreational-use with another $1.7 million in medical cannabis sales.  

“New Mexico was ready for this historic opportunity to end prohibition,” said Cannabis Control Division Director Kristen Thomson. “Whether it’s people moving from the illicit market to the safe, regulated legal market or brand-new customers excited to try high-quality New Mexico products for the first time, New Mexicans supported cannabis businesses in record numbers this weekend.”

“In every state that launched adult-use sales before New Mexico, some retailers sold out on opening day,” Thomson said. “In New Mexico, that was simply not the case. Customers and patients across the state were all able to get the products or medicine they wanted and needed. Through careful regulatory planning hand-in-hand with industry, New Mexico cannabis producers have done something that’s never been done before. This weekend’s successful launch is something we can all be proud of.”

In this episode, hosts Andy Lyman (New Mexico Political Report) and Megan Kamerick (KUNM) visited several dispensaries on opening day to find out why this landmark was so important to them and what they think the long-term potential is for the industry.  

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Building the Sled"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Sylvestor"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Pastel de Nata"

Sunsearcher - "Latin Rhythms"

Kevin MacLeod - "Backed Vibes"


Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Apr 04, 202246:01
Cannabis Clock Ticks Down, Plus the Science of a Plant | 3.22.22

Cannabis Clock Ticks Down, Plus the Science of a Plant | 3.22.22

The clock is ticking to the start of legal recreational-use cannabis sales in New Mexico. April 1st at noon is the first time people can buy cannabis without having a medical card. So, how ready is the state for this new industry? We check in with Kristen Thomson, Director of the New Mexico Cannabis Control Division, to find out. Specifically, the Growing Forward team wants to know if there is concern about a shortage of supply, given the aggressive timeline for this rollout. In addition, lawmakers failed to make an adjustment to the Cannabis Regulation Act during the recent regular legislative session.

We also find out the role social media like TikTok and Instagram is having in educating people about the science of cannabis. Riley Kirk is very active on both platforms and also co-hosts a podcast with Dr. Miyabe Shields called Smoke 'n Science. Kirk helps explain some of interesting new research about the possibility that cannabis could ward off COVID-19. But, she also explains the differences between smoking cannabis, and using other types of the plant like vapes, edibles and tinctures. 

More information:

Riley Kirk on TikTok

Riley Kirk on Instagram

Cannabichem on Youtube

Smoke 'n Science Podcast

Smokenol Website

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Chad Crouch - "Wilsons Snipe"

Blue Dot Sessions - "low Light Switch"

Kevin MacLeod - "Backed Vibes"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Mar 22, 202244:55
New Cannabis Control Division Director, Water Rights and a Wrap on Season 3 | 12.21.21

New Cannabis Control Division Director, Water Rights and a Wrap on Season 3 | 12.21.21

This week, we wrap up Season 3 of the podcast with a grab bag of topics. For starters, we introduce you to the state's first ever Director of the Cannabis Control Division. Kristen Thomson has spent years in the industry, mostly in Colorado, as a lobbyist. Hosts Andy Lyman and Megan Kamerick find out why she wanted to take on this job, and how she will avoid any potential conflicts of interest from her previous work.

In addition, we get to the bottom of some of the lingering questions about water and cannabis, with John Romero of the Water Resource Allocation Program.  They also discuss what we know about our water outlook and how a new cannabis industry might affect our ongoing drought. 

Andy and Megan also break down some of the most recent headlines on cannabis, including Bernalillo County's decision to ban indoor consumption areas once the recreational-use market is up and running. Also in the news is a new state program to offer microbusiness loans for people looking to break into the industry. Read more on that story in Andy's reporting for New Mexico Political Report

We'll be back in 2022 with an all new season of "Growing Forward." Until then, have a great holiday season and stay safe, and stay healthy!


Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Neon Drip"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Lupi"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Gusty Hollow"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Dec 21, 202141:59
Where are we with the Cannabis Industry in New Mexico? Let's Talk NM Special | 12.7.21

Where are we with the Cannabis Industry in New Mexico? Let's Talk NM Special | 12.7.21

This time on Growing Forward, we get an update on the rolling out of the cannabis industry in New Mexico, and hear what the public thinks about the process to date. This special episode comes from our friends at KUNM radio, and a recent Let's Talk New Mexico episode. The show was hosted by our co-host Megan Kamerick and our other co-host Andy Lyman was a guest on the show as well. Our next episode will be the final one for Season 3, so be sure to tune as we wrap up another season of coverage and close up some loose ends!  Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Two Dollar Token"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Highride"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Greylock"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Dec 07, 202153:59
What's the Deal with Automatic Expungements? | 11.22.21

What's the Deal with Automatic Expungements? | 11.22.21

There was big news this week on the cannabis front in New Mexico. As our co-host, Andy Lyman first reported, the state has now issued its first cultivation license. This is no doubt a big step for the recreational market in New Mexico, but it still leaves countless other applications in limbo with time running out to get plants in the ground in time for the first day of legal sales on April 1, 2022. 

A big part of the push to create a legal cannabis industry in New Mexico was the idea of automatic expungements for those with past cannabis-related convictions or arrests. The idea is simple, to try and undo some of the wrongs inflicted on especially people of color during the longstanding war on drugs. But, what does "automatic" really mean? And how is the process going so far? 

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Two Dollar Token"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Greylock"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Roundpine"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.


Nov 23, 202135:01
Time Crunch Looms, Carbon Footprint and Mysterious Medical License Drama | 11.9.21

Time Crunch Looms, Carbon Footprint and Mysterious Medical License Drama | 11.9.21

The clock is ticking down for people hoping to break into the state's forthcoming recreational cannabis market. Would-be producers are still weaving their way through the licensing process, and that path has been anything but smooth so far. This week, we talk to three different business owners, who all share similar frustrations about navigating the licensing process with the Regulation and Licensing Department and various municipal governments. Once those businesses have their licenses, those business owners can begin the process of growing and cultivating. But, unless those pieces are all in place soon, the chances they can have product ready for the market by next April 1st, when the recreational market kicks off, is very much in doubt. Read more about their concerns about the state's aggressive timeline, in a recent report from co-host Andy Lyman at NM Political Report. 

Water has been another constant concern and theme of this new industry, as it is with all agricultural businesses in New Mexico. But, what about the other environmental impacts of growing cannabis? Researchers at Colorado State University join Andy and Megan to discuss their research about the carbon footprint of this new crop, especially in terms of indoor grows.

Lastly, Megan talks with Andy about his latest report for NM Political Report, just published this morning. It examines the strange case of a solitary medical cannabis license which was granted just a day before the cannabis program shifted from the New Mexico Department of Health to the Regulation and Licensing Department. There are plenty of questions about the process used, and the business owner who got that single license, but there is no doubt, given the backlog in processing new licenses for the recreational market, that this gives Vance Dugger a clear advantage headed into 2022. 

Guests:

Matt Munoz, Carver Family Farms

Erica Rowland, Farm Flourish

Alyssa Pearson, Dr. Green Organics

Hailey Summers, Ph.D. Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering

Jason Quinn, Director, Sustainability Research Laboratory

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Two Dollar Token"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Low Light Switch"


Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Nov 09, 202141:44
What to do With Cannabis Consumption Areas? | 10.26.21

What to do With Cannabis Consumption Areas? | 10.26.21

The idea of consumption areas have been a potential under New Mexico's medical cannabis program for a while, but the state has yet to see a single designated consumption site set up. Part of that has to do with the COVID-19 pandemic, but could it also have something to do with confusion over exactly what constitutes a consumption area, and what the license requirements will be? These are important questions, especially as these unique locations take on a higher profile under the state's new recreational cannabis market. This week on the podcast, we learn more about the  history of consumption areas, and the questions left to be answered as the state sets up rules and gets ready to accept applications for consumption area licenses.

In this episode, you will also hear mentioned that the Cannabis Control Division is holding this Thursday, October 28th. Regulation and Licensing, which operates the Cannabis Control Division, will be meeting to discuss licensing requirements for manufacturer, retail and courier licensing. The group will also take public input. Also, if anyone is interested, the Cannabis Control Division is also taking new applications for the Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Committee. If you are interested, be sure to act quick, though. The deadline to apply is tomorrow, October 27th. 


Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Greylock"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Neon Drip"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Building the Sled"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Oct 26, 202130:55
From The Ground Up: Cannabis Business Opportunities | 10.12.21
Oct 12, 202142:46
Get Your Grow On! | 9.28.21

Get Your Grow On! | 9.28.21

Did you know that in some circles, we're closing in on the season known as 'Croptober'? Seems like the perfect time to really dive into the ins and outs of growing cannabis. This week, we kick things off with advice and insights from a man who knows a thing or two about growing crops. Dave Dewitt is a food historian, novelist and the self-proclaimed "Pope of Peppers." Many in New Mexico also remember him as the man behind the Fiery Foods Show. He joins New Mexico in Focus Correspondent Gwyneth Doland about why part of his green thumb also extends to growing medical cannabis, something he's been doing for quite a while now. 

The growing will have to wait a while longer for some folks aiming to get a production license under the new Cannabis Control Act. We caught up with one business that is still trying to get their license from the Cannabis Control Division, but as you will hear, it's anything but simple. Those would-be producers have to secure that license before they can begin growing, which means the clock is ticking if they're going to have merchandise available when the legal market kicks off on April 1st, 2022. 

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Sylvester"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Roundpine"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Gusty Hollow"

Amaksi - "Soft Mirror of Water"


Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Sep 28, 202131:41
Meet the Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Committee | 9.14.21

Meet the Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Committee | 9.14.21

Part of the Cannabis Control Act, passed by the New Mexico Legislature during a 2021 Special Session, included the creation of a Regulatory Advisory Committee. The group is a cross section of people with expertise or interest in this new industry, but none of the members can have direct financial interests in that industry. The 17-person panel has now been named, and already conducted its first meeting. The group will be meeting again later this month, as they offer insight and suggestions for the Regulation and Licensing Department, which is tasked with overseeing the industry. This week, we meet three members of the Committee and learn more about their specific roles and responsibility, including the equity goals set out in the Cannabis Control Act. 

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Building the Sled"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Sep 14, 202127:43
Education & Training | 8.28.21

Education & Training | 8.28.21

The New Mexico Cannabis Control Division has officially started accepting cannabis cultivation license applications, after finalizing the industry rules for that segment of the industry. Already more than 400 applications have been filed. Learn more about that in co-host Andy Lyman's latest report for New Mexico Political Report. Now, the attention turns to some of the other aspects of creating a cannabis industry, including the education and training requirements. In this episode, we sit down with Shannon Jaramillo of SeedCrest LLC. Shannon has joined us before, as she continues to work of creating curriculums for colleges and universities across New Mexico. Shannon discusses what she rules she would like to see for training in the cannabis realm, as well as what kind of students she is attracting into her classrooms. 

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Building the Sled"


Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.


Aug 31, 202134:17
Testing Lab Field Trip | 8.17.21
Aug 17, 202128:33
Cannabis Industry Starts to Come Together | Special Facebook Live with Regulation and Licensing Superintendent Linda Trujillo

Cannabis Industry Starts to Come Together | Special Facebook Live with Regulation and Licensing Superintendent Linda Trujillo

The wheels are moving fast in the process of setting up a legal cannabis industry in New Mexico. Recently, the Department of Regulation and Licensing announced the membership of the Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Committee, which will weigh in on the most up to date rules for producers, which are nearing finalization. Those rules will pave the way for the processing of license applications for cannabis producers, cannabis producer microbusinesses and properly licensed medical cannabis producers. Co-hosts Andy Lyman of the New Mexico Political Report and Megan Kamerick, News Director at KUNM, held a special Facebook live on August 9th to get an update on the process with Regulation and Licensing Superintendent Linda Trujillo. Trujillo also answered questions from viewers. For those who still have questions, you can still submit them to the Cannabis Control Division at the following email:

RLD.CannabisControl@state.nm.us

You can also leave a voicemail at (505) 476-4995.

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Building the Sled"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.


Aug 10, 202138:02
New Mexico's Green Rush Part 2 | 8.3.21
Aug 03, 202129:16
New Mexico's Green Rush Part 1 | 7.27.01
Jul 27, 202128:52
Talking Taxes with Richard Anklam | 5.24.21

Talking Taxes with Richard Anklam | 5.24.21

We join you for a special update, with information about court action involving taxes and medical cannabis sales. Our co-host Andy Lyman has the very latest on New Mexico Political Report, but basically a decision is now in the hands of the State Supreme Court on the issue of whether taxes on medical cannabis sales should have been deductible prior to this year.

Today, all eyes will be on the Cannabis Control Division website, as the first proposed rules are released for cannabis producers. There's still a lot of other work going on as well, but folks will now have the first chance to see what the state is thinking in terms of setting up this industry in New Mexico. We'll have much more on these proposed rules in the very near future.

Also in this episode, we welcome Richard Anklam of the Tax Research Institute, to talk more about the tax issues circling around a legalized market.  

May 24, 202127:11
Facebook Live Ask Me Anything: Special Episode | 4.28.21
Apr 28, 202149:35
What's Next? | 4.22.21
Apr 23, 202126:37
Cannabis Comes Full Circle for Former Gov. Gary Johnson | 4.05.21
Apr 05, 202120:57
Put a Bow on It | 4.02.21
Apr 02, 202145:33
Special Session Day 2 Recap | 3.31.21
Apr 01, 202149:32
Special Session Day 1 Recap | 3.30.21

Special Session Day 1 Recap | 3.30.21

Day one of the 2021 Special Legislative Session saw several proposals introduced dealing with the legalization of adult use cannabis in New Mexico. There are competing bills in the House and Senate, known as the Cannabis Regulation Act (in the House it is House Bill 2, and in the Senate, Senate Bill 3). Both are being treated very differently, with HB2 getting two committee assignments and SB 3 being send straight to the Senate Floor. There is also a separate bill, Senate Bill 2, which deals with expungement of some cannabis-related crimes, if SB 3 or HB 2 were to pass. And, there are also pieces of the cannabis legalization in the so-called Feed Bill, House Bill 1. Additional appropriations were included to pay for aspects of running the legal cannabis market, again should HB 2 or SB 3 pass. That led to a lot of debate about whether or not it was right to be debating these things before a legal market is even approved. Our "Growing Forward" team breaks it all down for you, as it stands right now. We'll be back again tomorrow night with another recap of day 2. And be sure to check in on co-host Andy Lyman's latest reporting over at New Mexico Political Report

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.

Mar 31, 202138:17
Up in Smoke | 3.24.21
Mar 24, 202125:41
The Race to the Finish Line | 3.11.21
Mar 11, 202125:15
Legalization & The Legislature | 2.26.21
Feb 26, 202134:19
Let's Talk Cannabis in New Mexico: Special Episode
Feb 12, 202158:32
Cannabis Education Efforts | 2.3.21

Cannabis Education Efforts | 2.3.21

If lawmakers approve the legalization of recreational cannabis in this year's legislative session, the issue of education and training for industry workers and medical professionals will be a top priority. This week on "Growing Forward" we dive back into this important issue. Hosts Andy Lyman (New Mexico Political Report) and Megan Kamerick (NMPBS & KUNM) talk with Shannon Jaramillo, cannabis educator and founder of Seed Crest. Jaramillo has worked with Northern New Mexico College to set up an accredited cannabis education program. Also joining them is Matthew Fogel, a registered nurse and author of "The Green Elephant: The Healthcare Provider's Essential Guide to Understanding and Addressing Medical Cannabis and CBD." 

Note: This week, a pair of bills related to the legalization of recreational cannabis were officially filed in the New Mexico Legislature. You can read much more about the bills and what they would do, in Andy's latest article for the NM Political Report. 

Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS.


Feb 03, 202134:37
New Mexico Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth on 2021 Legislative Session & Cannabis Legalization | 1.24.21
Jan 24, 202123:32
Cannabis Risks and Concerns | Special Episode
Dec 14, 202033:44
Holiday Leftovers | 12.1.20
Dec 14, 202028:44
Field Trip | 11.24.20
Nov 24, 202029:00
Cannabis and Indigenous Communities | 11.17.20

Cannabis and Indigenous Communities | 11.17.20

A missing piece of most cannabis conversations in New Mexico, whether it has to do with medical or the potential for legalization of recreational- use, is how Indigenous Communities are impacted. It's a complicated scenario, especially when you consider the 23 Tribes in our state are all sovereign nations. This week on "Growing Forward" we dive into those sovereignty issues, and how Indigenous communities perceive the future of cannabis in their communities. 

Additional Reading - We talk a lot in this episode about a hemp-growing operation in Northwest New Mexico. As the episode points our, there are a lot of concerns about how that operation is being handled and operated. A lot has happened in this story since we taped out interview with Navajo Times Reporter Arlyssa Becenti, but here are some of her most recent updates and related reporting from other news outlets:

Coalition of Officers Raids Benally's Hemp Farms - Navajo Times

Redfeather-Benally Replaces Dineh Benally on Farm Board - Navajo Times

Police Agencies Still Investigating Hemp Farms on Navajo Nation - Farmington Daily Times

Uprooted: A Police Raid Near Shiprock Has All But Ended an Illicit Cannabis-Growing Operation - Searchlight New Mexico 


Episode Music:

Christian Bjoerklund - " Hallon"

Poddington Bear - "Good Times"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley 

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"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS, and is funded through a grant from The New Mexico Local News Fund.

Nov 17, 202026:09
Testing and Regulations | 11.10.20
Nov 10, 202020:28
Arizona Legalizes Recreational Cannabis | Special

Arizona Legalizes Recreational Cannabis | Special

This week, Arizona voters approved an initiative to legalize recreational cannabis in that state. Hosts Andy Lyman and Megan Kamerick talk to Arizona Republic reporter Andrew Oxford about what that initiative entailed and what impacts it may have on New Mexico's push to also legalize recreational cannabis in the upcoming 60-day session.  

Nov 06, 202035:47
Cannabis Education | 10.27.20
Oct 27, 202023:17
Pulling Back the Leaves | 10.20.20
Oct 20, 202022:01
Who's Running Things | 10.13.20
Oct 13, 202026:42
The Dynamics of Legalization | 10.6.20
Oct 06, 202028:08
An Abridged History of Medical Cannabis in New Mexico | 9.29.20

An Abridged History of Medical Cannabis in New Mexico | 9.29.20

The debate over medical cannabis use in New Mexico goes back to the 1970s. But it really cranked up in the 1990s, when former Governor Gary Johnson came out in support of legalization and decriminalization. It was a controversial stance at the time, but was coupled by the early stages of a push for legislation creating a medical cannabis program. That debate would last for nearly a decade, but the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act was signed into law in 2007. In this episode of "Growing Forward" we look back at that time and talk to lawmakers and advocates who worked tirelessly to create the nation's 13th medical cannabis program. 

Suggested Reading: 

Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act

Episode Music: 

Blue Dot Sessions - "Svela Tal"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Highride"

Blue Dot Sessions - "Neon Drip"

Chad Crouch - "American Coot"

Chad Crouch - "Western Tanager"

Chad Crouch - "Wilson's Snipe"

Podington Bear - "Good Times"

Christian Bjoerklund - "Hallon"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley


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"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS, and is funded through a grant from The New Mexico Local News Fund. 

                                                                                                                                                                         

Sep 29, 202028:14
Preview: How Did We Get Here | 9.22.20

Preview: How Did We Get Here | 9.22.20

"Growing Forward" is a podcast dedicated to covering the cannabis industry in New Mexico. Right now that only includes the medical program, but lawmakers are inching closer to legalizing recreational cannabis as well. Before we dive into all the intricacies and nuances of legalization, we wanted to take a step back and give you the history of how we got to this place and time. Hosts Andy Lyman of the NM Political Report and Megan Kamerick, Correspondent at NMPBS and on-air host at KUNM discuss the start of the medical program in New Mexico, and what happened with recent attempts to pass legalization legislation in the Roundhouse. Be sure to subscribe to "Growing Forward" today and listen in next week (September 29) as we officially premiere episode 1 of season 1. 


Music for this preview episode provided by:

Podington Bear: "Good Times"

Christian Bjoerklund: "Hallon"

Blue Dot Sessions: "Highride"

Kevin Macleod: "Backed Vibes"

Growing Forward Logo Created By:

Katherine Conley


*******

"Growing Forward" is a collaboration between New Mexico Political Report and New Mexico PBS, and is funded through a grant from The New Mexico Local News Fund. 

Sep 22, 202028:12
Growing Forward Season 1 Trailer

Growing Forward Season 1 Trailer

Growing Forward is a journalistic endeavor designed to cover the cannabis industry in New Mexico. Season 1 officially premieres on Tuesday, September 29th. The podcast is a collaboration between New Mexico PBS and New Mexico Political Report, with funding provided by the New Mexico Local News Fund.  

Sep 09, 202000:54