In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Parisa Mansouri-Rad—widely known as the Marijuana Mama—for a deeply personal conversation about cannabis, caregiving, advocacy, and leadership. Parisa shares how her journey into cannabis began as a mother searching for relief for her daughter, whose severe medical complications following spinal surgery led the family to medical cannabis after traditional pharmaceuticals failed. From there, the conversation explores how that experience turned into a public advocacy platform, the creation of Blunt Brunch as a space for women in cannabis to connect and support one another, and Parisa’s perspective on how the industry has evolved as legalization has expanded. She also reflects on the tension between medical and adult-use cannabis, the ongoing stigma around cannabis use—particularly for parents and patients—and what it will take to build a more compassionate, equitable, and patient-centered future for the industry.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev Media.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
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What is Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis?
Joint Session is your go-to source for the latest cannabis news shaping the New York market. Hosted by Herb Barbot, Esq., the first Director of Operations at the NYS Office of Cannabis Management, this podcast delivers expert insights, breaking developments, and in-depth conversations with the industry’s most influential voices.
From policymakers and legislators to business leaders, licensees, and advocates, Joint Session brings you exclusive interviews with those shaping the future of cannabis in New York and beyond. Plus, we keep you informed with key national and international cannabis updates. Whether you're an industry professional, an advocate, or just curious about the evolving landscape, Joint Session delivers factual, insightful, and digestible information to help you stay ahead of the curve. Tune in for high-level discussions, straight talk, and expert perspectives you won’t find anywhere else.