In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Lyla Hunt, Director of Public Health and Education at the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, to discuss the findings from OCM’s groundbreaking Listen and Learn initiative. Drawing on conversations with more than 450 New Yorkers—including over 300 young people—Lyla shares what the agency learned about cannabis awareness, misinformation, mental health, and the growing need for trusted, evidence-based education. The discussion explores the gap between cannabis normalization and public understanding, why parents remain the most trusted source of information for young people despite often feeling unprepared for those conversations, and how OCM is using community feedback to shape future education efforts. Lyla also offers an inside look at the role of public health in cannabis regulation and explains how New York is working to create more informed, open, and productive conversations about cannabis across generations.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev Media.
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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.