The speed of cannabis mainstreaming is setting records.
Since the first state went legal in 2016, consumers have moved to legal marijuana. Now, with over 50% of the country having access to it, things are starting to change. And consumer use sets records on cannabis as all ages are starting to consume and consume more. States who have full legal cannabis are bringing in more revenue from marijuana than alcohol. All fueled by consumers.
The newest record is Michigan, a solid mid-western state. In the first year of it being available to the public, the state had $1 billion in sales. Now, the Great Lakes State sets record with $295+ million in monthly marijuana sales. And it isn’t what you think, while it is being used to relax, it is also being used for its medical benefits. Boomers, the generation who helped promote the War on Drugs, has turned to it for the medical benefits of managing inflammation, chronic pain, insomnia, and more. And their grandchildren in Gen z are using it to combat anxiety. There generation has the highest amount of any other generation.
Photo by Hans via Pixabay
The other record is cannabis is taking a bit out of beer. Beer sales are down, especially earlier in the week as people are turning to vaping and gummies for a quick, low calorie and dose to relax after a busy start to the week. Year over year growth isstrong. In 2022, sales were $30 million and in 2024, it is on track to be $38 million. While beer sales still far outpace cannabis at $117 billion, sales dropped again in 2023 by 5.1%. Another reason big liquor companies are wading into the cannabis market.
But the industry is still struggling and the Biden/Harris administration has failed to follow through on their 2020 promise to help the industry. Biden is one of the most seasoned policymakers in DC with 50 years of service, so it seems the failure of the DEA to make a move before the election could be planned. The DEA rescheduling move premiered at time to provide zero relief for the industry in 2024 as the DEA is not making an announcement until December. Being post December, it could provide cover to the current administration to make make a move. Or if the GOP wins the presidency, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-KY) has made it clear he will move to reduce the industr
Finding a good partner can be a challenge…here are some tips to help with online dating.
Dating can be tough, and not everyone is an expert. While Gen Z is drifting away from apps, most of the rest of the population is still strong. In fact, 349 million people worldwide using dating apps. The vast majority of matchmaking is done on mobile devices. Over 50% of individuals who met someone on a dating app said it led to a romantic, exclusive relationship.
We interviewed the founders of Konvo Dating and discovered the number one complaint from men is frustration over not getting responses to their messages to women. It’s hard to get noticed, especially when most men swipe indiscriminately at women they find attractive. This strategy partly explains why women are inundated with matches, and a man’s message is easily missed. Here are their tips for guys to get a dating app response. Here are tips for for guys to get a dating app response.
A generic “Hey” or “What’s up?” will likely go unnoticed in a sea of similar messages. Women on dating apps receive many such messages, and the key to catching her attention is personalizing your approach. Take the time to read through her profile and find something unique to mention. Maybe she’s passionate about a particular hobby or traveled somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit. Referencing something specific shows that you’ve paid attention and that your message isn’t just a copy-paste.
Why It Works: Personalizing your message makes her feel seen and appreciated for more than just her appearance. It tells her you’re genuinely interested in who she is, not just looking for a casual match.
Example: “I noticed you love hiking—have you been to [local trail]? I’ve been looking for new places to explore!”
Photo by Westend61/Getty Images
Keep It Light and Playful
When starting a conversation, being lighthearted can help ease any initial awkwardness. Humor is an excellent tool for breaking the ice and creating a relaxed atmosphere. A playful comment or a light joke can set the tone for a fun conversation she wants to engage in. Just be mindful of your humor—keep it respectful and avoid anything that could be misinterpreted.
Why It Works: Playful conversations stand out because they’re enjoyable and easygoing. Women are more likely to respond to someone who can make them smile, especially in the often-serious world of online dating.
Example: “Your profile says you love dogs—does that mean you’ve mastered the art of the perfect dog selfie?”
Compliment Her Interests, Not Just Her Looks
Complimenting a woman’s appearance is fine, but leading with or only focusing on her looks might make it seem like you’re more interested in the surface-level aspects of who she is. To stand out, shift the focus to her hobbies, personality, or achievements. Compliment her based on her passion and show genuine curiosity about those interests.
Why It Works: Complimenting her interests makes her feel valued beyond her appearance, highlighting your interest in a deeper connection. It also allows her to talk more about something she cares about, making it easier to continue the conversation.
Example: “I’m impressed by your photography skills—how you captured [location] is incredible. How long have you been doing photography?”
Instead of Talking About Your Ex, Talk About How You’ve Grown
Bringing up past relationships, especially in a negative light, can be a big red flag in early conversations. It signals unresolved issues and can create an uncomfortable dynamic. Instead of focusing on what went wrong in the past, share how you’ve grown and learned from those experiences. If the topic arises, frame your response positively, highlighting personal growth and looking forward to new opportunities.
Why It Works: Talking about personal growth rather than past drama shows emotional maturity and self-awareness, both attractive qualities. It shifts the focus away from the baggage and toward future possibilities.
Example: “I’ve learned a lot from my past relationships, especially about communication and understanding. I look forward to finding a fresh start and building something meaningful.”
Stay Positive and Optimistic
A positive attitude is incredibly appealing. Women are more likely to respond to someone who seems upbeat and optimistic about dating. Avoid complaining about your previous experiences with dating apps or expressing negativity. Instead, show excitement and a lighthearted attitude toward meeting new people. Positive energy is contagious and makes the conversation feel more enjoyable for both of you.
Why It Works: Positivity sets a welcoming tone and creates a comfortable space for conversation. Women are more inclined to engage with someone who radiates enthusiasm and doesn’t take things too seriously.
Example: “I’m new to this app and excited to meet interesting people. How’s your experience been so far?”
Navigating the world of dating apps can be tricky, but using these five tips from Konvo can set you apart and increase your chances of making a genuine connection. Personalizing your messages, staying playful, complimenting her interests, focusing on growth rather than baggage, and maintaining a positive attitude will improve your chances of a reply and set the stage for meaningful interaction.
Patience and understanding is a essential, KONVOdating.com has more tips.
Anxiety is a struggle for many – and Gen Z especially. But this fun habit can make a difference.
Everyone has anxiety at times, but having it longer term can cause more issues. Insomnia, depression, gastrointestinal issues and more can result. Gen Z is seeing higher stress levels than older generations. 18 to 34-year-olds say their average stress level is a 6 out of 10, compared with a 3.4 among people ages 65 and older. APA’s 2023 Stress in America survey found. Last year, the younger generation shared their average stress was a 5.8. But a fun habit can help calm anxiety and can be done in most places.
Listening to music can relax you and calm you down. Research confirms these personal experiences with music. Current findings indicate that music around 60 beats per minute can cause the brain to synchronize with the beat causing alpha brainwaves (frequencies from 8 – 14 hertz or cycles per second). This alpha brainwave is what is present when we are relaxed and conscious.
Photo by Malte Wingen via Unsplash
Another study, published in the journal Plos One and conducted by a group of Canadian researchers from Ryerson University, utilized music and Auditory Beat Stimulation (ABS), a sound combines tones and plays them in one ear or another, stimulating the brain. ABS is an interesting method, one which seeks to provide anxiety relief in the least invasive form possible, disregarding medications.
The research examined 163 patients who were already taking anti-anxiety medication. They were instructed to listen to relaxing music, ABS sessions, both, or “pink noise,” a sound similar to white noise. Participants listened to these sessions for 24 minutes, with an artificial intelligence device selecting the music depending on the participant’s mood.
Researchers found that participants with moderate levels of anxiety experienced the most benefits after listening to music and ABS. Participants who had high levels of anxiety reaped more benefits from listening to music only when compared to the group who listened to ABS.
“The findings from this research are exciting as they indicate personalized music shows great promise in effectively reducing anxiety in specific segments of the population that suffer from anxiety,” wrote the researchers.
Music has long been associated with anxiety-relieving properties, but there haven’t been many studies that look at it through a scientific lens. Nowadays, when there are so many options for remote and digital treatment, the exploration of auditory stress-relieving tools sounds like something worth investigating, that could provide relief to large amounts of people.
Cannabis has become popular for every adult age group- but the surprise is Gen Z and Boomers are using it for similar reasons.
Cannabis is fully legal to over 50% of the population and all groups are embracing its use. Proven healthier than alcohol, it has become much more common in all sets. Even Florida looks like it is going to vote for recreational cannabis. Long stigmatized as a way to get high, be lazy and lay about on the couch, it turns out it is become part of every day life…and part of a health regime. An example of how it is being used, Boomer and Gen Z consume marijuana for similar reasons.
It is become so accepted, AARP did a study about use among Boomers. AARP is the largest print magazine with 38 million readers…and their bulletin has 33 million. A huge validator for the demographic. It also shows they are more open to more mainstream cannabis. This falls in line by the positions of the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians.
Photo by Kindel Media from Pexels
The AARP study revealed 21 percent ages 50-plus used some form of cannabis — be it food, drink, flower or another type— at least once in the last year, a report from the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging found. That’s up from 1 in 8 (12 percent) in 2021. In 2015 and 2016, roughly 3 percent of adults 65 and older used cannabis, according to research published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Roughly 68% of poll respondents who used cannabis products did so for help with sleep, the researchers found. Many also cited pain relief (63 percent), mental health, anxiety, and mood (53 percent) and relaxation (81 percent) as reasons for using cannabis.
What is interesting is Gen Z, the youngest adult generation, Gen Z, is an also a big fan of marijuana. They helped fuel the California Sober trend where you reduce or stop drinking and use weed instead. One reason Gen Z has embraced weed is it helps with anxiety and mood. They also use it for relaxation, way more so than other generation who tend to lean into alcohol.
What is interesting is some Boomers and Gen X are consume marijuana in a more traditional way by smoking. Gen X and Boomers new to consuming tend to vape and use gummies. The later two are more “on the go” and discreet and doesn’t have the smell. It is interesting the marijuana is bonding together two generations.
Roughly 19% of the people suffer from joint pain – a daily struggle…but here is how medical marijuana can help.
Roughly 19% suffer from joint pain or some part of arthritis. Not only is it painful, it is disruptive in daily life. Some pain can be short term, like from sprains, an injury, tendinitis, or tendon inflammation, an infection of the bone or joint, or overuse of a joint. But some can be long term issues with an impact the patients like. Arthritis, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, bursitis, lupus and more can be long, lingering issues with pain. There is some hope, and cannabis might be one. Here is key information about joint pain and medical marijuana.
One study concluded about 20% of patients with rheumatoid diseases who actively consume cannabis report an improvement in pain. Cannabis contains key components which help reduce inflammation. More research needs to be done to to perfect treatment and dosage, but early indicators look positive for help. Another current benefit of medical marijuana or CBD with joint pain, is it helps with sleep, which is a problem with people in chronic pain.
Photo by Ake via rawpixel.com
Medical marijuana, in the right dose can also be easier on the body. Long used as a natural pain killer, it is less addictive and the body responds positively. Currently used, orticosteroid injections have been a staple in managing pain and inflammation. With new research showcasing the long-term effects of one of the most used treatments, doctors and researchers are concerned about the risks of injections and the potential risks involved with cortisone.
A Boston University study found patients who had been given the medicine by injection found a risk for “accelerated adverse joint events after treatment.” Meaning, when a patient was treated for osteoarthritis or other joint pain via a shot of cortisone, it may have accelerated joint destruction and bone loss. The study also found certain preexisting conditions, such as older age and Caucasian race seemed to increase the risk for the outcome even more. Researchers recommended MRI pre-screening before injections were given to identify the area better and find if the danger could be accurately assessed before the dose was given.
Not only can medical marijuana be helpful, but so can CBD. The Arthritis Foundation has a guide to CBD for those that suffer from the condition. According to Dr. Daniel Clauw, a contributor to the guide, “Right now, it (CBD) appears to be fairly safe and might help certain types of pain.”
While CBD and THC can be used as part of a pain management regimen, they currently can not be the entire plan. Studies like the one conducted on cortisone treatments are bringing the conversations of cannabis and CBD to greater light and offering less stigmatization, but until more research is done, the best path for joint pain is still unknown.
The election is near and the chatter is non – stop. Need a break? Try one of these strong cocktails and unwind.
Local and national politics seem to be sucking up all the energy in the room. Unity seems to be a bit short and everyone is on edge. What the people need is a little break and maybe a drink and these strong cocktails will help forget politics and perhaps aid in making a few friends, or at least common ground with the bartender!
This drink has been the introduction of hangovers to many a college student. Slow and go is perfect for the Long Island Iced Tea. There are competing thoughts on the invention of the drink, but what is clear – it was invented in Long Island. Flavor rich, this drink is best served with a snack.
Ingredients
½fluid ouncevodka
½fluid ouncerum
½fluid ouncegin
½fluid ouncetequila
½fluid ouncetriple sec (orange-flavored liqueur)
1fluid ouncesweet and sour mix
1fluid ouncecola, or to taste
1lemon slice
Create
Fill cocktail shaker with ice
Add vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, and sour mix over ice
Cover and shake.
Pour cocktail into a tall glass
Top with splash of cola or tea for color
Garnish with a lemon slice
Manhattan
A classic drink with a nod to the days of back room political deals, the Manhattan is a classic – the brown water version of the martini. The legend of this drink is it was born in an election. Said to be developed at the Manhattan Club by Ian Marshall for a dinner hosted for presidential candidate Samuel J. Tilden. The host, Winston Churchhill’s mother, Lady Randolph Churchill, the former American Jennie Jerome.
Ingredients
2fluid ouncesrye whiskey
½fluid ouncesweet vermouth
1dashAngostura bitters
1cupice cubes
1maraschino cherry
Create
Combine whiskey, vermouth, and bitters in a cocktail mixing glass
Another gift from New Orleans, the best drinking city in the US. It was a house cocktail of the late restaurant La Louisiane. The eatery was famous for their bouillabaisse, strong drinks and sad demise. But this cocktail is a toast to good times.
Ingredients
2ounces rye whiskey
3/4ouncesweet vermouth
1/2ounceBenedictine
3dashesabsinthe
3dashes Peychaud’s bitters
1 maraschino cherry
Create
Add the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, absinthe and Peychaud’s bitters into a mixing glass with ice
The history of this cocktail is unknown with early versions showing up in London, Chicago and the South of France. What is clear, Chicago has a long history with politics, so what not imbibe in a drink to make you leave it behind.
Ingredients
1.5 oz brandy
1 dash of Grand Marnier
1 dash Angostura Bitters
Splash of sparkling bubbles
Create
Combine all ingredients in pitcher
Add ice and stir well
Strain into cocktail glass rimmed with superfine sugar
Top up with sparkling wine
May you muddle through through the rest of the election season with the cocktails.
Fall is football season which means it is time for tailgate parties! Maybe you should add hemp to the buffet!
Football season is here – and whether college or professional, tailgating is a thing. It takes place around sporting events, festivals and concerts. There is usually food, drinks, music and a good time. But, should you add hemp beverages to your tailgating? While marijuana is slowly becoming legal across the national, some big football states aren’t there. But hemp is legal and even some deep anti-marijuana states are embracing it. Texas, a huge football state, has hemp beverages sold at local and national chains. Hemp beverage can be seen as taking a bite out of the White Claw market, yet a bit healthier.
The nemesis of marijuana, Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is proud of his blocking federal progress, but he has ensured hemp has a green light. Hemp beverage have become a billion dollar market. Wana Brands, a leader in the cannabis industry, has rolled out 3 beverages. Bayou Beverages out of Texas has taken the state by storm with products in Total Wine and convenience stores around the state. Hemp is sold like alcohol with restrictions on age and how it is sold.
Hemp or CBD drinks are created by infusing hemp extract, derived from the cannabis plant, into a liquid base. The most popular hemp-infused drinks include water, juice, tea, and coffee. One of the big differences between marijuana and hemp drinks is the “high”. With Delta-9 hemp, consumers tend to have a more intense experience and comes on faster than THC. It is a euphoric high when altered sensory perception and a sense of relaxation.
California Governor Newsom is supporting emergency rules to curb sale of hemp products with potent high. The state is struggling with their cannabis industry, high taxes and allowing the black market to run free have hurt mom and pop businesses. While consumers have been high, the states oversight has been driving them to hemp and to the marijuana black market.
A staple of neighborhoods for meats, fresh vegetables and more – will California add in marijuana?
About 12% of people browse and potentially shop a Farmer’s Market on a regular basis. Usually they are pop-ups in a neighborhood with everything from local meat and fresh vegetables to vintage clothing and handcrafted products. Now the question is will California let marijuana be sold at farmers markets? A bill is going through the state legislature to allow small batch farmers and producers to sell at these venues. It could be an another step in fixing the chaos around their cannabis market.
The California cannabis industry has been struggling. With high taxes from state, regional and local governments, the businesses are burdened with high operational costs. Additionally, the state has done little or nothing to reduce the black market. This has lead some companies have gone under. Despite consumer use growing. While there has been lots of talk, this is one of the first major action. When legalization first started sweeping the country, California was the largest market. But with New York slowly getting their act together after chaotic rollout of recreational, they may lose out of being the top market.
This summer, the state legislature developed a bill to allow small producers to sell at local markets. This would be give some of the mom and pop more opportunity to reach consumers. They would only be allowed to see at markets in places like San Francisco where cannabis events are allowed by local governments. It would also cut overhead and the purchase price for customers, potentially reducing the huge black market in the state. The bill was forwarded to Governor Newsom, who is pondering whether or not to sign it and make it possible.
Governor Newson is a seasoned politician who is always looking to the future. This could be the first step in helping a popular, and for the state, profitable industry. Newsom was elected governor of California in 2018 and has stewarded the government’s action toward the industry, this could help provide some much needed relief.
While it is popular, easy to use and seen everywhere, vaping could have this effect on men.
It is seen everywhere and is viewed as a much easier option than smoking. Indulging in cigarettes, cigars and joints in general public spaces have been banned since the early 2000s. Prior to the ban it was a Wild West. Up until the late 80s smoking was permitted at work, hospitals, grocery stories, schools, bars, restaurants, and planes. When it began being banned from smoking inside, smoking decreased. After the ban, vaping technology emerged and went public in 2003. By 2011 about 7 million vaped globally, with over 82 million vaping in 2021. The number has only reason. When cannabis become legal, vaping marijuana become popular and is in a tight race with smoking and gummies for ways people consume. But there is a warning, vaping could have this effect on men…erectile dysfunction.
While they have lower levels of chemicals, vapes may still damage endothelial cells. It may cause oxidative stress on the endothelial cells lining blood vessels. This can affect nitric oxide (NO) levels and their signaling in the body. This can be an issue as sufficient NO is necessary to produce an erection.
Photo by Dmitry_Tishchenko/Getty Images
One study suggests men who vape nicotine are twice as likely to experience erectile dysfunction when compared to men who don’t vape. And cannabinoid receptors at the level of both the brain and penis may negatively impact erectile function.
The first study, published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, looked into deeper understanding of vaping and sexual health regarding men. They analyzed self-reported data from over 13,000 men over the age of 20. Among the findings: Men who used e-cigarettes were found to be 2.2 times more likely to have erectile dysfunction.
Some caveats in the study include that the data was self-reported, with there being the possibility of bias. Another thing to be mindful of is the fact that the survey didn’t ask any questions on whether or not the men were taking medications which increased the risks of erectile dysfunction, like antidepressants.
Nicotine has long been linked with a variety of sexual dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction and decreased arousal. Researchers believe this link exists due to smoking and the damage it imparts on circulation, which can also increase the odds of heart disease and strokes. When circulation is impacted, it makes it more difficult for erections to occur naturally.
Cannabis has long been used as an aphrodisiac, light use can relax the body and increase sensational. But, some research has shown heavy consumption may cause problems. So it may be important not only how much you consume but how you consume. If you have issues, talk to a health professional.
Fall is in the air and if you need a little extra nudge toward working out, here are some tips!
The leaves are about to start changing, signaling the beginning of autumn. School is back, people are more focused at work and the calendar is packed with things before the onslaught of the holiday season. For some, it is a chance to maintain their workout schedule, for others, the shortening days and the crisp air can push toward lighting up on the work outs. To help out, it is good to have a buddy. They help and a study, study, men were more likely than women to do physical activity with a partner 1–4x a month. If you need an extra, marijuana makes for a good exercise partner. Marijuana can help motivate you and gather energy for exercise and it can give more focus. Here are the best marijuana strains to help with fall fitness.
While the imagine of the stoner as being lazy is common, it is actually a myth. Gen Z is seeing it as a healthier lifestyle using it to work out more and drink less. Some of the benefits of a low dosage marijuana in a workout include focus, faster recovery, and pain relief. And now cannabis is on the go with vapes, gummies and oils, making it easier to use in public. It is fast acting and discreet while in the gym or on a run or walk with a buddy.
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Jack Herer
This sativa dominant strain is popular for its clear headed and creative high making it perfect for daytime consumption, leaving you focused, energized and ready to take on the day.
White Widow
White Widow is famous for its energetic effects and is a common medical strain. Of unknown origins, it is a balanced hybrid to energize without feeling out of control.
Sour Diesel
This strain is super popular for its energizing and dreamy effects. This strain is also popular amongst patients who suffer from depression, pain and anxiety.
This hybrid provides a well balanced high affecting your mind and body, leaving you relaxed but focused. It’s a versatile type of marijuana providing different effects depending on your mood.
As the name suggests, this marijuana strain is strong and fast acting, pumping your day full of energy. This strain is also popular with patients who suffer from depression, fatigue and stress.
Jillybean
This upbeat and happy hybrid is perfect for daytime use, leaving you energized and ready for activity.
Chocolope
This sweet chocolatey type of marijuana provides a dreamy and cerebral high making you excited to go to the gym and burn some extra energy
This strain has a floral and citrusy smell should be consumed with care due to its very powerful effects. When done right, Ghost Train Haze will leave you feeling focused and energized.
Durban Poison
This sativa is perfect for getting you pumped up and ready for the gym, containing high levels of THCV, a cannabinoid known for producing a lot of energy and engagement.
