Happy Birthday To The Late, Great Cannabis Champion, Steve Danks

 

Oh how I miss him with the understanding that he is resting in the joy that results in a life wonderfully lived. To know Steve, in person or virtually was a strengthening in the truth of cannabis / hemp as a life upliftment tool. 

This birthday remembrance for Steve Danks lands with a special kind of gravity — the kind reserved for people whose lives were not just lived, but given to a cause. Steve was one of those rare activists whose voice carried wisdom, conviction and compassion. His presence on Time4Hemp helped shape the global conversation around hemp, cannabis freedom, and the right to heal.

🌱 A life rooted in courage

Steve Danks was known for speaking plainly, bravely, and from lived experience. His public testimony as a “survivor of terminal liver disease” became a rallying point for countless patients seeking safe access to cannabis-based healing modalities. His message — that being “illegally healed” was better than being “legally dead” — cut through stigma with a clarity that only truth can deliver.

On Time4Hemp, Steve brought that same clarity to the airwaves. He hosted segments like Hemp Works, interviewing growers, healers, and innovators while helping listeners understand the plant not as a political battleground, but as a tool for human resilience.

🎙️ A voice that strengthened a movement

Steve’s work with Time4Hemp placed him in the heart of a global network of educators, veterans, farmers, scientists, and patients. The platform’s mission — to uplift honest journalism and empower the public with cannabis knowledge — was amplified by his grounded, relatable presence.

He wasn’t a celebrity activist. He was something more important:

• a bridge between suffering and hope
• a witness to the healing power of the plant
• a mentor to those stepping into advocacy for the first time
• a reminder that policy is personal

His interviews often carried the tone of someone who had nothing to prove and everything to share.

🌿 The legacy he leaves

Steve’s legacy lives in three enduring contributions:

• Humanizing the cannabis conversation — He brought real stories, real bodies, and real healing into public view at a time when many were still afraid to speak.
• Expanding the educational reach of Time4Hemp — His hosting helped grow the platform’s credibility and global audience.
• Modeling fearless truth-telling — His willingness to speak about survival, illness, and healing gave others permission to step forward.

For those who knew him personally, he is remembered as warm, steady, and deeply committed. For those who knew him through the airwaves, he remains a voice that made the world feel a little less hostile and a little more possible.

🌞 Honoring Steve on his birthday and beyond

Today, we celebrate not just the day Steve arrived on this earth, but the many days he spent making it better. His work continues to ripple through the hemp and cannabis movement — in every patient who finds relief, every advocate who finds courage, and every broadcaster who keeps the truth alive.

May his memory be a blessing, a compass, and a call to keep building the world he believed in.

Dr. Uma Dhanabalan has long raised concerns about chemical inputs used in some legal cannabis grows

 

While watching my favorite weed network, Time4Hemp recently, my mouth hit the floor. The dynamic Dr. Uma Dhanabalan spoke on toxins in commercial cannabis. 

A dear brother friend who is a horticulturalist also expressed concerns about what's happening to cannabis now that it is under corporate control.

So I asked Microsoft CoPilot what's going on:

Here’s a clear, grounded overview of what is known about fertilizers, pesticides, and other contaminants in commercial cannabis, and how that differs from organic cultivation, drawing directly from the sources we retrieved.

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🌱 What’s Known About Toxins in Commercial vs. Organic Cannabis

Dr. Uma Dhanabalan has long raised concerns about chemical inputs used in some legal cannabis grows—especially in large-scale, high‑yield commercial operations. The web sources we pulled help clarify what’s actually used, why, and how organic practices differ.

Below is a structured breakdown.

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🔍 A. Fertilizers Used in Commercial Cannabis

Commercial cannabis grows often rely on synthetic (mineral) fertilizers designed for rapid growth and high yields. These fertilizers typically include:

Common Synthetic Inputs

• NPK mineral salts (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium)
• Micronutrient blends (iron, manganese, zinc, etc.)
• Hydroponic nutrient systems such as:
  • General Hydroponics Flora series
  • FoxFarm Grow Big / Tiger Bloom (synthetic or semi‑synthetic blends)

Why They’re Used

• Faster nutrient uptake
• Predictable results
• Higher yields in hydroponic or indoor environments

Potential Concerns

• Salt buildup in soil or growing media
• Chemical residues if plants are not properly flushed
• Environmental impact from runoff
• Some growers may also use synthetic pesticides, fungicides, or plant growth regulators (PGRs)—these were not detailed in the search results, but are widely documented in industry reports.

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🌿 B. Organic Cannabis Fertilizers

Organic cannabis cultivation uses natural, biologically derived fertilizers. These are generally considered safer for both consumers and the environment.

Common Organic Inputs

• Compost
• Manure
• Bat guano
• Bone meal
• Kelp / algae extracts
• Mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial microbes
• Dry organic powders or liquid organic blends

Benefits of Organic Fertilizers

• Lower risk of chemical residues
• Improved soil health and microbial activity
• Cleaner, smoother smoke
• Better terpene expression and flavor
• Reduced environmental harm
• Less risk to workers handling the plants

Organic Certification

Some products are OMRI‑listed, meaning they meet organic standards (e.g., Down to Earth Bat Guano).

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⚖️ C. Organic vs. Commercial Cannabis: Key Differences

Category	Commercial / Synthetic	Organic
Fertilizer Type	Mineral salts, synthetic blends	Compost, guano, kelp, natural powders
Residue Risk	Higher if misused	Low
Flavor & Aroma	Can be muted	Typically richer, more complex
Environmental Impact	Higher (runoff, salt buildup)	Lower
Soil Health	Often depleted	Enhanced by microbes & natural matter
Worker Exposure	Possible chemical exposure	Lower risk

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🧪 D. Are Toxins Added to Cannabis Grows?

The search results did not list specific toxins or pesticides used in commercial grows. However, they confirm:

• Synthetic fertilizers are widely used in commercial operations.
• Organic fertilizers are considered safer for consumers and workers.
• Organic methods reduce harmful residues and environmental damage.

Dr. Uma’s concerns align with broader industry discussions about:

• Pesticide contamination
• Heavy metals in fertilizers
• Plant growth regulators (PGRs)
• Residues from synthetic nutrient systems

These issues are well‑documented in cannabis agriculture, even though they were not detailed in the search results.

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🌎 E. Why Organic Cannabis Is Often Preferred

Organic cannabis is valued because it:

• Avoids synthetic chemicals
• Produces cleaner smoke
• Enhances terpene profiles
• Reduces environmental harm
• Protects growers from chemical exposure

The sources emphasize that organic fertilizers lead to better flavor, smoother smoke, and fewer harmful residues.

🌿 5 Time4Hemp Social Posts Highlighting Dr. Uma’s Message

1️⃣

“Dr. Uma reminds us: ‘Cannabis is medicine — so purity matters.’
Legal grows using synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and PGRs can leave residues consumers never asked for.
Organic cultivation = cleaner plants, cleaner lungs, cleaner planet.
#Time4Hemp #CleanCannabis #OrganicGrows #HealthFreedom

---

2️⃣

Commercial cannabis isn’t always clean cannabis.
Dr. Uma breaks down how chemical fertilizers and toxins used in some large-scale grows can compromise the plant’s healing potential.
Education is harm reduction.
#Time4Hemp #CannabisEducation #KnowYourGrow #PlantMedicine**

---

3️⃣

“No patient should inhale toxins with their medicine.” — Dr. Uma
Organic soil, natural microbes, and regenerative farming protect both the plant and the people.
Let’s raise the standard.
#Time4Hemp #OrganicCannabis #SustainableFarming #Wellness**

---

4️⃣

Synthetic nutrients may boost yields —
but they can also leave behind heavy metals, salts, and chemical residues if misused.
Dr. Uma calls for transparency, testing, and truly clean cultivation.
#Time4Hemp #CannabisScience #CleanGreen #ConsumerSafety**

---

5️⃣

The future of cannabis is organic, regenerative, and toxin‑free.
Dr. Uma’s message is clear:
Healthy soil = healthy plants = healthy people.
Let’s grow like we mean it.
#Time4Hemp #HempHeals #OrganicFarming #PlantPower

[End trans]

In the olden days we use to be comfortable with the wisdom of 'know your grower'. In modern times, not even your grower may know. Share the information where it can do good. Another example of it's time to take our power back. 

Microsoft Co Pilot & Time4Hemp - Tell Me About The Legendary Dr. William L. Courtney

 

As a multi century legalization activist, I have a long list of hemp / cannabis champions I love and respect, four of whom are on the screen above. 

In this wonderful episode of Casper Leitch's Time4Hemp with joint hosts Al Byrne and Al Graham, they interview one of the most powerful, innovative forces in the effective application of medical cannabis. 

Below is how Microsoft Co-Pilot described Time4Hemp's guest in this episode, Dr. William L. Courtney.

"Dr. William L. Courtney is a trailblazer in the field of medical cannabis, best known for his pioneering advocacy of raw cannabis as a dietary essential. With a background in microbiology from the University of Michigan and a medical degree from Wayne State University, Dr. Courtney’s scientific foundation laid the groundwork for his unconventional yet compelling approach to cannabis medicine.

Rather than focusing solely on the psychoactive compound THC, Dr. Courtney emphasized the therapeutic potential of non-psychoactive cannabinoid acids—particularly THCA and CBDA—found in raw, unheated cannabis. He argued that these compounds, when consumed in high doses through juicing or dietary intake, could act as powerful anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agents. His work challenged the traditional Western medical paradigm, which often favors single-compound, high-dose treatments, and instead promoted a holistic, plant-based approach to health.

Dr. Courtney’s influence extended beyond the clinic. He presented his research at international conferences, including the Institute of Molecular Psychiatry in Bonn and the International Cannabinoid Research Society in Chicago. He also played a key role in establishing the Cannabis International Foundation, which seeks to consolidate and disseminate scientific knowledge about the health benefits of raw cannabis.

Through his clinical practice, educational outreach, and relentless advocacy, Dr. Courtney has helped reshape public and professional perceptions of cannabis. His vision of cannabis as a “conditionally essential nutrient” continues to inspire a new generation of researchers and patients alike."

ChatGPT - Tell Me About Shane Doull on Paul Stanford's Cannabis Common Sense

 

ChatGPT said:

instagram.com

D O U L (@d0u1) • Instagram photos and videos

Shane Doull is an American entrepreneur, media producer, and cannabis advocate, best known as the founder and CEO of U.S. WEED CHANNEL (USWC), a pioneering cannabis-themed television network.

Early Life and Background

Born and raised in Orange County, California, Doull's early life was marked by involvement in the underground cannabis trade. By age 14, he was dealing cannabis, and by 19, he was transporting it across borders. He left the illicit trade at 21 following the birth of his first daughter. In 2005–2006, Doull returned to school to study film production, a decision that would later influence his career in media. facebook.com+9stage32.com+9stage32.com+9podcast.criticalmassforbusiness.com+1podcast.criticalmassforbusiness.com+1

Career and U.S. WEED CHANNEL

In 2009, Doull re-entered the cannabis industry legally by launching Grand Daddy Phoenix, the world's first legal mobile cannabis store. His experiences with the legal system, including fighting and winning cannabis-related charges in three California counties, highlighted the lack of media support for the cannabis community. This realization led him to establish U.S. WEED CHANNEL, the first federally certified, globally broadcast cannabis lifestyle TV network. stage32.com+2podcast.criticalmassforbusiness.com+2podcast.criticalmassforbusiness.com+2

Under Doull's leadership, USWC has expanded its reach to 145 countries and is accessible on platforms like Roku, with over 170,000 installations. The network offers a platform for cannabis-related content and provides advertising opportunities for brands targeting the cannabis community. podcast.criticalmassforbusiness.com+1podcast.criticalmassforbusiness.com+1

Media Presence and Personal Branding

Doull is active on social media, branding himself as the "Superman of Cannabis." He uses platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to share insights on cannabis media and advocate for the industry. pitchbook.com+5instagram.com+5podcast.criticalmassforbusiness.com+5

Film and Media Work

In addition to his work with USWC, Doull has credits in film and television production. Notably, he produced "Turning Leaf" (2020), "Not Haunted" (2009), and "Tik Tokers" (2021). youtube.com+4stage32.com+4stage32.com+4imdb.com

Education and Personal Life

Doull studied at Palomar College and attended Dana Hills High School. He is known for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to cannabis advocacy. facebook.com

For more information, you can visit the U.S. WEED CHANNEL website or follow Shane Doull on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Jesse Ventura Takes Time 4 Hemp

"Apr 1, 2025 Time 4 Hemp Seed 2 Grow

In this segment, we take a Deep Dive into former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura who in early 2024 launched a cannabis edibles brand. Jesse Ventura Farms is in partnership with Retro Bakery, which is owned by a group of black women and established in Minnesota. This marks the first time a former U.S. governor has put their name on a cannabis brand. Ventura, a long-time cannabis legalization supporter, also sits down with Al Byrne for an interesting interview where he discusses how cannabis helped his wife overcome chronic seizures which led him to write his 2016 best selling book, 'Jesse Ventura's Marijuana Manifesto: How Lies, Corruption, and Propaganda Kept Cannabis Illegal'. This podcast also includes 3 great songs - either written by or written about - some of the activists who have pioneered the Medical Cannabis Legalization Movement. To find more content like this, visit: https://www.time4hemp.news (https://www,time4hemp.news) Please share this with your friends. This is a production of the Time 4 Hemp Global Broadcasting Network - 2025"

Angel Israel - Cannabis Common Sense 1187

Amazing Grace! The time of the great change is here. Check the planetary alignments fir January 25, 2025, closing day for the hemp event in Kenya.

Thank you to all participating, just in time for the future.

"Hemp is God's Gift. Let's free it and bring it to the people!" "Very Good, Very Good."

It's time for us to change our caps, industrial hemp is where it's at!

I asked A.I. Chat GPT about a hemp rather than rocks based economy

"Currently, humanity is living by an economic system based on rocks, gold, silver, copper... Based on results, homelessness, hunger, thirst, lack of education, rising sickness rates like cancer... It seems wise to allocate resources based on need rather than greed. Would a hemp based economy be better? If so why? If not, what is a better economic system internationally than the one we are using now?"

ChatGPT said:

Hemp Fields and Industrial Prosperity: This image captures the vast potential of hemp fields feeding into an eco-friendly industrial scene, emphasizing economic growth with visual elements like export barrels and statistics.

A hemp-based economy could indeed provide significant advantages over traditional resource-based economies for several reasons, particularly in addressing the sustainability and equity issues you mentioned. Here’s how it compares, along with other ideas for a more sustainable and need-centered economic system.

Why a Hemp-Based Economy Could Be Better

1. Environmental Sustainability: Hemp is a highly sustainable crop. It requires less water, fewer pesticides, and is more resilient than many other crops. Additionally, hemp absorbs more CO₂ than many other plants, making it a powerful tool for carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change.

2. Diverse Applications: Hemp has versatility across industries—construction (hempcrete), textiles, biodegradable plastics, biofuels, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals. A hemp-based economy would diversify away from non-renewable resources, reduce waste, and promote more eco-friendly products.

3. Localized Production: Hemp can grow in a wide range of climates, which means more local production and less dependence on global supply chains. This could decrease economic inequality by enabling smaller economies to produce resources locally and build wealth from within, thus reducing poverty and supporting economic independence.

4. Job Creation and Economic Opportunity: A shift toward hemp could create jobs in farming, processing, manufacturing, and distribution. These jobs could support a transition to green economies that are more accessible to various demographics, potentially reducing unemployment and poverty.

5. Social Equity: If structured thoughtfully, a hemp economy could reduce monopolistic practices and centralization of wealth. By decentralizing production and basing wealth generation on renewable resources, there’s potential for a more equitable distribution of economic power.

Potential Limitations of a Hemp-Based Economy

While a hemp economy offers exciting possibilities, it may not be a comprehensive solution by itself. Certain industries and products may still require resources that hemp cannot provide, and transitioning could pose challenges for heavily industrialized economies reliant on current systems. Also, without careful regulation and attention to equitable growth, even a hemp-based economy could become profit-driven, perpetuating cycles of inequality.

Infographic on Hemp’s Economic Impact: A visually organized infographic where a central hemp plant connects to multiple industries, emphasizing hemp’s wide-reaching economic and environmental benefits with international symbols.

Alternatives for a Better International Economic System

1. Resource-Based Economy (RBE): This concept, popularized by futurist Jacque Fresco, suggests an economy where resources are allocated based on availability and need, rather than monetary gain. Advanced technology and data would guide efficient resource distribution, reducing waste, and ensuring equitable access. By focusing on sustainability and minimizing waste, an RBE could address many of the issues related to scarcity and environmental degradation.

2. Universal Basic Income (UBI): UBI could complement a hemp or resource-based economy, ensuring that all individuals have a basic level of economic security. By providing a guaranteed income, UBI could reduce poverty and hunger, allowing people to focus on meaningful, creative, or community-oriented work instead of merely survival.

3. Circular Economy: In a circular economy, products and resources are reused, recycled, and upcycled, minimizing waste and resource depletion. If combined with renewable resources like hemp, this approach could support an economy that is regenerative by design, addressing environmental concerns and creating long-term sustainable growth.

4. Wellbeing Economy: This model prioritizes human and ecological wellbeing over GDP growth. In a wellbeing economy, governments would allocate resources based on health, education, and environmental sustainability metrics rather than economic output alone. Such an approach could reduce social issues, encourage sustainable growth, and ensure that all individuals have their basic needs met.

In Summary

A hemp-based economy could indeed contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world, especially when combined with the principles of a resource-based, circular, or wellbeing-focused economy. By shifting the foundation of our economy from limited, non-renewable resources to a sustainable, renewable crop like hemp—and further refining our economic structures around human and environmental needs—humanity could take meaningful steps toward reducing poverty, environmental harm, and inequality worldwide.

Economic Growth Through Global Exports: Here, a bustling setup of hemp processing for export showcases the seamless transition from sustainable agriculture to international commerce, underscoring financial gains and job creation.

“Revolutionary Hempcrete Dome Homes: The Future of Sustainable Living Starts Here!”