Bud and Mary_Duncan Mackie. PhD Director of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics

Today, I’m joined by Dr. Duncan Mackie, Director of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics at Bud & Mary's—an MSO with operations in Colorado, Michigan, Iowa, and Missouri.

Under Dr. Mackie’s leadership, Bud & Mary’s became the first cannabis company and multi-state operator to obtain a DEA research license—marking a major milestone for the industry.

With a PhD in pharmacology and deep expertise in drug discovery, molecular biology, and G-protein-coupled receptor pharmacology, Dr. Mackie is advancing our understanding of cannabinoids and their interaction with the endocannabinoid system. His work is helping to identify novel drug targets and explore the therapeutic potential of cannabis for a range of medical conditions.

Bud & Mary’s also applies this scientific insight to their product formulations, integrating cutting-edge research into what’s available on dispensary shelves.

In our conversation, we explore their approach to product development, the regulatory hurdles they face, and their long-term vision.

https://www.budmary.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-mackie-ph-d-3bb1892b/

The Mary Jane Society is produced and hosted by Pam Chmiel, a journalist, freelance writer, and marketing and PR specialist in the cannabis industry. Get in touch to discuss your business strategy or explore working together at pam@TheMaryJaneSociety.com.

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Today, we're welcoming the team behind Vitabudz — a NYC legacy street brand making the leap into the legal cannabis market. Founded by brothers Jullian and Rich Murray, Vitabudz has teamed up with veteran cultivator Aaron Field to bring their passion for top-shelf, regeneratively grown cannabis to the New York marketplace.

Their story is rooted in experience — with Jullian, Rich, and Aaron honing their cultivation skills in Colorado and California before returning home to New York, ready to take on the state's fast-growing legal industry. We dive into Aaron's sustainable farming practices, the Murray brothers' journey from the streets of Brooklyn to building a recognized brand, and their strategy for marketing their flower and edibles in this new, competitive landscape.

Let's find out how Vitabudz plans to stand out and thrive in New York's evolving cannabis scene.

The Mary Jane Society is produced and hosted by Pam Chmiel, a journalist, freelance writer, and marketing and PR specialist in the cannabis industry. Get in touch to discuss your business strategy or explore working together at pam@TheMaryJaneSociety.com.

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Today's guest is Dr. Avery Gilbert, a Sensory Scientist with roots in the luxury perfume industry. He's worked with major global brands and now brings his expertise to the cannabis space, helping companies elevate their products through sensory research and R&D.

In this episode, we explore what truly defines a luxury product—beyond just price or packaging. From wine to perfume, luxury goods share common threads: craftsmanship, culture, technology, media, retail experience, and the art of blending. Cannabis brands can reach luxury status if done the right way.

We'll break down these elements to understand whether cannabis can not only claim luxury status—but earn it.

https://www.synesthetics.com/

The Mary Jane Society is produced and hosted by Pam Chmiel, a journalist, freelance writer, and marketing and PR specialist in the cannabis industry. Get in touch to discuss your business strategy or explore working together at pam@TheMaryJaneSociety.com.

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