Rethinking The Stoner: Lessons from Wayne’s Cannabis Journey
Welcome, fellow foodies, cannabis enthusiasts, and the canna-curious! In this special Cannabis Confessions episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Wayne, a long-time listener, Bite Me Cannabis Club member, and a cannabis consumer with decades of experience. Wayne’s story is a masterclass in how cannabis use can evolve over time and enrich our lives, especially as legalization sweeps across new jurisdictions.
I’m breaking down the main themes and actionable insights from our conversation. No matter where you are in your own journey, Wayne’s tips and reflections offer a nuanced, real-world guide to responsible, joyful cannabis use.
Listen to this episode:
1. Embracing the Evolution: From Stigma to Acceptance
Wayne’s journey began in the 1980s, a time when cannabis was shrouded in stigma and secrecy. He reminisced about winning a cannabis legalization poster at a carnival, an early sign of shifting attitudes, even if his parents didn’t quite grasp the implications. Fast forward to today, and Wayne is living proof that the “lazy stoner” stereotype is outdated and inaccurate.
Key Takeaways:
- Cannabis users are diverse and high-functioning. Wayne, like many, balances work, family, and hobbies while integrating cannabis into his life.
- Legalization changes everything. The shift in New York’s laws allowed Wayne to re-embrace cannabis openly, focusing on wellness rather than worry.
- Challenge stereotypes. As Wayne points out, successful figures like Snoop Dogg have built empires around cannabis, showing that productivity and cannabis can go hand-in-hand.
Actionable Advice:
- Be open about your cannabis use if you feel safe. Normalizing conversations helps break down stigma.
- Educate those around you. Share facts and personal experiences to challenge outdated perceptions.
2. Microdosing for Wellness: Less is More
One of Wayne’s most valuable insights is his approach to microdosing. After years of experimentation, he’s found that small, carefully measured doses are the key to managing joint pain and swelling without unwanted side effects.
Wayne’s Microdosing Method:
- Start low, go slow. Wayne’s cookies are tiny, about the size of a quarter, each containing a modest dose. This way you can always increase the dose by eating another cookie.
- Track your tolerance. He pays close attention to how his body responds, adjusting as needed.
- Aim for the minimum effective dose. The goal is relief, not intoxication.
Why Microdosing Works:
- Reduces risk of overconsumption. Especially important with edibles, which can have delayed effects.
- Supports daily routines. Wayne can manage pain and stay productive without feeling “out of it.”
- Promotes responsible use. Microdosing is ideal for those new to cannabis or returning after a break.
Expert Tip:
- Keep a dosing journal. Record what you take, when, and how you feel. This helps you dial in your perfect dose and avoid surprises. Try the Bite Me Edibles Journal on Amazon.
3. Edibles: Homemade, Discreet, and Shareable
Wayne’s edible game is strong. He prefers making his own cookies, which allows for precise dosing and the ability to share with friends and family who might benefit from cannabis. The small size of the cookies allows for people to consume only what they need.
Wayne’s Edible Wisdom:
- Small batch, small size. Tiny cookies make it easy to control intake and offer discreet consumption.
- Full-spectrum infusion. Wayne decarboxylates his cannabis in a sealed jar to preserve cannabinoids and terpenes, and to reduce the smell.
- Consent is key. He never gives anyone an edible without their knowledge, respect and transparency are non-negotiable.
My Pro Tips:
- Experiment with recipes. Today’s resources, cookbooks, online guides, and podcasts (like Bite Me!), make it easier than ever to create delicious, effective edibles.
- Label everything. Especially if you share a kitchen with non-consumers. Clear labeling prevents accidental consumption.
- Calculate the potency. Even if your creations are small in size, they could still be more potent than someone needs. Every body respond differently. Try the Bite Me Calculator or Dosing Cheat Sheet.
Actionable Steps:
- Try Wayne’s decarb method: Place your cannabis in a sealed mason jar, then heat gently to activate cannabinoids while preserving flavor.
- Share responsibly: Always inform and get consent before offering infused treats.
4. Exploring Methods: Find What Works for You
Wayne’s cannabis journey has included everything from bongs and bowls to vaporizers and topicals. His current favorites? Edibles for long-lasting relief and dry herb vaporizers for a clean, flavorful experience.
Consumption Methods Discussed:
- Vaporizing: Gentler on the lungs, preserves terpenes, and offers a nuanced sensory experience.
- One-hitter pipes: Perfect for quick, controlled doses without drawing attention.
- Topicals: Wayne uses MCT oil infused with cannabis for targeted relief, especially in cold weather.
Why Variety Matters:
- Different methods, different effects. Smoking, vaping, eating, and applying cannabis all offer unique benefits and onset times.
- Personalization is key. What works for Wayne might not work for you, experiment to find your ideal method.
Expert Advice:
- Invest in a quality vaporizer. Dry herb vaporizers are a game-changer for flavor and lung health.
- DIY topicals: Infuse coconut or MCT oil with decarbed cannabis for a simple, effective salve.
5. Cannabis and Exercise: A Surprising Synergy
Wayne swears by a small dose of THC before hitting his home gym. He finds it helps with focus, pain relief, and even attention deficit symptoms, without the heavy sedation some expect.
How Cannabis Can Enhance Workouts:
- Pain management: Reduces discomfort, making exercise more enjoyable.
- Focus and motivation: For some, cannabis can quiet distractions and boost concentration.
- Customizable experience: Microdosing ensures you get the benefits without feeling impaired.
Margaret’s Note:
- Listen to your body. Not everyone responds the same way, start with a low dose and see how you feel before making cannabis a regular part of your fitness routine.
- Learn from an expert. Check out this episode with Dr. Whitney Ogle on cannabis and exercise.
6. Navigating Social Dynamics: Discretion and Curiosity
Both Wayne and I have found ourselves as the lone cannabis user in our social circles. Wayne’s solution? Discreet edibles before gatherings, and open, honest conversations when friends express curiosity.
Tips for Social Cannabis Use:
- Be discreet if needed. Edibles are odorless and easy to consume without drawing attention.
- Field questions with patience. Many non-users are curious, be a resource, not a preacher.
- Respect boundaries. Never pressure anyone to try cannabis, and always be upfront about infused foods.
Expert Insight:
- Community matters. If you feel isolated, seek out cannabis-friendly groups online or locally, like the Bite Me Cannabis Club!
7. Culinary Creativity: From Firecrackers to Gourmet Edibles
Wayne and I laughed about our early edible experiments, think “firecrackers” and brownies with raw cannabis. Thankfully, the culinary cannabis world has come a long way.
Modern Edible Tips:
- Proper infusion is essential. Decarboxylate your cannabis and infuse it into fat (like butter or oil) for maximum potency and flavor. Check out this Cannabis Infusion Guide.
- Explore new cannabinoids. Wayne and I discussed emerging compounds like CBG and THC-V, which offer unique effects (think energy and appetite suppression).
- Stay curious. The world of cannabis cooking is vast, don’t be afraid to try new cultivars, recipes and techniques.
Two Cookbook Picks:
- How To Eat Weed And Have A Good Time by Vanessa Lavorato
- Willie and Annie Wilson’s Cannabis Cookbook – great for savory recipes
8. Dispelling Myths: The Modern Cannabis Consumer
Wayne’s story is a powerful reminder that cannabis users are as varied as the plant itself. He’s a family man, a fitness enthusiast, and by all appearances, straight-laced. The lazy stoner stereotype? Pure fiction.
How to Combat Stereotypes:
- Lead by example. Be the high-functioning, responsible consumer that challenges expectations.
- Share your story. Personal narratives are powerful tools for changing minds.
- Support legalization and education. The more we know, the less we fear.
9. Growing Your Own: Empowerment and Connection
Wayne’s parting advice is simple: Everybody grow your own and stay high. There’s something deeply rewarding about cultivating your own cannabis, whether it’s a single plant on a windowsill or a full backyard garden.
Getting Started:
- Check local laws. Make sure home cultivation is legal in your area.
- Start small. Even one plant can yield a meaningful harvest.
- Explore new genetics. Seek out seeds with unique cannabinoid profiles, CBG, THC-V, and beyond.
My Grower’s Tip:
- Join a community. Online forums and local clubs are invaluable for troubleshooting and sharing the joys (and challenges) of home growing.
That’s it for this week friends. Please email me any questions, comments, pictures of your creations or anything else, I love hearing from listeners! Direct messages to stayhigh@bitemepodcast.com, or leave a voice message on the podcast hotline.
You can also support the show by subscribing, sharing episodes, leaving a review or buying me a cookie! Whatever way you choose, I’m grateful that you’re listening.
Stay high,
Margaret
Timestamps for Cannabis Confessions
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:05)
Margaret introduces the podcast, the “Cannabis Confessions” segment, and guest Wayne.
Wayne’s Background & Cannabis Legalization (00:01:56)
Wayne shares where he lives, cannabis legality in New York, and his introduction.
Wayne’s First Cannabis Consumption Experience (00:03:55)
Wayne recounts his first time using cannabis in 1980 with a friend.
Early Cannabis Memories & Parental Attitudes (00:05:23)
Wayne recalls winning a marijuana poster in the 1970s and his parents’ reaction.
Evolving Relationship with Cannabis Consumption (00:06:18)
Wayne discusses how work and drug testing affected his cannabis use over the years.
High School & Work-Life Balance (00:07:48)
Wayne explains quitting cannabis in high school due to a demanding job.
Microdosing and Daily Routine (00:08:15)
Wayne describes learning to microdose and manage his tolerance for daily use.
Edibles, Alcohol, and Social Settings (00:09:09)
Wayne talks about preferring edibles over alcohol and making small cookies for microdosing.
Dispensaries and Home Growing (00:10:39)
Wayne shares he’s never visited a dispensary, preferring to grow his own cannabis.
Preferred Consumption Methods (00:12:18)
Wayne’s favorite method is edibles, but he occasionally smokes using a one-hitter.
Cannabis for Pain and Exercise (00:13:11)
Wayne uses cannabis for joint and hip pain, and microdoses before workouts for focus.
Homemade Edibles and Potency (00:14:15)
Wayne discusses making cookies with homegrown cannabis and checking cannabinoid content.
Cannabis and Topicals (00:15:43)
Wayne occasionally uses infused oils as topicals for pain relief.
Dispelling Cannabis Stereotypes (00:16:57)
Wayne addresses the myth that all cannabis users are lazy or “brain dead.”
Cannabis and Social Circles (00:22:24)
Wayne notes he’s often the only cannabis user among friends and family.
Family and Cannabis Sharing (00:24:27)
Wayne’s son helps him source cannabis, but Wayne can’t distinguish flavor profiles.
Vaporizing and Chasing Terpenes (00:25:10)
Wayne and Margaret discuss vaporizing cannabis and preserving terpenes in edibles.
First Attempt at Edibles (00:27:02)
Wayne describes making his first pot brownies in the 1980s by mixing ground cannabis into batter.
Cannabis Cookbooks and Cooking for One (00:29:28)
Wayne and Margaret talk about the challenge of making infused meals when only one person consumes.
Exploring New Cannabinoids (00:30:41)
Discussion about CBG, THC-V, and the evolving market for new cannabinoids.
Growing Cannabis from Seed (00:32:30)
Wayne shares experiences and frustrations with growing cannabis from seeds.
Surprising Facts About Wayne (00:33:40)
Wayne reveals he appears straight-laced and doesn’t fit the typical cannabis user stereotype.
Closing Thoughts and Farewell (00:34:34)
Wayne encourages listeners to grow their own cannabis; Margaret wraps up the episode.
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