Episode 188: From Leafly to High Times: David Downs on Cannabis, Terps & the Future of Weed

Episode 188: From Leafly to High Times: David Downs on Cannabis, Terps & the Future of Weed

This week, JP sits down with David Downs, award-winning cannabis journalist, bestselling author, and one of the most respected voices in the industry. With bylines at Leafly, High Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, Rolling Stone, WIRED, and many more, David has spent years documenting the evolution of cannabis culture, legalization, and genetics.   After decades of covering the plant, David has built what feels like an encyclopedia of cannabis knowledge. From legendary breeders and iconic strains to terpene profiles and the true origins of today’s most sought-after genetics, this conversation is packed with insights for growers, smokers, and cannabis enthusiasts alike. 💨 In this episode, we get into: David’s journey from Leafly and High Times to becoming one of cannabis’ most respected journalists The evolution of cannabis media and legalization Why THC percentages don’t tell the whole story The importance of terpenes and what consumers should really be paying attention to Mushroom potency testing and the groundbreaking work being done by mushroom communities in Oakland Legendary breeders, genetics, and the stories behind today’s most popular strains Why preserving cannabis history matters 🧠 When two cannabis journalists sit down together, the conversation goes deep. This episode is full of stories, laughs, history, and real education from someone who’s helped document the modern cannabis movement from the very beginning. ⸻ Y’all know what time it is… Roll em fat, torch your rigs, pack your bongs, bag up some work, water your plants, do what you gotta do because we’re about to take this journey with David Downs! ✌🏼❤️🍕 JP ⸻ 🔥 Big up my sponsors! @grovebags @buckmountaincannabis @cadre.verde @bambinas.sac @millspaysthebillsamsterdam @flowermillusa @dr.dabber Get a DISCOUNT at http://www.grovebags.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA Grab a Flower Mill with the Good PizzZa discount: https://www.flowermillusa.com/discount/GOODPIZZZA?ref=GOODPIZZZA Promo Code: GOODPIZZZA ⸻ 💨 Dr Dabber Discount http://www.drdabber.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA15 ⸻ 🍕 GRAB SOME SWAG http://www.goodpizzza.com #GoodPizzZaPodcast #DavidDowns #Leafly #HighTimes #CannabisPodcast #CannabisCulture #Terpenes #CannabisGenetics #THC #Mushrooms #CannabisJournalism #WeedCulture #CannabisEducation #CannabisHistory #NJNYC Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/goodpizzza] Shop Merch: goodpizzza.com [https://goodpizzza.com] Instagram: @ [https://instagram.com/good.p1zzza]_goodpizzza_ Instagram: @goodpizzzapodcast [https://instagram.com/goodpizzzapodcast] Show some love: patreon.com/goodpizzza [https://patreon.com/goodpizzza]

Episode 187: How Umami Seed Co Is Shaping the Future of Cannabis Genetics 🌎🧬 | Good PizzZa Podcast

This week, JP sits down with Harry and Chase from Umami Seed Co, one of the most respected names in modern cannabis breeding. Known for their relentless pursuit of flavor, elite genetics, and innovative breeding projects, Umami has become a global force in cannabis. From legendary pheno hunts to cutting-edge tissue culture programs, they’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in modern cannabis cultivation. One of the most fascinating parts of this conversation is Umami’s exclusive Terp Tester Program—a worldwide network of over 250 growers helping test genetics in every environment imaginable. Every strain is distributed under a coded name and isn’t officially released until growers submit detailed grow logs and feedback. With over 2,000 applications during the last round of testing, the demand to be part of the program continues to grow. 💨 In this episode we get into: The story behind Umami Seed Co. Building one of the most respected breeding programs in cannabis The worldwide Terp Tester Program How genetics are tested before public release Tissue culture and preserving cannabis genetics The future of cannabis breeding The upcoming Strawberry Banana Zkittlez (SBZ) collaboration with DNA Genetics New SBZ crosses and exclusive giveaways Global cannabis expansion and international markets Medical GMP cannabis production Bringing premium genetics to growers around the world 🧬 We also discuss Umami’s tissue culture program, which has been operating for over a decade and now houses their entire genetic library. Through partnerships spanning Canada, Germany, Australia, Israel, and Thailand, Umami is helping move elite cannabis genetics around the globe in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. 🌎 Looking ahead, Umami is preparing for a massive global push, including GMP flower production through their Australian partners and efforts to become one of the first companies to introduce medical-grade GMP rosin into European markets. If you’re interested in genetics, breeding, cultivation, tissue culture, or where cannabis is heading next, this episode is packed with gems. ⸻ 🎁 UMAMI TERP TESTER PROGRAM Think you’ve got what it takes? Umami’s Terp Tester Program consists of more than 250 growers worldwide helping evaluate new genetics in every environment possible. ✅ Anonymous coded strains ✅ Grow logs required ✅ Real-world testing data ✅ Two tester rounds per year The last round received over 2,000 applications. ⸻ Y’all know what time it is… Roll em fat, torch your rigs, pack your bongs, bag up some work, water your plants, do what you gotta do because we’re about to take this journey with Harry and Chase from Umami Seed Co.! ✌🏼❤️🍕 JP ⸻ 🔥 Big up my sponsors! @grovebags @buckmountaincannabis @cadre.verde @bambinas.sac @millspaysthebillsamsterdam @flowermillusa @dr.dabber Get a DISCOUNT at http://www.grovebags.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA Grab a Flower Mill with the Good PizzZa discount: https://www.flowermillusa.com/discount/GOODPIZZZA?ref=GOODPIZZZA Promo Code: GOODPIZZZA ⸻ 💨 Dr Dabber Discount http://www.drdabber.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA15 ⸻ 🍕 GRAB SOME SWAG http://www.goodpizzza.com ⸻ This page in conversation will be dedicated to the GoodPizzzaPodcast autumn notes, concepts, theories, strategies, etc. so tune in. ⸻ #GoodPizzZaPodcast #UmamiSeedCo #CannabisGenetics #TerpTester #PhenoHunt #TissueCulture #DNAGenetics #StrawberryBananaZkittlez #CannabisBreeding #CannabisPodcast #Growers #CannabisCulture #MedicalCannabis #CannabisIndustry #CannabisSeeds Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/goodpizzza] Shop Merch: goodpizzza.com [https://goodpizzza.com] Instagram: @ [https://instagram.com/good.p1zzza]_goodpizzza_ Instagram: @goodpizzzapodcast [https://instagram.com/goodpizzzapodcast] Show some love: patreon.com/goodpizzza [https://patreon.com/goodpizzza]

Episode 186: Episode 186: Cannabis Before Legalization: Sal from Casa Flor Tells All | Good PizzZa Podcast

This week, JP sits down with Sal from Casa Flor, a Northern California cultivator whose roots in the cannabis game stretch back more than 20 years—long before legalization changed the landscape. Born into a multigenerational growing family, Sal has spent decades preserving the culture, genetics, and traditions that helped build California cannabis. From underground gardens before Prop 215 to becoming one of the most respected names in the legal market, his journey is a true legacy story. 💨 In this episode, we get into: Growing cannabis before legalization Life in Northern California’s legacy market The transition from underground to legal cannabis Building the Casa Flor brand Proprietary genetics and breeding projects Collaborations with Huckleberry Hill Farms Working with Octane Exotics Preserving cannabis culture while pushing the industry forward 🧠 This episode is a history lesson, a grower’s story, and a glimpse into the future of legacy cannabis—all rolled into one. ⸻ Y’all know what time it is… Roll em fat, torch your rigs, pack your bongs, bag up some work, water your plants, do what you gotta do because we’re about to take this journey with Sal from Casa Flor! ✌🏼❤️🍕 JP ⸻ 🔥 Big up my sponsors! @grovebags @buckmountaincannabis @cadre.verde @bambinas.sac @millspaysthebillsamsterdam @flowermillusa @dr.dabber Get a DISCOUNT at http://www.grovebags.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA Grab a Flower Mill with the Good PizzZa discount: https://www.flowermillusa.com/discount/GOODPIZZZA?ref=GOODPIZZZA Promo Code: GOODPIZZZA ⸻ 💨 Dr Dabber Discount http://www.drdabber.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA15 ⸻ 🍕 GRAB SOME SWAG http://www.goodpizzza.com ⸻ This page in conversation will be dedicated to the GoodPizzzaPodcast autumn notes, concepts, theories, strategies, etc. so tune in. ⸻ #GoodPizzZaPodcast #CasaFlor #CannabisBeforeLegalization #LegacyCannabis #Prop215 #NorthernCaliforniaCannabis #CannabisPodcast #CannabisGenetics #HuckleberryHillFarms #OctaneExotics #CannabisCulture #WeedCulture #CaliforniaCannabis #Growers #NJNYC Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/goodpizzza] Shop Merch: goodpizzza.com [https://goodpizzza.com] Instagram: @ [https://instagram.com/good.p1zzza]_goodpizzza_ Instagram: @goodpizzzapodcast [https://instagram.com/goodpizzzapodcast] Show some love: patreon.com/goodpizzza [https://patreon.com/goodpizzza]

Episode 185: The Rise of Zooted Inc. 🌿 Staten Island’s Cannabis Movement | Good PizzZa Podcast

This week, JP sits down with Sal from Zooted Inc., one of the driving forces behind the new generation of cannabis brands putting Staten Island on the map. Alongside a tight-knit group of cultivators, breeders, and entrepreneurs, Sal and the Staten Island crew have been making serious noise throughout New York’s cannabis community. Known for their unique flavors, dedication to pheno hunting, and commitment to quality, they’re helping shape the future of East Coast cannabis culture. We linked up at the legendary Torches Dispensary, a former cigar lounge turned cannabis speakeasy located in the heart of Times Square. Once frequented by some of New York City’s biggest names, the setting couldn’t have been more perfect for a classic New York conversation. 💨 In this episode, we get into: The rise of Zooted Inc. Staten Island’s growing influence on the NY cannabis scene Pheno hunting and building unique flavors Sal’s journey between New York and Florida The challenges and opportunities in today’s cannabis market Building a brand with authenticity and staying true to your roots 🧠 Sal is one of the real ones. Hard-working, humble, and focused on the long game. If the future of New York cannabis is being built by people like him, Staten Island has a lot to be proud of. ⸻ Y’all know what time it is… Roll em fat, torch your rigs, pack your bongs, bag up some work, water your plants, do what you gotta do because we’re about to take this journey with Sal from Zooted Inc.! ✌🏼❤️🍕 JP ⸻ 🔥 Big up my sponsors! @grovebags @buckmountaincannabis @cadre.verde @bambinas.sac @millspaysthebillsamsterdam @flowermillusa @dr.dabber Get a DISCOUNT at http://www.grovebags.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA Grab a Flower Mill with the Good PizzZa discount: https://www.flowermillusa.com/discount/GOODPIZZZA?ref=GOODPIZZZA Promo Code: GOODPIZZZA ⸻ 💨 Dr Dabber Discount http://www.drdabber.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA15 ⸻ 🍕 GRAB SOME SWAG http://www.goodpizzza.com ⸻ This page in conversation will be dedicated to the GoodPizzzaPodcast autumn notes, concepts, theories, strategies, etc. so tune in. #GoodPizzZaPodcast #ZootedInc #SalZooted #StatenIsland #NewYorkCannabis #CannabisPodcast #PhenoHunting #CannabisCulture #NYCannabis #EastCoastCannabis #TorchesDispensary #TimesSquare #WeedCulture #CannabisCommunity #NJNYC Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/goodpizzza] Shop Merch: goodpizzza.com [https://goodpizzza.com] Instagram: @ [https://instagram.com/good.p1zzza]_goodpizzza_ Instagram: @goodpizzzapodcast [https://instagram.com/goodpizzzapodcast] Show some love: patreon.com/goodpizzza [https://patreon.com/goodpizzza]

Episode 164: He Was There When Nas Recorded Illmatic… And Ran NYC’s Weed Game | Old Man Dave

This week, JP sits down with Old Man Dave, one of the true OGs of New York City cannabis culture. Now in his 80s, Dave has lived a life most people only hear about in stories. From moving weight during the golden era of NYC cannabis to navigating the ups and downs that came with it, Dave has seen it all. Through multiple chapters of life, relationships, business ventures, and run-ins with the law, Dave remained connected to the culture that helped shape New York. 🎵 With deep ties to the music industry, Dave was a regular around the legendary D&D Studios, rubbing shoulders with icons like DJ Premier and witnessing history firsthand. He even found himself in the studio while Nas was recording Illmatic, one of the most influential hip-hop albums of all time. 💨 In this episode we get into: Growing up in New York City The early cannabis scene before legalization Moving serious weight during the underground era Celebrity clientele and music industry connections D&D Studios and witnessing the creation of Illmatic Lessons learned from a lifetime of wins and losses Why preserving these stories matters 🧠 This episode is bigger than cannabis. It’s about documenting history before it’s gone. The stories, experiences, and lessons from the generation that helped build the culture deserve to be heard. This one’s for the OGs. ⸻ Y’all know what time it is… Roll ’em fat, torch your rigs, pack your bongs, bag up some work, water your plants — do what you gotta do… because we’re about to take this journey with Old Man Dave! ✌🏼❤️🍕 JP ⸻ 🔥 Big up my sponsors! @grovebags @buckmountaincannabis @cadre.verde @bambinas.sac @millspaysthebillsamsterdam @flowermillusa @dr.dabber 💸 Get a DISCOUNT at: www.grovebags.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA 🌿 Grab a Flower Mill with the Good PizzZa discount: https://www.flowermillusa.com/discount/GOODPIZZZA?ref=GOODPIZZZA Promo Code: GOODPIZZZA ⸻ 💨 Dr Dabber Discount www.drdabber.com PROMO CODE: GOODPIZZZA15 🍕 GRAB SOME SWAG www.goodpizzza.com #GoodPizzZaPodcast #OldManDave #Nas #Illmatic #DNDStudios #DJPremier #NYCHipHop #CannabisCulture #LegacyCannabis #WeedPodcast #HipHopHistory #NewYorkStories #OGStories #CannabisCommunity #NJNYC Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/goodpizzza] Shop Merch: goodpizzza.com [https://goodpizzza.com] Instagram: @ [https://instagram.com/good.p1zzza]_goodpizzza_ Instagram: @goodpizzzapodcast [https://instagram.com/goodpizzzapodcast] Show some love: patreon.com/goodpizzza [https://patreon.com/goodpizzza]