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

Episode 191: Freddie Bigg Returns! Part 3 🌍 | SF Canna, Planta & the Future of Cannabis

Freddie Bigg built from Bay Area middleman to cultivation partner. Here is what that journey actually cost and what it paid. Freddie Bigg started as a middleman in the pre-legal Bay Area market and made the call at exactly the right time: when recreational Cannabis launched, he partnered with SF Canna in 2019 and Planta in 2023, moving from distributor to cultivator. This is his third appearance on Good PizzZa Podcast, and the game has changed dramatically since the first one. In this conversation, Freddie breaks down why the "go direct to the farm" advice circulating online is getting people's heads knocked off on price, how the race to the bottom in Cannabis pricing destroys the value of product that operators should be protecting, and what it actually means to have relationships versus thinking you have them. He runs through the current Planta strain menu including Biscotti, Gelato 41, Gelonade, Coffin Candy, 11 Coffins, Red Hots, and the Zangria cross, and makes the case that flavor chasing in competition judging has quietly undercut the thing 100 percent of smokers actually want: to get high. The Toad conversation hits hard here because Freddie had early access, posted it, watched his account get deleted from the response, and has it in production at both operations. The macro conversation is where this episode gets interesting for anyone building a Cannabis brand right now. Freddie draws the Napa Valley comparison for Northern California sun-grown Cannabis once interstate commerce opens, explains how the first wave of legalization sent operators into what he calls the shores of Normandy, and traces why the operators still standing are mostly the ones who kept it solid from the beginning. The Static hash export market and the Doja Pak Germany story add an international layer that most California-focused conversations skip entirely. Freddie Bigg is one of the people in this industry who can back up everything he says with receipts. JP and Freddie have been building together since episode one of this show. This one is for the operators, the builders, and anyone who wants to know what the game actually looks like from inside it. 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 Freddie Bigg! ✌🏼❤️🍕 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 GoodPizzZa Podcast autumn notes, concepts, theories, strategies, etc. so tune in. ⸻ Freddie Bigg, Freddie Bigg Cannabis, SF Canna, Planta Cannabis, Good PizzZa Podcast, JP Good PizzZa, Bay Area Cannabis operator, Cannabis middleman vs direct farm, The Toad strain, The Toad Cannabis wave, Zkittlez strain California, Gelato 41, Gelonade, Biscotti strain, Cannabis shakeout legacy operators, Cannabis race to the bottom pricing, California Cannabis rec market 2024, Preferred Gardens Cannabis, Cannabiotix CBX, Cannabis flavor chasing potency debate, Northern California Cannabis terroir, Doja Pak Germany Cannabis, Cannabis interstate commerce future, Static hash Europe export, Cannabis brand strain menu, how to store Cannabis long term, Grove bags Cannabis storage, SF Canna cultivation Bay Area, Backpackboyz Lemon Cherry Gelato, Cannabis entrepreneur business podcast 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 190: The Story Behind GUZ 🌿 | B Eazy, Surefire & Elusive Reveal How It All Started

Some strains come and go… GUZ changed the conversation. This week, JP sits down with B Eazy (The Brand), Surefire (the breeder), and Elusive (the grower) for the untold story behind one of the most talked-about genetics in cannabis today. From the original breeding project to the final pheno selection, this episode breaks down exactly how GUZ went from a hunted phenotype to one of the hottest strains in the game. Surefire explains the breeding process, B Eazy shares why he knew GUZ was special from the beginning, and Elusive talks about the dedication it takes to exclusively cultivate one of the industry’s most in-demand flowers. We also dive into how these three built their relationship, the importance of trust between breeders, growers, and brands, and what it really takes to create a strain that stands the test of time. 💨 In this episode, we get into: * 🌿 The complete origin story of GUZ * How Surefire bred one of today’s most sought-after genetics * Why B Eazy selected GUZ and built a brand around it * How Elusive became the exclusive grower behind the movement * The art of pheno hunting and selecting winning genetics * Building a successful cannabis brand through collaboration * Why quality and consistency always win * The future of GUZ and what’s next for the team 🧠 This is more than the story of a strain—it’s the story of what happens when an elite breeder, a visionary brand, and a world-class grower come together to build something special. If you’re into cannabis genetics, breeding, cultivation, pheno hunting, and the stories behind today’s most influential strains, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. ⸻ 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 B Eazy, Surefire & Elusive! ✌🏼❤️🍕 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 ⸻ This page in conversation will be dedicated to the GoodPizzZa Podcast autumn notes, concepts, theories, strategies, etc. so tune in. #GoodPizzZaPodcast #GUZ #BEazy #Surefire #Elusive #CannabisPodcast #CannabisGenetics #PhenoHunting #CannabisBreeding #PremiumFlower #ExoticGenetics #WeedCulture #CannabisCulture #Growers #Breeders 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 189: Return of the Alien Part 3 | How Alien Labs Stays on Top While Everyone Else Falls Off

The Alien has landed… again. 👽 This week, JP welcomes back Ted from Alien Labs for his third appearance on the Good PizzZa Podcast. Every time Ted pulls up, the conversation gets deeper—and this episode is no exception. From Japan to Berlin, we catch up on everything happening in the global cannabis scene and why Alien Labs continues to lead the conversation while so many once-hyped legacy recreational brands have struggled to stay relevant. Ted has always had his finger on the pulse of the industry. Whether it’s identifying the next wave of genetics, understanding shifting consumer trends, or creating products that true heads appreciate, Alien Labs continues to set the standard for premium cannabis. 💨 In this episode, we get into: 👽 The Return of the Alien… Part 3 Why Alien Labs continues to thrive while other brands fade away Cannabis culture and emerging markets in Japan and Berlin Cool things to do in Japan! The latest trends in genetics, terpenes, and premium flower How Alien Labs stays ahead through innovation and authenticity The current state of the cannabis industry Branding, culture, and building a legacy that lasts Where cannabis is headed next and what consumers should expect 🧠 Ted is one of the industry’s true innovators. Every time we sit down, he drops valuable jewels on cannabis, business, branding, and culture. Whether you’re a grower, breeder, brand owner, or simply a fan of great flower, there’s something in this conversation for everyone. If you’ve followed The Return of the Alien series from the beginning, you already know this is one you don’t want to miss. ⸻ 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 Ted from Alien Labs! ✌🏼❤️🍕 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 GoodPizzZa Podcast autumn notes, concepts, theories, strategies, and everything we’re building as we continue documenting the culture. ⸻ #GoodPizzZaPodcast #AlienLabs #TedAlienLabs #TheReturnOfTheAlien #CannabisPodcast #CannabisCulture #CannabisIndustry #CannabisGenetics #PremiumCannabis #LegacyCannabis #CannabisBusiness #ExoticGenetics #Terpenes #CaliforniaCannabis #WeedCulture 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 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]