Coffee & Cannabis Podcast

University of Colorado Regent Wanda James Announces Run for Congress on Coffee & Cannabis Podcast

Creator & Executive Producer: Dr. Alyza Brevard-Rodriguez Producer: Jalen Thomas Editor: Jalen Thomas ✨ New to C&C? Start here: @Coffeecannabis.podcast In Episode 8 — (Ep 75) of Coffee & Cannabis, Dr. Beast and political strategist Gretchen Gailey close out the political series with none other than the legendary Wanda James — dispensary owner, cannabis pioneer, and now hopeful future Congresswoman. Filmed LIVE at NECANN in Atlantic City, this episode captures a groundbreaking moment as Wanda officially announces her run for Congress right here on Coffee & Cannabis. 🇺🇸  She opens up about sustaining as a minority operator for over 15 years, the importance of generational wealth and license transferring, and why she can’t understand why politicians are still fumbling cannabis policy. Wanda doesn’t hold back — from sharing her challenges as the only Black Regent at the University of Colorado, to calling out her opponent Diana DeGette, to breaking down the failures in governance that keep communities criminalized and patients underserved. Dr. Beast and Gretchen keep the energy sharp and candid, mixing in humor, hard truths, and gratitude for Wanda’s trailblazing leadership. This season finale is more than a conversation — it’s a call to action. Wanda James reminds us what it means to fight for our plant, our people, and our future 🌱💪 Politics, pot, policy — and yes, even academia — all collide in this unforgettable closer. ☕🌿 📍 Filming: NECANN, Atlantic City 📌 Full episode premieres today, September 29, 2025 at 11AM