How Do You Actually Buy Cannabis?

This has been a SUPER exciting week at Cali Sober Mom!

Attending Cannabis Fest this weekend was more incredible than I expected. The event broke the usual stereotypes, offering a welcoming space with community-driven vendors, live bands, great food, and an outdoor vibe that felt perfect for families.

I couldn’t help but think how much my kids would have enjoyed it—music, open space, and food they’d love. It’s frustrating that events like this, which are more family-friendly than some places where alcohol is served, have to be 21+.

I was also moved by the gratitude from others in the movement. One person shared how they initially doubted cannabis but reconsidered after following my content. Knowing my work is helping others feel safe discussing and exploring cannabis for wellness means the world to me.

Thank you, Indigo, for organizing such an incredible event. You did it for the community, and we are all grateful.

On this week’s podcast episode, Britney and I dove into the real-life ups and downs of launching a business. We talked about the importance of learning through trial and error and how pushing past fear is key to finding success.

We also did a deep dive into Cannabis 101, exploring the different ways of consuming cannabis and how each one works differently for different people. We shared tips on navigating the cannabis market, from buying at dispensaries to shopping through online sellers. (So basically, you won’t want to miss it!)

And here’s something exciting: we’re working on a state-by-state cannabis regulation guide to help you know exactly what your state allows so you can make more informed choices!

OH—and our YouTube review series is coming back! (Woo Hoo!)

Make sure to subscribe to Cali Sober Mom on YouTube to stay up to date with our latest reviews. We know the market is packed with products, and we’re here to give you our honest, no-BS opinions to help you choose the best options for you.

Stay tuned for more updates and exciting things to come!

-Monica

“Where do you buy your cannabis products?”

Everywhere and nowhere in particular, all at the same time!

As we talked about on the podcast, there are so many ways to consume cannabis—whether it’s smoking flower, enjoying edibles, sipping beverages, or more—and just as many ways to buy it.

Honestly, it all depends on where you live. Each state has different regulations, which can make things confusing fast. (Don’t worry; we’ve got a guide coming soon to break it all down for you!)

Each state falls into one of three categories: medical cannabis, recreational cannabis, or hemp cannabis. In Louisiana, for example, I can easily get a medical cannabis card (check Groupon, seriously, it’s super easy), but recreational cannabis isn’t an option here yet.

Instead, most of the edibles and beverages I enjoy are federally legal because they’re hemp-derived. That said, even hemp products are subject to state-specific regulations.

Still confused? Yeah, me too! It can be a lot to wrap your head around.

The key takeaway is this: find a place, brand, and product you trust. Our upcoming state-by-state guide will help you figure out what’s legal in your area and where to get your hands on the products that work for you.

(P.S. Do you have a question you’d like answered here? Reply to this email, and we’ll include it in a future edition!)

What We’re Drinking: Throwback Edition - WYNK

It’s throwback time! This week, I’m revisiting one of my very first video reviews: the amazing brand WYNK.

I’ve linked the video above if you’re up for some early-day fun—don’t judge too hard! 😅

WYNK has been with me since day one of my journey into the world of cannabis. I’ve had the pleasure of interacting with their entire team, from connecting with their founder on LinkedIn to deeper virtual conversations with their Brand Manager, and even meeting the wonderful Lauren in person at the Hemp Beverage Festival in Minneapolis.

This is a brand that has continually impressed me with its dedication, transparency, and innovation. So, in the spirit of kicking off my YouTube review series again, let’s raise a glass to WYNK and revisit this classic.

Interested in trying WYNK for yourself? Check out their website here.

Cheers to the journey and the amazing people I’ve met along the way! 🥂

Education Spotlight: The Different Types of Cannabis Regulations

Earlier on, we discussed that some states (like Louisiana) don’t have access to “recreational” cannabis. But, we can still use hemp-derived products or apply to get a medical marijuana card.

This is understandably a bit confusing. Below, let’s break down the three types of cannabis, how to get them, and where to buy them:

#1: Medical Cannabis

A doctor prescribes medical cannabis to treat specific health conditions, like chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and more. You can find the exact qualifiers here, though they differ depending on what state you’re in!

You need a medical cannabis card from a licensed doctor to buy it legally. Once you get yours, you can go to dispensaries. Dispensaries offer a variety of products like oils, edibles, and flower, with different “strains” (a topic for another day) and potency levels.

If you’re confused about what product would best suit your needs, don’t fret! The “budtender” at your dispensary location will likely be happy to help.

#2: Recreational Cannabis

Recreational cannabis is available to adults (21+) for personal enjoyment—no medical reason needed! If you’re in a state where it’s legal, all you need is an ID to prove your age.

Much like medical dispensaries, licensed dispensaries in recreational states will offer products like pre-rolled joints, edibles, vapes, etc.

The products themselves, however, aren’t much different than their medicinal counterparts. The only difference would be that recreational dispensaries tend to make their products a bit more “fun” or eye-catching as a marketing tool.

#3: Hemp-Derived Cannabis

Hemp-derived products come from the hemp plant, which contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. This category includes CBD and Delta-8 THC.

Unlike CBD, Delta-8 can produce a high, but it’s generally milder than Delta-9 THC found in traditional cannabis.

This type of cannabis is federally legal due to the 2018 Farm Bill; hemp-derived products can be sold across the U.S. without a prescription. However, some states have placed their own restrictions on Delta-8.

That said, these products aren’t always as well-regulated as what you’ll find in a dispensary. Be cautious before purchasing Delta-8 products from companies that have few (or negative) reviews.

Products with a Purpose: Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana

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I recently had the opportunity to volunteer with the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL), and it was truly eye-opening.

We moved nearly 50,000 pounds of oyster shells to help rebuild and restore natural barriers in South Louisiana—barriers that have been destroyed by man-made activities over generations.

It’s heartbreaking to see how these vital communities and ecosystems are being pushed to the brink of collapse. Coastal erosion and habitat loss are threatening not only the environment but also the way of life for many who’ve lived in these areas for generations.

It’s frustrating to be cleaning up problems created long ago, but it’s also a reminder of how important it is to act now.

If you want to get involved or support the cause, here’s more information on how you can help:

If you want to get more involved - send me a message or follow my soon to launch advocacy corner on Youtube!

Healing Out Loud - so others don’t have to

How my husband stayed with me and chose to marry me is still a mystery, but I know we needed each other… especially me needing him. He’s the grounding force in my life.

Sure, I’m always trying to push him outside his comfort zone, but there’s peace in knowing he’s the rock in our relationship. His motto has always been, “As long as the good outweighs the bad, we’re good.” Seriously, that was the goalpost he gave me.

Now, let me tell you about one of our early dates—our third or fourth, to be exact—and how it became an epic disaster on my end. My husband lovingly calls it “street food night.”

Here’s the (embarrassing) summary:

We went out with friends, and I drank way too much without eating enough. I hit blackout mode, stumbling and falling everywhere. I kept insisting I needed food, and we came across a street vendor serving something that, according to my husband, looked far from safe to eat. But I was all in.

He managed to pry the food away from me before I could make myself even sicker and got me home, despite me falling about 20 times on the way back to my apartment. He later admitted he seriously considered leaving me and never looking back.

But something told him to stay and make sure I was okay (hello, guardian angel). After we talked it out the next day, he decided to give me another chance.

To this day, the phrase “street food” makes me turn bright red with embarrassment, but I’m beyond grateful that I found someone so patient and understanding.

I couldn’t be luckier.

(P.S. Do you have a story you’d like to share? Reply to this email, and we’ll include it in a future edition!)

Don’t Miss Out On EVEN MORE Cali Sober Content:

Aside from my usual content, I’ve had the pleasure of appearing on some incredible blogs and podcasts! Check them out for a more in-depth look at my journey: