Welcome to Travel Tuesday, a proud segment of the Beard Bros Media Network where culture intersects with industry. I’m your host, Brian Applegarth. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just beginning to explore the vast world of cannabis travel and tourism, this podcast is your source for insights, trends, and industry stories.
Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the storytellers shaping mainstream understanding of cannabis culture, hospitality, and travel. Joining us are representatives from some of the most influential media outlets in the space: Fat Nugs Magazine, GreenState, and Sarah Payan of Planted with Sarah Payan. These platforms are vital in guiding the direction of the cannabis and hemp industries—especially as they intertwine with travel, wellness, and the visitor economy.
Meet the Media Voices
Jessica from Fat Nugs Magazine: An independent publication dedicated to elevating cannabis craft, legacy culture, and community stories. Jessica’s background in travel and tourism PR informs her passion for destigmatizing cannabis travel, encouraging destinations to embrace their cannabis offerings, and highlighting the global opportunities for cannabis tourism.
Rachelle from GreenState: A mainstream media platform owned by Hearst Newspapers, GreenState aims to deliver credible, consumer-forward cannabis journalism. Rachelle’s decade of experience as a cannabis journalist helps bridge cannabis culture with education, travel, and normalization efforts.
Sarah Payan: Host of Planted with Sarah Payon, an award-winning podcast focused on advocacy, education, and industry dialogue. Sarah’s work emphasizes the importance of responsible adult use, medical applications, and how cannabis can be a bridge to cultural understanding and wellness.
Exploring Cannabis Travel and Destinations
Jessica kicks off by discussing Fat Nugs’ recent issue centered entirely on destinations, travel, and tourism. She highlights the importance of destinations leaning into their cannabis assets and the need to normalize cannabis travel, especially in regions where the topic remains taboo. Jessica emphasizes that cannabis and travel are natural partners—people love to combine their love of exploration with their love of cannabis, breaking away from outdated “just say no” mindsets.
The international focus of their latest issue was particularly impactful. It showcased cannabis-friendly destinations across Canada, Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean, Thailand, and beyond—highlighting a growing global landscape where travelers can openly enjoy cannabis without fear of stigma.
Rachelle adds that her platform is committed to normalizing cannabis through storytelling and education. She discusses the evolution of cannabis markets in California and Minnesota, noting how different regions approach hemp and cannabis experience economies. In Minnesota, for instance, THC-infused low-dose beverages and micro-dosed products are thriving, while California has pioneered lounges and immersive experiences. Rochelle advocates for models that balance safety, education, and accessibility—such as allowing cannabis in social settings without stigma.
Sarah emphasizes the importance of integrating medical and wellness narratives into cannabis tourism. She advocates for educating consumers about non-euphoric, health-promoting use, and expanding conversations around recreational and medicinal applications. Sarah also highlights the significance of responsible consumption, community outreach, and the potential of cannabis to foster connection and cultural understanding globally.
The Role of Media in Shaping Cannabis Culture
Our panelists agree that media plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and advancing industry growth. Campaigns like “I’m High Right Now” have sparked debate—many see it as a groundbreaking normalization effort, while others worry about misconceptions. Jessica praises the campaign’s clever messaging, especially as it features diverse demographics, including seniors, to challenge stereotypes.
Rachelle notes that effective messaging must balance fun, responsible use with education about safety and legal considerations. Sarah stresses the need to move beyond stereotypes, emphasizing cannabis as a wellness tool and part of a broader cultural landscape. The goal is to normalize cannabis as a natural, accessible part of everyday life—whether for recreation, health, or cultural connection.
The Future of Cannabis Tourism
Looking ahead, the industry is ripe with opportunities. Jessica envisions more focus on regional and legacy genetics, highlighting how different areas produce unique strains reflective of their terroir. She’s excited about upcoming stories on heirloom genetics like Panama Red and the importance of preserving craft culture.
Rachelle sees international exploration as a key theme—covering cannabis tourism in Iceland, Europe, and beyond. She emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism, including how to be a good cannabis tourist, and the potential for destinations to craft immersive, respectful experiences.
Sarah advocates for expanding cannabis education and medical narratives within tourism. She envisions a future where cannabis experiences are integrated into wellness retreats, medical tourism, and cultural explorations—breaking down stigma and fostering responsible, informed consumption.
Closing Thoughts
All three media voices reinforce a shared vision: cannabis and travel are intertwined in a way that can promote cultural understanding, economic growth, and personal well-being. They encourage industry stakeholders to tell authentic stories, preserve legacy genetics, and develop experiences that are inclusive, responsible, and innovative.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of Travel Tuesday. Stay tuned for more industry insights, stories, and trends. Until next time, this is Beard Bros Media, where culture meets industry. Peace out.
