In this episode of Beyond Substance, hosts Dean Babcock and Jodi Miller explore the complex and often confusing conversation surrounding marijuana use.

Joined first by psychiatrist and geriatric specialist Dr. John Wernert, the discussion examines the history of cannabis regulation, what current research tells us about safety and brain development, and why age and frequency of use matter.

The episode then shifts to two lived-experience stories. "Miles" reflects on starting marijuana use in high school, moving to Colorado where it was legal, and later working in the cannabis industry before stepping away. "David," now substance-free for nearly sixteen years, shares how marijuana and alcohol functioned as self-medication and why recovery ultimately meant choosing clarity over intoxication.

Together, these perspectives offer a balanced and thoughtful look at marijuana’s risks, realities, and impact across a lifetime.

Segment 1: Professional Interview Summary
Dean speaks with Dr. John Wernert, a psychiatrist and geriatrician with more than four decades of experience in clinical care and behavioral health integration. Dr. Wernert explains how cannabis has evolved from a historically criminalized substance to one that is now legal for medical or recreational use in many states, while still remaining federally classified as a Schedule I substance. The conversation addresses common misconceptions about marijuana safety, the differences between THC and CBD, and the importance of understanding the developing brain. Dr. Wernert highlights research showing that younger individuals may be more vulnerable to cognitive and psychiatric risks, particularly with frequent or high-potency use. He also discusses the growing use of cannabis among older adults seeking relief from chronic pain, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood symptoms, emphasizing the need for medical supervision, accurate labeling, and responsible use. 

Segment 2: Personal Story Summary
Jodi interviews two guests who bring lived experience to the conversation. "Miles" shares how marijuana became part of his life in high school as a way to fit in and connect socially. After moving to Colorado for college, he experienced the cultural shift of legalization and eventually worked in the recreational cannabis industry. While he observed customers seeking both recreational and symptom relief benefits, he later recognized that habitual use had affected his motivation and stress response. In recovery, he reflects on the importance of moderation, brain development, and understanding why we use substances in the first place. "David" offers the perspective of long-term recovery. Beginning marijuana and alcohol use at a young age, he describes how both became tools for self-medication, particularly for anxiety and fear. He used daily for decades before eventually achieving sobriety. Now nearly sixteen years substance-free, David speaks candidly about motivation loss, lingering cognitive effects, and the clarity that came with recovery. He also addresses the concept of “California sober,” explaining why abstinence from all mood-altering substances is necessary for his own recovery.



Episode Hashtags
#BeyondSubstance #ShawnPNeal #MarijuanaConversation #CannabisEducation #SubstanceUseAwareness #RecoveryJourney #BrainHealth #YouthPrevention #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #CBDandTHC #SubstanceFree #ClarityInRecovery #PublicHealthConversation #ResponsibleUse #IntegratedCare

Podcast Information:

• Hosted by: Dean Babcock & Jodi Miller
• "A Look at the Numbers" Host: Allie Martin
• Executive Producer: Shawn P Neal
• Produced and Mixed at AdvoCast Leadership Advisory's Studio236

Beyond Substance explores substance use prevention, treatment, recovery, public health, and the people working to build healthier communities through informed conversations and evidence-based perspectives.

Topics:
Substance Use, Recovery, Prevention, Public Health, Mental Health, Community Health, Healthcare, Education

Hashtags:
#BeyondSubstance #SubstanceUse #Recovery #RecoveryMatters #Prevention #PublicHealth #MentalHealth #CommunityHealth #Healthcare #HealthEducation