Podcast
Joint Forces Podcast
Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo · EN
Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love. The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it.
18episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Rico 2 Smoove | Joint Forces Podcast S2 EP:17
Mar 2701:06:51Tap to summarizeWe back with another one. On Episode 17 of Joint Forces, Luke Scarmazzo sits down with Rico 2 Smoove — artist, author, entrepreneur, and a straight multi-lane hustler. Rico’s been putting in work in the music scene while also building his brand Octane Exotics, showing what it really looks like to move with intention across different industries.Rico breaks down his journey from music to business, how he turned creativity into income, and why having multiple streams is the real play. Whether it’s writing books, dropping music, or building a brand, Rico’s approach is all about ownership, independence, and leveling up without waiting on anyone to open doors.Luke and Rico get into mindset, discipline, and what it takes to build something that lasts — not just chasing quick wins. This episode is all about evolution, staying sharp, and putting yourself in position to win long term. If you’re trying to build your own lane and stay consistent while doing it, this one’s for you.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Rico 2 Smoove:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/official_rico2smoove/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Money Makin Majix Returns | Joint Forces Podcast EP:16
Mar 2000:56:41Tap to summarizeMajix is back.On Episode 16 of Joint Forces, Luke Scarmazzo sits down once again with Money Makin Majix — entrepreneur, recording artist, and reality TV personality who first helped launch the Joint Forces Podcast back in Episode 1. Majix, also known as Michael “Majix” Yuen, built his name in both the music and business worlds and became widely recognized as a main cast member on the VH1 hit series Cartel Crew. Over the years he’s moved through multiple lanes — founding Magic City Records, building lifestyle brands, and co-founding Pure Blanco alongside Michael Corleone Blanco — all while staying active in the music industry and business game.This episode is a real catch-up between two guys who’ve both been through a lot since the first time they sat down. Majix breaks down what he’s been building lately, including a massive off-grid ranch project in Northern California, new ventures in the industry, and his plans for vertically integrated brands that control everything from the ground up. He also gets into the music side of things, upcoming releases, and the grind that took him from hustling his first pound at 15 years old to running multi-acre operations today. But it’s not all business talk. Majix pulls no punches in this one and airs out some real industry stories while reflecting on loyalty, integrity, and staying solid in a world full of fake moves. Luke and Majix also talk about mindset, discipline, and why building your own lane is the only real way to win.If you missed the first episode with Majix, tap in — and if you already saw it, this is the next chapter.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Majix:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymakinmajix/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Steve DeAngelo | Joint Forces Podcast EP:15
Mar 601:16:13Tap to summarizeThis one’s special. On the second episode of season 2 of Joint Forces, Luke Scarmazzo sits down with a true legend — Steve DeAngelo. If you know the history, you know the name. Steve has been on the front lines of cannabis activism for decades. He co-founded Harborside (one of the first major dispensaries in the country), helped shape modern reform efforts, and became a familiar face to millions through Weed Wars on Discovery Channel. Long before it was mainstream, Steve was fighting legal battles, organizing communities, and standing up for patients and operators when it wasn’t popular, or safe, to do so.But this conversation isn’t just about headlines and TV cameras. It’s about loyalty and legacy. Steve who cofounded the Last Prisoner Project, was involved in helping Luke during his fight for freedom. In this episode, they talk about the journey, the early days of activism, how the movement evolved, and why so many people were left behind during the shift to legalization.From underground organizing to national reform, from courtroom battles to industry boardrooms, Steve DeAngelo has seen it all. This episode is history, accountability, and game — straight from someone who helped build the foundation.Tap in. This is one for the culture.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Halle:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halle_penn/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Halle Pennington of Humboldt Seed Co | Joint Forces Podcast EP:14
Feb 2001:47:18Tap to summarizeSeason 2 is here and we’re kicking it off right. Luke Scarmazzo sits down with Halle Pennington of Humboldt Seed Co. — second-generation legacy farmer, pheno hunter, and one of the young voices carrying the culture forward. Raised deep in the Emerald Triangle, Halle grew up literally in the hills learning the craft from her father Nat Pennington, founder of Humboldt Seed Company — one of the most respected seed breeders in North America known for stabilizing genetics and massive outdoor pheno hunts that shaped modern cultivation.This episode dives into real history — the early days in Humboldt County, activism, community, and how a family project that started with breeding reliable seeds for local growers turned into an internationally recognized genetics company. Halle breaks down what makes a standout plant, why trends don’t matter if the experience isn’t there, and how generational knowledge gets passed down instead of written in a manual. As she puts it, some things can’t be replaced by labs or data — they’re learned in the field.Luke and Halle keep it raw about legacy farmers vs modern markets, chasing hype vs building quality, and why the roots of the culture still matter today. If you care about where the plant came from — and where it’s going — this is a must-watch season opener.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Halle:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halle_penn/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Hall of Flowers New York City 2025 | Joint Forces Podcast EP:13
Feb 1800:51:58Tap to summarizeThis week on The Joint Forces Podcast, host Luke Scarmazzo’s out in New York City for the very first East‑Coast edition of Hall of Flowers NYC 2025 — and we caught all the action. This isn’t just another trade show—it’s the moment where legacy meets license, culture meets commerce, and brands from the West Coast link up with the Big Apple scene. Luke’s rolling deep with the Prophet Brand crew, sidestepping through NYC, meeting industry movers, East‑Coast retailers, and new voices in the game. From quick sit‑downs with brand bosses to catching the city’s rhythm and how the culture is shifting now that New York’s market is live—this episode brings the streets, the booths, the deals, and the vibes.If you wanna know what it takes when the west‑coast hustle lands in Manhattan—how to work the floor, build bridges, and stay real in new territory—then you’ll want to tune in. This episode’s got biz talk, real talk, and scene context you won’t get anywhere else.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Sean Ryan of Murphy’s Ridge – Perseverance Through Pain | Joint Forces Podcast EP:12
Oct 601:34:09Tap to summarizeThis episode of Joint Forces hits different. Luke Scarmazzo sits down with Sean Ryan, founder of Murphy’s Ridge, to share one of the most raw and inspiring stories in the game. Years ago, Sean was shot by intruders during a robbery attempt — a tragic moment that left him paralyzed and in a wheelchair. But instead of letting that define him, Sean turned that pain into purpose.Out of the ashes, Sean built Murphy’s Ridge, a legacy cannabis brand rooted deep in Northern California soil. In this episode, Sean opens up about the night that changed everything, the recovery grind, and how he found new life through the plant. It’s a convo about resilience, hustle, and staying true — no matter what cards you’re dealt.Sean’s journey is living proof that the cannabis industry isn’t just about business — it’s about survival, healing, and redemption. Whether you’re a grower, activist, or just someone who loves a real story, this one is gonna stick with you.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Murphy's Ridge:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/murphys_ridge/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Ngaio Bealum | Joint Forces Podcast EP:11
Sep 2200:54:34Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Joint Forces, Luke Scarmazzo sits down with the legendary Ngaio Bealum — an OG in the cannabis game and a master of the mic. If you know cannabis culture, then you know Ngaio. He’s a stand-up comic, activist, writer, and former co-host of Netflix’s Cooking on High. He’s toured the country doing comedy, hosted Cannabis Planet, written columns like Ask 420, and stayed true to the plant for decades.Luke and Ngaio vibe on everything from the early days of California’s Prop 215 to the wild state of the game today. They chop it up about legalization, social equity (or lack thereof), and how comedy has always been a vehicle for truth-telling in cannabis spaces. Expect laughs, real talk, and unfiltered opinions from a man who’s lived it on stage, in the courtroom, and behind the scenes.If you love sharp wit, deep roots, and unapologetic insight into cannabis and culture, this one’s for you.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Ngaio:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngaio420/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Quawntay ‘Bosco’ Adams Full Interview | Chasin’ Freedum + Bosco Movie | Joint Forces Podcast EP:10
Sep 1501:11:38Tap to summarizeThis one hits different. On Episode 10 of The Joint Forces Podcast, Luke Scarmazzo chops it up with Quawntay “Bosco” Adams—real talk from a man who lived it all. Bosco grew up in Compton, got slapped with a 35-year federal sentence for marijuana possession, and did the unthinkable: escaped—and then fought his way out of the system to freedom.But that's only half the story. From behind bars, Bosco penned his memoir Chasin’ Freedum, pouring his heart into every word while locked in solitary. That book caught fire, caught Hollywood’s eye—and became the 2024 biographical drama Bosco, available now on Peacock. Stars like Tyrese Gibson, Vivica A. Fox, and Aubrey Joseph bring his story to life, chronicling his will to survive and the daring escape for his daughter.In this convo, Bosco keeps it 100—talking about growing up in the struggle, scheming his way through solitary, writing a book with no paper, and turning that pain into purpose. He’s also stepping into the film game as a producer, making sure his narrative stays authentic and powerful.If you believe in second chances... if you respect somebody using their worst moments as fuel... this episode is for you. Hear the resilience, the redemption, and get inspired to flip your own script—whether you're fighting the system or just trying to rise in your hustle.Grab the book: Chasin’ Freedum—Bosco’s raw, unfiltered story from cell to self-made man.Watch the film: Bosco—Peacock Original—stream that realness.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Bosco:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quawntayboscoadams/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →The Outlaw Tahoe Mayor Cody Bass | Joint Forces Podcast EP:9
Jun 2701:23:27Tap to summarizeThis week on The Joint Forces Podcast, Luke Scarmazzo gets real with Cody Bass—the “Outlaw Mayor of Tahoe.” Born into a cannabis family, Cody took his first steps into cultivation at 18 in Mendocino, then built Tahoe Wellness Cooperative in 2009, licensing his own land and fostering some of California’s most sustainable grow practices. By 2018, the people of South Lake Tahoe elected him to city council, and in December 2023 he became mayor, bringing that same outlaw spirit into government Luke and Cody chop it up about life in Tahoe, blending the worlds of public service and plant activism. They talk about Cody’s journey from the hills of Mendocino to running a city, navigating legal drama, crafting policy, and keeping the culture alive—no fluff, just real talk. If you respect that hybrid hustle of grassroots grower turned civic leader, this one’s for you.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Cody:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ydocbass/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →Nika Cocos - From War-Torn Roots to R&B Vibes | Joint Forces Podcast EP:8
Jun 600:52:42Tap to summarizeIn this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, host Luke Scarmazzo sits down with singer and songwriter Nika Cocos—a true force in the rising R&B scene. Originally from Belarus, Nika shares the deeply personal story of how she was forced to flee from the war in Ukraine and start a new chapter in the Bay Area, using music as both a healing outlet and a launchpad for her dreams.Now based in California, Nika’s sound blends raw emotion with slick production, bridging her Eastern European roots and West Coast influences. Her latest track “Bad Girl” is straight fire—dripping with confidence and soul while telling a story of independence and resilience. From war zones to recording studios, Nika is turning pain into power and proving she's a name to remember.Luke and Nika get real about the immigrant hustle, what it takes to stay grounded through chaos, and how music can be a lifeline when everything else feels like it’s falling apart. This episode is deep, inspiring, and full of gems for anyone chasing their passion through adversity.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Nika:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nika.cocosss/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0EAbout The Joint Forces Podcast:Welcome to The Joint Forces Podcast—where the hustle meets the heart of the cannabis game. Hosted by Luke Scarmazzo, a real one who did 15 years in federal prison just for running a legit medical dispensary under California law, this podcast keeps it raw and unfiltered. Luke breaks down the business, culture, and legal drama surrounding the cannabis industry, bringing in voices that matter—entrepreneurs, activists, and folks who’ve done time for the plant they love.This ain't just talk; it’s about shining a light on untold stories and real struggles in the cannabis world. Whether it's chopping it up with industry leaders or hearing from people fighting outdated drug laws, The Joint Forces Podcast delivers the truth from those who lived it. Luke’s journey from prison to reform advocate gives him a front-row seat to the game—perfect for listeners who want the real deal on cannabis legalization, social justice, and what it takes to thrive in the green space today.
Transcribe →