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.
19episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Nika Cocos - From War-Torn Roots to R&B Vibes | Joint Forces Podcast EP:8
Jun 6, 202500:52:42Tap 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 →Caleb Counts with Connected | Joint Forces Podcast EP:07
May 8, 202501:25:45Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, host Luke Scarmazzo sits down with Caleb Counts, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Connected Cannabis Co. With a journey that began in his early teens, Caleb has transformed his passion for cannabis into a leading brand known for its premium genetics and top-shelf flower. Caleb's story is one of resilience and innovation. After stepping away from the cannabis scene to pursue a career in sales, he returned with a mission to elevate the industry. Under his leadership, Connected Cannabis Co. has become synonymous with quality and consistency, setting new standards in cultivation and branding. In this candid conversation, Caleb shares insights into the challenges of building a cannabis empire, the importance of staying true to one's roots, and the future of the industry. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned connoisseur, this episode offers a deep dive into the world of premium cannabis.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Caleb:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counts/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 →Building Empires with Patti O'Brien | Joint Forces Podcast EP:06
Apr 11, 202501:30:49Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, host Luke Scarmazzo sits down with Patti O'Brien, the powerhouse entrepreneur behind Lemonnade Antioch and KANNA Oakland. Patti's been instrumental in shaping the cannabis scene in the Bay Area, bringing her strategic leadership and regulatory expertise to the forefront. Patti's journey is all about passion and perseverance. At Lemonnade Antioch, she delivered a sativa-focused menu that's been hailed as the #1 in the world. Then, with KANNA Oakland, she cultivated a community-centric dispensary that's all about quality products and giving back. In this convo, Patti keeps it real about the challenges of launching and running top-tier dispensaries, navigating the ever-evolving cannabis regulations, and staying true to the culture. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or just love the plant, Patti's insights are pure gold.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Patti:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twinphish.1979/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 2025 | Joint Forces Podcast EP:05
Mar 28, 202501:15:01Tap to summarizeIn this special episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, host Luke Scarmazzo takes you straight to the heart of the 2025 Hall of Flowers in Ventura, California. Representing Prophet Brand, Luke was on the scene, chopping it up with some of the most influential figures in the cannabis game.First up, Luke sits down with Kevin Jodrey, a true OG in the cannabis cultivation world. With over 35 years in the game, Kevin's been deep in everything from trafficking to breeding top-tier genetics. He's the mastermind behind Wonderland Nursery, the first vertical nursery in the U.S., and played a pivotal role in the CBD movement. Now partnered with Cookies as their R&D guru, Kevin drops gems on the evolution of cultivation and where the industry's headed. Next, Luke chops it up with Ted Lidie, the visionary founder of Alien Labs. Ted's journey is straight out of a comic book—literally. Growing up on manga and B-movies, he infused that nerd culture into Alien Labs, creating a brand that's both iconic and authentic. From humble beginnings in Redding, CA, to dominating markets in multiple states, Ted shares the highs and lows of building a brand that's out of this world. The main event? A powerful panel titled "Time Served, Time to Resurrect: Cannabis Prisoner to Entrepreneur." Moderated by Manndie Tingler, this discussion brings together four former federal cannabis prisoners—Quawntay “Bosco” Adams, Luke Scarmazzo from Prophet, Mike “Majix” Yuen from Money Brand X, and Corvain Cooper from 40 Tons. Collectively, they've served 53 years behind bars for a plant that's been healing folks for centuries. Their stories of resilience, redemption, and reinvention are nothing short of inspiring.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.
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The Dodi Connection | Luke Scarmazzo: A Story of Redemption and Resilience
Mar 25, 202501:03:23Tap to summarizeLuke Scarmazzo’s journey from Modesto, California, to becoming a trailblazer in the cannabis industry is nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up in a community where cannabis cultivation was commonplace, Luke didn’t think much of it—until the world started seeing it as a problem. As a teenager, he experienced firsthand the stigma attached to cannabis, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing what would become a groundbreaking career.In the early 2000s, Luke took a bold step into the unknown and began considering opening a legal dispensary in Modesto, a city still grappling with the concept of medical cannabis. After a landmark legal case brought clarity to the medical cannabis laws, Luke’s vision turned into reality. He opened the first legal dispensary in the area, defying the odds despite facing legal opposition and public criticism.However, Luke’s success didn’t come without its challenges. The cannabis industry was still in its infancy, and the fast-paced world of dispensary ownership was filled with uncertainty. But Luke adapted, growing his business in an environment that was anything but stable. As the dispensary grew, so did the pressure, and Luke found himself in a difficult situation that would eventually lead to his time behind bars.While incarcerated, Luke found clarity in solitary confinement. It was there that he began writing A High Price, a memoir chronicling his journey, his mistakes, and his fight for redemption. Luke’s story is one of resilience—a testament to the power of second chances and how overcoming adversity can lead to personal growth.Luke’s journey continues today as he advocates for change in the cannabis industry. His story is one of perseverance, and it’s an inspiring tale of how one person’s struggle can transform into a powerful movement.Listen to the full episode of The Dodi Connection and hear Luke’s inspiring story firsthand. Also, check out his book A High Price for an even deeper dive into his life’s journey and Learn how Luke’s fight for change has transformed the cannabis industry and led to the success of Prophet Brands.
Transcribe →From the Streets to Cookie's CEO: Berner | Joint Forces Podcast EP:04
Mar 7, 202501:09:26Tap to summarizeIn this dope episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, your host Luke Scarmazzo sits down with the Bay Area's own Berner—rapper, entrepreneur, and the genius behind the iconic Cookies brand. They dive deep into Berner's journey from hustling in San Francisco's streets to building a billion-dollar cannabis empire that's recognized worldwide.Berner, born Gilbert Anthony Milam Jr., started his grind young, dropping out of high school to pursue music and the cannabis game. His passion led him to co-found Cookies in 2010, a brand that's become synonymous with quality and culture in the cannabis industry. With over 70 retail locations across six countries, Cookies isn't just a brand; it's a movement.In this episode, Berner keeps it 100 about the challenges of navigating the legal cannabis landscape, the importance of authenticity, and how he's stayed true to his roots while scaling new heights. He also opens up about his personal battles, including his fight against cancer, and how it reshaped his perspective on life and business.Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a hip-hop head, or just someone looking for some real talk, this episode is packed with gems. Tune in to hear Berner's unfiltered thoughts on the future of cannabis, the hustle of the music industry, and what it takes to turn a dream into reality.Follow Luke Scarmazzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/Follow Berner:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berner415/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 California Healthcare Collective Reunion | Joint Forces Podcast EP:03
Feb 14, 202501:10:08Tap to summarizeIn this special reunion episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, host Luke Scarmazzo sits down with the original crew from California Healthcare Collective (CHC)—the groundbreaking dispensary that he co-founded with Ricardo Montes. Joining the table are CHC’s daily operations manager Miguel Buenrostro and head of security Russell “Lunatik” Green, both pivotal figures in CHC’s rise and legacy. This episode is packed with raw, unfiltered stories from the early days of CHC—when there was no playbook, just passion, hustle, and a vision to change the game. The crew reflects on their wild journey from setting up shop in Modesto to navigating legal gray areas, community support, and eventually facing federal prosecution. They share behind-the-scenes tales of daily operations, the risks they took, and the bonds they built along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to be part of one of California’s first dispensaries, this is the episode for you. It’s more than a trip down memory lane—it’s a testament to resilience, brotherhood, and the fight for what you believe in. Follow Luke Scarmazzo: Instagram: / lukescarmazzo Instagram: / jointforcespodcast Produced by Gears and Grit Instagram: / gears.and.grit Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0E About 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 →James Loud | Joint Forces Podcast EP:2
Jan 31, 202501:08:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, your host Luke Scarmazzo sits down with James Loud—a heavyweight in the cannabis game. James is the mastermind breeder, author of "Cannabis Breeding: The Art and Science of Crafting Distinctive Cultivars", and the voice behind the award-winning James Loud Podcast. With over 25 years in the field, he's been setting the bar high in cannabis genetics and breeding. Luke and James dive deep into the art and science of cannabis breeding, sharing stories from the trenches and dropping knowledge on the latest trends in the industry. They discuss the journey from underground cultivation to mainstream recognition, highlighting the challenges and victories along the way. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just curious about the culture, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Tune in to catch this real talk between two pioneers who have lived the highs and lows of the cannabis world. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more unfiltered conversations on The Joint Forces Podcast. Follow Luke Scarmazzo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukescarmazzo/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointforcespodcast/ Follow James Loud: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesloud/ Produced by Gears and Grit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/ Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0E About 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 | Joint Forces Podcast EP:1
Nov 8, 202401:04:59Tap to summarizeIn the premiere episode of The Joint Forces Podcast, host Luke Scarmazzo links up with Money Makin Majix—rapper, actor, and entrepreneur best known from VH1’s Cartel Crew. This conversation dives deep into Majix’s journey from the streets to becoming the co-founder of the high-end lifestyle brand Pure Blanco and Magic City Records. The two chop it up about the hustle, cannabis culture, and how Majix transformed legacy connections into legitimate business success. Get an insider's look at the real grind behind the cannabis industry, the music game, and the evolution of Majix’s brand. From launching major business ventures to staying connected with his roots, Majix shares stories of ambition and resilience. You’ll also hear candid moments about the challenges of breaking into legal industries and the role cannabis plays in both business and personal life. Tune in and vibe with us as we set the tone for future episodes featuring other industry leaders and people who've paid the price for their love of the plant. Don't miss the laughs, the knowledge, and the authentic conversation only found on The Joint Forces Podcast! 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 Grit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/ Get Luke Scarmazzo's book "High Price" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0m48P0E About 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.
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