The EVOLUTION Magazine September 2024 | Page 28

Can you explain the concept of “ Stacking ” dosages ?
MC : Stacking your dosage is a strategy that involves using different forms of cannabis to achieve both immediate and long-term relief ...
Elevated Learning

A Cannabis Nurse ’ s Take on the Missouri Cannabis Market

An In-depth Interview with Matt Cascio , aka Matt the Canna Nurse by Danielle Buntyon , contributing writer

Welcome to our Elevated Learning Series . In this installment , I ’ m getting candid with the people who are at the forefront of the cannabis industry . My first conversation was with Matt Cascio , an esteemed professional who wears many hats in this dynamic field .

Matt Cascio ( photo above ) is the director of sales at Peaceful Roads , a prominent CBD company . He is also a cannabis nurse , educator , consultant , and advocate with The Cannabis Care Team . With a rich background as a registered nurse for 25 years , Cascio has been actively involved in the cannabis industry since 2014 .
He is also a dedicated member of the Cannabis Nurses Network and the American Cannabis Nurses Association . Cascio ’ s commitment to cannabis education is evident through his participation in numerous events across Missouri , where he has shared his extensive knowledge with patients and industry professionals alike .
28 September 2024
Additionally , Cascio is a key player in the Cannabis Care Team , providing invaluable education to patients and dispensaries in both Missouri and Oklahoma . His multifaceted expertise and passion for patient care make him a vital resource in the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry .
Let ’ s delve into our conversation and explore Cascio ’ s insights on the comparison of cannabis markets across Missouri , patient preferences , and the coexistence of the different cannabis sectors .
Dani B : Matt , you ’ ve been a part of the cannabis industry in many facets . Currently , you ’ re working with Peaceful Roads , a CBD company , and you ’ ve previously worked with Good Day Farms . Can you share your insights on the comparison of cannabis in different markets across Missouri ?
Matt Cascio ( MC ): The cannabis landscape in Missouri is quite diverse , with distinct segments for hemp , medical , and adult-use cannabis . Each sector has its unique characteristics and consumer bases , which makes for an interesting market dynamic .
Dani B : What trends are you seeing in terms of what patients are gravitating toward ? Are there particular products or strains that are becoming more popular ?
MC : In the medical sector , there ’ s a strong preference for products that offer high CBD content and targeted therapeutic effects . Patients are increasingly looking for products that can help with specific conditions like chronic pain , anxiety , and insomnia . On the adult-use side , there ’ s a noticeable demand for high-THC strains and innovative products like edibles and vapes . As a result of this push for high THC , consumers are craving more diverse options . I always recommend trying a variety of cannabis products to find a more well-balanced consumption experience .

Can you explain the concept of “ Stacking ” dosages ?

MC : Stacking your dosage is a strategy that involves using different forms of cannabis to achieve both immediate and long-term relief ...

Dani B : On the flip side , what products or trends do you see losing market share across all sectors ?
MC : Traditional smoking products like pre-rolls and loose flower seem to be losing some ground to more discreet and convenient options like edibles , tinctures , and topicals . In the hemp sector , there ’ s a decline in interest in basic CBD oils , with consumers looking for more sophisticated formulations and delivery methods .
Dani B : Do you believe that the hemp , medical , and adult-use markets can all coexist effectively in Missouri ?