The Human Cost of Cannabis Prohibition with Tamara Lyn Netzel

Explicit content warning

02/21/25 • 42 min

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Tamara Lyn Netzel, Founder of Cruel Consequences: Portraits of Misguided Law.

Tamara’s advocacy work sheds light on the devastating, far-reaching impact of outdated cannabis laws. She shares her personal battle with Multiple Sclerosis that led her to cannabis, as well as the heartbreaking and inspiring stories behind her nonprofit’s powerful portrait project.

We also discuss her two groundbreaking books, The Human Cost of Marijuana Prohibition and Humans of Cannabis in a Renaissance of Hope, which highlight the systemic injustices people face long after a cannabis conviction.

Together, we’ll explore how her work is rewriting the narrative around cannabis, breaking stigmas, and driving meaningful change in policies and communities.

This is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Tune in to hear how powerful advocacy and personal stories have become a catalyst for hope and reform.

Resources Mentioned:

Learn more about Cruel Consequences at cruelconsequences.org

Check out Tamara’s books on her website or Amazon!

Listen now and join the movement to end the human cost of marijuana prohibition.

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we’re joined by Tamara Lyn Netzel, Founder of Cruel Consequences: Portraits of Misguided Law.

Together, we’ll explore how her work is rewriting the narrative around cannabis, breaking stigmas, and driving meaningful change in policies and communities.

This is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Tune in to hear how powerful advocacy and personal stories have become a catalyst for hope and reform.

Resources Mentioned:

Learn more about Cruel Consequences at cruelconsequences.org

Check out Tamara’s books on her website or Amazon!

Listen now and join the movement to end the human cost of marijuana prohibition.

Previous Episode

The Future of Cannabis in Florida with Jamie Miller

On this episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, we shine a spotlight on the evolving cannabis landscape in the Sunshine State.

Montel is joined by Jamie Miller, a seasoned political strategist with over two decades of experience navigating Florida’s political scene. Jamie brings deep insights from high-stakes campaigns, including the pivotal 2000 presidential recount and key statewide initiatives.

Together, they break down the implications of Florida’s recent Amendment 3 vote, discuss why adult-use cannabis fell short, and explore what’s next for legalization efforts.

From the role of federal policy to the economic opportunities for Floridians, this conversation dives into the critical factors shaping the state’s cannabis future.

Tune in for an informative and eye-opening discussion that highlights opportunities, challenges, and the road ahead for cannabis policy in Florida.

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Now, Adam is sharing the unfiltered story of his highs and lows in his upcoming book, Weed Empire: How I Battled Gangsters, Investment Banks, and the Department of Justice to Build the Cannabis Industry in America, releasing April 2025. From reimagining cannabis retail as sleek Apple Store-like spaces to navigating legal challenges in the fight to normalize cannabis, Adam’s journey is packed with ambition, resilience, and valuable lessons.

Tune in as Montel dives into Adam’s experiences, including the sacrifices he made, the risks he took to bring cannabis to Wall Street, and how his monumental accomplishments continue to pave the way for the future of the industry.

This is a must-listen for anyone chasing big dreams or curious about what it takes to lead in one of the most turbulent industries. Stay inspired, stay informed, and always stay blunt.