Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari

Angela Speakman

Who would send someone an anonymous package containing an old diary with no explanation? Moreover, why? The only clue was a note stuck to the front of the leather-bound, handwritten book with six words; it said "use this as you see fit." If they’re going to figure out why the diary was sent, Angela and Brandon need to investigate each entry to learn more about the author. They’re hoping that reviewing each entry will lead them to the truth behind the mystery diary and why whoever wrote it - and it’s truly unlike anything else - entrusted it to Angela with little guidance, but obvious faith? You’re invited to tune in as a wide array of insightful New Jersey cannabists join Angela and Brandon as they explore and learn from intimate stories told through a powerful voice that appears to have gone silent as of April 20, 2022. "Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari" is a podcast for anyone who loves good cannabis or good stories or good stories about cannabis. Dropped on the 4th and 20th of each month, be sure to subscribe so each new episode is delivered right to your inbox.

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20 episodes
Updated Sep 4, 2024

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Sep 4, 2024 · 1 hr 16 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Season 2, E11
We're always learning some new from Mari and the cannabis professionals interested in exploring her diary! Do you remember the first time you consumed? Do you remember what you were watching on television? Cannabis professional, music-maker, photographer, branding ace, and all-around fantastic fella Brian Aufdenberg does! He shared a bit about his cannabis journey when he joined Brandon and Angela to explore Mari's diary entry from 1943. The trio learned that the first mention of marijuana in Time Magazine occurred in 1934. It was notably brief mention, simply stating that marijuana was “a drug, long common in Mexico, made from a variety of hemp weed." Nine years later, in 1943, Time Magazine published its first full article. It wasn't a coincidence that the piece, "The Weed" came out after a high profile arrest of a prominent jazz musician. Mari's insight about the feature drew attention to the realities of marijuana usage. She reflected in her writing, noting "Curiously, the power of mental concentration appears to increase rather than diminish...But in spite of the legends, no case of physical, mental or moral degeneration has ever been traced exclusively to marijuana." Thank goodness Vinny and the Captain had a copy of Time (mostly to use for auctioneering practice) so Mari was able to review an article that had some actual truths in it. Be sure to subscribe; new episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of each month. Only 1 more episode left in Season 2, so don't miss out. About Brian Aufdenberg Throughout his career, Brian has worked with emerging brands as well as established companies, helping them become iconic mainstays both on a national and international stage. He has built brands in cannabis, apparel, music, and liquor. He enjoys nurturing and bringing out the essence of brands and their products with sales, marketing, brand strategy, and building each brands unique voice. Brian is currently the Associate Director of Field Marketing at Fernway. Also, he's the force behind the Triple Bolt Gazette and makes music as B.M.A. Follow him at on IG at Fernway Brian, BMA_DNB, and Triple Bolt Gazette.
Aug 20, 2024 · 46 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Season 2, E10
You've got questions...and Angela and Brandon have answers! On this episode, the pair explored questions posed by listeners about Mari and her fascinating diary. In early 2023, when Angela received an anonymous package containing an old diary with no explanation beyond a note that said "use this as you see fit," there were immediate questions. Who sent it? Why was it sent to Angela? What should be done next? The list went on and on. Since then, as she and Brandon have learned more about Ms. Mari Juana's extraordinary life, the questions have continued to pile up. Each week, they learn a little bit more about Mari and her experiences. Since Angela and Brandon started sharing Mari's writings with listeners through the podcast, every day, they field inquiries about Mari and her diary. On this episode, they talk through the questions that others have posed. They cover: - thoughts on formula in the box. - Mari's residence and activities. - descriptions of Mari. - favorite entries that highlight important cannabis history. With Mari, there always seem to be more questions than answers, which encourages good cannabis conversation. They've come to realize - that's likely exactly what Mari wanted all along. One thing is for sure, Mari knew what she was doing when she mailed her diary to Angela. Each episode of "Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari" puts reliable, accurate cannabis information out into the world, which chips away at misinformation and problematic stigma. Questions or comments about Mari and her diary? Send 'em in and Angela and Brandon will be sure to share their insight.
Aug 4, 2024 · 1 hr 2 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Season 2, E9
Episode Summary Even though there's no national holiday celebration in August, we had plenty to celebrate on this episode! Returning for another entry, South Jersey cannabis attorney and all-around interesting human Mike Hoffman joined Angela and Brandon to read through another one of Mari's writings from the 1970s. Mike shared some insight about what motivated him to get involved in the clean-up of the failed War on Drugs. That proved to be a natural segue to discuss Mari's reflections about her time with NORML founder Keith Stroup and how the Playboy Foundation got involved in cannabis activism by funding the advocacy start-up. Keith, Hugh Hefner, and Bobbie Arnstein were all involved in conversations that ultimately helped to launch one of the most well-known cannabis advocacy organizations in the country. The trio of entry-explorers ended up swimming around in an "emotion ocean" (as described by Mari - "happy tears and giggly sorrow") and learning more about cannabis conversations in the 1970s. The passing of the Controlled Substance Act was a major factor in cannabis at that point in America. Mari reinforced the lesson: The 1970s were a particularly important decade in cannabis history and those who stood up to advocate for the reformation of marijuana laws had to fight hard. About Mike Hoffman Mike Hoffman is a true solo attorney, focusing on expungements, cannabis & social equity, and municipal court/DWI impairment. He founded The Hoffman Centers in 2017. According to Mike, "This is a company formed as the labor of my loves. Everything I have ever done and everything I have ever considered will be given an opportunity through this position. I have formed this company, in structure, to allow me to begin practicing law again, on my own terms. It also, as there are multiple "Centers" involved, allows me to pursue the governmental affairs, policy analysis, and legislative opinion services that have intrigued me. Finally, as part and parcel of the "innovation" center, I will have an incubator to help those ideas that have potentially seemed profitable to me, whether mine or others, take those ideas, and bring them to a place where they might achieve the recognition and profitability they deserve."
Jul 20, 2024 · 46 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Season 2, E8
Episode Summary In memory of John Sinclair, American poet, writer, and political activist October 2, 1941 – April 2, 2024 What is medicine? Which state had legal cannabis for 22 days in the 1970s? Is advocacy a default for anyone working in the cannabis industry? These are all questions that the diary entry review crew talked through while reading through Mari's writing from 1972. While exploring topics about what qualifies as medicine, John Sinclair's activism and impact, and what Albert (the guy who doesn't wear socks) had to say about celebrating cannabis advancement, Brandon and Angela talk with Dr. Alan Ao, pharmacist and Founder/Chief Everything Officer at Vigor Dispensary. Mari's account of John's release and his "I wanna smoke some joints, man!" declaration helped them understand more about the pioneer advocates who made it their mission to see cannabis change happen. The best thing about this episode? A surprise guest who knows a thing or two about Chicago, cannabis and the law, and how fear and anger motivate getting involved. Mari reinforced the lesson: advocating for access to cannabis is not for the faint of heart. But it’s worth it. About Dr. Alan Ao With 20 years of retail experience and a specialization in various niche areas of alternative medicine, Dr. Ao aims to incorporate traditional community pharmacy practices into the newly developing cannabis industry. He is a champion for utilizing scientific evidence-based education paired with a holistic approach to provide the best quality care to medical patients and adult-use consumers alike. Using a community-based focus coupled with his operational expertise, his goal is to bring cannabinoid-based therapy into mainstream conversation as a standard of medical care. Dr. Ao is in the process of opening Vigor Dispensary in Matawan, New Jersey.
Jul 4, 2024 · 1 hr 8 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Season 2, E7
Episode Summary "Does anyone smell that skunk weed?" The scientific reason behind why we equate skunk spray smell with the aroma of cannabis was just one of many things explored from this 1975 entry. In this episode, the conversation was nonstop. Brandon and Angela talked with cannabis educators and advocates Andrea Raible and Sam Reichbart about Mari's writing that described a fun night of painting at Omar and Dana's house that included the 1974 Maya Angelou memoir “Gather Together in my Name.” The foursome bounced back and forth between strains and terpenes to literature and how cannabis and food intersect. Methods of growing, why home grow matters, and how life "amused" Maya Angelou (a fan of grifa) are all interesting parts of this diary entry exploration. Mari reinforced the lesson: perfect sentences are worth celebrating. About Andrea Raible and Sam Reichbart and education in New Jersey Andrea Raible and Sam Reichbart are cannabis professionals working in the New Jersey cannabis industry. They both have experience in cannabis advocacy and helping people understand more about cannabis and plant medicine. In 2023, they kicked off the process to form CaMPS, the Cultivation and Plant Medicine Society. This grassroots effort is aimed at helping people learn more about plant medicine and at-home-cultivation.
Jun 20, 2024 · 56 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Season 2, E6
The reefer man invades college campuses! Special guest Northeast Corridor Provisions Inc. CEO and New Jersey Cannabusiness Association vice president Dr. Marianne Bays helps to delve into this entry from 1937, a notable year in the history of cannabis. On this episode Marianne, Brandon, and Angela explore what happened when two colleges publicly denied marijuana invasions on their campuses during a year where marijuana headlines were becoming more common and contributing to widespread fears. The trio talked about media messaging, Robert C. Randall and Alice O'Leary Randall and their pioneer advocacy efforts, and the role that nurses have played in helping patients access cannabis. Mari reinforced the lesson: her warnings of the war on drugs were loud and clear. About Marianne Bays and Northeast Corridor Provisions Inc. (NEC Provisions) Dr. Marianne Bays is a cannabis industry business consultant, analyst and entrepreneur and a lifetime resident of New Jersey. She has been studying and working in the cannabis industry since 2008. She has been the lead consultant on cannabis business license application projects in 8 states, and the District of Columbia, helping to build business plans and win licenses for her clients in 6 of these locations, including one of the initial 10 licenses granted in New York State. This required reading and understanding State cannabis laws and business regulations in each of those states. She was a founding operations member of Kalyx Development, a real estate investment trust in the cannabis industry, and also a Managing Director of Mingleridge Business Resources, LLC, providing consulting services to the industry. Marianne has over 25 years of previous experience working as a management consultant with Fortune 2000 businesses and government agencies on process, performance and structure improvement. In these projects she organized and led consultant and client teams of up to 100 people, working 3-12 months or more to solve complicated organizational problems. Much of her early work experience was done in Federal and State agencies, providing her with a strong understanding of a regulated work environment. She was also previously an Assistant Professor of Management at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey. She has managed an independent organizational consultancy for much of her career, working in both private industry and government. She holds a PhD in Business – Organization and Policy Studies from CUNY Graduate Center in NYC. Dr. Bays is a founding Board Member of the New Jersey CannaBusiness Association (NJCBA), its current Vice President, and the past chair of its Higher Education Committee. In this latter capacity, she has worked with New Jersey universities developing curricula, programs related to careers in the cannabis industry, and encouraging cannabis research. She is also a member of the NJCBA Policy Committee and has authored position papers for the association on adult legalization and regulation of cannabis, recommending NJ policies on manufacturing of infused edibles and beverages, and recommending regulations for operation of licensed cannabis consumption areas. She has also provided support to the NJCBA Laboratory Testing Committee in their efforts to recommend improved laboratory testing policy to the CRC. Most recently, she is working with a task force focused on needed NJ regulation of intoxicating cannabinoids derived from hemp and another focused on streamlining processes for hiring and approval of product production plans in start-up businesses licensed by the state. Dr. Bays brings a combination of business strategy and organizational management knowledge and experience and cannabis industry knowledge and experience to the NEC Provisions CEO role.
Apr 4, 2024 · 37 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, S2, E1
When Angela and Brandon received another mysterious package, they realized that their efforts to learn more about the diary filled with intimate stories involving Ms. Mari Juana were being noticed...maybe by Mari herself?!?! The box contained a variety of items that seemed cryptic at first. In this Season 2 kickoff episode, they follow the trail of clues in the box to April 1, 1980, which happened to be an entry in the diary. On that day in San Diego, thousands attended the California Marijuana Initiative Rally. It's definitely no surprise that Mari was there! While they explore what happened on that sunny day in California, Angela and Brandon got the message loud and clear. The box and its contents - and the entry itself - tell them that sharing truths about cannabis widely and with anyone willing to listen helps promote accurate and reliable information...and that's exactly what's needed. They resolve to enlist some cannabis industry friends to grow their investigations and to find out everything they can about Mari and her experiences. And Nicholas Cage too. To learn more, visit https://youtu.be/d_OYBykY_ss?si=5Prj2Af08emssj-E. You can find "Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari" wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes of Season 2 will drop on the 4th and 20th from April to September 2024. And be assured, there's always room for new friends in Mari's circle. *
Sep 20, 2023 · 38 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 18
The same, but different. Cannabis and hashish. Love and hate. Corey Feldman and Corey Haim. Angela and Brandon acknowledge just how complicated a relationship with cannabis can be when they explored an entry from 1856, while they considered their own relationships with Mari’s diary. In this entry, Mari comments on Fitz Hugh Ludlow’s anonymous description of his own complex relationship with cannabis. She noted that he wrote “In returning from the world of hasheesh, I bring with me many and diverse memories” and those memories, as described in his writing, do not always align with wellness. In this Season Finale episode, Brandon and Angela discussed how individuals use and misuse cannabis, as it’s all about choice. And just as they reaffirmed their decision for some distance from the diary, a visitor stepped onto the scene... Season 2, coming April 20, 2024.
Sep 4, 2023 · 30 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 17
Brandon and Angela have a new favorite quote from the diary - " If I could, I’d wrap each first time in a blanket of peace to set the stage for good, open spirit." If they haven't learned by now...this entry has undoubtedly taught them that Mari has a way with words. In this one, going back to September of 1961, Mari described how every person reacts differently when introduced to her and what she wishes she could reassure them for every first time float. And Brandon and Angela had no idea that sock puppets could be so educational! What an entry. New episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of each month; be sure to subscribe to get Mari's diary delivered right to you. Also, you're invited to expand the investigatory adventure by following @thediaryofmari on IG.
Aug 20, 2023 · 50 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 16
Special episode alert! Each week, Brandon and Angela dive into a different entry written by Mari. This time, though, they're answering questions. Questions about the diary (what does it smell like?) and Mari's writing (does she mention any strains?) and shared custody (is there any fighting over it?) are just some of inquiries that have come in from around the world. So far, diary entry adventures have been downloaded in over 25 countries! Brandon and Angela talk cannabis names, special people, and theories about Mari's whereabouts are all included in this fun Q&A. If you have questions about the diary, then you're in good company. Be sure to subscribe - new episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of each month.
Aug 4, 2023 · 39 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 15
Mari was just relaxing in her hammock, letting the summer breeze gently rock her into a very chill state. But, as Brandon and Angela learned, her laid-back afternoon was cut short. Mari came across some concerning news about the Pure Food Bill (aka Pure Food and Drug Act), which was passed in 1906. They discover that Mari sees the value of this legislation, but has concerns about how cannabis is positioned next to other substances. With each new entry, Brandon and Angela understand more about some of Mari's consumption habits...she's a voracious reader that likes to stay up-to-date about what's going on around the world. She's insightful and visionary, something not often associated with her and her extended family. There's a lot of food for thought while exploring this entry. What an appropriate moment to have the munchies...
Jul 20, 2023 · 33 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 14
The approach of the New Year prompts reflection for many. And Mari is no exception. In this episode Brandon and Angela talk through what Mari's reflections on the approaching new year (in 1898!), how conflict plagues mankind, and the importance of truth-tellers. The featured text in her diary entry dates back even further...to 1860. Mari finds Doc McMeen's "Report of the Ohio State Medical Committee on Cannabis Indica" to be informative and relevant, even 40 years after publication. (If you asked Brandon and Angela, they'd predict that Mari would find the report relevant today! They certainly did.) New episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of each month - you're invited to subscribe to ensure each diary entry adventure finds its way to your inbox.
Jul 4, 2023 · 45 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 13
Lucky number #13! On this episode, Brandon and Angela stroll down memory lane. They paused their entry exploration to stop and take stock of what they've learned from the 12 entries they've explored so far. From Dr. Raphael Mechoulam's discovery of THC to the obituary of Harry Anslinger, from a riveting game of Boggle to the infamous Mr. X reveal, they've explored some of Mari's writings to learn more about her experiences from around the globe. They're getting closer to learning why Angela was chosen (remember "pay attention" and 419.99?) all the time. Be sure to subscribe; new episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of each month!
Jun 20, 2023 · 46 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 12
Today, it's all about New Jersey, the only state in America that's actively disliked by the general population (yes, an actual study found this to be true). Angela, a native New Jerseyan, absolutely takes offense to this position held by many Americans. In this episode, Brandon and Angela had a lot to talk about when it came to the Garden State. From produce - Jersey tomatoes and cranberry bogs - to breakfast meat - pork roll and Taylor ham - today's entry focused on Jersey and its journey to cannabis legalization. They explored a recent entry from 2020, as 67% of voting New Jerseyans indicated their support for adult-use cannabis. Mari provided commentary on masks, the beliefs of the remaining 33%, and the magic of the Jersey shore (the beach, not the show). If you ask them, though, it wasn't what the entry said that proved to be the most intriguing. It was a couple of notes in the margin, some instructions, and a 419.99 reference that grabbed their attention. Every diary entry prompts more questions than answers and this one definitely did just that! Did you know that you're invited to subscribe, so you never miss an episode? New episodes of "Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari" drop on the 4th and 20th each month.
Jun 4, 2023 · 39 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 11
Two entries in one day! Brandon and Angela covered a short, intriguing entry that left them with more questions than answers...137 questions to be exact. After that, they dove into an entry that explored one of the most infamous figures in the complex history of cannabis. Born on May 20, 1892, Harry Anslinger was the head of Federal Bureau of Narcotics (the predecessor agency to the DEA) for three decades. Mari's description of Anslinger and his influence made it clear just how she felt about him.
May 20, 2023 · 30 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 10
Everyone loves getting mail, even Mari. But it wasn't just the letter that made her day. While reviewing this entry, Brandon and Angela learned about the contributions that Garcia de Orta made to medicine and botany through his book, Coloquios dos Simples, e Drogas he Cousas Mediçinais da India. Angela came ready to share her research about Portugual and Fado music and why Garcia de Orta has been celebrated over time. Don't forget, you're always invited to subscribe. New episodes of "Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari" drop on the 4th and 20th of each month.
May 4, 2023 · 28 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 9
Brandon wanted to know more about hemp. That's exactly what he got, plus a bit more about Woody Harrelson and jello-salad. Towards the end of the 420 episode, Brandon asked Angela to find an entry about hemp in the diary. Again, she delivered. Mari wrote about her cousin Hemp and his feature in a Kentucky newspaper from 1948. While they explored the entry, they learned more about the family dynamic between Mari and her "strong, but silent" cousin and the importance of getting good information about cannabis out into the world. Want to learn more about hemp? We've got resources to share. Visit https://www.diaryofmari.com/ and sign up to receive some online resources. Don't forget to subscribe to "Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari" wherever you get your podcasts; new episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of the month. Have a listen, have a smoke, have a bit of history and fun conversation brought right to your inbox.
Apr 20, 2023 · 51 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 8
For cannabists everywhere, it's a special day! During Episode 7, Brandon challenged Angela to find an entry that provided some insight, from Mari's perspective, about 420. She certainly delivered! In this entry from 2010, Mari praises a Huffington Post article that explores the origin of the 420 code. Most people assume it comes from a police code or a legal abbreviation of sorts. We learn, through journalist Ryan Grim's careful investigation, that the origins are likely much more...simple, delightfully simple. (There might even be a reference to a treasure map!) Brandon and Angela read all about what Mari had to say about concerts and what they do for a community as well as what several notable cannabists, including bassist Phil Lesh, said about the origins of those three special numbers. This is a great episode to roll one, grab a few friends, get comfy, and settle in for a diary entry all about the best time of the day. New episodes drop on the 4th and 20th (well, duh - when else would they drop?), so be sure to subscribe.
Apr 4, 2023 · 40 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 7
Mari appreciates a presenter who appeared on the “TEDS.” Well, a TEDx Talk, actually.On this episode, Angela and Brandon take a break from the more distant past and opt to explore a recent diary entry dated April 27, 2019. Mari described attending the University of Oregon Tedx Talk featuring Dr. Rachel Knox, an Endocannabinologist and Cannabinoid Medicine Specialist. Mari was obviously impressed by all of the valuable information that Dr. Knox shared about the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the basics about how it works. Mari knew quite a few people at the event, but focused on Dr. Knox and her truth-telling. Brandon and Angela were able to learn about how the ECS functions, how it interacts with the other systems, and why there’s such little talk about it in everyday life. They also acknowledged a tremendous loss that recently occurred in the world of cannabis studies, the passing of Dr. Raphael Mechoulam. An Israeli chemist and professor, he has often been referred to as the father of cannabis research and study. Before wrapping up, Brandon challenged Angela to find something elucidatory information about the origin of the "420" term. She accepted even before he was able to finish his sentence. If you’re hoping to learn more about why 420 represents cannabis or just wanting to hear some interesting discussion about Mari’s experiences, subscribe to “Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari," the best cannabis storytelling podcast out there. New episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of each month.
Mar 20, 2023 · 31 min
Use This As You See Fit: The Diary of Mari, Episode 6
When one puts fountain pen and ink to paper... On this episode, Angela and Brandon reviewed an entry about “Therapeutical Uses and Toxic Effects of Cannabis Indica,” and learned that the title and the rest of the op-ed-style response in The Lancet - written by JR, better known as Sir John Russell Reynolds (personal physician for some very regal patients) let the wicked mic drop. He unequivocally states, “Indian Hemp, when pure and administered carefully, is one of the most valuable medicines that we possess.” The list of conditions and diseases that Sir Reynolds and others like Dr. William Brook O’Shaughnessy used cannabis to treat was considerable. For hundreds of years, cannabis was used to alleviate pain and suffering and provide a safe way to help patients manage unpleasant, uncomfortable, and unbearable symptoms. If you’re looking for more insight on why Indian Hemp was included in the Royal Gardens or just how many ailments and illnesses harnessed the power of hemp as a treatment, then this episode is a cure for your curiosity. Don’t forget to subscribe – new episodes drop on the 4th and 20th of each month. Remember, podcasts are a fun solo activity, but are sometimes even better when you tune in with a friend, especially someone in your circle that might benefit from a little nugget of cannabis history.