James Loud Podcast EP #39 - Luke Scarmazzo

In this powerful episode of the James Loud Podcast, we are joined by Luke Scarmazzo, author of "High Price" and a passionate advocate for justice reform. Luke shares his emotional and gripping story of starting a state-legal medical dispensary in California in the early 2000s, only to face a 21.8 year sentence in federal prison due to conflicting state and federal laws. His journey, which began with aspirations of participating in a burgeoning industry, took a dramatic turn, leading to a decade-long battle behind bars and a fight for policy reform. Luke's story is not just about personal trials; it reflects a broader struggle for legal consistency and social equity in the industry. This episode promises to be an eye-opening and deeply moving account of resilience, change, and the ongoing quest for justice in the face of adversity. Luke's firsthand experiences and insights are a must-listen for anyone interested in the complex interplay of entrepreneurship, law, and advocacy.

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Lukes Book: https://www.amazon.com/High-Price-Luke-Scarmazzo-Story-ebook/dp/B0CNPCHPFK

Produced by Gears and Grit
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Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction: Luke Scarmazzo's Journey and Legal Battle
05:00 - The Start of a State-Legal Medical Dispensary in California
10:00 - Facing a 21.8-Year Sentence: The Clash of State and Federal Laws
15:00 - The Early Days: Building a Business within the Legal Gray Area
20:00 - The Federal Crackdown: Raid, Trial, and Conviction
25:00 - Life Behind Bars: Fighting for Justice and Clemency
30:00 - The Role of Community Support in Luke's Fight for Freedom
35:00 - The Power of Writing: Documenting the High Price of Cannabis Advocacy
40:00 - Legal Reforms and the Continuing Battle for Policy Change
45:00 - Reflections on Freedom, Resilience, and the Future of Cannabis Legislation
50:00 - Closing Thoughts: The Ongoing Quest for Justice and Equity

About the James Loud Podcast:

The James Loud Podcast, hosted by James Loud, a renowned breeder, author, and advocate in the cannabis industry, dives deep into the intricate world of cannabis genetics and breeding with a distinctive culinary-inspired outlook. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James leverages his vast experience from co-founding Loud Seeds and securing multiple international cannabis awards, bringing unparalleled insights to each episode. In 2024, the podcast was honored as the Winner of Podcast of the Year by the International Cannabis Awards, a testament to its commitment to education, advocacy, and innovation in the cannabis sphere.

Every week, the podcast features a diverse array of guests from the cannabis industry and beyond, all united by their passion for the plant. The show focuses on expanding themes from James's book, "Cannabis Breeding: The Art and Science of Crafting Distinctive Cultivars," fostering a community rich in knowledge and appreciation for cannabis. Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the latest in cannabis genetics, breeding techniques, and industry trends, cementing our place at the forefront of cannabis culture and conversation.

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