The state and struggle of the psychedelics reform community and efforts to educate the public, with Leo Russell

The state and struggle of the psychedelics reform community and efforts to educate the public, with Leo Russell

Author: Cannabis Radio February 17, 2026 Duration: 30:04

Leonora, or “Leo” Russell, is a Marriage and Family therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor who left a twenty-year career in government and social services, and providing direct services to the most disenfranchised, to direct her attention to the burgeoning psychedelic renaissance. In 2019, she began leading the Decriminalize Nature effort in Seattle and moved on to form the Political Action Group ADAPT-WA, a voter-based initiative focused on legalizing psilocybin and decriminalizing small amounts of entheogens for personal use. She also runs a 501c3 called Entheo Society, focused on creating community in the psychedelic space.

Leo is currently writing, directing, and filming in Idaho for The Psychedelic Road Trip movie (a comedy/documentary about Dana Beal (who has been on this show) and Idaho and the Plant Medicine Movement) and is organizing (with others) the largest plant-medicine educational event in Idaho’s history on Feb. 22nd at the Boise Depot. 



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Each week on Hempresent, Vivian McPeak-widely known as the Hemposapien and the founder of Seattle Hempfest-creates a space where conversation about cannabis is rooted in substance and history, not just headlines. This isn't a series of monologues; it's a dynamic exchange, a platform where guests and the community itself can engage deeply with the plant's complex journey. You'll hear discussions that trace the legal, activist, and reformist pathways shaping cannabis and hemp today, moving beyond simple celebration to examine the real work being done. Produced by Cannabis Radio, the podcast delves into how these issues intersect with broader societal and cultural currents, from law and policy to art and agriculture. The tone is informed and passionate, reflecting decades of advocacy. Tune in for a weekly dose of perspective that challenges stereotypes and explores the multifaceted role of cannabis in our world, all guided by a voice that has been part of the movement's foundation. It's about presenting the full story, with all its challenges and possibilities.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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