David Buckley: Navigating the Complex World of Drug Regulation and Legalization
If our government would just realize they need to control the supply of drugs into this country, it's going to come.
Ever wondered what it's like to be at the forefront of the smoke and vape shop industry? In this episode of 'The Peace on Drugs', host Aaron Akulis sits down with David Buckley, the owner of The Pied Piper chain of headshops in North Carolina's mountains. Buckley opens up about his journey in the industry, offering a no-holds-barred look at the challenges and triumphs he's faced along the way.
From the perplexing world of synthetic cannabinoids to the nuances of Delta-9 THC versus Delta-8, Buckley shares his firsthand experiences and frustrations. He doesn't shy away from discussing the dangers of unregulated synthetic cannabinoids, which he describes as full agonists capable of causing overdoses. His candid take on how better regulation could potentially save lives is both eye-opening and thought-provoking. But it's not all about the products.
Buckley dives into the broader issues, including the high costs of medical care and the often frustrating lack of insurance coverage. He recounts his personal struggles, such as dealing with exorbitant medical bills for his wife's wisdom tooth extraction, highlighting the systemic problems within the healthcare industry. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Buckley talks about his recent experience with the psilocybin academy and his plans to explore psilocybin in future podcast episodes.
He believes in the transformative potential of psychedelics, not just for those with PTSD but also for enhancing meditation practices. Wrapping up, Buckley and Akulis discuss federal drug laws and the critical need for government control over drug supply to ensure safer products and fewer overdoses. This episode is a compelling mix of personal anecdotes and broader societal issues, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in drug regulation, legalization, and the ongoing war on drugs.