Robin Goldstein and Daniel Sumner, "Can Legal Weed Win?: The Blunt Realities of Cannabis Economics" (U California Press, 2022)

Robin Goldstein and Daniel Sumner, "Can Legal Weed Win?: The Blunt Realities of Cannabis Economics" (U California Press, 2022)

Ever wondered why legal cannabis hasn't quite hit the mark? In this episode, economists Robin Goldstein and Daniel Sumner from UC Davis tackle the harsh realities of the legal weed industry. They dive into why tax revenues are lagging, investors are disappointed, and why the black market is still thriving despite legalization. With witty and accessible language, they break down complex economic issues and share their firsthand experiences working with California cannabis regulators since 2016.

You'll hear about the ups and downs of the industry, from the early days of medical dispensaries to the COVID-19 consumption boom. They also touch on the social justice aspects of legalization, discussing how to right past wrongs and the potential for medical cannabis and pharmaceuticals. If you're curious about the true state of legal weed and what needs to change, this episode offers a no-nonsense look at an industry in flux.