James Loud Podcast

In this episode of the James Loud Podcast, James sits down with Dale Sky Jones, Executive Director of Oaksterdam University, for a wide-ranging conversation on education, policy, innovation, and the future of plant-based industries worldwide. Dale has been a driving force behind Oaksterdam’s evolution into the most respected training institution in the space, helping thousands of students, operators, and professionals prepare for what’s next through real-world instruction and expert-led programs.James and Dale dive deep into how education is changing, why hands-on experience matters more than theory, and how Oaksterdam continues to lead by adapting its curriculum, technology, and delivery model to meet a rapidly shifting landscape. They also reflect on legacy, community, and why learning never stops—especially in industries shaped by regulation, science, and culture.This episode also highlights James Loud’s advanced breeding and cultivation courses, now available through Oaksterdam University. James breaks down what students can expect from his live and on-demand classes, why transparency and knowledge-sharing are critical, and how these programs are helping shape the next generation of growers, creators, and innovators around the world.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow Oaksterdam:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oaksterdamuniversity/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.

Get ready for a deep-dive conversation on the James Loud Podcast with special guests Nam Tran and Shea Ryan, the visionary founders behind The Network Show — one of the most buzzed-about industry events for professionals looking to build meaningful connections and drive growth. Nam and Shea created The Network Show to cut through the noise and give brands and buyers a platform where real business gets done and relationships are built with purpose and intention. In this episode, we talk all things strategy, scaling, community, and what it really takes to build an event that keeps getting bigger and better each year. From humble beginnings to sold-out floors and packed agendas, The Network Show has become the go-to event for forward-thinking entrepreneurs and operators nationwide.Plus, Nam and Shea break down their newest initiative: High Supply — a dedicated sourcing show happening April 29 & 30. Designed as the ultimate resource hub, High Supply connects businesses with the tools, partners, and products they need to innovate and expand. Whether you’re sourcing materials, forming supply partnerships, or scouting trends, this show is shaping up to be a can’t-miss spring event.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow The Network Show:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/network_show/Follow The High Supply Show:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highsupplyshow/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.

In this episode of the James Loud Podcast, we sit down with Anna Willey, the visionary founder of CAM (short for "California Artisanal Medicine"), a California-based brand known for its commitment to clean, high-quality flower and socially conscious operations. Anna has carved out a reputation in the industry as a trailblazer for transparency, innovation, and equity—building CAM into a vertically integrated operation that emphasizes indoor quality, boutique standards, and female leadership.Based in Sacramento, CAM is known for its premium offerings and unique phenos that cater to connoisseurs and newcomers alike. Under Anna’s leadership, CAM has become a household name among boutique producers and a model for sustainable, community-focused business practices. In this conversation, Anna shares her path from passionate patient advocate to successful entrepreneur, detailing the challenges and triumphs of scaling a purpose-driven company in today’s evolving market.Whether you’re a longtime industry insider or someone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling from passionate operators, this episode delivers insight, humor, and inspiration from one of the most respected names in the game.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow CAM:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camstr007/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.

In this episode of the James Loud Podcast, James sits down with Alec Dixon, one of the original co-founders of SC Labs, a pioneer in testing and quality assurance for plant-based products. With a background in environmental science and a passion for product transparency, Alec has helped shape the landscape of third-party testing, pushing for consumer safety, industry integrity, and deeper understanding of terpenes and active compounds.SC Labs, founded in 2010 in California, has grown into a national leader in testing with labs operating across the U.S. Their mission goes beyond just compliance—they champion education and scientific literacy around what defines a quality product. Alec shares insights on how SC Labs developed the Chemotype classification system, which moves past outdated categories and instead uses terpene and compound profiles to define experiences more accurately.This conversation dives deep into the origins of SC Labs, the evolution of testing standards, and Alec’s personal journey through activism, science, and environmental stewardship. Whether you're a connoisseur, cultivator, or advocate for transparency, this episode offers a rare window into the future of how we understand and talk about the products we consume.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow SC Labs:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sclabs_us/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.

On this episode of the James Loud Podcast, we sit down with Judi Nelson, co-founder of Sol Spirit Farm and Retreats, to talk about her passion for regenerative living, farming, and community-focused wellness.From the heart of Northern California’s lush hills, Judi shares how Sol Spirit’s solar-powered, off-grid retreat center is built around a mission of harmony with nature and sustainable practices. Alongside her husband Walter, Judi has been leading efforts in regenerative agriculture, offering immersive retreats, glamping experiences, and guided explorations that connect people to the land, the sun, and their inner selves. Their farm grows beyond just plants — it cultivates relationships, self-awareness, and ecological stewardship.This episode also highlights Sol Spirit’s seasonal favorite — the 12 Jays of X-Mas Holiday Gift Box — a unique and festive offering designed to spark joy and elevate the holidays. Judi walks us through the inspiration behind the gift box, what’s inside, and how it supports small-batch, sungrown cultivators.Whether you're into sustainable lifestyle, regenerative farming, or just appreciate heartfelt stories from inspiring individuals, this episode delivers an uplifting conversation that embodies the spirit of Sol Living. Tune in and discover how Judi is weaving together community, wellness, and a better future — one harvest at a time.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow Sol Spirit:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solspiritretreats/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.