How to Deliver Drug Money to the Federal Reserve | Mike Hengstebeck | KONCRETE Podcast #22

TL;DR

The podcast discusses veterans' challenges with PTSD, cannabis advocacy, and the growth of security in the cannabis industry.

Transcript

cool so today on the podcast we have mike hanks de Becque if you have any extensive knowledge and experience in firearms military and most recently the cannabis business so how did you get started in all this it's been really an interesting journey with this whole thing it initially started with a friend of mine who was a special operations out of ... Read More

Key Insights

• 😣 Veterans experiencing PTSD often face severe side effects from traditional psychoactive medications, prompting a search for alternative treatments such as cannabis.
• ❓ The cannabis industry is being reshaped by veteran involvement and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of peer support among combat veterans.
• 👮 Recent changes in Florida's cannabis laws indicate progress, yet political opposition still poses significant barriers to full legalization.
• 💗 Successful cannabis businesses benefit both the economy and the job market, highlighting the financial potential of a growing industry.
• 😒 The status of cannabis as a Schedule I drug complicates the relationship between veterans, cannabis use, and access to medical care.
• 👮 Public perceptions of cannabis and its impacts on society are slowly changing, particularly within law enforcement communities, favoring a more progressive stance.
• 💗 Innovative processes in growing and processing cannabis are positively influencing product quality and consumer experience.

Questions & Answers

Q: What motivated Mike Hanks de Becque to enter the cannabis industry?

Mike was driven by a personal connection to veterans' struggles with PTSD, particularly a friend from the military. Observing the severe effects of psychotropic medications prescribed by the VA and the alarming rate of veteran suicides motivated him to seek alternative treatments, which led him to discover the potential benefits of cannabis.

Q: How does cannabis specifically help veterans with PTSD?

Cannabis provides a natural alternative to psychotropic medications, offering relief from anxiety, improving sleep quality, and reducing symptoms of PTSD. Mike shared a story of a veteran who experienced his first uninterrupted sleep in six years after using cannabis, showcasing its therapeutic impact in combating insomnia related to PTSD.

Q: What are the current challenges facing cannabis legalization in Florida?

Despite a significant voter mandate supporting medical cannabis use, bureaucratic hurdles and resistance from powerful politicians have slowed progress. The recent legislative changes have allowed for more possession and consumption options, but full recreational legalization remains a complex issue influenced by political interests and economic considerations.

Q: What role does Hard Car Security play in the cannabis industry?

Hard Car Security provides secure transportation services for cash and cannabis products to dispensaries in California and, soon, Florida. They utilize armored vehicles and employ combat veterans as security personnel to ensure safe and discreet transactions, enhancing safety in an increasingly cash-driven cannabis market.

Q: How is the cannabis industry changing law enforcement's approach?

Many law enforcement officials are gradually adopting a more progressive view of cannabis, recognizing that it does not typically lead to violent behavior. As understanding grows, there's a movement towards decriminalization, which reflects a shift in how police perceive cannabis users versus traditional criminality.

Q: What economic impacts have been observed since cannabis legalization in states like Colorado?

Colorado has experienced substantial economic growth since legalizing cannabis, with tourism increasing significantly and revenue generation soaring to approximately 1.5 billion dollars. New jobs, businesses, restaurants, and an overall boost in local economies highlight how cannabis can contribute positively to state finances.

Q: What future developments does Mike foresee for veterans and cannabis?

Mike believes that ongoing advocacy and changing perceptions will lead to improved access to cannabis for veterans, helping to reduce suicide rates and improve quality of life. Additionally, with legislative changes, veterans may have more opportunities to use cannabis without fear of jeopardizing their benefits or legal standing.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Mike Hanks de Becque shares his experience transitioning from military service to the cannabis industry, emphasizing the struggles veterans face with PTSD and the potential cannabis has for alleviating these issues.

• The discussion highlights the importance of camaraderie and support among veterans while addressing the stigma surrounding cannabis and its benefits as an alternative to traditional medications for managing PTSD symptoms.

• The podcast examines the evolving cannabis landscape in Florida, including recent legislative changes allowing for medical cannabis use and the implications for veterans, as well as the economic impacts observed in states with legalized cannabis.