In this dynamic episode of Adding Context, Dale Sky Jones, President and CEO of Oaksterdam University, shares her journey from corporate America to leading the charge in cannabis education and reform. She recounts founding Oaksterdam and her role as a Prop 19 spokesperson, which sparked global legalization efforts. Dale’s passion for equity drives her to empower diverse voices through hands-on training, turning students into courtroom-ready professionals who advance reform in states like NJ, CT, and LA. We also discussed federal barriers, such as banking restrictions, and shared her experiences briefing Congress on descheduling in 2025.

Despite personal challenges, from raids to family pressures, Dale’s commitment to restorative justice and education remains unshaken, with Oaksterdam’s 110,000 alumni as proof of impact. She urges listeners to support descheduling by contacting lawmakers and exploring Oaksterdam’s courses at oaksterdamuniversity.com. Follow updates on X for news on equity programs and an upcoming documentary. Dale’s story is a powerful call to action for a more equitable cannabis industry.

In this vibrant episode of Adding Context, Leigh Larson, the force behind @followtheleighder, shares the origin of her unique platform blending outdoor adventures, activism, and theological insights. From her theology degree to trekking various mountain ranges, Leigh reveals how her first big hike and seminary skills, like unpacking scripture, shaped her bold voice tackling women’s rights and religious nationalism. She discusses transforming trail chats into viral policy-shifting content, navigating online trolls, and dodging burnout by balancing vulnerability with an explorer’s joy. Her immersive approach, from crashing summits to live-streaming pilgrimages, amplifies marginalized voices while exposing manipulative tactics like fake spiritual retreats.

Leigh’s advocacy weaves spiritual literacy with equity, from LGBTQ+ inclusion to environmental justice, to safeguard democracy against rising theocratic pushes post-2024. Despite risks like doxxing and trail isolation, she keeps her community vibrant with rituals like post-hike toasts, fueled by unexpected allies and a viral thread toppling myths. Listeners can dive deeper at followtheleighder.com and follow her on Instagram for updates on her book tour and rally series. Leigh’s call to action: engage with her content, share your story, and challenge disinformation to join the fight for justice.

In this episode of Adding Context, Darbi Keene, a neurodivergent therapist and founder of Walking with Wildflowers, shares her inspiring journey. Based in Missouri, her virtual practice offers neuroaffirming therapy and adult autism assessments, empowering neurodivergent adults to embrace their identities. Tune in to explore how Darbe’s lived experience shapes her compassionate approach and drives her mission to make mental health care accessible. Feel free to visit Walking with Wildflowers. #Neurodiversity #AutismAcceptance #MentalHealth #NeuroaffirmingTherapy #Neurodivergent