Cannabis Media Spotlight Series: Q&A with Kevin Carrillo, Host of Cannabinoid Connect

Welcome to the Cannabis Media Spotlight Series! We created this Q&A series to celebrate the incredible work that reporters, editors, and podcast hosts do to shed light on the cannabis industry. Their insights and stories play a vital role in shaping how this space is understood and appreciated by the world.

Our goal is to highlight their journey, their expertise, and the meaningful impact of their work.

This week we're featuring Kevin Carrillo, Host of Cannabinoid Connect, a podcast that dives into the evolving cannabis industry, featuring expert conversations on policy, innovation, and market trends. The goal? To educate, spark conversations, and keep audiences ahead of what’s next.

So what lead Kevin to this role in cannabis? And what does he do on a daily basis to educate the masses about the benefits of cannabis use? Take a look at the Q&A below to learn more:

What inspired you to start covering the cannabis industry, and how has your perspective evolved since you began?

I launched Cannabinoid Connect in 2020, recognizing a significant gap in intellectual and informed conversations around cannabis. This gap presented an opportunity to elevate the dialogue and engage audiences on a deeper level. Over time, my commitment has grown stronger as I continue to explore the complexities of the industry, shifting from merely reporting to actively analyzing and discussing its implications on society, business, and legislation.

What does a typical day look like for you as a journalist/editor/podcast host in the cannabis space?

My day is a blend of content creation, including producing original videos and curating third-party content for the Cannabinoid Connect TikTok channel, which boasts the largest audience in the industry with 56.5K followers and 1.1M likes. Mornings often start with news updates, followed by podcast recording or editing. Afternoons might include guest interviews or preparing insightful posts for social media, ensuring continuous engagement with our community.

What are some of the most compelling trends, stories, or issues in the cannabis industry right now that you think deserve more attention?

The potential health benefits of minor cannabinoids represent a fascinating trend, as does the critical issue of federal legalization and banking reform in the U.S. These topics not only affect business operations but also consumer safety and industry growth, warranting broader discussion and more thorough exploration. Additionally, I'm highly interested in the opportunities that industrial hemp presents, especially given its environmental benefits and versatility across multiple industries.

What advice would you give to cannabis businesses or PR professionals hoping to connect with you or pitch their stories effectively?

Effective pitches should be authentic, particularly when engaging with podcasts, and offer unique insights aligned with our audience’s interests. Clarity, relevance, and detailed information are key to understanding the story’s impact. Understanding what Cannabinoid Connect focuses on and personalizing your pitch can significantly increase its relevance and resonance.

What’s been one of the most memorable stories or moments in your career covering cannabis so far?

Hosting Jim Belushi and Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) on my podcast are highlights of my career, underscoring the broad and diverse impact of cannabis on various spheres. These experiences, along with the opportunity to interact with many hard-working and talented operators, have enriched my understanding of the industry. I eagerly look forward to producing more episodes and continuing these enlightening conversations in 2025.