Matt Robertson is joined by Ryan Connolly, founder of Grassroots clothing, to share the origin story of his company and how it started as a documentary film about California’s cannabis culture, but pivoted to merchandise when faced with challenges.

Ryan discusses navigating the evolving legal landscape, the impact of COVID-19, and building a community through collaborations with artists and musicians. He recounts memorable moments, like smoking with Method Man and the legal battle over his “Break Room” smoking lounge. Throughout, Ryan emphasizes the importance of adaptability, staying true to Grassroots’ counterculture roots, and fostering strong relationships with his team and customers.

GrassrootsCalifornia.com
Instagram: @grassrootscalifornia

Matt Robertson is joined by Evan Mann from Bear Mountain Studios to discuss his journey as a glass artist.

He shares the challenges of navigating code enforcement issues and building a new commercial studio in Colorado Springs. Evan explains his innovative sales and marketing strategies, including a Patreon subscription model that offers exclusive access and giveaways. He emphasizes the importance of educating and connecting with his audience through platforms like his podcast. Evan also provides insights into his creative process, product development, and the evolution of his flagship RBR design. Throughout the conversation, Evan highlights the value of consistency, hard work, and staying true to one’s vision in building a successful glass art business.

WHAT’S UP EVERYBODY PODCAST:
‪@BearMountainStudios‬
Instagram: ‪@BearMountainStudios‬
Website: bmsglass.com

Matt Robertson is joined by Jeremy from Harmony Extracts, a concentrate company specializing in hash and live resin to discuss, sativa or indica (?), and how terpenes impact the effects of cannabis beyond just THC content.

He also critiques the oversimplified sativa/indica categorization used in dispensaries and emphasizes the benefits of consuming concentrates, which preserve more of the plant’s natural terpene profile. The conversation covers topics like pheno hunting, exotic genetics, and the health advantages of low-temperature dabbing. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the science and nuances of the cannabis industry.

Harmony Extracts:
Instagram: @harmony_extracts
Website: harmonyextracts.com

Kim Thomas Zii

Matt Robertson is joined by glass artist Kim Thomas to discuss the joys and challenges of creative collaborations as well her unique “trashism” style, which finds beauty in discarded objects and explores the stories behind them.

They also discuss the importance of compatibility, staying calm, and learning from each other during the collaborative process. They recount the making of their latest joint piece, a Honda Ruckus-inspired sculpture, highlighting the adrenaline, unpredictability, and ultimate satisfaction of bringing their visions to life together. The conversation offers valuable insights for aspiring collaborators looking to forge meaningful artistic partnerships.

Matt Robertson is joined by his wife Kyle Robertson to talk about their journey from meeting in college to having entrepreneurial success building a successful glass art business.

They discuss their early entrepreneurial ventures, the transition to pipe-making, and their move from Canada to the United States. The conversation covers challenges they faced, including a customs seizure that prompted their relocation, as well as the long immigration process. Throughout their story, the couple’s passion for glass art and entrepreneurship shines through, offering insights into their creative partnership and the ups and downs of building a business across borders.

Matt Robertson is joined by Vincent Gordon, a multifaceted painter and creator known for his vibrant, intricate style.

Vincent shares how isolation and personal growth shaped his unique visual language, from his early days drawing in church to embracing live painting challenges. He discusses the importance of collaboration, both in his creative process and in empowering other artists. Vincent also reflects on the impact of the pandemic, which allowed him to slow down and reconnect with his passion.

Guest:
Instagram: @vincentgordon
Website: vincentgordon.com

Matt Robertson is joined by Joe Palec to discuss his unique doodle-inspired artwork, and why he wants his viewers to stare at his doodle art for hours.

Joe shares how he creates immersive, story-driven murals, including the vibrant piece he painted in Matt’s shop. The conversation covers Joe’s creative process, his work with the Selfie Museum, and a major mural project on Sunset Boulevard. Joe and Matt also explore the possibility of future collaborations, including a potential bathroom mural. Throughout, the hosts and guest provide insights into their artistic journeys, the power of community, and the importance of finding inspiration in the everyday.

Guest:
Instagram: @joepalec
Website: joepalec.com

Matt Robertson is joined by photographer Scott Southern from Boro Vision to discuss his journey into the world of glass photography.

Scott discusses the unique challenges of capturing the reflective nature of glass, his innovative lighting techniques, and the stories behind some of his most memorable photo shoots. From collaborating on the “This is a Pipe” book to navigating legal issues with a shipment of Mothership glass, Scott’s experiences offer a behind-the-scenes look at the art of glass photography. The conversation also touches on the complexities of copyright and licensing, providing valuable insights for artists and photographers in the industry.

Guest:
Instagram: @borovision
Jay Cases: @jaycasesoffical
Website: jaycases.com