Episode 18: Sowing Intentions: 2023 Year In Review

Episode Summary:

Dive into 2023’s final episode of The Plant. Body. Soul. Podcast as hosts Jen and Gordon, along with Content Director Tayla, embark on a spirited journey through reflections, resolutions, and futuristic tech wonders. Join the trio in setting vibrant intentions for 2024, exploring unconventional "stop doing" lists, and uncovering the secrets behind mindful alcohol consumption. Discover the power of individual freedom as Tayla champions authenticity and self-acceptance, fostering a mindset that rejects conformity. The conversation takes an exhilarating turn as they delve into the transformative potential of AI, quantum computing, and Google Gemini. It's a tech-fueled finale that sparks curiosity and invites you to stay open to change. Don't miss this captivating episode brimming with insights, laughter, and a heartfelt thank you to Plant Body Soul's dedicated listeners. Tune in for an unforgettable send-off into the promising horizon of 2024!

Show Notes:

Segment 1: Opening Reflections

Timestamp: [00:01:00 - 00:02:20]

  • Jen, Gordon, and Tayla welcome guests to the podcast, share their thoughts on the swift passage of time, and discuss the potential impact of AI technology on aging.

Segment 2: Favorite Events of the Year

Timestamp: [00:02:48 - 00:05:50]

  • The team reflects on PBS events, citing highlights like the Galentine's event from Pause Consumption and Friday Highday After Dark.

  • Tayla expresses her enjoyment of the Weedmaps-sponsored podcast confessional booth at the latest Friday Highday After Dark.

Segment 3: Personal Wins and Losses

Timestamp: [00:06:16 - 00:09:00]

  • Tayla humorously acknowledges frequent illness, finding a silver lining in self-discovery during downtime.

  • Jen delves into her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of personal clarity, authenticity, and the joy of falling in love in 2023.

  • Gordon shares his personal wins, including establishing a daily meditation practice and reaching 5,000 miles on his Onewheel.

Segment 4: Tayla's Summer Adventures

Timestamp: [00:12:44 - 00:15:08]

  • Tayla recounts her unexpected summer travels, attributing her adventurous spirit to a combination of upbringing, zodiac sign, and personal determination.

  • Tayla emphasizes the lesson learned: If you truly desire something, you'll find a way to make it happen, even if it requires stepping out of your comfort zone.

Segment 5: Jen's Connection to Source

Timestamp: [00:15:08 - 00:18:00]

  • Jen reflects on the power of connecting with Source and manifesting desires by being clear, forgiving oneself, and focusing energy.

  • She stresses the importance of remembering one's true self underneath mistakes and insecurities and shares the impact of rediscovering her connection to Judaism.

Segment 6: Gordon's "Be First" Philosophy

Timestamp: [00:18:00 - 00:22:28]

  • Gordon introduces the "be first" mindset, encouraging initiating connections with others and taking the first step in various situations.

  • He shares a personal story of how putting himself out there at a conference led to unexpected connections, friendships, and professional collaborations in the cannabis industry.

Segment 7: Industry Impact and Changes

Timestamp: [00:23:21 - 00:25:34]

  • Gordon explores the most impactful changes in the industry, prompting Tayla to discuss the transformations in both the cannabis and social media realms.

  • Tayla highlights the growing consistency and quality in the cannabis market, contrasting it with the dynamic and ever-changing nature of social media.

  • Emphasis on the rise of radical authenticity in 2023, bringing about a leveling of the playing field for individuals from various backgrounds and statuses.

Segment 8: Social Media Platforms and Authenticity

Timestamp: [00:25:35 - 00:28:28]

  • Tayla delves into the evolving landscape of social media, pointing out platforms like TikTok and newcomers like Lemon8 that prioritize authenticity over aesthetics.

  • The discussion touches on the shift in user preference towards platforms that reward genuine creativity, potentially indicating a positive future for social media.

  • The struggle of traditional platforms like Instagram, which emphasize aesthetics and status, to keep up with the demand for authenticity is highlighted.

Segment 9: The Impact of AI in 2023

Timestamp: [00:27:34 - 00:32:58]

  • Gordon and Tayla express awe at the continuous advancements in AI throughout the year and its positive effects on various industries, particularly in marketing.

  • Tayla emphasizes the transformative role of AI as a tool that allows individuals to focus on what authentically makes them human by handling mundane tasks.

  • The discussion expands to the intersection of AI and psychedelics, with Jen adding insights into the progress and mainstream acceptance of psychedelic research.

Segment 10: Psychedelic Renaissance and Functional Mushrooms

Timestamp: [00:32:21 - 00:34:34]

  • The conversation shifts to the remarkable progress in psychedelics and the increasing acceptance of their therapeutic benefits.

  • Gordon, Jen, and Tayla express anticipation for a psychedelic renaissance, envisioning a collective awakening and shift towards a more mindful and connected existence.

  • Functional mushrooms gain attention, with Tayla citing the local popularity of Tribe Mycelium and the rising demand for brain-enhancing mushrooms like lion's mane and reishi.

Segment 11: Future Trends in Marketing and Cannabis

Timestamp: [00:33:34 - 00:37:14]

  • Jen initiates a discussion about trends anticipated in the marketing world and the cannabis industry for 2024.

  • Gordon foresees a trend of increased destigmatization around cannabis and improved accessibility. He applauds innovative ads, citing Mood Cannabis and the Solo Stove ad featuring Snoop Dogg as noteworthy examples.

  • Tayla emphasizes the power of targeted advertising, using the Snoop Dogg ad as a prime example. She discusses the success of ads resonating with specific audiences, contributing to a successful year for advertising.

Segment 12: Highlights of 2023 and Predictions for 2024 

Timestamp: [00:36:58 - 00:40:50]

  • The team reflects on significant events in 2023, specifically noting the introduction of cannabis beverages in stores alongside alcohol. The Solo Stove ad campaign with Snoop Dogg is highlighted for its brilliance.

  • Tayla expresses excitement about the continued rise of micro-influencers, emphasizing their authenticity and ability to connect with audiences. The integration of AI empowers micro-influencers to advocate for fair compensation.

  • The team discusses the increasing awareness of mental health and the role of alternative therapies, including psychedelics and cannabis, in providing options for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and isolation.

Segment 13: Looking Forward to 2024 

Timestamp: [00:41:10 - 00:47:46]

  • Jen shares her enthusiasm for creating wellness-oriented retreats, focusing on providing safe spaces for individuals to explore transformative experiences.

  • Jen describes a safe space as a judgment-free, secure environment where individuals can be vulnerable, authentic, and feel supported by experienced professionals.

  • Jen emphasizes the importance of responsible practices in psychedelic spaces, including the inclusion of qualified professionals with tangible research and training.

  • Tayla discusses the mental health renaissance, highlighting the increasing popularity of alternative therapies and the availability of various plant medicines, including cannabis and psychedelics.

  • The team explores the potential of cannabis, including non-psychoactive compounds like CBD, in positively impacting mental health, acknowledging the need for further research.

Segment 14: Gratitude and Excitement for 2024 

Timestamp: [00:47:46 - 00:48:34]

  • Gordon expresses gratitude for the opportunities presented in 2024, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the convergence of authenticity, AI, and psychedelics in various industries.

  • The team collectively looks forward to the positive changes and possibilities that 2024 may bring, aligning with the themes of authenticity, mental health awareness, and transformative experiences.

Segment 15: New Year's Resolutions and Intentions

Timecode [00:47:06:50 - 00:49:48:50]

  • Jen expresses her preference for intentions over resolutions, focusing on love, courage, and consciousness. Tayla and Gordon share their thoughts on New Year's resolutions.

  • Gordon introduces the concept of a "stop doing list" as an alternative to traditional resolutions. Tayla and Jen discuss the importance of self-awareness and aligning actions with personal values.

Segment 16: Reflecting on Personal Habits

Timecode [00:50:00:50 - 00:51:56:50]

  • Gordon discusses his awareness of alcohol consumption and the evolving relationship with it. 

  • Tayla emphasizes the importance of honoring one's personality and being authentic. She discusses her commitment to doing what she wants without external pressures, fostering self-acceptance.

Segment 17: Embracing Individual Freedom

Timecode [00:52:00:50 - 00:53:04:50]

  • Tayla shares her tendency to resist being told what to do, even by herself, and how it influences her approach to resolutions. The team discusses the importance of individual freedom and self-acceptance.

  • Tayla expresses her intention to continue doing what she wants, embracing individuality, and giving herself a break from self-imposed expectations.

Segment 18: Leveraging Technology for Learning

Timecode [00:53:12:50 - 00:55:44:50]

  • Tayla encourages utilizing technology, particularly AI, for self-education. She highlights the abundance of knowledge accessible through AI, audiobooks, and other platforms.

  • Gordon introduces advancements like quantum computing and Google Gemini, emphasizing the need to stay open to technological changes. He discusses the potential impact on computing and AI capabilities.

Segment 19: Metaglasses and Staying Open to Change

Timecode [00:55:48:50 - 01:01:56:50]

  • Tayla expresses interest in metaglasses, discussing their potential for enhancing everyday life through augmented reality. The team explores the evolving landscape of technology and its impact on daily experiences.

  • Gordon emphasizes the importance of staying open to change, being adaptable, and embracing new technologies. The team shares their excitement for the future and thanks the listeners for their support throughout the year.


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Tony Jensen