Show Notes
In this episode of the James Loud Podcast, James sits down with Dale Sky Jones, Executive Director of Oaksterdam University, for a wide-ranging conversation on education, policy, innovation, and the future of plant-based industries worldwide. Dale has been a driving force behind Oaksterdam’s evolution into the most respected training institution in the space, helping thousands of students, operators, and professionals prepare for what’s next through real-world instruction and expert-led programs.James and Dale dive deep into how education is changing, why hands-on experience matters more than theory, and how Oaksterdam continues to lead by adapting its curriculum, technology, and delivery model to meet a rapidly shifting landscape. They also reflect on legacy, community, and why learning never stops—especially in industries shaped by regulation, science, and culture.This episode also highlights James Loud’s advanced breeding and cultivation courses, now available through Oaksterdam University. James breaks down what students can expect from his live and on-demand classes, why transparency and knowledge-sharing are critical, and how these programs are helping shape the next generation of growers, creators, and innovators around the world.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow Oaksterdam:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oaksterdamuniversity/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.
More from James Loud Podcast
Episode 170 of the James Loud Podcast kicks off a brand-new summer farm tour series, taking you behind the scenes at some of California's most legendary cultivation facilities. James travels across Northern California to meet the passionate growers, breeders, and craftspeople producing some of the state's most celebrated flower, offering an exclusive look at the people, philosophy, and hard work behind award-winning farms.The first stop is Greenshock Farms, fresh off earning First Place at the California State Fair for their standout cultivar Pink Rider in the sun-grown category. The tour then heads to Decibel Gardens in Santa Cruz, where Marlon Asher joins James for an inside look at the home of Roswell 47, the cultivar that took top honors at Zalympics. Together, they explore the farm, hear the story behind the winning genetics, and meet the team responsible for producing some of California's finest flower.Whether you're a longtime enthusiast, a home grower, or simply appreciate seeing where world-class flower comes from, this series offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at California's premier cultivation community. This is just the beginning—stay tuned as the James Loud Podcast continues visiting more legendary farms, meeting iconic growers, and showcasing the people helping shape the future of premium cultivation.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudAbout the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.
Episode 169 of the James Loud Podcast is dedicated to the life and legacy of Parker Curtis, a beloved friend, grower, educator, and member of the community who tragically passed away at the age of 39 from a pulmonary embolism.Parker inspired thousands through his work with Homegrown Cannabis Co., where his passion for cultivation, generosity, and down-to-earth teaching style helped growers of every experience level. More importantly, he was the kind of person who made everyone around him feel welcome. His kindness, humor, and genuine love for people left a lasting impression on countless friends, colleagues, and viewers around the world.This special tribute begins with heartfelt memories from Parker's family, friends, and members of the community as they share stories about the man they knew and loved. Following those tributes, we are re-airing Episode 93 of the James Loud Podcast, Parker's original appearance on the show. It was an incredible conversation that deserves to be heard again, both by those who knew him personally and by those discovering Parker for the first time.Parker's legacy will continue to live on through the knowledge he shared, the people he inspired, and the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, and the world is a little dimmer without him in it.If Parker impacted your life and you're able to help, a GoFundMe has been established to support his wife during this incredibly difficult time. Every contribution, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated, and sharing the fundraiser can make a meaningful difference as well.Thank you, Parker, for everything you gave to this community. Rest easy, brother. You will never be forgotten.Please consider donating to the GoFundMe:https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-parker-curtiss-recoveryAbout the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.
Photographer Chris Romaine, founder of Kandid Kush, joins the James Loud Podcast for a deep conversation about photography, genetics, creativity, and the culture that surrounds the plant. Known for his breathtaking macro photography and focus-stacked imagery, Chris has spent more than a decade documenting some of the world's most sought-after cultivars, breeders, and hash makers. Through Kandid Kush, his work has become instantly recognizable for revealing details invisible to the naked eye, helping showcase the artistry and science behind modern cultivation.In this episode, James and Chris explore everything from focus stacking, macro photography, and photographing resin heads to traveling the world documenting legendary growers and unique cultivars. Chris shares how he turned a passion for photography into a full-time career, why lighting and composition matter more than expensive gear, and what it's like capturing plants at 20x magnification. The conversation also branches into favorite flavors, classic genetics, extracts, AI, creativity, philosophy, and how technology is changing both photography and cultivation.More than a conversation about cameras, this episode is about pursuing mastery. James and Chris discuss obsession, artistic growth, learning through failure, staying curious, and finding purpose by continually refining your craft. Whether you're into photography, breeding, cultivation, or simply appreciate conversations with creative people pushing their industries forward, this episode is packed with stories, technical insights, and inspiration from one of the most respected photographers in the space.Subscribe to the James Loud Podcast for conversations with the growers, breeders, photographers, and innovators shaping the future of modern cultivation.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow Kandid Kush:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandidkushProduced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Recorded by Benji BlancoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/_benjiblanco/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.
Brett of California Seed Bank returns to the James Loud Podcast for Part 2, picking up where his first appearance left off with an even deeper dive into breeding, genetics, and the story behind one of the most talked-about modern cultivars: Hashburger. As the founder of California Seed Bank, Brett has spent decades preserving elite genetics, developing award-winning cultivars, and helping growers around the world access stable, high-quality seed stock. His work has earned industry-wide recognition, including Leafly's 2025 Strain of the Year for Hashburger.This episode explores Brett's breeding philosophy, the evolution of the legendary Burger lineup, and what separates truly exceptional genetics from the rest. James and Brett discuss phenotype hunting, selection, structure, terpene profiles, resin production, and why breeding isn't just about chasing trends. It's about creating plants that perform consistently for growers while delivering a memorable experience. They also dive into the rise of OG Kush, the return of Grand Daddy Purple, old-school skunk genetics, and how modern breeding continues to build on decades of Northern California history.Brett also opens up about the deeply personal reason he began breeding in the first place: creating better genetics to help his wife after she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. That mission of helping patients and preserving exceptional genetics continues to guide California Seed Bank today, making this conversation about far more than awards or hype—it's about legacy, passion, and giving back to the community.Whether you're interested in breeding, cultivation, legendary genetics, or the future of premium flower, this episode is packed with practical knowledge and firsthand stories from one of the industry's most respected breeders.Subscribe to the James Loud Podcast for conversations with the growers, breeders, and pioneers shaping the future of cultivation.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow California Seed Bank:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_californiaseedbank/Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/Recorded by Benji BlancoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/_benjiblanco/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.
How do you roll the perfect joint?On this episode of the James Loud Podcast, James sits down with professional joint roller Jared "JaRolls" (Rolls by J) for an in-depth masterclass on the art, science, and craftsmanship behind a truly exceptional smoke. A respected roller known throughout the California scene for handcrafting premium joints and hash holes for top brands and live events, Jared has built a reputation for precision, consistency, and obsessive attention to detail.Together, James and Jared break down every step of the process—from choosing papers and tips to grind consistency, moisture content, airflow, packing techniques, and proper lighting methods. They compare rolling styles, debate paper brands, discuss premium genetics old and new, revisit the legendary days of High Times and Amsterdam, and share stories from decades spent immersed in the culture. Whether you're rolling at home or simply appreciate the craft behind a perfectly burning joint, this episode is packed with practical tips and decades of experience.If you're passionate about premium flower, pre-roll craftsmanship, hash holes, genetics, or the history of the culture, this is one of the most detailed conversations we've ever had on the subject. Hit subscribe for more interviews with the growers, breeders, creators, and innovators shaping the future of the industry.Follow James Loud:Instagram: https://instagram.com/JamesLoudInstagram: http://instagram.com/jamesloudpodcast/Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-loudFollow JaRolls:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jrat420Produced by Gears and GritInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gears.and.grit/About the James Loud Podcast:Hosted by award-winning breeder, author, and innovator James Loud, the show explores the art, science, and culture of modern plant genetics, sustainable cultivation, and community storytelling. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James brings decades of experience, creativity, and insight to every episode.In 2024, the show was honored as Podcast of the Year by the International Industry Awards for its commitment to education, storytelling, and innovation. Each week features voices from across the creative and agricultural worlds — all united by passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship.Join us on this award-winning journey as we explore the future of cultivation, creativity, and culture.