iHemp Hour
The iHemp Hour is a recurring educational series that features authentic dialogue between industry leaders, farmers, and policy advocates regarding the latest shifts in the hemp world. Each episode explores the diverse facets of the industry—from regenerative cultivation and building materials to market trends and federal regulations—providing a realistic and professional platform for knowledge sharing. This program serves as a critical repository of insights for those navigating the evolving landscape of industrial hemp.
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Hemp breeding expert Jeff Kostuik announces the merger of Hemp Genetics International and Tritium to form Verve Seed Solutions—and predicts hybrid varieties will double grain yields within 2-3 years. With 23 years of experience and leadership in both the Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance and Hemp Industries Association, Kostuik shares what American farmers can learn from Canada’s mature hemp industry: no field THC testing, no license fees, and yields of 1,000-2,000 lbs/acre. Plus: practical advice on dual-purpose crops, carbon credits, certified seed, and why 2022 is the year to start learning hemp while commodity prices are high.
Can hemp compounds really help prevent COVID-19? Cannabinoid expert Annie Rouse joins iHemp Hour to break down the viral Oregon State University study that found CBDA and CBGA—acidic cannabinoids from hemp—can bind to the coronavirus spike protein and potentially block infection. Learn what the research actually shows, why standard CBD products are different from the compounds studied, and what consumers should realistically expect. Plus: the science behind CBDA’s anti-inflammatory properties and why the “mother cannabinoid” CBGA may be the next big thing in hemp wellness.
Carbon credits could quadruple in price over the next decade—and hemp farmers are uniquely positioned to benefit. Panxchange experts Seth Boone and Alex Molesko join iHemp Hour to explain how carbon credits work, why hemp’s multiple sequestration pathways (soil, plant biomass, and permanent end uses like hempcrete) make it ideal for carbon projects, and how farmers can earn $15-$25+ per ton of CO2 removed. Learn the five steps to start a carbon project, what auditors look for, and why this value-added revenue stream rewards regenerative farming practices. Contact carbon@panxchange.com to get started.
Hemp Industries Association Executive Director Jody McGinnis joins iHemp Hour to discuss the organization’s 30-year legacy, the 2021 board elections, the ongoing DEA legal battle, and why 2022 may finally be the breakthrough year for hemp fiber. Learn how the HIA’s industry councils are connecting farmers with processors, what it takes to raise the THC limit to 1%, and how you can get involved with the most democratic trade organization in the hemp industry. Visit theHIA.org or JoinHemp.org to join the movement.
Scott Colville of Colville Crop Insurance explains how Michigan hemp farmers can protect their investment with crop insurance—and what it takes to qualify. Learn the requirements, deadlines, and coverage options before March 15th.
Creating a Reliable Supply Chain of Carbon-Negative Hemp Materials
by Dave Crabill
/ January 13, 2022
More than 60% of North American injection molding capacity sits within 100 miles of the Great Lakes. That’s why Heartland Hemp Company—a biotech firm engineering hemp fibers for plastics—planted their flag right here in Michigan. In this iHemp Hour episode, we explore their USDA-funded carbon research, why Fortune 500 companies are paying attention, and what it means for Michigan farmers and manufacturers.
The Results of Varietal Trials
by Dave Crabill
/ January 6, 2022
University researchers from MSU and the University of Illinois share the first multi-state hemp trial results for CBD, grain, and fiber genetics. The 2021 data reveals which varieties stay compliant, which ones go hot, how different cultivars yield across locations, and why CBG may offer growers the safest path forward. Essential insights for anyone planting hemp in 2022.
Eurofins explains how validated, AOAC-certified cannabinoid potency testing is helping standardize the hemp industry. Their award-winning method ensures accurate CBD, THC, and minor cannabinoid results across plant material, extracts, edibles, and topicals—protecting brands, consumers, and product integrity.
The Grain and Fiber Side of the Industry
by Dave Crabill
/ December 9, 2021
Lancaster Farming podcast host Eric Hurlock joins the iHemp Hour to share what he learned during a six-week, cross-country RV journey visiting America’s emerging grain and fiber hemp industry. From Kentucky’s HempWood factory to Kansas’ growing supply chain, Montana’s landmark hemp summit, and hempcrete builds in the Dakotas, Eric documents the people, places, and innovations shaping the future of industrial hemp. This episode is a coast-to-coast look at the real power of hemp—and the farmers building the foundations of a new American industry.
Icon Processors joins the iHemp Hour to share how they’re reshaping Michigan’s extraction and manufacturing landscape—from large-scale ethanol processing and mold remediation to turnkey white labeling, biodiesel-powered facilities, and next-generation CGMP expansion. Dr. Fabio Rhody and Christina Caschetti reveal what’s coming in 2022, including CBD intimacy products, high-milligram formulations, and their plans for a 50,000 sq. ft. cannabis manufacturing facility with 4.5 million sq. ft. of grow. This is a must-watch for anyone in hemp or cannabis processing.