Rescheduling Cannabis is Sending the Wrong Message to the Kids? – A Hard Look at Government Hypocrisy
A group of lawmakers recently sent Trump a letter urging him not to reschedule cannabis because it would send “the wrong message to the kids.” You know what? I actually agree that cannabis shouldn’t be rescheduled—but not for their reasons. Cannabis should be completely descheduled, removed from the Controlled Substances Act entirely, because it’s not a “substance” in the pharmaceutical sense. It’s a plant.
There are strains that trend for a season… And then there’s Blue Dream, the one hybrid that somehow shows up at every smoke circle, every road trip playlist, every creativity kick, and every “wait, did we just talk for three hours about parallel universes?” moment. What makes this strain different in 2025 is that more […]
The Tech Mogul Who Never Wants to Die Is Now Macrodosing Mushrooms
Original publication date: Nov 13. Update: Dec 10.
If there’s one ancient thing in this world, it’s the fear of death. Hundreds of practices (more or less grounded in reality) have developed throughout all civilizations to delay our final breath, countless myths and legends from around the world describe heroes cheating the Grim Reaper, not to mention the hypotheses about what comes after, a staple of any religion. But today, the old religions are dying, giving way to another cult: technology. What stays the same is the fear.
That’s where Bryan Johnson comes in: a multimillionaire CEO and founder of several tech companies, who made his mark in the public eye with his outlandish anti-aging and biohacking initiatives. How outlandish, you ask? We’re talking about blood plasma transfusions courtesy of his teenage son (which ultimately didn’t work as intended, but grossed sizable publicity), dozens of pills a day (somesources claim over 100), strict diets, and a highly controlled and monitored lifestyle. When we say “highly monitored,” we don’t mean that lightly: the tycoon has said he analyzes his own feces and nocturnal erections daily, among other variables. Currently, Johnson is placing his bets on artificial intelligence that records everything he says, hoping that, as AI evolves, it might one day translate into immortality.
Of course, Johnson doesn’t keep all his practices to himself: he shares his lifestyle on social media and sells supplements through his company, Blueprint. It should be noted that the effectiveness and benefits of such supplements have been questioned on several occasions. He has also starred in his own Netflix documentary, where he recounts how he spent millions of dollars to reverse aging and claims to have “reversed his biological age by 5.1 years.” Thus, the tycoon has described himself as “the healthiest person on the planet.” The validity of such a bold claim depends on each person’s definition of “health.” For now, several health professionals have spoken out to contradict him.
And what is the goal of such gargantuan efforts? Johnson not only says it, he puts it on a t-shirt he wears all the time: DON’T DIE. Simple. The catchphrase appears constantly: on his socials, his website, his products. It’s even the title of his documentary. The billionaire is apparently convinced that death is not only controllable and avoidable, but also voluntary. The “where there’s a will, there’s a way” ideology taken to the max.
After years of measuring every measurable variable in the human body, of performing invasive and painful procedures (such as electric shocks and Botox injections in the penis to “improve” erections, which he readily recommends), many of which are not widely studied or validated in mainstream medical research, Bryan Johnson has decided to add another factor to his controversial equation for staying young: magic mushrooms.
Inside Bryan Johnson’s Experiment with Magic Mushrooms
First things first: true to his background as a Silicon Valley tech mogul, Bryan Johnson is no stranger to the wonderful world of psychedelics. The tycoon and former Mormon has shared his positive experiences with substances like LSD, ketamine, and 5-MeO-DMT on severaloccasions. What’s more, he’s even tattooed the molecular structure of the latter on his arm. Therefore, it’s not at all surprising that he’s chosen psilocybin as the subject of his latest experiments.
This time, the influencer shared his intentions on social media, detailing that he planned to take nearly 5 grams of psilocybin mushrooms once a month for three months. Of course, the journey would be accompanied by measuring every variable under the sun, including (but not limited to!) 249 independent biomarkers, with analyses of DNA, brain waves, urine, feces, saliva, semen, hormones, microbiota, metabolism, various organ functions, cellular aging… The list is extensive. He also clarified the safety conditions of his journey: under professional medical supervision and within a legal framework.
His goal? To explore the effects of psilocybin, the active component of magic mushrooms, on longevity.
It’s worth noting that 5 grams of magic mushrooms is generally considered a strong dose, aptly named “heroic dose” due to its intensity. So, how did Bryan Johnson fare taking a heroic dose of magic mushrooms?
Last November, he shared the details of his first trip in a series of tweets. Many of those were written by Kate Tolo, co-founder of Blueprint, as Johnson was in no condition to use a phone or write any kind of sentence. Tolo described the entrepreneur’s behavior after the dose, noting that he was calm and emphasizing that he was “having a REALLY lovely time,” amidst laughter, visual hallucinations, and bursts of empathy. He also spoke about “the universe and how we’re all one”: indeed, the feeling of oneness, of being one with everything, is among the most typical experiences during mushroom trips.
After the trip, Brian Johnson’s first tweet read: “I’m just so happy to be alive.” In subsequent tweets, he stated that the experience had changed him, and that he felt changes in his mind and emotions.
Later, more recovered, the biohacker poured his thoughts and analysis into another series of tweets, in great detail. He emphasized that the experience was positive, highly sensory, and rejuvenating. He also related it to his particular philosophy regarding death and the future of humanity, reflecting that “we are about to start waking up from a slumber that has hypnotized us into accepting death”.
Later, Johnson shared the potential benefits that psilocybin could have on longevity, inflammation, fertility, neuroplasticity, and the gut microbiota. His intention seems to be to experience these benefits firsthand, measuring every possible variable in the name of science. We’ll have to wait for the next two doses he has planned to draw any conclusions, but for now, the CEO’s ambitions seem to be going full steam ahead.
For his second attempt, which took place almost a month later, the billionaire decided to broadcast the entire experience live via a five-and-a-half-hour livestream that has garnered over a million views. Another new element: in addition to Tolo and the medical team, several people joined the cast, including his son, various colleagues from his team, like-minded CEOs, journalists, and Grimes herself, who provided the music for the evening. Interestingly, the promotional material advertised the participation of YouTuber Mr. Beast, but he didn’t show.
Days later, Johnson again shared his biomarkers and more technical aspects of the psilocybin’s effects on his body through a series of tweets. He also described the experience as “one of the best days of his life,” expressing his deep gratitude to everyone who joined him. And she shared a reflection quite in line with the empathetic mood that mushrooms can generate, not very different from her thoughts after the first dose: “Life is very hard and everyone is trying their best. We also make life so much harder on ourselves and each her than is necessary. I have hope that a new era of human existence is just around the corner and we might just be able to wrestle our most destructive instincts and amplify the splendor.”
Editor’s note: It is important to note that psilocybin is not FDA-approved for longevity, and any potential health effects, positive or negative, remain the subject of preliminary research.
Mushrooms and the Illusion of Control
Brian Johnson says he isn’t afraid of death. That he has reconciled himself with it. Such a statement is bound to raise some eyebrows, considering not only all the superhuman efforts this man makes to avoid aging and dying, but also how he refers to death. Phrases like “people use death to shield from the disappointment of not experiencing the potential of life without the limitations of death” don’t exactly sound like someone who has found peace with their own mortality. Some observers have suggested that a desire for control might be a recurring theme in Johnson’s public persona, based on how he describes his routines and goals.
Some critics have interpreted Johnson’s intense self-monitoring as part of a broader pattern of seeking control; however, this interpretation is based on how his public statements and routines are portrayed in the media, not on any verified insight into his private relationships.
His public image is closely tied to his business ventures, and its management has been the subject of media coverage. According to a New York Timesinvestigation, several former employees said they were required to sign lengthy confidentiality agreements specifying what they could and could not disclose. The Times reported that these employees also said they were asked to affirm that they were comfortable with Johnson’s behavior—including clothing choices and personal discussions—and to agree in advance that such behavior was not “unwelcome, offensive, humiliating, hostile, triggering, unprofessional or abusive.”
The Times further reported that some employees felt declining these terms could jeopardize their jobs, and that several described feeling intimidated or pressured.
But why are we bringing all this up? Because one of the most interesting effects of entheogens, and mushrooms in particular, is the loosening of rigid mental mechanisms. Letting go of the ego, control, and one’s own beliefs is one of the most explored aspects by people who use mushrooms for personal growth and exploration. Many who consciously cultivate this practice feel their behavior soften, how harmful and rigid internal attitudes transform into more loving, empathetic, and flexible ones.
We do not know Bryan Johnson; we can only perceive a portrait based on newspaper articles and his own narrative, a fictional construct created around his persona. His profile is complex, like that of every person. But we dare suggest that taking entheogenic mushrooms might, in theory, help soften rigid control tendencies, from the possible (like his sleep schedule and calorie intake) to the impossible (the certainty that we will all die someday).
“Sometimes I think they’re right, that this has all gotten out of control and I need to calm down,” he says in one of his latest tweets. Could this be a sign of a profound change, the beginning of a softer, less rigid disposition? Only time, and perhaps the mushrooms, will tell.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information, such as Bryan Johnson’s public declarations, and journalistic investigations, including The New York Times. This article is for informational purposes and does not make factual claims beyond those sources, nor intend to pass judgment on the businessman’s personal life.
Cover photo by Katriece Ray for Kernel, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons (edited)
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2025 Cannabis Gear Gift Guide: Dab Rigs, Vapes, Glass, and Accessories
Find the perfect present for every cannabis enthusiast in your life
The holidays are here, and if you’re shopping for the cannabis lovers on your list, we’ve got you covered.
From new vape tech to museum-worthy art, premium concentrates to automated grow boxes, this year’s gift guide celebrates the best in cannabis culture.
Whether you’re shopping for the dabbing devotee who has every rig attachment or the curious newcomer ready to explore, these picks deliver quality, personality, and that special something that says “I get you.”
Your dabbing buddy probably has the Peak or Peak Pro. Now give them something that makes it uniquely theirs. HEMPER’s themed glass attachments transform functional gear into personality pieces, featuring a floating rubber duck, a psychedelic mushroom design, a Chinese takeout box, an astronaut helmet with a gold visor, or a classic popcorn bucket. All attachments feature functional percolation for smoother hits and come in themed gift boxes ready to wrap.
Pro tip: Universally compatible with both Peak and Peak Pro models.
For: The dabber who wants personality with their performance
This palm-sized concentrate device doesn’t compromise on flavor. The upgraded 3D Chamber heats from the sides for a better taste experience, while Bluetooth connectivity allows users to customize everything through the Puffco Connect App.
The best part? The modular design allows for the removable base to work with multiple glass attachments — from the included Sherlock-style pipe to water bubblers and third-party glassware. It arrives fully assembled in a premium carrying case with everything needed, ready to use out of the box.
Currently includes a free “Where’s the hash?” hat ($40 value).
Pro tip: This is the gateway to Puffco’s ecosystem — recipients can build their collection with additional glass pieces.
For: Tech-savvy dabbers, travelers, and anyone who wants retro-modern aesthetics and cutting-edge performance
If you’re looking for the ultimate showstopper, nothing compares to Stündenglass. This isn’t just a smoking device — it’s functional art that mesmerizes everyone in the room. The patented 360° rotating gravity-powered design uses no batteries or electronics. Rotate 180° while lighting, and gravity creates the vacuum. Rotate back, and gravity forces smoke through for contactless delivery. The water cascading display alone is worth the price of admission.
The cherry on top? It’s multi-functional: works for dry herbs, concentrates, hookah, AND culinary smoke infusion. Comes complete in a premium, reusable craft box with a handle, plus a 10-year extended warranty, signifying serious investment-grade quality.
Pro tip: Special editions (Khalifa, Cookies, Grateful Dead, Tyson 2.0) available at the same $599.95 price.
For: Cannabis connoisseurs who have “everything,” entertainers, design-focused individuals, and serious collectors
This 8-inch beaker delivers the essentials without the extras. The fixed fission downstem filters smoke through water for smoother pulls, while the classic beaker base keeps things stable on any surface. Hand-blown from durable borosilicate glass, it’s built to withstand daily use and is easy to clean. The wide base accommodates ice for extra cooling, and the fixed downstem means no small parts to lose or replace.
Pro tip: Add ice — the wide beaker base accommodates ice for extra cooling. Additionally, the compact 8-inch height makes it ideal for smaller spaces without compromising performance.
For: Straightforward smokers who want reliable function, anyone seeking a no-fuss daily piece, simple aesthetic lovers
Stash bags don’t need to scream, “I smoke weed.” Revelry Supply’s professional-looking backpacks feature triple-layer carbon filter systems for odor absorption, water-resistant exteriors, and lockable waterproof zippers — all with genuine leather accents that look sharp anywhere. The Explorer ($90-$110, 18L) is the most popular everyday model. The Drifter ($110-$125, 23L) offers an expandable design for longer adventures. All include laptop compartments and secret stash pockets, plus they’re refreshable — just toss them in the dryer briefly to release absorbed odors.
Pro tip: Made by surfers/skaters/artists from Santa Cruz, California. These bags earn 4-5 star reviews while remaining discreet for daily commutes.
For: Commuters, festival-goers, travelers, and anyone who wants peace of mind carrying their stash
Sometimes the best gifts are the clever ones. These doob tubes replicate classic Sharpie marker aesthetics for “hide in plain sight” storage. Each features a built-in tamping stick, is fully smell-proof, and fits up to king-size joints. Available in classic marker colors like lavender, green, black, yellow, and red.
Pro tip: Perfect stocking stuffers that provide genuine daily utility.
For: Anyone who enjoys clever design and needs portable pre-roll storage
For serious collectors seeking investment-grade functional art, Heady Hawaii curates one-of-a-kind handmade borosilicate pieces from American and Japanese glass artists. This isn’t head shop shopping — it’s art gallery browsing. The OTW QDR (Quick Draw Rig) collection ($1,196-$1,495) features UV-reactive glass, intricate millefiori, and fume technology. Creep Peak Tops ($200-$500) offer more accessible entry points for collectors.
Pro tip: These pieces appreciate — you’re buying functional art that serves as an investment.
For: Serious collectors seeking unique pieces, anyone who appreciates fine craftsmanship
When it comes to luxury glass, Mothership takes it to a whole other level. The Frosted Mini Exosphere 2 showcases the brand’s legendary ball rig design in a compact form — featuring a sandblasted frosted finish and high functionality. Mothership’s reputation for flawless welds, optimal airflow, and museum-quality craftsmanship makes every release highly coveted. The Mini Exosphere features their signature percolation system scaled down without compromise, delivering smooth, flavorful hits in a travel-friendly size.
Pro tip: Mothership pieces hold their value
For: Connoisseurs who demand the best, collectors building premium arsenals, and anyone ready to elevate their experience
We all have that one friend who drops everything. Whomp It Glass engineered the solution: beakers with 9 millimeter wall thickness (versus typical 5 millimeter) and 18 millimeter thick bases — that’s three to four times more durable than standard glass. The brand embraces the inevitable drop but makes glass that survives it.
The Medium 12-inch Beaker ($195-$200) hits the sweet spot with ice catcher and bombproof construction. The Large 18-inch Beaker ($240) adds extra capacity for group sessions. For ultimate durability, the DuraBundle 12-inch ($250-$300) features an aircraft-grade aluminum downstem and bowl that remain cool to the touch.
Pro tip: An investment piece that pays for itself by not needing replacement every few months. Free shipping on US orders over $100. The Original Spoon Pipe ($30-$50) makes a great stocking stuffer, offering the same durability and quality.
For: The klutzy stoner, college students, daily users, party hosts
Legal-state residents ready to try home cultivation face a learning curve. Hey abby removes that intimidation with plug-and-play automated grow boxes requiring zero assembly. The best-selling 420 SE Edition ($599, regularly $699) achieves 4 times higher success rates than growing alone (80% vs. 20%) with just 10-15 minutes of work per week.
This compact unit features an auto-adjusting full-spectrum LED, automated ventilation, a hydroponic system, environmental sensors, and app control. It yields up to 6oz per 3-4 month cycle — approximately $1,200 worth of premium flower from $90 in supplies (10x ROI) and comes pre-assembled with everything needed, plus a 3-month supply subscription. Community support includes 1-on-1 expert help and Discord community. Uses 70% less electricity than traditional setups (~$5/month).
Pro tip: Turns complete novices into successful growers in one cycle.
For: Legal-state residents interested in home cultivation but intimidated by traditional growing
South Florida fine artist Kristy Lingebach creates highly detailed acrylic paintings of mature female cannabis flowers set against bold backgrounds that reflect each strain’s unique personality. Museum-quality prints start at just $18 for an 8 x 10-inch piece, up to $160 for a framed 36 x 24-inch piece.
The STRainbow Collection ($98 for six 8-inch x 10-inch prints) features Gorilla Zkittlez, Wedding Glue, Super Lemon Haze, Girl Scout Cookie, Berry Diesel, and Purple Haze — perfect for creating a gallery wall. Individual strain portraits include Sour Diesel, Blue Dream, Wedding Cake, White Widow, and many more. Also available: T-shirts ($32), hoodies ($60), throw blankets, and pillows.
Pro tip: Sophisticated enough for any home — breaks down stigma by presenting cannabis as fine art. Commission custom paintings of favorite strains.
For: Cannabis enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone wanting conversation-starting wall art
Califari curates over 25 professional artists from around the world, pairing each strain with an artist whose style matches the strain’s unique personality. Styles range from psychedelic and vintage to modern and graphic, inspired by 1960s Fillmore concert posters and vintage fruit crate art. The 13-inch x 19-inch Lithograph Posters ($15-$20) fit standard frames for instant room decor. Over 50 strain designs available, including Sour Diesel, Blue Dream, OG Kush, and Pineapple Express.
Family-owned company (founder’s parents founded East Totem West, a 1960s psychedelic poster company now housed at the Museum of Modern Art, MoMA). The 2025 Art Benefit Calendar benefits the Last Prisoner Project.
Pro tip: The standard 13-inch x 19-inch size fits common frames, making room-decor-ready gifts available starting at just $15.
For: Collectors, anyone who appreciates professional art, fans of 1960s counterculture aesthetics
California’s trusted multi-state manufacturer brings innovation and festive flavors for 2025. The EMBAR Battery ($35, launching November 20) features Melt Mode technology engineered specifically for cold-weather performance — it quickly warms the entire pod to ensure smooth flow, big clouds, and full flavor even in freezing temps. Includes Rove Rewards Rip & Redeem program: scan LucidID QR codes with every puff to earn points for discounts, accessories, and apparel.
Limited-edition holiday strains include Choco Mints (hybrid, launching November 17), which blends rich chocolate and cool peppermint for a cozy, uplifting effect — available in all markets except Rhode Island through December. Sour Lime Haze (sativa, launched November 12) offers a zesty citrus and herbal spice profile, providing an energizing lift and smooth relaxation, and is available in the following states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, and Washington.
Pro tip: Pair the EMBAR Battery ($35) with a Diamond Series Cartridge ($49) for an $85 premium gift set. Standard Rove Holiday Edition Slim Battery ($22) in Black and Gold offers an accessible entry point for a ~$60-$65 starter gift set. All available through licensed dispensaries in 15 states.
For: Vape enthusiasts who value reliability, outdoor adventurers, and anyone building a Rove collection
Celebrate 17+ years of the leading cannabis tech platform with contemporary streetwear and collectible pieces. Limited Edition 420 1s Sneakers ($125) feature an exclusive CEEZE collaboration — limited to 420 numbered pairs in a custom retro USPS package design.
Hoodies ($64-$86) include Box Premium Full Zip, Geo Hooded Pullover, and Ticker Crew Fleece. Hats range from Snapbacks ($32-34) to the statement Leaf Cowboy Hat ($98). Robin Eisenberg Designer Collaboration T-shirts ($36) feature Dreamstate and Cowgirl designs with glow-in-the-dark socks ($14).
Accessories include Eye Heart Denim Jacket ($118), Geo Printed Socks ($12), Cowgirl Lighter ($35), Joint Pillow ($28), Inflatable Joint ($15+), Camo Fanny Pack ($28), and I Heart Catchall Tray ($80).
Pro tip: Several items are currently sold out — shop early for the best selection. The store offers 79+ total products at store.weedmaps.com.
This holiday season, skip the generic gift cards and give something that shows you actually know the cannabis lovers on your list. Whether it’s a $27 three-pack of clever doob tubes or a $600 gravity-powered conversation piece, the best gifts celebrate their passion while adding genuine value to their experience.
(@hemperco)
Courtesy of Puffco
Courtesy of Stündenglass
Courtesy of GRAV
Courtesy of Revelry Supply
Glass Gallery (@headyhawaii)
Courtesy of Mothership Glass
Courtesy of Rove
Weedmaps