A Budtender’s Guide to Cannabis with Tessa Dattillo
Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Tessa Dattilo to the Bioactive Podcast to break down what it really means to be a budtender and how cannabis education translates to real-world consumer experiences. With nearly a decade in the cannabis industry, Tessa shares insights from the frontlines—helping patients and customers navigate products, understand cannabinoids and terpenes, and make informed decisions in an increasingly complex market.
They explore the science behind how different cannabis products affect the body, including why edibles feel different from inhaled cannabis, how tolerance develops, and why product quality and sourcing matter. The conversation dives into red flags consumers should watch for when selecting products, from over-marketed “themed” items to inconsistencies in labeling and formulation. They also discuss the role of budtenders as educators, the gaps in industry training, and how consumers can advocate for themselves inside dispensaries.
Additionally, they examine differences in state regulations, product availability, and how legislation shapes what ends up on dispensary shelves. Tessa shares practical advice for aspiring budtenders, key foundational knowledge to focus on, and how real patient interactions—from chronic pain to end-of-life care—highlight the importance of accessible, accurate cannabis education. The episode also touches on tolerance, product sampling, craft vs large-scale cannabis brands, and the importance of curiosity when navigating cannabis use.
This is a conversation for anyone who wants to better understand cannabis from both a scientific and real-world perspective—whether you’re a consumer, patient, or working within the industry.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Too Strong Too Soon
01:22 Meet Tessa 420
02:06 From Cali to Illinois
04:01 Dispensary Education Gaps
06:02 Terpenes Rules and Misinformation
25:00 Budtender Life and Medical Use
30:24 Distillate Value Debate
31:55 Edibles Take Over
32:59 Drinks and Powder Buzz
35:51 Delta-8 Sickness and DIY Flower
38:12 Red Flags and Illinois Weirdness
47:14 Budtender Training and Farewell
Follow Tessa Dattilo on Tiktok
https://www.tiktok.com/@tessa420_
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