March 20, 2026

Cannabis and Traumatic Brain Injuries with guest Nikki Lawley

Show Notes

Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Nikki Lawley to the podcastto discuss the transformative role of medical cannabis in managing traumaticbrain injury (TBI), sharing her powerful personal journey alongside practicalinsights into cannabis as medicine. They cover topics such as the immediate andlong-term symptoms of TBI, the challenges of navigating traditional healthcaresystems, and the limitations of pharmaceutical treatments. Additionally, theyexplore how cannabis became a turning point in Nikki’s recovery, the barriersto access in the United States, and the stigma patients face when seekingalternative therapies. The discussion emphasizes patient-centered care, theimportance of advocacy, and the growing role of cannabis in treatingneurological conditions.

They also delve into various aspects of cannabis science andpersonalized medicine, including cannabinoid therapy, terpene profiles, and theuse of data tracking tools like Strainprint to optimize treatment outcomes.They discuss the significance of consistency in dosing, the effects of agedcannabis and CBN, and the role of terpene boiling points in consumptionmethods. The conversation further explores different delivery systems such asvaping and inhalation, how cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system,and the importance of experimentation in finding effective protocols. Finally,they touch on cannabis policy, patient advocacy, and the critical role ofstorytelling in advancing legalization and improving access for patientsworldwide.

This is a conversation for anyone navigating chronicillness, traumatic brain injury, or exploring cannabis as a potentialtherapeutic option. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, healthcareprofessional, or simply curious about the science of cannabinoids and theendocannabinoid system, this episode provides valuable insights into howcannabis can be used intentionally to support healing and improve quality oflife.

Chapters

00:00 TBI Changed Everything
01:34 Podcast Intro And Mission
02:37 The Headbutt Incident
05:10 Symptoms Hit Fast
06:48 Pharma Spiral And Workers Comp
10:49 Vegas Breakdown And Billboard Sign
16:44 First Cannabis Relief
19:40 Back Home Stigma And Barriers
23:18 Medical Cannabis Refuge In Canada
25:00 Strainprint Data And Terpene Tracking
29:32 Canada Trips And Building A Routine
31:33 Aged Flower and CBN
32:23 Terpene Boiling Points
33:24 L Orange Strain Deep Dive
35:33 Growing Pains and Pests
37:26 CB2 Targets and Nose Testing
39:13 Vapes Metabolism and ECS Tests
42:08 Myrcene Blue Lobster Effects
43:48 Cannabis vs Pills After TBI
49:07 Advocacy and Policy Reality
53:12 Consumption Methods and Work
56:50 Wrap Up and Where to Find

Connect with Nikki Lawley

Follow Nikki Lawley for insights on medical cannabis,traumatic brain injury (TBI), patient advocacy, and cannabinoid education:

Website: nikkiandtheplant.org
Instagram and Facebook: @nikkiandtheplant
LinkedIn: Nikki Lawley

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Cannabis and Traumatic Brain Injuries with guest Nikki Lawley

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