Mary Jane Gibson, one of the esteemed judges for the 2024 Cannabis & Tech Today Innovation Awards, is a distinguished voice in the cannabis industry. An actress, writer, and former editor at High Times, she has been at the forefront of the cannabis movement since 2007, tracking legalization efforts worldwide.
Gibson also co-hosted the acclaimed “Weed+Grub” podcast and has contributed to Rolling Stone, Playboy, and PBS. Named one of the 15 most powerful women in the weed industry by Complex Magazine, Gibson’s expertise and unique perspective make her an invaluable judge for this years Innovation Awards.
Cannabis & Tech Today spoke with Gibson about the importance of highlighting innovative achievements in the cannabis space and gained insights into where she believes the industry is heading in the next year and beyond.
Cannabis & Tech Today: Cannabis has innovated a ton and continues to do so. What do you consider innovative in today’s cannabis space?
MJG: I think the most innovative things I’m seeing are regenerative farming and small farmers bringing their craft cannabis to the level of major players. It’s heartening because small farmers have suffered due to regulations. The amazing small-scale grow techniques in California, like those at Soul Spirit Farms, are exciting. Regenerative and biodynamic growing is old school yet innovative, offering lessons for large-scale farms.
C&T: What kind of impact should tech have on cannabis today and into the future?
MJG: I love cannabis technology, especially how people like Roger Volodarsky at Puffco move the culture forward with tech. Companies like Puffco impact both technologically and culturally. However, some tech attempts to reinvent the wheel, overlooking that stoners just want to enjoy the plant without too many complications. Streamlined technology is exciting, making user experience intuitive and easy. I remember early dabbing tech was complicated, but now, with companies like Puffco, design and user experience have improved significantly. It’s also great to see tech integrating with phones for adjusting settings and tracking consumption, enhancing the user experience.
C&T: Judges’ opinions matter but so too does the public when it comes to winning an Inno Award. What does it take to become a hit with the public?
MJG: In today’s cannabis tech space, it’s all about user experience. While high-end technology is fun, the most successful products are streamlined and easy to use. Interactive tech, like running devices from your phone, is popular. Tracking consumption and optimizing user experience is becoming more important. Making technology intuitive and user-friendly is key, as is having a unified system for color coding across brands to avoid confusion.
C&T: What is your favorite piece of cannabis tech you own or have owned? Why does it stand out to you?
MJG: My favorite piece of cannabis tech is the Puffco Peak. It works every time and serves as a cool cultural conversation piece. Puffco has done a great job merging tech with culture. The Peak is beautiful, functional, and a conversation starter when friends visit. I also love my Phoenician grinder—it feels substantial, grinds perfectly, and is reliable. It’s a quality piece of tech in a market often flooded with lesser-quality items.
2024 Innovation Awards Submissions are Open!
Don’t miss your chance to be recognized for your innovative contributions to the cannabis industry. Submit your entries for the 2024 Cannabis & Tech Today Innovation Awards before the Aug. 26 deadline.
Editor Note: This article has been edited for length and clarity.
MaryJane Gibson Photo Credit: Lauren Hurt
