JRE #648 – Adam Scorgie

This podcast features Adam Scorgie, an independent filmmaker known for his documentaries on the cannabis industry, including “The Culture High” and “The Union: The Business Behind Getting High.” The conversation covers a wide range of topics, diving into the social, political, and cultural implications of marijuana, as well as broader themes of truth, information, and societal change.

Major Topics

1. The Cannabis Industry in British Columbia
   • The Union documentary explored the significant role of cannabis in BC’s economy, highlighting its impact on tourism, employment, and real estate.
   • Estimates suggest the black market marijuana industry in BC generated billions of dollars annually, with a majority of the product destined for the United States.
   • The name “The Union” originated from the realization that many people involved in the cannabis industry were part of an unspoken, yet thriving, network.
   • The documentary shed light on the complex legal and economic landscape surrounding cannabis in BC, particularly in the context of prohibition and its unintended consequences.
2. The Drug War’s Impact on Policing and Society
   • The Culture High explores how the War on Drugs has led to a shift in police-community relations, creating an atmosphere of distrust and fear.
   • The documentary highlights the controversial tactic of “asset forfeiture,” where law enforcement seizes assets suspected of being involved in criminal activities, often without sufficient evidence.
   • Scorgie cites examples of individuals who have been targeted and financially ruined by asset forfeiture laws, despite having no criminal convictions.
   • The podcast discusses the chilling incident where a mayor’s home was raided by DEA agents, resulting in the shooting of the family dog and the family being zip-tied.
3. The Role of the Internet in Information Dissemination and Social Change
   • Scorgie believes the Internet has played a pivotal role in advancing marijuana legalization, allowing for the rapid sharing of information, personal stories, and scientific research.
   • The accessibility of information online has empowered individuals to challenge established narratives and develop their own informed opinions, particularly regarding controversial topics like marijuana.
   • The podcast mentions the impact of social media platforms like Twitter in shaping public discourse and amplifying dissenting voices, even against powerful institutions.
   • Scorgie argues that the Internet’s power to expose corruption and disseminate information is fundamentally changing the way societies function.
4. The Shifting Public Perception of Marijuana
   • The podcast discusses the evolving public perception of marijuana, highlighting the increasing recognition of its potential medical benefits.
   • Scorgie cites numerous examples of individuals who have found relief from ailments like epilepsy and cancer through the use of CBD oil and other cannabis-derived products.
   • The legalization of marijuana in Colorado and Washington State is seen as a significant turning point, demonstrating the potential for positive societal and economic outcomes.
   • The podcast challenges the traditional “gateway drug” argument, pointing to the lack of evidence and the harmful consequences of prohibition.
5. The Political Landscape of Cannabis Policy
   • The podcast delves into the political machinations surrounding cannabis policy, highlighting the role of corporate interests and powerful lobbies in shaping legislation.
   • Scorgie criticizes the hypocrisy of politicians who oppose marijuana legalization while advocating for other, arguably more harmful, substances like alcohol.
   • The podcast explores the influence of media figures like Nancy Grace in perpetuating outdated and harmful stereotypes about marijuana.
   • Scorgie emphasizes the importance of challenging political narratives and recognizing the often self-serving motivations behind policy decisions.
6. The Complexities of Addiction and Mental Health
   • The podcast delves into the complex nature of addiction, challenging the simplistic view that marijuana is inherently addictive and harmful.
   • Scorgie emphasizes the role of trauma and childhood experiences in shaping addiction tendencies, citing the work of Gabor Mate, a prominent addiction researcher.
   • The podcast highlights the importance of holistic approaches to addiction treatment, recognizing the need for addressing underlying psychological and social factors.
   • Scorgie discusses the potential benefits of nutraceuticals like Alpha Brain in supporting cognitive function and addressing the effects of trauma and addiction.
7. The Future of Information and Society
   • Scorgie posits that the rapid advancement of technology, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and brain-computer interfaces, is poised to fundamentally change the way we interact with information.
   • The podcast explores the potential for technology to eliminate deception and manipulation, fostering greater transparency and accountability.
   • Scorgie envisions a future where access to information and the ability to discern truth becomes ubiquitous, potentially leading to a more equitable and just society.
   • The podcast acknowledges the potential for ethical and social challenges, but ultimately embraces the transformative power of information and technology in shaping our future.
8. The Legacy of the Drug War and Its Impact on Law Enforcement
   • The podcast critiques the War on Drugs, arguing that its harmful policies have disproportionately impacted marginalized communities.
   • Scorgie discusses the tragic consequences of prohibition, including the rise of violent crime, the erosion of trust between law enforcement and civilians, and the criminalization of non-violent offenses.
   • The podcast highlights the inherent conflict of interest in law enforcement’s involvement in drug enforcement, questioning their ability to act impartially when financial incentives exist.
   • Scorgie emphasizes the need for a shift in law enforcement practices, focusing on community engagement and a more nuanced approach to crime prevention.
9. The Role of Enforcers in the NHL and the Evolution of Hockey
   • Scorgie delves into the history and culture of “enforcers” in the NHL, the players tasked with physically protecting their teammates and deterring opponents.
   • The podcast discusses the evolving role of enforcers in the game, exploring the increasing emphasis on skill and strategy over brute force.
   • Scorgie highlights the selflessness and humility of enforcers, recognizing the risks and sacrifices they make for their teams.
   • The podcast delves into the mental and physical toll of fighting in hockey, exploring the lasting impact of injuries and the challenges of transitioning to life after retirement.
10. The Rise of MMA and the Changing Face of Combat Sports
    • The podcast examines the rapid growth of mixed martial arts (MMA), noting its popularity and the evolution of its rules and regulations.
    • Scorgie discusses the importance of technique, strategy, and conditioning in MMA, contrasting it with the emphasis on brute force in other combat sports.
    • The podcast explores the significance of athletes like Georges St-Pierre and Demetrious Johnson, who have achieved success through their technical prowess and dedication to the sport.
    • Scorgie highlights the ethical considerations surrounding weight cutting in MMA and its potential impact on athlete safety.
11. The Power of Storytelling and the Impact of Documentaries
    • Scorgie emphasizes the power of documentaries in shaping public perception and fostering social change.
    • The podcast discusses the importance of emotional connection and storytelling in documentaries, citing examples of his own films that have resonated with audiences.
    • Scorgie acknowledges the responsibility of filmmakers to present accurate information and avoid misleading narratives.
    • The podcast celebrates the potential of documentaries to inspire action, promote understanding, and challenge societal norms.
12. The Nature of Fame and the Impact of Celebrity Culture
    • The podcast explores the complex dynamics of celebrity culture, highlighting the potential for isolation and delusion among those who achieve fame.
    • Scorgie discusses the challenges of navigating the world of “yes men” and maintaining a sense of objectivity when surrounded by constant adulation.
    • The podcast cites examples of celebrities like Tom Cruise and Cher who have been profoundly impacted by their fame and the challenges of remaining grounded.
    • Scorgie emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, introspection, and seeking diverse perspectives, particularly for those in positions of power and influence.

Memorable Quotes

• “Something that’s happened almost strictly because of the drug war because of the way that the routing system goes, like, hey, we catch you for minor possession and you’ve already got parole, you give us the bigger guys and we’ll abolish your thing and you won’t go to jail.” – Scorgie describes the perverse incentives created by the War on Drugs, leading to the criminalization of minor offenses and the erosion of trust in law enforcement.
• “The fact that they think that they can do this. You know? Like, there’s no evidence whatsoever, suspicion of structuring is what they call. And by the way, that violates their own requirements. It it’s not like they have they have like requirements that you have to meet in order for them to take the money if they accuse you of structuring.” – Scorgie expresses outrage at the abuse of power and legal loopholes that allow law enforcement to seize assets without sufficient evidence.
• “They’re wars. They’re all politicians or wars, man. I mean, that’s really what they do. That’s their their their job is to be fake. and to get really good at being fake and figure out where the tide is turning.” – Scorgie paints a cynical view of politics, highlighting the manipulative tactics and self-serving agendas often employed by those in power.
• “The the the evidence now is just so overwhelming that when you have an anti grace or you have, you know, like the old Ronald Reagan Clip, it becomes almost comedy. It’s like — It’s so perfect. — but the thing is like and you had a doctor Carl Hart talked about when he was on your podcast. So is they don’t wanna come on, like, it sucks going on their show because that’s their realm where they can get you on points and they can get because sometimes you can get a certain doctor like Gabbermane, if you can let them talk and really explain it, he’ll sue you.” – Scorgie contrasts the scientific evidence with the often biased and inflammatory rhetoric used by media personalities and politicians.
• “I think that, you know, that’s that’s a big part of what’s wrong with people is we we get scared when we don’t have answers.” – Scorgie reflects on the human tendency to cling to simplistic narratives and fear uncertainty, even in the face of overwhelming evidence.