Episode 456: From Skeptic to Advocate—Dr. Dana Lillestol’s Mission to Empower Seniors with Cannabis

Life Is Chill - A Senior-Focused Education Initiative

Timestamps:

00:00 – IntroductionIan introduces Dr. Dana Lillestol and her background in medicine, addiction treatment, and her pivot to cannabis advocacy.

03:15 – Dana’s Journey from Skepticism to Cannabis AdvocacyDana shares how a patient inquiry and personal research changed her perspective on cannabis—especially after discovering the plant’s suppressed medical history.

06:05 – Facing Stigma in the Medical FieldDana describes how her holistic approach and advocacy led to judgment from peers, and how she began supporting seniors seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals.

08:45 – Common Health Concerns Among SeniorsFrom chronic pain to poor sleep and social isolation, Dana explains what drives older adults to consider cannabis and how they respond to trying it.

12:30 – A Life-Changing Bus TourDana recounts a breakthrough moment with a senior who found instant relief using a CBD/CBG cream during a dispensary visit.

15:10 – Combating the Fear of Getting “High”Ian and Dana discuss the social conditioning around cannabis and how education is key to changing perceptions.

17:25 – Creating Cannabis Support GroupsDana explains her efforts to build community support systems where elders can share their cannabis journeys safely.

19:00 – How Cannabis Supports the Aging BodyDana discusses cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, CBC, and their roles in sleep, neuropathy, skin healing, and mood regulation.

23:30 – Organizing a Cannabis Education ConferenceDana details her upcoming “Modern Elder Cannabis Education Conference” in Phoenix, complete with workshops and expert panels.

26:45 – Navigating Stigma in Senior CommunitiesA story about a bus tour that highlighted just how deeply rooted the stigma remains—even in progressive spaces.

29:50 – Generational Attitudes Toward CannabisDana reflects on the contrast between younger generations and older adults in terms of openness and social conditioning.

32:00 – Media Narratives and MisinformationIan and Dana discuss the media’s role in spreading fear, despite decades of global cannabis research.

34:40 – Origins of Life is Chill and Product InnovationDana shares the mission behind Life is Chill and their development of bioavailable cannabis products using nanotechnology.

37:15 – What to Expect on a Dispensary TourDana describes preparing seniors for their first dispensary experience and how the tours build comfort and enthusiasm.

40:30 – Powerful Patient StoriesFrom cancer patients to Dana’s own 93-year-old mother, real-world stories highlight how cannabis has changed lives.

44:00 – The Importance of Continuing TreatmentDana warns about stopping cannabis use prematurely and shares a story of cancer recurrence after treatment was discontinued.

46:15 – Suppositories and RSO in Capsule FormDana discusses their development of Rick Simpson Oil in gel caps and the benefits of rectal administration.

49:00 – What Surprised Dana Most About Seniors and CannabisDana shares her thoughts on the inertia and silence caused by stigma—and the joy that follows when seniors find relief.

51:30 – Healthcare Professionals and CannabisDana touches on the silent interest among doctors who privately explore cannabis despite professional restrictions.

53:15 – Advice to Cannabis-Curious SeniorsGo slow, start low, and seek education from reputable sources—not smoke shops.

54:40 – Message to Healthcare Providers</