Cassandra Maffey – Featured Advocate

Name: Cassandra Maffey

Occupation: Master Grower for Verde Natural

When and how did you become an advocate for cannabis?

I began growing cannabis in Arcata in Humboldt County, California in 2000. I was fortunate to learn from old-time, experienced growers—and my younger friends and I experimented with a number of different growing modalities. Back then, it was highly dangerous to come forward as a cannabis cultivator and advocate. Some friends are still in jail from getting caught growing and selling weed, which is a tragedy.

I finally put all my cards on the table in 2009 when I moved here to the mountains of Colorado, got a state-certified Key Badge and became Boulder Medical Marijuana Dispensary’s (BMMD) Master Grower. BMMD was a small business—but one of the first licenses in the state.

Even at the time, most people were still scared to get occupational badges—even scared to get on “the list” and get their medical marijuana cards. But a number of us went all in and paved the way so that everyone can benefit from this amazing plant—as medicine for mind, body and spirit.

How has cannabis benefited your life?

Cannabis shows me my truest self: It teaches me to be mindful with how I respond to the world and shows me how I can be my best. It’s my meditation, my path to connect with my heart and with nature. Cannabis helps me to break through mental constructs and cultural illusions—to see others for who they truly are and to meet them with love and acceptance. This medicine reminds me that we are always surrounded by wild and complex beauty.

Oh, and I’d have chronic pain from scoliosis, if cannabis didn’t keep me so limber and relaxed!

What’s your greatest achievement for the cannabis cause?

Providing truly healthy, mindfully grown, legal cannabis to thousands of brave and amazing people through Verde Natural. And creating unique strains that I cherish—like Arch Angel and Master Yoda.

Who do you look up to or admire?

I especially admire the people who’ve stood up for their beliefs—all the activists who got loud, way before it was an acceptable thing to do. All the famous activists who sacrificed their freedom for the rights we have now—but also the folks who stood up in small ways, whose names we will never know.