THC Tastings:
Elevate Your Privileges with
The Hacker's Cough
THC Tastings:
Elevate Your Privileges with
The Hacker's Cough
Connoisseur of Cannabis, Whiskey, and... Cybersecurity?
Meet The Hackers Cough
Connoisseur of Cannabis, Whiskey, and... Cybersecurity?
In a world where cannabis connoisseurs and whiskey aficionados often tread separate paths, THC Tastings bridges the gap with a unique blend of expertise that few can rival. With over 25 years steeped in the rich culture of cannabis, a deep love for tasting everything from whiskey to rum, tobacco to coffee, and a robust career in cybersecurity, I'm not just another enthusiast— I'm a trailblazer.
Cannabis & The Craft of Tasting
It all began back in middle school when I was drawn to the mysteries of cannabis and psychedelics. I recall being fascinated by what I read long before I even tried it. By the time I was 16, that curiosity had blossomed into a lifelong passion. From the early days of scouring for the best brick weed to exploring the nuances of premium nuggets and extracts, my approach to cannabis tasting has evolved into a refined art.
Becoming a Certified Ganjier and Ganjier Product Specialist was a natural progression. When I learned about those certifications, I knew I had to achieve them. They've rounded out my skill set and deepened my understanding of cannabis palating.
Fun Fact: One of my most memorable tasting experiences was tasting an Orange Turbo Temple Ball I drove from Western Colorado to the Ganjier campus. It was paired with a flower grown by an apprentice of the legendary Frenchy Cannoli in Derek Gilman's chillum. The event was a celebration of our community and the enduring legacy of the beloved Frenchy.
Behind the Bar to Whiskey Ambassador
But it wasn't just cannabis that captivated my senses. My love for palating grew behind the bar, serving drinks to well-to-do regulars with a taste for top-shelf whiskey. I wasn't much a drinker but wanted to create drinks that even a non-drinker could appreciate. This curiosity led me down the rabbit hole of whiskey tasting, eventually earning me the title of Certified Whiskey Ambassador. Working alongside Dennis, a close friend and whiskey innovator, I honed my skills, consulting on unique whiskey and rum flavors and running countless tastings.
The Cybersecurity Connection
In a surprising twist, I also carved out a successful career in cybersecurity, bringing a critical eye and analytical mind to the table. Cybersecurity forced me into the closet because of the federal prohibitions surrounding cannabis. But it also made me a professional; those soft skills have set me apart in the cannabis industry. Whether protecting the community from digital threats or advocating for safe, informed consumption, I always attempt to think a few steps ahead.
A Passion for Community
Beyond the world of tasting and cybersecurity, I have a hidden passion—a deep commitment to youth sports. I help run a local recreational league that offers soccer and flag football to hundreds of kids each year. I am a hardcore advocate for keeping kids off the streets and focused on positive, healthy activities.
Looking Ahead
With exciting new projects on the horizon, including a tobacco certification and the launch of Terp Talks tasting dinners, I continue to push boundaries. I am also preparing for a major Christmas event in December 2024, set to be a harvest ball like no other.
So, I hope to be more than just a master of the palate—I intend to be a guide through the ever-evolving landscape of cannabis, whiskey, and beyond. And with a journey this rich, there's no doubt we'll continue to blaze trails, one tasting, one insight, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
As Always:
Arrive humble. Be humble. Leave humble. Stay humble.