Inspirational Quotes for Work and Life: Five Favorites That Keep Me Going

Lightbulb on a dark background, symbolizing the spark behind 5 inspirational quotes for work and life.

Post title: Inspirational quotes for work and life  I never thought of myself as someone who relies heavily on quotes or mantras. The whole idea of motivational quotes plastered on walls felt a bit cheesy at times.  But the more I reflect on my journey, the more I realize my work and personal life are […]

Case Study: Cannabis and Mental Health Series w/ High Times

Case study on cannabis and mental health by Andrew Ward, published by High Times. Explores if weed helps with depression and marijuana aids anxiety.

Key Takeaways Overview Conceived and pitched by Andrew Ward in 2019, the “Cannabis and Mental Health” series for High Times was an extensive investigative project aimed at examining the complex intersection of cannabis consumption and mental health disorders. This initiative sought to bridge the knowledge gap for readers by exploring emerging research, patient testimonials, and […]

S-E-Oh So Important #3: How Long Does It Take to Rank?

Man checking watch, symbolizing what is SEO, how do I optimize keywords, and how can I improve my SEO ranking?

“How long does it take to rank on Google?”—It’s the question every client or colleague asks about three seconds into the first SEO conversation. And while I’d love to deliver the instant-gratification answer, the reality is more complicated. SEO is a long-haul commitment, and sometimes it’s slower than we’d all prefer. But if you play […]

Product Review: Custom Cones USA (DaySavers, Smoke Temple + Fill-A Blunt)

Product review graphic showcasing pre rolled cones from Custom Cones USA. Logos for DaySavers, Fill-a Blunt, and Smoke Temple appear alongside vibrant packaging.

Let me start by saying: I messed up.  Last October, I launched the AWARD rebrand and asked for brands to send products my way for a review. Custom Cones USA took me up on that offer—sent me a smorgasbord of pre rolled cones, tubes, filter tips, and more around November or December 2024.  Then…well, work […]

“New Music” I “Discovered” in 2025 So Far

Glitchy, colorful banner introducing new music discoveries through ai music searches, featuring a blurred, bearded figure.

Last year, I decided to harness the power of ChatGPT and other AI music searches to recommend new tunes—reigniting a passion for music discovery that I’d gradually lost over time.  While AI can certainly be dangerous and potentially destabilizing for many jobs, it also has the ability to be fun, useful, and educational when approached […]

Cannabis Search Engine Marketing: Is It Feasible?

A frustrated marketing manager at her desk, reflecting the complexities of cannabis search engine marketing.

The cannabis industry is showing signs of upward momentum, but marketing it online remains anything but straightforward. That’s why cannabis search engine marketing can be a real game-changer. That is, if marketers had access to all the options available in fully legal markets.  But, until federal regulations shift, most major traditional ad platforms steer clear […]

S-E-Oh So Important #2: Is SEO Dead?

A gravestone inscribed with “is SEO dead” set in a grassy cemetery

“Hey Google, is SEO dead?” That’s something you may be asking the almighty Alphabet and other leading search engines. And while many say that 2025 is the year SEO definitely dies, I’d argue that won’t be the case. Maybe the old ways will die, but the practice itself won’t.   It’s understandable to feel uncertain about […]

Every Open Adult Use Dispensary in New York [Jan 2025 Update]

Cannabis flower jars in front of a New York waterfall backdrop, featuring text ‘Every New York Dispensary [January 2025 Update]’ for users seeking a dispensary near me or recreational dispensaries.

New York’s cannabis legalization journey began in 2016 with the establishment of the Medical Cannabis Program, followed by the historic legalization of adult-use cannabis in 2021 through the Marihuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA). Today, the state continues to expand access to safe, regulated cannabis through its growing network of dispensaries. As of November 22, […]

Complete List of Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in New York State [Jan 2025 Update]

Glass jars filled with cannabis buds beside a teal background featuring the Statue of Liberty outline, referencing updated medical marijuana dispensaries in New York and the latest information on medical cannabis in New York.

Medical cannabis in New York has grown significantly since legalization occurred in 2016, with the market expanding with adult-use cannabis laws in 2021. With a robust medical program and a growing list of dispensaries, patients can now access high-quality cannabis products across the state. This article provides a detailed overview of the state’s cannabis history, […]

SEO for Cannabis Brands: Navigating Marketing Constraints

Close-up of a flowering cannabis plant alongside text that reads “How Does SEO Work?” emphasizing SEO for cannabis brands in a regulated market.

Cannabis brands often face more marketing constraints than other industries, thanks to strict advertising rules and shifting regulations. What works in most sectors in America won’t fly in cannabis, where federal regulations and varying state laws limit traditional digital and physical marketing efforts–including but not limited to restrictions on storefront banners, Google ads, social media […]