In the 1980s, cannabis was ensnared in a web of stigma, thanks to campaigns like “Just Say No.” David Kooi, co-founder of Jointly, who didn’t embark on his cannabis journey until the age of 37, admits he, too, had internalized the societal stigma against this versatile plant. However, a spark of curiosity ignited when he discovered that cannabis had the potential to alleviate his anxiety.

David’s experience led him on a data-driven quest to unravel the mysteries of cannabis. With a background in statistics and data analysis, he brought a systematic approach to his experimentation with cannabis. He meticulously explored various factors, from dosage to product type and even hydration, to achieve his desired outcomes.

What he uncovered was a world of diverse reasons for cannabis consumption and a myriad of factors influencing the experience. It was this wealth of knowledge that laid the foundation for Jointly’s mission of “purposeful consumption.”

The Jointly app, launched in 2020, has since gathered a user base of nearly half a million people. Users report a remarkable 50% increase in their perception of how cannabis improves their lives through purposeful consumption.

Sparking Change with Jointly’s AI Language Model

While David’s personal journey is inspiring, the real innovation lies in “Spark,” Jointly’s AI language model. It’s an AI that incorporates the wisdom of the ages, a digital sage with the power to revolutionize cannabis experiences.

Spark’s foundation is the GPT language model, expanded to encompass Jointly’s extensive dataset. This digital companion understands purposeful cannabis consumption, taking into account product efficacy, hydration, and even diet.

Spark’s unique edge comes from its training on over 300 articles from “Jointly Magazine,” Jointly’s blog and newsletter. This comprehensive knowledge allows Spark to provide context-rich responses to users’ cannabis-related queries.

Though relatively new to the Jointly app, Spark is already engaging users. It’s on its way to being connected to dispensary inventories, which will allow consumers to receive personalized product recommendations based on evidence of effectiveness.

In a world where AI is rapidly changing the landscape, the potential of Spark stands out. Its impact could be a game-changer for cannabis consumers and retailers alike.

AI for Ending Stigma and Shaping Policy

To David, the Jointly app’s existence and its growing user base are irrefutable proof that stereotypes and stigmas around cannabis are unfounded. It challenges the notion that cannabis makes people less productive, lazier, or worse at their responsibilities. Users set goals that focus on positivity and personal betterment, like relaxation and better sleep. Their experiences often align with these goals, illustrating that cannabis can be a valuable addition to one’s well-being.

David envisions cannabis as a tool in the wellness toolkit, akin to diet, exercise, and meditation. The Jointly app’s data defies the stereotypes that have plagued cannabis for years, highlighting its potential to enhance lives when used with intention.

Reschedule vs. Deschedule – That is the question.

Regarding potential rescheduling by the Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), David, while not a policy expert, closely tracks developments. He finds the current pace of change perplexing, given the widespread societal agreement that cannabis should be legalized and accepted.

While he leans towards descheduling, he also recognizes the benefits of incremental steps. Rescheduling to Schedule III could bring financial advantages for legal cannabis retailers, who could then deduct their expenses like any other business. Such a change could be a substantial tax reduction subsidy for an industry grappling with taxation disparities.

David also emphasizes the importance of safe banking in the cannabis industry. Even non-plant-touching businesses like Jointly face challenges due to limited access to standard banking services. Policy changes related to banking and rescheduling could significantly benefit the cannabis industry, making it a more inclusive and thriving space for all involved.

As David Kooi and Jointly lead the charge in the cannabis industry, the power of AI, data, and personal experiences is transforming how we view, consume, and advocate for cannabis. With purposeful consumption, education, and innovative AI tools, a new era in cannabis is unfolding, one that’s more informed, stigma-free, and poised for positive policy change.