High Achiever Lauren McNaughton: “This Plant Truly Heals”
Since joining the cannabis industry 15 years ago, Lauren McNaughton has become a sort of Johnny Appleseed of cannabis. As Kiva’s Director of Brand Marketing, Lauren has helped members of her family find cannabis products to ease their pain and curb less-healthy habits. Every holiday season, she mixes homemade topicals for her friends and family.
Transitioning out of the retail industry and into a cannabis role not only changed Lauren’s life but the lives of those around here. Keep reading for our interview with this High Achiever.
How has cannabis improved your life?
Cannabis has completely changed my life both personally and professionally. From a personal perspective, cannabis has been my go-to medicine and recreational choice for wellness and great times. These days, I consider myself more of a medical user; I love leaning into minor cannabinoids to really help heal my aches and pains. I've been able to help multiple members of my family find cannabis products that have helped them curb less-healthy habits and vices.
Cannabis has also changed my life professionally. Having entered the industry 15 years ago from retail (which I hated), I will forever be grateful for this plant for bringing me literal healing, happiness, prosperity, and community. Being able to be a small part of so many people's stories of healing and happiness gives me the deepest appreciation and gratitude for the magic of this plant.
What cannabis myth do you wish you could dispel?
I have two hills that I will die on here. The first myth being that cannabis is a gateway drug. I have found the truth to be quite the contrary. Cannabis has been a powerful tool in assisting countless people get off "hard" drugs ranging from opiates to alcohol. This plant truly heals.
The second myth that I would love to dispel is that "we" are lazy. I have never in my life met more passionate, harder working folks than I have in this industry. We are tenacious, we are creative, we are kind, and we are compassionate.
What is your favorite cannabis delivery method (gummies, tinctures, etc) and why?
For everyday wellness, I am an edibles gal. I love to find that perfect ratio to help me get through a long day, soothe my aches, and keep my head on straight. On weekends, you can find me puffing on Super Silver Haze, ALL day long. This has been my all-time favorite strain that will always be my go-to. I also make homemade topicals out of our home-grown trim every holiday season for myself, family, and friends to keep those sore knees and backs at bay!
