Ah, the classic “we’re all a family here” speech. It’s the speech your boss gives right before asking you to stay late unpaid or cover for Karen—who mysteriously gets “sick” every Monday. But let’s be real—your company is not your family. A real family doesn’t fire you when times get tough, replace you with someone cheaper, or lay you off via email. Corporations do. And they won’t lose sleep over it.

The Guilt Trap: Why They Want You to Feel Obligated

There’s a reason companies love to throw around the F-word (family, not the other one—though sometimes both). It’s a carefully crafted guilt tactic designed to make you feel personally responsible for your job, your team, and your boss’s quarterly bonus. If they can convince you that leaving would be some great betrayal, they can squeeze extra work out of you without giving you extra pay.

Think about it: have you ever seen a company hesitate to lay off entire departments? Do CEOs sit in their offices, clutching their pearls, sobbing over the lives they’re affecting? Not likely. If it’s in the company’s financial interest to cut you loose, they will. So why should you feel bad for doing the same?

Yet, so many employees hesitate when a better opportunity comes knocking. They think about the team they’d leave behind, the unfinished projects, or how “it just doesn’t feel right.” Meanwhile, upper management is already drafting a job listing for your replacement, probably with a lower salary and fewer benefits. Funny how that works.

The “Family” That Wouldn’t Drive You to the Airport

Ever tried calling your boss at 5 AM for a ride to the airport? No? Then you already know this “family” thing is a scam. But just for fun, imagine asking for actual family-level support at work:

• “Hey, since we’re a family, can I borrow some money to cover my rent this month?”
• “Since we’re like siblings, do you mind if I take an extra two weeks off, unpaid, just because I need a break?”
• “Since we’re all in this together, can I have an ownership stake in the company?”

Yeah, that’s what I thought.

The Reality: You’re a Player on a Team, Not a Member of The Family

If we’re going to use metaphors, let’s pick a more accurate one: a workplace is a sports team, not a family. You get drafted, you play your heart out, and the moment your performance drops or the team finds someone better, you’re traded or benched. No hard feelings—just business.

And let’s be honest, most companies wouldn’t even bother trading you. They’d cut you at 4 AM and have security escort you out before you even had time to pack up your motivational coffee mug. Meanwhile, your “family” of coworkers will be too busy updating their resumes to protest on your behalf.

The Fine Print of Workplace “Loyalty”

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should go full scorched-earth, flipping tables on your way out the door. Burning bridges isn’t the move. But neither is staying in a job that undervalues you just because you’re afraid to hurt someone’s feelings.

Your job is a transaction, not a blood pact. If your company could replace you tomorrow for half the cost, they wouldn’t hesitate. So why should you?

Bottom Line: Look Out for Yourself

Here’s what you should take away from all this:

• Your company is not your family. If it came down to you or their bottom line, the bottom line wins.
• Feeling guilty about leaving a job is like feeling guilty about switching phone providers. They’d cut you loose without hesitation—extend them the same courtesy.
• The best way to stay ahead? Keep your resume updated, keep an eye out for better opportunities, and never let loyalty blind you to a better deal.

So, the next time your boss tells you, “We’re all a family here,” smile, nod, and mentally add: “And I’m the cousin who’s about to hit the lottery and never come to Thanksgiving again.”

Why Companies Always Put Profits Over People

Ever notice how companies love to throw pizza parties instead of giving actual raises? That’s not generosity—it’s a distraction. They’ll call you a “valued team member” right up until the moment they lay you off, and they’ll expect you to give two weeks’ notice while they’d replace you in two hours if it saved them a few bucks.

The harsh reality? Companies will always put profits over people. No matter how much they claim to value you, their primary goal is not your well-being—it’s their bottom line. That’s just how business works. And if you don’t treat your own career with the same level of self-interest, you’re the only one who’s going to lose out.

Layoffs, Outsourcing, and the Disposable Employee

Think about all the times companies have suddenly laid off employees, closed entire divisions, or outsourced jobs overseas—often while still turning a profit. The excuse? “It’s just business.”

That’s their favorite catchphrase when it’s time to cut costs. Funny how that works, considering employees are expected to be “loyal” while companies can turn around and dump workers whenever it’s convenient.

Next time you feel guilty about leaving, remember this:

• Have you ever heard of a company giving employees a two weeks’ notice before firing them? No? Exactly.
• When companies merge, they often lay off hundreds of people in the name of “efficiency” while executives cash in massive bonuses.
• If your company could replace you with a cheaper worker tomorrow, would they? If the answer is yes (and it probably is), then you don’t owe them anything more than the work you’re paid for.

Remember: you are not indispensable to your employer. If the budget gets tight, if a department gets restructured, or if your role can be automated, they won’t hesitate to let you go. And when that happens, will they worry about how loyal you were? Nope. They’ll escort you out with a cardboard box and a “best of luck” email.

The “We Can’t Afford Raises” Lie

If you’ve ever been told, “There’s no room in the budget for raises,” only to see the CEO roll up in a brand-new luxury car the next week, congratulations—you’ve witnessed corporate gaslighting in action.

Here’s the truth: companies always have money. They just don’t want to spend it on you. Instead, they’ll:

• Give executives massive bonuses while telling the rest of the staff to “tighten their belts.”
• Spend millions on rebranding and unnecessary corporate perks while freezing employee wages.
• Preach about company loyalty but refuse to adjust salaries for inflation.

So, the next time they tell you there’s “no money” for raises, just remember: it’s not that they don’t have the money. It’s that you’re not where they want to spend it. And that’s all the more reason for you to look out for yourself.

Don’t Fall for the “Loyalty” Trap

Loyalty in the workplace is a one-way street. Employees who go above and beyond without asking for more compensation aren’t seen as dedicated—they’re seen as an opportunity to get extra work for free. The reward for working hard isn’t always a raise or a promotion; more often, it’s just… more work.

Meanwhile, the guy who job-hops every few years? He’s getting higher salaries and better benefits every time he jumps. Why? Because companies pay more for new talent than they do for existing employees.

If you stay in the same job for too long, you’re basically giving your employer a discount on your labor. And trust me, they won’t thank you for it.

The Only Person Who Should Be Loyal to Your Career Is You

At the end of the day, your employer is making decisions that benefit them. You should be doing the same. That means:

• Negotiating your salary aggressively.
• Looking for better opportunities regularly.
• Never feeling guilty for leaving a job that isn’t serving you.

You are a business of one. The sooner you start treating yourself that way, the better off you’ll be.

So, the next time a company tells you, “We’re all in this together,” take a look at the executive paychecks, the corporate bonuses, and the way they treat employees when times get tough. Then, act accordingly.

The Best Career Move? Always Be Open to New Opportunities

There’s an old-school mentality that says job-hopping makes you look unreliable. That staying at the same company for 10, 15, or even 20 years is the best way to build a stable career. You know who loves that mentality? Employers. You know why? Because it keeps you underpaid and overworked while they rake in profits.

But here’s the truth: if you want to maximize your earning potential and career growth, you need to always be looking for your next opportunity. The employees who switch jobs strategically—every few years, with a pay increase—are the ones who end up making the most money and advancing the fastest.

Why Job-Hopping Pays Off

Let’s break it down. The average annual raise for an internal employee is around 3%. Meanwhile, the average salary increase for switching jobs is 10-20% (or more!).

So, let’s say you’re making $50,000 a year. If you stay put, you’re looking at an extra $1,500 per year, if that. But if you switch jobs, you could be looking at an instant $10,000 raise. Do that a couple of times, and suddenly, you’re making way more than the “loyal” employees who stayed put.

Employers don’t reward loyalty. They reward negotiation and new talent. So instead of sticking around, hoping they’ll finally “see your value,” go find someone who does.

How to Know When It’s Time to Move On

Wondering if it’s time to start looking elsewhere? Ask yourself:

• Have I been passed over for raises or promotions despite consistently good performance?
• Is my salary keeping up with industry standards (or am I getting underpaid)?
• Do I feel stagnant in my role, like I’m not learning or growing anymore?
• Is my job negatively impacting my mental health or work-life balance?
• Have I noticed high turnover at my company (a sign of deeper issues)?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, it’s time to update that resume. And if you answered “yes” to most of them? You should’ve started looking yesterday.

How to Job Hunt Without Raising Red Flags

Job hunting while employed is like sneaking out as a teenager—exciting, risky, and something you don’t want to get caught doing.

Here’s how to be smart about it:

• Keep your job search private. Don’t tell your coworkers you’re looking. Office gossip spreads faster than a viral meme.
• Update your LinkedIn quietly. If you suddenly go from “no activity” to “liking and commenting on every recruiter’s post,” people will notice.
• Use personal email and devices. Never job hunt using company resources unless you want IT (and your boss) to know.
• Schedule interviews strategically. Try for early mornings, lunch breaks, or after work. If needed, take a sick day.
• Be honest but strategic in interviews. If asked why you’re looking, say something like, “I’m looking for new challenges and opportunities to grow,” rather than “My boss is a micromanaging nightmare.”

Leave on Your Own Terms

Once you land a better job, it’s time to make your exit the right way—without burning bridges (unless they really deserve it).

Some tips:

• Give notice, but don’t overdo it. Two weeks is standard. Anything beyond that is unnecessary unless you genuinely want to help with the transition.
• Be professional. No need to write a novel in your resignation letter. Keep it short and respectful.
• Don’t get guilt-tripped into staying. If they suddenly offer you more money, ask yourself why they didn’t pay you what you’re worth before you threatened to leave.
• Tie up loose ends. Don’t just coast through your final days—leave on a good note. You never know when a former coworker might be a future reference.

Your Career, Your Rules

At the end of the day, you don’t owe your employer anything beyond the work they’re paying you for. If you have a better opportunity, take it—without guilt, without hesitation, and without looking back.

Remember: they’d replace you tomorrow. So don’t feel bad about replacing them first.

The Right Way to Quit: Planning Your Exit Strategically

So, you’ve done the math. You’ve looked at your paycheck, compared it to the CEO’s yacht budget, and realized you could be making way more money elsewhere. Now it’s time to make your move.

Quitting a job is an art. Do it wrong, and you burn bridges. Do it right, and you keep your professional reputation intact while securing a better future for yourself. The goal? Get out clean, get out smart, and get out richer.

Step 1: Secure the Bag Before You Jump Ship

The best time to quit is when you already have another offer lined up. Unless your current job is actively destroying your mental health, don’t quit without a backup plan—because no matter how much you hate it, unemployment checks won’t match your paycheck.

Here’s what to do before you make it official:

• Lock in your next job. Get that offer letter signed before saying a word to your boss.
• Negotiate your new salary. If they want you, they’ll pay for you. Never accept the first offer.
• Check your benefits. Make sure there’s no gap in health insurance or 401(k) contributions.
• Download important contacts and work samples. Not proprietary company info—just anything that helps your portfolio or professional network.

Step 2: Give Notice, But Keep It Short and Sweet

The standard is two weeks. Anything longer is charity work.

Resignation letters should be short and boring—you don’t need to explain yourself. Example:

Dear [Manager’s Name],

Please accept this as my formal resignation from [Company Name], effective [Last Day, Two Weeks from Now].

Thank you for the opportunities I’ve had here, and I appreciate the experience I’ve gained. I will do my best to ensure a smooth transition.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

No need for a TED Talk. No need to tell them where you’re going. Just hand it over, smile, and let them process the fact that they should have paid you more while they had the chance.

Step 3: Expect Guilt Trips and Counteroffers

Once you resign, be ready for the guilt trips. Managers suddenly start acting like they care, coworkers ask if you’re sure about this, and HR might throw a counteroffer your way.

Stay strong. If they really valued you, they wouldn’t wait until you’re leaving to offer more money. Most people who accept counteroffers end up quitting within six months anyway—because nothing really changes.

Just say, “I appreciate the offer, but my decision is final.” Then keep it moving.

Step 4: Tie Up Loose Ends and Leave on a High Note

Even if you hate your job, don’t go crazy. Finish up any outstanding work, leave solid documentation, and help with the transition if needed. Leaving professionally keeps your reputation intact—and you never know when you might cross paths with someone again.

It’s Your Career, Leave on Your Terms

At the end of the day, your job is a business transaction, not a lifelong commitment. You owe it to yourself to seek out the best opportunities, the best pay, and the best work-life balance possible.

So take that better offer, hand in your resignation, and walk out with your head high. Because when it comes to your career, there’s only one person who should be calling the shots. And it sure as hell isn’t your boss.

The U.S. cannabis industry has spent years navigating a maze of shifting policies, legal loopholes, and political uncertainty. Now, with Donald Trump back in the White House for a second term, the future of federal cannabis reform is once again up in the air. Will rescheduling finally provide long-awaited relief for businesses, or will new roadblocks emerge? Let’s break down what’s at stake in 2025.

Rescheduling or Roadblock? The Federal Cannabis Debate in 2025

They say history repeats itself, but when it comes to cannabis reform, it feels more like a never-ending game of “Will They, Won’t They?”—like the Ross and Rachel of American drug policy. Except instead of romantic tension, we get a bureaucratic tug-of-war between lawmakers, regulators, and an industry desperate for clarity.

Now, with Donald Trump back in the Oval Office in 2025, cannabis businesses and advocates are once again wondering: Will this be the year federal cannabis laws finally evolve, or are we in for another round of political limbo? The good news: momentum for reform has never been stronger. The bad news: Trump’s cabinet picks and Republican control of Congress could make rescheduling—and broader legalization—far from a done deal.

The Big Question: Will Cannabis Be Rescheduled in 2025?

The most anticipated cannabis policy shift this year is the potential rescheduling of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Under President Biden, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommended in 2023 that marijuana be moved from Schedule I (where it’s currently classified alongside heroin and LSD) to Schedule III, a category that includes drugs with accepted medical uses, like Tylenol with codeine.

In April 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced it would initiate a formal rulemaking process to reclassify cannabis—a move that sent shockwaves through the industry. If finalized, this change would provide massive benefits for cannabis businesses by exempting them from IRS tax code Section 280E, which currently prevents them from deducting business expenses. In other words, they’d finally be taxed like normal businesses instead of drug cartels.

However, the DEA’s rulemaking process is ongoing, and with Trump now in charge, the cannabis industry is holding its breath. The agency’s final decision is expected later in 2025, but the appointments Trump makes—especially his pick for DEA Administrator—will heavily influence the outcome.

Trump’s Stance on Rescheduling: Is He Pro-Weed or Just Pro-Business?

Despite his reputation as a wildcard, Trump has actually shown some support for cannabis reform—at least in ways that benefit businesses. During his 2024 campaign, he stated on Truth Social that he supported the rescheduling of marijuana, and he even expressed openness to recreational cannabis in Florida.

However, there’s a major difference between campaign rhetoric and policy action. While Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill into law—effectively legalizing hemp-derived products like CBD—his first administration was not exactly friendly to cannabis. His Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, rescinded the Cole Memorandum in 2018, which had previously protected state-legal cannabis businesses from federal interference. Trump later walked back some of this hostility, but his record on cannabis remains mixed.

Now, with a second term underway, the cannabis industry is watching closely to see whether Trump will follow through on his rescheduling support or allow his more conservative cabinet members to stall the process.

The Role of Trump’s Cabinet: Who’s Driving Cannabis Policy?

Even if Trump remains neutral or mildly supportive of cannabis reform, his administration’s key appointments could determine whether progress moves forward—or hits a wall.

• Attorney General Pam Bondi: Trump’s pick for Attorney General, Pam Bondi, has historically opposed cannabis legalization. As Florida’s Attorney General, she fought against medical marijuana expansions. If she maintains that stance at the federal level, she could influence how the Justice Department enforces cannabis laws.
• DEA Administrator: The DEA has the final say on rescheduling, and Trump’s choice for the agency’s leadership will be a make-or-break factor. If he appoints a hardliner, the rescheduling process could be delayed indefinitely.
• FDA Commissioner Marty Makary: Makary has referred to cannabis as a gateway drug and expressed concerns about its long-term effects. Since the FDA plays a role in regulating cannabis-based medical treatments, his views could slow down progress on medical marijuana research and approvals.

With these key figures in place, cannabis reform advocates are concerned that the Trump administration might not actively block rescheduling—but they could certainly drag out the process.

Congress and Cannabis: What’s on the Legislative Agenda?

With Republicans controlling Congress, broad federal legalization is unlikely in the near term, but some incremental reforms could still gain traction. A few key bills to watch include:

• The SAFER Banking Act: This legislation, an updated version of the SAFE Banking Act, would allow cannabis businesses access to traditional banking services without fear of federal penalties.
• The States Reform Act: This Republican-led bill would fully deschedule cannabis and leave regulation up to individual states.
• The STATES 2.0 Act: Another states’ rights-focused bill, this would amend the CSA to ensure that legal cannabis businesses operating in compliance with state laws aren’t subject to federal prosecution.

While Trump’s stance on these bills remains unclear, his previous support for state-level decision-making suggests that at least some of these measures could see progress.

The Verdict: Rescheduling Is Likely, but Full Legalization Is Not

With all signs pointing toward cannabis moving to Schedule III in 2025, the industry is cautiously optimistic. However, full federal legalization remains a long shot under the current administration. Instead, expect continued legal ambiguity, state-by-state expansion, and potential new hurdles as conservative policymakers take the reins.

At the end of the day, the cannabis industry is no stranger to political uncertainty. For now, businesses, advocates, and consumers will have to wait and see whether Trump’s second term brings long-overdue reform—or another round of stalled progress.

The State-Led Legalization Push – Progress or Stagnation?

For years, state-level cannabis legalization has been the driving force behind the industry’s growth, even as federal lawmakers dragged their feet on reform. But after a decade of momentum, the results of the 2024 election have raised new questions: Has the green wave stalled, or is legalization simply entering a new, more complex phase? While some states are still pushing forward, others are facing unexpected roadblocks, signaling that the path to full national legalization remains anything but straightforward.

Mixed Signals: What the 2024 Election Results Mean for Cannabis

Heading into 2024, cannabis advocates were hoping for another round of victories at the state level. Instead, they were met with a reality check. Legalization efforts struggled at the ballot box, with measures failing in key states such as Florida, North Dakota, and South Dakota. In Arkansas, a court battle prevented votes on legalization from even being counted. The only successful ballot initiatives came from Nebraska, but even those are now tied up in legal challenges.

So, what went wrong? A few key factors:

• Republican-Led Resistance: As more red states were targeted for legalization efforts, conservative opposition ramped up. Many Republican lawmakers who once tolerated medical marijuana are now pushing back against recreational use.
• Weak Turnout and Shifting Voter Priorities: While cannabis remains popular, economic concerns and other political issues took center stage in 2024, potentially lowering enthusiasm for reform measures.
• Legal Challenges: Even when legalization measures gain support, lawsuits and legislative obstacles continue to delay implementation, as seen in states like Arkansas and Nebraska.

Despite these setbacks, cannabis reform is far from dead. The fight has simply moved from the ballot box to state legislatures, where lawmakers in key battleground states like Pennsylvania and Hawaii are now at the center of the legalization debate.

The Pennsylvania Question: A New Model for Legalization?

Pennsylvania is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched states for cannabis reform in 2025. Sandwiched between fully legal neighbors like New York, New Jersey, and Ohio, Pennsylvania is feeling the pressure to legalize recreational cannabis—not just to appease public demand, but to capture the tax revenue that’s currently flowing into other states.

Governor Josh Shapiro has been vocal about his support for legalization, and he even included projected cannabis tax revenues in his latest budget proposal. But passing a legalization bill through Pennsylvania’s divided legislature remains a major challenge.

The biggest sticking point? How the state should regulate cannabis sales. Pennsylvania lawmakers have floated a controversial idea: selling recreational cannabis through state-run dispensaries, similar to how liquor sales are handled. This proposal is intended to address concerns about public safety and regulatory oversight, but it also raises several questions:

• Would the federal government tolerate a state directly selling a federally illegal substance? While private businesses operating in a legal gray area have been largely ignored by federal authorities, a state-run cannabis market would be a bold new step.
• Would Republicans go along with expanding government control over a new industry? Many conservatives in Pennsylvania have long pushed for privatizing liquor sales—would they really support state-run cannabis stores?
• Would this model create a government-controlled cannabis monopoly? Advocates for small businesses worry that this approach could limit opportunities for independent dispensaries and entrepreneurs.

For now, Pennsylvania lawmakers are debating whether to move forward with this unique approach or to follow more traditional legalization models seen in other states. If they succeed, Pennsylvania could set a new precedent for state-run cannabis markets—one that other states might follow.

Hawaii: A Long-Awaited Legalization Push

Another key battleground for cannabis legalization in 2025 is Hawaii. Despite its progressive reputation, Hawaii has lagged behind other blue states when it comes to recreational cannabis. While medical marijuana has been legal since 2000, previous efforts to expand legalization have stalled due to opposition from law enforcement and moderate Democrats.

However, momentum is shifting. A new wave of pro-cannabis legislators and strong public support are giving legalization a renewed push. In early 2025, a bill to legalize recreational cannabis was introduced in the state legislature with backing from key lawmakers. If passed, Hawaii could become the next state to embrace full legalization.

But legalization in Hawaii presents unique challenges:

• Federal Land Issues: Much of Hawaii’s land is federally owned, which could complicate cannabis regulations.
• Tourism and Public Consumption: With millions of tourists visiting Hawaii each year, lawmakers must decide how to regulate public consumption and prevent illegal sales to visitors.
• Small Business vs. Big Cannabis: As seen in other states, there is an ongoing debate over whether to prioritize local growers and dispensaries or allow large multi-state cannabis corporations to dominate the market.

If Hawaii succeeds in legalizing recreational cannabis in 2025, it would mark a major step forward for legalization efforts in traditionally more hesitant states.

How Republican-Controlled Legislatures Are Shaping Cannabis Policy

One of the biggest hurdles for state-level legalization moving forward is the increasing power of Republican-controlled legislatures. While cannabis has gained bipartisan support in recent years, many conservative lawmakers remain opposed to full legalization. This is especially true in states where Republicans hold legislative majorities, making it difficult for new legalization bills to gain traction.

Some key trends to watch:

• A Focus on Medical-Only Expansion: Some red states are willing to expand medical cannabis programs but remain resistant to recreational legalization.
• Attempts to Roll Back Existing Laws: In some states, conservative lawmakers are pushing for tighter restrictions on cannabis sales, advertising, and THC potency limits.
• Efforts to Block Federal Interference: In states where cannabis is already legal, Republican lawmakers are increasingly advocating for federal non-interference, emphasizing states’ rights over federal policy.

While state-level legalization has been the driving force behind the cannabis industry’s expansion, 2024 showed that progress is no longer guaranteed. Moving forward, advocates will need to navigate an increasingly complex political landscape, finding ways to work with—or around—Republican opposition in key states.

The Road Ahead: State-Led Legalization in an Uncertain Era

Despite setbacks in 2024, state-led cannabis legalization is still progressing—just at a slower and more unpredictable pace. With battleground states like Pennsylvania and Hawaii leading the charge, the next phase of legalization will likely depend on the ability of lawmakers to craft policies that appeal to both progressive advocates and conservative skeptics.

At the same time, the role of state legislatures is becoming more important than ever. As long as federal legalization remains elusive, individual states will continue to shape the industry’s future. The question now is whether legalization efforts can regain their momentum in the face of political uncertainty—or if the movement has reached its peak.

Big Cannabis, Social Equity, and the Industry’s Next Moves

If there’s one thing the cannabis industry has learned, it’s that legalization isn’t just about allowing people to light up legally—it’s about who profits, who gets left behind, and how the industry evolves under new regulations. While federal and state governments wrestle over cannabis policy, the real battle is unfolding between small businesses, massive multi-state operators (MSOs), and advocates fighting for social equity. As legalization spreads, will the industry become a free-market paradise or just another version of Big Tobacco, but with better branding?

The Rise of “Big Cannabis”: A Budding Monopoly?

Once upon a time, the legal cannabis industry was filled with scrappy entrepreneurs, homegrown dispensaries, and independent growers chasing the green dream. Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape is changing fast. A handful of MSOs—companies that operate across multiple states—are gobbling up licenses, dominating dispensary sales, and pushing out smaller businesses.

For those keeping score at home, this is how it usually plays out:

• Step 1: States legalize cannabis, promising economic opportunity for all.
• Step 2: Licensing fees, strict regulations, and high startup costs make it impossible for small businesses to compete.
• Step 3: Large, well-funded cannabis corporations swoop in and take over.
• Step 4: Local dispensary owners find themselves out of business, while the CEO of Big Buds, Inc. buys another yacht.

It’s a familiar story—one we’ve seen play out with alcohol, tobacco, and pharmaceuticals. Now, as cannabis becomes more mainstream, the same concerns are growing. Will a handful of corporations end up controlling the market, turning cannabis into the next highly regulated, billion-dollar industry with little room for independent operators?

Social Equity: The Promises vs. Reality

While many legalization efforts have included social equity provisions—meant to give opportunities to those impacted by the War on Drugs—progress has been slow. Minority entrepreneurs and small business owners often struggle to access capital, navigate licensing barriers, and compete with well-funded corporations.

Some states have attempted to level the playing field with social equity programs, which prioritize cannabis licenses for individuals from communities hit hardest by past drug laws. But so far, the results have been mixed:

• In Illinois, social equity licenses were awarded, but many recipients struggled to open their businesses due to lack of funding.
• In New York, lawsuits over licensing rules delayed dispensary openings for months.
• In California, excessive regulations and local bans on dispensaries have made it nearly impossible for social equity businesses to succeed.

In short, states love to talk about social equity, but when it comes to actually implementing fair policies, the execution often leaves much to be desired. And with federal legalization still a distant dream, there’s no national framework in place to ensure real equity across the board.

The Rescheduling Effect: Boom or Bust for the Industry?

One of the biggest developments of 2025—the possible rescheduling of cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III—could completely reshape the industry. But whether it’s a blessing or a bureaucratic nightmare depends on who you ask.

On one hand, rescheduling would allow cannabis businesses to finally deduct normal expenses on their taxes, saving them millions. It could also open the door for increased medical research, leading to new cannabis-based pharmaceuticals.

On the other hand, some fear that rescheduling could shift control of the cannabis industry to pharmaceutical companies. If marijuana is treated as a regulated prescription drug rather than a commercial product, will Big Pharma take over dispensaries? Will patients need a doctor’s note just to buy a joint?

Imagine walking into a CVS and seeing cannabis sold next to allergy meds: “For best results, ask your doctor if Granddaddy Purple is right for you.”

Jokes aside, rescheduling is likely to be a mixed bag—great for business operations, but potentially complicating the current dispensary model. For now, cannabis businesses are cautiously optimistic but keeping a close eye on how regulations evolve.

The Future of Federal Legalization: Are We There Yet?

With each passing year, full federal legalization feels both inevitable and impossibly far away—kind of like waiting for your Uber driver who’s been “5 minutes away” for the last half hour.

Despite growing public support, a divided Congress and conservative resistance make broad legalization unlikely in the near term. Instead, expect more piecemeal reforms, such as:

• The continued push for the SAFER Banking Act, which would allow cannabis businesses access to banking services.
• State-led legalization efforts, with states like Pennsylvania and Hawaii leading the charge.
• Potential challenges to federal cannabis prohibition in the courts.

For now, the industry will continue operating in legal limbo—technically illegal under federal law, but thriving in state-regulated markets. The big question is whether the next four years under Trump will bring more clarity or just more confusion.

A Crossroads for Cannabis

The cannabis industry is at a major crossroads. With rescheduling on the horizon, state-led legalization efforts continuing, and Big Cannabis flexing its financial muscles, the next few years will shape the future of the industry.

For entrepreneurs, the message is clear: Adapt or get left behind. For advocates, the fight for social equity and fair regulations is more important than ever. And for consumers? Well, just sit back, roll one up (where legal, of course), and watch the drama unfold.

One thing’s for sure—whether it’s in Congress, state legislatures, or dispensary boardrooms, the battle over cannabis is far from over. Stay tuned, because the next chapter of legalization promises to be just as unpredictable as the last.

Once upon a time, Twitter was the beating heart of the internet—a place where breaking news spread in real time, public debates played out in front of millions, and ordinary users could engage with celebrities, journalists, and world leaders. In 2025, however, the platform has devolved into something unrecognizable: a pay-for-play wasteland filled with bots, grifters, and frustrated users struggling against an algorithm that seems determined to bury them. At this point, the only thing easier than getting a blue checkmark is getting scammed by someone who has one.

Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter was supposed to be a revolution. He promised to solve the bots problem, restore free speech, and make the platform better than ever. Instead, nearly two years later, Twitter (or “𝕏,” as Musk insists on calling it, like some teenager who just discovered edgy fonts) is a flaming wreck, hemorrhaging users while advertisers flee like they just saw Musk’s browser history. Google Trends data confirms what many have suspected—Twitter’s relevance has been in freefall ever since Musk took over.

So what happened? How did one of the world’s most influential social media platforms collapse so quickly? Is there a future for Twitter, or has Musk tainted it for good?

The Twitter Hype Train Derailed: Google Trends Exposes Musk’s Mess

When Elon Musk announced his unsolicited bid to buy Twitter on April 14, 2022, the internet lit up. Searches for “Twitter” on Google Trends skyrocketed, peaking when the deal was officially accepted on April 25th. At the time, it seemed like Twitter was about to enter a bold new era—one led by the so-called visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX. Instead, what followed was a drawn-out, embarrassing decline that has left Twitter a shadow of its former self.

In the weeks following Musk’s takeover, Twitter dominated headlines for all the wrong reasons. Major advertisers fled the platform, citing concerns about brand safety and Musk’s erratic leadership. Employees were either laid off en masse or quit in protest of his chaotic management style. High-profile users, once the backbone of Twitter’s engagement, abandoned the site in droves, taking their audiences with them. And as all of this unfolded, Google Trends data painted a clear picture: the world was rapidly losing interest in Twitter.

Since that fateful April 2022 peak, searches for “Twitter” have been in freefall. Month after month, interest in the platform has steadily declined, a trend that continues to this day. While social networks typically see fluctuations in search volume due to major events or viral moments, Twitter’s downward trajectory has been alarmingly consistent. The initial excitement surrounding Musk’s acquisition quickly gave way to skepticism, then disillusionment, and finally, outright apathy.

One of the most striking aspects of this decline is how it compares to other social media platforms. While platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and even Threads have seen periodic spikes in interest, “Twitter” as a search term has been on a near-continuous downward slope. The message from users is clear: Twitter, as it once existed, is no longer relevant. It has been replaced not by a new and improved version under Musk’s leadership, but by a wasteland of pay-for-play grifters, automated spam bots, and disillusioned users clinging to the remnants of what was once a global town square.

It’s not hard to see why. Musk’s version of Twitter—rebranded as 𝕏—has become a chaotic experiment in corporate mismanagement. Once a thriving hub for real-time news and cultural conversation, the platform now prioritizes paid accounts over organic engagement. The infamous blue checkmarks, once a symbol of verified credibility, are now little more than a badge signifying that a user is willing to pay for their visibility. Musk’s insistence on pushing a subscription-based model has further alienated casual users, many of whom have simply decided to leave rather than participate in an ecosystem where financial might makes right.

Twitter’s decline on Google Trends is also a direct reflection of its increasing irrelevance in the media landscape. Journalists, who once relied on Twitter as a primary tool for breaking news and real-time reporting, are no longer finding it useful. Many have migrated to platforms like Bluesky, Mastodon, and Threads, where engagement is more organic and free from Musk’s algorithmic interference. Even celebrities and influencers—historically some of Twitter’s most influential power users—have either reduced their presence or abandoned the platform altogether.

Perhaps the most telling indicator of Twitter’s downfall is the lack of any meaningful rebound. Typically, social media platforms that experience a dip in interest will eventually see a resurgence, driven by new features, viral trends, or shifts in user behavior. Twitter, however, has experienced none of these. Instead, its decline has been both immense and uninterrupted, signaling that the damage Musk has inflicted may be irreversible.

It’s clear that Twitter’s best days are behind it. Even MySpace Tom is watching this train wreck and feeling good about his life choices.

What was once a thriving platform for real-time discussion has become a stagnant, algorithm-driven echo chamber where bots and paid influencers dominate the conversation. Musk may have envisioned himself as the savior of Twitter, but Google Trends tells a different story—one of a platform that peaked the moment he took over and has been sinking ever since.

For those still holding out hope that Twitter can reclaim its former glory, the data suggests otherwise. The digital world has already moved on. The question now isn’t whether Twitter can recover, but how much longer it will remain relevant before being completely eclipsed by its rising competitors. Platforms like Bluesky and Threads are already proving that the future of social media doesn’t belong to Twitter—it belongs to the platforms that understand what users actually want.

What’s In A Name?

Rebranding is a risky move for any company, but when done right, it can breathe new life into a struggling brand. When done wrong—well, you get whatever the hell Elon Musk did to Twitter. In July 2023, Musk made the baffling decision to erase one of the most recognizable brand names in tech history and replace it with “𝕏”, a single-letter (symbol, actually) moniker that looks like a placeholder in an unfinished sci-fi screenplay.

Twitter wasn’t just a social media platform; it was a cultural institution. The name was iconic, as instantly recognizable as Coca-Cola, Google, or ChatGPT. The word “tweet” had entered the global lexicon as a verb, a level of brand dominance most companies could only dream of. And yet, in one fell swoop, Musk threw it all away—presumably in an effort to make Twitter feel more like one of his other companies, or maybe just to show the world he was in charge. The result? A branding catastrophe that left even his most loyal fans confused.

Imagine if you woke up tomorrow and ChatGPT had rebranded itself to “L33tSp34k 9000” in an effort to be edgier and fight the so-called “woke mind virus.” You’d assume the company had been taken over by a group of 4chan trolls, not industry professionals. That’s exactly what happened with Twitter. Overnight, it went from a household name to something that sounds like a failed energy drink or an adult film website.

Brand recognition isn’t just about a name—it’s about trust, familiarity, and ease of use. Twitter had all of that. The little blue bird was more than just a logo; it was a symbol of global conversation. Replacing it with a vague, dystopian “𝕏” was like waking up one day to find that Nike had replaced its swoosh with a QR code or that McDonald’s had changed its name to “Meat Circles.” Sure, it’s still the same company, but why make it harder for people to care?

The effects were immediate. While Musk hoped the rebrand would usher in a new era, what it actually did was accelerate the platform’s decline. Many users still refer to it as Twitter out of sheer habit, while others use “𝕏” mockingly, as if referring to a bootleg version of the real thing.

If there was ever any doubt that Musk was actively trying to run Twitter into the ground, the 𝕏 rebrand should settle it. Instead of fixing the platform’s actual problems—he actually spent time and energy dismantling one of the most valuable brand identities in tech history. The only question now is how much longer he’ll keep insisting that “𝕏” was a stroke of genius before reality sets in.

Bots, Grifters, and The Wasteland Blues: The Twitter Experience in 2025

One of the most glaring issues plaguing Twitter today is its rampant bot problem. Despite Musk’s repeated claims that he would “defeat the bots,” they are more prevalent than ever. Sign up for a new account, and within minutes, your DMs will be flooded with spam offers from accounts promising paid promotions, engagement boosts, and fake followers. Meanwhile, real users—especially those who haven’t paid for a blue check—are practically invisible, their posts buried beneath a sea of automated garbage.

Making matters worse, Twitter’s handle system is fundamentally broken. Try registering a username that isn’t some variation of “PonyBoy932064629436,” and you’ll quickly realize that virtually every conceivable handle has already been taken. Many of these accounts are long abandoned, their owners having made a single tweet back in 2009 before disappearing forever. Unlike Bluesky, which allows users to secure custom handles using domain names, Twitter’s outdated system forces new users to settle for whatever scraps are left—unless, of course, they’re willing to buy an inactive handle on the black market.

Even for those who manage to establish a presence, Twitter’s algorithm is an insurmountable barrier. The company’s once-vaunted “For You” feed has become an echo chamber where paying users are given priority over organic content. If you’re not a subscriber to Musk’s Twitter Blue service, your posts are almost guaranteed to be suppressed in favor of those from influencers, brands, and political extremists willing to pay for engagement. The result? A platform where genuine conversations are drowned out by monetized noise.

But it’s not just engagement that has become a commodity—it’s also customer support. Twitter’s “Premium Support” is a joke, often taking days to provide automated, canned responses to even the most pressing issues. If your account gets hacked, locked, or falsely suspended, be prepared to wait weeks—if not months—for a resolution. The rare cases that do reach human moderation are met with generic copy-paste replies that do little to address the actual problem.

This negligence has led to a disturbing reality: Twitter no longer prioritizes its real users. Instead, the platform has become a playground for grifters—people who exploit Musk’s paid verification system to push scams, misinformation, and low-effort engagement farming. Entire networks of so-called “influencers” now exist solely to reshare each other’s content in an endless loop of artificially inflated interactions. The more you pay, the more the algorithm favors you. And if you don’t pay? Good luck getting noticed at all.

The irony in all of this is that Musk originally framed his takeover as a move toward greater transparency and fairness. He claimed that Twitter had become corrupt, that it was biased against free speech, and that his leadership would restore balance. Instead, he replaced one form of perceived bias with another—one that favors those willing to spend the most money. Free speech, it turns out, isn’t free on Twitter. It comes with a monthly subscription fee.

The situation has gotten so bad that even longtime power users have started looking elsewhere. Many have migrated to Bluesky, where engagement feels more organic and users have actual control over their feeds. Others have moved to Mastodon, Threads, or simply abandoned microblogging altogether. What’s left behind on Twitter is a strange mix of hardcore Musk loyalists, aggressive spammers, and everyday users who either don’t realize they have better options or are too invested in their existing Twitter presence to start over elsewhere.

For those still clinging to the platform, the experience is a frustrating one. The features that once made Twitter great—real-time conversation, discoverability, and a sense of community—have been eroded beyond recognition. The algorithm favors outrage and controversy, making it harder than ever to have meaningful discussions. Verified users with paid accounts can openly spread misinformation without consequence, while ordinary users struggle to gain visibility. And all the while, Musk continues to double down on policies that benefit his bottom line at the expense of the user experience.

It’s clear that Twitter is no longer a public forum in any meaningful sense. It’s a pay-to-win system where engagement, visibility, and even basic account security are locked behind a paywall. Musk’s vision for the platform has resulted in a dystopian social media landscape where bots and scammers thrive while legitimate users are pushed to the margins.

The writing is on the wall. Twitter, once an indispensable part of the internet’s cultural and political discourse, is rapidly becoming irrelevant. The question now isn’t whether the platform can be saved—it’s how much longer it will limp along before users finally abandon ship for good.

Enter Bluesky: What Twitter Could Have Been

In nature, destruction often paves the way for new growth—volcanic eruptions create fertile soil, and forest fires clear the way for new growth. Likewise, Twitter’s spectacular collapse has left behind a vacuum, one that a smarter, better platform is already rushing to fill.

While Twitter continues its slow-motion implosion, another platform has quietly been proving that a better way is possible. Bluesky, the decentralized social media network originally incubated within Twitter itself, has emerged as the most promising alternative. Free from Musk’s pay-to-play ecosystem, Bluesky offers a user-first experience that feels like what Twitter could have been—if it had been designed with users, not profits, in mind.

Bluesky’s most obvious advantage is its innovative handle system. Instead of forcing users to scramble for whatever random username hasn’t been taken, Bluesky allows anyone to secure their identity using a domain name. This means that, for the cost of a domain registration (often under $5 per year), users can create a verified, unique handle that they fully control. No more dealing with abandoned accounts hoarding usernames, no more begging customer support to free up a handle that hasn’t been used in over a decade—just a simple, user-centric system that ensures people can actually claim the names they want.

Unlike Twitter, Bluesky also isn’t riddled with advertisements—and according to its leadership, it never will be. While Musk’s Twitter/𝕏/whatever has leaned hard into monetization schemes that prioritize paying users over organic content, Bluesky has explicitly rejected the traditional ad-driven model. Instead, the platform is developing a sustainable approach based on optional subscriptions, with premium features like enhanced profile customization and high-quality media uploads. Importantly, these perks don’t grant users algorithmic advantages or artificially boost engagement—they’re simply add-ons for those who want them.

Another key area where Bluesky outshines Twitter is in moderation and community control. Twitter has become a breeding ground for misinformation, harassment, and low-quality engagement farming, in part because Musk gutted its trust and safety teams. Bluesky, on the other hand, takes a decentralized approach that allows users to choose their own moderation settings. With its “marketplace of algorithms,” users can customize their feeds to reflect their interests and values, rather than being force-fed whatever content Musk and his inner circle want to promote.

This decentralized model is a fundamental shift from how social media has traditionally operated. Instead of a single corporation dictating what users see and how they interact, Bluesky puts control back in the hands of the people using the platform. Customizable feeds, community-driven moderation, and transparent development practices make it feel like a social network built for the public good, rather than a billionaire’s vanity project.

And while Twitter’s relevance continues to fade, Bluesky’s growth has been accelerating. After initially launching as an invite-only service, the platform opened to the public in February 2024—and the response was immediate. Bluesky surged past 30 million users in just a year, fueled by waves of disillusioned Twitter users looking for a better alternative. Every time Musk implemented another disastrous policy, a fresh wave of Twitter refugees found their way to Bluesky, solidifying its status as the most viable replacement.

Even financially, Bluesky’s model makes far more sense than Musk’s erratic attempts to force Twitter into profitability. Instead of relying on advertisers who are constantly fleeing due to brand safety concerns, or attempting to strong-arm users into paying for verification, Bluesky is focused on sustainable revenue streams. In addition to its optional subscription service, it has partnered with domain registrars like Namecheap to offer seamless custom handle registration, and it’s exploring other monetization methods that won’t compromise the user experience.

There’s also something else that sets Bluesky apart: it’s fun. While Twitter has become an exhausting, negativity-driven platform dominated by outrage and divisive content, Bluesky feels fresh and engaging. The culture on the platform is shaped by the users themselves, rather than by an algorithm designed to maximize controversy. Whether you’re looking for serious discussions, niche communities, or just a place to post random thoughts without being buried under a flood of paid promotions, Bluesky offers a level of authenticity that Twitter abandoned long ago.

Of course, no social media platform is perfect, and Bluesky still has challenges to overcome. Scaling a decentralized network is a complex task, and moderation will always be an evolving issue. But compared to the trainwreck that Twitter has become, Bluesky is a breath of fresh air. It proves that social media doesn’t have to be a hyper-monetized, algorithm-driven mess. It can be simple, user-friendly, and—most importantly—actually enjoyable.

As Twitter continues its downward spiral, the choice for users becomes clearer by the day. Do they stick with a broken platform run by an erratic billionaire who prioritizes profits over people? Or do they move to a social network that values transparency, user control, and genuine interaction?

The exodus from Twitter is already well underway. Bluesky isn’t just an alternative—it’s the future of social media. And for those still hanging onto Twitter, the only real question left is: what are you waiting for?

Bye Bye Birdie

As 𝕏 collapses under the weight of Musk’s ego and mismanagement, Bluesky has emerged as the future of social media—a place that actually functions, respects its users, and isn’t run by someone whose public appearances spark international debates over whether or not he just cosplayed as a Nazi.

Unlike Twitter, which has become a chaotic wasteland where visibility is auctioned off to the highest bidder, Bluesky remains an ad-free, user-centric platform that doesn’t treat basic functionality as a luxury. There’s no algorithmic manipulation pushing outrage-driven engagement, no “priority” status given to those willing to pay a monthly toll to Musk, and—most importantly—no suspicion that the platform’s leadership might be making subtle gestures to the far-right while overseeing its demise.

One of Bluesky’s greatest strengths is its handle system, which avoids the absurd username scarcity that plagues Twitter. Instead of forcing new users to settle for something like “JohnSmith872509345”, Bluesky lets users verify their identity through domain names. This means you can actually secure the handle you want, rather than fighting an army of long-forgotten bots and inactive accounts.

But Bluesky’s advantages don’t stop there. Unlike Twitter, where monetization has devolved into little more than a shakedown operation—pay for visibility or be buried—Bluesky has taken a different approach. There are no ads, no pay-to-play engagement schemes, and no $8/month ransom to make sure your posts are seen. Instead, Bluesky is experimenting with sustainable revenue models that enhance, rather than hinder, the user experience. Optional subscriptions will offer cosmetic upgrades, better media uploads, and other premium features, but none of these perks give paying users an unfair advantage in engagement.

Perhaps the most radical shift Bluesky brings to social media is its decentralized model. Unlike Twitter, which has become an algorithmic cesspool where controversy and outrage are prioritized for the sake of clicks, Bluesky gives users control over how they experience the platform. This means fewer doomscrolling traps and more actual conversations.

Meanwhile, as Musk’s Twitter grows increasingly erratic—whether it’s gutting moderation teams, amplifying right-wing propaganda, or turning basic functionality into a luxury item—Bluesky’s user base has exploded.

For those still hanging onto Twitter, waiting for some kind of course correction, it’s time to face reality: Twitter is never going back to what it was. It has been irreversibly damaged by Musk’s obsession with monetization, his open embrace of political extremism, and his inability to run a social media company without turning it into a circus. Bluesky, on the other hand, represents the future of what social media should be—simple, user-driven, and actually fun.

And now, over sixty years later, people are saying Bye Bye Birdie once again. But don’t worry—unlike Twitter, this story has a happy ending. As the song says: “Gray skies are gonna clear up, put on a happy face.”