There’s no shortage of marijuana advocates, famous or not, that have significantly impacted the industry, as evidenced by the recent publication of the High Times’ 100 Most Influential People in the Cannabis Industry.

Dozens of leaders, innovators, and industry pioneers have helped shape the world of cannabis as we know it today – and we expect this list will only continue to grow.

As cannabis becomes more widely accepted, it’s essential to recognize the contributions of those shaping the industry today. We look at some of the biggest names in cannabis history today, highlighting how they’ve shaped the industry.

Jack Herer

Jack here is often called the “Emperor of Hemp,” a well-deserved nickname that highlights his incredible impact. 

Born in 1939, Herer spent decades advocating for cannabis rights in the U.S. He was the author of The Emperor Wears No Clothes. This 1985 book compiled a wealth of scientific and historical data about the Cannabis plant. The book has been continuously in print for more than 35 years and has served as a critical resource for advocates for cannabis legalization, decriminalization, and industrial hemp use.

Herer was also the founder and director of Help End Marijuana Prohibition (HEMP), which works to reshape marijuana policies and regulations. He tirelessly advocated for the many potential uses of the cannabis plant, including as a natural and renewable source of medicine, food, fuel, fiber, and more. 

The Jack Herer strain, a sativa-dominant hybrid, is an award-winning cannabis variety named in honor of Herer.

Willie Nelson

Most of us know Willie Nelson as an iconic singer-songwriter, but he has also become famous for his love and activism for marijuana. He serves as a co-chair of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) and has worked for decades to advance cannabis legalization efforts. 

In 2015, Nelson debuted an original line-up of cannabis products, “Willie’s Reserve.” He launched dispensaries in Colorado, Las Vegas, Washington, and Oregon, where his high-quality edibles, vapes, and accessories are sold. 

Because of his international fame as a music industry star, Nelson’s cannabis advocacy carries significant weight.

Tommy Chong

As one half of the beloved Cheech & Chong comedy act, Tommy Chong has long been a part of the entertainment industry. And even though his 1978 movie Up in Smoke poked fun at the stereotype of “stoners,” it represented a significant shift in the comedy genre. 

For more than 50 years, Chong has proactively worked to gain widespread acceptance for cannabis for medical and recreational use. In partnership with his longtime friend, Cheech Marin, he founded the Cheech & Chong Cannabis Company. Their collaboration aims to raise the standard for cannabis quality and innovation while introducing a new level of fun to the industry.

Keith Stroup

Keith Stroup is the founder of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), which has been a significant player in marijuana advocacy since 1970. 

For nearly a decade, he was the organization’s executive director. During that period, 11 states implemented cannabis decriminalization laws, and mainstream acceptance of cannabis gained ground. In 1975, the organization also helped Robert Randall, who became the first legal medicinal marijuana patient in the U.S. 

After a short period, Stroup returned to NORML and worked as an executive director and marijuana spokesperson. In 2005, he stepped aside to pave the way for new industry activists and innovators, maintaining a highly active role. Today, Stroup continues contributing to the cannabis community as a legal advocate, college lecturer, and activist.

Steve DeAngelo

Steve DeAngelo is a cannabis entrepreneur and activist who attributes much of his early inspiration to Jack Herer’s The Emperor Wears No Clothes. During his time with the Youth International Party, DeAngelo organized protests against the illegality of marijuana. He also collaborated with Jack Herer himself, partnering with the famous advocate on a U.S. tour promoting marijuana and hemp.

In addition to his campaigns for medical marijuana legalization, DeAngelo is the founder of several dispensaries. Among these dispensaries is Harborside Health Center, which holds the unique distinction of being the world’s largest cannabis dispensary.

In 2015, DeAngelo was honored with the High Times’ Grinspoon Lifetime Achievement Award.

Jane West

Jane West is a trailblazer for women in the cannabis industry as a successful entrepreneur and activist. She created an innovative company dedicated to cannabis-friendly social events, partnering with major organizations such as the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. But when anti-cannabis groups targeted her businesses, she faced significant obstacles- yet, she continued to pursue her goals.

In 2014, West founded Women Grow, an organization dedicated to nationwide cannabis networking. Two years later, she was named Inc. magazine’s most widely recognized female personality in cannabis. West also operates a successful brand that is 80% owned by women and people of color, seeking to provide equal representation within the industry.

Start Your Cannabis Success Story with Help from Marijuana Marketing Xperts

So many of today’s top cannabis brands and dispensaries were started by individuals who marijuana activists and leaders inspired. And if you want to find your place within the cannabis industry, MMX can help.

Our cannabis marketing agency comprises a skilled and knowledgeable team of experts who are incredibly well-versed in cannabis regulations, trends, and advertising best practices. We’ll support you in building a cannabis brand that encapsulates your personality and goals while working to develop and implement an effective marketing strategy.

Whether you want to launch a new dispensary, brand, or service, MMX is here to be your partner in success.

Learn more about how to start a cannabis business when you connect with our team today!

 

Photo Credits: imamyoi, paseven, Kamila Bay, Burunduk’s, design all, venimo, JoyImage, diluck, PanuShot