Since the arrival of my first child, discussions about motherhood have drastically shifted. We are now more open and honest about the challenges of postpartum life, fertility struggles, and the overwhelming feelings of burnout—especially during the pandemic. While these conversations are crucial, many aspects of motherhood remain stigmatized, one of which is the topic of cannabis use.
Despite the advancements in our understanding, there is still a lingering stigma around cannabis consumption. It’s 2021, and we know that the cannabis of today is far removed from the stereotypes portrayed in films like Half Baked or Dazed and Confused.
Enter Mia Thompson, one half of the Brooklyn-based duo behind GreenLeaf & Co., a chic cannabis lifestyle brand. Alongside co-founder Zoe Martinez, she is determined to shatter the stigma surrounding mothers who use cannabis or work in this industry.
“GreenLeaf was born from our desire to combine our passion for design with our love for cannabis,” Thompson shared during a recent phone interview. “Both Zoe and I have been cannabis enthusiasts since our teens, but our needs evolved as we grew older and developed more sophisticated consumption habits. We were frustrated that the market didn’t reflect our personal style.”
Transforming Perceptions Through Design
The initial goal was to bring cannabis consumption out of the shadows and into the open, making it a part of everyday life. Thompson realized that the products available for cannabis use had not evolved alongside the changing perceptions of the plant. The aim was to create items that could be proudly displayed in homes, rather than hidden away.
“There’s no reason to feel ashamed about enjoying cannabis; our products should reflect that,” Thompson emphasized. They offer a range of stylish grinders, designer pipes, and gourmet CBD chocolates, featured in trendy boutiques and lauded by publications like InStyle and Rolling Stone.
Cannabis in the Context of Motherhood
Cannabis use has shifted from just “getting high” to serving various purposes—like unwinding after a long day, aiding sleep, or enhancing intimacy, especially for mothers. The pandemic has further amplified these needs. However, mothers who turn to cannabis for such reasons often face societal judgment, which can vary significantly based on geographic location. Thankfully, the internet has provided a platform for these discussions.
“As mothers, we’re constantly judged regardless of our choices,” Thompson remarked, but online communities allow for more open conversations, often without the fear of criticism.
A Purpose-Driven Cannabis Brand
GreenLeaf is not only focused on destigmatizing cannabis use among mothers but also supports organizations that uplift women, especially women of color who have been disproportionately impacted by cannabis criminalization. They contribute 5% of their monthly profits to the Unity Foundation in Atlanta, which assists mothers in need.
Balancing Motherhood and a Cannabis Career
When Thompson first ventured into the cannabis industry, she hesitated to discuss her work due to potential backlash. Over time, however, it has become easier. Like many new mothers, she faces challenges while trying to grow her business.
Establishing boundaries between work and home life has been vital. As the main caregiver to her ten-month-old son, she has learned to navigate work in a way that complements her family. For motivation, she looks to other mothers achieving success in their careers.
“There are so many incredible moms out there managing businesses and making a difference,” Thompson said. She finds inspiration through podcasts and social media, showing her that it’s possible to balance both motherhood and a career.
As conversations surrounding motherhood continue to evolve, there is still room for more discussions about cannabis and normalizing its use. “We’re entering a new era where people can tailor their experiences to meet their needs—whether it’s for sleep, anxiety relief, or rekindling intimacy,” Thompson explained. With brands like hers leading the way, society is slowly recognizing that today’s cannabis is not the same as it was in college, helping to dismantle the stigma that surrounds motherhood and cannabis use.
For more insights related to this topic, check out this article. You might also find useful information on fertility supplements at Make a Mom, and an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination can be found on Healthline.
Summary
This article explores how Mia Thompson is navigating the intersection of motherhood and a career in the cannabis industry through her brand, GreenLeaf & Co. It highlights the ongoing stigma surrounding cannabis use, especially among mothers, and how Thompson aims to normalize these conversations. By creating stylish cannabis products and supporting charitable causes, she illustrates the evolving landscape of motherhood and cannabis consumption.
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