A Lawyer’s Journey from Law Books to Cannabis Coach

Meet Kate Johnson, a former attorney who reinvented her career as a Certified Cannabis Educator and Coach. In this episode we follow her path from law to cannabis education, learn how intentional cannabis use can support wellness, and discover how to live a full, balanced life while using cannabis responsibly.

Features

• Release Date: Monday, October 16, 2023
• Episode Number: Season 1, Episode 58
• Special Guest: Kate Johnson, founder of Your Kush Coach

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Why You Will Love This Episode

Kate Johnson demonstrates that cannabis can be integrated into a busy, successful life. As a long-time cannabis user, she found the plant supported her wellbeing and ultimately led her to leave law for a more meaningful career in education and coaching.

Her certifications include Cannabis Educator and Health Coach, and she is a professional “interpreter” of cannabis products—helping people choose the right forms, doses, and routines. Kate also founded the Cannabis Industry Association of Wisconsin to support entrepreneurs entering the field.

In this conversation, she shares practical tips, personal stories, and clear steps to safely and intentionally incorporate cannabis into daily life for better balance, connection, and resilience.

Full Transcript

Kate: I feel like I work for the plant. I’m the advocate for cannabis—my mission is to help people see how it can support a vibrant, full life.

Announcer: Welcome to the Well With Cannabis Podcast, where host Emily Kyle—a registered dietitian and certified holistic cannabis practitioner—shares stories and practical guidance so listeners can learn to use cannabis well.

Tune in weekly for honest conversations that educate and inspire, whether you’re new to cannabis or have used it for years. Each episode aims to demystify the plant and support safer, more effective use.

Disclaimer: These episodes are created for adult audiences and may include sensitive topics such as mental health, substance use, or explicit language. Content is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If any topic affects you, please seek professional support.

Emily: Welcome back. I’m excited to talk with Kate Johnson, the founder of YourKushCoach.com. Kate, thanks for joining us.

Kate: Thanks for having me. I’m honored to be here.

Emily: Tell us how you moved from a legal career to cannabis coaching.

Kate: I used cannabis for over 25 years, but for a long time it stayed separate from my professional life. I built a legal career—I was pre-med and studied biology before law school—but over time I felt disconnected from that work. I started asking what I really wanted to contribute. With the industry growing, I explored cannabis coaching, trained through the Cannabis Coaching Institute, and gradually transitioned to full-time after planning and saving.

Emily: Many listeners wonder what a cannabis coach does. Can you explain?

Kate: A cannabis coach works one-on-one to create individualized plans. We review your goals—whether relief from anxiety, pain management, or enhanced wellbeing—then recommend product types, doses, and timing. Cannabis can mean THC, CBD, or a blend, and a coach helps you choose the right option and avoid negative experiences. Educators also teach broadly about the plant, offering workshops or courses.

Emily: What kinds of services do you offer?

Kate: I offer a quick 30-minute Dispensary Decoder to help people navigate menus and terminology, and a deeper Personal Cannabis Consultation for dosing and product planning. I also run workshops and maintain a blog to provide reliable information.

Emily: For people worried about stigma or the leap into a cannabis career, what advice do you have?

Kate: Imposter syndrome is normal. Start small: study, build a plan, and take consistent steps. Reflect on where your fear comes from and do the inner work to unlearn limiting beliefs. You don’t need perfection to begin—incremental progress adds up, and many people will surprise you with support.

Emily: How has cannabis changed your life personally?

Kate: Cannabis has helped me connect—to myself, my family, and others. It’s supported my patience as a parent and improved quality of life without the downsides I associate with alcohol. I want to normalize intelligent, purpose-driven cannabis use and help others access that experience safely.

Emily: What final tips do you have for aspiring cannabis coaches?

Kate: Listen to your inner spark, make a plan, and break your vision into small steps. Learn continually, be humble about what’s unknown, and offer practical support so clients feel confident and safe with the plant.

Emily: Before we close, I ask my guests four quick questions. First: what are you most proud of?

Kate: I’m proud I had the courage to change direction and pursue work aligned with my values and happiness.

Emily: What would your life look like without cannabis?

Kate: I suspect I might rely more on alcohol and miss the deep inner connection cannabis provides. It has been a key tool for my wellbeing and relationships.

Emily: If you could tell your past self one cannabis-related tip ten years ago, what would it be?

Kate: Trust your inherent worth. Don’t search outside yourself for validation; look inward and be courageous about following what lights you up.

Emily: How do you want to be remembered in the cannabis space?

Kate: As someone who uplifted others and helped them feel excited and confident about integrating cannabis into their lives.

Announcer: You’ve finished another episode of the Well With Cannabis Podcast. Visit emilykylenutrition.com for show notes, transcripts, and resources. If you want ongoing support, consider joining the private Well With Cannabis Community for connection and encouragement on your cannabis journey.