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How Genomics Are Revolutionizing The Cannabis Plant

By Shadd Dales On Oct 31, 2025

What happens when cannabis cultivation meets true genetic precision? TDR Trade To Black Podcast, presented by Advanced Nutrients, is launching a brand-new segment exploring the future of cannabis science and cultivation. Host Shadd Dales and co-host Anthony Varrell sit down with two of the most influential minds in cannabis genomics: Brendan McKernan, CEO of Medicinal Genomics and architect of CannMed, and Kevin McKernan, the genomic scientist who first sequenced Cannabis sativa. Together, they’re decoding how genomic mapping, pathogen defense, and AI-driven breeding are transforming the business of cannabis from the ground up.

As the industry moves beyond trial and error into data-driven breeding and disease prevention, we’re entering a new era of cultivation science — one that could redefine how growers scale, protect, and profit from the plant. From protecting cultivars and IP to leveraging genetic insights for yield optimization, this episode dives into the real science shaping tomorrow’s cannabis industry. Whether you’re a grower, investor, or policy watcher, you’ll walk away with a clearer view of where cultivation is headed — and why genomic intelligence may be the next major growth engine.

Kevin dives deeper into plant IP and genetic fingerprinting, sharing real-world cases where timestamping helped settle legal disputes. Though full patents are often unnecessary or costly, their sequencing technology offers a lightweight IP protection alternative. The conversation also highlights the potential for smart contracts based on these genetic timestamps.

A significant portion of the episode discusses how automation, machine learning, and even AI models like ChatGPT-5 are revolutionizing bioinformatics and data analysis in cannabis genomics. Brendan and Kevin preview the upcoming 2026 CanMed conference in Lake Tahoe, marking its 10th anniversary, which will include global policy discussions and genomic workshops. They also call for more lawmakers to attend the science-led event to help bridge regulatory gaps.

This discussion is about data, innovation, and practical steps toward smarter cannabis cultivation in a tightening global market. Tune in for the full discussion.

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Shadd Dales

Shadd Dales is the Founder and President of The Dales Report and has an extensive background in the business media industry.

His work translates into over 15 years in mainstream media that included roles with BNN Bloomberg, CTV Properties and the iHeart Radio Network.

Shadd is considered one of the leading on air talents in both the cannabis and psychedelic space and has interviewed some of the most notable CEO names in the industry.

Shadd’s vision is to establish a content platform that is equivalent to a mainstream broadcast produced in a format that is relevant for today’s investor.