Alisha Edmonson on Music and Cannabis

My Name is Alisha Edmonson, I am a West Coast girl, via California, Arizona and Oregon. I’m the Co-owner of Songbyrd Music House and Byrdland Records, both located in Washington, D.C.

I didn’t find myself in terms of who I am today until I moved to Oregon.  There I found that you could be both serious in your career without your career having to be a rigid corporate job. It was in Oregon that I started exploring my love of music and art and food. 

“I love that this one plant can give me so many, nutrients, pain relief, and tons of household goods.  It is truly one of the most sustainable products out there.”

Byrdland Records at Union Market

My introduction to cannabis was through Hemp. I used to be a vegan and really struggled with getting enough fats (this was like 25 years ago there was no Whole Foods and not much to eat compared to now) and hemp seeds were a big part of my diet.  In later years CBD became a big part of my life. I love that this one plant can give me so many, nutrients, pain relief, and tons of household goods.  It is truly one of the most sustainable products out there. 

For aspiring home growers, my advice would be not to try to do everything the first time around.  The first year I grew I put together a whole list of equipment I needed and then gave up because it was so daunting.  Then, I just decided to try growing like I would a vegetable in the garden. I probably didn’t get the highest yield, but It was plenty for my needs and I learned a lot without taking a huge financial risk.  Also, super-important to me was to choose the right genetics for my particular needs.  

“The more we highlight great product and the more people know about great product the better we are all for it.”

I’ve had Rheumatoid Arthritis for 23 years and have really struggled with pain management and movement.  Properly made CBD oil and THC products have been a game changer for me, but I’ve found it hard to get consistent, honest products.  I’m excited to be a judge in the Hemp Category for the National Cannabis Championship. The more we highlight great product and the more people know about great product the better we are all for it.  I have walked away from some pretty damaging pharmaceutical drugs thanks to diet, CBD and THC, and I am excited to help highlight all the good stuff out there. 

If you live in the DC area, check out Songbyrd’s Spring concert line-up and stop by Byrdland Records when you’re in the Union Market area.