Rev Kelly Addison, Founder at Kelly’s Green Lounge- Interview Series

Cannabis, revered for its transcendent properties, has been used as a tool for enlightenment, healing, and spiritual exploration for Millenia. From ancient rituals to modern interpretations, the thread of cannabis spirituality persists, offering a unique lens through which individuals navigate their spiritual journeys.

Rev. Kelly Addison stands as a luminary, shaping a space where community building, learning, and sharing converge—the KGL Network. As the founder and Managing Director of this innovative platform, Rev. Kelly has cultivated an environment that not only fosters education and advocacy in the cannabis space but also embodies a spiritual dwelling known as Kelly's Green Lounge. In this exclusive interview, we engage with Rev. Kelly to unravel the spiritual aspects of cannabis that propel her journey.

Rev Kelly, what you do is quite intriguing. Tell me a bit about yourself and how you found yourself in cannabis?

Thank you for having me. My journey into the world of cannabis is deeply personal. Battling complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), I discovered that cannabis played a transformative role in saving my life. This realization sparked a passionate commitment to sharing the therapeutic potential of cannabis with others. My hope is to empower individuals to navigate their own paths to healing.

Recognizing the medicinal and therapeutic properties of cannabis, I embarked on an educational journey and enrolled in various courses, ultimately earning a Science of Cannabis diploma from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. This academic pursuit not only solidified my knowledge but also fueled my determination to contribute meaningfully to the cannabis community.

I've always been incredibly empathic, and this sensitivity led me to live in the woods to avoid the overwhelming energy of cities. I discovered my ability to feel and heal people, becoming a vessel for healing through Reiki, universal energy, and Akashic records. This connection with energy blockages and plant medicine is what directed my path towards what I’m doing in cannabis today.

As the founder and Managing Director of the KGL Network, could you share the inspiration behind creating Kelly’s Green Lounge and the various components of the KGL Network?

The inspiration to establish KGL sprang from the transformative shifts occurring in the Canadian cannabis landscape. With an increasing number of individuals seeking information, I undertook courses to enhance my knowledge and better assist those approaching me. Situated on Main Street in Orono, Kelly's Green Lounge thrived with patrons prior to the pandemic; buzzing with a diverse array of activities, from comedy and crafts to karaoke and poetry, along with regular offerings like the Homeostasis Hippie course. Unplanned but profound, the lounge took on a quasi-religious essence, resembling a church in its structure and atmosphere. This unexpected evolution led me to become ordained as a cannabis minister. During COVID I found myself supporting a community that had organically gathered around the lounge. However, the pandemic compelled us to adapt; facing closure, we shifted operations to curbside deliveries and this of course halted activities at the lounge. Having been a broadcaster for years, I leveraged my media background and quickly transitioned from KGL radio to KGL TV. This adaptation allowed us to maintain our commitment to education, community, and advocacy.

Tell me more about the educational initiatives within the KGL Network

The educational arm, known as the Homeostasis Hippie branch of the KGL Network, represents a comprehensive course that I co-developed with another cannabis educator. This day-course is designed to provide individuals with insights on leveraging cannabis for achieving homeostasis. Accessible globally through an online platform, the course serves as a valuable resource for those seeking a nuanced understanding of cannabis applications.

In addition to the course, I authored a book titled “The Smelliest Flower in the Garden,” aimed at educating children about cannabis. This literary endeavor aims to dispel misconceptions by portraying cannabis in a positive light, contrary to its often negative portrayal. The objective is to foster a more informed and open-minded perspective among young minds.

Beyond written content, I actively engage in round table discussions, conduct workshops, and provide a platform for housing other knowledgeable cannabis educators within the KGL Network. I have also co-authored a book on talking to children about cannabis with Andrea Meharg, whose brand is Reveal Cannabis.

I firmly believe that cannabis education stands as the most effective tool in dismantling the stigma associated with cannabis. Through these varied educational initiatives, my aim is to contribute to a more informed and enlightened perspective surrounding cannabis use.

Rev. Kelly, your spiritual designation of cannabis sets you apart. Can you elaborate on the spiritual aspects of the plant that motivate you, and how has your journey as a Certified Reiki Master Practitioner influenced your approach to cannabis and spirituality?

A4: Cannabis, as a spiritual plant, complements my role as a Reiki master. It aids in connecting with spirituality and enhancing the metaphysical flow during sessions. My journey involves using cannabis to clear energy blockages and traumas, promoting holistic balance. The plant serves as a key to our endocannabinoid system, contributing to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

As the Inclusion and Diversity chair for the Canadian Cannabis Tourism Alliance, what initiatives or strategies do you believe are crucial for ensuring inclusivity and diversity within the cannabis industry? How can the industry better represent and serve a diverse community?

Inclusion is pivotal, especially considering historical injustices. Initiatives include open conversations about equity and diversity. I use my platform to shed light on the industry's disparities and advocate for change. We must address the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities and work towards fair representation and opportunities within the cannabis sector.

On a personal level, your love for cannabis is evident. How do you balance your personal connection with the plant and your professional roles as a Minister, Spokesperson, and advocate within the cannabis community?

Balancing my personal connection with cannabis and my professional roles involves aligning my passion with purpose. As a Minister and advocate, I integrate cannabis into spirituality, education, and community-building. It's about fostering a positive relationship with the plant while remaining committed to promoting its therapeutic benefits and eliminating stigma.

What’s next for Rev Kelly and the KGL Network?

My journey involves delving further into the metaphysical spirituality of cannabis. I'll be engaging in public speaking, teaching, and touring, while expanding my media brand with new content daily. Initiatives include making 420 a national celebration, legislative advocacy to improve current laws, and hosting more events in Canada. My focus is on continued growth, education, and contributing to the positive evolution of the cannabis community.