Looking back, writing a foreword to a book on the cannabis industry was never part of the plan . . . definitely not. In fact, working with the cannabis industry was not something I ever expected to happen in my life.
My cannabis journey started five years ago and changed my life forever. I would like to think fate intervened, because I was an unlikely candidate. I was virtually unknown to the cannabis industry; I never smoked or consumed cannabis, and here I was being tapped by the Governor’s Office to head up the Bureau of Cannabis Control, an agency that hadn’t even been created yet but was expected to regulate this newly legalized California cannabis industry.
The mere thought of undertaking this tremendous task was both intimidating and terrifying. I kept telling myself this was not for me, but my gut was tugging at me to accept this appointment. It was a challenge of a lifetime and a chance to quell those feelings in my heart that I was not good enough.
It was a grueling task that tested every facet of my being, including learning from the ground up about this remarkable and resilient industry. It was leadership boot camp even for the most seasoned regulator. Along the way, I encountered extreme highs and lows, lots of self-reflection, anxiety, teamwork, and personal sacrifices, and I finally learned to accept the accomplishments despite the criticisms.
I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve the cannabis industry and all the wonderful people I met along the way. Jamie was someone I came to know and respect during this journey. Strong and fiercely independent, she is a passionate force who always gave her opinion even when I did not necessarily want to hear it! She was committed to the cause of making cannabis legalization work.
Jamie’s unique personal story takes you through the tumultuous legalization of the biggest cannabis market in the nation. It is raw, honest, and unexpected . . . not unlike Jamie.
Lori Ajax
Chief, Bureau of Cannabis Control (2016–2020)
California’s first “Cannabis Czar”