Ricky Williams and His Toolbox to Higher Living

Before cannabis became legal for adult-use in California and, at this point, 38 other states in the U.S., the plant held a stigma that continues to attach itself to people in the same way its smell lingers on clothing. Participating in recreational use, however much or little, earned patrons the names, "stoner," "pothead," "druggie," and maybe even being compared to Cheech and Chong. 

But with the growing number of cannabis farms, distributors, and consumers across the country, use of the once-taboo product is becoming more mainstream while helping individuals achieve and inspire their goals.

This is exactly how San Diego local Ricky Williams, founder of cannabis company Highsman, shaped his brand's message prior to its launch in 2021. On the debut episode of The Plant Lady, San Diego Magazine managing editor and long-time cannabis reporter Jackie Bryant sits down with the former NFL running back to chat about the newest developments with Highsman–a clever play on words intermingling sports lingo with the names of his cannabis products. It's also a quick flex on his Heisman trophy win while playing for the Texas Longhorns.

The Plant Lady features guests who touch various aspects of cannabis culture and business at a pivotal time in the history of legalization. A cannabis consumer herself, Jackie also seeks to dismantle the prevailing stigma surrounding marijuana use by opening up the conversation to those who feel similarly.

Williams is emphatic about the positive impact cannabis had on his day-to-day throughout the past two decades, which led him to create Highsman. In this episode, he says the brand stands more for the message of appreciating greatness over anything else. His introduction to the herb as part of his wellness routine eventually paved the way for the brand's mission today: to grow the best weed and help people catch a vibe. 

He also credits having completed the Ganjier program, which is basically a sommelier-type certification for cannabis–enlightening him to better cultivation practices, like with living soil, which he believes results in better quality cannabis, a better smoke, and, therefore, better overall wellness.

"I'm obsessed with my mental health," he says on the show. "Because I know no matter how much success I'm having in my job, in my work, if I'm not right with myself, I can't enjoy any of it … In the same way if my whole life is falling apart, but I'm OK with myself, I can enjoy the adventure."

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