5 Lessons from the Authors of Why We Die and How to Live
When three minds, all with various backgrounds in medicine, herbalism, and holistic wellness, come together, you know the conversation is going to go deep.
In our latest episode of CashColorCannabis Podcast: A Higher Level of Conversation, we sat down with Dr. Felicia Dawson, Ooski Chevanier, and Marilyn Pierce, co-authors of Why We Die and How to Live. Their book is a deep dive into the crumbling health system in the United States and a blueprint for reclaiming health, balance, and truth in a system that often profits from sickness.
Here are five key lessons they dropped during our conversation:
1. The Healthcare System Isn’t Healing—It’s Hustling
Dr. Dawson called out how research and care are often dictated by profit, not prevention. “Research comes down to, can you get a patent on it?” she explained. True health, she says, starts with empowering people to take control of their wellness—not waiting for a prescription.
2. Cannabis Is Medicine—Not a Vice
All three authors stressed that cannabis isn’t just for recreation—it’s a holistic medicine that supports the body’s endocannabinoid system, the regulator of mood, stress, and immunity. “We’ve been lied to,” Dr. Dawson said plainly. Cannabis isn’t the problem—it’s part of the solution.
3. Our Ancestors Were the Original Scientists
Ooski reminded listeners that our ancestors didn’t just survive—they thrived using natural plant knowledge passed down for generations. The book reconnects that lineage to today’s health conversation, bridging ancient wisdom with modern science.
4. Healing Starts with Lifestyle—Not Pills
The authors made it clear that you can’t medicate your way out of a bad diet or lifestyle. Ooski urged listeners to embrace detoxing and fasting, while Marilyn encouraged a return to movement, rest, and clean, plant-based eating. “We can’t trust what’s in grocery stores,” she said. “But we can trust what we grow.”
5. Get Your Hands Back in the Dirt
Dr. Dawson explained how gardening literally heals from the ground up—helping the microbiome, boosting immunity, and grounding mental health. Ooski added, “Food loses nutrition in transit. When you grow it, you know it.” Their call to action? Reconnect with the soil and your own survival.
Watch the full interview this Friday at Noon on all streaming platforms.
