Discovering the Intersection of Cannabis, Art, and Community with Diane Kessler

Hey Babes! Today, I’m sharing a conversation with someone I’ve admired for years—Diane Kessler. She’s a quiet powerhouse who’s been shaping the cannabis industry from the inside out since 2011. From her early days at La Brea Collective’s Compassion Program to launching iconic brands like Emerald Way and managing standout shops like Sherbinskis, EMJAYS, and Erb & Arbor, Diane has done it all. Now, she leads Arts District Cannabis and founded All My Friends Are Dope, a platform that beautifully blends music, art, and cannabis.

Diane Kessler’s Cannabis Career: From Compassion to Culture

Diane’s journey began in 2009 when she moved to Los Angeles and fell in love with the community-centered cannabis culture. Her early work with compassion programs was deeply meaningful—she helped provide essential medicine to terminally ill patients at a time when care and access were limited. That work shaped her entire philosophy, showing her that cannabis could be a tool for both healing and connection.

From Sherbinskis to the Arts District: A Career in Cannabis Retail

Over the years, Diane built an incredible resume in the cannabis space. Whether leading in high-traffic, high-style shops like Sherbinskis or serving tight-knit communities in the Valley, she noticed how every store had its own rhythm, energy, and culture.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Diane provided steady leadership and created spaces that remained welcoming and safe. Today, at Arts District Cannabis, she’s made a home for art, cannabis, and community to flourish side by side—literally. The store features murals by local artists, attracting both locals and tourists looking for a cultural cannabis experience.

Blending Art, Advocacy, and Cannabis: Diane Kessler’s Impact

Diane’s vision goes far beyond dispensary walls. Through All My Friends Are Dope, she curates experiences that center art, music, and community. Her Harvest Sessions visual series, along with other upcoming events, highlight the work of local creatives and offer a place where cannabis culture is celebrated through an authentic, inclusive lens.

She’s not chasing hype—she’s building something real. Something that lasts.

Why Compassion Still Matters in the Cannabis Industry

One of my favorite parts of our conversation was when Diane talked about intentional consumption—honoring the plant not just for its recreational joys but for its deeply rooted medicinal power.

That mindset—grounded, compassionate, and patient-centered—feels rare in today’s fast-paced, corporate-driven market. But Diane reminds us that compassion isn’t outdated—it’s foundational. Her leadership is proof that you can grow with the industry without compromising your values.

Creating Authentic Spaces for Cannabis Conversations

Diane and I both believe in making room for real conversations. Whether we’re talking about immigration, art, identity, or healing, cannabis is often the connective thread. In a world that

often feels loud and performative, Diane brings quiet, thoughtful leadership rooted in authenticity.

Diane Kessler’s cannabis journey is a powerful reminder that leadership doesn’t have to be loud to be impactful. The Diane Kessler cannabis story is one of compassion, creativity, and quiet resilience—qualities the industry needs now more than ever. Her work inspires me to keep creating spaces for genuine storytelling, intentional networking, and community building. That’s what The Canna Boss Babes is all about.

Stay Connected with Diane Kessler and All My Friends Are Dope

To stay up to date on Diane’s work, events, and her next Harvest Session, visit:👉 allmyfriendsaredope.com Make sure to sign up for her newsletter—there’s so much good stuff coming your way.

✨ Let’s Keep Growing Together

Thanks for tuning in, Babes. The beauty of this plant and this movement lies in our ability to embrace diversity, share stories, and celebrate art in all its forms. Let’s keep showing up, growing together, and building something meaningful—just like Diane does.

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