Eelaron “E” Mathews (@e__double) was born and raised in Portland. After graduating from Jefferson High, he “dibbled and dabbled” in a few career paths. But it wasn’t until 2016 that he decided to jump into the blossoming Cannabis industry at Portland’s one-of-a-kind hip hop shop, Green Muse (formerly known as Green Hop). Fast forward a few years and you’ll find this well-studied fellow budtending and assistant managing at The Canna Shoppe on Halsey.
What motivates you each day?
I’m a father to the greatest seven-year-old on Earth. My daughter is a big motivator to keep my head up and keep pushing.
Talk to us about what you like to do outside of work.
About a year ago, I started making custom rugs. I got all the materials I needed and built a big frame in my dining room. Since then, I’ve been selling rugs via Instagram @RareRugs.pdx as a side hustle. When I tell you I’ve found my gift, I mean I really love to make rugs! There are so many sizes and shapes and colors.
If you were a famous magician, what would your favorite illusion be?
Voodoo! I like The Shadow Man from Disney’s ‘The Princess and The Frog’ … I have a seven-year-old daughter – don’t judge me (laughs).
What brought you into the Cannabis industry?
I was selected to participate in a Cannabis class that was being held at Green Muse (it was Green Hop at the time). There, I learned about the plant’s life from seed to sale and about all the different jobs you could get within the industry. A lot of people think you can only work as a budtender, but there’s so much more. And so much more money to be made.
If animals could talk, who do you think would be the rudest?
Animals can talk. Haven’t you seen Dr. Doolittle? Just kidding (laughs). I think crows and pigeons would be the rudest. They spend a lot of time in the city around people. And we all know how people can be sometimes.
What’s your favorite Cannabis adventure?
I’d say getting real baked and going to see a super good action movie, or riding the Lime scooters downtown with some friends. Or even chilling at home playing the PS5. Those are all once-in-a-while things. I’m honestly in love with the time I get to spend tufting rugs.
Some of your favorite munchies?
Ja’Das Soulful Eatz on MLK … or a big-ol’ sandwich (no tomatoes or onions ) … or Fish Fusion on MLK. ..or a big-ass chicken caesar salad from Papa Murphys.
Favorite music?
When and if I have the time, I like to listen to whole albums all the way through from beginning to end. Some of the artists that just take me there (especially when I’m smoking some “Strawberry Guava” from TJ’s Gardens) are Kendrick Lamar, Larry June or Nipsey Hussle. Lately, I’ve also been tapping into the local rap scene here in Portland for local artists like Mic Capes, King Wess, Backwood Burnie, Northside Tego and Foday.
