JP Phillips loves hanging with friends and family when not creating music or viewing visual arts. Otherwise, you might find him checking out the latest anime or skateboarding all over SoCal before heading out into nature. Check out some San Diego music collectives he’s part of, such as AfroMantis, Drippy Pool Club and Global Therapy. Follow him @bluuzuli33.
You obviously love Cannabis, but what other medicines have you worked with?
I’ve got an extensive background in herbal and homeopathic medicine, so I’m all in. I’ve even participated in ayahuasca ceremonies as a guardian. Medicine is a very big part of my life.
How do you take that love for plants and apply it to servicing the good folks at Cookies when you’re budtending?
I use it as a conduit to connect. When I think of Cannabis specifically, I think of community and the magic it has in being able to dissolve barriers and connect people from all walks of life. I can’t think of another substance that brings gangsters, preppies, goths, you name it, together to sesh in a friendly fashion. You wouldn’t see that diversity of people anywhere else huddled up together. So, the way I treat customers is like family. San Diego is chill too; we’ve just got a lot of really cool people who slide in.
What is the main attribute that makes a great budtender?
They say if you can find a job that you love to do, you’ll never work a day in your life, so I’m just stoked to share all the product knowledge that I have. It’s important for me to not get stuck in any one lane. I like all of it: sativa, indica, hybrid, concentrates and flower — they all have distinct applications. So, I have extensive knowledge of the brands we carry and the desired effects. All those things included, with showing the right amount of love, are the key.
What are you digging now?
Obviously, Cookies, but also Ted’s Buds, Wizard Trees and Josh Wax. I love Josh Wax. Those are fire brands I’m currently suggesting, but then I pay close attention to what the customer is asking for based on their wellness needs, whether it’s for sleep, relaxation, energy or focus. I pride myself in being able to recommend terps like limonene, linalool, myrcene, etc.
Who is your top pick to roll up and smoke with, dead or alive?
I would like to smoke with Jimi Hendrix. Music is a constant in my life.
