Inside the Wild Process of Choosing Leafly's Strain of the Year

Summary – 1 Minute Read.

Deciding the Leafly Strain of the Year 2023 involves a complex and somewhat humorous process that goes beyond mere user reviews or sales numbers. It includes an opaque algorithm considering social media buzz, planetary alignment, and even quirky Google searches. The selection also involves trend analysis by experts and lobbying efforts from cannabis companies akin to political campaigns. Ultimately, the chosen strain reflects a blend of data crunching, trends, and a bit of behind-the-scenes influence.

Inside the Wild Process of Choosing Leafly’s Strain of the Year

So, you think deciding the Leafly Strain of the Year 2023 is all about a bunch of stoners sitting in a circle, passing around joints and voting for their favorite high? Well, bless your heart. If only it were that simple. In reality, it’s more like a Herculean task that involves data crunching, trend spotting, and yes, even some good old-fashioned bribery from cannabis companies.

First off, let’s talk about how we gather our so-called “data.” You see, we don’t just rely on user reviews or sales numbers. Oh no, that would be too straightforward. Instead, we use a complex algorithm that’s as transparent as mud. This algorithm takes into account everything from social media buzz to the alignment of the planets. We even consider how many times someone has Googled “THCa Locally” while under the influence—because why not?

Now comes the fun part: trend spotting. Imagine trying to predict fashion trends but with an added layer of paranoia and munchies-induced distractions. We have a team of experts who spend countless hours analyzing which strains are getting popular and why. Is it because they offer unparalleled euphoria? Or is it simply because some influencer said it pairs well with avocado toast? The world may never know.

And let’s not forget the lobbying efforts by cannabis companies. It’s almost like watching politicians campaign for votes—except instead of shaking hands and kissing babies, they’re offering free samples and exclusive tours of their grow operations. Who knew that choosing a strain could feel like navigating through a political minefield?

Ever wondered if your favorite strain didn’t make the cut because someone else had better snacks at their bribe party? Spoiler alert: It probably did.

Finally, after months of deliberation and enough red tape to wrap around the equator twice, we announce our winner with much fanfare—and then brace ourselves for the inevitable backlash from those who feel their beloved strain was unjustly snubbed.

So next time you see our Strain of the Year announcement and think it’s just another marketing gimmick, remember this: behind every choice lies an absurdly complicated process designed to make sure we’re giving you nothing but the best—or at least whatever’s trending on Instagram that week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How is the Leafly Strain of the Year chosen?
Answer: Through data crunching, trend spotting, and lobbying.
What kind of data does Leafly use?
Answer: Social media buzz, Google searches, and more.
Who analyzes the strain trends?
Answer: A team of experts at Leafly.
Do cannabis companies influence the decision?
Answer: Yes, through lobbying efforts and free samples.
Is user feedback considered in choosing the strain?
Answer: Not directly; it’s more complex than that.
What makes predicting strain trends difficult?
Answer: Paranoia and munchies-induced distractions.
Why might a popular strain not win?
Answer: Better snacks at another company’s bribe party.
How long does the selection process take?
Answer: Several months of deliberation.
Is the process transparent to consumers?
Answer: No, it’s described as “transparent as mud.”
What should you remember about the announcement?
Answer: It’s a complicated process ensuring top quality or trends.

Helpful Links:

Leafly – Comprehensive cannabis resource offering strain reviews, news, and industry insights.
High Times – Leading publication covering cannabis culture, trends, and news since 1974.
Cannabis Business Times – Industry-focused site providing business strategies, cultivation tips, and market analysis for cannabis professionals.
Weedmaps – Platform connecting consumers with dispensaries, delivery services, and brands while offering strain information and user reviews.
Marijuana Business Daily – News outlet delivering in-depth coverage of the cannabis industry’s financial and regulatory developments.
NORML – Advocacy organization providing updates on cannabis laws, research, and legal resources for consumers and activists.

Definition:

Leafly: An online resource that provides information on cannabis strains, products, and dispensaries.
Strain of the Year: A specific cannabis strain selected annually by Leafly as the most notable or significant for that year.
Wild Process: The intricate and possibly unconventional method used by Leafly to determine their Strain of the Year.

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