Michele Parrotta Takes Time 4 Hemp
Canada’s Cannabis Queen
Written by Casper Leitch
In a world where the cannabis conversation is rapidly evolving, Michele Parrotta, better known as Mimi Cannabis, stands out as a bold, brilliant, and blazing force for change. With nearly five decades of lived cannabis experience and over eight years of professional leadership in the industry, Parrotta is not just advocating for access to medical marijuana and hemp products, she’s redefining how we think about cannabis culture, especially for older adults.
Born and raised in Kingston, Ontario, Michele spent over 30 years in the hospitality and human resources world before making a radical and inspiring pivot in her 50s. At a time when many people are winding down their careers, she was just heating up. Fueled by her lifelong passion for cannabis and her desire to educate others, Michele launched MC Lifestyle Inc., a company focused on helping “mature newbies” navigate the growing legal marijuana market. Whether through medical cannabis consultations, partnerships with companies like Mendo Medical, or retail guidance tailored to seasoned adults, Michele’s mission is simple: empower people to make informed, confident cannabis choices.
More Than a Brand, It’s A Movement
Through MC Lifestyle Inc., Michele has created a multi-dimensional platform that goes far beyond selling products. She’s mentoring new users, advocating for medical cannabis access, supporting Indigenous and legacy growers, and helping shape a more ethical and inclusive industry. Her brand extends into Mimi’s Joint Jewelry, a stylish and nostalgic collection of cannabis-inspired accessories that can be found in stores across Canada and the United States. By blending her background in hospitality, human resources, and sales with her love of cannabis, she’s carved out a unique space that’s equal parts education, empowerment, and elegance. Her unique style can not be ignored.
But Michele’s influence doesn’t stop at the store shelf. She’s worked with over 175 cannabis companies across Canada and internationally, advising on everything from cultivation techniques to retail strategy. As a familiar face at events like the Lift\&Co Expo, where she’s served as a brand ambassador, she consistently promotes professionalism, transparency, and good business practices in an industry still finding its footing.
Advocating for the Under-served and Often Overlooked
One of Michele’s most important contributions is her unwavering focus on older adults who are either returning to cannabis or discovering it for the first time. She affectionately calls them mature newbies, a demographic that’s often under-served, under-informed, and overlooked in the mainstream cannabis narrative. Michele helps demystify consumption methods, reduce stigma, and introduce cannabis as a powerful wellness tool that can aid with everything from chronic pain to sleep disorders.
Michele’s work with Mendo Medical has been especially impactful, helping patients connect with healthcare providers who understand cannabinoid therapies. Her goal is clear: ensure that medical cannabis is treated as a legitimate and accessible healthcare option for all, regardless of age. Her advocacy also extends to ensuring the legacy market and Indigenous producers are recognized and included in the legal industry, a vital move toward equity and sustainability.
Changing Cannabis Culture, One Conversation at a Time
Whether she’s speaking at an event, coaching a new cannabis user, or consulting with industry leaders, Michele Parrotta brings a unique voice to the cannabis conversation, one that is informed by experience, driven by compassion, and backed by business savvy. Her story is proof that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, challenge outdated narratives, and become a leader in a movement that is transforming health, industry, and culture.
For activists working to end hemp prohibition, expand the hemp retail market, and secure access to medical marijuana, Michele’s journey is a powerful reminder that change doesn’t always come from legislation alone, it comes from people like her who dare to lead with heart, honesty, and hustle.
Michele Parrotta isn’t just teaching us how to use cannabis, she’s showing us how to build a more inclusive, respectful, and empowered cannabis community. One “joint” at a time.
