Steve McCarthy: Founder & Cannabis Advocate

With over 25 years of cannabis study and hands-on experience, Steve McCarthy has dedicated his life to the responsible use and education of cannabis as a holistic medicine. His journey began with at-home cultivation and personal use to effectively manage severe anxiety and sleep disorders—a testament to his belief in cannabis as a natural alternative to prescription medications.

Steve’s deep-rooted passion for cannabis led him to co-found Coastal CBD, Coastal Cannabis Distributors, and The Cannabis Pharmacy in 2017. Steve made a principled decision to focus exclusively on the medical channel, prioritizing patient outcomes over profit. By committing to high standards of product quality, independent lab testing, and medical education, Steve has positioned himself as a trusted authority within the cannabis community.

An Educator and Pioneer in Medical Cannabis

Steve’s expertise goes beyond product development—his greatest contribution lies in education and patient advocacy. Steve has been directly involved in the CBD/Cannabis industry and led the following initiatives:

• Trained thousands of medical professionals—pharmacists, doctors, nurses, and more—on integrating cannabis into their patients’ care plans, improving the lives of tens of thousands of individuals.
• Developed an extensive curriculum to educate medical professionals on cannabis science and applications.
• Personally coached thousands of patients through direct consultations via The Cannabis Pharmacy’s call-in line, affectionately dubbed “The Batphone.”

In addition, Steve has been a guest lecturer at institutions like the Clemson University School of Nursing, where he shared insights with faculty and Nurse Practitioner students on the medical benefits of cannabis. He continues to collaborate with organizations like the Georgia Pharmacy Association and State Pharmacy Associations nationwide to ensure medical professionals are equipped with the knowledge to help their patients.

Transparency and Industry Accountability

Steve has been a leader in pushing for higher industry standards, advocating for full-panel independent lab testing (COAs) for every product—a practice The Cannabis Pharmacy has upheld since its inception. His unwavering commitment to transparency and safety has earned him the trust of both patients and healthcare providers in an otherwise unregulated industry.

Driving Innovation in Cannabis Product Development

Steve has worked closely with over 50 leading manufacturers, contributing to the research and development of formulations specifically for patient needs. His expertise spans the entire cannabis plant, including CBD, THC, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes. This patient-focused approach has allowed Steve to guide product adjustments based on real-world feedback, ensuring they address critical issues like sleep, pain management, and overall wellness.

The Cannabis Pharmacy: A Trusted Leader

Steve McCarthy, one of the two founders and owners of The Cannabis Pharmacy has grown into one of the largest distributors for dozens of trusted brands while launching its own line of high-quality products. Through educational content, testimonial videos, and direct collaboration with medical professionals, Steve has solidified his role as an authoritative figure in the cannabis industry.

A Lifelong Commitment to Cannabis Education and Advocacy

Steve’s journey is defined by dedication, integrity, and innovation. Whether he’s educating pharmacists, guiding patients, or advancing cannabis product standards, his work has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals. His mission remains clear: to provide safe, effective, and transparent cannabis solutions while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in holistic healthcare.