About Chief
Who I am
My name is Ryan Johnson, better known as 420 Chief. I’m a retired Navy Chief who proudly served for 20 years, but like many veterans, I faced a battle that service never prepared me for—chronic pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, and the reliance on prescription medications and alcohol to cope.
For years, I was stuck in the cycle of pills, alcohol, and cigarettes, none of which truly helped. Then, I found cannabis—and it changed everything. It helped me break free from alcohol, quit smoking cigarettes, and eliminate every prescription medication I was on. This plant saved my life. And I’m not alone. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to educate, advocate, and support veterans through cannabis, music, and community.
What I Do
💨 420 Chief Podcast – I bring veterans onto the show to share their powerful journeys of healing through cannabis, breaking down the stigma and showing the real impact of plant-based medicine.
🎗️ Break Stigmas (501c3 Nonprofit) – I founded Break Stigmas to bridge the gap between veterans and civilians, creating a space for education, advocacy, and real support for those looking for alternatives to pharmaceuticals and harmful substances.
📖 Strains for Pains – I’ve authored a cannabis review book to help people find the right strains for their needs—because healing should be accessible to all.
🎶 Vibin’ with Chief (Music Therapy Live) – Three times a week, I host a live music therapy session, on TikTok where people can come together, vibe, and heal through the power of music.
🚐 Veteran Meetups & Advocacy – I travel the country, connecting with veterans, sharing resources, and fighting for safe, affordable, and stigma-free access to cannabis. Cannabis isn’t just about recreation—it’s about survival. The current policies restricting access and imposing excessive costs are barriers to healing for countless veterans and patients. It’s time to change that. Join me in breaking stigmas and building a future where veterans and everyday people have the freedom to heal. 💚🔥
