Our initial experience at Fleamasters Flea Market in Fort Myers turned out to be quite enlightening, showing us how rapidly people can form assumptions. We initially planned this weekend as an opportunity to showcase our local enterprise to residents of SW Florida, vacationers and prospective wholesale clients, but unfortunately, it concluded in a letdown.
While registering at the office Tony jokingly said "Are you selling magic mushrooms?" What an insult. People are extremely ignorant. As soon as we set up our stall and put our sign up, a lady charged towards us, accusing us of selling magic mushrooms. I explained we don't sell any mushrooms and we do not sell illegal products or drugs. This was a frustrating introduction of our local business, showcasing widespread misconceptions linking all mushroom cultivation to illegal activities. Despite mushrooms' vast and mostly legal biodiversity, many immediately assumed I was involved in illicit drug trade. This is particularly ironic considering my personal aversion to alcohol, smoking, and drugs, and my genuine passion for producing mushroom cultivation products, sparked by Paul Stamets' inspirational TED Talk on YouTube. We've decided not to revisit Fleamaster's and are exploring local farmers' markets which may offer a more informed and welcoming environment.
IMPORTANT: if you are thinking about growing Psilocybin Mushrooms, please know that it is a felony and a serious crime to cultivate them where they are illegal and we highly advise against it.
