LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky expressed second thoughts over the platform’s decision to permit cannabis-related content. What started as an attempt to welcome discussions on emerging industries has, he admits, transformed LinkedIn into an unlikely hub of “green thought leadership.”

“When we opened the doors to cannabis conversations, we envisioned productive dialogue about job creation, regulation, and market growth,” Roslansky explained in an interview. “Instead, we’ve created a tidal wave of self-declared cannabis ‘gurus’ who apparently believe their insights are essential for every professional feed. It’s as if every other person has rebranded as a ‘Chief Herb Officer’ or ‘Cannabis Visionary.’ We may have let thought leadership go a little too far.”

The shift has led to an unprecedented surge in cannabis-related content, with a reported 420% increase in posts containing terms like “strain strategy,” “corporate wellness synergy,” and “the art of cannabis innovation.” For professionals used to a feed of marketing tips, leadership advice, and networking opportunities, the influx has been jarring.

“I joined LinkedIn to network with other legal professionals,” said Sarah Goldman, an attorney from Boston. “Now my feed is a mix of investment news, corporate updates, and someone named ‘Blaze Mastermind’ sharing the five life lessons he learned from growing Blue Dream.”

While the initial goal was to encourage open dialogue on a rapidly evolving industry, LinkedIn has found itself navigating an unexpected identity crisis. Experts from various fields now pepper their insights with references to “infused office culture” and “elevated networking.” There are even breakout groups on “executive cannabis mindfulness” and “peak productivity with CBD.”

Even LinkedIn’s own employees reportedly struggle with the shift. “Every time I refresh my feed, I’m bombarded with posts about ‘the future of THC in boardrooms,’” said one anonymous employee. “I joined this platform to connect people, not to watch every tech CEO start his journey as a ‘Cannabis Evangelist.’”

In response, LinkedIn has hinted at updates to its content algorithm, aiming to balance out the influx of cannabis commentary. “We’re not banning cannabis discussions, but we’re working on ensuring that other industries aren’t left in the dust—or the haze,” Roslansky clarified.

While cannabis advocates see the platform’s evolution as an inevitable reflection of the industry’s growth, many LinkedIn loyalists remain wary. “Cannabis has its place, but LinkedIn is still a professional network, not a virtual smoke session,” said a long-time user. “Maybe I’m old school, but I’d like to get back to posts on leadership tips and career advice.”

As LinkedIn weighs its next steps, Roslansky admits that navigating the green wave has been a humbling experience. “I wanted LinkedIn to lead in professional discourse, but I didn’t expect us to be leading in ‘strain strategies’ and ‘wellness wonders.’ Maybe there’s more for us to learn from this than we thought.”

For now, the platform will continue to monitor the impact of cannabis content, straddling the line between open dialogue and staying true to its professional roots. Users are left to wonder: will LinkedIn stay a place for professional networking, or is it on its way to becoming the world’s largest virtual smoke circle?