MadManPlant Joins For The Second Time in the American Autoflower Cup Judges’ Panel

Set to take place on January 31st at Be True Los Angeles, the American Autoflower Cup welcomes Stefan Walter, better known as MadManPlant, to its official judges’ panel.

A long-time educator, storyteller, and advocate, Stefan has become a familiar and respected voice in the cannabis space. His work explores how the act of growing cannabis mirrors the act of personal transformation - both requiring patience, care, and an understanding of one’s environment.

As the founder of MadManPlant LLC, he transformed his own grow room into a space of reflection and recovery, bridging mental health and cultivation in a way that few others have done.

Through his platforms SmokeBusters Media and Vindec EU: Healing the Hustle, Stefan has made it his mission to connect the dots between self-care, purpose, and the power of the plant. His message is simple but profound: cannabis can be both medicine and metaphor - a tool for healing, growth, and creativity.

In his recent writing on How Cannabis Empowers Mental Health and Personal Growth, Stefan explains how intentional cultivation can serve as a grounding practice, helping people reconnect with their emotions and surroundings: “When you grow a plant, you’re not just tending to it - you’re learning patience, consistency, and compassion. You’re reminded that growth takes time, but it always comes.”

This philosophy of mindful growing and human connection aligns perfectly with the spirit of the American Autoflower Cup - an event dedicated to celebrating innovation, creativity, and the people behind the genetics. With more than 80 entries expected for 2026, each judged for flavor, aesthetics, potency, and expression, Stefan’s holistic view adds a meaningful layer to the evaluation process.

Beyond his work in cultivation and storytelling, Stefan’s approach represents a broader movement within cannabis culture - one that values community over competition, wellness alongside yield, and authenticity above all else. His guiding question captures that perfectly:

“How can you grow a great garden if you can’t grow a great human?” 

And wherever Stefan goes, Honey, his loyal companion and four-legged co-creator, follows. Honey isn’t just a presence - she’s part of the story. Often seen beside him at events and on set, she embodies the calm, grounded energy that defines Stefan’s approach to both life and growing. Her presence brings warmth and connection, a reminder that compassion and care - for our plants, for our people, and for ourselves - are what make this community thrive.

Together, Stefan and Honey will join the Cup’s judging team at Be True Los Angeles on January 31st, 2026, adding a voice and a spirit that reflect the heart of modern cannabis culture.

Their participation reminds us that the American Autoflower Cup isn’t just about competition - it’s about community, wellness, and the shared love of a plant that continues to inspire, connect, and heal.

With MadManPlant joining a powerhouse panel that includes leading voices like Danny Danko, Kyle Kushman, and Jenn Doe, the 2026 Cup promises to be more than just a showcase of genetics - it’s shaping up to be a celebration of craft, culture, and consciousness.

Join the movement! See you in Hollywood!