Rooted in Idaho: How One Shop Grew into a Voice for Change

Sean Crystal’s journey to advocacy began long before 710 Spectrum opened its doors. Born and raised in Idaho, his connection to the land and its people runs deep. For more than two decades, he observed cannabis reform debates unfold while holding fast to his core values of faith, freedom, and fairness. Back when conversations about hemp-derived products were still hushed, Sean spoke up for common-sense change.

With nothing more than a tax refund, a modest 401(k), and a shared conviction, Sean and his partner, Chelsie, launched 710 Spectrum in Idaho Falls. They had seen neighbors cross state lines or turn to unsafe sources for medical relief. Their vision was to build a store grounded in federal law compliance, clear education, and genuine compassion.

From day one, their shelves carried only third-party-tested products that met the 2018 Farm Bill’s requirement of no more than 0.3 percent delta-9 THC. They respected Idaho’s strict approach to hemp, where even trace levels of THC risk legal ambiguity. The mission was clear: follow every rule, inform each customer, and bring integrity to an often-overlooked corner of the wellness market.

Just four weeks after opening, law enforcement seized more than 80 percent of their inventory. No charges, no warnings, no due process. No evidence of wrongdoing was ever found, yet the products were never returned. In an instant, most of their investment was wiped out. A lifetime of advocacy turned into a battleground. For Sean, this was a turning point—a stark reminder of how quickly confusion can take hold in an evolving industry, and how vital it is to stand firm on your principles even when the odds are daunting.

Sean and Chelsie didn’t back down. They restocked their shelves, reopened their doors, and invited federal regulators in for tours—still answering every question about testing, labeling, and sourcing with full transparency. Sean was determined for 710 Spectrum to set a new standard, showing that hemp-derived products could be offered safely, legally, and respectfully in Idaho. The raid didn’t silence him; it clarified his mission.

Despite the financial strain and emotional weight, they pressed forward. They rebuilt trust one conversation at a time and leaned into their community. They illustrated the purpose behind their perseverance by sponsoring youth sports teams, music nights, and civic events.

710 Spectrum quickly became more than a store—it became a safe space. Customers facing chronic pain, anxiety, and PTSD found not only trusted products but also compassion and guidance. It’s clear when Sean and Chelsie talk to their customers that they aren’t just trying to make a sale; they’re here to listen and offer hope.

One customer shared that she began experiencing grand mal seizures after a car accident. Conventional treatments failed her: seven prescriptions, including five anti-seizure drugs, couldn’t stop her terrifying episodes. After trying a product Sean recommended, she experienced her first seizure-free period in years. After months with no seizures, her doctor suggested she might soon be able to drive again. Stories like hers are what keep Sean committed to the mission.

Today, Sean and Chelsie are leading the fight against House Joint Resolution 4, a proposed constitutional amendment that would eliminate the public’s ability to vote on marijuana and similar substances. Unlike past proposals that raised signature requirements, HJR4 will block citizen-led initiatives on these issues entirely,  ceding all decision-making power to the Idaho Legislature and stripping voters of their right to petition for change.

Through every challenge, Sean has stayed grounded in faith, integrity, and service. What started as a small shop has grown into a movement for justice. His next step may be a run for Mayor of Ammon, bringing a steady, principled voice to public service.

710 Spectrum is more than a business. It’s a commitment to truth, compassion, and an Idaho where the people are heard.