From Pot to Popular

The pace of innovation and change in the cannabis industry is relentless, so remaining eager and adaptable is key to ensuring success. As regulations evolve at the state and federal levels, opportunities have arisen for operators to attract new customers, educate both experienced and inexperienced consumers on cannabis, and provide memorable and elevated experiences through consumption lounges. With lounges set to open in Nevada this year, operators are looking to create safe, clean atmospheres for guests to enjoy cannabis in a fun and engaging setting. In this episode, Brandon Wiegand, chief operating officer at Thrive Cannabis Marketplace, discusses the future of cannabis consumption lounges, the delicate balance between catering to tourists vs. locals, and how lounges can differentiate themselves in the market. Brandon also talks about the challenges of competing against a robust illicit market, what growth looks like for Thrive, and why there are benefits to waiting for federal legalization.

Midterm elections are drawing closer while voters are preparing for ballot initiatives on cannabis in Maryland, Arkansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, Missouri and Oklahoma. The upcoming votes may carry large implications when forecasting the future for the legalization of cannabis in the United States. What’s the next move for U.S. policymakers if cannabis becomes legal in 25 states? In this episode, Brian Vicente, Founding Partner of Vicente Sederberg LLP, discusses lessons learned from his time writing the legislation that brought cannabis legalization to Colorado in 2012 and explains how his firm grew to be one of the largest in cannabis law. He also offers insights on this year’s November ballot initiatives and tells us why the opening of adult-use stores in New York is a major milestone for cannabis policy worldwide.

With every passing moment, emerging industry innovators are looking for new ways to penetrate the market and create new distribution channels. As the cannabis space continues to develop, new businesses continue to pop up, but how exactly does a 150-year-old brand adapt and identify a path to success? In this episode, Scott Grossman, corporate development vice president for Turning Point Brands, reflects on his early experiences in the cannabis reform space, emphasizes the importance of brand building and discusses the evolution of the iconic Zig-Zag brand. He also offers insight regarding his transition from a more behind-the-scenes role in business investment to a public corporate development role with Turning Point Brands. Along the way, Rosie and Scott talk about what excites them in different cannabis markets across the U.S.

Cannabis entrepreneurs face a number of challenges with cash management while navigating a strict financial framework preventing most major banks from working with the cannabis industry. Passing the SAFE Banking Act would open doors for more financial institutions to assist cannabis operators, but will that immediately solve all of the industry’s payment processing problems? In this episode, Daniel Muller, CEO and Founder of Aeropay, explains how his company evolved from providing payment solutions to local businesses in Chicago to applying the same technologies to process compliant digital cannabis payments. He discusses how Aeropay differs from cashless ATM payments and shares his vision for the growing payments ecosystem and the rapidly evolving technology within the cannabis space.

The success of any industry is largely dependent on those who work in it and the cannabis industry is certainly not exempt. Dynamic leaders in the human resources field are needed to put the best candidates in a position to succeed as a company grows and evolves. In this episode, Tyneeha Rivers, chief people officer at Curaleaf, highlights the qualities she looks for in a potential Curaleaf team member, discusses the retention strategies needed to retain high-performing talent and examines what the future holds for her company. Rivers also explains how the 25 years of human resources experience she gained from working for the Philadelphia 76ers, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, Curio Wellness and various Fortune 500 companies has prepared her for role at Curaleaf. Before concluding this in-depth discussion about human resources in the cannabis industry, Rivers offers advice to those looking to enter the cannabis job market and highlights the need for diverse workspaces as the industry continues to expand.

The cannabis beverage sector is becoming increasingly competitive with each new product, offering a wide variety of seltzers and infusions to consumers across the company. With this in mind, brands looking to break into the beverage space must enter with a unique, distinguishing perspective to stand out. In this episode, Warren Bobrow, founder of Klaus, discusses how his brand’s cannabis beverages differ from the rest. He emphasizes the need for simplicity in recipes and sourcing high-quality ingredients from around the world to create the best-tasting beverage possible. Leveraging his mixologist expertise, Warren explains the nuances of craft cannabis and his goal of creating a new dialogue around beverages in the space.

Inconsistent regulations, ever-evolving markets and rapid growth across sectors mean that cannabis companies do not and cannot operate in the same way as traditional, mainstream brands. In this episode, Aaron Miles, chief investment officer at Verano, discusses his experience in taking two cannabis companies public, expanding the brands nationally and navigating industry pain points. He highlights the necessary changes cannabis companies must make in order to run efficiently and shares the nuances of industry challenges in regards to aspects like banking, federal and local regulation, raising capital and more. Miles also shares how Verano’s new partnership with Mission Green will further efforts to assist companies whose success has been inhibited by cannabis prohibition.

Cannabis brands and dispensaries have traditionally lacked access to retail data in comparison to mainstream industries. In this episode, Pistil Data CEO Jeffrey Graham explains how he combined his expertise in analytics with his experience at Twitter and Google to revolutionize the way cannabis brands pinpoint promising sales opportunities and understand their local competition through targeted data. Jeffrey also shares his insights on successfully fundraising at this stage of the industry and his outlook on future growth opportunities.

The cannabis industry has experienced astounding growth over the past several years, but has done so with both hands tied behind its back. Cannabis operators are still barred from accessing institutional capital, thanks to the plant’s federally illegal status. Fortunately, there are a number of lenders navigating around these challenges and connecting cannabis businesses to the capital they need to thrive. In this episode, George Mancheril, CEO of Bespoke Financial, discusses his company’s mission to leverage fintech expertise to provide non-dilutive financing options to companies across the supply chain. He explains how Bespoke operates as a bridge between capital and cannabis, illuminating the challenges faced in cannabis financing and predicting the role that financial institutions will play when cannabis is finally legalized.

Taking your cannabis dreams from idea to reality takes many more steps than entrepreneurs realize, starting with an often complicated licensing process. In this highly regulated industry, the guidance of a cannabis-focused lawyer can make all the difference. In this episode, Dina Rollman, SVP of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Green Thumb Industries, discusses the critical role she played in building up cannabis in the Midwest through litigation and fostering diversity in the space. She explains that rising operators need to apply for licensing with their vision and story in mind, and that barriers like money and access often hinder the success of social equity applicants. Dina also emphasizes the importance of lifting up others through programs like Illinois Women in Cannabis and LEAP at GTI, which work with aspiring cannabis professionals to help them break into the industry in a variety of ways.

The cannabis industry is nothing without its cultivators. With increasing demand around the country, it is more essential than ever to optimize cultivation operations and provide top-tier expansion capabilities. In this episode, Sam Andras, executive vice president of professional services at urban-gro, discusses how urban-gro sets itself apart in the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) sector. Providing a spectrum of CEA offerings including facility design, engineering, integrated cultivation systems and more, urban-gro is a leader in cannabis cultivation support. Sam explains the importance of building a knowledgeable, experienced team in an evolving industry as well as the necessity of services like urban-gro in allowing cannabis cultivators to be flexible in their designs and collaborate with the client to bring their cultivation goals to fruition.

As the cannabis industry matures and more states come online for recreational sales, it is more essential than ever that leaders from around the country collaborate, network and share solutions for cannabis pain points. Like traditional CPG industries, trade shows are an effective and essential avenue to bring together the leaders of the cannabis industry and discuss the issues of today. In this episode, Kim Jage, co-founder of Jage Media, the creators of the MJ Unpacked trade show, discusses how their unique event pushes cannabis into the future. She explains the cannabis industry’s need for collaboration amongst top industry executives, facilitated by events like MJ Unpacked that foster meaningful conversation and solution-oriented innovation. Kim also talks about their upcoming New York City event and the topical issues that will be discussed, including brand-building via licensing, how CPG and retail brands translate coast to coast and what restorative justice in cannabis looks like.

Women make up a significant consumer demographic in cannabis, yet remain underrepresented in both positions of leadership and product selection on dispensary shelves. Female entrepreneurs in cannabis are essential to pave the way for future leaders and create products designed specifically for women. This episode features Olivia Alexander, CEO of Kush Queen, a female-focused luxury cannabis brand. Olivia shares her journey from budtender to CEO and explains the importance of women breaking barriers in the male-dominated industry. She talks about the ways in which cannabis can benefit women specifically, how small companies drive cannabis innovation and how business can meet the rising demand for ethical cannabis business and consumption.

Raising capital in an industry that is federally illegal is no easy feat. Fortunately, commercial real estate lenders have allowed the industry to grow and thrive by providing reliable fundraising alternatives to cannabis ventures unable to access institutional capital. This episode features Travis Goad, managing partner at Pelorus Equity Group, the longest-running commercial real estate lender in the cannabis sector. Travis discusses the company’s unique approach to funding cannabis businesses as well as the opportunities for real estate within the industry. He also underscores the importance of identifying your company’s niche and excelling in that area to entice investors and facilitate mergers.

Like cannabis, the stigmas around intimate health—especially for those with vaginas—often keep consumers from purchasing products that would improve their daily lives. At the intersection of these two sectors, brands like Quim work to break down barriers and develop products that leverage plant-based wellness to address the sexual health issues faced by many. In this episode, Cyo Nystrom, co-founder and CEO of Quim, talks about her journey from making homemade topical products to scaling a successful cannabis-based sexual health brand. She explains her strategy for messaging and raising capital while highlighting the importance of empowering consumers to take control of their own personal health.

How does an Oregon edibles brand become one of the leading brands in the United States? In this episode, Ben Gaines, director of marketing at WYLD, discusses how the brand grew their simple concept of a quality cannabis gummy to a coveted national brand. He outlines the essential company qualities that bring a vision to reality, including responsiveness, passion, integrity and commitment to consumer engagement. He also explains WYLD’s dedication to social impact and clear steps to make a difference in social equity and sustainability in the cannabis industry while sharing his priorities in authentically marketing a top-tier brand.

When it comes to product innovation in cannabis, it is essential to keep science at the forefront to ensure quality and consistent experiences. Considering how numerous patients and consumers use cannabis in their daily routines, it is vital to fully leverage existing cannabinoid research and the expertise of cannabis scientists during the R&D process. In this episode, Ari Mackler, chief product officer at PLUS Products, discusses how his expansive background in science, academia and medicine prepared him to bring evidence-based approaches to cannabis product innovation. He explains how PLUS uses science to define its products and emphasizes the need for further clinical research to enhance the industry’s scientific understanding of cannabis.

While many industries have been grappling with the “Great Resignation,” employees around the country are clamoring for cannabis employment in all sectors. With this influx of interest comes a need for state-of-the-art human resources and human capital management to support cannabis operators and their employees. In this episode, Scott Kenyon, CEO of Wurk, shares key insights as the leader of the largest payroll and HCM software provider in cannabis. He shares how cannabis business human resources needs have evolved while advising companies on maintaining engaging, supportive company culture.

Like any emerging industry, legal cannabis will not be able to reach its full potential without the support of lawyers in all sectors. In this episode, T. Andrew Brown, president of AWH New York and president of the New York State Bar Association, offers his unique perspective as an attorney on the future of cannabis in the state of New York and beyond. As New York begins to establish the framework of its legal market, he emphasizes the importance of embedding social equity components into legislation to address the impact of cannabis prohibition head-on. He explains the ways in which AWH is working to create meaningful and equitable legislation and support efforts in record-sealing, expungement, education and more to build up the communities most affected.

The cannabis retail ecosystem is nearly unrecognizable compared to its earliest iterations, and much of the sector’s growth can be attributed to LeafLink, the industry’s largest B2B wholesale platform. In this episode, Ryan G. Smith, co-founder and CEO of LeafLink, discusses his early days as an entrepreneur, why cannabis was a thrilling prospect for his next venture and how the company has successfully scaled and matured alongside the industry. Touching on the importance of building the strongest team possible and how social equity standards can be achieved in the industry, Ryan shares key insights as a pioneer in cannabis tech.

Despite its presence as a major emerging industry in the United States, cannabis has long lacked a key component to legitimizing its place in the mainstream business community: streamlined banking. In this episode, Len Tannenbaum, Founder and CEO of AFC Gamma, discusses his journey to becoming the head of the largest NASDAQ-listed cannabis investment firm and an influential figure in cannabis banking. Len explains AFC’s goals of bringing tailored expertise into the cannabis banking space and the need for safe, efficient institutional banking to support cannabis as the industry continues its rapid growth.

Federal cannabis regulation in the United States is not an “if,” but a “when.” With legislation like the SAFE Banking Act still on the table in Congress, access to traditional financial services for cannabis operators is inching towards being a reality. In this episode, Brady Cobb, policy advocate and CEO of Bluma Wellness, explains where cannabis stands in Congress and what needs to happen in order for the SAFE Banking Act to pass. As a successful cannabis entrepreneur, he also shares his advice for aspiring cannabis business owners on the skills needed and challenges to prepare for when entering markets and scaling a brand.

How does a brand go from being a startup to the largest MSO in its industry? In cannabis and beyond, it takes intelligent leadership and a constant feedback loop with consumers to grow to such impressive heights. In this episode, Kim Rivers, CEO of Trulieve, talks about how Trulieve prioritizes connecting with their consumers to ensure customer trust and allow the business to take root in a variety of markets. She discusses the necessity of embracing the changes and fast-paced nature of the industry, innovating based on consumer feedback and adapting to the many different types of markets throughout the states.

The cannabis industry faces a multitude of challenges, from sporadic legalization across states to inconsistent regulations. The lack of federal legalization has created a glaring problem in the financial sector of the industry. Without access to banking and payment opportunities, cannabis operators often struggle to expand the way that they want to, thus hindering the growth of the industry as a whole. In this episode, Josh Radbod, co-founder and CEO of the PBC Conference, explains the ways in which the public and private sectors can work together to solve the problems of banking, compliance and payments in cannabis. He explains how the PBC Conference brings these groups together to better propel the industry forward.

All established industries have some level of baseline best practices. But with cannabis only a decade into its legal years, new recruits entering the space often lack experience, knowledge and basic proficiencies from the start, making it difficult for all industry players to be on the same page. Max Simon, CEO and founder of Green Flower, recognized this problem and created the tools to address it. In this episode, Max talks about the need for standardized baseline knowledge for all professionals entering cannabis. He elaborates upon the types of training that Green Flower provides and how such training can help to fix many of the problems that the industry currently faces.

There are brands that have lasted for a hundred years. Household names like Procter and Gamble or Clorox are prime examples of traditional CPG companies that continue to succeed because of their strong foundation. With the right strategies and a strong team, CPG brands in cannabis can establish the same names for themselves. In this episode, Troy Datcher, CEO of The Parent Company, shares his insights on what the cannabis industry can learn from CPG, and vice versa. With 30 years of experience leading big-name brands, Troy explains the pillars of a long-lasting brand, the power of partnerships, and his long-term vision for bringing The Parent Company brands into the mainstream.

Social equity and the cannabis industry go hand-in-hand. Given cannabis’ controversial and discriminatory past, it is essential for leading operators to give back to communities that have been the most impacted by the War on Drugs. In this episode, Gary Santo, CEO of TILT Holdings, talks about his company’s unique approach to partnerships and supply chain and delves into the historic partnership TILT has created with the Shinnecock Nation of New York. He explains how MSOs like TILT can do more for social equity than just donations, and can go further by creating sustainable solutions that bring marginalized communities into the cannabis space and help them thrive for years to come.

In a fledgling industry like cannabis, unexpected challenges can arise as retailers work to maximize their full potential. One such issue is that of payment. Cannabis is a traditionally cash-based industry and many mainstream credit cards will not allow for the purchase of a federally illegal product. ATMs at dispensaries are at risk of transaction fees and scammers, and only accepting cash can inhibit a retailers’ ability to upsell. In this episode, Cathy Corby Iannuzzelli, Co-Founder and Chief Payments Officer at KindTap, explains the ways in which her company works to fix this broken system within the cannabis space. By facilitating payment for the diverse cannabis consumer demographic, KindTap aims to make paying for cannabis purchases as seamless as buying any mainstream product.

Up to 90% of cannabis consumed is inhaled—people just prefer smoking. With vaporizers gaining more and more traction in the cannabis space, new technology is needed to keep safety at the forefront of the trend. In this episode, Mladen Barbaric, Founder and CEO of Airgraft, explains his company’s unique approach to vape innovation and their push to create an affordable product amidst a competitive market. He talks about the need for trustworthy vape offerings in the market, the importance of safe heating hardware, and how consumers can choose quality products that suit their own lifestyles and preferences.

Gathering around a few drinks with friends is an elemental part of our social lives. While alcohol has a foothold in the adult beverage category, the cannabis beverage sector is growing, giving consumers another option for their drink of choice in a social or private setting. In this episode, Matt Melander, President and CFO of LEVIA, the brand behind the #1 selling infused seltzer available in over 100 dispensaries in Massachusetts, talks about the explosive growth of the sector and the ways in which cannabis beverages appeal to consumers across demographics. He explains how cannabis beverages seamlessly fit into the social norms established by alcohol and how beverages have the potential to facilitate universal cannabis normalization in the near future.

The cannabis industry in the United States has deep roots in Black American culture, and yet the growing legal market lacks representation of the very communities that built these foundations. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential that BIPOC cannabis professionals, as well as those interested in breaking into the industry, are involved in the development of the very policies that will affect them. In this episode, Kristi Price, founder of KRMA Media Inc. and the Black CannaConference and Expo, discusses how she works to “fill the gap.” She explains the importance of highlighting the stories of POC within the cannabis space, and shares her goals for this year’s Black CannaConference in November—bringing together minority entrepreneurs and allies alike to discuss how to create an inclusive and impactful cannabis space.

As brands grow in scale and expand into new markets, it can be challenging to maintain a consistent level of product quality. All too often, expanding is a big risk for businesses—executives need to be strategic in order to help their product succeed in new markets. Vishal Rungta, CFO, President, and Co-Founder of C3 Industries, is an expert on successful brand expansion and quality control. In this episode, Vishal gives his insight on developing a unique brand experience and the importance of having a foundation of high quality products. He emphasizes the need for consistency throughout all operations in order to scale in a manner that does not sacrifice quality and elaborates on his strategies on expanding into new markets.

Legal cannabis businesses are being met with unmatched consumer and investor interest as the industry continues to mature, but many companies are still hampered by archaic regulations. Many entrepreneurs in the space continue to advocate for sweeping regulatory reforms, but which laws will actually allow cannabis companies to operate like their mainstream counterparts? In this episode, Jigar Patel, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of NorCal Cannabis Co., discusses the advantages of having legacy knowledge of the cannabis industry in the state where the legal market began. He explains the changes he hopes to see in terms of the tax reform that would free industry operators from the red tape of regulation.

Work ethic, accountability, and pushing through challenges—all lessons from a life as an athlete that translate to the world of cannabis entrepreneurship. Everett Smith started his career as a professional basketball player before transitioning to the cannabis space, carrying this athlete mentality with him the whole way. In this episode, Everett Smith, Co-Founder and CEO of Presidential Cannabis Co., gives his advice on identifying needs in the market, building a premium brand, and engaging with consumers directly. From in-store promotions to building relationships with world-class raw goods growers, Everett discusses how he was able to build a multimillion dollar brand in California.

By now, most people know about CBD products and its many potential benefits, but only one third of those individuals have actually given cannabinoids a try. This statistic reflects a major opportunity for CBD brands to fill in that gap and bring the benefits of CBD to a much wider audience. In this episode, Chondita Dayton, CEO of Liweli and Steady State Brands, discusses her accessibility-based philosophy to creating daily CBD wellness products. She dives into what major indicators are key to brand-building potential in the cannabinoid space and shares her perspective on effective brand-building for long-term success.

Sustainability and best business practices are not mutually exclusive. In the highly competitive California cannabis market, creating quality products with sustainable cultivation techniques is one way to differentiate your brand from thousands of competitors. In this episode, Graham Farrar, President and Co-Founder of Glass House Group, talks about how his company was able to become the second highest selling flower in California last year. By integrating sustainable practices that maximize efficiency and minimize cost, Farrar explains how Glass House Group successfully cultivates products that consumers keep coming back for.

Not many investors can say that they’ve been in the cannabis space since the days of penny stocks. A volatile market with booming highs and deep lows, it takes a pro to successfully navigate cannabis investments. In this episode, Jason Spatafora, long-time cannabis investor and “the Wolf of Weed Street” on Twitter, shares his journey within the cannabis markets. He discusses his predictions for the industry as legalization approaches, advises new investors on success in the industry, and shares his hopes for cannabis in the coming years.

The stigmas that still surround cannabis usage often alienate women from enjoying its benefits and partaking in the culture. With rising trends advertising the wellness aspects of cannabis, it is important to remember that cannabis is also used for fun. In this episode, Brett Heyman, Founder of Edie Parker, discusses the ways in which her fashion brand has expanded into the cannabis industry with the aim of “making it okay for women to use cannabis.” She talks about how her team pushed through the challenges faced by cannabis brands to welcome women into the cannabis space with their high-quality, vintage-inspired, and fun cannabis accessories.

Since 2014, CBD has grown from a relatively unknown ingredient to one of the most sought-after products on the market. While CBD has become a mainstream product, many science-backed brands are striving to develop a set of standards to set the industry up for long-term success. In this episode, Stuart Tomc, SVP of Business Development at CV Sciences, discusses the importance of trustworthy and transparent labeling, what types of extracts and dosages consumers should look for and how CV sciences became the first brand to prove the safety and efficacy of CBD.

As cannabis becomes an increasingly mainstream industry, brands in this space are also developing more accessible consumption methods for everyday customers. In recent years, infused products have exploded in popularity, especially in the beverage sector. In this episode, we sit down with Ben Larson, CEO of Vertosa, to talk about how his company is changing the industry with their understanding of nano-emulsion technology in cannabis products. Ben discusses how Vertosa’s technology is able to “unlock the power of the plant” and how his team supports other brands by creating the most reliable and forward-thinking ingredients on the market.

Consumers and investors alike have begun rallying around the U.S. cannabis industry, and several top multi-state operators are stepping into the spotlight. In this episode, we talk to Jonathan Rubin from Phyto Partners about the driving forces behind the U.S. market’s exponential growth, as well as difficult lessons investors and business leaders learned from Canada’s adult-use rollout. Jonathan also shares his insights about the future of ancillary businesses and the most compelling investment opportunities that are on his team’s radar.

There’s no doubt that cannabis legalization is sweeping the globe, but the rate at which regions are opening and the priorities of countries varies greatly. Europe’s market and infrastructure lags behind the U.S. and the focus continues to be on the medical market. But with U.S. MSOs like Curaleaf acquiring cannabis companies in Europe, momentum is building. In this episode, Stephen Murphy, Co-founder and Managing Director of Prohibition Partners discusses what the current cannabis landscape looks across Europe and what opportunities are ripe for investors and companies.

When you think about premium cannabis, what comes to mind? Meticulously grown flower with a sweet aroma and distinct terpene profile? Luxurious THC-enriched body oils to soothe everyday aches and pains? What if we told you that the future of premium edibles may lie in French pastry? In this episode, we speak to Sebastien Centner, co-founder of Hervé Luxury Edibles, the world’s first luxury cannabis edibles company. Sebastien walks us through the time-intensive process of developing consistent and quality edibles, why Las Vegas was the optimal market to launch a premium product and how luxury products can pique the interest of the everyday cannabis consumer.

Producing consistent yields has been a longstanding challenge for even the most experienced cultivators. Agrify, a developer of premium grow solutions, aims to make the cultivation process as streamlined and predictable as possible. In this episode, we talk to President and CEO Raymond Chang about the importance of utilizing technology to establish cannabis as the next CPG space and the global opportunities in store for cannabis cultivation.

CBD has become one of the most popular wellness products among mothers, and Ashley Reynolds, was an early advocate for the holistic properties of cannabis when she co-founded Elmore Mountain Therapeutics in 2017. In this episode, we talk to Ashley about how her own postpartum experience led her to CBD, how small private businesses can create a blueprint for industry-wide standards and the power of community in the cannabis space.

An appreciation for craftsmanship often emerges as certain consumer industries become more developed and sophisticated, and cannabis is no exception. Just like with wine, spirits, and coffee, cannabis is gaining a steady following of connoisseurs seeking out premium experiences. In this episode, we speak to Sam Ghods, CEO of Connected Cannabis Co., one of the top premium brands in California. Sam shares how he leveraged his vast expertise in the tech startup space to scale Connected, and how his team has embraced the complexities of the plant to cultivate industry-leading consumer products.

While cannabis consumers seemingly have endless products and brands to choose from these days, brand discovery and engagement are still significant obstacles for legal companies. Since 2015, Nugg has been finding novel ways to improve patient and consumer retail experiences. The company first created NuggMD, the nation’s largest cannabis telemedicine platform and recently launched Nugg Club, the industry’s first true cannabis subscription box, in Southern California. In this episode, we talk to co-founder and CMO Alex Milligan about the critical role customer feedback has played in the company’s growth and how subscription boxes complement the digital future of cannabis retail.

LeafLink, the go-to wholesale marketplace for retailers, brands and distributors, has played an integral role in the maturation of the industry. In this episode, we talk to the company’s first hire, Claire Moloney about the greatest shifts in the wholesale market and how retail insights are being leveraged by policymakers. As LeafLink’s current Senior East Coast Regional Director, Claire also shares what consumers may expect in this emerging market and how regulators can set up these future businesses for success.

Cannabis businesses often say they are in the business of nurturing the well-being of their patients and customers, but how does that translate within their own corporate culture? In this episode, we talk to Stevens Sainte-Rose and Fanny Sheumaker from Parallel, one of the fastest-growing MSOs in the country, about how their team is creating a corporate benefits and rewards ecosystem that is supporting the next generation of cannabis workers. Stevens and Fanny discuss how companies can better serve the growing millennial workforce, what dictates company culture and where new cannabis hires are coming from.

As mainstream cannabis consumption has taken off, so has the demand for cannabis accessories, one of the fastest growing sectors within the industry. In this episode, we talk to Aaron LoCascio from Greenlane about his nearly 20 year entrepreneurial journey in the accessories space. Aaron shares how taking a hyperlocal growth strategy in the company’s early days allowed Greenlane to eventually become a global distributor of cannabis accessories and discusses why ancillary companies are integral to the investment ecosystem within the cannabis industry.

In this episode, we discuss industry trends, the future of the Florida market and the importance of consumer education with Todd Rosales, the host of Elevate Your Grind --one of the most popular podcasts in the industry. Todd shares with us the most impactful conversations he’s had on his show, new conversations he hopes to dive into as the industry continues to mature, and how leaders can tell their most authentic stories during interviews.

As the mainstream adoption of cannabis consumption continues to rise, more media outlets are taking note and covering the rise of the industry from a variety of perspectives. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of cannabis coverage with Sarah Jacoby, Associate News Director at SELF Magazine. As one of the first mainstream reporters to cover the industry, Sarah examines how cannabis has become more prevalent in conversations around mental health and politics. Sarah also identifies which stories resonate most with readers and provides her insights on how cannabis companies can work with journalists to strengthen consumer trust.

Hemp farming has become increasingly popular since the 2018 Farm Bill was passed, but patchwork federal and state regulations, unpredictable demand for the crop and numerous operational obstacles have prevented farmers from experiencing the full benefits of this lucrative industry. Dave Weir, the Co-Founder & CEO of First Crop, hopes that his public benefit company can create a framework for better farming and business practices for stakeholders in the hemp space. In this episode, Dave discusses key principles First Crop operates by to create a sustainable, stable and healthy system for hemp farmers, provides unique insights on the future of hemp applications and outlines how all players in the cannabis space can be better stewards of the emerging industry.

The past year has awakened the sleeping giant that is Michigan’s retail market. Adult-use sales jumped by over 280% in 2020, making the Wolverine State one of the top markets in the country. Gage Cannabis Co., one of the fastest growing operators in the industry, not only recognized the long-term potential of the state early on but was also able to anticipate the enormous demand for cannabis when adult-use sales came online. In this episode, company President Fabian Monaco shares why Michigan’s recreational rollout has been so successful, how Gage has been able to keep customers engaged through their product offerings and what the company’s upcoming IPO will mean for investors and consumers alike.

On-demand delivery of common household goods, groceries and meals has become part of everyday life, especially since the start of the pandemic. As consumer demand for cannabis continues to climb, more legal business and industry leaders are ramping up efforts to claim their own stake in this critical retail space. Lantern, one of the few on-demand cannabis delivery marketplaces in the industry, has taken a unique approach to building a scalable platform that also addresses specific consumer needs. In this episode, Meredith Mahoney, President of Lantern, discusses how her team is making the e-commerce experience more approachable for new consumers, the importance of building out a user-friendly marketplace, and outlines tangible steps the company is taking to support social equity candidates in the industry.

Despite growing mainstream demand for legal cannabis, effectively reaching the right consumer remains one of the greatest obstacles to retailers and brands. Current regulations have shut out the legal industry from advertising on popular social media platforms, but springbig, the industry’s largest customer loyalty and CRM platform, has developed an ecosystem of modern solutions to help brands and retailers successfully engage with and retain their ideal customer. In this episode, Co-Founder and CEO Jeffrey Harris shares how springbig’s technology has evolved to cater to the industry’s growing demands, what retailers should consider when developing loyalty programs and outlines the best ways to maximize marketing ROI in this competitive space.

Encumbered by strict regulations and ongoing legalization efforts, cannabis is arguably the final frontier of retail and e-commerce. In this episode, Socrates Rosenfeld, Co-Founder and CEO of Jane Technologies, examines what it takes to build a retail platform that empowers consumers, brands and retailers all at once. Soc also discusses how his military background drove him to create a product that increases cannabis education and accessibility, the importance of establishing a baseline of real information for consumers and how COVID-19 has upended the cannabis retail space for the better.

As an early investor in the legal cannabis space, Matt Hawkins, Founder and Managing Partner of Entourage Effect Capital has had his finger on the pulse since 2014. In this episode, Matt discusses what long-time investors are prioritizing as the industry continues to mature and identifies sub-sectors that still have more potential to grow. Matt also examines how cannabis is being embraced by more mainstream players and how investors are leveraging social and political tailwinds to build a more sophisticated industry.

Throughout the past decade, legal cannabis has become a lucrative and established industry on the West Coast. Now, the same opportunities are quickly emerging on the East Coast, especially after last year’s consequential election. In this episode, Todd Sullivan, Co-CEO of Cannapreneur Partners, explains why the next wave of legalization is imminent on the East Coast and how investors are preparing for the next Green Rush. Todd also discusses why partnership-based investment strategies are especially important in cannabis and how companies can leverage their resources to make a positive impact in communities that can benefit the most from legal cannabis.

In recent years, the West Coast has been synonymous with the legal cannabis industry, but a new class of multi-state operators are rapidly scaling in emerging markets on the Midwest and East Coast. One of the most visible heavy hitters in the space is Jushi, an MSO with key operations in Pennsylvania, Illinois and Virginia. In this episode, company President and Co-founder Erich Mauff discusses how Jushi is making the right bets in the right markets, what it takes to scale sustainably in a volatile environment and why the company puts an onus on data-driven decisions.

Cannabis became one of the hottest commodities in the U.S. after a year defined by political and economic uncertainty. Favorable retail, social and political climates have now placed the legal industry in a position to flourish this year. In this episode, Todd Harrison, Founding Partner and Chief Investment Officer of CB1 Capital Management examines the most prominent growth opportunities for MSOs and the importance of doubling down on education to create pathways for mainstream acceptance. Todd also shares what excites him most about the future of cannabis innovation and his top companies to watch in the coming year.

Despite cannabis’ essential status in 2020, many retailers struggled with fluctuating shut down regulations and were slow to pivot in their respective markets. In this episode, Bruce Macdonald, Chairman of the Board of C21 Investments, discusses how the operator was able to prevent pandemic-related losses through staying nimble in Nevada. Bruce also shares key insights into running a cash flow positive cannabis business, what it means to grow sustainably and how C21 is navigating potential political hurdles in 2021.

Legal cannabis has exploded in popularity over the past few years and has piqued the interests of mainstream brands around the world. One tech company is aiming to bolster the mainstream market potential of cannabis through data, education and artificial intelligence. In this episode, Chad Bronstein, the Founder and CEO of Fyllo, discusses how cannabis consumer data will transform the future of the CPG marketing ecosystem. Chad also shares his insights about the top regulatory barriers companies should be mindful of and the importance of building a cohesive business team in the cannabis start up world.

Legal cannabis has made considerable social and political headway this year as the go-to product for mental and physical relief, but there are still a number of racial equity issues that have yet to be addressed by key industry players. Mary Pryor, Co-founder of Cannaclusive and Chief Marketing Officer of TONIC CBD, has been one of the most vocal advocates for a more inclusive industry that amplifies the talents, voices and contributions of BIPOC cannabis entrepreneurs and consumers. In this episode, Mary discusses how education and honest intentions are the cornerstones of an effective equity plan and outlines her top policy priorities for newly legalized states.

For nearly a decade, scientists and entrepreneurs in the cannabis space have been developing technologies that address niche issues that are specific to the industry. As legal cannabis has become more sophisticated, a number of companies are beginning to recognize the universal applications of their technologies. This year, in the midst of a global pandemic that pushed mainstream testing and medical companies to their limits, PathogenDx adapted its microarray testing platform, originally developed to detect cannabis-specific microbes, to test for COVID-19. In this episode, CEO and co-founder Milan Patel discusses the potential universal applications of cannabis science, how PathogenDx is using its two NIH grants to advance COVID-19 diagnostic technology, and what comprehensive cannabis safety and testing standards should look like.

In recent years, public demand for legal cannabis has exploded --largely due to increased interest from female consumers, the fastest-growing demographic in the cannabis space. In this episode, April Pride, one of the first entrepreneurs in cannabis who created a specific consumer space for women, discusses why the legal industry may never reach its full potential without the help of female consumers. April also examines how marketing cannabis as a wellness product acted as a successful inroad to female engagement, why education and scientific research is paramount to reaching consumers in the future and the steps established cannabis entrepreneurs can take to create a more inclusive and equitable industry.

The therapeutic properties of cannabis have been widely embraced by patients and medical professionals over the past decade, but cannabis medicine is still lagging behind in the female healthcare and wellness space. Carrie Mapes and Patty Pappas recognized the pressing need for cannabis products that specifically catered to women in their age group when they were unable to find holistic forms of relief during the throes of menopause. In this episode, the co-founders of Hello Again discuss the evolution of cannabis in women’s healthcare, the process of marketing cannabis products to women that grew up during the War on Drugs, and how becoming first-time entrepreneurs in their fifties gave them confidence to thrive in this emerging industry.

Cy Scott has been immersed in legal cannabis long before many entrepreneurs recognized the industry’s potential and has founded two of the most impactful technology companies in the space. In this episode, Cy talks about the market pain points he aimed to address when he founded Leafly and Headset and how data has enabled consumer-facing companies to rapidly scale and mature. Cy will also discuss how real-time cannabis data is increasingly being leveraged by established industries and how these insights will pave the way for mainstream acceptance.

Public perception of cannabis products has come a long way in the past few years. In the nascent years of the legal industry, many products were still sold in ziploc bags with inconsistent dosing and unpredictable effects. Cameron Clarke and Keith Cich recognized the urgency of this issue early on and decided to address this pervasive matter by founding Sunderstorm. In this episode, Cameron and Keith discuss how cannabis product consistency facilitates consumer trust and mainstream appeal, what legal companies can do to compete with the illicit market, and why the future of the industry depends on science-based approaches.

Nearly a decade ago, the emerging legal market was shrouded in uncertainty. For the most part, retailers and brands were grasping in the dark about what consumers really wanted out of their cannabis experiences. Since then, the industry has evolved to a point where cannabis companies have gathered troves of consumer data --the question now remains, what should be done with these valuable insights? This week, Ian Dominguez of Delta Emerald Ventures discusses how companies can successfully leverage data to drive transparency and consumer retention, and why investors and entrepreneurs alike should value granularity over industry-wide trends. In this conversation, Ian also examines the role that investors can play in driving positive change and facilitating social equity in the industry.

In the cannabis space, the key differentiator between legal and underground businesses is safety. Having rigorous testing standards is integral to building mainstream consumer trust and legitimizing the entire industry. In many states, cannabis safety standards are even more stringent than FDA agriculture guidelines, but more can be done to push the needle forward. In this episode, Antonio Frazier, President of CannaSafe, provides his perspective on how far the industry has come and how labs and cannabis businesses can work together to create a safer and more standardized sector.

Although the modern cannabis industry still faces its fair share of regulatory hurdles, the sector was rife with legal battles and largely lacked any infrastructure when the legalization movement first gained traction over a decade ago. Much of the industry’s legal framework and professionalization can be attributed to Bob Hoban, one of the most prolific lawyers in the space. His firm, Hoban Law Group, provides legal support to cannabis companies across the U.S. and has helped over 33 countries draft cannabis policies. In this episode, Bob discusses which parts of the industry still require more legal support, why companies should learn to embrace compliance, and how regulators and businesses alike can enact more effective social equity initiatives.

Like many investors in the cannabis industry, Phyto Partners Managing Partner Larry Schnurmacher left Wall Street at the beginning of the legalization movement after witnessing the innumerable opportunities that were available in this emerging market. In this episode, Larry discusses how his company’s solutions-driven approach to investing is mainstreaming cannabis, what industries and services will thrive in the industry’s new normal, and common pitfalls investors should be wary of to ensure long-term steady execution.

SPACs have emerged as one of the hottest investment trends this year in lucrative sectors including tech, media, and even the automotive industry. But what will this popular investing strategy mean for legal cannabis? Joe Crouthers, the Co-Founder and CEO of Ceres Group Holdings and Chairman and CEO of Ceres Acquisition Corp., one of the most visible cannabis SPACs in the industry, sheds light on how investors and business owners alike will benefit long-term from SPACs. In this conversation, Joe shares why he believes that the industry is uniquely positioned to engage with SPACs, how mainstream investors are reacting to this recent investing activity, and what it means to be a smart and helpful investor.

Public opinion about cannabis use has shifted considerably in the past decade. People from a variety of backgrounds are now enthusiastically embracing products that were once only deemed fitting for stoners. A large part of cannabis’ successful rebranding can be attributed to everyday consumers talking about how the plant has profoundly changed their lives. Cannabis consumption can be a deeply personal experience, and Tracy Brady, VP of Corporate Communications at Curaleaf believes that highlighting these unique and individual stories is the key to creating long-term customer relationships. In this episode, Tracy shares with us how her team encourages cannabis consumption with confidence, how she’s applied her mainstream marketing and media training to the emerging space, and addresses one of the most pressing questions in the industry: can big cannabis be good cannabis?

Guy Rocourt has been ahead of the curve by helping patients and consumers alike understand the healing properties of cannabis since the nineties. As the current Co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Papa & Barkley, the top-selling cannabis brand in California, he’s on a mission to encourage consumers and fellow industry leaders to embrace the most natural elements of the plant. This week, Guy shares why he believes companies should facilitate consumer trust and mainstream appeal by highlighting the plant’s natural flavor profiles, how cannabis companies can work together to help the industry mature, and why fighting for cannabis legalization is the most American thing he’s done in his life.

In recent years, legal cannabis has become one of the fastest-growing industries and job creators in this country. So, how did this previously unconventional industry start attracting mainstream talent and employing some of the most advanced tech-driven recruitment platforms? Karson Humiston, the Founder, and CEO of Vangst, started her recruiting firm early into the legalization movement and has witnessed the evolution of the industry’s hiring trends since the very beginning. She dives into how market demands have shaped recruiting practices, how she was able to attract funding from mainstream investors, and what she believes cannabis companies can do to specifically address social injustice.

Cannabis has emerged as one of the most salient health and wellness trends in recent years. CBD-infused beauty and wellness products are now widely available across the country, and plenty of consumers have been embracing their benefits. But how can companies differentiate their brand and engage with new audiences in this highly competitive market? This week, we speak to industry veteran Kimberly Dillon about bringing her mainstream CPG experience to cannabis, launching her CBD beauty brand, Frigg in the middle of a pandemic, and her top pieces of advice for young entrepreneurs that are eager to enter the space.

Only a few years ago, consumers had to navigate through a litany of foreign strain names and hope for the best experience. These days, consumers can easily find a wide variety of quality cannabis products that cater to their individual lifestyles and interests. Adrian Sedlin, the Founder and CEO of Canndescent, is largely credited with rebranding cannabis as a luxury lifestyle product and taking the guesswork out of the purchasing experience. Adrian discusses how he applied his Harvard Business School background to this emerging industry, why he believed luxury cannabis was an untapped market back in 2015, and how cannabis brands can maintain visibility in an increasingly competitive market.

In what feels like a blink of an eye, cannabis has gone from a highly taboo topic to the hottest product on the market being touted by celebrities including Martha Stewart and Kim Kardashian --but how exactly did we get here? This week, we speak to journalist Heather Cabot, author of The New Chardonnay: The Unlikely Story of How Marijuana Went Mainstream about why she decided to cover the proliferation of legal cannabis during the height of the legalization movement. In this conversation, Heather shares her insights on the mainstream appeal of cannabis, shifting consumer trends, steps the industry can take to bolster social equity, and the stories she wishes more reporters would cover in the cannabis space.

There was a time not too long ago when Canada was considered the safer route for risk-averse cannabis investors, but many are now pivoting their strategies to capitalize on the thriving U.S. market. Jason Wild, Founder of JW Asset Management and Chairman of TerrAscend shares his insights on the most promising future opportunities in the U.S., why his fund invested in plant-touching companies when other investors had their doubts, and how mainstream investors are beginning to embrace the industry.

This week we sit down with Alan Brochstein, Founder and CEO of New Cannabis Ventures and 420 Investor. Alan talks with us about making the shift from a career in finance as an Independent Analyst to focusing solely on cannabis investing, becoming the go-to guy to help investors navigate the market. Alan shares some challenges of launching into this industry early on and paving the way in the online community. We also talk with Alan about the main performance indicators that investors look for in a cannabis stock, common mistakes he sees investors make, and how we can include social equity and inclusivity more in our business.

Consumer and investor behaviors have changed drastically since the beginning of the legalization movement and are evolving even more rapidly during the pandemic. Emily Paxhia, Managing Director of Poseidon Asset Management discusses how investor priorities and strategies have shifted in recent years, the key qualities she looks for in founders, and how the industry is on track to enter into a more mature era post-COVID.

So you've got a stellar brand and want to attract media coverage. How do you pitch it to reporters? Veteran journalist Jonathan Small, editor in chief of Green Entrepreneur, provides his insight into the kinds of stories and pitches media outlets are hungry to cover in the world of cannabis.

Host Rosie Mattio offers an inside look into how leading entrepreneurs, executives, and journalists are bringing cannabis into the mainstream. Each unfiltered conversation covers the highs and lows of growing a business in this rapidly changing industry.