The Dime

SNDL is much bigger than most people realize — with global distribution, massive extraction capacity, and a diversified retail and manufacturing engine that touches nearly every part of the cannabis supply chain.

This week we sit down with Tyler Robson, President of SNDL, to break down:

• How SNDL became a global manufacturing and retail powerhouse
• Why extraction and derivatives are their true competitive edge
• How they operate across countries with completely different rules and product formats

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sundial and Tyler Robson

02:08 The Complexity of Extraction and Manufact...

Most operators think debt is dangerous. But what if the real problem is how we think about it?
The opposite is true: when used correctly, debt is the single biggest growth lever in cannabis. Every major industry scales on borrowed capital — cannabis is the only one still trying to do it alone.

This week we sit down with Adam Stettner to discuss:
• Why debt — used properly — compounds growth
• The difference between smart leverage and over-leverage
• How operators can fix cash-flow bottlenecks and scale predictably

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Adam Stettner and FundCann...

Everyone in cannabis talks about effects-based products — almost no one can deliver them consistently.

Repeatable experiences require precision and formulation discipline that looks a lot more like pharma than cannabis.

And here’s why: most operators don’t treat in-house analytics as essential. But that’s the mistake.

Process control isn’t optional — it’s the foundation for delivering the same experience every single time.

This week we sit down with Chris Emerson, Founder of LEVEL, to break down:
• How true effects-based products are actually built
• The analytics and standardization re...

Tobacco and alcohol are already laying the groundwork for cannabis — building IP, infrastructure, and data.

Nick Kenney breaks down what legacy industries already understand — how regulated markets are built, and why readiness always beats speed.

This week we sit down with Nick Kenny to discuss:
• How tobacco and alcohol are entering cannabis
• The playbook for building standardized, scalable systems
• Why predictability and timing will define the next wave of winners

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Cannabis Industry Journey

02:54 The Evolution of Cannabis Perception

06:02 Navigating Regulatory Challenges...

Before Target and DoorDash, Edible Arrangements joined the cannabinoid space.

Supply chains look a lot different when you can lean on national infrastructure, logistics, and distribution that already exist.

Through Edibles.com, the company is using that foundation to build access — curating top brands and letting customers shop the way they understand best: by experience.

Could this platform and distribution model become the Amazon of cannabinoids?

This week we sit down with Thomas Winstanley to discuss:

• The strategy and roadmap behind Edibles.com

• Balancing risk and regulation in an...

What happens when years of iteration, engineering, and a unique understanding of the plant align?
In cannabis, building hardware is walking a tightrope — precision, timing, and vision all matter.

Singular, the latest release from Active710, connects that entire loop.
While most will gravitate toward its sleek, modular design, the real story lies in how it solves major operational challenges — and unlocks a world of future opportunity.

This week, Alex Kwon joins The Dime to discuss:
• The major unlock behind Singular — and what makes it a platform, not a product
• How Active710 is leaning...

What happens when a Silicon Valley exec who helped Lyft rewrite the rules brings that same playbook to cannabis?

This week we sit down with Ashwin Raj, CEO of LeafLink, to break down how disciplined tech thinking and first-principle strategy can reshape a fragmented industry.

In this episode:
• How Lyft’s regulatory battles mirror cannabis today
• Why listening — not speed — builds trust and loyalty
• How data, discipline, and adaptability will drive the next era of cannabis tech

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ashwin Raj and LeafLink

02:02 Ashwin's Journey to the Canna...

Setbacks early on can reshape everything.
They can alter your future strategy, shift your appetite for risk, and — if you’re patient — quietly set you up for success while others chase growth at any cost.

As with any company, “figuring it out” is part of the job. And sometimes, that figuring it out happens faster than you’d ever hope.

The challenges you face early in your cannabis journey become the lens you see the world through — for better or worse. Those lessons, combined with the financial discipline from previous chapters of life, shape your decision...

Building something that lasts takes more than money — it takes self-belief, grit, and the willingness to keep pushing forward when easier options present themselves.

Putting your name on it only adds to the weight — and the responsibility — to make it work.

As with anything worth doing, there are difficult moments along the journey that demand a leap of faith.

If you want to be different, you have to be willing to swim against the current — to stand out long enough for customers to find their fit.

Daniel LaRusso was that choice for Chri...

California wants to ban hemp. Texas is protecting it. Spritz and Big Alcohol are lobbying to crush it.
The enemy of my enemy is my friend? Not in the cannabinoid space.

The hemp industry stands at a crossroads. With federal clarity still missing, states pulling in opposite directions, and Big Alcohol leaning on lawmakers, billions are at stake in hemp’s next chapter.

This week we sit down with Jim Higdon, Co-Founder of Cornbread Hemp, to unpack it all

If you were given some of the worst news in the world, wouldn’t you expect your doctors to use every tool available?

What if one of those tools could save millions of lives—and the science is already here?

The world’s largest medical cannabis and cancer study—10,000 papers, ranked in the top 5% globally—shows overwhelming evidence that cannabis has medical benefits. If fully embraced, its impact on patients and medicine could be transformative. As science continues to unfold, sometimes it takes skeptics to dive deep and uncover what’s truly there, even when powerful int...

Cannabis is chaotic by design. Vertical integration forces operators to run six or seven businesses at once — then replicate that model across states with different regulations, all without economies of scale. It’s no wonder the industry feels messy.

The bigger problem? Too many companies are chasing the wrong metrics and ignoring the lessons other industries already learned.

This week we sit down with Mitchell Osak — a veteran strategist across pharma, CPG, financial services, and cannabis — to unpack the hard truths and strategy lessons MSOs can’t afford to miss.

In this episode we cover:<...

THC is an ingredient.
Cannabinoids will be treated like standardized inputs across pharma, licensed cannabis, and hemp—and the future winners are hedging until there’s clarity.

What got you here won’t get you there. The next phase needs a new playbook: ops tweaks aren’t enough; strategy has to change.

Near term, expect Schedule III to unlock e-pharmacy distribution and centralized GMP manufacturing, while tobacco pushes device rules, alcohol shapes low-dose beverage norms, and hemp keeps expanding.

This chaotic industry is about to get even crazier.

This week we sit d...

$8 billion in products hit shelves each year with True Terpenes inside. The real edge? Turning sensory science—backed by data—into products that connect and fill clear gaps in the market.

We break down what cannabis can borrow from wine (shared language, guided discovery), where that analogy stops, and why toxicology and standards are the new trust layer.
Plus: how to transform the consumer experience, educate at scale, and move beyond THC% and indica/sativa as guideposts—especially as regions and genetics evolve.

This week we sit down with Dan Cook, CEO of True Terpen...

What if keeping the room a little too dry is killing your plants?
Humidity—and the HVAC that controls it—drives plant health, but air isn’t uniform across the room. The fix isn’t more AC; it’s dialing VPD so humidity, lights, airflow, and irrigation work together. Get it wrong and you lose yield and fail tests; get it right and buds stay sticky, healthy, and consistent.

This week we sit down with Dr. Greenhouse (aka Nadia Sabeh) to discuss:

What if the smartest growth move is cutting—on purpose?

Turnarounds aren’t financial stories—they’re operational ones.

Growth-at-all-costs is out. The new playbook: prune non-core assets, concentrate resources in high-return states, and speed the path from cultivation to checkout.

This week we sit down with Richie Proud, CEO of iAnthus, to discuss:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to IANTHUS and Richi...

Most cannabis facilities fail before the first wall goes up.
Most assume it’s because of money — but they’re wrong.
It’s because no one asked the right questions.

The question you need to ask now is:
Where should we be looking to set ourselves up for long-term success?

Asking the right questions is critical — because decisions made for today can become death warrants tomorrow. Knowing where to look (and what to avoid) can be a game-changer.

This week, we sit down with David Fettner, Managing Partner at Grow America Bu...

Every investment is just an ROI calculator.

Automation feels risky—until you run the numbers.

It doesn’t kill craftsmanship—it scales it.

Growing your pre-roll category usually means balancing sales growth with hand-filling teams to maintain quality.

But what if you could do both?

What if you could leverage best-in-class automation to hit your numbers faster, cleaner, cheaper—without sacrificing quality?

The truth?

You don’t need 30 people rolling joints when 3 people and a machine can do it better.

This week, we sit down w...

What’s the real goal of a legal cannabis market?
If it’s to replace the illicit market, create safe access, and drive tax revenue—then why is California, the world’s 4th largest economy, failing while Michigan is thriving?

Despite California’s size and cultural dominance, cannabis sales are shrinking, cities are refusing to opt in, and the illicit market is flourishing.
Meanwhile, Michigan is seeing record growth, robust retail access, and real tax benefits flowing back to local communities.

So—who’s to blame?
Is it the regulators? The lawmakers? The businesses...

Debt is coming due — and we’re approaching a point of no return.
At this stage, it’s not if there will be fallout — it’s who survives it.

The surface-level view of the cannabis industry hides deep financial issues that only become clear when you dig into the numbers. And that’s exactly what Matt Karnes has been doing for years. From cash flow strain to 280E pressures and mounting debt, the industry is heading toward a critical reset.

This week on The Dime, we sit down with Matt Karnes, founder of GreenWave Advisors, to...

Built to last.
That’s not just a slogan — it’s a strategy.

In an industry driven by short-term survival, the cannabis space often feels like a rollercoaster. Financial pressures and market volatility push companies to chase quarters instead of building moats.

But what if you could play the long game?
What if you could invest in domain knowledge, develop key expertise, and build durable competitive advantages across the supply chain?

Organigram is doing exactly that.

With financial backing from British American Tobacco (BAT), Organigram is executing a strategy rooted...

What if buying cannabis felt more like a Michelin-star dining experience than a traditional retail transaction?

Where the staff doesn’t just sell—they guide, educate, and tailor every recommendation to how you want to feel.

No guessing. Just clarity, confidence, and trust—rooted in science-backed evidence.

That’s the vision behind Ethos Cannabis.

When customers are willing to drive past other dispensaries for a meticulous, hospitality-driven, science-based experience, it’s not just working—it’s spreading. Organically. Word of mouth.

This week, we sit down with Gibran Washington, CEO of Ethos...

AI is reshaping every corner of commerce — and in cannabis, where the pace is chaotic and change can be difficult, thoughtful integration is even harder.

We’re in the middle of a digital transformation as profound as the rise of the internet. In a space where “speed and size” used to win, the new game is endurance. Because to finish first, you have to finish.

Balancing AI rollouts, sunsetting products with sunk costs, and staying mission-aligned while pushing innovation forward — that’s the razor-thin line companies like Jane walk every day.

This week, we sit down...

Prohibition is dead — and Texas just proved it.
The recent SB3 vote signaled the start of something much bigger.

While hemp and cannabis operate in very different styles, both are ultimately pushing toward the same goal: a sensible framework for a one-plant solution.

The how? I’ll leave that to people way smarter than me.
But the genie is NOT going back in the bottle — and while speed and clarity aren’t often associated with Congress, we might see that sentence written sooner than expected.

This week, we sit down with Jim Higd...

The cannabis shakeout isn’t coming. It’s already here.
Operators are bleeding, investors are disappearing, and the old playbook is falling apart. After Benzinga, one thing’s clear: the winners will be the ones who specialize, control every cost, and have visibility into every part of their business in real time.

What happens when you pull back the curtain on the cannabis industry’s most influential event of the year?

In this episode, we go back to our roots—just the two of us—breaking down what we saw, heard, and felt at the Benzinga...

What if the most powerful investor pitch wasn’t a deck or a breakdown of earnings—but a story?

Now, the idea of seeds in the ground to thriving plants is a tangible experience—one that finally captures the real narrative. Because in cannabis, the financials don’t always tell the full story.

This week, we sit down with Jesse Redmond, Head of Investor Relations and Business Development at LEEF Brands, to explore:

Most cannabis operators are reactive—drowning in checklists, flooded with data, and still missing the point.

Compliance gets all the attention, while real operational signals—like handling variability and shifting process conditions—lead to execution gaps and reactive decision-making.

Extraction process optimization is tricky, but when the actual root cause is identified and solved, the returns can be astronomical—and compounding.

The challenge? Aligning teams around meaningful data, not just required data.

The unlock? It’s not about overhauling everything—it’s about starting small, watching closely, and making the process stronger one s...

What if we told you the future of cannabis looks less like dispensaries... and more like the milk aisle?

Everyone’s chasing growth, market share, and the next hot product — but few are asking the deeper question:

What will the cannabis industry actually become?

While cannabis is certainly disruptive, its future likely follows a few predictable paths — built on established infrastructure where companies must choose: go big, go niche, or get squeezed out.

This week we sit down with Brett Puffenbarger, founder of Good Highdeas, for an unfiltered look into where cannab...

There’s no exits. There’s no cash. There’s no buyers. So what do you do? Batten down the hatches. Crush your market. Squeeze out the little guys who can’t compete — and wait.

This week, Seth Yakatan returns to discuss the following:

• How he’s seeing the board
• Why cannabis can’t hit reset like other industries
• What operators need to do right now to survive

Chapters

00:00 The Resilience of the Cannabis Industry

02:04 Challenges in Cannabis: Capital, Playbook, and Regulation

04:49 Strategies for Success: Focusing on Core Mar...

"Cash strapped" might be the most heard phrase in the cannabis industry right now.
So… where’s the cash?

Without disciplined forecasting and visibility into true costs, growth is meaningless. Most companies aren’t failing from bad ideas — they’re failing in execution. That’s where cash leaks into missed forecasts, bloated inventory, and lost opportunity.

Cash flow isn’t a quarterly metric — it has to be a daily focus.

The ones with visibility are growing profitably and setting themselves up to survive now and thrive later.

This week we sit down with Ty...

Florida and New York are massive markets — but they’re still early. Everyone’s fighting for attention, trust, and long-term positioning.
So how did The Flowery rise to the top and become the go-to partner for the industry’s premier brands?

710 Labs. Wizard Trees. Preferred Gardens. Doja Pak the list goes on.
These brands are some of the most sought-after names in the entire cannabis industry.
They drive traffic into the store, signal trust with customers, and are built on quality and brand recognition.

This week we sit down with Ilya Shmidt, of The F...

Big Tobacco knows cigarettes are dead.
They’re sitting on cash, looking for growth — and cannabis is the obvious move.

They’re no longer silently watching from the sidelines. They’re investing, expanding — some through public acquisitions, others through quieter plays. But one thing is clear: it’s no secret anymore. Big Tobacco is here, leveraging its resources to capture market share quickly, while cannabis companies continue to struggle.

And on the other side of the coin? The global unlock continues.
With U.S. operators mostly stuck within national borders, Canadian companies are finally gett...

Specialization is coming — and surviving will mean doing one thing better than anyone else.

But that’s only the beginning. Getting there takes a relentless growth mindset: an obsession with stacking small operational wins — data, tech, genetics, process — to create massive separation over time.

Extraction isn’t simple. And in a world of margin compression, “this is how we’ve always done it” won’t cut it.

Micah shares how applying best-in-class manufacturing principles has helped LEEF reach elite levels of efficiency — and how just a 1–2% gain in yield can unlock millions in  value. He also shares h...

You produced the product.
They said they needed terms — “as soon as it sells, we’ll pay.”
But the days kept going by… and nothing came in.

In cannabis, collections are brutally difficult. With limited banking and tight cash flow, cash is king. So how do you know who’s trustworthy? Who’s a repeat offender? And where do you even go to collect?

Sadly, this scenario is far too common — and it’s crushing the industry.

This week we sit down with Brett Gelfand, founder of CannaBIZ Collects and the Cannabis Credit As...

It’s not about planting flags anymore. It’s about profitability.

As the cannabis industry shifts from rapid growth at all costs to operational precision, hard decisions are being made.

Which assets are sized properly? Where can we build a well-rounded, potentially profitable business given the realities of today’s market? 

And how do we make the right calls for our teams while positioning for the world we’re actually in—not the one we hoped for?

Ayr Wellness is deep into this approach, actively sizing its business for today’s environment<...

While it feels like progress isn’t happening — and that may be true at the federal level — inside the industry, it’s a completely different story.
The financial model you built, the regulatory category you operate in, the market dynamics, the consumer behavior — every one of those variables is in motion. Constantly evolving. And new competitors are entering, disrupting your playbook from every angle.

Reality is, the shakeout isn’t ending anytime soon. This industry is not for the faint of heart.

The one thing that doesn’t lie? Data.
Ground yourself in it. Use it to...

Can cannabis be the key to lowering healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes?

Impossible, right?

Think again.

Leafwell has analyzed millions of data points and uncovered staggering, undeniable results—cannabis patients experience fewer ER visits, reduced prescription drug use, and better health outcomes compared to non-users. These findings aren’t just groundbreaking—they’re a wake-up call.

This is just the beginning of unlocking the true potential of plant medicine, and with further research, education, and access, millions more could benefit.

This week, we sit down with Emily Fisher & Dr. June...

“It’s this crazy melody of things constantly happening, and you need an incredible degree of grit and fortitude. Even the best-prepared individuals with meticulous plans have to throw them up in the air like confetti. It’s an intangible feeling—until you get into it, you really don’t know.”

This quote from Christina Betancourt Johnson perfectly captures the cannabis industry—where relentless highs and lows force constant adaptation. The question is: are we just treading water, or pushing forward to something greater?

This week, we sit down with Christina Betancourt Johnson, CEO of Standard Welln...

Want to know what a company really values? Look at where they spend their money.

In cannabis, where cash is a rare commodity, Jetty Extracts is choosing to invest in:

Most companies can’t even consider this level of investment. Jetty does it because they’ve spent over a decade building a brand on quality.

As the industry shifts toward clean products, organic certification, and transparency, Jetty is making a conscious choice to lead, not fo...

Cannabis started as a movement, not just a business. But as legalization expanded, the industry found itself caught between profit and purpose, struggling under massive overregulation and taxation. So how do we get back on track?

For over 11 years, Luna Stower has been on the front lines—fighting for safe access, patient rights, and the end of prohibition. While many have lost steam, her relentless passion and advocacy have never wavered. She has worked to bridge the gap between activism and industry, ensuring that cannabis remains accessible, ethical, and true to its roots.

This week, we...

Vaping is more than just oil and hardware—it’s a delicate balance of oil, terpenes, device performance, and supply chain efficiency. When one element is off, consumers notice, and brands suffer.

With new tariffs on China and CCELL  massive  U.S. investment, what does this mean for the future of the vape industry? How do hardware vendors differentiate themselves while ensuring brands thrive? And can a nine-figure R&D budget redefine the vaping experience?

This week, we sit down with Nick Kovacevich, Corporate Relations Director at CCELL, to explore:

Consumer buy brands. And in cannabis, California brands reign supreme because they uphold the most sacred element in any relationship—trust.

Trust isn’t just about marketing—it’s about consistency, quality, and experience. The moment a brand breaks that trust, it loses everything. But expanding a highly trusted California brand into new markets isn’t just about slapping a logo on a jar—it’s about ensuring the same elite quality, cultivation standards, and consumer experience across state lines.

So how do you scale a collective of powerhouse cannabis brands while maintaining the trust that made them...

"Bureaucracy defends the status quo long past the time when the quo has lost its status."
— Laurence J. Peter

Nowhere is that more evident than in cannabis, where local governments resist change, operators scramble for clarity, and policies shift overnight. The biggest mistake cannabis operators make? Waiting too long to ask for help.

Navigating cannabis regulations isn’t just about compliance—it’s a high-stakes game of politics, timing, and strategy. This week, we sit down with Jeff Guillot, Managing Partner of MAD Global Strategy, to expose the backroom battles.

Are you considering expanding to Germany? The answer should be yes.

As a brand or retailer, deciding where to grow is critical. California is the ultimate proving ground—fiercely competitive and filled with industry leaders. If you want to be a national player, is this where you make your mark?

But what about Germany? A high-potential market, still in its early stages, with adult-use legalization on the horizon. The demand for U.S. brands is clear, but how will regulations unfold, and what hurdles lie ahead?

This week, we sit down with Jamie Pe...

Everyone can agree—cannabis operates in a legal gray area. 

For starters, anyone in the industry is technically breaking federal law, as cannabis remains federally illegal. 

But for an in-house attorney at an MSO, the job isn’t just about navigating federal risk.

 It’s about understanding where gray meets red, balancing state-by-state regulations, and ensuring compliance across an industry with ever-changing rules—especially for a publicly traded company.

This week, we sit down with Dan Shapiro, EVP of Ascend Wellness, to break down:

Standard Operating Procedures—every company has them. But how do you maintain consistency when a single change can ripple across 14 states, 15 cultivation sites, and 150 retail locations?

Verano faces the challenge of creating continuity across a vast and diverse footprint. Each state presents unique regulations and operational nuances, yet the expectation for repeatability in product quality and customer experience remains unwavering.

Balancing automation, efficiency, and quality isn’t just a logistical feat—it’s a deliberate strategy rooted in precision and innovation. 

As Ray Dalio says, “Make sure everyone is in the right seat on the bus...

Cake is hitting different. A hockey stick chart is every founder's dream—but what looks like overnight success often hides expertise built years behind the scenes.

Thriving in California's intense, competitive cannabis market? That’s a different beast altogether.

Pink, chrome, fur—Cake's branding immediately resonates with its target audience. A masterclass in brand authenticity.

This week, we sit down with Chloe Kaleiokalani to discuss the following:

...

Why does it feel like the hemp industry is exploding while regulated cannabis remains stagnant?

The numbers may tell one story, but they don’t capture the whole picture.

 What would a combined cannabis and hemp market look like if both operated with fewer restrictions, better access to resources, and increased capital?

This week, we welcome back Ben Burstein to dive into these critical questions and more, including:

F1 hybrid seeds are the cornerstone of modern agriculture, offering the least expensive and most reliable way to grow uniform plants with predictable traits.

In the cannabis industry, however, growing from clones has long been the standard because true F1 hybrid seeds were unavailable—until now.

Today, F1 hybrid seeds have arrived in cannabis cultivation, delivering the same consumer and agronomic traits that make large-scale production in traditional agriculture so successful. 

These seeds are not only transforming the economics of cannabis cultivation but also turning pain points into competitive advantages for forward-thinking growers.

Partnerships are more critical in cannabis than in many other industries. 

The line between success and failure is razor-thin, and most companies don’t have the resources to recover from a failed “marriage.”

One of the unique and beautiful challenges of the cannabis industry is the emotional connection founders have with their businesses. Much like a parent’s love for a child, founders tend to see only the good, often downplaying potential downsides.

The ability to stay grounded, ask the hard questions, and—most importantly—be culturally and mentally prepared to discuss a “marriage” with...

Software is unique: when it works as it should, no one thinks twice about it. But the moment there’s a hiccup or delay, it becomes an issue.

Building software that consistently runs seamlessly, while integrating additional features to create an “all-in-one” solution that’s easy to use? That’s nearly impossible.

Kudos to Chris Violas and the Blaze team for achieving just that. Leveraging his AWS background, Chris has created a software environment that boasts an impressive 99.1% customer satisfaction score.

The infrastructure may not be the sexiest part of software, but it’s the founda...

Kiva's products now reach 80% of the U.S. population.

Think about that for a second.

It’s a testament to how far the cannabis industry has come and the progress being made. 

But, as with anything in the cannabis space, there are complexities, caveats, and unique challenges.

For instance, in some markets, consumers can access products directly through D2C channels or dispensaries. While these channels can complement each other and drive brand loyalty, the rise of D2C may also create tension with retailers, who were once the sole point of...

Sometimes, you need to go the extra mile to make a point—like buying every medicine at CVS to show regulators that medicine can, and often does, have flavor.

 Sensible regulations should be rooted in logic, not outdated prohibition fears or baseless stigmas.

 If cannabis is legalized, it should be treated like any other industry, not one plagued by fear of being a shadowy boogeyman.

This week, we sit down with Wendy Bronfein to dive into:

How many of you know that the post-harvest process is just as critical—or even more so—than cultivation for preserving terpenes and cannabinoids?

While cultivation is often in the spotlight, the post-harvest process is essential to maintaining quality in cannabis. This week on The Dime, we sit down with Jack Grover, co-founder of Grove Bags, to explore how post-harvest techniques can make or break the final product.

Jack explains the importance of managing terpenes, moisture levels, and environmental conditions to keep cannabis potent and aromatic long after harvest. Discover how Terploc technology and thoughtful post...

Clones, tissue culture, gen-zero cloning—cultivation science dictates both the health, effects, and financial return on each cannabis plant. This week, we’re diving deep to understand how these techniques work and why they’re game-changers for the cannabis industry.

We sit down with Kristian Andreassen from Conception Nurseries to explore:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/conceptionnurseries/

https://conceptionnurseries.com/

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Main Topics Discussed:

With over 100 million visits a year, 1.3 million product reviews, and millions of orders, Leafly stands at the unique crossroads of cannabis consumers, brands, and retailers. Navigating the diverse challenges across states, highlighting brand leaders, and adapting to shifting consumer needs, Leafly’s content flywheel isn’t just powerful—it’s predictive. By harnessing insights from every digital interaction, Leafly crafts timely, relevant content that educates consumers at every stage of their journey.

This week, we sit down with Leafly CEO Yoko Miyashita to discuss:

"Diplomacy is the art of letting someone else have your way." — Daniele Vare

Are we underestimating the role cannabis could play in shaping global influence? 

U.S. brands have historically had global appeal, but could cannabis open the door to new trade opportunities and strategic value on an international scale? 

Who will lead these global negotiations when the U.S. is still struggling with a state-by-state approach?

Can state-level influence accelerate global change, and what would the timeline for such a shift look like?

This week, we sit down with...

Humbling… How many times have we thought catalysts were on the way, only to find out at the last minute it was just a pawn or a negotiation tactic?

The question remains for optimists like myself: Is the thesis still intact? Yes, but the timing was off. A hard lesson learned—never count on DC for simple, sound decisions on a reasonable timeline.

Let’s revisit the thesis.

Gone are the days of unicorns, but we’re now in a phase where challenges persist, and change could come quickly. Optimist Bryan is still holding...

Imagine this...... The sun is shining, you’re lounging on a beautiful beach in Thailand with your partner. 

The kids are with their grandparents when a friendly resort worker approaches with a smile and offers you an edible.

Sounds like a dream of mine, or maybe just another social media fantasy, right? 

Nope, this is reality in 2024.

Kanha is revolutionizing plant medicine with a global perspective, making cannabis edibles an experience to be enjoyed across the world.

This week, we sit down with Cameron Clarke to dive into:

Hemp beverages have exploded over the last 24 months, and they are likely the tip of the spear for broader cannabis reform, helping to normalize cannabis through a familiar form factor.

The opportunity to produce hemp-based products in a single facility and distribute them across state lines offers benefits throughout the supply chain, providing consumers with more cost-effective products—much like how global giants like Coca-Cola operate. However, the rules governing this are still very grey.

In contrast, regulated markets require brands like Keef to establish individual operations in each state, leading to massive capital expenditures an...

What is Bank Secrecy, and why are cash-heavy businesses like cannabis dispensaries, casinos, and laundromats treated the same?

Did regulators understand that they forced cannabis businesses were once forced into "criminal" banking practices?

Banking is available to the cannabis industry, but what are the differences?

We discuss the complexities of navigating federal and state regulations, the impact of the SAFE(R) Banking Act, and the differences between state-chartered and federally-chartered banks in handling cannabis-related transactions. Sundie also discusses the challenges of credit card processing for cannabis businesses and the emerging issues around hemp...

Connected is one of the most influential cannabis brands in the world, renowned for its best-in-class genetics and highest-quality flower. But it's their unmatched R&D, breeding program, and bold appetite for pushing boundaries that truly set them apart.

To understand how Connected became the powerhouse it is today, we delve into the origins of its journey, including the story behind the naming of Biscotti. In this episode, Caleb Counts breaks down how much Connected invests in R&D and offers an inside look into their renowned breeding program. He shares insights on how decisions are made...

Is Cannabis the most overlooked treatment in modern healthcare?

 Learn how it could revolutionize care for cancer and other illnesses.

In this episode of The Dime, Dr. Benjamin Caplan, founder of CED Clinic and author of the "Doctor Approved Cannabis Handbook," joins us to discuss the untapped potential of Cannabis in medicine. From his journey as a traditional primary care doctor to becoming a leader in cannabis healthcare, Dr. Caplan dives deep into the science behind cannabis' therapeutic effects on conditions like cancer, Parkinson's, and even dementia. He challenges the misconceptions around Cannabis, discusses its i...

Flavors, terpenes, and genetics—all essential components of an incredible cannabis product. But how do you achieve this while running a vertically integrated business with volatile wholesale prices? 

That’s the beauty of the cannabis industry: you're building the plane while flying it.

In this episode, the founders of Trade Roots reveal the secrets behind their exceptional strains and flavors. 

Discover how they've mastered the art of transitioning from legacy to legal cannabis cultivation, integrating West Coast genetics with cutting-edge techniques. They also discuss how vertical integration gives them a unique edge in delive...

Growing cannabis is like navigating a path in many directions.

Are you cultivating for smokable flowers or extract?

How do you take a skill once passed down from person to person and translate that into high-end cultivation practices that can be standardized across employees or even scaled across companies?

These skills demand a unique blend of rigorous science and an intuitive "feel" that's hard to quantify.

This Week We Sit Down with Travis Higginbotham to Discuss the Following:

Cresco Labs is one of the largest MSOs in the industry, but at its core, it has an entrepreneurial mindset that has always stayed the same.

Many overlook that a company with a sizable market cap can still possess the craftiness and perspective of a smaller company. This mindset has led to strategic opportunities that allow Cresco Labs to thrive in areas easily overlooked by its peers.

This week, we sit down with Zach Marburger to discuss:

Kentucky is now hot on the radar as a prime location for medical cannabis opportunities. As the application window dwindles, we take a detailed look at the potential and challenges within the state's medical market.

In this episode, we explore the intricate process of applying for cannabis licenses in Kentucky. Learn what you need to do to be successful, whether you're a mom-and-pop shop or a larger enterprise. Discover the necessary steps, strategies for success, and how to position yourself for the best chances of obtaining a license in this competitive field. Understand the opportunities, potential, and...

Cannabis reform always feels like it's on the verge of a breakthrough with policy.

We know some policies can pass both the House & Senate yet it doesn’t , but it ends up feeling like a pawn in the horse trading by policymakers who all know that ~70% of Americans are in favor of cannabis legalization. So why does policy that has support from both sides of the aisle struggle to make progress?

This week, we sit down with Erin Moffet and David Mangone to discuss:

Successful marketing requires a blend of specialized expertise and a broad understanding of strategic frameworks. However, too often, marketing gets pigeonholed into a single person's role, expecting them to handle everything from strategy to execution.

In fast-paced, scaling startups, this is precisely where fractional marketers can make a critical difference. Leveraging a team of skilled, experienced individuals to handle various marketing roles can support your marketing team more effectively, saving time and costs.

This week, we sit down with Brandon Bobart to discuss the following:

"Every time a company doubles in size, you need to redo all processes." – Reid Hoffman, founder of LinkedIn.

The speed and development of the cannabis industry often conflict with the ability to take a step back and recognize the internal organizational changes that have occurred since the last time you aligned your structure.

Are your total compensation packages, timing, and organizational structure retaining and attracting employees?

Can slight improvements outside of just pay provide a massive boost to your team?

Enter Mike Siebold of FlowerHire. Having an experienced industry partner review yo...

Cannabis sentiment is not positive enough. 

Given the challenges and fatigue, it's easy to lose sight of what's happening.

Cannabis is being built from the ground up. Regulations and capital may currently hinder some aspects, but what's happening in the industry is undeniable.

This week, we sit down with Ben Burstein, who reveals the actual situation in cannabis, focusing solely on information that tells the story through data.

We discuss the following:

Guest Links:

Tradeshows are a universal way of connecting with others in a similar industry for a unified reason. However, as costs rise, the value of attending these events is weighed against other efforts. Success at these events varies per individual, adding to the challenges.

Rama Mayo and the team at Hall of Flowers already have a must-attend event. This year, they are elevating it even further by deepening the value for exhibitors and attendees, connecting them directly with superfans in a magical experience.

This week, we sit down with Rama Mayo to discuss the following:

While many have found cannabis to be helpful for sleep, is it anecdotal, or is there science to back up these feelings?

 In the US, 50 to 70 million adults have chronic sleep problems or sleep disorders, according to SleepHealth.org.

FloraWorks set out to validate these claims through double-blind placebo trials, employing the rigorous standards used in pharmaceutical research. These trials aim to provide scientific evidence to support the efficacy of cannabis-derived compounds, such as CBN, in improving sleep.

This week, we sit down with Alleh Lindquist to discuss the following:

The lack of guidance from the US Federal Government on the cannabinoid industry poses significant challenges for those involved in the sector. The absence of clear regulations and leadership complicates business operations.

In contrast, European countries are both legalizing cannabis and planning further legalization. They are keen to avoid the mistakes made by many US states and are learning from past failures.

This week, we sit down with Boris Jordan to discuss

Creating a powerful and emotionally resonant message is essential in the cannabis industry, where many people have unique and personal connections to the plant. Crafting a message that genuinely resonates can yield compounding results. Although PR and marketing often get grouped together, they require distinct strategies to complement each other effectively.

This week, we sit down with Jordan Isenstadt to delve into:

About Jordan Isenstadt

As a Senior Vice President at Marino, I lead strategic communications and public...

What does your business do better than anyone else's?  

This is your competitive advantage.

As we move away from the "growth at all costs" mindset, businesses are doubling down on their strengths—Grown Rogue has emphatically done just that. Battle-tested in highly competitive markets, this high-end cultivator consistently proves its ability to design cultivation operations that produce high-quality flower at consistent prices. With a repeatable, profitability-focused model, they are now expanding to new markets like New Jersey and Illinois to disrupt the flower market.

This week, we sit down with Obie Strickler to dis...

New York's Cannabis Program can only be described one way: Broken. 

Despite lessons learned from other states and a goal to help those previously harmed, the program has faced significant financial and operational challenges, falling short of its intended success. With government officials labeling the rollout a disaster and promising an overhaul, the extent of the program's issues is clear. Were these problems evident from the start, and how can they be fixed? We sat down with Neil Kaufman to break it all down and discuss the following:

Public companies dominate the headlines for the cannabis industry, but a few private beasts operate in plain sight. Motif Labs is one of them. Their deep focus on profitability and data at every step is why they have built such a deeply rooted and successful organizational philosophy.

This week, we sit down with Mario Naric to discuss:

Mario Naric, CEO & Founder of Motif Labs

Mario Naric is the Founder & CEO of Motif Labs, a leading brand...

Pricing and promotion in the retail business may seem closely linked but are fundamentally different. Understanding the intention behind a promotion across the organization is a critical yet often overlooked element in the cannabis industry. Using pricing as a tool to drive sales can have unintended consequences. 

For example, if a customer typically purchases one product every 30 days but buys two products when offered at a lower price, they might not return for 60 days.

 Did leveraging the price as a tool for additional sales work as intended?

This week, we dive into the intricacies o...

Synthesis, a process that may sound complex, is actually quite common in our daily lives. From the production of everyday items like Advil, organic milk, citric acid, to the creation of vitamins A and D, and multivitamins, synthesis is a key player.

Why does this realization often provoke a negative reaction? 

Perhaps it's because there's a desire for clean, safe, and consistent natural products, especially when they originate from plants.

Surprisingly, synthesis enhances our ability to deliver such products.

This week, we're joined by Shane Johnson to delve into the following topics: <...

The economic impact of Hop Latent Viroid on cannabis cultivation remains a significant concern, costing the industry millions annually.

In our latest episode, we dive into proactive measures to combat this threat with Dr. Tassa Saldi.

 Affecting ~80% of cultivators, Dr. Saldi sheds light on the necessity of proactively testing.

While some may question the need for proactive testing, likening it to insurance, the truth is stark: overlooking this crucial step could result in catastrophic consequences for your crops and business.

Join us as we explore:

BRĒZ immediate success is a testament to the power of a skilled team, a great product, and incredible marketing. A little over a year since its inception, BRĒZ hockey stick trajectory is undeniable and worthy of emulation.

When executed perfectly, marketing becomes more than just a line item on a P&L; it becomes a tool with unlimited potential. BRĒZ ability to connect with consumers on a personal level and address all hidden potential questions and concerns reflects textbook marketing prowess that would earn the approval of industry legends like Gary Albert or David Ogilv...

The use of psychedelics by high-performing individuals and entrepreneurs is on the rise as they openly discuss the benefits these substances offer.

As research continues and we dive deeper into these advantages, questions arise: Where are the opportunities, and what should interested individuals know? How do they get started, and how do they find the proper protocol for their needs?

This week, we sit down with Paul F. Austin to explore:

The 2018 Farm Bill has undeniably reshaped the cannabis industry, blurring lines and unlocking opportunities between hemp and cannabis. This episode delves into the nuanced differences and similarities between these two facets of the cannabis world. Chris Fontes shares his insights to dissect the complex web of legislation, the evolving roles of MSOs and Big Pharma, and the boundless opportunities emerging from regulatory challenges. Discover how today's cannabis entrepreneurs are utilizing the interpretation of opportunities to transform obstacles into avenues for innovation and sector growth.

This week, we sit down with Chris Fontes to discuss the following:

Capital in the cannabis industry is not just scarce; it's a puzzle. 

Have you come across terms like sale-leaseback and triple net lease in press releases and earnings reports yet find yourself questioning their actual mechanics? 

What's more, the implications for companies opting for these leasebacks might be more surprising than you think. 

And from the perspective of a REIT company, how do they pinpoint opportunities, especially when evaluating location and market potential? 

These insights are valuable for understanding the framework for decision-making, both short and long-term.

This week, we s...

Major industry behemoths like P&G or British Tobacco are setting their sights on the cannabis industry, poised to disrupt and seamlessly integrate.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, are you engaging in crucial internal and external conversations in anticipation of the next wave?

This week, we sit down with Seth Yakatan to discuss the following:

Guest Links

Katan Associates International | Corporate S...

Amidst the breaking down the walls of prohibition, it's clear that change is underway. The speed at which the cannabis industry is evolving is hard to truly grasp unless you step back and appreciate how much has altered in the last 10 years compared to the previous 100.

While issues and unknowns persist, incremental progress with accelerated catalysts is gaining momentum, making one thing extremely clear:

The genie is unlikely to go back into the bottle.

This week, we sit down to reflect on the past with an understanding of what lies ahead.  

T...

"Great companies were never built by conservative leaders.

Great companies were built by risk-takers."

Deeply ingrained in Curaleaf's DNA is the ability to navigate the unknown ahead of opportunities.

Timing these events is nearly impossible, but having the foresight and strategic resources in place when the opportunity strikes can change the game.

For visionaries like Boris Jordan, being early in markets like Germany can be challenging for everyone to see until recent developments materialize.

The US and European cannabis markets operate very differently, and Curaleaf is in a prime...

Investing in cannabis stocks is not for the faint of heart. It's common to see these stocks pop only to retrace their gains quickly.

Understanding the implications and the strategies that institutional investors will use as they enter the sector, currently dominated by retail, could be a generational difference-maker for so many.

This week, we speak with Pablo Zuanic to discuss the following:

About Pablo  Zuanic 

Pablo Zuanic is a well-known and highly rated consumer sector equity analyst, most re...

Companies obsessed with solving specific pain points always win.

The cannabis industry, with its unique challenges, demands tailor-made software solutions.

Software that guides critical decisions forms the company's foundational backbone.

 An unwavering dedication to profoundly understanding customer challenges and the agility to create nimble, value-focused software solutions is indispensable and poised to disrupt any incumbent.

This week, we sit down with Rick Bashkoff to discuss:

Creating trust is foundational in authentic brand development.

The transition from content creator visibility to tangible product offerings has become a pivotal strategy among leading global brands. The success stories of Mr. Beast's Feastables and Logan Paul & KSI's Prime underscore the significance of integrating your brand's identity into every aspect of your product. This approach ensures meticulous packaging and thoughtful design, essential for cultivating a captivating customer experience.

 House of Puff has recently unveiled its first adult-use product, marking a pivotal moment in their journey.

This week, we connect with the masterminds behind H...

Operating since 2011 comes with an enormous amount of experience and scars.

Navigating the turbulence and keeping an eye on what's essential while scaling your organization is no small feat.

Identifying new hidden revenue opportunities is the first challenge, but capitalizing on those opportunities, given the plethora of cannabis challenges, is an entirely different beast.

This week, we sit down with Gabe Mendoza, EVP of Revenue for 4Front Ventures, to discuss the following:

About 4Front ventures 

E...

Trulieve stands at the brink of what may be a golden swan event.

With rescheduling likely "imminent" and recent remarks from Gov. DeSantis suggesting that adult use appearing on Florida ballots could set ablaze an unparalleled opportunity.

"It really will change the structure of the business," and "We have the largest catalyst; I think that has ever happened to a single company in this space ahead of us, along with everything else everyone else has," underscore the magnitude of these catalysts.

With Florida poised to be an industry game-changer, Trulieve's expansive footprint and...

Cookies is the most well-known and prominent cannabis brand. Berner's story and his rise in the cannabis industry are well documented, but it's his authentic approach that has given life to Cookies, propelling it to global fame. Despite the challenges and constraints in the cannabis industry, the brand's growing global popularity is a testament to his vision & impact.

Brands like Cookies transcend beyond being mere symbols. They become universal icons that resonate globally, embodying a story and culture that connect with diverse audiences across generations and cultures. This global resonance is a clear indicator of successful marketing.<...

The NY CAURD program, intended to be a beacon of hope, turned into a myriad of challenges.

Imagine relocating your family, investing your life savings, and building a dream, only to be met with a staggering injunction that brings the entire NY cannabis market to a halt. With countless unknowns, frequent regulatory changes, and surprises such as the NY cannabis tax, many entrepreneurs aspiring to enter the NY cannabis industry faced a daunting initiation that only the mentally strong could weather.

In this episode, we delve into the heart of these challenges with Markel Bababekov...

Cannabis rescheduling is likely imminent

What needs to happen for cannabis to be successful rescheduled?

Who are the key players involved, and what should the industry be doing to prepare for what will likely be strong opposition

Understanding the inner workings of the DEA, HHS, and other involved parties is crucial in this complex scenario.

As  '½ of the On Drugs' substack and one of the most influential leaders advocating for reform, Shane Pennington brings invaluable insights to this conversation.

In this episode, we sit down with Shane Pennington to...

Big Alcohol knows the writing is on the wall. 

Cannabis consumption is growing, and Alcohol is shrinking. 

"We believe that over the next 5 years, the cannabis category will add 18 million past-month consumers, while alcohol will lose 2 million past-month consumers, as consumers increasingly embrace cannabis and temper their alcohol consumption" – TD Cowen.

This week, we sit down with Paul Weaver, Head of Cannabis at The Boston Beer Company, to discuss the following:

About Boston Beer...

The cannabis industry is gearing up for a significant shift towards sensors and technology. These tools aren't new; they are mainstays in industries like agriculture and oil and gas, now applied directly to cultivation and extraction.

These technologies have been game-changers for the early adopters – playing a crucial role in boosting production and maintaining quality. Imagine having the power to prevent entire crops from failing or ensuring complete cannabinoid extraction, all thanks to sensor technology.

The benefits are substantial for businesses that are quick to adopt these changes. By adopting techniques from other industries, cannabis op...

The cannabis industry requires a unique personality and skill set to do what feels like building in quicksand. 

This personality and perspective is known as Cannabis DNA. 

This week, we sit down with Kmesh to discuss the following:

Guest Links 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmesh/
https://www.kmeshcann.com/ 

#cannabisleadership #cannabis #flowerhire

Follow us: Our Links.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide servi...

"Giant… That's a giant advantage."

Cresco Labs may mirror other Tier 1 MSOs on the surface, but once you explore deeper, you'll discover their unique edge. They've built sophisticated systems and technology that set them apart and enable a nuanced understanding of market conditions. This advanced business intelligence approach significantly narrows risk aperture, proactively allowing Cresco to identify and capitalize on market trends.

This week, we sit down with Charlie Bachtell to discuss: