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Liz Rodrigo, CEO and co-founder of CaliLily, joined the show to discuss the rising popularity of cannabis edibles, particularly among younger generations who are increasingly choosing them over alcohol. Liz highlighted the appeal of edibles due to their convenience and lack of lingering effects compared to alcohol.
CaliLily distinguishes itself through its commitment to using high-quality ingredients, such as solventless live rosin, and providing complete transparency about the strain and farm origin of the cannabis used in their products. Liz emphasized that this commitment to quality and transparency is a core value of the CaliLily brand.
The conversation explored the evolving landscape of cannabis consumption, with a focus on empowering consumers to choose when and how they use edibles. CaliLily's globally-inspired flavors and commitment to conscious consumption align with this evolving consumer mindset.
Currently available in California, CaliLily has ambitious expansion plans, including bringing dispensaries online. Liz encouraged interested dispensary owners to connect with her to discuss opportunities. She also shared her personal journey that inspired her to create CaliLily, underscoring the brand's authentic story and commitment to quality cannabis experiences.
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Dominique White, Director of People and Operations at Ivy Hall, shared insights into the dispensary's unique approach to cannabis retail. Ivy Hall prioritizes a sensory-driven experience, educating customers about terpenes and cannabinoids while fostering a welcoming and human-centered environment. As the first social equity dispensary in Illinois, Ivy Hall has grown to nine locations with a tenth slated to open in January 2025.
Ivy Hall distinguishes itself through its commitment to both customer and employee experience. This dedication has garnered significant recognition, including a visit from Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. The dispensary's Charter Club offers members exclusive perks and discounts based on spending levels, enhancing customer loyalty and engagement. Ivy Hall also runs creative promotions, like their upcoming Wonka-themed Black Friday giveaway, to further engage customers.
Employee training is a cornerstone of Ivy Hall's success. The company prioritizes hiring individuals with transferable skills from traditional retail or the cannabis industry, and utilizes tools like Rvt and See Talent for comprehensive product knowledge and customer service training. Employees are encouraged to try products and make informed recommendations, fostering a culture of expertise and customer care.
Beyond its business operations, Ivy Hall actively engages in community outreach. Their "Blood for Bud" campaign, in partnership with Vitaland, hosts blood drives across their locations, making a tangible impact on public health. The dispensary also advocates for policy changes and supports expungement efforts for those with past cannabis-related convictions. With locations throughout the Chicagoland area, Ivy Hall is a growing force in Illinois' cannabis landscape.
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Lilach Mazor Power, representing Giving Tree Dispensary, joined the show Grassroots Marketing to discuss her upcoming panel at MJ Biz in Las Vegas where she will be sharing insights on navigating the Arizona cannabis market. Lilach highlighted key factors for success in Arizona, including understanding market trends, product categories, pricing strategies, and emerging opportunities like the recent legalization of adult-use cannabis home delivery.
Beyond market analysis, Lilach emphasized Giving Tree's commitment to community engagement and education. Their "Coffee and Cannabis Series" provides a welcoming space for adults aged 55 and older to learn about cannabis in a pressure-free environment. This initiative reflects Giving Tree's dedication to responsible cannabis education and accessibility.
Giving Tree's success stems from its strong community ties. Lilach highlighted their commitment to corporate citizenship, with over $120,000 donated to charities and extensive employee volunteerism. By fostering a welcoming and transparent environment, Giving Tree aims to destigmatize cannabis and demonstrate its positive role in the community.
The dispensary's competitive pricing, focus on high-quality products, and support for local businesses contribute to its unique selling points. Located at 701 West Union Hills Drive in Phoenix, Arizona, Giving Tree Dispensary offers a comfortable and informative customer experience. Customers can also access their products through a partnership with Grasp delivery services.
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Chloe Kaleiokalani, founder of CAKE She Hits Different, sat down for an interview to discuss her unique brand at the intersection of music, cannabis, and immersive experiences.
A DJ and producer with a passion for melodic techno and house music, Chloe's love for cannabis and her Hawaiian heritage inspired her to create CAKE. She aims to infuse her work with the aloha spirit and promote joy and love through her brand, especially in challenging times.
Chloe's journey in the cannabis industry is a partnership with Jason, an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience. Together, they've mastered cultivation, extraction, and brand identity, adapting to the market's shift towards vapes and concentrates. Their collaboration leverages Chloe's strength in brand identity and Jason's expertise in technology and procurement. This has led to the creation of their popular cryo live resin product.
CAKE is expanding its product line with a rosin line, a dab device, and a new concentrate line. Currently available in California, Arizona, and Nevada, the brand is actively involved in events in Arizona and anticipates a Nevada launch in early 2025. Customers can find CAKE products through a location map on their website.
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Grassroots Marketing explores the evolving landscape of cannabis delivery services in California, featuring insights from Louis Samuel, founder of Golden State Cannabis.
Samuel discusses the impact of economic challenges and market shifts on the industry, emphasizing the enduring power of passion and customer service.
He also highlights Golden State Cannabis's commitment to innovative products like their new Groovy Chews, a high-potency CBN and THC blend designed for sleep enhancement.
The conversation touches on the company's delivery strategies, including their online presence and personalized customer interactions, reflecting their dedication to navigating the changing tides of the California cannabis market.
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Brasco and SRĐA, Partnerships and Events Manager at Travel Agency.. discussed the establishment and growth of their social equity cannabis businesses in New York.
SRĐA explained how their partnership with the DOE fund, which supports individuals transitioning from former incarceration, homelessness, and other issues, has been instrumental in their expansion. They have opened three stores in Manhattan and Brooklyn, with plans for more.
SRĐA highlighted the importance of their non-profit partnership, which provides infrastructural support and fosters relationships with community leaders. They also emphasized their commitment to hiring formerly incarcerated individuals and legacy operators, providing them with opportunities to thrive in the legal cannabis industry.
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Jim Higdon, co-founder of Cornbread Hemp, discussed the implications of California's hemp regulations, which ban hemp products with any detectable THC. He criticized Governor Gavin Newsom for aligning with the House Freedom Caucus and issuing strict regulations without legislative approval. Higdon highlighted the need for federal regulation through the Farm Bill, noting delays and potential negative amendments.
He praised Senator Ron Wyden's Cannabinoid Safety Regulation Act and Senator Rand Paul's Hemp Economic Mobilization Act, which the latter could raise THC limits to 1%. Cornbread Hemp recently launched USDA-certified organic THC gummies, available in 49 states, emphasizing responsible sales practices.
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Jonathan Robbins discuss the Florida cannabis industry and the upcoming vote on Amendment 3, which could expand Florida's cannabis program from medical to adult use. Robbins, Chair of Akerman's Cannabis Practice, highlights the well-funded pro-Amendment 3 campaign led by medical marijuana treatment centers, contrasting with Governor DeSantis's opposition. He notes the need for 60% voter approval and the potential tax revenue increase from $2 billion from $500 million annually. Robbins also addresses the regulatory challenges, including enforcement and social equity, and emphasizes the importance of responsible industry practices.
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Ryan Thomas, Director of Marketing at Aeriz, shares the company's journey to success in the competitive cannabis market. He emphasizes the importance of consistent branding, a passionate team connected to cannabis culture, and a diverse product line featuring live rosin batter, live resin vapes, hash drops, and edibles. Aeriz's commitment to quality has earned them recognition, including being named one of Marijuana Venture's 40 under 40 and securing awards for their products, like the Jenny Kush strain and Lucid Blue live resin, in the New Times Best of Phoenix edition.
Thomas highlights the company's unique approach to marketing, building an in-house agency over the past seven years. This allows for greater creative control and agility, fostering a strong brand identity. He discusses the challenges of navigating the evolving cannabis market, including pricing strategies in light of awards and seasonal fluctuations.
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Kyle Neathery, CEO of Samson Extracts, discussed their significant growth, extracting and processing over 1.5 million pounds of biomass in 2023, aiming for 3 million in 2024. They are expanding domestically and exploring international markets, particularly in Europe and South America. Neathery expressed concerns about the expired 2018 Farm Bill and its impact on the industry, highlighting the need for regulation to ensure product quality and safety. Samson Extracts focuses on GMP-certified operations and advanced extraction techniques, aiming for high purity and affordability. They also launched a skincare line, Wiregrass Wellness, to diversify their product offerings.
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Vanessa Yee-Chan, owner of Alta, the first legal cannabis dispensary in Chinatown, NYC, shares her journey of launching the business rooted in her family's history with the building. The dispensary emphasizes supporting local businesses and integrating with the community through educational outreach and partnerships, particularly targeting newer generations of Asian Americans. Alta focuses on women's health, offering products designed for menstrual pain and anxiety in a boutique-inspired store. The aesthetic features a pink, white, and gold design, and products are organized by mood. Vanessa also highlights the importance of community engagement and plans for future in-store events, all while adapting offerings based on customer feedback.
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Dr. Monica Werkheiser, a leading cannabis advocate and former pharmacist, discussed her transition from traditional pharmacy to cannabis advocacy. She highlighted her efforts in Pennsylvania to include anxiety as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana, citing studies showing cannabis's benefits for anxiety, sleep, and pain. Dr. Werkheiser emphasized the importance of dose control and education in cannabis use. She also detailed the design and community-focused approach of her new dispensary, Canna Remedies, in Ewing Township, New Jersey, which aims to provide a welcoming, educational environment for customers. The dispensary offers a range of products, including flowers, edibles, and concentrates, and hosts community events and classes.
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Elisabeth Chambry, a media professional and product developer, discusses her journey of creating a unique, concealed smoking apparatus. Inspired by a desire for both form and function, she designed a bong disguised as a decorative object, emphasizing discreetness and timeless design with Mantelpiece. The manufacturing process, which prioritizes sustainability and fair labor practices, is detailed, including the challenges of finding a suitable factory and the use of high-quality materials like borosilicate glass.
Elisabeth also outlines her plans for product line expansion, patent acquisition, and strategic promotion through partnerships and media outreach. The limited-edition nature of the first release, featuring a unique engraving, is highlighted, alongside a commitment to donating a portion of the profits to the Last Prisoner Project.
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Mark Cozzi, founder of the Bettering Company, discussed the expansion of his luxury edible brand into New York, following its success in Illinois. The company offers premium, vegan, gluten-free THC gummies and chocolates, with unique flavors like blood orange and fennel fig.
Cozzi highlighted the use of minor cannabinoids for specific effects, such as sleep (Midnight Cherry Slumber Gummy) and energy (Lemon Zest Energized Gummy). The Bettering Company also supports LGBTQIA+ charities, pledging a portion of New York proceeds to local organizations. Future expansion plans include New Jersey and Ohio.
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Chef Stacy Rae, a New York-based Latina chef, shared her experience and knowledge about incorporating CBD tinctures into cooking. She emphasized the importance of using the right temperature and not overcooking the tinctures to preserve their potency. Chef Stacy also discussed her cookbook "The CBD Recipe Guru: More Than 60 Delicious Foods Without the High," (available on Amazon and her website) which features color-coded recipes using CBD or THC and provides educational resources on using CBD in the kitchen. She also touched on the cultural significance of certain ingredients, like the Achiote seed, in ancestral cuisines.
Chef Stacy also shared her background as a licensing agent and her previous success with a cookbook on romantic recipes. As a licensed cosmetologist with 20 years of experience, Chef Stacey Rae has always been interested in both beauty and food. Her first book, which included recipes like "Oysters, Rock Your Fella," was a hit, leading to sold-out book signings worldwide. Now, Chef Stacy is excited about her new book focused on CBD and THC-infused recipes.
The conversation then turned to the current trend of home cooking and the rise of meal delivery services. Chef Stacy's recipes, which include a cilantro pistachio pesto and vegan protein balls, cater to various lifestyles and preferences, suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. The cilantro pistachio pesto, in particular, has been praised for its unique flavor and versatility.
Chef Stacy also introduced her new savory and sweet recipes featuring Buddhabites, a versatile ingredient. The decadent cocoa cake and the fusion of Asian and Mexican flavors in Chef Stacy's dishes were particularly appreciated.
Finally, Chef Stacy Rae discussed healthy and flavorful meal options, sharing her tips on using healthy ingredients like shrimp, chicken, and tofu in dishes like fried rice and enchiladas.
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Johnathan MacFarlane, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at RollPros, discussed the potential of their automated pre-roll production system, the Blackbird, to transform the cannabis industry. They highlighted the product's ability to reduce human error, increase efficiency, and ensure compliance with regulations. The discussion also touched upon the evolving market trends, the impact of potential federal legalization, and the importance of data-driven decision-making in the cannabis industry.
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Andrew Wells, the Chief of Staff at Sorting Robotics, discussed the growing role of automation and AI in the cannabis industry. They highlighted the parallels between the cannabis and wine industries, both of which have leveraged technology to improve efficiency and product quality.
Andrew emphasized that automation is not about replacing workers, but rather about enabling them to take on more strategic roles within the company. The discussion also touched upon the importance of quality in the cannabis manufacturing process and how Sorting Robotics' technology helps brands optimize their operations.
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Matha Figaro, the founder of ButaCake, discussed her company’s journey into cannabis-infused edibles, beginning with a simple butter cake business in 2015. A classically trained pastry chef, Matha expanded into cannabis-infused products following a customer's request. She emphasized that all ButaCake products are handmade with natural ingredients, without additives or preservatives, ensuring compliance with state laws. The company initially launched in Delaware, partnering with Columbia Care due to the lack of edible regulations in New Jersey. After successful entries into the Delaware and New Jersey markets, ButaCake recently expanded into Maryland.
Matha shared insights into the delicate balance required when infusing baked goods with cannabis, aiming to create products that are both flavorful and effective. Initially, the company’s products were distillate-based to comply with New Jersey’s legal requirements. Matha highlighted their commitment to catering to all consumers, including those who prefer not to taste the cannabis. She also revealed plans to introduce strain-specific baked goods with more complex flavor profiles, reflecting their dedication to innovation.
The conversation also touched on the production and distribution challenges, particularly regarding ButaCake’s popular "Butter Cake." Regulatory and compliance hurdles, such as the inability to ship cannabis products, have influenced the company’s strategy. Despite these challenges, ButaCake is focusing on growth in New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware while exploring opportunities in other states. Matha emphasized the importance of having a diverse team of professionals to support the company’s success, showcasing ButaCake's commitment to quality and expansion.
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Monica Olano bravely shared her battle with postpartum depression, anxiety, and PTSD after the traumatic birth of her twins. The unexpected complications and lack of transparency from medical professionals took a toll on her mental health. Monica found healing through therapy, plant medicine, and her conscious decision to avoid alcohol. She discussed the challenges of balancing motherhood, running a business with her husband, and how vital a strong support system was throughout her journey.
Monica has become an advocate for cannabis as a healthier alternative to alcohol, celebrating her 17-month alcohol-free journey and its positive impact on her physical and mental well-being. She encouraged mothers to explore cannabis as a wellness tool and shared how accessible it is to obtain a medical marijuana card, even in conservative states like Louisiana. Her journey towards sobriety also led to a spiritual transformation, incorporating therapy, exercise, and cannabis into her daily life.
Through Cali Sober Mom,, Monica is dedicated to empowering individuals, especially women, to embrace sobriety and take control of their health. She highlights the potential of cannabis-based products as a viable alternative to alcohol, advising a gradual approach to dosage and stressing the need for accessible education on these products. Monica’s mission is to create a supportive community for those looking to heal, grow, and thrive through sobriety and cannabis.
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Danielle Wildstein, the founder of Blue Oak Dispensary, opens up about her mission to normalize cannabis use and empower patients through education and compassionate care.
She shares her vision for the company, her personal journey into the cannabis industry, and the importance of providing personalized guidance to medical marijuana patients.
The conversation touches on the challenges facing the New Jersey medical cannabis market, community engagement efforts in Bloomfield, and the broader landscape of the cannabis industry, from education and professionalism to the increasing popularity of edibles. Discover how Blue Oak Dispensary is breaking barriers and transforming the way people perceive and experience cannabis.
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