Bodacious Women in Cannabis

The Business of Joy: Insights from Green Lady Dispensary's Mother-Daughter Duo

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nicole Campbell, the CEO, and her daughter Clea Campbell, the general manager of Green Lady Dispensary in Massachusetts. Celebrating their five-year anniversary, Green Lady Dispensary stands out as the 23rd retail cannabis store in Massachusetts and the first minority and woman-owned cannabis business in the state.

Nicole and Clea shared their journey of breaking barriers in the cannabis industry, dealing with societal prejudices, and the challenges of introducing a cannabis business in a conservative area. They highlighted their unique business model, which includes a vertically integrated operation on Nantucket Island, allowing them to cultivate, manufacture, and retail cannabis products directly to consumers. This setup enables them to offer fresh baked cannabis goods, a rarity in the industry due to typical supply chain constraints.

Clea, bringing a youthful perspective, discussed the dynamics of being young and female in a predominantly male industry. She emphasized her rapid growth within the company and her proactive approach to overcoming stereotypes and challenges.

Nicole reflected on her transition from a 30-year career in marketing to pioneering in the cannabis industry, driven by a desire for change and to create a legacy for her daughters. She shared insights on the importance of planning and having contingency plans when making significant career changes.

Both expressed the joy and satisfaction derived from serving their community, providing high-quality, innovative products, and seeing the positive impact on their customers' lives.

The episode was not only enlightening in terms of understanding the intricacies of the cannabis business but also inspiring, showcasing the power of innovation, resilience, and community focus in entrepreneurship.  https://www.thegreenladydispensary.com/

Clea Bio:

Clea Campbell is the owner and director of communications at The Green Lady Dispensary, located on both Nantucket Island and Newton Centre. Campbell has led communications for the company since 2018, developing innovative advertising and marketing campaigns for the brand. She was the entrepreneurial force in forming the company’s Newton location, where she will act as general manager, leading wholesale logistics, operating procedures, and brand development in preparation for its opening. Campbell has designed a corporate diversity plan and positive impact plan focusing on inclusive hiring goals and giving back to the community through charitable donations.

Nicole Bio:

Nicole serves as Chief Operating Officer at the Green Lady Dispensary. A cannabis industry pioneer, Nicole has a hands-on approach that sets her apart from other industry leaders. As a result, she created the first vertically integrated cannabis company that utilizes its own modified on-premises testing laboratory in the United States. Through technological innovation and intensive research, her operating procedures for the Green Lady's testing laboratory were officially approved by the Cannabis Control Commission in 2019. Her specialties include performing microbial testing and liquid chromatography for cannabinoids on cannabis products at the Green Lady's state-of-the-art laboratory.  

00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction
Susan Burns introduces herself and her guests, Nicole and Clea Campbell from Green Lady Dispensary.

00:01:08 - Celebrating Business Milestones
Nicole discusses the five-year anniversary of Green Lady Dispensary and its significance in Massachusetts.

00:01:42 - Product Offerings and Operations
Discussion about the types of products offered at Green Lady Dispensary, including their focus on marijuana and the unique setup on Nantucket Island.

00:03:06 - Overcoming Industry Barriers
Nicole and Clea talk about the challenges of being pioneers as a minority and woman-owned cannabis business.

00:04:33 - Changing Public Perceptions
Nicole reflects on the societal challenges and misconceptions about cannabis that they had to navigate.

00:05:23 - Dual Nature of Dispensary: Medical and Recreational
Exploration of how Green Lady Dispensary serves both medical and recreational cannabis users.

00:06:08 - Clea's Personal Journey in Cannabis Industry
Clea shares her experiences and challenges as a young woman in a predominantly male industry.

00:08:47 - Personal Growth Through Challenges
Clea discusses how overcoming challenges in the cannabis industry has helped her grow personally and professionally.

00:09:13 - Nicole's Reflections on Initial Struggles and Achievements
Nicole talks about the early days of their business, the struggles they faced, and the positive outcomes that emerged.

00:10:44 - Innovative Product Development
Discussion on unique product offerings like fresh baked goods that differentiate their dispensary.

00:13:03 - Defining Bodaciousness
Clea and Nicole define what being bodacious means to them in the context of their personalities and business approaches.

00:19:00 - Impact on Clients and Community
They discuss how their innovative approaches and product quality impact their clients and the local community.

00:22:04 - Career Transition Advice from Nicole
Nicole provides advice for women who might be considering a significant career change later in life.

00:25:11 - Keeping Motivation Amidst Doubts
Nicole shares what kept her motivated during tough times when doubts about her career change arose.

00:27:34 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Women
Clea gives final advice to women about pursuing their passions and maintaining a positive outlook.

00:28:15 - Retail and Social Media Information
Information on how to access Green Lady Dispensary's products and their presence on social media.

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In this inspiring episode of the Bodacious Women in Cannabis podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sysamone Phaphon, the CEO of Savanh Wellness, an Asian-inspired hemp wellness company. Sysamone's story is not only about her entrepreneurial spirit but also about cultural heritage, family traditions, and breaking barriers in both the cannabis industry and her community.

Sysamone's journey with cannabis began in her childhood, where it was a normalized part of her family life. Her parents, who are refugee immigrants, grew cannabis in their garden and used it in traditional cooking, such as infusing pho broth with weed buds. This early exposure to cannabis as a natural and beneficial plant laid the foundation for Sysamone's future endeavors.

Despite the challenges posed by the war on drugs, which caused her family to pause their use of cannabis, Sysamone's understanding and appreciation for the plant grew as she became more educated. She entered the cannabis market legally when California became regulated, carrying forward her family's legacy and the lessons they taught her about the plant's healing properties.

Sysamone's first role in the industry was with an active ingredient manufacturer, where she supported other brands entering the market. Her experience there, combined with her personal background, led her to create Savanh Wellness. The brand is a testament to her culture, featuring products with Asian flavors like lychee and guava, and even the packaging includes Laotian language to honor her heritage.

One of the most remarkable achievements Sysamone shared was her success in obtaining Thai FDA approval to import her products into Thailand, a significant feat given the patriarchal business culture there. She navigated through the challenges with determination and the support of her brothers, who accompanied her as a sign of respect in meetings with Thai parliament members.

Sysamone's "Bodaciousness" is evident in her ability to stand firm as a female leader in a male-dominated culture, both in the United States and abroad. Her brand not only showcases her culture but also empowers other women in the AAPI community to embrace their heritage and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

Listeners can support Sysamone's work by purchasing products from Savanh Wellness online and can connect with her through the company's social media platforms or by email. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one woman can have in changing perceptions and inspiring a community.

For anyone interested in the cannabis industry, Sysamone's advice is clear: don't be afraid to ask questions, seek guidance from those with experience, and be persistent in your endeavors. Her journey is a testament to what can be achieved with grit, tenacity, and a deep connection to one's roots.

https://www.savanhwellness.com/

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From Chiropractor to Shaman: Dr. Shelly Persad's Transformation with Cannabis

Susan Burns interviews Dr. Shelly Persad, a chiropractor, woman shaman, and author of "Somatophobia." Dr. Shelly shares her unique journey of self-healing and transformation with the help of cannabis, leading her to embrace her higher self and unlock her inner healer.

Dr. Shelly discusses her initial burnout as a chiropractor and her quest to find deeper healing solutions for her patients and herself. Through experiences with plant medicines like Bufo (5-MeO DMT) and cannabis, she undergoes a profound rebirth and redefines her relationship with healing and spirituality.

The conversation delves into Dr. Shelly's transition to becoming a shaman, guided by the medicines and her inner calling. She emphasizes the importance of self-healing and empowerment, encouraging individuals to tap into their own healing abilities and connect with their higher selves.

The episode also explores the concept of somatophobia, the fear of the body and its magnificence, as discussed in Dr. Shelly's book. She details the six portals of healing and self-discovery outlined in her book, offering a roadmap for readers to embark on their own sacred cannabis journey to higher consciousness and self-healing.

Listeners are invited to explore Dr. Shelly's work further through her websites, where she offers resources for connecting with the higher self through sacred cannabis ceremonies and ascension practices. The episode concludes with Dr. Shelly sharing her unique brand of bodaciousness, centered around rebirthing trauma into higher self and accessing multidimensional pleasure through cannabis-guided healing.

https://www.drshellypersad.com/

www.drshellypersad.com/hsg -- free guide how to use cannabis to heal womb symptoms

www.drshellypersad.com/womb-kriyas -- free womb kriya cannabis ceremony
bit.ly/somatophobia -- book on Amazon

bit.ly/somareadings -- book reading registration

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:16 - Introduction to the Podcast

00:01:01 - Dr. Shelly's Journey into Cannabis

00:04:24 - Introduction to Bufo and its Effects

00:09:52 - Communication with Cannabis and Ego

00:18:34 - Becoming a Shaman

00:29:21 - Introduction to Somatophobia

00:33:14 - Dr. Shelly's Unique Brand of Bodaciousness

00:34:52 - Where to Find Dr. Shelly Persaud

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"Harvesting Hope: Molly Cronk's Cannabis-infused Community Gatherings"

Molly Cronk from MJ Haberdashary joins Susan Burns to share her remarkable journey into the cannabis business. Molly, a farmer and founder of MJ Haberdashary, recounts how her brother's leukemia diagnosis sparked her interest in cannabis as a healing tool. Inspired by Rick Simpson's advocacy, Molly delved into creating Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), which she now produces using organic farming practices on her three-generation family farm. She discusses the transformative power of RSO, her commitment to transparency, and her mission to empower others to grow their own medicine. The conversation also touches on Molly's unique farm events, including cannabis-infused dinners and upcoming weddings. Throughout the discussion, Molly's dedication to promoting plant medicine and building community shines through, making her a true steward of the land and the cannabis plant.

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In the latest episode of the Bodacious Women in Cannabis podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Allie Faver, a dynamic and insightful lawyer-turned-cannabis industry professional. Allie's journey from a traditional legal background to the forefront of the cannabis business is not only inspiring but also a testament to the evolving landscape of the industry.

Allie shared her unique story, beginning with her roots in New York, where she completed her education and started her career in labor and employment law. The pandemic, however, prompted a significant reevaluation of her professional and personal goals, leading her to pivot into the cannabis industry. She and her now-husband made the bold decision to move to St. Louis, where she joined CBD Kratom, the largest cannabis and Kratom retailer in the United States.

Despite her initial lack of industry-specific experience, Allie's passion for being a business partner and her eagerness to learn propelled her into a successful role within the company. She candidly discussed the challenges and learning curves she faced, as well as the cultural shock of relocating from New York to the Midwest.

Our conversation delved into the regulatory battles that the hemp industry faces, particularly against the marijuana industry. Allie highlighted the importance of common-sense regulation and the need for the hemp and marijuana sectors to join forces rather than compete. She emphasized the detrimental impact that current legislative efforts have on small businesses and farmers, advocating for consumer choice and transparent labeling.

Allie also touched on the various products offered by CBD Kratom, from microdosing gummies to high-potency smokables, catering to a diverse customer base. She underscored the importance of providing consumers with a range of choices to suit their individual needs and preferences.

As a woman in the cannabis industry, Allie acknowledged the male-dominated nature of the field but expressed optimism about the increasing presence of female leaders. She encouraged listeners, especially women, to boldly pursue their interests in the industry, despite potential stigmas.

Lastly, Allie provided insights into Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, explaining its effects and the industry's push for responsible regulation. She shared her contact information for those interested in learning more about her work or the products offered by CBD Kratom.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of law, business, and cannabis, as well as those seeking inspiration to make a bold career change. Allie Faver's story is a powerful example of the opportunities that arise when we embrace change and pursue our passions with determination and an open mind.

Allie Faver is CBD Kratom's General Counsel, leading the St. Louis-based hemp and kratom retailer's legal matters. Allie additionally oversees the Company's government relations efforts, helping to push common sense cannabis- and kratom-related regulations at the federal, state and local levels. To aid in this effort, Allie is on the board of directors for the Hemp Industries Association ("HIA"), US Hemp Roundtable, and the Texas Hemp Coalition. 

A native New Yorker, Allie received her Bachelor's Degree from the University at Albany and her Juris Doctor from Hofstra University. She previously worked for an Am Law 100 law firm in New York before moving to St. Louis to join CBD Kratom in January of 2021.

Allie currently lives in St. Louis with her husband, Nathan, and their dog, Bear." 

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:16 - Introduction to Bodacious Women in Cannabis
00:00:33 - Host Susan Burns Welcomes Listeners
00:01:03 - Guest Introduction: Allie Favor
00:01:28 - Allie's Journey to the Cannabis Industry
00:02:39 - Decision to Move and Join CBD Kratom
00:03:42 - Regulatory Challenges in Cannabis
00:04:41 - Hemp vs. Marijuana Industry Dynamics
00:05:18 - Consumer Choice and Product Lines
00:06:02 - Legal Distinctions in Cannabis
00:07:42 - Industry Impact on Small Businesses
00:08:33 - Shift in Marijuana Industry Players
00:09:27 - Big Pharma's Influence on Cannabis
00:10:39 - The Plight of Hemp Farmers
00:11:40 - Regulations Impacting Hemp Industry
00:12:25 - Accessibility and Consumer Choice
00:13:15 - The Future of Hemp Feed for Farmers
00:14:12 - Tax Challenges in the Marijuana Industry
00:14:55 - Consumer Preferences and Dosage Variations
00:16:09 - CBD Kratom's Diverse Product Range
00:17:49 - Microdosing and High-Potency Products
00:18:42 - Dispensaries vs. Hemp Retailers
00:19:13 - Distribution Challenges for Hemp Products
00:20:25 - Beverage Market Dynamics in Minnesota
00:21:44 - Stigma and Education in Cannabis
00:22:35 - The Legal Landscape and Learning Curve
00:23:12 - Misconceptions and Legislative Hurdles
00:24:05 - The Irony of Restrictive Regulations
00:24:46 - The Role of Kratom in the Industry
00:27:48 - Allie's Experience as a Woman in Cannabis
00:30:25 - Advice for Aspiring Industry Professionals
00:31:08 - Defining 'Bodacious' in Professional Context
00:33:18 - Contact Information and Closing Remarks

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"From Shy Child to Cannabis Champion: Cynthia Cabrera's Bodacious Journey"

Susan Burns is joined by Cynthia Cabrera, Chief Strategy Officer at Hometown Hero, director of the Hemp Industries Association and Chair of the Cannabinoids Council, to discuss various topics related to the cannabis industry. They delve into Cynthia's background, her journey into the hemp sector, and her experiences with Hometown Hero. Cynthia shares insights on the challenges faced by the hemp industry, including legal battles and regulatory hurdles, particularly in Texas. She also highlights the importance of unity and collaboration within the cannabis industry, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and support for small businesses, women, minorities, veterans, and farmers. Throughout the conversation, Cynthia's bold and bodacious personality shines through as she provides candid commentary on the state of the industry and her experiences within it.

https://hometownhero.com/

https://thehia.org/abouthia/board-and-staff/

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"Legal Mavericks Unleashed: The Texas Cannabis Revolution"

Susan Burns, a cannabis lawyer, interviews Andrea Steel, an attorney with Frost Brown Todd from Texas. Andrea is recognized as one of the premier attorneys in the cannabis space, having worked on landmark cases. Andrea shares her journey into cannabis law, starting her practice just as Texas was launching its program. Intrigued by the legal nuances of state-level cannabis legalization violating federal law, she was also driven by personal experiences, having overcome adversities as an at-risk youth and believing in the medicinal benefits of cannabis.

Andrea discusses her transition into cannabis law, including the pivotal moment when she informed her former firm about launching a cannabis practice. She became the leader of the cannabis group, emphasizing the importance of not asking for permission, especially as a woman in a conservative industry.

The conversation then delves into Andrea's experiences with hemp law, particularly in Texas. Andrea sheds light on a significant case involving Delta-8 THC, a compound found in hemp, and the legal challenges faced. The discussion touches on the intricacies of hemp regulations, the definition of hemp, and the impact of federal and state rules on the industry.

The podcast episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis law, the challenges faced by attorneys in this field, and the intersection of legal, regulatory, and personal perspectives. Andrea's passion for the industry and her commitment to advocating for fair and clear regulations shine through in the conversation.

https://frostbrowntodd.com/people/andrea-hope-j-steel/

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"Combining Cannabis and Sex: Challenging Taboos and Enhancing the Experience"

The founder and CEO of Lavinia, Katie Enright, joins Susan Burns to share her journey from initially studying to become a nun to creating a unique product that combines cannabis and sex. The product, which challenges taboos, serves as a lubricant and enhances the sexual experience by leveraging cannabis's vasodilating properties. Despite launching during the pandemic in 2020, the product gained popularity and garnered positive reviews.

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Bodacious Women in Cannabis - https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/

Susan Burns - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/

Lavinia - https://ohlavinia.com/

Katie Enright - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-enright-5b3075219/

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"Revolutionizing Cannabis Marketing Online"

Susan Burns  talks with Reagan Hatch, the co-founder of CannaSite, a cannabis marketing agency. Reagan discusses how CannaSite offers transparent and accessible website solutions for cannabis businesses. They emphasize providing ownership of websites to their clients, avoiding long-term contracts, and empowering clients with knowledge on website maintenance. Reagan shares her passion for working in the cannabis industry, meeting fascinating people, and appreciating the ingenuity and hard work present in the cannabis community.

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Bodacious Women in Cannabis - https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/

Susan Burns - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/

Reagan Hatch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/reagan-mcelroy-hatch/

CannaSite - https://cannasite.com/

Recorded on Squadcast

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"Unleashing Social Media Power: How Hybrid Social Redefines Success in the Cannabis Industry"

Amy Donahue, the founder of Hybrid Social, a social media branding and strategy business, discusses her work in the cannabis industry during a podcast interview with Susan Burns . Amy provides compliant and professional social media services for cannabis clients, including cleanup work for accounts that have been shut down or shadow banned due to violations of social network rules. She emphasizes the importance of educating clients about the true nature of social media and the need for targeted branding in the cannabis industry.

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Bodacious Women in Cannabis - https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/

Susan Burns - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/

Amy Donahue - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amydonohue/

Hybrid Social - https://gethybridsocial.com/

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