Hope Wiseman, CEO and founder of WISECO, is an entrepreneur and advocate for equity in the cannabis industry. In 2018, at just 25 years old, Hope made history as the youngest Black woman in the U.S. to own a cannabis dispensary, launching Mary & Main in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Under her leadership, Mary & Main has become a community pillar for education, access, and opportunity in the local cannabis community, earning her features in Black Enterprise, ESSENCE, and other leading publications.

In 2025, Hope expanded her mission by launching Legal and Licensed, a first-of-its-kind platform to support Black and brown cannabis entrepreneurs. Legal and Licensed connects members to resources, expert industry leaders, and a thriving community, empowering them to navigate and succeed in this complex, ever-changing industry. Hope’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and economic empowerment continues to make her a respected voice and leader in cannabis entrepreneurship.

🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The story behind Hope’s entry into the cannabis industry
• Major challenges Black entrepreneurs face in regulated industries
• How she stayed resilient despite licensing, funding, and compliance barriers
• The mission and impact of her platform Legal and Licensed
• Strategies for building a community-centered business
• Advice for young Black entrepreneurs navigating uncharted territory
• Why purpose and faith are essential to sustainable success

🔗 Connect with Hope Wiseman:

1. Instagram: @iamhopesodope
2. Kiss My Grass Documentary: Tribeca Festival Selection
3. Website: legalandlicensed.com
4. Threads: @iamhopesodope
5. LinkedIn: Hope Wiseman
6. YouTube: @HOPESODOPE

🎧 Credits:

Host: Taryell Simmons

Guest: Hope Wiseman

Music: Will Maker

Production: RISE Urban Nation

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Thank you for tuning into the RISE Urban Nation Podcast, where we go beyond conversation to fuel a movement of unity, empowerment, and transformation across the Black and Pan-African community. Each episode dives deep into the stories of entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers shaping culture, business, and legacy.

Hosted by Taryell Simmons, a leader in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, the show blends storytelling with strategy to help you amplify your voice, grow your brand, and lead with purpose.

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