Daron Babin catches up with Darren Gleeman, the managing partner of MBO Ventures, the cannabis industry's only investment bank dedicated to Employee Stock Ownership Plans.

MBO Ventures is the cannabis industry’s only investment bank dedicated to Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) which make the negative tax implications of 280E irrelevant. They hold a patent pending for its groundbreaking ESOP methodology. This methodology played a pivotal role in executing the cannabis industry’s first three inaugural ESOPs.

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Grassroots Marketing welcomes Christy Fuicelli, the founder of MJ Attache. She shared insights into the creation of high-end luxury cannabis accessories, highlighting the discreet yet luxurious Anthony bag priced at $2150. Drawing from personal experiences, Fuicelli identified a market gap and emphasized innovative designs using Italian leather. Fuicelli's dedication to meeting diverse consumer needs within the cannabis community while maintaining elegance and functionality was evident. 

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Sandra Bergman, the founder and CEO of ESBE Marketing, emphasized the significance of effective loyalty programs in retail cannabis operations.

She stressed the need for businesses to analyze loyalty program performance through metrics, engage customers beyond discounts, and promote loyalty programs through in-store execution.

Strategies for incentivizing bud tenders were explored, including tying incentives to loyalty sign-ups and utilizing various touchpoints within dispensaries. Sandra underscored the importance of offering tailored rewards based on customer preferences and creating a personalized customer experience.

She advised on loyalty program management, suggesting a balance between incentives and financial considerations, efficient point redemption, and clear communication about points balance, expiration dates, and reward qualifications.

Sandra also highlighted the importance of iterating on loyalty programs to enhance customer experience and drive consistent foot traffic through transparent communication and measures like point expiration policies

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Legal cannabis businesses in California are hindered by limited city approvals, leading to the growth of the illicit market. Michael Moussalli's High Seas dispensary stands out through its ocean conservation theme, commitment to sustainability, and personalized shopping experience. Exotic aquarium attractions along with a focus on quality products and community engagement, High Seas aims to innovate and lead in sustainable cannabis retail practices.

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Grassroots Marketing welcomes back Harrison Bard with Custom Cones USA about a new campaign where they are seeking skilled content creators in the cannabis industry for a unique job opportunity.

The focus is on finding candidates with social media expertise, content creation skills, and a deep understanding of the cannabis market. iPhone stresses the importance of professionalism, personal branding, and debunking marketing myths. Harrison emphasizes Day Savers' quest for individuals to promote the brand effectively across platforms.

DaySavers is offering the Ultimate Stoner Dream Job - an opportunity to smoke test the latest cannabis products, be part of the best cannabis industry events, and share your experience with the world - all while getting paid. They are looking for passionate and hard-working content creators to join their team. One lucky full-time creator and event marketer will be chosen to earn $70,420 annually with bonuses, travel expenses, and other perks included as well. Applicants will also have the chance to be selected for one of many part-time dream jobs. 

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The upcoming opening of the Cannabis Hall of Fame aims to celebrate industry pioneers and celebrities like Henry Ford and Wanda James, focusing on business success and cultural heritage.

Tony Schor, President, Investor Awareness, Inc. & Chairman of the Cannabis Hall of Fame discusses the initiative prioritizes merit-based inductions and aims to showcase cannabis brands through interactive exhibits at Cannabition (located inside Planet 13 Las Vegas), fostering community engagement and awareness within the cannabis culture.

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Budist is a mobile app in the cannabis sector led by CEO Jocelyn Sheltraw and COO Claudio Miranda. The platform provides expert-led reviews from 'Buddists' to offer diverse perspectives on cannabis product evaluations, emphasizing social interaction and detailed reviews. Buddist plans to expand beyond California into major North American markets, aiming to democratize product evaluations and encourage a culture of connoisseurship. The app distinguishes itself by combining professional critiques with consumer reviews, prioritizing informed choices and individual preferences through onboarding questions.

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NYC Bud, a retail cannabis dispensary with a unique subway culture and graffiti art theme. Jonpaul Pezzo discusses his background in the cannabis industry, his partnerships, and challenges faced due to legal issues impacting licensing processes, and insights into business operations and PR strategies for the Long Island City store.

We also touched on personal anecdotes about nightclub experiences, challenges from legacy operators, and the financial implications of governmental support for startup funding. We also get insights into NYC Bud's journey and navigating regulatory challenges.

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Ben Burstein, Corporate Development Manager at LeafLink discusses the strategies for the cannabis industry ahead of the 420 holiday, with a focus on driving profitability through increased sales volumes and addressing illicit market activities. Ben highlighted the importance of strategic inventory management, promotional activities, and balancing cultivation capacity with retail demand. Challenges faced by social equity licensees due to limited access to capital were discussed, along with the need for comprehensive legislative frameworks to improve social equity programs.

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Grassroots Marketing speaks with Charlie Hernandez, CEO, Dispensary-Growth.io dispensary SEO strategies, emphasizing high rankings and sustainable growth. They discussed overcoming industry challenges like limited social media marketing, collaboration with Mosaic for online visibility, and integrating Google marketing platforms. Essential factors such as local SEO strategies, geo-targeting, website optimization, and podcasting efforts for Season 2 of the High Rankings podcast were highlighted, along with insights into Dispensary Growth IO's targeted approach for high-functioning dispensaries.

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