Grow Sessions

In today's episode, guest host Mark Doherty joins Carl Giannone, Co-Founder of Trade Roots in MA, for an insider's perspective on building and operating a vertically integrated cannabis business in one of the most competitive markets. This episode dives into market dynamics, price compression, and strategic decision-making — with a focus on the MA cannabis landscape.

Carl provides a overview of his journey from Wall Street to cannabis cultivation, beginning with a life-changing conversation on a mountain in OR and his mother's battle with cancer. The conversation unpacks the transformation of the MA market, from early-stage premium pricing to today's commodity-level competition, highlighting critical factors that determine survival in an oversaturated market.

Highlights include challenges encountered by cannabis operators, such as massive price compression (from $14/gram to $3.31/gram wholesale), the complexities of vertical integration, and the ongoing debate between craft cultivation and commercial-scale production. Carl provides insights into brand building, operational efficiency, and market positioning, alongside his work with the Institute of Cannabis Science promoting industry transparency and consumer education, making this an essential resource for industry professionals, investors, and cannabis entrepreneurs seeking to understand the business realities behind legalization.

Don't miss this candid conversation that could save you time, money, and costly mistakes in the cannabis industry. Tune in now to gain the hard-earned wisdom that only comes from navigating the complexities of cannabis business operations firsthand.

Carl Gianonne, Trade Roots

After graduating without distinction from Lafayette College with degrees in Economics & Business, Carl began his career as an equities trader at Trillium Management in 1999.  In 2006 Carl started his own desk, first under Sungard and then T3 Capital Management (2010).  By 2014, his desk employed over 100 traders in two offices deploying myriad strategies across a range of asset classes.  In 2017 he joined Jesse Pitts in helping found Trade Roots - Massachusetts first vertically integrated social equity operator in the cannabis industry.  Carl serves as the Board’s Chair, and his daily responsibilities include strategy, business development, marketing and brand--specializing in irreverent LNKD content. 

If you'd like to connect with Carl, please email him [email protected] or visit Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/carlgiannone.

Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag

Mark has spent over 15 years at the forefront of the CEA and the cannabis industry, leading projects and building successful businesses across NA. He began his journey with Aqua Vita Farms, one of the first commercial aquaponic farms in the U.S., where he helped pioneer sustainable indoor farming practices.

Throughout his career, Mark has scaled multi-state cannabis operations, driven startups to over $60 million in annual revenue, and led more than 300 cultivation projects. His expertise spans facility design and operational efficiency to team development and growth.

Guided by the philosophy of People, Plants, and Profits, Mark focuses on building strong teams, implementing smart systems, and delivering lasting results. He has a proven track record of helping organizations navigate complex challenges—from commissioning high-tech facilities to adapting during global disruptions.

If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected].

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On today’s episode of Grow Sessions, "Cannabis Genetics: The Root of Success in Commercial Cultivation," we welcome guest host Zachary Taylor, GM of Cultivation at Bountiful Farms, and Jason Begley, CEO of Zennetix, a leader in cannabis genetics.

Success in the cannabis industry starts with understanding the importance of genetics as the foundation of quality cultivation. This episode dives into how genetics deliver consistent high yields and premium quality in commercial operations. Today we explore the balance between preserving valuable legacy strains and leveraging advanced techniques like tissue culture to produce disease-free "Gen Zero" plants.

In this episode we break down how tissue culture creates genetically pure starter material that eliminates threats like hop latent viroid, providing cultivators with a clean, reliable foundation. The discussion covers practical strategies for choosing genetics that scale effectively, managing genetic diversity across large operations, and sidestepping the pitfalls that can compromise entire harvests. We also detail how tissue culture streamlines propagation while guaranteeing pathogen-free plants and consistency.

Beyond cultivation, the conversation explores how genetic innovations are opening new doors in medical cannabis and addressing the worldwide need for cleaner, higher-quality plant material and the importance of honoring traditional strains while embracing scientific advances that push the industry forward.

For cultivators, breeders, and plant science enthusiasts, this episode delivers the knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

About Zachary Taylor, GM Cultivation, Bountiful Farms

Zach Taylor serves as GM of Cultivation at Bountiful Farms, a premium cannabis company operating a medical dispensary in Natick, Massachusetts and a cutting-edge cultivation facility in Lakeville, MA. With over 15 years in the cannabis industry, Zach began as a caregiver in Colorado in 2007, becoming one of the first 18-year-olds to receive a medical license and among the first 5,000 licensed cannabis employees nationwide. He spent six years managing large-scale cultivation operations in Colorado before bringing his expertise to Massachusetts.

Since co-founding Bountiful Farms in 2018, Zach has built a cultivation program that consistently delivers award-winning cannabis. Under his leadership, the team has earned multiple Best Grass in Mass cultivator cups and numerous other industry recognitions for their uncompromising approach to quality products. Rooted in his agricultural background and driven by cannabis's medical potential, Zach continues to innovate with new cultivation techniques and strains. He remains passionate about drug policy reform and finds the greatest satisfaction in serving both medical patients and recreational consumers with exceptional cannabis products.

Please visit www.bountifulfarms.care to learn more about Bountiful Farms.

About Jason Begley, Zennetix

At Zennetix, we are dedicated to the art of propagating perfection.

Our Gen Zero tissue culture clones are certified pest and pathogen-free.  Using Zennetix Gen-Zero clones means more vigorous plants and higher yields -- helping you consistently cultivate the best possible cannabis. 

Inquire about our demand planning services to keep your mother room performing year-round.

If you have questions, you can reach Jason at [email protected].

Please visit www.zennetix.com to learn more about Zennetix.

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In this episode of Grow Sessions, Tony Pavlakis sits down with Jim Megerson of Anvil Agrinomics about the complexities of designing efficient indoor cannabis cultivation facilities. Titled “Connecting Your Cannabis Grow: Easy Efficiency with Integrated Systems,” the episode emphasizes the critical need for system integration over siloed approaches. Early collaboration between architects and engineers is spotlighted as essential to avoiding costly structural and operational issues.

They dive into key design considerations—like balancing upfront costs with long-term returns, adopting effective building automation systems, and tackling the integration of environmental controls (such as lighting and fertigation) from the start. The discussion also explores the value of consistent data tracking for smart operational decisions and the importance of a well-defined business plan that drives infrastructure needs, rather than forcing operations into existing building limitations.

Strategic planning and integrated design are essential for the future of efficient indoor cultivation. Tune in now to gain practical insights from this must-hear episode.

About Jim Megerson, Anvil Argninomics

With over 40 years of experience in the design and construction of building systems, Jim Megerson leads Anvil Agrinomics while keeping current with issues of building systems design, including indoor controlled environments for agriculture, energy efficiency standards and green building practices. 

During college, Jim completed a sheet metal worker apprenticeship program where he gained invaluable knowledge in the fabrication and installation of sheet metal products, HVAC equipment and associated hardware for large commercial, material handling and clean room applications. 

This combines world class engineering knowledge along with hands-on, tool belt wearing experience to balancing design, construction cost, operations & maintenance to achieve the best return on the owner’s HVACD investment.

Jim participates on multiple National Committees including the NCIAs’ Facility committee and ASHRAEs’ MTG on controlled environments for agriculture. He regularly speaks on these topics at national conferences.

Anvil Agrinomics has completed MEP design on over 40 cannabis cultivation and manufacturing spaces and over 20 dispensaries in 20 different states. This combines to approximately 1.8 million sqft of cannabis industry facilities.

If you have questions, you can reach Jim at [email protected].

Please visit www.anvil-ag.com to learn more about Anvil Agrinomics.

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In today's episode of Grow Sessions, host Tony Pavlakis speaks with Timo Bongartz, CEO of Cannavigia, for an insider's perspective on the cannabis industry's evolving global ecosystem. This episode dives into cannabis cultivation, regulation, and technological innovation — with a special focus on the European market.

Timo provides a comprehensive overview of Cannavigia's cutting-edge seed-to-sale tracking software, which has become a critical tool for cannabis businesses navigating Europe's stringent regulatory landscape. The conversation unpacks the critical differences between European and US cannabis markets, highlighting Europe's medical-focused approach and the critical importance of precise tracking and compliance.

Key highlights include an exploration of the challenges encountered by cannabis businesses globally, such as banking restrictions and regulatory complexities, alongside the significant opportunities arising in markets like Germany. Timo provides valuable insights into vertical integration, technological solutions, and the global future of cannabis legalization, making this episode an essential resource for industry professionals and cannabis enthusiasts seeking to deepen their understanding.

About Timo Bongartz, Cannavigia, CEO

 Timo Bongartz brings over 15 years of business innovation expertise to his role as Chief Executive Officer at Cannavigia, specializing in the horticulture and cannabis sectors. Previously at Fluence and OSRAM, he focused on advanced horticultural lighting. An MBA graduate from Hochschule München with certifications in management and horticulture, Timo drives sustainable growth in the industry.

If you have questions, you can reach Timo at [email protected].

Please visit www.cannavigia.com to learn more about Cannavigia.

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It’s a new season of Grow Sessions, and we’re excited to chat with Jordan Isenstadt of Marino Public Relations about the unique challenges of cannabis PR in an episode titled "Building a Buzz - Public Relations in the Cannabis Industry."

Jordan dives into the complexities of federal restrictions and state-by-state legalization, explaining how these factors shape cannabis PR strategies. A major highlight of the episode is MJBizCon, the cannabis industry’s premier event. Jordan shares why this gathering remains crucial for networking and brand building, despite some criticism. He offers actionable tips to stand out, such as launching products ahead of the show and hosting unforgettable events to create buzz.

The conversation also explores the rising importance of influencer marketing, authentic storytelling, and crafting a clear, compelling message to normalize the industry and connect with consumers. Whether you’re a cannabis business looking to grow or just interested in learning more about PR in this unique space, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

About Jordan Isenstadt, Marino Public Relations

Jordan Isenstadt founded Marino’s cannabis strategic communications practice in 2018 and has built it into an industry leading force. A former advisor to the New York State Senate and the New York State Governor’s office, he has led award-winning strategic communications programs for a broad spectrum of clients up and down the cannabis supply chain, as well as ancillaries and non-planting entities. He is a regular contributor in various cannabis and policy media outlets offering dope public relations insights. Additionally, Jordan is an Executive Member of the Cannabis Collective and was named a Cannabis Power Player by Politics NY for the 2nd year in a row. Jordan has been a cannabis aficionado for over 25 years and while he still prefers flower, he does enjoy experimenting with all of the newer routes of administration, including beverages, oral sprays, lozenges, tinctures and powders.

If you have questions, you can reach Jordan at [email protected]

Please visit www.marinopr.com to learn more about Marino Public Relations.

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation on Grow Sessions with Kris Artz, founder of Rhythm of Life Cannabis, as he shares his journey as a cannabis entrepreneur. Discover how he overcame the hurdles of launching a cannabis business amid the COVID-19 pandemic, including the construction of a hybrid greenhouse to bring his dream to life.

Kris opens up about a devastating fire that destroyed his facility just days before planting, forcing him to lay off his team, lose prized genetics, and pivot his business. Through resilience and industry support, he found the strength to rebuild, grow in a partner's facility, and continue his journey despite overwhelming financial and emotional hurdles.

In today's episode we will talk about the lessons Kris learned along the way, including the importance of staying connected within the industry, navigating insurance hurdles, and innovating to stand out in a competitive market. This episode is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the passion required to thrive in the cannabis industry.

About Kris Artz & Rhythm of Life Cannabis

Kristofer Artz Founder and CEO of Rhythm of Life Cannabis grew up in the mountains of Colorado in a small town called Nederland. His love for the outdoors and plants began at a very young age in these mountains, as he has been exploring and working with plants almost his entire life. From gardening in the hills with his mother to garage and house grows with his friends or caring for an 80 ft tall Maple tree he has always been connected to plants.

After his up bringing and returning home from college he landed a job at an organic fertilizing company which excelled his career forward and landed him in the Cannabis industry. He has been in cultivating Cannabis for over 18 years and in the commercial industry for over a decade. From craft to large scale operations Kris has done it all and has simplified how cannabis is cultivated through his own passion for this plant. When he isn’t in the garden you can catch him hiking 4000 footers in New Hampshire and enjoying time at the beach with friends and on the slopes snowboarding.

If you have questions, you can reach Kris Artz at [email protected]

Please visit www.rhythmoflifecannabis.com to learn more about Rhythm of Life Cannabis.

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes. 

In this episode of Grow Sessions Chris Day and Jill Reddish from the GCNC (Global Cannabis Network Collaborative) join us to share their passion for building a stronger, interconnected cannabis industry around the globe. In an episode titled “Global Perspectives: Building Bridges in the Cannabis Industry,” we discuss the power of collaboration and how the GCNC and its members are working together to help solve challenges faced in global cannabis markets.

Join us as we dive into the unique dynamics of cannabis markets around the world—the good, the bad, and the challenging and what we can learn from each other. Today we are reminded that cannabis isn’t new (it’s been around for 3,000 years!) and that what happens in places like Bangkok can ripple across the globe, influencing markets as far away as Peru.

In this episode we get a sneak peek into the recent cannabis conference in Peru, exploring South America’s growing cannabis and hemp scene, and share the excitement for the Cannabis Policy Institute in Las Vegas, which aims to assist businesses and regulators in crafting improved industry policies. 

With inspiring stories of people, companies, and countries shaping the future of cannabis, Chris and Jill show just how connected and exciting this global industry really is. There’s truly never a dull moment – as we all know! 

About Jillian Reddish
Jillian Reddish, Co-Founder, Global Cannabis Network Collective (GCNC) 

Jill Reddish is the co-founder of Project Evolve and the Global Cannabis Network Collective, an elite network for business professionals building and transforming the international cannabis trade. A writer and award-winning communications strategist, her career spans over a decade of communications in higher education and research-focused non-profits and community development, as well as B2B content marketing for the global cannabis industry.

She worked with Marijuana Business Daily on MJBizCon to establish it as the global leader in industry connectivity, resulting in the world's largest B2B cannabis trade show.  Jill launched their global partnership program, two podcasts, and an innovative multimedia site. 

If you have questions, you can reach Jill Reddish at [email protected]

About Chris Day
Chris Day, Co-Founder, Global Cannabis Network Collective (GCNC)

A people-driven leader, Chris Day is the co-founder of the elite multi-national cannabis industry network for C-Suite executives, the Global Cannabis Network Collective. He is widely recognized as one of the world’s foremost experts on global collaboration, trend identification, and business development through partnership for emerging markets in the cannabis industry. 

Chris brings decades of experience in business management and development, building award winning teams and championing global brands through 20+ years of running advertising and communications agencies prior to his entrance into the cannabis industry. 

If you have questions, you can reach Chris Day at [email protected] 

Please visit www.gcnc.global to learn more about the Global Cannabis Network Collaborative.

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Today on Grow Sessions we navigate the complex waters of legal cannabis with a unique perspective with Carl Giannone and Jesse Pitts, Co-Founders of Trade Roots Cannabis in MA. Their journey begins with Jesse's incarceration for cannabis-related offenses—a pivotal moment that would inspire their commitment to transforming the industry through legitimate means. Tune in for an episode titled “Trade Roots: Redefining Cannabis from the Inside Out” as they recount their experiences with your host, Tony Pavlakis.

In an industry marked by over-regulation and ongoing change, their transition from the illicit market to legitimate business provides meaningful perspectives on both the hurdles and possibilities that the industry faces.

Join us as they share their unique perspective on:

• Navigating the transition from illegal to legal cannabis operations
• Building a successful social equity business in a heavily regulated market
• Balancing craft quality with commercial success
• The future landscape of cannabis industry regulation and compliance
• Their vision for Trade Roots and the broader cannabis market

Listen as they share how they're charting a course through uncharted waters, helping define the future of legal cannabis in Massachusetts and beyond.

About Trade Roots Cannabis

Jesse Pitts, Co-Founder/CEO

 After graduating from UMASS Amherst with degrees in Astronomy and Physics,  Mr. Pitts continued his business selling cannabis.  A bit ahead of his time, in 2006 he got arrested and served 9 months of an 18-month sentence at the Plymouth County Correctional Facility, where upon his release, he founded and ran a successful construction company.   In 2012 Jesse co-founded The Center for Alternative Life Medicine - a medical cannabis company that was acquired by New England Treatment Access (NETA).  In 2017 Jesse and his partners founded Trade Roots in his hometown of Wareham-- becoming the State’s first adult use, vertically integrated social equity operator.  Jesse serves on the Board of Directors and is the Company’s CEO.  

Carl Giannone, Co-Founder 

After graduating without distinction from Lafayette College with degrees in Economics & Business, Carl began his career as an equities trader at Trillium Management in 1999.  In 2006 Carl started his own desk, first under Sungard and then T3 Capital Management (2010).  By 2014, his desk employed over 100 traders in two offices deploying myriad strategies across a range of asset classes.  In 2017 he joined Jesse in helping found Trade Roots- Massachusetts first vertically integrated social equity operator in the cannabis industry.  Carl serves as the Board’s Chair, and his daily responsibilities include strategy, business development, marketing and brand--specializing in irreverent LNKD content. 

If you have questions about Trade Roots, please visit their website at www.traderoots.buzz. You can also connect with Jesse at [email protected]
or on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-pitts-4b560199/. If you'd like to connect with Carl, please email him at [email protected] or on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/carlgiannone.

For a video version of Grow Sessions, please visit us on the TSRgrow YouTube Channel. 
 

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes. 

Join us for an exciting new episode of the Grow Sessions, featuring special guest Matthew O'Boyle from VALERE Architects, in an episode titled, "Efficiency by Design: Optimizing Your Grow Room for Maximum Yield." 

This episode explores the common mistakes and pitfalls that growers should avoid when constructing a cannabis cultivation facility. Matthew highlights the crucial importance of collaborating with an architect who has extensive experience in designing optimized grow operations. While inexperienced design choices may seem cost-effective initially, they often lead to higher expenses in the long run due to underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Key insights covered in the episode include:

• The importance of understanding the operational workflows necessary to maintain a clean and safe environment for the plants throughout the cultivation process.
• The benefit of not utilizing every square inch of a facility. Leaving some extra space allows for greater flexibility and scalability as the business grows and needs evolve over time.
• The significant impact an experienced cannabis-focused architect can have on the capital expenses and long-term profitability of the grow operation. Their expertise can help prevent many problems before they even arise.

Whether you're just starting to build your first grow facility or looking to enhance an existing operation, this episode is packed with practical, expert-driven advice. Tune in to learn how to design a successful, efficient, and scalable cannabis cultivation facility that will support the long-term success of your business.

About Matthew O'Boyle, RA, AIA, CEO + Founder
VALERE Architects, Inc.

Matthew has been working in the design field professionally since 2009 after completing an Associate's of Architectural Technology from Springfield Technical Community College. He furthered his education at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst by receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture degree in 2012 and then further with a Master of Architecture degree from Hartford University in 2015.

He has experience working on projects ranging from: light commercial, restaurant and café space, community focused projects, residential, and multi-family housing.  His work focuses on a technical and efficiency-focused design process believing that it leads to the best solution for a client in the Cannabis Industry.  Matthew has a passion for high performance buildings & construction, making each project as sustainable as possible through material selection and design. 

If you have questions for Matthew you can reach him at [email protected] or visit the VALERE Architects website at www.valerearchitects.com. You can also connect with him on Linkedin: Matthew O'Boyle.

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes. 

In this episode of Grow Sessions, we're excited to host Tony Gallo from Sapphire Risk Advisory Group as he delves into essential security procedures and onsite risk assessments, in an episode titled "High Stakes: Security Tips for Cannabis Facilities."

Join us as we learn how a tailored security systems can save you money, safeguard your property, and address common issues in your facility. Other topics will include insights on obtaining cannabis licenses, meeting state and city requirements, importance of strategic camera placement, the integration of AI in security and the critical nature of fire safety and risk assessments. Tony emphasizes the value of doing things right the first time to avoid costly mistakes and regulatory setbacks. From air filtration to GMP and GACP certifications, Tony covers the vital aspects of building a compliant and secure cannabis facility.

Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your existing operations, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert knowledge. Tune in to learn how to protect your investment and ensure the success of your cannabis business!

About Tony Gallo

Considered the “OG of Cannabis Security”, Tony has been in the cannabis industry since 2013 and has worked with over 800 cannabis clients in 37 States and Canada designing their security program from application to operations. Tony has spoken at over 100 cannabis business conferences across the United States and is considered one of the leading security authorities in the State/City application license process, physical security build outs and standard security operating procedures. He is regarded as a leader in high-risk security program designing and has helped open more than 1,000 high-risk businesses in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.  
  
 For over 30 years, he has been a Senior Executive, possessing both strategic and tactical security experience in the multi-unit retail industry with such companies as Sears, Federated Department Stores and EZCorp. Tony received his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from New Jersey City University in Jersey City, NJ and is a published author on high-risk security and safety planning.  
  
Tony is the Managing Partner for Sapphire Risk Advisory Group, which is considered one of the Top Security Firms in the cannabis industry and was recently awarded Consulting Firm of 2023 at The Emjays. Tony was also recognized by High Times Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Cannabis People in 2021. 

About Sapphire Risk:

Sapphire Risk is the oldest national cannabis security consultancy company in the United States. They specialize in helping clients achieve their dream of winning a cannabis business license, building a secure facility, and implementing security training and SOPs to ensure long-term success. ​No matter the space, they can save cannabis businesses time and money while securing their property.​ 

Services include Security Plans for Business Licensing; Security Floor Plan Design Overlays; Secure Facility Build Outs; Risk Assessments; Standard Operating Procedures and Manuals; Employee Security Training; Security Expert Witness Services; and POS Exception Analytics 

If you have questions for Tony you can reach him at [email protected] or visit the Sapphire Risk website at www.sapphirerisk.com.

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