In this episode, David Vaillencourt discusses the complexities and controversies of cannabis standards and regulations. From the nuances of representative sampling in cultivation to the critical differences between compliance and quality, David sheds light on the often-overlooked details that define the cannabis industry. He talks about the potential impact of Schedule III reclassification and addresses the challenges of creating consistent standards across states. Tune in to hear about the evolving landscape of cannabis production and safety.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 - Unlocking Cannabis Potential: Representative Sampling Insights
• 00:01:00 - Welcome to How to Flourish in Cannabis with Brian Weber
• 00:01:28 - Meet David Vaillencourt: From Climate Science to Cannabis Standards
• 00:06:34 - Decoding GMP: Good Manufacturing Practices in Cannabis
• 00:09:48 - Why Standards Matter: Ensuring Safety and Quality in Cannabis
• 00:12:20 - Compliance vs. Quality: Raising the Bar in Cannabis Production
• 00:15:10 - Navigating the Challenges of Cannabis Standards and Regulations
• 00:16:30 - Cannabis Warning Symbols: Are They Really Universal?
• 00:19:45 - Compliance and Quality: Differentiating Your Cannabis Business
• 00:24:28 - The Future of Cannabis: Schedule 3 and Industry Evolution
• 00:30:15 - Schedule 3 Reclassification: What It Really Means for Cannabis
• 00:33:55 - Get Involved: Advancing Cannabis Standards and Final Thoughts

Links and Resources:

• David on LinkedIn
• The GMP Collective
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

Brian Weber sits down with Stu Zakim, a seasoned PR professional and advocate, to discuss the challenges and opportunities within New York's evolving cannabis industry. Stu shares his perspective on transitioning from the underground market to legal operations and the story of Happy Munkey's journey from a secretive speakeasy to a legitimate business. The conversation covers the impact of legalization on communities, the importance of strategic public relations, and sheds light on the broader issues facing cannabis entrepreneurs today.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 How Legalization is Changing the Cannabis Landscape
• 00:00:37 Kicking Off: Welcome to How to Flourish in Cannabis
• 00:01:06 Meet Stu Zakim: PR Veteran in Cannabis
• 00:01:35 From Hollywood to Cannabis: Stu's Journey
• 00:04:09 Transition Tales: Moving from Legacy to Legal
• 00:07:08 Happy Munkey’s Evolution: From Underground Speakeasy to Legal Retail
• 00:10:45 Happy Munkey's Strategic Pivot During the Pandemic
• 00:14:00 Overcoming Legal Hurdles: Real Stories from the Cannabis Frontline
• 00:19:39 Mastering PR: Essential Strategies for Cannabis Entrepreneurs
• 00:23:17 Building Trust Through Community Engagement
• 00:27:25 Engaging Your Community: Tips for Effective Media Relations
• 00:31:53 Tapping into New Opportunities: The Future of Cannabis Business
• 00:37:30 Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

Links and Resources:

• Stu Zakim on LinkedIn
• Bridge Strategic Communications
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

Peter Su, a seasoned expert in cannabis banking, discusses what goes on in banking within the legal cannabis industry. Peter also talks about federal and state legal contradictions, the challenges of securing banking services for cannabis businesses, and how banking regulations have evolved over time. Peter gives a look into the operational risks and responsibilities banks face under the Bank Secrecy Act, the misconceptions about cannabis banking, and the gradual acceptance by some financial institutions to service this high-risk industry. Tune in as Brian and Peter discuss both the progress and ongoing challenges in cannabis banking as of May 2024.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 - Unpacking the Risks in Cannabis Banking
• 00:00:49 - How to Flourish in Cannabis: Today's Masterclass
• 00:01:18 - Introducing Peter Su: Veteran of Cannabis Finance
• 00:01:58 - Tracing the Roots: How Cannabis Banking Began
• 00:03:51 - Where Cannabis Banking Stands in 2024
• 00:07:00 - Debunking Myths: Today's Cannabis Banking Reality
• 00:10:49 - Exploring Different Types of Cannabis Financial Services
• 00:14:42 - Strategic Insights: Adapting to the Cannabis Banking Landscape
• 00:18:52 - What Does Schedule III Mean for Cannabis Banking?
• 00:19:38 - The Tug of War: Federal Laws vs. State Initiatives
• 00:22:36 - Essential Banking Services for Cannabis Operators
• 00:25:17 - Navigating Regulatory Hurdles in Cannabis Finance
• 00:28:20 - Banking Benefits for Cannabis Industry Employees
• 00:32:21 - The Realities of Lending in the Cannabis Sector
• 00:37:09 - Wrapping Up: What's Next for Cannabis Banking?

Links and Resources:

• Peter on LinkedIn
• Rolling Stone articles by Peter Su
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

Brian Weber welcomes Tracy LeMarie, Co-Founder & Consultant at TAC CPAs LLC. She shares essential steps for achieving operational profitability in the cannabis industry, providing valuable insights into understanding market trends and pricing strategies, mastering the nuances of direct and indirect costs, and implementing advanced costing techniques. Tracy also discusses the implications of Schedule 3 on cannabis profitability and the importance of making informed decisions about product lines. With her extensive experience and practical advice, this episode offers you the knowledge needed to optimize your cannabis business operations.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 - Kicking Off: Operational Profitability in the Cannabis Industry
• 00:01:17 - Meet Tracy LeMarie: From Traditional CPA to Cannabis Accounting Expert
• 00:03:43 - Demystifying the Cannabis Market: Pricing Dynamics Explained
• 00:07:45 - Cost Control 101: Direct vs. Indirect Costs in Cannabis Operations
• 00:12:01 - Advanced Strategies: Implementing Effective Costing Methodologies
• 00:17:30 - Advanced Costing: Individual Product Analysis
• 00:23:14 - The Impact of Schedule 3: Navigating Cannabis Costing and Profitability
• 00:27:07 - Skew Rationalization: Making Smart Product Line Decisions
• 00:30:45 - Final Thoughts: Key Takeaways and How to Reach Out to Tracy

Links and Resources:

• Tracy LeMarie on LinkedIn
• Evolve/TAC CPAs LLC
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

We’re going right into the heart of cannabis retail challenges with Tim Schmitt, a trailblazer in cannabis supply chain technology. Tim and Brian discuss the critical importance of disciplined inventory management and how powerful data-driven decision-making in the highly competitive cannabis marketplace is. Tim shares his insights and innovative solutions, from optimizing operations with AI-driven forecasts to strategic purchasing practices that ensure dispensaries not only survive but thrive. This masterclass in regulated cannabis offers you a roadmap to profitability, spotlighting the symbiotic relationship between technology and traditional retail wisdom in navigating the complex cannabis industry. Tune in for a conversation that promises to elevate your understanding of cannabis retail, making complex concepts accessible and actionable for anyone looking to make their mark in the cannabis world.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 - Kicking Off: Navigating Success in Cannabis Retail
• 00:01:17 - Unveiling the Tech Wizard: Tim Schmidt’s Journey
• 00:02:53 - Unlocking Prosperity: The Power of Data in Dispensary Management
• 00:05:22 - Data Deep Dive: Transforming Inventory with Insights
• 00:09:39 - Simplifying Success: The Art of Vendor Consolidation
• 00:11:45 - Efficient Ordering: Best Practices for Streamlined Supply
• 00:14:02 - The Vendor Partnership: Building a Cohesive Cannabis Supply Chain
• 00:16:03 - Mastering the Market: Strategies for Smarter Inventory
• 00:18:27 - Analyzing Trends: Using Data to Drive Inventory Decisions
• 00:21:25 - The Blueprint to Profit: Budgeting and Championing Bestsellers
• 00:23:40 - Allocating Resources Wisely: The Art of Budget Management
• 00:27:15 - Cultivating Growth: Leveraging Tech for a Thriving Dispensary
• 00:30:11 - Final Nuggets: Essential Insights for Elevating Your Cannabis Venture

Happy Cabbage Reports referenced:

• Report
• Buyers 2.0 Restock Report: AI-powered Intelligent Restocking

Links and Resources:

• Tim on LinkedIn
• 240 Logistics
• Tim will be speaking at the 4/17 Cannabis Innovation Summit
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

In this episode we are exploring the intricacies of extending credit terms within the highly regulated and capital-intensive cannabis industry. Adam Cavanaugh, President of the Cannabis Credit Association, explains the importance of the pressing issue of trade credit and its impact on cash flow. Adam shares his insights on instilling accountability and transparency, aiming to prevent the escalation of credit problems to epidemic levels. This episode with Adam not only shows us the challenges but also provides strategies we can apply for both brands and dispensaries to safeguard their financial health and foster long-term success in the cannabis market. Tune in as we discuss the complex financial dynamics of the cannabis industry.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 - Welcome to "How to Flourish in Cannabis"
• 00:01:25 - A Deep Dive with Adam Cavanaugh: Shaping the Future of Cannabis Credit
• 00:02:40 - The Cannabis Credit Dilemma: Identifying Key Issues and Solutions
• 00:06:06 - Navigating Legalities and Proactive Strategies in Cannabis Financing
• 00:08:21 - Mastering Trade Credit: Tips for Cannabis Entrepreneurs
• 00:12:34 - The Role of Data and Transparency in Strengthening Cannabis Credit
• 00:16:26 - Building a Supportive Community for Financial Success in Cannabis
• 00:20:57 - Wrapping Up: Insights and How to Connect with Us

Links and Resources:

• LinkedIn
• Cannabiz Credit Association
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

This episode provides a look into the world of cannabis real estate in 2024, presenting vital information for entrepreneurs navigating this complex landscape. Joined by Yarrow Lee Kubrin, a veteran in cannabis real estate, the discussion covers essential topics like zoning, setbacks, utility needs, building requirements, and the critical decision of buying versus leasing. Yarrow's extensive experience offers a masterclass in avoiding common pitfalls and optimizing real estate strategies to flourish in the cannabis industry. Whether you're establishing a new operation or scaling an existing one, this episode sheds light on the foundational elements that can make or break your cannabis venture.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 - Opening Insights: Navigating Cannabis Real Estate in 2024
• 00:00:53 - Dive Deep into Cannabis Real Estate Success
• 00:01:41 - Meet Yarrow Kubrin: Cannabis Real Estate Expert
• 00:03:35 - The Essentials of Zoning & Setbacks for Cannabis
• 00:09:59 - Pre-Licensing: Financial Planning for Cannabis Entrepreneurs
• 00:15:34 - Utility Considerations for Cannabis Facilities
• 00:20:19 - Building Specifications for Cannabis Operations
• 00:29:59 - To Buy or Lease? Making Informed Cannabis Real Estate Decisions
• 00:33:47 - What's Next? Trends Shaping Cannabis Real Estate
• 00:36:10 - Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways & How to Connect

Links and Resources:

• Yarrow on LinkedIn
• Zoned Properties
• High at 9 News
• iBlissLife
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

James Whitcomb is a trailblazer in the cannabis industry and today he is helping us navigate the critical intersection of data analytics and cannabis supply chain management. James takes us on a deep dive into his journey, revealing how leveraging data has become a game-changer in navigating the cannabis industry's unique challenges. From the nuanced impact of insurance on cannabis operations to the pivotal role of data in ensuring the industry's growth and sustainability, James provides unparalleled insights into the mechanics behind the scenes. Listen as we uncover the innovative strategies and data-driven solutions shaping the future of cannabis. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that promises to alter your perception of cannabis, data, and the intricate dance between them.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 - Meet James Whitcomb: A Data Sage in Cannabis
• 00:01:59 - James Whitcomb's Data-Infused Cannabis Odyssey
• 00:03:40 - Unraveling Cannabis: Challenges Meets Data Solutions
• 00:05:40 - How Data Shapes Cannabis Insurance Policies
• 00:06:55 - The Critical Role of Data in Safeguarding Cannabis
• 00:10:33 - Delving Deeper: Data's Impact on Cannabis Insurance
• 00:13:26 - Predicting the Future: Data Trends in Cannabis Insurance
• 00:19:33 - Wrap-Up: Insights & How to Connect with Us

Links and Resources:

• LinkedIn 
• Frontier Risk
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!

How do you succeed in the cannabis industry, where the rules are constantly changing and the competition is fierce? That's the question that Tom Zuber, a leading cannabis lawyer and entrepreneur, answers in this episode of How to Flourish in Cannabis. He reveals his secrets on how to overcome the legal, operational, and branding challenges that cannabis businesses face. He also shares his insights on how to analyze the market, expand strategically, and hire the right legal team to protect your cannabis innovations. Tom also gives a glimpse into the future of the cannabis industry, where he sees new opportunities and trends emerging. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to learn from a cannabis industry expert and pioneer.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 - Welcome to the Cannabis Frontier: Navigating Success with Brian Weber
• 00:02:00 - Meet Tom Zuber: A Pioneer in Cannabis Law
• 00:04:00 - Origin Story: Zuber Lawler's Cannabis Journey
• 00:07:00 - The Pillar of Success: Operational Mastery in Cannabis
• 00:08:00 - Branding and Intellectual Property: Protecting Your Cannabis Brand
• 00:12:00 - Winning with Patents and Trademarks in Cannabis
• 00:15:00 - Expansion Pitfalls: Staying Focused Amidst Growth
• 00:17:00 - Assembling a Dream Team: Operational Talent in Cannabis
• 00:19:00 - State-by-State: Analyzing Cannabis Market Dynamics
• 00:22:00 - The Data-Driven Cannabis Entrepreneur: Leveraging Analytics for Strategy
• 00:24:00 - The Legal Backbone: Why Top-Tier Lawyers Matter in Cannabis
• 00:26:00 - The Attorney's Toolkit: Solving Problems in Cannabis Law
• 00:29:00 - Connect with Tom Zuber: Insights and Farewell

Links and Resources:

• Tom Zuber on LinkedIn
• Zuber Lawler
• Flourish Software
• Brian Weber on LinkedIn

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to How to Flourish in Cannabis? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!