On this episode of the High Functioning Podcast, we’re joined by Marcus Johnson-Smith, co-founder of Kush Groove, who shares the real story of building a purpose-driven brand with staying power.

From a college hustle to a multi-location business, Marcus breaks down the journey step by step, highlighting what too many founders skip: operational clarity, consistency, and customer-first thinking. We dive into the traps of rushing, the myth of competition, and how teaching and mentoring is now a central part of Marcus’s mission as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Tufts.

🎧 You’ll hear:✔️ What it takes to grow something real✔️ The power of culture in retail✔️ What most entrepreneurs miss before launch✔️ How to build slow—and last longer

🚨 Content for 21+ audiences. This episode discusses adult-use business strategy.