In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, Tommy Truong sits down with Anne Forkutza from BioTrack to unpack New York’s groundbreaking seed-to-sale system rollout and what it means for cannabis cultivators, processors, and retailers. Anne shares critical timelines for integration, explains how unique 16-digit digital ID tags work, and offers practical advice on how businesses can prepare for compliance and avoid costly mistakes. They also dive into the transformative role AI is playing in the cannabis industry—from streamlining workflows and training to elevating marketing and customer service with virtual budtenders. Whether you’re navigating changing regulations or exploring cutting-edge tech to scale your cannabis business, Anne’s insights and BioTrack’s resources provide must-know guidance to set you up for success. Tune in to learn how to leverage technology and team collaboration to thrive in this evolving market.
 
Find out more about BioTrack at:
https://biotrack.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anneforkutza/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/biotrackthc/
 
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
00:13 New York Cannabis Industry Updates
00:45 BioTrack's Seed-to-Sale System Rollout
02:31 Steps for Cannabis Licensees
03:05 Support and Training for BioTrack Users
08:32 Importance of Accurate Inventory Management
17:49 Leveraging AI in the Cannabis Industry
19:36 Practical AI Applications and Personal Experiences
27:44 Future of AI in Cannabis and Final Thoughts
37:35 Conclusion and Contact Information
 
#kayacast #cannabis #tips #dispensaries #business #podcast

In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, Tommy Truong sits down with Dan Serard, partner at Cannabis Creative Group, to dive deep into building a strong cannabis dispensary brand and marketing strategy from the ground up. Dan shares expert insights on when dispensary owners should start thinking about branding—highlighting the importance of beginning early, ideally months before opening day. They explore how to craft a compelling brand identity that goes far beyond just a logo, emphasizing the critical role of messaging, customer experience, and consistency across all touchpoints. 

Listeners learn about foundational marketing essentials such as developing a native e-commerce website, the power of SEO and Google My Business for driving foot traffic, and the strategic use of email, SMS, and social media marketing. Dan breaks down what a successful launch campaign looks like and offers practical advice on balancing customer acquisition and retention efforts post-opening. The conversation also touches on navigating emerging technologies like AI-driven search and the importance of ongoing SEO management for sustained growth.

Whether you’re a new dispensary owner seeking guidance on branding or a seasoned operator wanting to sharpen your marketing approach, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you build a memorable brand, attract loyal customers, and thrive in the ever-evolving cannabis market.
 
Find out more about Cannabis Creative Group at:
https://cannabiscreative.com/
linkedin.com/in/dserard
linkedin.com/company/cannabis-creative-group/
 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:21 Starting Your Marketing Strategy Early
01:57 Developing Your Brand Identity
04:30 Integrating Brand Identity with Retail Experience
05:48 Importance of Consistency in Branding
10:12 Long-term Brand Planning
11:07 Top Tips for Creating a Brand
16:49 Launching Your Marketing Campaign
21:36 Navigating Modern Marketing Challenges
23:31 The Importance of SEO in Business
24:29 Setting Up a Retail Website: Must-Haves and Best Practices
26:25 Navigating Online Ordering and Delivery Systems
28:09 Optimizing Your Website for SEO
31:24 Creating an Effective SEO Strategy
38:04 The Role of PR in a Successful Business Launch
41:39 Driving Traffic and Revenue Post-Launch
45:04 Conclusion and Contact Information
 
#kayacast #cannabis #tips #dispensaries #business #podcast

Running a dispensary isn’t just about selling cannabis — it’s about creating a brand that people trust, love, and recommend. In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, Tommy Truong sits down with Christa Peay from Greenery Spot in Johnson City, NY, to talk about how they built one of the most community-connected dispensaries in the state.

Christa shares:
- How strategic partnerships with local businesses — from coffee shops to yoga studios — drive awareness.
- Ways to normalize cannabis by linking it to everyday life and wellness.
- How to leverage local media, events, and word-of-mouth to build a loyal customer base.
- Real stories of customers whose lives were changed through safe, legal cannabis.

From navigating stigma to collaborating with breweries, sports teams, and farmers, Christa reveals how Greenery Spot keeps momentum in a saturated market by focusing on education, relationships, and authenticity.

If you’re in cannabis retail, community marketing, or just love a great entrepreneurial story, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

📍 Learn more about Greenery Spot: https://www.greeneryspot.com
🎧 Subscribe for more cannabis business insights!

Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Greenery Spot
01:11 Building Community Connections
02:26 Collaborations with Local Businesses
05:35 Normalizing Cannabis Consumption
13:16 Marketing Strategies and Media Presence
21:50 Engaging with Local Events
24:22 Community Events Driving Traffic
25:07 Legal and Safe Cannabis
26:08 Customer Engagement and Partnerships
28:07 Knowledgeable Staff and Product Demos
29:23 Cannabis Industry Challenges
29:55 Personal Cannabis Stories
31:05 Upcoming Events and Collaborations
36:09 Rapid Fire Questions
40:32 Customer Success Stories
42:39 Conclusion and Future Plans

#CannabisBusiness #DispensaryMarketing #CommunityBuilding #KayaCast #GreenerySpot #CannabisEducation #BrandAwareness #WellnessIndustry

In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, Tommy sits down with Haley Glover, a seasoned security expert with over 13 years in the cannabis space, to uncover the costly mistakes dispensary owners make during build-outs. From regulatory nightmares in Minnesota to the importance of backup generators and choosing the right security partner, Haley drops insider knowledge on how to stay compliant, save thousands, and avoid opening delays. If you're starting your first dispensary—or scaling your operation—this is a must-listen for staying ahead of security headaches and regulatory red tape.

🔐 Learn why security should be your FIRST consideration

 💰 Discover hidden costs that could crush your budget

 🚫 Find out which equipment vendors to avoid at all costs

 💬 Bonus: Panic button protocols & cannabis-specific SOPs

Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:38 Importance of Early Security Planning

02:06 Compliance and Regulatory Challenges

05:43 Cost and Budgeting for Security Systems

08:15 Selecting the Right Security Vendor

19:02 Common Mistakes and Best Practices

22:49 Operational Considerations and Training

32:14 Final Tips and Industry Insights

33:19 Conclusion and Farewell

33:53 Budtender Spotlight and Closing Remarks

Find out more about Sapphire Risk at:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sapphirerisk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloverhaley/

 Nominate your Budtender of the Week at https://www.kayapush.com

#kayapush #kayacast #dispensary #cannabis #business

Discover actionable strategies for dispensaries to increase accessory sales from the typical 1.5% of revenue up to 5% or more, with smart stocking tips like prioritizing vape batteries and basic essentials that keep customers coming back. Justin also dives into the challenges and future of the cannabis industry, including thoughts on federal legalization, market regulation, and how dispensaries can survive and thrive amid shifting landscapes.

Whether you're launching a new store, looking to expand your product mix, or aiming to boost profit margins, this candid conversation is packed with insider insights and practical advice to help you scale your cannabis business. Plus, don’t miss details on how dispensaries can get started with a $2,000 consignment package and free consultation with Justin’s team.

Tune in to learn how to unlock accessories as a key revenue driver and get connected with the tools that will elevate your dispensary’s success!

Find out more about BudsFeed at:
https://budsfeed.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dyspensr/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinmichaeljohnson/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/budsfeed/

00:00 Introduction and Initial Connections
00:22 The Vision Behind BudsFeed
01:05 Building the BudsFeed Community
02:54 Challenges and Successes
05:21 Transition to Elevated Accessories
05:56 Strategies for Dispensary Accessories
11:24 Introducing Dispenser: A Wholesale Platform
13:07 Supporting Dispensaries with Consignment
20:22 Data-Driven Decisions for Dispensaries
23:10 Challenges of High-End Dispensaries
23:46 Replenishment Strategies for Dispensaries
24:42 Wholesale and Distribution Insights
25:45 Personalization and Large Orders
29:23 Loyalty Programs and Customer Service
30:13 Innovations in Dispensary Operations
34:40 The Future of Cannabis Legalization
36:06 Economic Realities of the Cannabis Market
38:08 California's Cannabis Market Struggles
41:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

#kayacast #cannabis #tips #dispensaries #business #podcast

In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, Tommy Truong sits down with Scott Prisco, founder of Priscotty, to dive deep into the world of cannabis delivery services. Scott shares invaluable insights on when dispensaries should consider adding delivery — emphasizing the importance of having a solid tech stack, trained staff, and operational control before expanding. They explore the economics behind starting a delivery service, from startup costs to expected revenue uplifts, and discuss the pros and cons of partnering with third-party providers versus running delivery in-house. Scott also sheds light on customer experience management within delivery operations and the evolving cannabis market with a focus on health and wellness products. Whether you’re launching your first store or looking to scale, this episode provides thoughtful guidance to help you strategically grow your cannabis business through delivery. Tune in to learn how to balance risk, optimize resources, and set your dispensary up for long-term success.
 
Find out more about Priscotty at:
https://www.priscotty.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-prisco/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/priscotty/
 
00:00 Introduction to Kaya Cast
00:11 When to Consider Delivery for Your Cannabis Business
03:22 Operational Challenges and Solutions
04:38 Financial Expectations and Costs of Delivery Services
09:23 Third-Party Delivery Providers: Pros and Cons
11:53 Customer Service and Delivery Logistics
18:54 E-commerce and Health-Focused Cannabis Products
25:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
27:10 Budtender Spotlight and Closing Remarks
 
#kayacast #cannabis #tips #dispensaries #business #podcast

In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, Tommy Truong sits down with Max Vansluys from Dialed In Gummies to explore the exciting frontier of minor cannabinoids and the rising popularity of rosin concentrates. Max breaks down key cannabinoids like THCV, CBN, CBG, CBC, and how their unique effects—from focus and appetite suppression to sleep aid—are reshaping consumer experiences beyond traditional THC. They dive into the production advantages of solventless rosin versus distillate, retail economics, and the shifting demographics embracing cleaner, full-spectrum products. Max also shares how Dialed In Gummies educates both budtenders and consumers to demystify cannabinoid science and promote wellness-focused cannabis solutions. Whether you’re a dispensary owner or cannabis professional, learn why minor cannabinoids and rosin-based edibles are opening new markets and opportunities to serve the canna-curious and health-driven consumers. Find out where to get Dialed In Gummies in Colorado, Ohio, and Missouri, and hear why Max’s favorite product is fast becoming a midday staple for focus and digestion. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of cannabis formulations and how your dispensary can dial in to what today’s discerning customers really want.
 
Find out more about Dialed In Gummies at:
https://dialedingummies.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxvansluys/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dialed-in-gummies/
 
00:00 Introduction to Cannabis Microdosing
00:40 Welcome to the Kaya Cast
00:56 Exploring Cannabinoids
05:30 The Rise of Rosin
08:09 Retail Economics of Rosin
12:36 Educating Consumers and Budtenders
16:44 The Future of Cannabis Health Products
34:47 Max's Favorite Products
38:43 Budtender Spotlight and Closing Remarks
 
#kayacast #cannabis #tips #dispensaries #business #podcast

On this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, we sit down with Meilad Rafiei from WeCann, a seasoned cannabis industry expert with roots as a dispensary owner in California since 2014. Meilad shares his unique journey navigating the early days of legal cannabis amid competing with illicit operators, his strategic approach to buying and selling dispensaries, and insights on market timing to maximize business value. We dive deep into what buyers should look for, how to assess operational opportunities, and the importance of clean licensing and financials when preparing to sell. Meilad also unpacks the complexities of cannabis business transactions—including regulatory hurdles, deal pitfalls, and the critical role of experienced brokers and lawyers. 

Whether you’re exploring buying, selling, or scaling your dispensary, this episode offers invaluable lessons for thriving in today’s evolving cannabis market. Plus, discover how WeCann’s full-service consulting supports operators nationwide with licensing, compliance, and brokerage services. Tune in and learn how to make smarter moves in the cannabis business landscape!
 
Find out more about WeCann at:
https://www.wecannca.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/meilad/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wecann/
https://www.wecannca.com/agents/meilad-rafiei/
 
00:00 Celebrating Budtenders: KayaPush Spotlight
00:43 Introduction to Kaya Cast Podcast
00:54 Journey into the Cannabis Industry
03:12 Challenges and Successes in Early Operations
04:05 Navigating the Legal Landscape
05:12 Strategic Business Decisions
07:24 Market Trends and Valuation Insights
08:09 Opportunities in the California Market
11:27 Buying and Selling Cannabis Businesses
19:15 Project Management and Operational Skills
20:59 Ensuring Good Standing for Your Business
21:26 Getting Your Finances in Order
22:01 Working with the Right Professionals
23:09 Dealing with Ownership Restrictions
24:28 The Importance of Exclusivity with Brokers
27:17 Evaluating Your Business for Sale
30:04 Challenges in Cannabis Business Transactions
32:47 Why Deals Fall Through
40:05 Final Thoughts and Resources
 
#kayacast #cannabis #tips #dispensaries #business #podcast