Kaya Cast

Kaya Cast

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Kaya Cast episodes

  • Celebrating 100 (Giveaway)

    GIVEAWAY ALERT!!!

    We hit 100!!! In this special episode, we sit down with Tommy Truong, the host of KayaPush, to celebrate this momentous day.

    Looking back over our journey, this podcast, with over 3,500 downloads and 25,000 YouTube views, was born from a mission to arm entrepreneurs with the insights needed to navigate and flourish in competitive markets. Whether you’re a startup or looking to scale, hearing from over 80 experts has been designed to trim the time and cost on your path to success.

    To kick off, we reflect on the monumental progress within the cannabis industry, particularly the reclassification of cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. This change not only represents a significant societal shift but also offers a tangible financial uplift for businesses within the industry. Tommy weighs in on how these regulatory changes impact operational strategies and open up new opportunities for growth and profitability.

    Plus, in celebration of our 100th episode, don’t miss out on our giveaway of a $100 Amazon gift card! Tune in for details on how to enter, and continue supporting us by following KayaPush on LinkedIn and subscribing to the Kaya Cast on your preferred streaming platform.

    Whether you are part of our long-time listening community or new to the Kaya Cast family, we want to thank you for all the support over the last 2 years, and stay tuned for many, many more episodes to come.

    Find our other episodes at:
    https://www.kayapush.com/podcast

    Find the giveaway here:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/kayapush/

    #KayaPush100
    #giveaway
    #cannabisbusiness 
    #kayacastpodcast

    4 min
  • Reclassification and The Future of Cannabis in the USA

    In this enlightening episode of the KayaCast Podcast, we sit down with Aaron Smith, the CEO and founder of the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA), as we delve into the significant strides and the ongoing challenges in cannabis legislation. With the recent movement to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, the cannabis industry is abuzz with potential changes and impacts. Aaron sheds light on what this reclassification truly means, what it doesn’t, and the various nuances involved, including the future of cannabis on social media, cross-state sales, and pharmaceutical involvement.

    Amidst these regulatory changes, Aaron also addresses the pressing questions from our listeners, ranging from the impact on current cannabis-related incarcerations to the implications for direct online sales and medical marijuana. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on the subsequent steps the NCIA is championing on Capitol Hill, the prospects of the Safe Banking Act, and how the cannabis community can support and participate in these pivotal times.

    Join us for a critical conversation that clears the smoke on cannabis reclassification and offers a glimpse into what’s next for the industry.

    Be sure to subscribe to the KayaCast Podcast to stay updated with the latest insights and strategies from leading cannabis experts and business owners helping you navigate through this burgeoning industry.
     
    Find out more about NCIA at:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-cannabis-industry-association/
    https://thecannabisindustry.org/
    https://www.instagram.com/nationalcannabisindustry/
    https://twitter.com/NCIAorg
    https://www.facebook.com/TheNCIA


    #KayaCastPodcast #CannabisLegislation #CannabisReclassification #NCIA #SafeBankingAct #CapitolHill #CannabisCommunity #MedicalMarijuana #SocialMedia #CrossStateSales #Pharmaceuticals #IndustryInsights #CannabisExperts #BusinessOwners #IndustryUpdates #CriticalConversation #SubscribeNow #StayInformed #KayaCastInsights #CannabisIndustry #IndustryChallenges #FutureOfCannabis #EnlighteningEpisode #LeadingExperts #PivotalTimes #ClearTheSmoke #JoinTheConversation #StayTuned #StayUpdated #CannabisAdvocacy #SupportTheIndustry #StayInformed #StayAhead #KayaCastNation

    17 min
  • Mastering Dispensary Promotions: Learn from Tommy Truong

    In this compelling episode of Kaya Cast Podcast, we sit down with Tommy Truong, founder of KayaPush, to delve into the intricate landscape of employee promotions within the fast-paced environment of cannabis dispensaries. Tommy brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experiences detailing the challenges and opportunities that promotions can present to a growing business.

    Tommy starts off by highlighting the critical nature of promotions—get it right and it could propel your business forward, but get it wrong, and you could face months, if not a year, of setbacks. He shares a cautionary tale from the early days of his business, where a seemingly straightforward promotion caused unexpected ripples across the team, leading to dissatisfaction and ultimately, attrition.

    Throughout the episode, Tommy emphasizes the importance of creating a transparent, merit-based environment where every team member understands how they're being measured and how they can impact the business. He discusses practical strategies such as establishing clear KPIs, maintaining regular communication rhythms, and engaging in one-on-one meetings to not only gauge performance but also to foster individual growth and skill development.

    Beyond the mechanics of promotion, Tommy addresses the inevitable reality of disappointment that can occur even in the fairest of systems. He advises on how to harness this ambition positively, enabling a focus on personal and professional growth that aligns with the business’s needs.

    Whether you're at the helm of a thriving cannabis dispensary or just starting out, this episode offers vital insights into making strategic, fair, and impactful promotion decisions that support both your team's and your business's growth. Tune in to learn how to handle promotions with a balanced approach that encourages transparency, meritocracy, and team cohesion.

    Join us on Kaya Cast Podcast for this enlightening conversation with Tommy Truong, and discover how to navigate the complexities of employee promotions to foster a thriving workplace culture.

    Find out more about KayaPush at:
    https://www.kayapush.com/podcast-episodes
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/kayapush/

    #NavigatingPromotions
    #FairnessAndMerit
    #KayaCastPodcast
    #EmployeePromotions
    #CannabisDispensaries
    #BusinessGrowth

    9 min
  • Tech Disasters and Triumphs: What Every Cannabis Entrepreneur Needs to Know

    Welcome to the KayaCast, your trusted companion for navigating the complexities of cannabis business in the digital age. In today's episode, we're joined by Sarah Kabakoff from MindChef Productions, a seasoned expert with a wealth of experience spanning the food tech and cannabis industries.

    Sarah brings a down-to-earth perspective on the challenges of adopting new technology in business. She shares candid insights into the common mistakes entrepreneurs make when it comes to tech implementation, emphasizing the importance of taking ownership and staying engaged throughout the process.

    From understanding your business's unique needs to assessing the support and scalability of potential tech partners, Sarah offers a roadmap for making informed decisions that set your business up for success.
    So, if you're ready to ditch the tech overwhelm and approach your digital journey with clarity and confidence, join us for this insightful conversation with Sarah Kabakoff. It's real talk for real entrepreneurs, right here on the KayaCast.
     
    Sarah Kabakoff is an experienced business leader who has helped to launch thousands of restaurants and dispensaries in the US. Working for notable companies like Aloha, Toast, and Dutchie, Sarah has fostered an environment for growth and knowledge-sharing in the cannabis industry. 
     
    Find out more about MindChef Productions at:
    https://mindchefproductions.com/
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kabakoff-45a516102/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindchef-productions/
    https://www.youtube.com/@MindChefProductions

    Like what you're listening to? Subscribe to our Youtube channel and download at Podcasts on all streaming platforms!

    #cannabis #dispensary #cannabisindustry #retail #techstack #technology #AI #kayacast

    42 min
  • Selecting your Business Partner: Advice from a Cannabis CEO

    🌱 Welcome to KayaCast, the ultimate resource for dispensaries looking to reach new heights in the ever-evolving cannabis market. Today, we're thrilled to present an enlightening conversation with Tommy Truong, co-founder of KayaPush, a leading CRM and workforce management solutions provider in the cannabis industry. 

    Running a successful cannabis business is a formidable challenge, with only a fraction ever hitting major financial milestones. In this episode, Tommy Truong sheds light on the pivotal role that the right business partners play in overcoming these odds. Join us as we dissect crucial topics you need to ask before entering into a business partnership, like:

    Financial Positions & Hardships: Learn how Tommy's journey began with a year of zero salaries and 99 cent pizzas, illustrating the importance of being financially aligned with your partners. Could you endure the lean years together?

    Drive to Win: Tommy reflects on a past venture in accounting and the crucial lesson he learned about shared commitment levels. What does it mean to be truly all-in, and why is equal dedication from each partner non-negotiable for success?

    Navigating Disagreement & Decision-Making: Embrace conflict as a natural and beneficial part of the business process. Tommy shares the frameworks that have guided his teams through challenging decisions – from adopting a 'never sell' mentality to committing fully to collective decisions, even in dissent.

    🎧 Tune in for an episode packed with actionable advice, hard-earned wisdom, and the strategic mindset required to build a thriving cannabis business. Whether you're at the brink of partnership or scaling to new peaks, Tommy's insights will arm you with the tools to evaluate potential partners and forge a path to success.

    Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review if you find value in our content. Your support helps us grow and bring more incredible insights your way!

    #CannabisCommunity #CannabisBusiness #Partnerships #GrowthMindset #KayaCast
     
     
    Find out more about KayaPush at:
    https://www.kayapush.com/podcast
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/kayapush/?originalSubdomain=ca
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-truong/


     
    #CannabisIndustry #CannabisEntrepreneur #CannabisAdvice #BusinessPartners #FinancialAlignment #SharedCommitment #ConflictResolution #DecisionMaking #StrategicMindset #ScalingSuccess #KayaPush #CRM #WorkforceManagement #CannabisSolutions #CannabisExperts #Entrepreneurship #Podcast #BusinessInsights #CannabisPodcast #BusinessSuccess #GrowWithKaya #DispensaryResources #CannabisMarket #NewHeights #EnlighteningConversation #HardEarnedWisdom #ActionableAdvice #SupportSmallBusiness #SubscribeAndReview

    11 min
  • From Metrics to Millions: Unlocking Profitability with Naomi Granger (NACAT Pros)

    *Want to budget better? Try this free template! https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/xY8juBT3zNkeFEpO3zBT

    *Looking to ace your accounting interview? Here are some practice questions: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/ZkoaYYivhC8LO3d23Zer

    Join us on Kaya Cast for an enlightening episode with Naomi Granger of NACAT Pros, where we delve into exactly what every business should consider before expanding. As an experienced accountant in the cannabis industry, Naomi shares invaluable insights into the operational metrics that drive profitability.

    Discover why it's crucial for business owners to understand their operations inside out before expecting profitability from their accounting professionals. Naomi explains how factors such as inventory management, staff training, customer engagement, and marketing campaigns directly impact a business's bottom line.

    Learn about the significance of tracking KPIs like average ticket price per customer, units per transaction, attachment rates, and customer preferences in different regions. Naomi emphasizes the importance of aligning inventory assortments with customer demands to optimize sales and reduce costs associated with carrying the wrong inventory.

    But it doesn't stop there! Naomi sheds light on the hidden costs retailers often overlook, such as employee turnover and training expenses. She emphasizes the significance of not just hard KPIs but also soft KPIs, which can significantly impact a business's financial health.

    Tune in to Kaya Cast for an eye-opening discussion that will equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and drive your business towards sustainable growth and profitability. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain actionable insights from a seasoned industry expert!

    Follow Naomi Granger and NACAT Pros for more valuable tips and updates!

    Find out more about NACAT Pros here:
    https://nacatpros.org/
    https://www.instagram.com/nacatpros/
    https://www.facebook.com/Nacatpros
    https://twitter.com/NacatPros
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/nacatpros/

    #NACATPros
    #NACAT
    #Dispensary
    #Cannabis
    #Cannabisindustry
    #Tax
    #Accounting

    37 min
  • From STIIIZY to Cookies: Running a Winning Dispensary in 2024

    Welcome to the Kaya Cast Podcast! In this episode, we're delving deep into the world of cannabis entrepreneurship with Mike Wilson, the esteemed CEO and founder of Temeka Group. 

    With over 600 dispensary locations under their belt and a track record of launching successful stores for renowned brands like STIIIZY and Cookies, Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.

    Join us as Mike shares invaluable insights on choosing the perfect location for your dispensary business. From neighborhood-focused spots to bustling tourist destinations like Times Square, Mike breaks down the key factors to consider when scouting for that ideal storefront. Discover how to prioritize customer retention over one-time tourist traffic and why investing in a neighborhood market could be the smartest move for long-term success.

    But that's not all – Mike dives into the nitty-gritty details of building out your store layout, from ensuring ADA compliance to navigating unexpected expenses like HVAC systems. With Mike's guidance, you'll learn how to approach site selection with eyes wide open, avoiding costly surprises and maximizing your return on investment.

    Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just dipping your toes into the cannabis industry, this episode is packed with actionable advice that could save you hundreds of thousands of dollars. Tune in now and let Mike Wilson's expertise guide you on your journey to dispensary success!

    To learn more about Temeka Group and stay updated on their latest ventures, be sure to follow them on social media:
    - Instagram: @temekagroup
    - Twitter: @temekagroup
    - Facebook: Temeka Group
    And visit their website at temekagroup.com for more information!

    Find out more about Temeka at:
    https://www.temekagroup.com/cannabis-industry/
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-wilson-1107a960/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/temekagroup/


    #DispensarySuccess
    #LocationMatters
    #CannabisEntrepreneurship
    #SmartSiteSelection
    #NeighborhoodVsTourist
    #SaveOnExpenses
    #CustomerRetention
    #ROIFormula
    #DispensaryTips
    #ProfitableLayout
    #TemekaGroup
    #KayaCast
    #KayaPush

    40 min
  • Building a Cannabis Coalition: How and Why w/ Gahrey Ovalle from LICC

    Join us on a dynamic journey through entrepreneurship and cannabis coalition leadership with our special guest, Gahrey Ovalle, President of the Long Island Cannabis Coalition (LICC). From his successful ten-year stint in New York's construction industry to tackling the complexities of cannabis retail in Long Island, Gahrey's story is a compelling narrative of growth, learning, and community leadership. 

    In today’s episode, Gahrey dives deep into the origins of his business path, sharing invaluable lessons from his earliest entrepreneurial ventures. He reveals the significance of recognizing and learning from mistakes, the importance of seeking guidance from mentors, and the pivotal moments that led him to shift from a 'how' to a 'who' focused problem-solving strategy.

    As we explore the cannabis landscape of Long Island, Gahrey paints a picture of the challenges faced due to the gap between municipal leadership and their constituents. With nearly 90% of municipalities opting out of cannabis retail despite a majority desiring access, Gahrey's insights offer a unique look at the ongoing battle for cannabis acceptance and the steps the LICC is taking to bridge this divide.

    Discover how Gahrey and the LICC navigated these hurdles, the keys to their success, and what you, as members of the cannabis business community, can do to aid the push for cannabis retail and broader acceptance across communities.

    Don't miss Gahrey's profound observations on hiring the right team members, forming strategic partnerships, and the essential traits needed to lead and innovate within an evolving industry.

    In this heartfelt conversation, learn how the Long Island Cannabis Coalition is making waves by uniting and educating the community and how you too can join their mission.

    👉 Listen to this episode for an inspiring masterclass on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the continuous fight for cannabis progression in Long Island.

    ---

    Join us on Kaya Cast where we spark new ideas, foster growth, and ignite the path to success for your dispensary business.

    🎧 Tune in, learn, and cultivate your cannabis journey with us! 🌿

    ---

    Remember to subscribe to our podcast if you love the content, and stay tuned for more episodes on harnessing the power of cannabis for business growth!
     
     
    Find out more about LICC at:
    https://longislandcc.org/
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/long-island-cannabis-coalition-493149285/
    https://www.instagram.com/longislandccorg/
    https://twitter.com/longislandccorg?s=21
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/gahreyovalle/

     
    #KayaCast#EntrepreneurJourney#cannabisindustry #CannabisCoalition
    #buildingbridges #cannabisindustry #communityleadership  
    #CannabisRetail#LongIslandCannabis#MunicipalLeadership#CannabisAcceptance#PushForProgress#TeamBuilding#StrategicPartnerships#Innovation#CannabisCommunity#CannabisEducation#InspiringLeadership#DispensaryBusiness#CultivateYourJourney
    #CannabisGrowth#RateAndReview

    24 min
  • Diversify Your Dispensary: Key Strategies from Mosaic

    Welcome back to another information-packed episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, the go-to resource for cannabis dispensaries looking to make their mark in the industry. In this week’s episode, we’re excited to sit down with Jack Blaeser, a thought leader and innovator from Mosaic, a company renowned for its groundbreaking approach to cannabis business solutions.

    We kick off the episode with a warm welcome to Jack and a quick introduction to the mission and vision of Mosaic. Discover how Mosaic is changing the game for dispensaries through cutting-edge technology and customer-centered service design.

    Jack then takes us through the journey of how Mosaic started, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs they faced in the burgeoning cannabis market. He shares invaluable insights on what it really takes to build a successful cannabis brand from the ground up.

    For those hungry for actionable advice, Jack provides an array of tips and tactics that you can implement right away. From optimizing your product inventory to navigating complex regulations, Jack’s expertise shines through in his practical recommendations.

    We also explore the future of cannabis retail, with Jack offering his predictions on upcoming trends and the direction the market is headed. Plus, don't miss out on our lightning round where Jack tackles the most common misconceptions about scaling in the cannabis industry.

    Finally, we wrap up the episode with Jack's parting wisdom for new and established dispensaries looking to make a significant impact in their community.

    So, whether you’re a startup dispensary or an established player in the cannabis space, this episode with Jack from Mosaic is packed with knowledge bombs that will help you grow your business and stay ahead of the curve. Tune in, ignite growth, and transform your cannabis dispensary with the insights from today's KayaCast episode!

    Remember to subscribe and follow the Kaya Cast Podcast for more weekly insights, and don't forget to check out the show notes for links to Mosaic’s resources and the strategies discussed in today’s show. Keep growing, and stay high on knowledge!
     
    Jack Blaeser is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Mosaic.green, a cannabis-focused investment platform that connects investors with vetted companies. Jack has been a leader in the cannabis industry for many years, and is a well-respected authority on cannabis investments. He has a deep understanding of the industry and a knack for helping investors make the most of their investments. As a podcast guest, Jack is a valuable resource for understanding the nuances of investing in cannabis business. His experience and insight make him an ideal guest for any cannabis business podcast.
     
    Find out more about Mosiac  at:
    https://mosaic.green/
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackblaeser/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/mosaic-green/
    https://www.instagram.com/mosaic.green/?igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg%3D%3D
     
    #InnovativeGrowthStrategies #MosaicMindset #CannabisBusinessSolutions#thoughtleadership #CustomerCenteredDesign#GroundbreakingTechnology#BuildingSuccessfulBrands#ActionableAdvice#NavigatingRegulations#FutureOfCannabisRetail#ScalingMisconceptions#CommunityImpact#TransformYourDispensary#StayHighOnKnowledge#KayaCastInsights

    41 min
  • Mastering Cannabis Business with Tech Guru Eric Schlissel

    Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, where we dive deep into the minds of cannabis industry leaders to bring you invaluable insights for your dispensary's growth and success. This week, your host Tommy sits down with Eric Schlissel, the tech-savvy entrepreneur and founder of Cure8, a company that empowers cannabis businesses with top-notch IT solutions.

    Here's what we cover in today's episode: 

    🌱 Morning Rituals:
    Kick-off your day with inspiration from Eric's morning routine. He shares how he balances family time, technology check-ins, and a mindful walk with his furry friend to set his focus for the day. Could his tranquil transitions from home to work by the river be the secret to his clear-headed approach to business?

    📅 List-Driven Leadership:
    Dive into the organizational mind as Eric reveals the importance of lists, email inboxes, and pre-emptive planning. Learn how methodically looking three days ahead helps him manage Cure8 and maintain strategic focus amidst the operational whirlwinds.

    🚀 Journey of an Entrepreneur:
    Trace Eric's path from contract work to carving out his niche in the tech support world. His hustle and hands-on approach ultimately led him to combine his passions for weed, tech, and entrepreneurship, birthing the company we know as Cure8.

    🇨🇦 Canada's Crucible:
    Navigating the international waters, Eric talks about Cure8's formative period in Canada during federal legalization. The significant differences between the US and Canadian markets offer an unexpected lens on the future of cannabis businesses stateside.

    🗽 New Market Nuances:
    Disagreeing with the common forecast on the New York market's potential, Eric offers a candid perspective on the messy reality of emerging states and the challenges new dispensary owners will face.

    📊 Knowing Your Numbers:
    Get schooled on the financial footholds and pitfalls of launching a cannabis dispensary. Eric stresses the importance of understanding your expenses, the nuances of inventory management, payroll, and the crucial decision of initial hires.

    Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned dispensary owner looking to refine your business acumen, this episode is packed with strategic insights and operational wisdom. Get ready for a session that's as informative as it is infused with real-world experience.🎙️💼🌿

    #KayaCastPodcast #CannabisBusiness #EricSchlissel #Cure8 #DispensaryGrowth #Entrepreneurship #CannabisTech #BusinessInsights
     

     
    Find out more about Cure8 at:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericschlissel/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/cure8-tech/
    https://forteops.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/cure8.tech/
    https://www.youtube.com/@CuratedCannabisConversations

    #MorningRituals #FamilyTime #TechnologyCheckIn #MindfulWalk #TranquilTransitions #ClearHeadedApproach #OrganizationalMind #Lists #EmailInbox #PreemptivePlanning #JourneyOfAnEntrepreneur #Hustle #HandsOnApproach #WeedTech #FederalLegalization #USvsCanada #NewMarketNuances #NewYorkMarket #FinancialFootholds #InventoryManagement #Payroll #InitialHires #BusinessAcumen #RealWorldExperience #CannabisIndustry #StrategicInsights #OperationalWisdom

    38 min

About Kaya Cast

From the publisher's feed

Dive into Kaya Cast each week for candid conversations with the visionaries shaping the cannabis landscape. We sit down with industry trailblazers to uncover their hard-earned insights and incredible…