In Episode 3 of META This!, host David sits down with Jason Fader—senior game developer and CEO of Iocaine Studios—for a deep dive into the Metaverse, its evolving platforms, and the technologies driving its growth. They unpack how platforms like Roblox and VRChat are building digital communities, the future of cross-platform NFTs, and how generative AI is revolutionizing content creation, game development, and user experience design. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, brand strategist, or curious creative, this episode reveals how close we are to designing entire digital worlds through natural language and AI.

In Episode 4 of POTENT, hosts Wendy Heimann and Bryan Bergman talk with Maha Haq, a leading cannabis strategist and marketing expert, about the expanding role of cannabis in experiential spaces. From lounges in West Hollywood to events at the Oakland Coliseum, Maha shares how brands are navigating regulation, creating community, and leveraging entertainment platforms like Twitch and Discord to reach consumers in new ways. The episode explores the shifting landscape of cannabis marketing, consumption events, social equity, and the broader movement to integrate cannabis into traditional retail, hospitality, and entertainment environments.

In Episode 2 of META This!, host Stefan Guttensohn welcomes Will Wong—serial entrepreneur and general partner at DAP Capital—to break down the core concepts shaping the next evolution of the internet: Web3, blockchain, NFTs, and the metaverse. Together, they explore decentralization, digital identity, immersive experiences, and how creators, brands, and users are navigating new opportunities and responsibilities in this rapidly shifting landscape. From NFT art valuation and avatar concerts to smart contracts and gamification, this episode lays the groundwork for understanding the legal, economic, and cultural implications of life in Web3.

In Part 1 of this two-part episode of POTENT, Bryan Bergman and Wendy Heimann speak with Adam Spiker, partner at Spiker Rendon Consulting and a third-generation political consultant specializing in cannabis regulatory advocacy.

They unpack the disconnect between state and local cannabis licensing, explain why many California cities still resist implementing Prop 64, and explore how stigma, bureaucracy, and political caution continue to block access and growth in the cannabis industry. Spiker shares insider insights on navigating local government, educating elected officials, and why true progress is slow—but possible.

If you’re in cannabis, immersive entertainment, or location-based development, this episode sheds light on how to build coalitions and advocate for responsible cannabis policy.

🎙️ Guest: Adam Spiker, Spiker Rendon Consulting
🌐 spikerrendon.com

In this follow-up to Part 1, POTENT hosts Bryan Bergman, Wendy Heimann, and Nick Rosenberg continue their compelling conversation with Adam Spiker of Spiker Rendon Consulting.

This episode dives into the local-level dynamics of cannabis legalization and how communities, regulators, and the entertainment industry can work together to shape a more functional and inclusive cannabis landscape. Adam discusses the roadblocks that still plague California’s regulated market, the power of storytelling to de-stigmatize cannabis, and how immersive experiences and smart coalition-building can help move the needle.

They also discuss:

• Why cities that embrace legalization rarely regret it
• The broken cannabis supply chain—and how it compares to other industries
• Ballot initiatives vs. ordinances: which is more effective?
• How creatives and non-plant-touching businesses can be powerful allies in legalization
• What opportunities still exist for newcomers entering the industry today

If you're a policymaker, creative entrepreneur, cannabis advocate, or just curious about how change actually happens, this episode is a must.

🎙️ Guest: Adam Spiker, Spiker Rendon Consulting
🌐 spikerrendon.com

In the first episode of Meta This!—a new series from Nolan Heimann’s LOOK.legal podcast—partner David Schnider is joined by Justin Hochberg, CEO of Virtual Brand Group and one of the leading voices in metaverse brand strategy.

They dive into what the metaverse actually is (and isn’t), how platforms like Roblox and Fortnite are already shaping culture and commerce, and why decentralization, IP ownership, and user-built experiences are redefining how brands connect with audiences. Hochberg shares behind-the-scenes insights from launching Forever 21 and Barbie into Roblox, and breaks down why challenger brands have a golden opportunity to leap ahead while big players hesitate.

From niche subcultures and immersive entertainment to brand protection and digital ownership, this episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the intersection of law, innovation, and the future of digital engagement.

🔗 Learn more about Justin and Virtual Brand Group at virtualbrandgroup.com

In Part 1 of this two-part episode, attorneys Bryan Bergman, Wendy Heimann-Nunes, and Nick Rosenberg of Nolan Heimann LLP sit down with cannabis industry trailblazer Jackie Subeck, founder of Hey Jackpot! Together, they explore the evolving relationship between cannabis consumption and out-of-home entertainment—from licensing lounges in West Hollywood to the complexities of throwing cannabis-friendly events in California.

Jackie shares her personal journey from music to marijuana, dives into policy, advocacy, and regulations, and unpacks how social justice, tourism, and immersive experiences are shaping the future of cannabis events. Whether you're curious about cannabis event licenses or how to build compliant spaces for consumption, this episode sets the stage.

👉 Stay tuned for Part 2, where the crew tackles hypotheticals and common cannabis misconceptions.

In this follow-up to Part 1, Bryan Bergman, Wendy Heimann-Nunes, and Nick Rosenberg continue their conversation with cannabis consultant and advocate Jackie Subeck of Hey Jackpot! The team explores practical, hypothetical scenarios that producers of immersive and out-of-home entertainment might face when incorporating cannabis into their events — from VIP ticket structures and licensing workarounds to building strategic partnerships and brand-aligned experiences.

Jackie offers insight into how cannabis consumption events can create value without triggering compliance nightmares, why fear is often rooted in misinformation, and how California’s heavy regulations may actually make cannabis events some of the safest, most controlled environments in entertainment.

If you’re in hospitality, entertainment, or brand strategy — and you're curious about the intersection of law, cannabis, and immersive experiences — this episode is packed with practical advice and future-forward thinking.

👉 Bonus: The team tackles common fears brands face and how overregulation might be the unexpected key to consumer trust.

Attorney's Bryan Bergman and Wendy Heimann tee-up their new podcast exploring the opportunities and challenges emerging at the intersection of Cannabis and out-of-home immersive experiences. Bryan has served the burgeoning cannabis industry, state-by-state, where he has developed an unmatched legal expertise. Bryan speaks regularly on industry-related topics and educates operators and other professionals. Wendy is the force behind Nolan Heimann's reputation for being the premiere law practice serving the location based and immersive entertainment industry worldwide. Her entire 30-year career has been solely dedicated to this unique vertical. Get a taste for whats to come when you listen to future Potent Episodes.