The Green Repeal - A Guide to Cannabis Marketing & Advertising

There's a cannabinoid revolution happening right now, and more people are reaping the rewards and health benefits of technology, innovation, and science. And we're thrilled to be joined by a true pioneer in the cannabis industry, Roy Lipski. Roy is the founder of Bud Love, a "cocktail mixer" designed to complement cannabis experiences. He's led growing technology companies based on cutting-edge science for more than 20 years. These include Creo, a biotechnology company that produces novel cannabinoids using, believe it or not, fermentation. In this episode, you'll learn why Roy is all-in on CBG (the mother cannabinoid) and why it was such a massive milestone to be able to produce on a large scale. Roy talks about Bud Love's unique value propositions, the shocking results of their blind tests of CBG and THC drinks, and what the future holds for producing cannabinoids at scale with purity and consistency without THC and cannabis. KEY TAKEAWAYS What makes CBG different from other cannabis compounds. How Bud Love products complement cannabis and acts like a cocktail mix, counteracting the undesirable effects of THC. What Bud Love is doing to educate consumers about their unique products. How to get the most out of Bud Love. Why Roy believes cannabis is basically legal already. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/63 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

What does it really mean to be a social equity business? How can operators in the cannabis space provide access and opportunities to people affected negatively by the war on drugs and give back to their communities in ways that make a real difference? To answer these questions, we're talking to Tamika Samson and Beth Waterfall. Tamika is the CEO of KushKart, Beth is the CEO of Beth Waterfall Creative, and the Chief Marketing Officer at KushKart. Tamika is one of Beth's clients, and her company is the first majority women-owned social equity cannabis delivery business in Massachusetts. Beth has over 15 years of experience amplifying brands through marketing, communications, and strategic business development and has been uniquely focused on bringing her expertise to the cannabis industry since 2015. In this episode, Beth and Tamika share how they've built not just an incredible business, but a company that really does give back. You'll learn all about social equity licensing, Beth's unique work as a marketer and educator in the cannabis space, and how she helps brands like Tamika's grow thoughtfully and meaningfully while empowering historically underserved people. KEY TAKEAWAYS How Tamika became a social equity license holder and what this process looks like. How Beth joined KushKart as its Chief Marketing Officer–and how she chooses the clients she works with. Why Beth says that attending NECANN changed her life–and what inspired her to launch her educational nonprofit, ELEVATE Northeast. What it means to be a responsible member of the cannabis community. What KushKart is working on as they gear up to become Cape Cod's only cannabis delivery provider. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/62 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

There's a greater appetite for cannabis events than ever before–and today's guest is doing some amazing stuff to create safe, fun, and upscale opportunities and experiences for people who want to partake!  We're talking to Mark Rafailovich. Mark is the founder and owner of Spleaf, which he launched by selling homemade THC brownies when he was a freshman at Brooklyn College, before turning it into a full-fledged business.  These days, Mark is all-in on gourmet edibles and creating special experiences. He's bringing people together so they can enjoy great products like his in amazing environments, and to normalize and de-stigmatize cannabis use in common, everyday settings.  In today's conversation, we talk to Mark about his journey from the former Soviet Union to entrepreneurship in New York City, how he creates a wide array of highly specialized cannabis products and presents them at complementary events, and  how the audience for cannabis (and what they want) is rapidly changing.  KEY TAKEAWAYS How cannabis can serve as an alternative to alcohol (and why it isn't a gateway drug). How Mark started Spleaf in college, then used his knowledge from film school and the restaurant world to create gorgeously documented products and truly unique cannabis products. How cannabis beverages can function as an analogue to alcohol–and the issues making it difficult to serve these products in many cities. How Mark aims to create a pop-up experience vibe at his events and not just a shopping event. Why Mark thinks we'll see federal legalization no sooner than 2027. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/61 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

Running a successful event of any kind isn't easy. And running a successful event in the cannabis space isn't any easier. But that's exactly what Marc Shepard is doing, and he's helping local communities and industries to thrive and grow. Marc is the founder of NECANN–the world's largest B2B cannabis convention–as well as a member of the MassCann/NORML and Mass Grower Advocacy Council. Over the course of 20 years, he's produced and executed cannabis events all over New England, advocated tirelessly for cannabis legalization across a ton of outlets, and is a massive Silver Age Marvel nerd. In fact, he's also the owner and founder of the Salty Comics Corp. In this conversation, you'll hear the inside story of how NECANN started and how it's expanded across a number of states and markets. You'll also hear all about NECANN's upcoming High LifeStyle Show, which will be their first-ever consumer event, and how you can make plans to attend. KEY TAKEAWAYS What NECANN's mission is and how they became an alternative to a showcase of major brands by helping local businesses. Why making the events affordable for businesses and attendees is such a high priority. The reasons why NECANN isn't trying to compete with the largest conferences, and instead focuses on doing what those events can't do. How the NECANN Cup, which celebrates local growers, is judged and how they select their judges. What Marc has planned for the NECANN High LifeStyle show coming up on Oct 7-9th. Why social justice and expungement has become a touchy topic on the way to legalization–and what needs to happen to get the best results in the long-term. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/60 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

While some cultivators might focus on yield or volume, Malek's Premium Cannabis is all about passion over profit with a flavor-first approach. And joining us today to explain why is Malek's CMO and Head of Marketing Katherine Wolf. Katherine is a self-confessed branding nerd and a published writer with a passion for helping cannabis companies grow and thrive. She advocates for women in cannabis leadership and safe access to cannabis education and products. She has been published in media outlets such as the Northwest Leaf, MJ Brand Insights, and Skunk Magazine. In our conversation, you'll learn how Malek's Premium is always pheno-hunting to create new strains and how sticking to limited runs, and small batches helps cultivate the finest flower. You'll also hear how they use NFTs in their marketing strategy with the community they've built and how they generate a buzz with new strains using social media. KEY TAKEAWAYS Why Malek's Premium Cannabis focuses on small batch cannabis products with limited runs of 8 to 10 lights per strain. The sense of community that Malek's has created and how they generate excitement using customer feedback when selecting the strains for new batch consumption. How Malek's interest in seed breeding became the foundation of their flavor-first guiding philosophy. The obstacles that still exist when using social media or Instagram as a marketing tool to push customers to your website. How Malek's uses NFTs in their marketing strategy and as a loyalty reward tool. Why Katherine believes destigmatizing cannabis needs to happen before federal legalization.  Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/59 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

If you've been following the podcast for a while, you've undoubtedly heard us ask our guests: "When do you think we'll see full federal legalization?" We've gotten all kinds of answers, but most of us are making educated guesses at best. To get more of an insider's perspective, we're thrilled to be talking to Jarrod Loadholt. He's a partner at Ice Miller LLP's cannabis group, where he specializes in cannabis law. Previously, he was the head of Credit Karma's Washington D.C. office, and before that, he co-founded a full-service public affairs firm with a focus on government relations, public affairs, strategic communications, and electoral campaigns. This makes him more than qualified to discuss this episode's topic: federal cannabis legalization in the United States. In our conversation, we dig into why cannabis isn't a huge legislative priority at the federal level right now despite massive support, the incremental changes that could help the industry right now, and what the SAFE Act is–and how you can help get it passed. KEY TAKEAWAYS Why the coming midterms will give us a much clearer picture of what's to come for cannabis. What makes the cannabis industry so bad at advocating for itself in Washington. Why the SAFE Act has taken way too long to pass–and why the Cannabis Administration Opportunity Act (CAOA) is not happening. Why the Biden administration has yet to embrace mass clemency. How crypto can play a role in cannabis banking despite being a highly speculative, high-risk field. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/58 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

Every brand has a story, but few have a combination of family recipe, story, and legacy quite like Dr. Norm's. Dr. Norm was a real person–a well respected M.D. His wife, Audrey, was a professional pharmacist and beloved baker. Their children started a traditional cookie company to honor their mother, and it's since become one of California's best selling cannabis cookie and brownie brands. Today's guest is none other than one of Dr. Norm's son and a co-founder of the company, Jeff Koz. We met at MJ Unpacked, and we're thrilled to have him on the podcast to share the story of his brand and his unique experiences. In this episode, you'll find out how Jeff and his sister broke into the cannabis industry, how Jeff and his sister Roberta honed their product and scaled their business, and the innovations shaping the future of the edibles space. KEY TAKEAWAYS How Dr. Norm's kids launched a traditional baking company to honor their parents–and what led them to take a leap into cannabis edibles. How Jeff and his sister Roberta learned how to get their flavors and dosages just right with their edibles. The challenges of expanding cannabis brands across state lines. What Dr. Norm's is doing to tell an authentic story with their brand while exploring activations, lifestyle marketing, and other outlets. Why Jeff thinks we're still three years away from federal legalization. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/57 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

We've spoken to many entrepreneurs and business leaders in the cannabis industry, and we've noticed one overarching theme: everyone is very new and still figuring it out as they go. Even in the most mature markets, things are constantly changing, and new categories are emerging all the time. Today's guest, Bohb Blair, is relatively new to the industry but has a proven knack for reinvention. He's the Chief Marketing Officer at Jones Soda–one of the very first craft soda brands to make a splash over two decades ago. These days, Jones is making a name for themselves with Mary Jones Cannabis, their new cannabis-infused beverage and edibles brand, and Bohb is their Chief Brand Officer. Before joining Jones Soda, he spent over 20 years at marketing agencies, including Starcom, and he's won countless awards for clients, including Pringles, Budweiser, and Airbnb–to name just a few. In this conversation, Bohb shares how he's launched new products and brands while reinventing himself along the way, what he's doing to help take Jones into a new category while retaining brand loyalty, and the unique opportunities that bigger brands have right now to enter this industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Why Jones Soda decided to expand into the cannabis beverage and edibles spaces. The two things that have so many people excited about the cannabis beverage space right now. What Mary Jones Cannabis is doing to build a new, savvy, and age-appropriate community around the brand. How federal legalization, if and when it happens, will change the legality of products across states and require brands to rethink their portfolios. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/56 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

With so many new markets coming online in the next few years, there are more people than ever before looking for help with permitting, licensing, and everything else that comes with launching a business in a highly regulated industry. When they need that help, they turn to people like today's guest, Dr. Sherry Boodram. She's the CEO and co-founder of CannDelta–a regulatory and scientific consulting company that helps clients navigate both the cannabis and psychedelic industries. Dr. Boodram and her team provide regulatory compliance advice to operate in the legal Canadian markets, and they also provide support to international jurisdictions, including the U.S.  Before launching CannDelta, she was actually a part of the Canadian federal government, serving as Health Canada's Medical Cannabis and Controlled Substances Programs' Senior Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement Officer. She holds a Ph.D in Chemistry, an honorary B.S. in Biological Chemistry, and certificates in Cannabis Law and Regulation as well as Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs and Quality Operations. In this conversation, Sherry walks us through the hoops and hurdles facing people looking to break into the cannabis and psychedelics industries, the mistakes so many people make while trying to ensure that they're operating legally, and the key differences between the established Canadian and emerging American markets.  KEY TAKEAWAYS The most common mistakes that people make when trying to get cannabis licenses. Why Shelly transitioned out of government to launch CannDelta–and what she's focused on now. The unique benefits of working with someone who knows Canada's industry so well for anyone planning a launch in a state like New York or New Jersey. Why medical approvals for psilocybin in a number of states are more likely to happen now than ever before. Why social equity has to be such a big part of the American cannabis story–and how Canada failed to integrate First Nations peoples into its legalization.  Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/55 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

With New York coming online as a major player in our industry, things are changing fast. New players are looking to enter the field at a rapid pace, and the decisions we make along the way could easily have lasting repercussions for operators and consumers nationwide. But as this industry grows, how do we make it the best it can be? Today, we're talking to Lulu Tsui. She's the Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer at On The Revel, a company working to create curated educational and networking experiences for people breaking into the legal cannabis industry. At her company's Revelry events and through the Dope People mentorship program, she's working to help make the cannabis industry more inclusive, more collaborative, and more diverse. Lulu is a designer with over 15 years of experience creating amazing technology, and she's the president of the Cannabis Media Council, where she works to destigmatize and normalize cannabis use in traditional media. In this episode, Lulu talks about the parallels between tech and cannabis, why she thinks New York has the power to transform the global industry in ways California never will, and the amazing things that can happen when you get like minded people together in the same room. KEY TAKEAWAYS The unique challenges facing the cannabis industry when it comes to data and standardization. Why Lulu is betting big on New York to shape what the cannabis industry of the future will look like. How On the Revel is rethinking their conferences and events to inspire connection and create opportunities for innovators and entrepreneurs. How a COVID pivot led Lulu to create the Dope People series. The logistics of getting a retail license in New York State right now. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/54 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

Today, Rick and Jeff "unpack" their experience at the MJ Unpacked conference at the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan as they share their thoughts, highlights, and the sights and sounds from the event. At this high-energy event, they saw more deals get done than ever before, tons of new brands working to enter the space, and a huge number of opportunities taking shape as New York and New Jersey grow into the gigantic markets they're inevitably going to become. While they were there, they caught up with Rusty Wilenkin, CEO of Old Pal. In his words, Old Pal is aiming to create the "Bud Light of weed"–a cannabis product for the everyman that's accessible, affordable, and simple, reminiscent of the era when weed was weed. In this episode, you'll hear more from MJ Unpacked and learn about a ton of exciting brands we discovered at the conference. Then, in our interview with Rusty, we get into how he transitioned out of the legacy market and invented a category, how he's building a cannabis brand at a massive national scale, and his long game for growing Old Pal's portfolio in a fast-moving industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Why the cannabis industry is maturing so rapidly, attracting more capital than ever before, and on track to skyrocket with legalization on the East Coast. How Rusty defines the "core user" in the world of cannabis–and why so many brands aren't reaching those people. Why great brands often fail to achieve success at scale–and how Rusty learned from the critical mistakes he made in the first year of Old Pal. What Old Pal is doing to get themselves into emerging markets as they open up. What it means to launch the "Four Loko" of cannabis products–and why Rusty is so excited about it. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/53 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

This week, we're reporting from the floor of the MJ Unpacked Conference here in New York City. Over the course of three days, we had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the latest innovations in the industry and connect with a number of power players doing fascinating things. First up is Elizabeth Becker. After working in film in LA, Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, Elizabeth launched HiBnb–a fully compliant marketplace that offers cannabis-friendly accommodations and activities to enthusiasts while giving producers and retailers access to amazing marketing opportunities. In our interview with Elizabeth, you'll learn why she never assumes that cannabis consumers are dirty or might burn the house down, how her startup fosters community, and the unique challenges she's facing as an entrepreneur in this fast-moving, fast-growing space. Next, we're joined by Brandon Dorsky and Maggie Wilson, CEO and CMO of Fruit Slabs which is an award-winning and kosher-friendly edible brand. Brandon has over a dozen years of experience as an attorney working to build businesses and create intellectual property, and Maggie is an expert-level cannabis sommelier–and became the first Black female to hold that title in 2018. We had the chance to talk with them about how their business has changed since launching in 2015, the ins and outs of getting federal patents for cannabis products, and where to market in a world that's so quick to punish cannabis brands that aren't doing anything wrong. KEY TAKEAWAYS How HiBnb uniquely provides support to cannabis tourists, brands, and products. Why so many "cannapreneurs" can outsource so few of their operations to other companies–and why they often struggle to find funding. What makes California such a difficult place to build and grow a cannabusiness right now. How Fruit Slabs is connecting with customers while offering a better product at a higher price point. Why Maggie recommends that any business that loses access to Instagram move their operations over to Pinterest. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/52 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

Over the last half-decade, there's been an explosion in interest in virtual assistants. Entrepreneurs of all kinds have hired remote support staff to do all sorts of tasks: making travel arrangements, managing calendars, briefing team members before conferences or engagements, and even assisting with content creation and social media. This is as true of cannabis as it is with other industries, but it comes with its own hurdles and challenges. To learn more, we're talking to Tajanna Mallory, Founder, and CEO at CannAssistants. CannAssistants is a virtual assistant agency that provides administrative support to mid-size cannabis companies, founders, and business executives. She has over a decade of experience providing administrative support, H.R., and talent recruiting services for large teams and C-level executives in the for-profit and not-for-profit space. She's worked with Fortune 500 companies, including Deloitte & Touche, the NFL, Pfizer, Comcast, Chick-Fil-A, and Oliver Wyman, to name just a few. In this episode, Tajanna shares the story of her journey from corporate America to the cannabis industry, how she helps entrepreneurs take administrative tasks off their plate, and how CannAssistants empowers virtual assistants as business owners themselves. KEY TAKEAWAYS Why virtual assistants are a versatile and affordable way to scale a company. The unique issues facing cannabis entrepreneurs (and the virtual assistants working with them) as they grow their businesses. How Tajanna finds the right assistants for her clients and creates opportunities for them to convert to full-time when an employer is interested. How Tajanna sees diversity in the cannabis industry and within her own businesses. What makes the career trajectory for assistants so unique–and how Tajanna helps her assistants achieve their goals just as much as her entrepreneurs'. Why Tajanna doesn't think full federal legalization will happen in the next four years. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/51 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

For obvious reasons, today is a very special episode. Happy 420, everyone! Instead of our usual interview format, we're speaking to three budtenders in the world of cannabis. We ask each of them a handful of questions before jumping into Stump the Budtender–a game that's exactly what it sounds like. So, who are our contestants? First up is Jessica Waldeck from Rebelle Dispensary. Focused on the intersection of wellness and cannabis, she began her career in this industry as a marketing coordinator at an infused yoga studio. Since then, she's run two marathons, a sprint triathlon, and a 100-mile bike course, all aided and enhanced with cannabis. Second, you'll meet Nate Frim of Theory Wellness. He's a pioneer in medical cannabis, working to understand how the human mind works and how he can help people use cannabis to overcome their challenges. Finally, we're joined by AK, who knows the legacy and legal markets equally well. Originally from Montclair, AK launched a delivery service in New Jersey called VibesAK, a not-for-profit dedicated to providing food and security for children in the state. In this episode, you'll learn the day-to-day of three very different people ostensibly doing the same job in our industry and how they got there. You'll also hear us dive deep into the science behind a number of strains, and you'll discover some of the latest innovations in cannabis products. And last but certainly not least, get ready to play Stump the Budtender in the second part of our very special 420 "Extravaganja" episode. Enjoy! KEY TAKEAWAYS What actually happens in dispensaries–both recreational and medical–each and every business day. Why Nate doesn't say "weed" when he talks about cannabis. The critical difference between mixologists in the alcohol industry and budtenders. How cannabis education works for consumers, given that it's impossible to taste and spit like wine. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/50 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

The War on Drugs in America disproportionately affected people of color. So many potential entrepreneurs and their families have had their lives ruined by drug laws and racial profiling. Meanwhile, white male entrepreneurs have had no trouble reaping massive profits from the legal cannabis industry. Today's guest, Jesce Horton, knows this well. He left the world of industrial engineering to join the cannabis industry and co-founded LOWD in 2019. He works to produce some of Oregon's most sought-after craft flower and reclaim economic opportunities for communities devastated by the War on Drugs.  He's an active leader in the cannabis industry and serves as part of the Minority Cannabis Business Association and Nu Project, which have given $1 million in grants and 0% interest loans to minority cannabis entrepreneurs. In this episode, you'll learn how Jesce used his skills as an industrial engineer to pivot into cannabis, how he's helping to create opportunities for people like himself, and the unique challenges that Black entrepreneurs face as they break into the world of legal cannabis. KEY TAKEAWAYS How Jesce started growing cannabis after he moved to Portland–and how this eventually led him into the industry. What happened when Jesce was arrested for possession of a single seed. Why so many of the best growers, and especially growers of color, struggle to find success in the legal market. How LOWD develops strains to meet their consumers' specific needs. Why Jesce thinks we could see full federal legalization 3-5 years from now. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/49 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

What does the future of cannabis farming look like? In an industry where energy consumption is always an issue, supply chains may be in permanent disarray, and regulation can destroy efficiency, producers may seem like they're always struggling to sustainably create great products.  However, that doesn't mean that innovation is impossible. Today, we're talking to Jesus Burrola, CEO of POSIBL–the cannabis farm of the future–to find out why. His company uses smart greenhouses and best-in-class climate control to reduce water consumption and increase energy efficiency, vastly outperforming indoor growers.  In this episode, Jesus joins us to discuss the unique challenges to this industry, the methods and tools POSIBL uses to create consistent cannabis products sustainably and efficiently, and the work he's doing to create meaningful opportunities and representation for Latinos in this fast-growing field. KEY TAKEAWAYS What it really means when POSIBL calls itself "the cannabis farm of the future." How Jesus has created an environment that gives his plants the benefits of both indoor and outdoor growing. How Jesus defines "craft cannabis." Why there's so little minority representation in cannabis–and what Jesus is doing to change that. Why consumer education in cannabis is so important–and why Jesus thinks we've gone backwards in the last several years. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/48 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

There's always been a connection between cannabis and music, but how do legal cannabis brands authentically connect with music lovers? To answer that question, we're talking to Kieve Huffman. Kieve is the founder and CEO of Engager Brands–a portfolio of cannabis lifestyle brands focused on reaching under-marketed music audiences. He builds authentic awareness for brands like Heavy Grass and Neon Roots by meeting people at concerts and music festivals. Before launching Engager, Kieve worked with some of the world's biggest brands, including Apple. Microsoft, MTV, Warner, Universal, and Sony. Today, Kieve joins the podcast to talk about how he jumped from the worlds of music and entertainment into cannabis branding, what he's doing to connect with influencers and reach audiences beyond reggae and jam bands, and his vision for a world in which cannabis consumption can happen safely and legally at shows. KEY TAKEAWAYS How "stoner dude culture" and terrible branding inspired Kieve to launch a more mainstream cannabis media company. The unique challenges of running national marketing campaigns for cannabis and CBD products–and the difference between promoting brand awareness instead of products. The elements that make for a successful brand activation. Why on-premise cannabis sales and consumption at music events is Kieve's "holy grail"–and what some people are doing to make this a reality right now. Why Kieve thinks we're still at least one presidency away from full legalization. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/47 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

The nascent cannabis industry still has a long way to grow. In many ways, it hasn't successfully given back to the people hurt the most from the war on drugs, empowered marginalized entrepreneurs, or created opportunities for more than a small number of people–many of whom are men–with access to capital. Today, we're talking to Charlotte Hanna and Geraldine Hessler. They're the founder and CMO of Rebelle, one of a small handful of women and minority-owned vertically integrated cannabis and lifestyle companies in Massachusetts. Their mission is to empower people who have been marginalized by the criminalization of cannabis while championing its benefits as part of a healthy, positive lifestyle. In this episode, you'll learn how they created a unique brand that filled a clear void in the marketplace, the challenges facing women in this field, and how changing cannabis laws in New York will affect other parts of the country.  KEY TAKEAWAYS What led Charlotte and Geraldine to develop and launch the Rebelle brand. How Rebelle cultivated its concepts and visual identity–and why branding consultants are probably too worried about pissing off men when trying to appeal to women. How Rebelle is working to do business in the most equitable and just way possible–and how they're creating jobs and careers for people coming out of jail. How Charlotte and Geraldine talk to their kids about their work–and how schools are starting to discuss cannabis. Why Geraldine believes it's going to be a while before we see cannabis menus alongside wine lists at restaurants. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/46 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

For hospitality professionals, wine and spirits are a lifelong education. You can spend a lifetime learning about grape varietals, terroir, fermentation, and so much more. And in the world of cannabis, we're just scratching the surface in many ways. You might ask yourself, what does the future of the culinary and hospitality cannabis industries look like? And what are the best ways to teach professionals and customers alike?   To answer these questions, we're talking to Rachel Burkons. She's the co-owner of Altered Plates, a cannabis hospitality group focused on onsite consumption. She specializes in CBD/cannabis-related culinary education, events, content creation, brand and product development, and culinary brand activations. She's also the Executive Director for Crop to Kitchen, a trade organization serving the industry. In this episode, Rachel shares her insight into how this fast-moving industry is rapidly developing, the challenges and innovations that are facing cannabis businesses as the industry continues to grow, and how the "Cali sober" movement is poised to transform substance use in the years to come.  KEY TAKEAWAYS The similarities between wine and spirits education and learning about cannabis–and why both are lifelong journeys. Why a lack of legal, on-premise consumption creates a huge difference between beverage categories and cannabis. How Altered Plates introduces cannabis to customers through meals with cannabis pairings–and why cannabis-infused food is not the company's focus. Why it's not yet possible to legally take advantage of the possibilities in pairing cannabis with wine or beer. What on-site business operators will need to be aware of in order to keep their consumers safe. Recent developments in the nascent cannabis beverage segment–and why you're unlikely to see these products at your local bodega anytime soon. The unique challenges of getting cannabis-infused fresh foods approved for sale. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/45 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal

In this new year, there's one thing we've been thinking about more than almost anything else: what is on-premises consumption of cannabis going to look like in America? When will it happen, and how will marketing and branding change when it does? In the alcohol industry, on-premises consumption builds brands while the off-trade grows volume. It brands an aura and creates opportunities to legally put your products in the hands of consumers. When cannabis companies can do the same thing, it will inevitably transform the business–and create incredible opportunities for great products and savvy marketers. In today's conversation, Rick and Jeff dig into the history of on-premises consumption in alcohol and tobacco (and how it relates to cannabis). They also discuss the laws and regulations that are likely to create unique issues with cannabis and the many different types of Cannabusinesses we could see opening up in the months to come. KEY TAKEAWAYS How DISCUS, the Distilled Spirits Council, self-polices the alcohol business. Why the cannabis industry is inevitably going to run up against smoke-free laws and how this conflict could possibly resolve itself. How marijuana tourism and social cannabis events exist legally in a small number of states. What operators of cannabis consumption lounges and other venues are most concerned about. Why Amsterdam has become less tolerant of cannabis tourism than it used to be. Show Notes For complete show notes, including transcripts, takeaways, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SoHoExp.com/44 To learn more about the podcast and get access to all episodes, visit: SoHoExp.com/GreenRepeal