The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast

Season 5 kicks off with a true heavy hitter in the cannabis industry. In this episode, Olivia Alexander (now Olivia Sawyer), Founder and CEO of Kush Queen, shares how she went from budtender in Los Angeles to building one of the most recognizable cannabis wellness brands in the country. What started in a garage evolved into a multi-million-dollar company serving over 100,000 customers and pioneering infused bath bombs, topicals, intimacy products, and targeted cannabis wellness solutions. We dive into: • The evolution of the cannabis industry from gray market to legalization • Scaling a cannabis brand through regulation and social media censorship • Why authenticity is non-negotiable in branding • The rise of women consumers in cannabis • Balancing masculine and feminine energy in leadership • The future of cannabis wellness and plant medicine Olivia Sawyer also shares her unfiltered thoughts on the war on drugs, corporate partnerships, content creation, and what it truly takes to build sustainable growth in this industry. If you’re a woman in cannabis, an entrepreneur navigating compliance and censorship, or simply curious about where cannabis wellness is headed — this episode is packed with insight, strategy, and real talk. 🔗 Connect with Olivia Want to follow Olivia’s journey and insights in real time? Connect with her here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-sawyer-a823112a/ Instagram: @thelivsawyer 🛍️ Shop Kush Queen Explore Kush Queen’s award-winning cannabis wellness products — from infused bath bombs to topicals, intimacy products, and more: 🌿 Website: https://www.kushqueen.shop  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elevatingyoudaily 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kushqueenshop/ ----- This episode of Women in CannaBusiness is proudly sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing — a results-driven agency specializing in Meta Ads, Web Design, SEO copywriting, and full-funnel marketing strategies for cannabis, wellness, and purpose-driven brands. If you’re ready to scale with compliant, data-backed advertising that actually converts, visit: 👉 https://www.ocmdigitalmarketing.com Or connect with the team directly to explore how to elevate your brand.

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, host Olivia Castaldy sits down with Sharon Cohen, a seasoned CPA, CFO, and business leader whose unexpected path into the cannabis industry became a career-defining chapter. With decades of financial experience across tech and emerging markets, Sharon now applies her expertise to building operational integrity, compliance, and strategic growth in cannabis — an industry still earning its legitimacy. Sharon shares her passion for the plant, the importance of understanding the full cannabis ecosystem, and why women in business should bring their lived experiences, leadership styles, and unique problem-solving strengths into the space. She offers grounded career advice, highlights the realities of working in a male-dominated industry, and reflects on the role mentorship, networking, and community support play in empowering women to rise together. Rooted in honesty, practicality, and wisdom earned over time, this conversation is a reminder that confidence is built — not gifted — and resilience grows through small wins, curiosity, and showing up authentically. ✨ In this episode: How Sharon transitioned from tech finance to cannabis accounting The value of mentorship, networking, and community support Bringing professional experience into a developing industry Navigating male-dominated spaces with confidence and clarity Work-life balance, boundaries, and leading with authenticity 📲 Connect on Social Media: Follow Women in CannaBusiness – @womenincannabusiness Follow Hefestus @Hefestus_1 Connect with Sharon on LinkedIn -- 🌿 Season 4 Gold Sponsor: Lucky Elk Support our sponsor at luckyelk.com and enjoy 15% off with code WiCB15.

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, we sit down with Ericka Padilla-Toro, also known as The Ganja Goddess, founder of GG’s Garden, a cannabis lifestyle and education brand rooted in empowerment, accessibility, and community. Ericka shares her powerful journey into the legal cannabis industry, from her early experiences with the legacy market to building a platform centered on uplifting consumers, especially women, through knowledge, confidence, and stigma-free education. As a legally blind single mother and multi-degree scholar, Ericka embodies resilience, purpose, and the belief that cannabis is not just a plant, but a path toward self-understanding and wellness. This episode explores what it means to stand firmly in your worth as a woman in business, navigate a male-dominated industry, and use education as a tool for liberation, inclusion, and empowerment.   ✨ In this episode: Ericka’s experience and background before the recreational market in NJ began How GG’s Garden is redefining cannabis education Building confidence and claiming space in the industry Why terpenes, science, and consumer knowledge matter Sisterhood, community, and supporting women in cannabis Finding balance, fulfillment, and purpose in entrepreneurship   📲 Connect on Social Media: Follow Ericka Padilla-Toro – ⁠@ggsgarden_⁠ Follow Women in CannaBusiness – ⁠@womenincannabusiness⁠   🌿 Season 4 Gold Sponsor: ⁠Lucky Elk⁠ Support our sponsor at luckyelk.com and enjoy 15% off your next purchase with code WiCB15.

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, host Olivia Castaldy sits down with Caitlin Kiarie — better known as CannaCait, a pediatric registered dietitian with nearly 20 years of experience and the creator of Mom-n-Pot. After decades of guiding families through evidence-based nutrition, Caitlin entered the cannabis industry to support parents seeking stress relief, balance, and wellness without stigma. Caitlin shares how her professional background, personal journey, and experience in motherhood led her to create a resource where parents can learn about cannabis safely, confidently, and judgment-free. She opens up about entrepreneurship, networking, education, and what it means to be a woman in business — all while managing the daily realities of parenthood. This episode is honest, compassionate, and empowering — offering valuable insight for anyone exploring cannabis, parenting, or wellness from a place of curiosity and care. ✨ In this episode: From clinical nutrition to cannabis entrepreneurship How parents can intentionally use cannabis for stress and wellness The importance of education, community, and open conversations Balancing motherhood, business ownership, and self-care Reducing stigma and supporting women in the cannabis industry 📲 Connect on Social Media: Follow CannaCait (Caitlin Kiarie) – @mom.n.pot Follow Women in CannaBusiness – @womenincannabusiness   💬 “Start low, go slow.”   🌿 Season 4 Gold Sponsor: Lucky Elk Support our sponsor at luckyelk.com and enjoy 15% off your next purchase with code WiCB15

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, host Olivia Castaldy sits down with Danielle Wildstein, Founder & CEO of Blue Oak Dispensary in New Jersey, a pioneering woman in cannabis with over two decades of experience in leadership, operations, and human performance. Danielle shares her journey from a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry to building a community-centered dispensary rooted in education, compassion, and women’s empowerment. Through her lens as both a business owner and mother, she reflects on how cannabis plays a transformative role in health and wellness, and why creating a welcoming environment is essential for breaking stigma and fostering connection. In this powerful conversation, Danielle opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship, the importance of women’s voices in a male-dominated industry, and her mission to make Blue Oak Dispensary a safe, educational, and inspiring space for all. In this episode: Danielle’s path from corporate leadership to cannabis entrepreneurship The role of education and compassion in building customer trust Creating a welcoming dispensary rooted in community and connection How cannabis can enhance health, balance, and self-awareness The importance of women defining success on their own terms 📲 Connect on Social Media: Follow Danielle Wildstein – @blueoakofficial Follow Women in CannaBusiness – @womenincannabusiness Episode Sponsor: CannaContent This episode is sponsored by CannaContent, a women- and LGBTQ+-owned creative agency elevating brand storytelling in the c^nnab!s space long before it was cool. From content strategy to paid ads to navigating marketing in a censored world, CannaContent is a leader in thoughtful, impactful brand-building across the industry.

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, host Olivia Castaldy sits down with Ali Bianco, Founder & CEO of Pinks Products, New York’s first canna-couture brand merging high fashion with premium cannabis. Ali shares how her connection to cannabis began as a source of calm and creativity during her teenage years and evolved into a purpose-driven, luxury brand redefining what femininity, empowerment, and authenticity look like in the cannabis industry. From rose-petal prerolls to eco-friendly packaging designed with women in mind, Pinks brings intention, beauty, and confidence to every detail. In this conversation, Ali opens up about her journey from waitressing to entrepreneurship, navigating a male-dominated space, and building community through authenticity and collaboration. Her story reminds us that cannabis can be elegant, expressive, and empowering — when led by women who dare to do it differently. ✨ In this episode: How Ali turned her passion for cannabis into a thriving business The inspiration behind Pinks’ signature rose petal prerolls What authenticity and purpose mean for women entrepreneurs Building community and confidence in a growing cannabis industry Why femininity and creativity can be powerful disruptors in business ---- 📲 Connect with Ali on Social Media: Ali Bianco on LinkedIn Follow Ali Bianco on Instagram @puffinpinks   Follow Pinks Products – @pinksproducts ---- Follow Women in CannaBusiness: Instagram @womenincannabusiness TikTok @womenincannabusiness LinkedIn: Women in CannaBusiness ---- 🌿 Season 4 Gold Sponsor: Lucky Elk Get 15% off your next order at luckyelk.com with code WiCB15.

In this inspiring episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, host Olivia Castaldy sits down with Liliana (Lili) Hollandt, founder and owner of Lady L Cannabis, a woman-led dispensary on Jersey City’s West Side. An immigrant from Bulgaria and long-time Jersey City resident, Lili brings over 20 years of advertising, project management, and retail experience to New Jersey’s legal market. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose — proving that representation, mentorship, and community can transform an emerging industry. Lili opens up about her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a business in a new market, and the importance of creating an inclusive, welcoming space for women and local residents. She shares how her deep-rooted passion for people and education continues to shape Lady L Cannabis into more than a dispensary — it’s a community hub focused on empowerment, connection, and authenticity.   00:00 — Introduction to Lady L Dispensary 00:31 — Lili’s Journey to Cannabis Entrepreneurship 04:44 — The Importance of Community and Connection 07:38 — Passion for the Plant and Industry 12:44 — Advice for Women in Cannabis 17:28 — The Role of Women in Cannabis 21:08 — Education and Innovation in Cannabis 26:46 — Family Perspectives on Cannabis 28:22 — Navigating Family Dynamics and Cannabis Acceptance 31:53 — Overcoming Gender Bias in the Cannabis Industry 39:13 — Building Resilience and Confidence as a Woman Entrepreneur 45:28 — Balancing Work and Family Life in the Cannabis Sector   Liliana (Lili) Hollandt is the founder and owner of Lady L Cannabis, a woman-led dispensary located on Jersey City’s West Side. Born in Bulgaria and now a proud Jersey City local, Lili combines two decades of expertise in advertising, retail, and project management to redefine what community-driven cannabis retail looks like. Her mission centers on education, empowerment, and local impact — ensuring Lady L Cannabis serves as a safe, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome to learn, grow, and connect. - Follow Lady L Cannabis Jersey City on Instagram: ⁠@ladyljersetcity⁠ Lady L's Website: ⁠ladyljerseycity.com⁠ - This episode is brought to you by our Season 4 Gold Sponsor, ⁠Lucky Elk Hemp⁠. Lucky Elk Hemp cultivates craft-grown, small-batch hemp products from the Pacific Northwest — made with care, integrity, and a commitment to community. Visit⁠ luckyelk.com⁠ to learn more and use WiCB15 at checkout for 15% off your order. - Follow us on Instagram⁠ @womenincannabusiness⁠ for more stories celebrating women leading with purpose in the plant-based industry.

In this moving episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, we sit down with Heather Steinberg, Patient Care Specialist at Jewish Sauce Boss, to talk about resilience, healing, and the power of cannabis to transform lives. With over 15 years in healthcare and a lifelong passion for helping others, Heather shares her powerful journey — from navigating chronic pain and multiple surgeries to discovering cannabis as a life-changing alternative to traditional medicine. As someone who cannot take NSAIDs or Tylenol, Heather’s personal experience as a medical marijuana patient opened the door to a new career in patient advocacy and education. Now, through her work at Jewish Sauce Boss, Heather helps patients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey access their medical cards and find the relief they deserve. Her story is one of strength, purpose, and compassion — a reminder that breaking the stigma starts with one honest conversation at a time. Show Notes & Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Heather Steinberg 01:30 — From Healthcare to Cannabis: How Heather’s Medical Journey Began 03:40 — Living with Chronic Pain, Weight Loss Surgery & Knee Replacements 05:30 — Getting Her Med Card and Discovering Cannabis as Medicine 07:30 — From Social User to Medical Advocate 09:00 — How Cannabis Filled the Gaps in Traditional Healthcare 10:30 — Understanding the Endocannabinoid System 11:00 — Joining Jewish Sauce Boss and Finding Her Purpose 14:00 — The Evolution from Brand Ambassador to Patient Care Specialist 17:00 — Helping Patients Navigate Medical Cards & Strain Education 18:30 — Women’s Health, Endometriosis, and Finding Relief with Cannabis 20:00 — How Cannabis Changed Heather’s Life — and Her Relationships 23:00 — Breaking the Stigma & Sharing Her Story Online 30:30 — Advice for Women Entering the Cannabis Industry 33:00 — Trusting Your Journey and Knowing When You’re Ready 35:00 — Breaking the Stigma: Why She Calls It “Weed” 36:00 — What It Means to Be a Woman in Cannabis 38:00 — Finding Support and Belonging in a Male-Dominated Industry 40:00 — A Day in the Life: Helping Patients Access Relief 45:00 — Finding Balance, Car Culture & Self-Care 47:00 — Who Inspires Heather & What Fuels Her Work in Cannabis About Heather Steinberg With over 15 years in healthcare, Heather Steinberg has dedicated her life to helping others, from navigating complex insurance systems to guiding patients through the medical cannabis process. As a Patient Care Specialist for Jewish Sauce Boss, she helps patients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey access their medical cards, understand strains, and find alternative wellness options. A patient herself, Heather brings empathy and firsthand experience to every interaction, advocating for natural healing and reducing stigma around cannabis use. Follow Heather on Instagram: @jsb_heather420 Learn more about Jewish Sauce Boss: @officialjewishsauceboss Season 4 Gold Sponsor This episode is brought to you by our Season 4 Gold Sponsor, Lucky Elk Hemp. Lucky Elk Hemp cultivates small-batch, craft-grown hemp products from the Pacific Northwest created with care, intention, and integrity. Visit luckyelk.com and use WiCB15 for 15% off your order at checkout. -- Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn at @womenincannabusiness for more stories of women leading with heart, purpose, and passion in the cannabis industry.

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, host Olivia Castaldy sits down with Parisa Mansouri-Rad, better known as Marijuana Momma, the visionary co-founder of Blunt Brunch, a national event series and women’s empowerment platform changing the way women connect, collaborate, and lead in cannabis. Parisa shares her inspiring journey from motherhood and advocacy to entrepreneurship and leadership in the cannabis space. What began as a mission to heal her daughter through plant medicine has evolved into a lifelong commitment to building community, breaking stigma, and empowering women to lead with both strength and compassion. From navigating a male-dominated industry to balancing entrepreneurship with her role as a full-time caregiver and foster mom, Parisa’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and heart. She reminds us that women in cannabis can be both soft and savage, holding space for others while leading with courage and conviction. Tune in to hear how Parisa and the Blunt Brunch team are creating a legacy of empowerment and connection for women across the country. Follow Parisa Instagram: @parisa_mrad Follow Blunt Brunch: @bluntbrunch_

We’re kicking off Season 4 of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast with Adelia Fakhri, Chief Marketing Officer of EventHi and Co-Founder of Blunt Brunch; two trailblazing platforms redefining connection, collaboration, and celebration in the cannabis industry. With over a decade of experience across corporate, consumer electronics, and cannabis sectors, Adelia brings creative strategy and operational excellence together to build movements and shift culture. Her leadership has earned national recognition, including the 2023 Leadership Impact Award from ICBWA, and in this episode, she shares how she’s helping reshape how the cannabis industry connects, communicates, and thrives. From leaving the corporate world to launching one of the most innovative event platforms in cannabis, Adelia’s story is filled with lessons on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the power of community. She opens up about building EventHi, scaling Blunt Brunch, finding balance, and leading with authenticity in a rapidly evolving industry. Whether you’re a marketer, founder, or advocate, this conversation will remind you that leadership isn’t just about building brands, it’s about shaping culture, uplifting others, and paving the way for more inclusive growth in cannabis. Show Notes & Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Adelia Fakhri 04:08 — Adelia’s Journey from Corporate to Cannabis 05:17 — Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship 08:20 — Building a Media Company in Cannabis 10:15 — The Evolution of EventHi and Blunt Brunch 13:37 — Passion for the Cannabis Industry 18:07 — Advice for Women in Cannabis 21:46 — What It Means to Be a Woman in Cannabis 23:39 — Empathy and Strength in a Male-Dominated Industry 24:35 — Facing Hardships as Women Entrepreneurs 29:42 — Building Confidence and Resilience 34:16 — Balancing Work and Well-Being 39:17 — Inspiration from Industry Leaders 42:11 — Introduction to Women in CannaBusiness Podcast 42:12 — Celebrating Women in the Cannabis Industry About Adelia Fakhri Adelia Fakhri is the Co-Founder & Chief Marketing Officer of EventHi, the premier ticketing platform built exclusively for cannabis events. She is also the Co-Founder of Blunt Brunch, a national community for women in cannabis dedicated to connection, education, and empowerment. Recognized with the 2023 Leadership Impact Award from ICBWA, Adelia is known for her visionary approach to marketing, her mentorship of women in leadership, and her ongoing work to advance diversity and inclusion in cannabis. Season 4 Gold Sponsor This episode is made possible by our Season 4 Gold Sponsor — Lucky Elk Hemp. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Lucky Elk Hemp cultivates high-quality, small-batch hemp products crafted with intention and care. Visit luckyelk.com to explore their full line of hemp products and support businesses helping shape the future of plant wellness. 🎧 Listen Now Follow The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast on Instagram @womenincannabusiness for more inspiring stories of women shaping the cannabis industry.

For the Season 3 finale of Women in CannaBusiness, we’re closing with an inspiring conversation with Nicole Kennebeck (@nicnugget) — a veteran who’s been shaping cannabis for over 15 years. Nicole started her career in the early medical days, where she learned firsthand what it meant to operate in an emerging, often uncertain market. From those beginnings, she’s grown into a trusted leader who has built: Inclusive communication strategies that give brands a voice rooted in authenticity. SOPs for retail + marketing programs that ensure consistency, compliance, and scalability. Team cultures centered around values, integrity, and community connection. Now at Lion Labs Michigan, Nicole continues to invest in herself and her work — proving that when you bet on your own growth, the ROI always comes back tenfold. Her story is a reminder that self-investment leads to resilience, opportunity, and a career built on purpose. In this episode, Nicole shares: What it was like starting out in cannabis during the early medical era. How she’s stayed true to her values while navigating 15 years of industry change. Why self-investment is the most important investment you can make. How connection and shared experiences (yes, even passing a joint) can build common ground and community. Nicole’s journey reflects what Women in CannaBusiness is all about: women shaping this industry through authenticity, perseverance, and leadership. ✨ Connect with Nicole: Instagram: @nicnugget Lion Labs Michigan: lionlabsmichigan.com Season 3 of Women in CannaBusiness is proudly sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing.

What happens when a journalist with a nose for truth meets a cannabis industry full of complex regulations, stories, and stigma? You get Stella Morrison—award-winning journalist turned content marketing expert—who now leads the charge in shaping ethical, strategic, and effective cannabis marketing. In this episode, Stella shares how her early days in local journalism laid the groundwork for her no-BS approach to SEO and content strategy. We explore how she transitioned from newspapers to managing multi-brand product launches, and ultimately to founding CannaContent, an award-winning, woman- and LGBTQ+ owned digital marketing firm focused exclusively on the cannabis space. Whether you're a founder, content creator, or marketer in the space, Stella’s insights will leave you with practical tips and inspiration. 🔗 Follow CannaContent: Website: https://www.cannacontent.co/ Instagram: @cannacontent LinkedIn: CannaContent on LinkedIn ✨ Season 3 of The Women in CannaBusiness podcast is proudly sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing, helping passion-driven brands and founders thrive through data-driven strategy, authentic storytelling, and full-service support.

In this episode of Women in CannaBusiness, we sit down with Krystall Hamlett-Lovett, the CEO and Co-Founder of Juice Joint. With a background in microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, Krystall brings a rare blend of science and entrepreneurship to the cannabis space. A Johns Hopkins alum, Krystall channeled her expertise into crafting Juice Joint’s unique formulations, combining carefully extracted cannabinoids with fresh juice blends designed for wellness and enjoyment. Her scientific training not only shaped the extraction methods but also guided the vision behind building a product rooted in both integrity and innovation. We talk about her path from academia and pharmaceuticals to becoming a cannabis entrepreneur, how she leveraged her scientific foundation to carve out a niche in infused beverages, and the importance of women scientists in shaping the future of this industry. This conversation is full of insights for anyone curious about blending science with plant-based entrepreneurship, and what it takes to bring innovation to an emerging market.   Follow Krystal & Juice Joint 🌐 Website: www.ilovejuicejoint.com/ 📸 Instagram: @ilovejuicejoint|   Season 3 Sponsor: This season of Women in CannaBusiness is proudly sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing, helping cannabis and passion driven brands grow with strategy, ads, and storytelling.

Season 3, Episode 5 of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast features Karen Osovsky, a powerhouse in Oregon’s cannabis industry and beyond. Karen began her journey in the legacy market in 2011, later transitioning into Oregon’s recreational cannabis market in 2016, where she built Next Generation Nurseries—a farm and clone nursery dedicated to cultivating cannabis from seed to harvest. Her reputation as a reliable supplier grew, and in 2020 she founded Farmers First, a wholesale and distribution company known for solving supply chain challenges while protecting and empowering Oregon farmers. Today, Karen leads Osovsky Cannabis Consulting, where she uses her hands-on experience to guide businesses through the complexities of the cannabis landscape with honesty, transparency, and hard-earned wisdom. She also serves as VP of Operations for Emunio Logistics, bringing her deep West Coast expertise to emerging East Coast markets like New Jersey. With a Master’s degree from the University of Oregon and a career rooted in integrity, Karen offers a candid look at the challenges and opportunities facing cannabis operators today. From building farms and distribution networks to driving regulatory change, her story is one of resilience, innovation, and relentless advocacy for farmers and small businesses. In this episode, Karen shares the candid lessons she’s learned, the importance of building authentic relationships, and how honesty and resilience have shaped her success. 🔗 Connect with Karen: Osovsky Cannabis Consulting Website Osovsky Consulting Instagram Farmer’s First Website Farmer’s First Instagram Karen’s LinkedIn:  This episode is proudly sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing – a full-service agency dedicated to passion-driven brands and businesses, specializing in digital marketing, social media, and paid advertising. Learn more at ocmdigitalmarketing.com.

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness podcast, we sit down with Anna Kaplan, founder and CEO of SugarTop Buddery and SugarTop Distribution, to explore how she blends art, music, and community into every facet of her work in the cannabis industry. Anna shares her journey from launching SugarTop Buddery with her brother in 2014 to leading a diverse portfolio of brands through SugarTop Distribution. She discusses her mission to foster equity in cannabis by uplifting small businesses, creating collaborative opportunities, and supporting underrepresented voices in the industry. With nearly a decade of experience, Anna has held influential leadership roles, including serving on the Board of Directors for the Oregon Cannabis Association, leading the nonprofit Women Leaders in Cannabis, and founding the Eugene chapter of Tokeativity. We talk about the evolution of Oregon’s cannabis market, the importance of building a brand rooted in culture and community, and how creative collaboration can drive both social change and business success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, advocate, or industry veteran, Anna’s story offers a powerful reminder that cannabis is more than a product — it’s a movement. Follow Anna & SugarTop: Instagram: @sugartop_buddery | @sugartop_distribution Website: https://sugartopbuddery.com/ - This season of The Women in CannaBusiness podcast is proudly sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing, helping cannabis and CPG brands grow through strategic social media, paid advertising, and creative content.

In Season 3, Episode 3 of the Women in Cannabusiness Podcast, we sit down with Rebecca Maestas Sincere, Vice President of Marketing at Bud & Mary’s. With nearly two decades of experience in the cannabis industry, Rebecca has been a driving force behind some of the most recognizable brands in the space. From her early days making infused products during Colorado’s medical cannabis era to leading brand development and marketing at companies like Dixie Brands, LivWell Enlightened Health, The Clear, and now Bud & Mary’s, Rebecca’s career is a testament to passion, innovation, and resilience. We discuss her journey with cannabis that began at 13, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and how she continues to shape the future of cannabis branding and culture. Rebecca also shares her passion for blending cannabis and music, creating iconic collaborations with artists like Snoop Dogg, Cypress Hill, and Kymani Marley.   🎧 Tune in now to hear Rebecca’s story and her vision for building lasting cannabis legacies.   This episode is sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing, a trusted partner for cannabis brands and small businesses seeking strategic, compliance-friendly marketing that delivers results.   Social Links to Connect with Rebecca: Rebecca’s LinkedIn Rebecca’s Instagram @queencannabinoid Budmary.com

In this episode of The Women in CannaBusiness Podcast, host Olivia Castaldy sits down with Kelly Graffin, also known as Short & Stoned,  a bold voice on social media in cannabis education, content creation, and disability inclusion. Kelly shares her powerful story as a former licensed cannabis manufacturer in Colorado, where she became one of the state’s youngest MIP (Marijuana-Infused Product) license holders. As a medical marijuana patient living with dwarfism, she speaks candidly about the challenges of running a cannabis business and the structural barriers many disabled entrepreneurs face in the industry. Now based in Los Angeles, Kelly continues her mission as a cannabis content creator and accessibility advocate, using humor and storytelling to normalize plant medicine and highlight issues often overlooked in mainstream cannabis conversations. Tune in to hear how she’s carved out a unique path in the cannabis industry — from dispensary worker to licensee to digital educator — and why true inclusion starts with listening, amplifying, and building space for every body.   📲 Follow Kelly: Instagram: @shortandstoned TikTok: @shortandstoned Twitter/X: @shortandstoned Website: https://shortandstoned.com   This season is sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing, a trusted partner for cannabis brands and small businesses seeking strategic, compliance-friendly marketing that delivers results.

We’re back for Season 3 — and we’re kicking it off with a powerhouse. Dr. Chanda Macias, Chairwoman and CEO of Women Grow and CEO of National Holistic Healing Center, joins us to talk about leading with purpose, pushing policy forward, and staying grounded through the chaos of the cannabis industry. In this episode, Dr. Chanda shares how she transitioned from cancer research to cannabis reform, how she built one of the most impactful global women’s networks in the space, and why uplifting others is the foundation of her leadership. We discuss her advice to those just entering the industry, her approach to policy change, and the importance of resilience and rest. As the first African American woman to own a multi-state vertically integrated medical cannabis company in the U.S., Dr. Chanda is changing the game — and lifting others while doing it. This is a conversation about legacy, leadership, and showing up with intention. 🎧 Tune in now and don’t forget to subscribe to catch every episode this season. – Season 3 Sponsor This season of The Women in CannaBusiness is sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing, a full-service marketing agency dedicated to supporting mission-driven brands in the cannabis, hemp & wellness industries. – Guest Links: 🔗 Women Grow 📸 @drchanda_macias 📸 @drchandaqueenzulu2020 💼 LinkedIn - Dr. Chanda 📍 @womengrow 📍 @nationalholisticdc

Christina Betancourt Johnson is the founder and CEO of Standard Wellness Maryland — the first African American and Latina majority-owned, vertically integrated cannabis company in the U.S. With a background in executive leadership, nonprofit fundraising, and real estate, Christina entered the cannabis industry with both purpose and strategy, committed to building a brand rooted in service, equity, and integrity.   In our Season 2 finale, Christina joins us to talk about her transition into cannabis, what her day-to-day looks like as a CEO, and the deeper meaning behind her work.   We discuss: The difference between a labor of love and a labor of service — and how she’s teaching her daughter to lead with both Her advice to other women navigating the highs and lows of the industry What it means to build a legacy business rooted in values Why taking care of yourself as a woman in leadership is non-negotiable Christina’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we lead with intention and remain grounded in who we are.   Connect with Christina: 🔗 LinkedIn 📸 Instagram 🌿 Standard Wellness Maryland 🏪 The Forest Dispensary – Baltimore, MD   Season 2 is presented by our sponsor, OCM Digital Marketing — a boutique marketing agency helping passion-driven cannabis and wellness brands grow through strategic social media, ad campaigns, and full-funnel marketing.

In this week’s episode of Women in CannaBusiness, we sit down with Luna Stower—one of the most well-known voices in the cannabis industry, recognized for her tireless work in advocacy, brand building, and creating space for women and equity in a still-male-dominated space. From classroom teacher to becoming employee #1 at companies like Jetty Extracts and Ispire, Luna shares how a car accident and time on disability became the unexpected pivot that launched her career in cannabis tech sales. Since then, she’s helped take multiple companies public and built some of the most beloved legacy brands in the space. This episode dives into the realities women face in the industry—complex dynamics, toxic environments, and the strength it takes to speak up. We also talk about: How she transitioned from education to cannabis entrepreneurship Navigating early California legalization as a founding team member Her experience working in impact roles like Chief Impact Officer at Ispire Why advocacy isn’t optional in this space—and how she shows up for others Speaking out against abuse, advocating for equity, and being a voice for change 🎧 Listen now to hear Luna’s incredible story and why her leadership style is rooted in impact over ego.   Follow Luna: Instagram: @luna.stower Website: www.LunaStower.com LinkedIn: Luna Stower   This season is sponsored by OCM Digital Marketing, supporting women-led cannabis brands through strategy-first marketing and ad management.