Blunt Business

Thomas Winstanley from Edibles.com is back to discuss the critical issue of federally recriminalizing hemp-derived THC products like Delta 8 THC via the congressional spending bill, despite the industry being legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill.Winstanley emphasized the dire economic consequences for farmers, noting that recriminalization would wipe out a $6.6 billion industry, and argued for a six-month extension to the November 2026 deadline to prevent farmers from harvesting useless crops.As a political concession to preserve the category, he suggested a focus on codifying the market with a 5-milligram per serving limit for hemp edibles. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In what is being hailed as a "watershed moment" for the cannabis industry, President Trump has officially signed an executive order to move cannabis from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 of the Controlled Substances Act. This historic shift, which follows a bipartisan initiation process started by the Biden administration, formally recognizes the plant's medical benefits for the first time in over 50 years. Beyond rescheduling, the order explores directing Medicare to cover CBD products and encourages Congress to pass the Safer Banking Act to grant legal businesses access to traditional financial institutions. Industry experts anticipate the move will eliminate the heavy federal tax burdens of IRS Code 280E, spark a surge in clinical research, and skyrocket institutional investment. While the President emphasized that this is not full federal legalization, the order opens the door for future clemency for non-violent offenders and marks a significant step toward ending the stigma of prohibition.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Attorney Joshua Bauchner is back to talk about the potential reclassification of cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, spurred by reports of an impending executive order from President Trump.While the move is seen as a beneficial step for research, both speakers and the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (Normal) prefer full declassification, expressing concern that reclassification could stall further reform for decades.They also detailed the expected regulatory complexities of a Schedule III move, including the possibility of prescription requirements for dispensaries, as well as the ongoing challenge of creating accurate workplace and roadside impairment tests. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ryan Hurley, founder of Litix Legal, discusses the "full swing market correction" in the Arizona cannabis industry, stressing the critical need for lean, compliant operations for survival. He introduced Litix Legal's model of "killing the billable hour" through flat, subscription-based rates, making legal services more accessible and predictable for businesses burdened by costs like Section 280E. Hurley cautioned that exploiting the intoxicating hemp loophole threatens voter trust and the industry's future. He expressed cautious optimism about federal Schedule III reclassification as a positive step. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Blunt Business speaks with Joel Latham, CEO of Incannex Healthcare (NASDAQ: IXHL), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering the use of proprietary combination medicines. Latham breaks down their strategy of fusing synthetic cannabinoids and well-characterized active drug components to target chronic conditions with significant unmet needs, emphasizing a robust intellectual property position and synergistic drug action.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Blunt Business welcomes back Paul Weaver, Director and Head of Cannabis at the Boston Beer Company, to Blunt Business to discuss the expansion of their Emerald Hour cannabis line, which now includes cocktail-inspired THC gummies made with live rosin, launching in Ontario and Alberta following last year's beverage debut. Paul explained the company’s bifurcated cannabis strategy, focusing on Teapot for mainstream consumers and Emerald Hour for experienced users, capitalizing on the gummy category's larger market size compared to beverages. We also covered the market validation of cannabis beverages, the high-growth demographics of younger consumers and women driving sales, and the importance of national regulation—rather than prohibition—for a sustainable industry amidst challenges from groups like the Beer Institute.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jackson Rund, a recipient of the DaySavers Higher Potential Scholarship and co-founder of Higher State Brands, shared his journey in the cannabis industry. He overcame felony charges at 17 to pursue his passion, earning dual bachelor's degrees in cannabis chemistry and business. Rund's company, Higher State Brands, focuses on technology and beverages, including dispensary software and a hemp-derived protein drink, aiming to position cannabis as a wellness product. He advocates for student voices and university partnerships in cannabis research. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

LeafLink CEO Ashwin Raj discusses the changes for their customers involve a shift back to a flat-fee pricing model from a usage-based structure. discuss the company's shift in its pricing model. Leaf Link is reverting from an unpopular usage-based structure back to a flat-fee structure and simplifying its product tiers from three to a Starter and a Pro package. We also discuss Ashwin's background in scaling commerce and fintech platforms at companies like Visa, Amazon, and Lyft, explained Leaf Link's strategy to use technology to navigate the cannabis industry's complex regulatory environment. This includes providing tools for compliance, order and inventory management, sales processes, and financials. Leaf Link is also sunsetting the previous "post model" to introduce a new financial services strategy that guarantees payment to sellers and offers retailers options like Flex Pay through Leaf Link's Dharma banking service, while focusing on methodical technology partnerships to improve integrations.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Founder and Chief Communications Officer of Cornbread Hemp and Cornbread Mafia Author Jim Higdon discusses the critical federal threat to the $28.4 billion hemp industry posed by a minibus appropriations bill seeking to ban hemp-derived THC nationwide, noting the government shutdown provides a temporary advocacy opportunity and highlighting that Florida has three congressional members on the relevant conference committee. They also covered Florida's failed House Bill 7027, the appeals court ruling that cannabis odor is insufficient for probable cause, state-level restrictions on intoxicating hemp cannabinoids, and the need for the FDA to regulate the hemp market through a bill giving it authorityAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Daniela Williams, Chief Growth Officer for Paylient, discusses the critical role of HR and the benefits of the Professional Employer Organization (PEO) model in the cannabis industry. Daniela detailed how PEOs like Paylient manage HR complexities, ensure compliance with labor laws, and mitigate risks through a co-employment model, allowing businesses to offload administrative tasks while retaining operational control. She further explained that Paylient enhances employee morale and retention by providing Fortune 500-level benefits and HR technologies, offering significant benefits to small businesses, and differentiating PEOs from ASOs by providing shared liability and EPLI.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Shabbaz K Virani, Co-Founder of The Cannabis Collective and a key speaker at the upcoming Business of Cannabis NY event, delves into the dynamic New York cannabis market.We cover the market's rapid growth, compliance and regulatory hurdles, the crucial role of Dr. June Chin, the new Chief Medical Officer at the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, and the modernization of medical cannabis programs. SKV also highlights strategies for integrating legacy operators into the legal framework and the importance of curated networking to drive industry success. Discover actionable insights to navigate this complex yet opportunity-rich landscape.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Zakiya Watson-Caffe, principal attorney at Watson Law LLC, and Rancheros Fortune, Founder and CEO of Good Fortune Group, discussed the lawsuit "Grassroots Association Incorporated versus the state of Georgia." This lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of the Georgia Hemp Farming Act (SB 494) due to federal preemption, burdensome licensing requirements, and significant revenue losses experienced by businesses.The Georgia Hemp Farming Act (SB 494) is a law that significantly tightens regulations on the hemp industry in Georgia. The amended 2019 bill, which went into effect on October 1, 2024, introduces strict new requirements for businesses, including mandatory licensing for growers, processors, manufacturers, and retailers. It also bans the sale of certain products, such as smokable hemp flower and various THC-infused foods, and restricts sales to individuals 21 and older. Furthermore, the law mandates new labeling, packaging, and testing standards for all hemp products sold in the state.The lawsuit, Grassroots Association, Inc., et al. v. State of Georgia, argues that SB 494 is unconstitutional because it is preempted by the 2018 Farm Bill. A key point of contention is the state's new licensing and product testing requirements, which many business owners claim are overly burdensome and have significantly hurt their revenue. The law also bans the sale of certain products, such as smokable hemp flower and various THC-infused foods, and restricts sales to individuals over 21.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

MJBizCon is evolving to offer a more consumer-focused experience, introducing initiatives like the MJBowl, a bi-coastal cannabis competition, and hosting offsite consumption events at NuWu. This shift aims to gather consumer feedback and integrate the consumer aspect into the "seed to sale" lifecycle. Emilie Lewis, Senior Vice President & Brand Leader, MJBiz and VP of Sales Harrison Radie share the latest details.The conference is dedicated to inclusive industry representation, actively expanding partnerships to celebrate all segments of the cannabis industry. MJBiz strives to be a year-round resource, adapting its strategy based on community needs and industry maturation.Key conference topics include AI applications, customer acquisition, retention strategies, and policy updates, highlighting AI's role in efficiency, cultivation, and understanding consumer behavior. The agenda also features evolving content, including discussions on psychedelics, reflecting the synergy between cannabis and plant medicine industries.MJBiz emphasizes policy and compliance, promoting proactive self-policing and offering state meetups for in-depth regulatory discussions. The Las Vegas experience is adapting with new attractions and cannabis consumption lounges, and MJBiz is committed to making the conference accessible through various affordable options. Collaboration opportunities, including podcasting and advertising services, have been proposed to further benefit MJBiz and its exhibitors.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jason Little, Lead of The Cannabis Practice Team at Farrell Fritz, returns to discuss the recent federal appeals court ruling that New York State's cannabis licensing criteria, which excluded individuals with federal or out-of-state cannabis convictions from receiving priority, were likely unconstitutional. They also discussed how tariffs impact the cannabis industry and how potential federal tax relief from an end to IRS code 280E could offset increased costs from tariffs. Additionally, they considered the less discussed benefit of declassification: the increased ability for research and development dollars to flow into the cannabis market.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Blunt Business welcomes Darren Gleeman, author of "The Cannabis ESOP Architect," to discuss how Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) offer a revolutionary, IRS-approved, zero-tax exit strategy for cannabis businesses, making the 280E tax irrelevant. Darren explained that ESOPs are the only significant M&A activity in the cannabis sector, fostering employee engagement and retention by turning them into owners with bulk payouts upon leaving, while increased cash flow from tax savings fuels company growth. He also stated that federal rescheduling would enhance ESOP benefits, and discussed the book's role in educating the industry and his interest in advertising strategies for client acquisition.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Blunt Business welcomes Melissa Hanson, Flowhub's new VP of Operations, to discuss their new e-commerce platform, which aims to power online cannabis retail growth. Melissa, leveraging her 20 years of retail experience, explained that the platform was designed by former Wayfair experts to streamline dispensary operations by removing the need for multiple vendors and ensuring live inventory and deal syncing. Flowhub emphasizes a client-centric approach, viewing clients as partners and actively incorporating their feedback for future updates.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Corinne Butler discusses Azuca's "2025 Edibles Premiumization Report," which highlights that premium cannabis is defined by efficacy and that consumers are willing to pay more for fast-acting edibles due to their predictability and consistent experience. Corinne detailed how Azuca's encapsulation method ensures fast-acting effects (5-15 minutes) and preserves Delta-9 THC, addressing common inconsistencies in traditional edibles. We also covered the clean label movement in cannabis, women driving the shift to cannabis beverages, and concerns about the 2026 Farm Bill potentially impacting hemp-derived CBD products.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Joe Ziolkowski, CEO of Relm Insurance delves into the evolving landscape of insurance for emerging and high-risk industries. They specifically addressed the significant insurance gaps for THC beverages and the prevalent underinsurance within the broader cannabis sector. Ziolkowski highlighted Relm Insurance's strategic diversification within the cannabis market, expanding its operations and achieving 50-state Managing General Agent (MGA) status to enhance accessibility and direct engagement with clients.The discussion also covered critical issues like climate change risks impacting cannabis cultivation, underscoring the necessity of robust data collection and compliance for accurate risk modeling and premium setting. Ziolkowski emphasized that meeting higher compliance standards, such as GMP, can lead to more favorable insurance terms. The conversation further explored the regulatory complexities of insuring new products like THC beverages, where traditional product liability may not suffice, and the nascent psychedelics industry, where Relm aims to facilitate business models by finding viable coverage solutions.We learn about Relm Insurance's deliberate expansion into the AI insurance sector, a move Ziolkowski explained as a natural progression due to the similarities in underwriting new and emerging risks, including data governance challenges and underdeveloped legislative frameworks. He also noted AI's potential to improve efficiency in cannabis, such as in precision farming.Ziolkowski concluded by stressing Relm's core vision of "making innovation resilient" and their long-term commitment to supporting forward-looking industries like cannabis, psychedelics, and AI, distinguishing them in the insurance market through their dedication to these sectors.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Rama Mayo, the Founder of Hall of Flowers, discussed the upcoming Hall of Flowers events coming to Santa Rosa, California (site of their very first event) as well as hosting their first New York show and its significance for the cannabis industry. Hall of Flowers, a B2B cannabis trade show, has garnered significant praise, particularly for its California events.Rama shares his and his team's connection to New York City and provided updates on event preparations, including the number of brands and retailers, and highlighted the strategic location and offerings of the New York event.We also covered Hall of Flowers' commitment to social equity, their strict vetting process for exhibitors and attendees, and the challenges of regulatory compliance.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Cannabis Tax Attorney James B Mann highlights the ongoing frustration within the cannabis industry due to persistent delays in legalization and reform, particularly concerning the SAFER Banking Act and Section 280E.James addresses the perceived ineffectiveness of current lobbying efforts and explores various legal challenges to Section 280E, noting instances where companies have successfully disputed its application and received tax refunds.We underscore the critical need for more impactful strategies, including broader public outreach and the implementation of a simpler tax structure, to drive meaningful change in the cannabis sector.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy