Kaya Cast

In this electrifying episode of Kaya Cast Podcast, we dive deep with Munir Haque from Cure8, a seasoned expert in the cannabis business. He reveals some security challenges new cannabis businesses encounter while setting up, including the intricate process of compliance with different market regulations and choosing the best spots for security cameras.Munir emphasizes the importance of vetting vendors deeply, especially their experience in the cannabis industry and their knowledge gained from mistakes made in other markets. He also reveals his belief in the value of dreams and the pursuit of opening multiple locations. Still, he highlights the importance of understanding the differences required in scale, investment, and potential for profit in each new place.You'll learn about securing personal space, especially for multi-site operators, and the benefits of consolidating everything under one umbrella through one app or portal. Munir also provides insight into how security systems can help improve business operations. He discusses the importance of internet security in maintaining a compliant and secure cannabis business, particularly safeguarding valuable patient information contained in POS or med state.Finally, Munir shares his number one tip for business owners looking to scale their business: be discerning about your partnerships. In this line of business, growth and progress can only be possible with the proper collaboration. Tune in for an enlightening conversation! Munir is one of the most knowledgeable and experienced cannabis technology experts in North America. He specializes in retail technology and security and has worked closely with cannabis retailers to design, set up, and manage over 100 dispensaries in the last few years.One thing that sets Munir apart is that he has deep, ground-level experience in retail management, so he understands the day-to-day needs and frustrations of retail managers and employees better than most. Find out more about Cure8 at: https://www.cure8.tech/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/munir-haque-b684ab7a/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cure8-tech/ https://twitter.com/Cure8Tech https://www.facebook.com/cure8.tech

In this fascinating episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, we sit down with Matt Ritchey from Inner Circle for a deep dive into the concept of Masterminds within the cannabis business community. Matt helps us unravel the initial hesitation within the cannabis space and the journey toward understanding and embracing the Mastermind concept. Matt further explains the 95% rule of challenges in business and breaks down the concept of secret sauce within an industry, asserting that what truly matters is the execution strategy. Talking about the significant mindset a leader needs to thrive in this industry, Matt emphasizes the importance of a growth and abundance mindset and creating a culture as a magnet for like-minded individuals. He gives practical advice on shifting away from a scarcity mindset, critical characteristics for identifying growth-minded individuals, and effective communication strategies within a team.Matt ends the episode with strategic advice on how cannabis businesses can accelerate growth. He recommends surrounding yourself with skilled professionals and highlighting human capital's importance. He advises companies to be unattached and put ego aside to let the market be the driving factor. This episode is an essential guide with rich insights and actionable advice for cannabis business owners looking to scale. Matthew Ritchey is a passionate and innovative business growth strategist with over 15 years of experience in driving impactful results for small and medium-sized businesses. As the CEO of InnerCircle, a vetted and private community for leaders and advocates in the canna and alternative plant medicine industries, Matthew empowers companies to unlock their potential and achieve long-term, sustainable success through carefully crafted growth strategies, operational improvements, and effective leadership development.Adept at helping businesses adapt to the ever-evolving cannabis business landscape, Matthew is  sought after for his unique ability to align companies with their corporate objectives, optimize their performance, and establish effective growth strategies that yield results. With a keen eye for identifying inefficiencies and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, he has built a solid reputation for leading businesses towards achieving their goals while fostering healthy company cultures. Find out more about Inner Circle at: https://innercircle.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewritchey/ https://www.instagram.com/mrcannabisevents/ https://twitter.com/TheMattRitchey https://www.facebook.com/mrcanna/  

In this compelling episode, we delve into the world of the cannabis industry with Brit Smith from Different Leaf Podcast. During our discussion, we identify key challenges within the industry, from the heavy red tape and policy hurdles challenging cannabis entrepreneurs to the need for advocacy in shaping the future of cannabis in states like New York.Smith enlightens us on the customer experience in a modern dispensary, highlighting the burgeoning demand for clear guidance and precise expectations for cannabis experiences from new users. She underscores the essential role bud tenders play in this process, bridging the gap between product and patron, and details the importance of comprehensive, coherent staff training and education.We explore creatives ways for cannabis brands to stand out amid the growing competition, focusing on the power of personal connections at events and the utilization of medical professionals within dispensaries for enhanced customer support.Lastly, Smith gives budding cannabis business owners a crucial tip for growth and success: forming a trustworthy and knowledgeable team around you. This episode is packed with insights from an industry insider that will inspire and inform both aspiring entrepreneurs and established dispensary owners. Tune in now to garner a wealth of knowledge to help your cannabis business thrive. We are delighted to welcome our guest, Brit Smith, who serves as the Podcast Host, Editorial Lead, and Writer for Different Leaf, a leading magazine dedicated to guiding readers through the rapidly evolving world of legal cannabis. A proud graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology, Brit boasts over a decade of experience in journalism and the legal cannabis sphere. As a passionate advocate for both the cannabis and LGBTQ+ communities, Brit strives to help the burgeoning industry flourish by facilitating insightful conversations on cannabis business and increasing awareness of cannabis culture in the United States. Find out more about Different Leaf  at: https://www.differentleaf.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brit-smith-197705109/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/differentleaf/ https://pod.link/differentleaf https://www.instagram.com/differentleaf/ https://twitter.com/different_leaf https://www.facebook.com/differentleaf

Welcome to another episode of Kaya Cast Podcast, join us for an insightful conversation with Chris Eggers from CC Security Solutions. Chris has been crucial in bringing forward the security challenges that many cannabis businesses face today. In this episode, Chris revolutionizes the idea of cannabis security and how drone technology is empowering cannabis businesses in no-fly zone spaces while being cost-effective. With the discussion on common misconceptions in the field, we dig into the status quo of cannabis security and the pitfalls of the DIY approach.Chris brings to light the role security plays in contributing to community livelihood and how local law enforcement leverages security from cannabis facilities to gear up their investigations. Towards the end of our chat, Chris shares his advice to aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs on tackling road bumps and growing their business. Listen in as he underlines the importance of staying calm, moving forward, and setting the right expectations. Don't miss out on this mix of insights on technology, misconceptions, industry hurdles, and ultimate business growth.So tune in now for an exciting venture into the world of cannabis security, an area often overlooked but one Chris has managed to delve into comprehensively and explosively. Don't miss it! Chris Eggers is a nationally recognized figure in the fields of cannabis security and cannabis risk management. Prior to founding CCSS, Eggers served 12+ years as a Law Enforcement Officer with both the San Francisco and Oakland Police Departments. His law enforcement experience included working undercover in Oakland, involvement in a broad range of burglary and robbery investigations (including cannabis facilities), and a broad range of compliance and other training and certifications (including cannabis). These experiences were central to “Why” he founded CCSS - and the origin of CCSS’ Mission and Vision. Over the past two years Mr. Eggers has become an increasingly relied upon and trusted resource within the broader commercial cannabis community, different municipalities in California and other state regulatory bodies, and contact for various California and national media outlets on cannabis security and risk management matters. Find out more about CC Security Solutions at: https://ccsecuritysolutions.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophereggers/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cannabis-compliant-security-solutions/

Welcome to a brand new episode of Kaya Cast Podcast, where we're all about empowering dispensaries to flourish. Today, we're giving budding businesses a deep insight into innovative marketing with Dan Serard from the Cannabis Creative Group. Dan shares how the power of well-segmented and purposeful email and SMS drip campaigns can dramatically boost dispensary success. With invaluable tips on crafting engaging content that captivates and drives conversion, this episode is a gold mine for dispensaries eager to grow.Our conversation with Dan doesn't stop at content optimization. He stresses the importance of a scalable, performant, and thoughtfully designed website. From converting videos into static images to bringing forth your star products, he elaborates on effective website optimization strategies. In an era where digital footprints are just as crucial, if not more, than physical storefronts, Dan makes a compelling case for SEO investments that leave lasting impressions and boost discoverability. But fear not if those budgets seem beyond reach. For smaller brands and social fairness applicants, Dan proposes a frugal yet effective solution: optimizing your Google My Business profile. With advice on how to seize and use Google reviews to their fullest potential, even dispensaries on a shoestring budget can cash in on the enormous benefits of superior online reputation management. And one last tip that Dan leaves us with? Don't bank on the "build it, and they will come" strategy, but instead, invest time and effort in laying a strong brand foundation. Tune into this illuminating conversation to reap the rewards for not just the next six months, but far into your cannabis business's future. Dan Serard heads business development and strategic partnerships for Cannabis Creative Group. He has been working in the cannabis industry for over four years and has been a part of marketing over 200+ brands. He is a member of many cannabis associations, and holds Co-Chair of Education and Content for the National Cannabis Industry Association‘s Marketing and Advertising Committee.Dan is also a well respected writer and speaker for various cannabis industry events. With years of experience in the health and wellness industry, Dan’s background as a business development professional complements his interest in the innovating world of cannabis. Dan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management and Policy with a focus in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire. Today, when he’s not in the office, Dan can most likely be found outside – his passions include hiking, snowboarding, fishing, camping, traveling, and playing basketball, to name a few. Find out more about Cannabis Creative Group at: https://cannabiscreative.com/ linkedin.com/in/dserard linkedin.com/company/cannabis-creative-group/ youtube.com/@cannabiscreative instagram.com/cannabiscreativegroup twitter.com/Cannabis_CG

Welcome to another episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast! On today's episode, we continue our conversation with Jazz Samra, founder of the VIP Media Group. Jazz dives deep into the state of the independent cannabis retail sector, sharing his observations on the perils of running a cannabis shop on a shoestring budget, learning from the fate of Alberta's independent stores, and the importance of diversification.Throughout the episode, Jazz underlines the need for cannabis retailers to be well-capitalized and also the value of giving their budtenders a sense of ownership. He contrasts the passion and connection of independent stores with the detached, boardroom approach of big corporates.We also talk about scaling at a minimum of three locations, the significance of training and educating business owners, managing a diverse menu for clients, and the importance of strategic alignment with LP's, and of course, the passion for the product that greets happy customers every day.This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone running or aspiring to start a cannabis business, with an emphasis on best practices, sales strategies, and solid business skills. Join us for the journey as Jazz Samra unravels what it takes to launch, scale and grow in the cannabis industry, making it a business like no other. You won't want to miss it! Jazz Samra is the founder of VIP Media Group, a collaborative cannabis retailer network aimed at empowering the industry to strive for excellence and equity by creating opportunities for all cannabis operators. Jazz is passionate about helping independent cannabis businesses succeed. Jazz is also the President of Sativa Bliss Cannabis Boutique. A chain of licensed cannabis stores with locations throughout Ontario, Canada. Sativa Bliss is an independent, Canadian owned & operated Cannabis Retail Company committed to providing a unique shopping experience that delights the senses and provides customers with the right products they need.  Find out more about VIP Media Group at: https://vipmediagroup.ca/ https://sativabliss.ca/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jazz-samra-8b23ba242/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/vip-media-group-to/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy4xDbb6LX2MfMNteBqKTBQ https://instagram.com/vipmediagroup101/ https://twitter.com/VIPMediaGroup1 https://www.facebook.com/VIP-Media-Group-104931365515034

Join us for an eye-opening discussion with industry expert, Jazz Samra President of Sativa Bliss. Discover a trove of insights on the crucial role of location in the success and expansion of enterprises in the cannabis industry. Jazz dissects the importance of geo-specific demographics and the value of retaining a robust belt of regular clientele in your path to sustainable growth. Cannabis is much like a convenience store model where maximum traffic is steered from the two-kilometer-radius surrounding your store.Jazz recounts his experiences and emphasizes on having proper business systems that ensure smooth operation, even in the owner's absence. Learn from Jazz as he shares insights on effective time management strategies for dispensary owners. He staunchly believes in the owners focusing more on managing the business rather than doing a budtender's job. This episode teems with discussions on strategies to upscale your business, network with fellow store owners, engage in community activities, understand customer behaviour and much more. Jazz Samra is the founder of VIP Media Group, a collaborative cannabis retailer network aimed at empowering the industry to strive for excellence and equity by creating opportunities for all cannabis operators. Jazz is passionate about helping independent cannabis businesses succeed. Jazz is also the President of Sativa Bliss Cannabis Boutique. A chain of licensed cannabis stores with locations throughout Ontario, Canada. Sativa Bliss is an independent, Canadian owned & operated Cannabis Retail Company committed to providing a unique shopping experience that delights the senses and provides customers with the right products they need.  Find out more about Sativa Bliss at: https://vipmediagroup.ca/ https://sativabliss.ca/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jazz-samra-8b23ba242/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/vip-media-group-to/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy4xDbb6LX2MfMNteBqKTBQ https://instagram.com/vipmediagroup101/ https://twitter.com/VIPMediaGroup1 https://www.facebook.com/VIP-Media-Group-104931365515034

In this enlightening episode of Kaya Cast, we delve deep into the cannabis business with renowned cannabis attorney, Alana Hans Cohen. From the importance of building a strong team to navigating the tricky legal terrain, Alana shares invaluable insights and tips for budding cannabis entrepreneurs. Listen as Alana discusses the hurdles faced by cannabis businesses, the anticipated impact of federal legalization, and the do's and don'ts of going into business with friends and family. Whether you are an entrepreneur exploring the cannabis space or a cannabis enthusiast curious about the behind-the-scenes workings, this episode is a must-listen packed with lots of value and advice. Alana Hans-Cohen is a passionate cannabis attorney licensed in six states across the US. As part of the cannabis group at Pashman Stein Walder Hayden, Alana is a self-proclaimed "cannabis nerd," who specializes in navigating the complex world of cannabis law and policy. As an expert in the field, Alana has built an impressive career helping businesses navigate the complex world of cannabis law and regulations. She's not only a strong advocate for her clients but also a champion for greater diversity within the industry.Join us as we dive into Alana's wealth of knowledge and experience, discussing her work with businesses and individuals across all levels of the cannabis supply chain, as well as her involvement in government and private sector conversations on cannabis legislation and regulation. With her unique blend of expertise and charisma, Alana proves that lawyers can be anything but boring. Find out more about Pashman Stein Walder Hayden at: https://alanahanscohen.com/ https://www.pashmanstein.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanamhans/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/pashman-stein-pc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cannabis-advisory-group/about/

In the latest episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, we have a conversation with Betsy Morem and Mark Waller,  co-founders and managing partners of Morem & Waller, CPAs, PLLC. They'll be unlocking valuable insights on the dynamic relationships between accounting and other crucial business departments within your cannabis business. Covering an array of practical topics from understanding key financial statements to effectively maneuvering the challenges 280e presents. Dive into the importance of solid bookkeeping and documentation and discover strategies to audit-proof your business. An accountant's role extends beyond number crunching, they are foundational to your business operations. Learn how having the right accountant can facilitate proactive financial management and create synergies towards your business growth. The episode ends on a high note with the absolute 'must-do's' for every business owner prepping to launch, scale or grow their business. Don't miss out, the world of finance isn't as daunting as it seems with Kaya Cast Podcast! Mark R. Waller, CPA, co-founder and managing partner of Morem & Waller, CPAs, PLLC, has 15+ years of experience working as a public accountant as well as a controller in the private sector. He partners with CEOs, founders, and interested parties in the cannabis industry to help them stay compliant, achieve world-class financial records and financial reporting, and provide tax planning, preparation, and filing. Betsy Morem, CPA, co-founder and managing partner of Morem & Waller, CPAs, PLLC, enjoys helping small businesses and start-ups create, maintain, and improve their accounting systems. She partners with CEOs, founders, and interested parties in the cannabis industry to help them stay compliant, achieve world-class financial records and financial reporting, and provide tax planning, preparation, and filing.  Find out more about Morem & Waller, CPAs at: https://moremwaller.cpa/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrwaller/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/moremwallercpa/ https://moremwaller.hubspotpagebuilder.com/operational-checklist

Join us in this exciting episode of the Kaya Cast podcast as we speak with Irfan Bhola, the CEO and founder of The Flower Agency. Irfan shares his extensive knowledge and experience in digital marketing and breaking traditional norms to build a brand presence, especially in the ever-growing cannabis industry. We delve into what makes a brand stand out, the importance of personalization, and how omnichannel marketing strategies can be used effectively. Whether you're a mom and pop dispensary, a social equity licensee and even a huge brand like Kiva Gummies, Irfan offers practical tips and insights on how to grow your brand in this increasingly competitive market. Tune in to learn more and get inspired on your own cannabis business journey.  Irfan Bhola has over 15 years of experience as a digital marketer, making him an exceptionally qualified and skilled professional. In order to develop tactics that continuously produce outstanding results, he has continually honed his skills across a range of marketing channels, including search, social media, influencer marketing, programmatic advertising, digital out-of-home, SMS, email, audio, TV, and affiliate marketing. Irfan has built complete growth and performance marketing campaigns for a wide range of customers throughout his career, including like Spotify, Uber, Grubhub, Expedia, Netflix, P&G, Apple, and eBay. Irfan entered the cannabis market in 2019 by starting The Flower Agency, a custom omni-channel marketing firm that focuses on working with cannabis and psychedelic brands, retailers, advocacy organizations, and ancillary services like MJ Unpacked, Cann, Houseplant, FundCanna, Kiva, Caliva, Grassdoor, and Harborside. In the cannabis market, it has been demonstrated that focusing on client acquisition, engagement, retention, and awareness is quite effective. Find out more about The Flower Agency at: https://www.theflower.agency https://www.linkedin.com/in/irfanbhola https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-flower-agency

Join us as we continue our conversation with Jessica Cranney, Managing Partner at GRN Mile High. Jessica reveals the four pillars of employee retention that are critical in creating a successful and harmonious work environment, and provides actionable advice on how to implement them. Jessica meticulously breaks down: Onboarding: Ensuring new recruits feel valued from day one, with gestures from personalized letters to initiation kits. Consistent Engagement and Communication: Cultivating a sense of community and collective goals. Jessica shares a unique "spirit-week" idea designed to heighten engagement and foster a fun workforce environment. Performance Management: Establishing strategies that prioritize employee recognition before accountability, with an emphasis on setting and maintaining consistent standards. Offboarding: Treating the end of an employee's tenure with as much importance as their arrival, through implementable strategies such as exit interviews and farewell thank you messages. From effective onboarding processes and engaging communications to performance management strategies and respectful offboarding tactics, Jessica shares the key ingredients for creating an inclusive, enjoyable, and motivating company culture. Tune in to learn the strategies and initiatives you need to succeed in creating a cohesive and engaged workforce. Nominate Kaya Cast for EMJAYS: https://web.kayapush.com/3ItNfK9 Jessica Cranney is the Managing Partner & Chief Connection Officer at GRN Mile High, a prestigious cannabis consulting and recruiting firm. With an impressive background spanning over two decades, Jessica possesses extensive expertise in leadership, organizational development, and retail management.Jessica spent more than 15 years honing her skills at a Fortune 500 TeleCom company. Her innate passion for people development enabled her to cultivate highly motivated and engaged teams that consistently achieved success. Jessica's remarkable career trajectory led her to the position of Vice President, where she was responsible for managing over 200+ stores and leading a diverse cross-functional team of more than 500+ professionals across five states.Eventually, Jessica's professional pursuits and personal interests converged, leading her to the thriving cannabis industry. Leveraging her proven track record in organizational and talent development, labor management, exceptional sales performance, and innovative marketing strategies, Jessica has found the perfect synergy that allows her to excel in the cannabis sector. Find out more about GRN Mile High at: https://grnmilehigh.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicacranney/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/grnmilehigh/ https://www.youtube.com/@grnmilehighletsbebuds https://www.instagram.com/grn_milehigh/ https://www.facebook.com/grnmilehigh

In this episode of Kaya Cast, we have an engaging conversation with Jessica Cranney, a seasoned leader in talent recruitment and consulting in the cannabis industry. Jessica, who transitions from a successful telecom career to cannabis, shares her strategy of recruit, train, and retain, which has been the cornerstone of her success.Jessica sheds light on how to attract high-performing leaders and how to train them to be productive, all while maintaining a conducive environment that motivates them to stay. Moreover, Jessica dives into the realm of consulting, explaining how her organization provides services from organizational development to getting the “right butts in the right seats.”Jessica also shares valuable insights on how to get started in the cannabis industry, the importance of doing one’s homework before jumping into the field, and understanding the industry’s cultural and financial nuances.Lastly, Jessica delves deeper into her strategy with practical examples and tips, shares the three levels of hierarchy that her training encompasses, and talks about the impressive ROI for retention and the importance of optimizing schedules based on consumers' needs. She wraps up the conversation with a powerful tip for business owners on hiring and recruiting talent: the need for transparency and authenticity. Jessica Cranney is the Managing Partner & Chief Connection Officer at GRN Mile High, a prestigious cannabis consulting and recruiting firm. With an impressive background spanning over two decades, Jessica possesses extensive expertise in leadership, organizational development, and retail management.Jessica spent more than 15 years honing her skills at a Fortune 500 TeleCom company. Her innate passion for people development enabled her to cultivate highly motivated and engaged teams that consistently achieved success. Jessica's remarkable career trajectory led her to the position of Vice President, where she was responsible for managing over 200+ stores and leading a diverse cross-functional team of more than 500+ professionals across five states.Eventually, Jessica's professional pursuits and personal interests converged, leading her to the thriving cannabis industry. Leveraging her proven track record in organizational and talent development, labor management, exceptional sales performance, and innovative marketing strategies, Jessica has found the perfect synergy that allows her to excel in the cannabis sector. Find out more about GRN Mile High at: https://grnmilehigh.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicacranney/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/grnmilehigh/ https://www.youtube.com/@grnmilehighletsbebuds https://www.instagram.com/grn_milehigh/ https://www.facebook.com/grnmilehigh Nominate Kaya Cast for EMJAYS: https://web.kayapush.com/3ItNfK9

On this engaging episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, we talk with Felicia Hunter from Euphoric Accounting. Felicia shares critical financial insights on thriving within the cannabis industry. She underlines the importance of staying vigilant with your financials and engaging in constant dialogue with your CFO. Felicia explains how to better comprehend techniques for reducing taxes, cutting costs, curbing expenses, and potential growth avenues. She also provides a fascinating history of the 280e tax code and its prevalent impact on the cannabis industry. Felicia highlights the significance of correctly configuring your POS systems, the role of having an accurate inventory, and the importance of an all-inclusive overview of your taxes.Indispensable advice is given on managing excise tax confusion, and the hopes and potential changes in tax regulations going forward. Felicia also discusses the evolving role of technology in ensuring compliance and tax management within the industry. This episode is a rich reservoir of information for current or aspiring cannabis business owners. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with essential guidance. Felicia Hunter, CPA is an experienced accounting and finance professional with over 13 years in corporate manufacturing/asset management. She has extensive experience in all controllership functions including transactional accounting, GAAP accounting, cost accounting, entire month end-close, and reporting and analysis. In addition to her controllership experience, she has worked in process design and improvements, system implementation and automations, and management of financial controls and internal controls. She uses this experience when working with growing companies to build scalable processes and derive value from the accounting and reporting function. Felicia decided to build an outsourced CFO and full-service accounting firm that focuses on the cannabis and psychedelics industry, because she wanted to help businesses thrive and understand their numbers in this highly regulated space. Her belief is that in order to properly and effectively provide results in an industry, the service provider has to be passionate and enjoy the industry they are servicing. Felicia has obtained specialized cannabis accounting training from National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professional and DopeCFO.  Find out more about Euphoric Accounting  at: www.euphoricaccounting.com www.linkedin.com/in/feliciahunter www.facebook.com/Euphoric.Accounting www.instagram.com/euphoric.accounting www.linkedin.com/company/euphoric-accounting

In this episode of Kaya Cast Podcast, we dive deep into the world of cannabis cultivation with Jesús Burrola, CEO of the POSIBL Project. Jesús shares the unique approach that sets the POSIBL Project apart from other cannabis businesses, focusing on sustainable and cost-effective methods to deliver high-quality products. We discuss the challenges of balancing indoor and outdoor cultivation, how their methodology leads to more sustainable cultivation, and the collaboration with legacy breeders to create unique strains. Jesús also opens up about the current state of the cannabis market, the need for regulatory changes, and his vision for the future of the POSIBL Project. So, join us as we explore this booming industry and learn how the POSIBL Project aims to revolutionize cannabis cultivation for the better. Jesus Burrola is Chief Executive Officer of POSIBL, the cannabis farm of the future and engine for several of California’s leading brands. With over 2,000,000 units of packaged product to date, POSIBL is redefining what it means to produce the highest quality cannabis. Jesus is a proven leader who believes in his teams as the primary driver of growth. He leads the organization’s growth strategy in sales and operations and the best team at POSIBL to position the company as a global market leader. Prior to POSIBL, Jesus worked for 15 years at Beacon Building Products, the largest publicly traded building materials distributor in North America. Jesus was at the company during growth from $1 Billion to $8 Billion — through a combination of 30+ acquisitions and launches into new markets. Jesus worked his way up from a trainee to a National Vice President, managing a $700M  business segment. During Jesus’ time there, he held roles in both Sales Management and Operations, and was tasked with integrating several large acquisitions. Jesus holds a Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management from Arizona State University. He enjoys quality time with his family, playing golf, and exploring great cuisine. Find out more about POSIBL at: http://www.posiblproject.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesus-burrola-2b1b2070/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/posibl https://www.instagram.com/posiblproject/

In this episode of Kaya Cast, we sit down with Ed Linetskiy, Chief Compliance Officer for GreenSpacePro, to discuss the importance of inventory accountability, the impact of regulations on businesses in the cannabis industry, and the need for collaboration throughout the supply chain. Ed emphasizes the assets of a licensee, including employees, raw materials, inventory, and the need for proper accounting. He also shares insights on how regulations can be interpreted and navigated, and how businesses can work with regulators to ensure compliance while considering the needs of customers. Ed stresses that compliance programs and checks and balances are essential for the success of any business in the cannabis industry, and encourages open communication between employers and employees to address issues and improve processes. ‍Unlock Your Success in the Cannabis Industry! Download the ultimate guide to writing a winning cannabis license application here: https://web.kayapush.com/43UVtE1Eduard Linetskiy is the Chief Compliance Officer for GreenSpacePro, a cannabis business consulting firm. He has over 10 years of experience in the field, and has consulted with some of the biggest players in the industry. He is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, and has been featured on many cannabis business podcasts. Eduard is a passionate advocate for cannabis, and is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs succeed in this rapidly growing industry. He is an expert on topics such as business strategies, financial planning, marketing, and product development. He is passionate about helping businesses optimize their operations to maximize their success. Find out more about GreenSpacePro at: greenspacepro.com anamitech.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduard-linetskiy/ linkedin.com/company/greenspacepro youtube.com/@greenspacepro2854 instagram.com/greenspace_pro twitter.com/GreenSpacePro1 facebook.com/GreenSpacePro

In this eye-opening and thought-provoking episode of Kaya Cast Podcast, we sit down with the incredibly inspiring JM Balbuena. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and a military veteran, JM shares her unique perspective on the cannabis industry and how it serves as a unifying force for various communities. Together, they discuss the healing power of cannabis and the urgent need for more inclusive and sustainable practices within the industry.From her journey navigating the dynamic cannabis space as an entrepreneur to the importance of being educated about the plant, JM provides valuable insights on the challenges faced daily and the tremendous potential of the industry. As both an advocate and educator, she stresses the significance of striking a balance between advocacy, profit, and education to effectively bring positive change.Moreover, JM talks about her latest book, which gives readers a realistic portrayal of the cannabis world while providing them with essential educational resources. As a special treat for our listeners, we're giving away a free copy of JM Balbuena's book! Tune in to learn how to get your hands on this must-read gem. Navy veteran JM Balbuena is an author, filmmaker, advocate, and entrepreneur focused on empowering aspiring leaders in the rapidly growing legal cannabis space. JM’s debut book, The Successful Canna-preneur, does exactly this, while awarding JM with “Cannabis Educator of the Year” by the 2021 Las Vegas Cannabis Awards and “100 Latinas Shaping The World” by The New Latina. JM received a Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal for her dedicated service as Aviation Electronics Tech in the United States Navy between 2010 to 2014. With a focus on business development, strategic planning, and execution, JM successfully runs BSW (Boycott Shitty Weed), promoting advocacy through fashion and muti-media including Web3 and blockchain integration. She also leads Synergy Studios, providing filmmaking, content creation, and executive production to leading brands in the cannabis industry. JM currently serves as CMO for Prime Harvest Inc., a technology-focused full-service cannabis corporation horizontally diversified across various segments of the cannabis value chain including licensing acquisition and compliance management, direct-to-consumer operations, and parent company of Jaxx Cannabis, a San Diego based retailer.Additionally, JM is cofounder of Palenque Provisions, a family owned Latinx food manufacturer headquartered in New Jersey. JM holds a Bachelor of Science Marketing from University of Scranton; Bachelor of Arts Media Production from Platt College; Masters Business Administration Marketing from University of Phoenix; and a Masters in Information Systems Management from National University. JM’s Successful Canna-preneur is accessible online via podcast, documentary (TBA 2023), audiobook, and is pending its first print in Spanish. JM is quickly becoming a prominent thought leader in cannabis, Latinx affairs, women empowerment, social equity, military veteran advocacy, Web3 multi-media, and wealth generation.  Find out more about Synergy Studios  at: https://www.synergystudios.tv/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannbalbuena/ https://primeharvestinc.com/ https://www.thesuccessfulcannapreneur.com https://jaxxcannabis.com/ https://bswnation.com/ https://weed4thepeople.com/

In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, we are joined by Summer Thorn and Angelita Green, two experts in the cannabis accounting field. They share their insights on how New York's recent decoupling from 280e allows cannabis business owners to take deductions on their state tax return, and the importance of having an industry-specific accountant to navigate the ever-changing regulations.Summer and Angelita emphasize the importance of working within the compliance of 280e and maintaining an ongoing conversation with your accountant. They also discuss the key components of the balance sheet and income statement that cannabis business owners need to pay attention to, stressing the importance of regular inventory counts and budget planning.Our guests also share their perspectives on the gross profit trends in the cannabis industry, the demand for legal products, and the challenges faced by social equity license holders in obtaining capital. Despite facing challenges that are unique to the cannabis industry, Summer and Angelita highlight the resilience and determination of cannabis business owners who continue to thrive in the face of adversity.Tune in to this episode to learn more about navigating the complexities of cannabis accounting and the bright future of the industry! Summer Thorn spent the first 11 years of her professional career in the United States Air Force where she served her country honorably both at home and abroad and in deployment to Iraq. Summer used her GI Bill and completed her bachelor’s degree at the Darla Moore School of Business and then went on to earn her Certified Public Accounting license and her Master’s in Business Administration. Summer first became interested in the cannabis space during her time in college, where she minored in criminal justice and learned of the racial injustice the punitive drug laws cause. While this information stuck with her, she wasn't exactly sure how her degree in accounting could help. She realized she could use her expertise to help the emerging cannabis industry with her knowledge of accounting and started her own accounting firm; Dope CPA. Angelita Green has over 20 years of experience in accounting and tax. She has been working with cannabis clients for 7 years, from seed to sale and is a continuous student of Cannabis Accounting. A member of the National Association of Cannabis and Tax Professionals, where she continues to receive cannabis training and network with other accountants in the industry. She is also VIP Member of DOPE CFO, Women's Cannabis Chamber of Cannabis, NORML, as well as Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association (ICIA). Find out more about Cannabis Accounting at: www.dopecpa.org www.newleafea.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/summernthorn/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/dope-cpa/ https://www.facebook.com/dopeCPA https://www.instagram.com/dope.cpa/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/newleafea/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-leaf-ea-corporation/

In this episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, we welcome Tommy Truong, CEO of Kaya Push, as he shares his insights on the importance of having the right team and strategy in place to scale your cannabis dispensary business. Tommy talks about the correlation between where the owner spends their time and the size of the business, the importance of having the right employees in place, and the art of scaling. He also provides valuable advice on hiring and developing the right team members for your dispensary, managing inventory and cash, and how to leverage KPIs to identify exceptional team members. Tommy Truong (CPA) is the co-founder and CEO of KayaPush. With over $1 Billion of payroll processed last year, Kayapush helps dispensaries scale through an easy people management platform. Tommy has helped thousands of business owners grow their companies through simplifying workforce management.  Find out more about Kaya Push at: kayapush.com linkedin.com/in/tommy-truong linkedin.com/company/kayapush youtube.com/@kayacastpodcast instagram.com/kayapush twitter.com/kayapush facebook.com/kayapushsoftware

In this episode of the Kaya Cast podcast, we dive into the fascinating intersection of cannabis and technology with Adam Hutchinson from CannaSpyglass. We explore how the cannabis industry is the first emerging market to benefit from the current era of open technology, allowing businesses to access and move data without needing a team of experts. Our guests discuss the importance of utilizing data and technology to improve decision-making and financials, as well as the value of offloading clerical work to focus on core business strategies.We also touch on the importance of avoiding the "build it and they will come" mentality, and instead focusing on a minimum viable product that allows clients to guide development. Hear about real-life examples of businesses using data to reinforce their intuition and make informed decisions about dispensary locations.Looking ahead, our guests envision a future where cannabis business executives can seamlessly monitor and manage their operations from seed to sale with the help of platforms like CannaSpyglass. They also share valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of networking, collaboration, and learning from the successes and failures of others.Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of cannabis and technology, and how these two worlds are coming together to create a more efficient and innovative industry. Find out more about CannaSpyglass at: https://cannaspyglass.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hutchinson-38088154 https://www.linkedin.com/company/cannaspyglass https://www.instagram.com/cannaspyglass https://twitter.com/cannaspyglass https://www.facebook.com/CannaSpyglass

In this eye-opening episode of Kaya Cast, we're joined by Margit Whitlock, Principal / Creative Director at ACI Architectural Concepts Inc, as we dive deep into the importance of design, branding, and lighting in your cannabis facility to not only attract new customers, but keep them coming back for more! Discover the crucial role your reputation plays in creating a loyal customer base and referral business, and learn how to navigate the challenges of permits and property rental while setting up your cannabis facility. Margit shares her expert advice on understanding your brand's vibe and aligning it with your facility's design, as well as the significance of having a happy, empowered staff for growing your business and keeping customers satisfied. Don't miss out on these invaluable insights from an industry leader - tune in now! Margit Whitlock is an AIA licensed architect and the CEO of 4Designs, an interior design and architecture firm specializing in cannabis-related projects. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Margit has been at the forefront of designing and building dispensaries, grow rooms, and extraction labs. As an expert in the cannabis industry, she has been featured in numerous podcasts and publications to discuss her work, and to offer solutions to the industry’s unique challenges. Margit is passionate about creating safe and responsible spaces for cannabis businesses to thrive. She has a unique insight into the industry, and is a great resource for anyone interested in breaking into the cannabis business. Find out more about ACI Architectural Concepts Inc at: 4designs.com linkedin.com/in/margitwhitlockaia linkedin.com/company/aci-architectural-concepts-inc instagram.com/architecturalconceptsinc twitter.com/ArchitectMargit facebook.com/Architectural-Concepts-Inc-111988855529960