In this episode of Grow Sessions, host Mark Doherty sits down with Drew Greco, cultivator and consultant at Greenstar Cultivation Services, for an eye-opening conversation on mastering efficiency at scale in an episode titled "People, Plants and Profits: Mastering Efficiency in Large Scale Operations."

From overcoming early construction challenges to implementing cutting-edge cultivation technologies, Drew shares how his hands-on experience, from managing 75-gallon reservoirs to leading advanced grow teams, shaped his approach to smarter, more efficient operations.

He breaks down the real numbers behind production costs, strategies for cutting labor expenses, building strong teams, and creating SOPs that actually work. You’ll also hear insights on indoor versus greenhouse growing , why under-canopy lighting is changing the game and what it really costs to grow a pound of product.

Whether you’re designing your first facility or optimizing a mature operation, this episode delivers practical, proven strategies cultivators can apply today.

Tune in, take notes, and bring your questions — Grow Sessions is where cultivators learn to grow smarter.

About Drew Greco, Greenstar Consulting

I have been cultivating cannabis in regulated large-scale (10,000 - 175,000 sq ft) commercial facilities for over ten years. I started in CO in Denver as a cultivation tech and worked my way up to cultivation manager. I have been managing large-scale cultivation facilities for over five years. I started GreenStar Consulting in September of 2020, since then I have helped with facility design, equipment procurement, staff hiring, staff training and facility management in CA, MA, NV, MS, OK and MO.

I have a construction background and took estimating classes and some basic architectural drawing classes in college. This background, coupled with my cultivation experience, has allowed me to work closely with general contractors to help with the design and build-out of new facilities. 

I have a set of cultivation SOPs that I have developed over the past eight years that are reliable and can guarantee the production of clean, potent cannabis. I grew up swimming competitively, and coached swimming through high school and college. I love to teach people and I love to have a positive impact on people's lives, which i believe, is one of the reasons I have been so successful as a manager and consultant in the cannabis industry.

If you'd like to connect with Drew, please email greenstargrower@gmail.com or visit his website at www.greenstargrower.com.

About Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag

Mark has spent over 15 years at the forefront of the CEA and the cannabis industry, leading projects and building successful businesses across NA. He began his journey with Aqua Vita Farms, one of the first commercial aquaponic farms in the U.S., where he helped pioneer sustainable indoor farming practices.

Throughout his career, Mark has scaled multi-state cannabis operations, driven startups to over $60 million in annual revenue, and led more than 300 cultivation projects. His expertise spans facility design and operational efficiency to team development and growth.

Guided by the philosophy of People, Plants, and Profits, Mark focuses on building strong teams, implementing smart systems, and delivering lasting results. He has a proven track record of helping organizations navigate complex challenges—from commissioning high-tech facilities to adapting during global disruptions.

If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at mark.edward.doherty@gmail.com.

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