Ep. 27 Explore the intersection between cannabis and alcohol in American social circles as Shelby Poole shares her journey from the restaurant industry to founding Betty Bloom, a mobile social club focused on empowering women about the marijuana plant. The conversation dives into the future of cannabis consumption lounges, the rise of non-alcoholic cocktails, and the need for destigmatization and education.

Key Takeaways:

• There is a significant trend toward non-alcoholic and cannabis-based alternatives, reflecting a larger "sober curious" movement within society.


• Stigmatization of female cannabis users as "stoners", contrasting it with the socially accepted "wine moms".


• Shelby envisions a future where the boundaries between alcohol and cannabis consumption are blurred, advocating for responsible and inclusive spaces in hospitality.


• The widespread mismanagement of cannabis legalization in New York State, in terms of market control and education represents a pressing issue within the industry.

About the Guest

Shelby Poole is a multi-faceted entrepreneur and thought leader in the burgeoning cannabis industry. As the owner of Betty Bloom Social Club, she brings her background as a restaurateur to develop educational and socially-driven cannabis experiences. With a family history in the hospitality sector and having managed two family restaurants, Shelby stands at the crossroads of cannabis advocacy and community building. Her efforts are directed toward de-stigmatization, education, and shaping a responsible and fun cannabis culture.

Instagram @bettybloomsocialclub

Join the Betty Bloom Social Club

Event March 8th (International Women’s Day) in NYC: Mainstream Mary

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode sponsors: Salena’s, Marshall Street, Union Tavern

 Focus + Fortify BOSSY Summit in Irondequoit March 11,12 + 18, 19

Music: Do it by Infraction, Mellow Bop by Prigida & You are the best by Cutesy Chamber Ensemble 

Produced by JazzCast Pros

0:00:00 Introduction to Shelby Poole and her work in the cannabis industry

0:03:29 Introduction to the concept of free spirited cocktails

0:06:05 Start of conversation with Shelby Poole

0:08:11 Historical context of the stigma surrounding cannabis

0:09:54 Impact of the war on drugs and the need for cannabis legalization

0:10:40 The changing perception and acceptance of cannabis

0:13:23 Growing up in the hospitality industry

0:16:05 Transitioning from restaurants to working for Anheuser Busch

0:19:20 Creating a successful 420 festival

0:20:58 The intersection of alcohol and cannabis in hospitality

0:21:45 Coming back together after COVID-19 as authentic individuals

0:22:54 Exploring different uses and benefits of cannabis

0:26:07 Dreaming of a different lifestyle

0:26:33 Questioning the definition of success

0:27:49 Launching Betty Bloom

0:30:28 Using Tupperware parties as a model to empower women

0:32:03 Hosting infused dinner and movie events

0:32:22 Planning Mainstream Mary event to destigmatize cannabis

0:36:21 The future of alcohol and cannabis: Allowing liquor license holders to sell cannabis beverages

0:41:00 Dark side of the cannabis industry: Rise of the black market

0:44:48 The correlation between cannabis legalization and violence in Rochester

0:47:36 Shift in societal acceptance of moms smoking cannabis

0:51:59 Efforts of brands to make cannabis more accessible and less intimidating

0:52:47 Shoutouts to Eaton Botanicals and Her Highness as brands doing well in the space

0:54:48 Teaching teens about responsible cannabis use

0:57:10 Comparing the perception of alcohol and cannabis in households

0:58:34 The shift in understanding cannabis as a medicinal alternative

1:00:26 Future plans for Betty Bloom

1:03:07 Tease next podcast guest, Hope

1:04:19 Focus and Fortify event coming in March

1:04:50 Sign-off and contact information

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