Blunt Business

Terry Mendez, the new CEO of Safe Harbor Financial, the newly appointed CEO of Safe Harbor Financial, emphasizing their experience in the cannabis industry and business transformation . We discussed Safe Harbor's success in processing over $25 billion in cannabis-related funds, their strategies for navigating industry challenges (including regulatory hurdles and taxation), and their vision for expanding into a multifaceted fintech company offering various services beyond banking.  Mendez highlighted several new initiatives, such as debt restructuring, new programs (employee banking, Safe Harbor Connects), and the development of a lending platform,  while emphasizing the company's NASDAQ listing and data-driven approach to addressing industry pain points. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Anthony Coniglio of New Lake Capital Partners returns to Blunt Business to discuss the current state of the cannabis industry. Despite delays in federal reform and setbacks like the failed Florida ballot initiative, New Lake Partners maintains a strong financial position. Coniglio highlights the company's disciplined capital allocation strategy, focus on limited-licensed jurisdictions, and key performance indicators such as AFO and AFO payout ratio.The conversation also covers strategies for mitigating risks, monitoring market conditions, and exploring future opportunities tied to potential federal regulation and increased institutional investor interest.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Zachary Kobrin, transactional and regulatory attorney at Saul Ewing LLP discusses the merging of the cannabis and alcohol industries, driven by shifting consumer preferences and the emergence of hemp-derived beverages. Kobrin discusses regulatory challenges such as stock exchange restrictions on cannabis companies and inconsistent federal regulations. The conversation also addressed the importance of compliance in restrictive states, regulatory transparency, and the limited impact of the Safe Banking Act on financial issues for cannabis businesses. Hemp-derived beverages were highlighted as a promising market opportunity, and frustration was expressed regarding the slow progression of cannabis regulation.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jason Schwent, cybersecurity attorney at Clark Hill, addresses the growing cyber security risks facing the cannabis industry. The discussion highlights the unique vulnerabilities of cannabis businesses due to heavy regulation, reliance on third-party vendors, and challenges with payment processing. Clark Hill wrote an article on The Growing Cybersecurity Risks in the Cannabis IndustryAn attorney specializing in cyber security emphasizes the importance of due diligence when selecting vendors, particularly point-of-sale systems, and stresses the need for robust security protocols to protect sensitive customer data, including government IDs and medical information.We also explore the potential legal and financial repercussions of data breaches, including regulatory scrutiny, lawsuits, and damage to brand reputation. It concludes with recommendations for proactive measures, such as developing incident response plans, obtaining appropriate cyber security insurance, and treating cyber security compliance as an ongo

Zone Vapor CEO Josh Hoffman delves into the company's strategies for the 510 thread vape market, focusing on the innovative Zone Opto vaporizer. He highlights its customizable modes, user-friendly display, and quality commitment through a three-year warranty. Hoffman addresses concerns related to the vape crisis, emphasizing the safety of regulated products and the industry's focus on compliance. He also outlines Zone Vapor's marketing approach, which centers on influencer engagement and strategic retail partnerships. Furthermore, Hoffman shares his insights on future vape technology trends and draws upon his extensive experience in product development and brand management within the cannabis industry.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ryan Burke, COO at Carma HoldCo shares news of Tyson 2.0's expansion into South Africa, its 17th international market.We highlight the strategic decision to enter the South African market due to its legalized personal cannabis use and market potential.We also emphasize the importance of local partnerships for regulatory compliance, adapting business models to diverse legal environments, and tailoring product offerings to local consumer preferences.We also discuss challenges in maintaining quality standards across global markets and future expansion plans within Africa and other global markets.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Keshawn Warner of Dazed Cannabis and Emiliano Cuellar of Ganja Gang detailed their blockchain-based inventory management system, designed to combat revenue loss and enhance compliance in cannabis dispensaries. Their system utilizes smart contracts linked to inventory, preventing unauthorized sales and reducing human error. They emphasized the real-world utility of their project, moving beyond traditional NFT applications by providing tangible value and focusing on compliance. Keshawn also highlighted the use of zero-knowledge proofs for age verification, ensuring consumer privacy and anonymity. They also discussed blockchain's potential to facilitate the transition of legacy operators into the legal market, enhancing efficiency and creating a safer environment for consumers. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Blunt Business welcomes back Jonathan Robbins, head of the cannabis practice at Akerman, to talk about the cannabis industry's persistent hurdles, encompassing federal reform, banking complexities, and state-federal law discrepancies. The stalled DEA rescheduling and the need for a revised hemp bill were key points.Banking challenges, including debanking and prohibitive tax rates, were highlighted, with the Senate's limited progress in addressing these issues noted. The ongoing legislative battles between branches of government, the impact of specific senators, and the necessity of grassroots advocacy were emphasized.The conversation also underscored the importance of legal and financial strategies for cannabis businesses, the need for increased cannabis research, and the potential impacts of upcoming Farm Bill amendments and state-level initiatives like Smart and Safe Florida's revised adult-use proposal.Future steps recommended include cannabis businesses preparing for THC regulation changes, ex

Blunt Business explores the complexities of New York's nascent legal cannabis market through a conversation with Joshua Wilson, the general manager of Culture House, a dispensary located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The discussion illuminates the hurdles and successes encountered by social equity license holders, the regulatory challenges faced by established brands, the influence of the newly formed Trade Practices Bureau, the nuances of True Party of Interest (TPI) rules, and the day-to-day operations of a cannabis retailer in New York City.Joshua's firsthand experience as a social equity license holder underscores the demanding journey from license acquisition to operational establishment. He stresses the pivotal role of carefully selected partnerships and active community involvement in accelerating the process, highlighting the necessity of maneuvering through a labyrinth of bureaucratic procedures. He acknowledges that success often hinges on a combination of strategic planning and favorab

This interview with David Spradlin from Golden Hour Collective provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving cannabis industry, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by its transition from a patient-centric model to a more corporate, adult-use market. Spradlin’s insights, drawn from his extensive experience in the cannabis sector and his work with Golden Hour Collective, offer a valuable perspective on the industry’s past, present, and potential future, particularly concerning the role of legacy operators and the impact of evolving regulations.Spradlin’s journey in the cannabis industry began in 2006 on the grow side, eventually leading him to retail, where he sought to create a more welcoming environment for medical patients. He expresses concern about the increasing corporatization of the cannabis industry, highlighting the potential risks for smaller players and those with serious medical needs. He reflects on the difficulties of raising and deploying capital in this sector, acknowledg

This interview with Tara Coomans, CEO of Avaans Media, explores the transformative influence of artificial intelligence on journalism and public relations, with a particular focus on the cannabis industry. The discussion delves into the potential benefits and challenges AI presents for cannabis businesses, emphasizing the enduring importance of human creativity, trust-building, and strategic adaptation in this rapidly evolving media landscape. Coomans offers insights into navigating the complexities of AI-driven content generation, maintaining authenticity, and effectively reaching target audiences, particularly women, in the age of algorithms and deepfakes.The conversation begins by acknowledging the increasing prevalence of AI in media and its potential impact on the cannabis industry. Coomans highlights the shift AI is bringing about, moving professionals away from routine tasks and towards more strategic, managerial roles. The ability to provide clear instructions to AI systems and understand their techni

Paul Weaver, Director of Cannabis at the Boston Beer Company, shared insights into the company's Canadian Cannabis Division and their new product, Emerald Hour, a line of non-alcoholic cannabis cocktails designed for experienced consumers seeking a full-spectrum, solventless experience. The product launch strategy, focusing initially on the Ontario market due to its regulatory landscape, was discussed, along with plans for US expansion. The conversation highlighted the growing trend of consumers, particularly younger generations, shifting away from alcohol and towards cannabis-infused beverages, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as "cali sober." This demographic shift is driving innovation in the cannabis beverage sector, with companies like Boston Beer Company adapting to these changing preferences. The discussion also touched upon the challenges and opportunities within the Canadian cannabis market, including regulatory hurdles and the growth of cannabis-infused beverages. The potential of cann

Rocco Del Priore, Co-Founder of Sweed POS, discusses the critical importance of compliance and enterprise-grade solutions within the evolving cannabis industry. The conversation centers around Sweed POS's commitment to data security, regulatory compliance, and robust platform functionality, highlighting their achievement of both SOC 1 and SOC 2 Type 2 certifications.1The discussion begins with a deep dive into data security, a paramount concern given the sensitive nature of customer information and financial transactions within cannabis dispensaries. Rocco explains Sweed POS's comprehensive security measures, including encryption, access controls, and intrusion detection systems. He then emphasizes the significance of achieving SOC 1 and SOC 2 Type 2 certifications, industry-recognized audits that validate a service organization's internal controls over financial reporting and customer data security, respectively. Rocco clarifies the distinction between these certifications, explaining that SOC 1

Blunt Business explores the critical issues facing the cannabis industry, focusing on regulation, compliance, and investment, through the lens of the International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA). David Ruskin, their newly appointed president, shared his insights on the organization's role and the evolving legal and regulatory landscape. Ruskin highlighted the INCBA's value as a network of experienced professionals dedicated to navigating the complexities of cannabis law. He emphasized the organization's role in providing access to expertise on diverse regulatory standards across different markets, a crucial benefit given the ever-changing rules governing the industry. The INCBA serves as a central resource for staying informed and connected, offering guidance on navigating the intricate regulatory environment. The conversation addressed the ongoing process of rescheduling cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act. Ruskin discussed the delays caused by new allegations and the subsequent public

Luna Stower, Head of Impact at Ispire Technology, joined the conversation to discuss her role as a leader and advocate in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry. With a passion for social justice, regulatory reform, and technological innovation, Luna illuminated the path Ispire is forging to shape the future of cannabis. From groundbreaking partnerships with global icons to pioneering regulatory solutions, Luna shared insights into the company’s impact-driven mission and its commitment to inclusivity, quality, and transparency.Luna began by highlighting Ispire's exciting partnerships with Afrobeats star Burna Boy and cannabis icon Snoop Dogg. These collaborations underscore the brand's commitment to cultural relevance and authenticity, leveraging the global influence of these artists to advocate for safe and responsible cannabis use. Luna emphasized how these partnerships reflect Ispire’s dedication to quality assurance and reliability, ensuring consumers have access to premium products while elevatin

Blunt Business speaks with Dina Rollman, CEO of StrainBrain and board member of New Lake Capital Partners. The discussion explores the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, the transformative potential of AI, and the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in this sector.Rollman shares her perspective on the uncertain legislative future of cannabis, acknowledging the political headwinds but remaining optimistic about potential progress, particularly in the area of rescheduling. She predicts that AI will be a major force in the industry by 2025, citing StrainBrain, an AI-powered product recommendation engine, as a prime example. StrainBrain addresses the overwhelming product variety and lack of consumer education in the cannabis market by offering personalized recommendations tailored to individual preferences.Beyond its consumer-facing applications, AI has the potential to streamline operations and improve compliance within the cannabis industry. Rollman and the interviewer discuss how AI can au

Tyler Priest, the Chief Revenue Officer at Greenleaf Business Solutions, delves into the complexities of managing HR and payroll within the cannabis industry's complex regulatory landscape.Tyler Priest emphasizes the ongoing conflict between state and federal cannabis laws, particularly concerning 401(k) plans for cannabis companies. He highlights the need for comprehensive HR and payroll solutions tailored to the unique challenges of this industry, including payroll processing, HR consulting, benefits administration, and compliant 401(k) options.The conversation explores the difficulties in establishing traditional retirement savings plans for cannabis employees due to the conflict between IRS tax codes and cannabis industry regulations. Tyler Priest discusses Greenleaf's efforts to develop a compliant 401(k) solution that can be offered by various payroll providers, emphasizing their commitment to creating a secure and reliable retirement savings vehicle for cannabis industry workers.Tyler Priest al

Socrates Rosenfeld, CEO and co-founder of Jane Technologies, explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in the cannabis retail sector. Rosenfeld unveils "my high," a cutting-edge platform designed to enhance the in-store experience for both customers and budtenders."My high" leverages AI to provide personalized product recommendations based on customer purchase history and preferences. This information empowers budtenders to offer tailored guidance, elevating customer service and fostering deeper connections. Rosenfeld emphasizes that the platform complements, rather than replaces, the expertise of budtenders, enhancing their ability to cater to individual needs.The conversation addresses the unique challenges of the cannabis industry, including stringent ID verification requirements. Rosenfeld highlights how AI can streamline these processes, creating a smoother and more efficient shopping experience. He envisions a future where technology seamlessly integrates with the

This in-depth discussion with Jay Virdi, the Chief Sales Officer for Specialty Practices at Hub International, provides a comprehensive overview of the insurance landscape for the cannabis industry in 2025.The cannabis industry faces unique financial pressures, including inflation, rising interest rates, and specific tax burdens like the 280E tax code. Jay Virdi emphasizes the need for robust risk management strategies to navigate these challenges and ensure business continuity. He outlines the various insurable risks cannabis companies must consider, from property damage and business interruption to directors and officers liability. Virdi also explores alternative risk transfer options, such as captives, risk retention groups, and parametric insurance, offering innovative solutions for companies seeking to optimize their risk management approach.With the increasing reliance on technology, cybersecurity is paramount for cannabis businesses. Virdi stresses the importance of strong cybersecurity protocols and d

David Vaillencourt, CEO of GMP Collective, discusses the critical role of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in the cannabis industry. David and host [Brasco's Name] delve into the impact of GMP standards on consumer safety, international trade, and building a sustainable cannabis market. They explore the implications of the Cannabis Standards and Regulations Act (CSRA), a Senate bill pushing for ASTM standards and FDA oversight of cannabinoid manufacturers.This conversation addresses the challenges of inconsistent lab testing results and how GMP certification can improve accuracy and reliability. David provides valuable insights on preventing product recalls by establishing a framework for quality control and risk mitigation. Furthermore, he examines the importance of GMP compliance for competing in the global cannabis landscape and provides practical advice for cannabis businesses on integrating quality management systems and best practices.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy &