As a massive federal hammer prepares to fall on the hemp industry, progressive states are throwing operators a regulatory lifeline—just as the legal cannabis market faces its own "Big Tobacco" reckoning.

A newly filed federal class-action lawsuit targets major Chicago-based operators like Cresco Labs and Green Thumb Industries, accusing them of "Big Tobacco"-style deceptive marketing that downplays the psychotropic risks of high-THC products.

Yet, against this turbulent backdrop, Midwestern lawmakers are aggressively reshaping the market. Facing a looming November 2026 federal ban on potent hemp products, Minnesota has enacted a landmark omnibus bill that allows hemp business owners to dual-license and pivot directly into the regulated cannabis market.

Similarly, Illinois lawmakers are advancing a massive industry overhaul (HB 5784) designed to ease financial burdens on smaller social equity operators while building parallel transitional pathways for hemp companies. By allowing these industries to consolidate, states are creating a vital legal gateway for hemp businesses to survive under the umbrella of the regulated cannabis market before federal workarounds vanish entirely.

Blunt Business zeroes in on major developments unfolding on the congressional front. It highlights how impending federal rescheduling could significantly alter medical cannabis policies within the Veterans Administration, potentially expanding access for military veterans by allowing VA doctors to discuss and document use, as well as refer patients to state-approved programs.

Additionally, we break down the bipartisan BUILD Act (Building Unrivaled Infrastructure and Long-Term Development Act), a piece of transportation legislation moving toward a House floor vote. The bill directives mandate federal agencies to invest $110 million to research poly-substance impairment and establish standardized, evidence-based driving limits, addressing the long-standing scientific flaws and regional inconsistencies currently plaguing roadside testing.

Blunt Business tears apart the "bunk" science being weaponized by mainstream outlets like Reuters and The Guardian. By interrogating the raw data behind a widely cited Lancet Psychiatry study, the program exposes a collection of massive research failures—including tiny sample sizes, high risks of researcher bias, and a reliance on pharmaceutical synthetics that bear no resemblance to what consumers actually use.

We call out the "misinformation machine" funded by Big Pharma and shifts the focus to the real story: new evidence linking legalization to crime reduction and the definitive countdown to Virginia’s retail market launch in 2027.

Robert M. DiPisa from Cole Schotz discusses recent developments in the cannabis industry in New York and New Jersey, with a focus on concerns about third-party advertising leading to consumer confusion. Legal challenges such as Leafly litigation and supply chain issues due to licensing delays were discussed. Additionally, insights were shared on proposed bills for psilocybin legalization in New Jersey for medicinal purposes. Robert highlighted his firm's emphasis on serving clients in the east coast region within these markets, providing a comprehensive view of the legal landscapes impacting cannabis businesses in both states and outlining key challenges and opportunities for industry stakeholders.

We dive into the world of investment with Will McDonough, a titan in the financial industry and co-founder of Nancan Companies, as well as Chairman and Founder of Corestone Capital. With a track record spanning across continents and sectors, McDonough's insights are invaluable.

In this episode, we explore McDonough's journey through the financial industry, from managing billions at Goldman Sachs to co-founding ventures like Atlas Mara. We delve into his foray into cannabis investments, discussing the strategic moves and considerations behind portfolio entries.

McDonough shares his perspectives on emerging markets, including Green Energy Metals, the EV Market, and Bitcoin, shedding light on his approach to identifying opportunities and taking calculated risks.

We also explore McDonough's recent ventures into the adult beverages market with Nancan Companies. We discuss the launch of Nantucket LONGBIRD™ drinks, infused with hemp and CBD, and McDonough elaborates on the flavor profiles and the company's focus on serving the Massachusetts cannabis market.

Finally, we tackle the topic of investing in cannabis, analyzing the recent performance of cannabis stocks and the potential rewards and risks associated with this volatile market.

Matthew Ginder, Partner in the Cannabis Law practice group at Greenspoon Marder talks about Florida's adult use cannabis legalization, with a focus on achieving voter approval for Amendment Three in 2024. Matt Ginder and Brasco debated THC restrictions, consumption locations, and industry support, highlighting concerns about opposition from healthcare industries and the importance of strategic messaging by Smart and Safe Florida. They contrasted failed ballot initiatives with Smart and Safe's streamlined approach, addressing legislative challenges and market influence concerns. The meeting highlighted regulatory hurdles, industry influence, and the strategic lessons guiding Smart and Safe Florida's approach post-legalization, including legislative discretion, industry funding impact, public messaging strategies, and tribal involvement under Amendment Three. Compliance efforts by current operators were commended for maintaining industry standards and perception.

Blunt Business welcomes Michael Wang, Co-CEO and CFO with ISPIRE, a company specializing in e-cigarettes and cannabis vaping products. Discussions included collaborations with Hidden Hills, new device launches like Switch One, and partnerships with Burna Boy. Safety measures, regulatory challenges, and quality assurance with ISO and GMP certifications were highlighted. Market trends indicated a rise in vaping products in cannabis sales, with projections of vaping reaching up to 50% of retail sales. Strategic global expansion plans were explored through partnerships outside North America. I Spire's role as an innovator in hardware design for over 400 brands without direct branding association was emphasized, showcasing their forward-thinking strategies for staying ahead in the industry.

Blunt Business welcomes Sundie Seefried, CEO, Safe Harbor Financial to talk about Safe Harbor Financial's recent operations and future plans. Seefried highlights the company's successful earnings call, showcasing an 85.3% revenue increase in 2023 and strategic moves to expand services and launch new lending products. We delve into topics such as lines of credit for clients, challenges like 280E tax burdens, and the impact of rising interest rates. They explore underwriting requirements, lines of credit based on cash flow analysis, and reliability factors setting Safe Harbor Financial apart in supporting cannabis businesses.

We also talk about possibilities post-280E burden relief, reinvestment options after descheduling, and market dynamics related to taxation changes affecting business growth strategies. Both parties emphasize the importance of advocacy for business integrity and compliance in the industry. Seefried's company is noted for prioritizing serving members over profit-driven motives, echoing principles of a credit union. Brasco appreciates this approach for offering better access to lending and services than traditional banks supporting cannabis businesses.

Criticism is directed at government inefficiencies in managing tax revenue from the cannabis industry, with concerns about licensing fees overshadowing potential tax revenue gains. Despite legal complexities, both parties stress the importance of selecting reliable partners for sustainable business operations. The exchange concludes with plans for future communication regarding shared insights into industry practices.

Sara Gullickson, Founder and CEO from CB Advisors offers a sneak peek into her upcoming presentation at the Lucky Leaf Expo, where she will unveil strategies for executing operational plans for a successful cannabis launch in Minnesota. As the state gears up to join the ranks of legalized cannabis territories, her expertise promises to shed light on navigating this burgeoning market.

We also tackle the ongoing debate surrounding the licensing process in Minnesota. With the proposed changes aiming to prioritize social equity applicants, Gullickson shares her thoughts on the merits of both merit-based scoring systems and lottery-based approaches. Drawing on her extensive experience in the industry, she offers valuable advice for businesses looking to thrive amidst these regulatory shifts.

Furthermore, we explore the implications of temporary licenses and their potential impact on fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry. With Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's ambitious timeline to open dispensaries by 2025, Gullickson weighs in on the state's progress and assesses the framework laid out by the Office of Cannabis Management.

Blunt Business discusses standardizing laboratory practices in the cannabis industry for accurate testing. We welcome Breanna Neff, Founder and Chief Food Scientist at brelixi, who shares insights on vetting labs for data integrity.

Breanna introduced brelixi's products like THC/CBD powders for fast-acting functional solutions in daily life. NFL-funded research on cannabinoids as pain management alternatives, with two trials approved, was discussed. Neff also detailed brelixi's customizable shakes with low sugar content and unique electrolyte blends.

We discuss the importance of education, diverse perspectives, and destigmatizing cannabis was stressed for potential funding rounds, as well as future product visibility strategies and collaboration enthusiasm.

Blunt Business welcomes the CEO of Motif Labs Founder Mario Naric. We discuss the current state of the Canadian cannabis market, with Mario sharing insights on Motif Labs' success in the vapes and infused pre-rolls market. We highlight the significance of the upcoming review of the 2018 Cannabis Act, while later discussing the ongoing review of the Federal Cannabis Act and its impact on public health, consumption patterns, and indigenous communities. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities of navigating cannabis regulations in Canada, emphasizing the importance of compliance and exploring potential export opportunities.

We continue our discussion with Cat Packer, Director of Drug Markets and Legal Regulation, Drug Policy Alliance about the Biden Administration's proposal to reschedule cannabis from schedule one to schedule three under the Controlled Substances Act, arguing that while this move is significant, it falls short of the promise of decriminalization made by President Biden. 

We also the federal government's recent analysis acknowledging the medical uses of marijuana, but also emphasized the need for further action to address the ongoing stigma surrounding marijuana use. We also discuss strategies for ensuring equity in cannabis licensing, including prioritizing social equity applicants, providing resources and education, and addressing predatory practices.

Cat Packer, Director of Drug Markets and Legal Regulation, Drug Policy Alliance joins Blunt Business for a 2-part interview where we first discuss the need for a comprehensive approach to cannabis policy reform that prioritizes social equity and harm reduction. We talk about the importance of addressing social equity concerns, such as the concentration of unlicensed activity in local jurisdictions, and responsible and equitable enforcement strategies to encourage consumers and businesses to participate in the legal market.

We also delve into Cat's experience from her previous tenure where she served as the first executive director of the city of Los Angeles Department of cannabis regulation, leading efforts to advise and implement cannabis business Licensing and Regulation in the world's largest cannabis market.

David Spang, co-founder of Coastal Green Wellness, dives deep into the turbulent legislative landscape of the Southeast cannabis market. Spang discusses the high-stakes battle against impending hemp bans in South Carolina, advocating for comprehensive regulation over total prohibition to protect both small businesses and consumer safety.

He highlights the human impact of these products—sharing moving stories of how they serve as vital alternatives to pharmaceuticals—and introduces his "out-of-the-box" beverage brand, Nine Dot, which aims to normalize cannabis consumption in social settings. Ultimately, Spang issues a passionate call to action for lawmakers to listen to their constituents and embrace the economic and wellness potential of a transparent, well-regulated hemp industry.

Paula Savchenko, Esq. Founder, Cannacore Group discusses cannabis licensing and regulatory compliance and the challenges and opportunities therein.

Robert Hoban, Chair, Cannabis Practice, Clark Hill discusses the current state of cannabis legalization and industry development. We also discuss recent halts in licensing due to court decisions and Robert sharing his firm's expansion into the European Union. We also highlight discussed difficulties faced in New York's licensing process, challenges in social equity licensing, and legal and regulatory obstacles. We also debate the impact of scheduling marijuana on businesses and public health, weighting potential benefits while raising concerns..

Blunt Business welcomes Jeffrey Harris, the CEO of springbig to discuss the importance of loyalty programs in the cannabis industry, We follow up on Springbig's growth and expansion to over 3000 retail locations. We also look into the challenges and opportunities in the industry, including investment strategies, regulatory changes, and tax benefits. Both emphasized the need for convenient payment solutions and loyalty programs to drive industry growth.

We go through Cannabis industry gift cards and loyalty programs, loyalty rewards program design., retailer loyalty programs and bonus points during holidays., loyalty programs and customer expectations in business., The challenges of taking a company public during a stock market downturn and Cannabis industry growth and challenges

Adam Wilks, CEO of Carma HoldCo is back on Blunt Business to talk about his work operating his global licensing company behind the nation’s fastest-growing celebrity brands, working with icons like Mike Tyson (Tyson 2.0), Ric Flair (Ric Flair Drip and Wooo Energy drinks), Future (EVOL) and Hulk Hogan (Immortal) to turn their cannabis brands into lucrative businesses.

Blunt Business speaks with the dynamic managing partners of Galaxy 1, Rick and Michelle Ringold. We hear about their option to enter the Illinois cannabis market through the social equity pathway given met the qualifying criteria but has set a new standard. Join us as they share their insights into building craft grow facilities that support non-multi-state operators, emphasizing their commitment to social equity in the cannabis industry.

Discover how some MSOS could take advantage of struggling social equity licensees can bypass the Illinois social equity cannabis lottery program by buying their licenses. As the first independent social equity craft cannabis grower to commence operations in Illinois, Galaxy 1 is making waves, with a grand opening scheduled for February.

Learn about Rick Ringold's military background and status as a disabled veteran, and business insights from Michelle Ringold, a certified public accountant with her own firm. Together, they offer a powerful combination of expertise, experience, and dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable cannabis landscape.

David Standa, partner at Greenspoon Marder, takes us on a journey through the intricacies of Minnesota's adult-use cannabis rollout. As a seasoned advisor in the cannabis industry, Mr. Standa shares insights into the challenges faced by the state, from issues of illegal possession to delayed dispensary openings and the crucial role played by the Cannabis Control Board.

Delving into the peculiarities of Minnesota's cannabis program, Mr. Standa sheds light on social equity licensing, the need for a comprehensive licensing system, and unique features that set Minnesota apart from other states. Anticipating demand-driven success, he discusses the potential for dispensaries in northern Minnesota near state borders, including Fargo-Moorhead, Duluth, St. Cloud, and Mankato.

Backed by a study revealing high cannabis consumption rates among Minnesotans, Mr. Standa explores the state's unique social equity requirements, including the 100% ownership mandate for applicants, and the challenges they face in securing financing, recognized by the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).

The podcast also touches on the potential legislative amendments suggested by the OCM, aiming to address financing hurdles for social equity applicants. Mr. Standa provides insights into Minnesota's ability to implement a competitive licensing system and the slow pace of government decision-making.

Discover the impact of social equity provisions on Indigenous tribes in Minnesota, allowing them autonomy in opening dispensaries and cultivating cannabis. Uncover the dynamics of home growth and possession in the state, with a focus on the challenges faced by rural areas with limited dispensaries.

The episode concludes with fascinating stories of success from tribal nation dispensaries, featuring Red Lake Nation's triumph despite geographical challenges and high demand leading to the shutdown of online sales.

Blunt Business speaks with Christian Chavez, the seasoned CEO of Statis Cannabis Co., who brings 17 years of real estate expertise, including a robust 5-year stint in the cannabis industry. We delve deep into the intricate world of cannabis licensing, funding, and social equity challenges, specifically focusing on the burgeoning cannabis scene in New York.

The discussion unfolds through key topics such as social equity licensing, obstacles faced in obtaining cannabis licenses in New York, and the unique challenges posed by the bustling metropolis of New York City. Christian shares invaluable insights into the complexities of operating cannabis retail dispensaries in the city and sheds light on his journey navigating the social equity fund landscape for cannabis businesses in New York.

The episode also addresses a poignant story from NPR, highlighting the financial struggles faced by social equity licensees in New York, grappling with high interest rates on loans and mounting legal fees. Christian opens up about the slow and frustrating process of obtaining the $200 million social equity fund in New York, providing a firsthand account of the hurdles and setbacks.

As the conversation unfolds, the podcast explores diverse perspectives on cannabis social equity funding from investors, with opinions ranging from acknowledging the high-risk nature of the industry to critiquing it as potentially predatory.

Blunt Business gets an exclusive account on Opening a Dispensary After Winning The Illinois Social Equity Cannabis Lottery with one of those social equity applicants. Shankar Ramakrishnan is COO of Indus365, the company behind Mystic Greenz. . Central Illinois has been transformed by the opening of Mystic Greenz’ inaugural dispensary in Macon County, marking a significant shift in the region’s cannabis landscape. Located near the Decatur Conference Center and Interstate 72, this new establishment is poised to become a prominent hub for individuals in the Greater Decatur vicinity who are keen on exploring cannabis offerings. Shankar fills us in on the obstacles of going through the lottery process.,

Blunt Business speaks with Dr. Benjamin Caplan, a distinguished family medicine doctor and member of the American Medical Association, who has overseen the healthcare journey of over 250,000 patients exploring the benefits of medical cannabis. Dr. Caplan recently published "The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook," delving into the safe use of cannabis for managing various conditions like cognitive decline, cancer, chronic pain, depression, diabetes, insomnia, and headaches. Discover the effort behind building this comprehensive guide and gain valuable insights into incorporating cannabis treatment into everyday health.

Learn about the recent scientific review recommending the reclassification of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, potentially opening new medical possibilities. Dr. Caplan shares his perspective on the implications this could have, including the potential end of IRS Section 280e restrictions.

Addressing federal scientists catching up with medical knowledge, Dr. Caplan reflects on whether the recent conclusions align with what doctors have known for years. Finally, hear Dr. Caplan's response to criticisms highlighted by The New York Times, addressing concerns about the strength and frequency of marijuana use, its ties to psychiatric problems, and the evolving landscape of therapeutic claims.

Brian Sullivan, CEO of Indoor Ag-Con fills us in on details of their upcoming Indoor Ag-Con, the premier trade show and conference dedicated to vertical farming, greenhouse, and controlled environment agriculture. Returning to Caesars Forum in Las Vegas on March 11-12 for its 11th annual event  

For the first time, Indoor Ag-Con introduces a dedicated Cannabis Conference track for cultivators. Sullivan provides a sneak peek into the exciting sessions lined up, covering topics such as the evolving cannabis landscape, vertical racking systems for efficiency, MSO evolution, terpene excellence, and integrating cannabis cultivation with traditional horticulture.

The conference agenda places a significant focus on Controlled Environmental Agriculture (CEA), reflecting the evolving landscape of crops grown indoors. Sullivan discusses how agricultural technology advancements and the growing demand for local food are driving this evolution across North America

Scot Crow and Benjam Sobczak of Dickinson Wright tare back this week to discuss the industry’s significant $6 billion debt crisis and the necessary survival strategies for compromised companies.

The debt crisis is separate from 280E tax liabilities, rooted in market volatility (like the sharp price drop in Michigan) and poor financial projections made by both operators and lenders. For operators facing default, the critical advice is to make an early decision: either cooperate with the lender's efforts or fight, recognizing that fighting carries the high risk of multi-million dollar personal judgment liens due to personal guarantees (PGs) on the loans.

Experts stressed that honesty and transparency are paramount; struggling companies must openly communicate their financial position with existing lenders and be upfront with initial equity investors about the likely washout of their investment.

Blunt Business welcomes back Arthur de Cordova, CEO & Co-Founder of Ziel, who takes us on a journey through the remarkable advancements since our last encounter, specifically highlighting APEX 7. This seventh-generation technology stands as an organic natural kill step, effectively annihilating harmful bacteria in cannabis with minimal THC loss and an impressive 3x throughput compared to competitors. Join us as we explore the fascinating evolution of APEX and the introduction of Ziel's newest RFX solution

We also delve into a recent investigation by NY Cannabis Insider, uncovering risks associated with outdoor cultivation in states like New York. With revelations of high levels of contaminants in products reaching consumers, we explore the regulatory landscape and discuss the apparent violations reported by the publication. How does this impact the industry, and what are the potential risks?

Blunt Business delves into the concept of Fractional CMOs and Prioritizing Marketing Strategy and Execution with Laurie Parfitt, CEO & Principal: of LKP Impact Consulting. 

Laurie works with cannabis and consumer products companies on brand strategy/design, consumer insights, and commercial go-to-market strategy. Parfitt’s background includes experience in large-scale, integrated cross-channel marketing and experience campaigns, including a background in traditional marketing, category development, and sales strategy in an omnichannel environment.

Blunt Business reflects the ongoing congressional gridlock of federal legalization efforts and the need for more voices to reach a larger public to counteract the constant attacks made by lobbying efforts and the negative media coverage. We also look forward to the pending DEA schedule change and what it will bring to the industry in 2024.

Cannabis Podcasts Compared and Contrasted and the pressing subjects as we speak with Sean Hocking, owner of the Karma Koala Podcast and Cannabis Law Report, National Interdisciplinary Cannabis Symposium. 

Sean Hocking boasts a rich and accomplished career spanning over 25 years in the professional and legal publishing, as well as bookselling industry.

His journey began in the late 80s when he took his first steps behind the counter at the Aus Law Book Company Bookshop. Demonstrating dedication and ambition, Sean quickly progressed in his career, taking on the roles of Manager and salesperson for Sydney's indie legal bookseller, "Point of Law," during the early 90s.

In 1996, Sean's career took an international turn as he ventured to London to serve as the Sales Manager for Legalease (UK) until 1999. Returning to Sydney in late 1999, he embarked on an entrepreneurial endeavor, founding Australia's inaugural independent legal news and legal book-selling website, "Excata." Sean's innovative platform gained recognition and was eventually acquired by Lexis Nexis.

His tenure with Lexis Nexis continued until a profound moment during the events of 9/11 prompted Sean to reevaluate his life's priorities. This pivotal realization led him to make a significant decision: upon the birth of his son, he chose to stay at home and channel his energy into launching "Law Librarians News" and "Practice Source.com."

In the years 2018 and 2019, Sean assumed the role of Director at BenchTV / Benchmark Legal Education Sydney, contributing his wealth of knowledge and expertise to these ventures. Beyond his legal publishing ventures, Sean expanded his portfolio by publishing the "Cannabis Law Rpt" and "Law Jnl," managing www.practicesource.com, and establishing himself as the founder of the independent record label, Metal Postcard Records.

Todd Davis, CEO of the Index Corporation and founder of CBD Unlimited, discusses the journey of getting CBD products into major drugstores and the challenges faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of hiring the right people and collaborating with mass retail buyers to pave the way for CBD products to be accepted on store shelves. Todd also highlights the difficulties of advertising CBD products due to strict regulations and the limitations of social media platforms. Despite these challenges, CBD Unlimited has become a leading brand in the industry, with a high rebuy rate and a strong presence in major retailers. Todd also discusses the acquisition of Hyla, a non-nicotine vape company, and the potential growth of the CBD and vape markets.

Blunt Business welcomes Keshawn Warner, the co-founder of Dazed Cannabis who Went From originally Being Arrested For Cannabis To Leading A Multi-Million Dollar Dispensary in Dazed Cannabis. 

Taking cues from legendary hip-hop moments, the atmosphere and branding of Dazed Cannabis infuse old-school vibes with bright and modern elements. From dope merch, curated playlists, celebrity-hosted events, and meet & greets, the brand is bridging the gap between cannabis, entertainment, art, and music. Dazed is a space where you can unwind, have a great time, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Dazed Cannabis is on the precipice of a major brand expansion, with three new dispensaries opening across New York City and Massachusetts this Fall. Additionally, the brand has several collaborations upcoming with like-minded brands across multiple vertices from art, to streetwear, to cannabis. Watch this space.

Katie Neer, Of Counsel at Dickinson & Avella joins us on Blunt Business to discuss New York State and Their Cannabis Compliance Challenges. We go in-depth on a NY Cannabis Insider investigation which found labs were reportedly breaking rules for reporting pesticides and other contaminants as well as companies misreporting numbers and selling cannabis that has failed tests.

We also talk about the education, training, and licensing of social equity applicants and the possibilities that legacy operators can have to participate. Katie is an attorney with a leading New York government affairs law firm, where she assists dozens of clients on NY regulatory compliance issues in heavily regulated industries, including cannabis, gaming, and financial services.

DC Legacy Operators Fight for Cannabis Legalization and Social Equity. Today to dive into this our guest is Terence White, the CEO and founder of the cannabis lifestyle brand Monko and the chairman of the I 71 Committee. We'll be discussing the unique challenges and opportunities of operating a cannabis business in Washington, DC, and the implications for the wider industry.

Jesse Channon, Chief Commercial Officer of The Cannabist Company, discusses the recent rebranding of the company and its plans for national growth. The company, formerly known as Columbia Care, has changed its name to Cannabist to better reflect its focus on the cannabis industry. Channon explains that the rebranding represents a shift from a medical-focused brand to a more retail-oriented brand that serves a diverse consumer base. The company plans to consolidate its retail brands under the Cannabist banner and provide a consistent and innovative retail experience for customers.

Channon also discusses the challenges and opportunities in the cannabis industry, including the need for product consistency and the potential impact of federal legalization.

One of the major challenges faced by the legal cannabis industry in New York is the presence of a thriving illicit market. To discuss this we have a special guest, Jason Little, the lead of the cannabis practice team at Feral Fritz. As of October 4th, the State of New York has opened up the license application window once again. This time, there are five license types available: Cultivator, Processor, Distributor, Retail Dispensary, and Micro Business. Jason Little explains the background behind this decision.

Scot Crow and Benjam Sobczak of the cannabis practice at Dickinson Wright  the impact of federal Schedule III reclassification and the increasing, albeit complex, role of private equity (PE) in the cannabis sector.

Experts agreed that moving to Schedule III, while providing significant tax relief through the repeal of Section 280E, would not immediately open the floodgates to traditional banking services or major PE funds due to continued federal illegality and existing 'sin clauses' in investment documents.

The current influx of specialized lenders and PE is largely driven by necessity, as distressed operators default on unsustainable loans, forcing lenders to take over assets they cannot easily resell.

Pure Spectrum CBD Plays Ball with a Major League Baseball Team as we speak with their CEO Daniel Huerter. The Kansas City Royals are now one of the first MLB teams to officially partner with Pure Spectrum CBD. The new section of Kauffman Stadium isn’t just about cooling down. It’s also a new spot for Royals fans to learn about Dan Huerter’s Pure Spectrum CBD. Pure Spectrum will have ambassadors at the site to educate fans for free during all the Royals home games.

Plus, we have a great discussion on How Branding Is Much More Than Just Marketing with Andreas (“Dre”) Neumann, Jushi Holdings’ Chief Creative Director and GRAMMY® award winner. Dre is the Chief Creative Director of Jushi Holdings and has been at the forefront of advertising, branding, entertainment, and technology for the last three decades. 

In addition to being a known and respected leader in the creative and technology arenas, Dre is known for his photography and work with artists such as Queens of the Stone Age, Iggy Pop, Foo Fighters, ZZ Top, Lenny Kravitz, and many others. He has also been cited as one of the world’s top rock photographers. In 2020, Dre was awarded a GRAMMY® for Best Album Package, recognized for his photographic contribution to Desert Sessions Vols. 11 & 12, which has been described as one of the most mythical, longest-running rock ‘n’ roll mixtape odysseys in existence. It’s the sixth compilation album by the desert rock supergroup Desert Sessions, an art project of Queens of the Stone Age frontman, Josh Homme.

Lift Conferences and Expos Expands Into The United States and we learn more from their Director of Marketing Lisa Petty. The Lift Expo has been a staple in the Canadian cannabis scene since 2016, bringing different aspects of the industry together for networking, education, and merry-making at their annual Toronto and Vancouver events. 

The Expo has undergone several changes over the years, with new ownership and branding and, like all large events, a hiatus during COVID. The event remains the same industry staple, though, with people from across Canada flocking to those two cities to ensure they don’t miss out. 

The Lift Expo was initially a part of Lift Cannabis (and briefly Lift & Co), an online news and review site for the industry, from 2014 to 2020. The Expo was purchased by a new owner in 2020, MCI Group, an international leader in event management. Following a hiatus due to COVID restrictions, the Lift Expo returned to Toronto in late 2021 and May 2022, followed by Vancouver in January 2023. Lift's Director of Marketing Lisa Petty fills us in. 

We also spoke with Lane Radbill, Chief Marketing Officer of Highsman. Highsman is the official cannabis lifestyle brand of one of the most electric NFL running backs of the century, Ricky Williams. The Highsman Lifestyle Shop was built at the intersection of comfort and functionality with accents from a heritage rich in sports.

Mike McDonald is President at Dablicator and how their patented oil applicator continues to connect with more brands. Experienced in consumer products manufacturing, finance, marketing, and sales, Mike has guided Ammonite’s rapid development from a start-up to one of the most innovative hardware platforms in the cannabis industry.

Originally created by one of California’s leading cannabis brands, Dablicator partners with vertically integrated operators and premium extract brands to deliver the easiest, most versatile way to experience cannabis. Their patented Dablicator™ oil applicator is designed to replace a messy syringe and is ideal for all oil types including live rosin, solventless, live resin, RSO, distillate, hemp CBD, and more. The Dablicator brand partner program provides a turnkey solution with fully brandable hardware, packaging, and marketing materials that drive product innovation and accretive retail revenue with your brand and your oil.

Dr. Jim Woody, CEO and Director of 180 Life Sciences, a clinical-stage biotechnology company. 180 Life Sciences aims to develop SCAs that are safe, non-psychoactive, and formulated to improve efficacy and bioavailability – a real alternative to unregulated cannabidiol (CBD). Through this program, 180 Life Sciences is working on orally available SCAs, not derived from plants, to address the deleterious issues of medical cannabis. If successful, these SCAs could offer a robustly consistent and safe dosage that allows patient intake to be carefully controlled.

Millennial environmental trailblazer Eloisa Lewis is this generation’s fiercest champion and a changemaker. A climate scientist and founder of New Climate Culture, Lewis leads a think tank that designs “disaster-proof” human environments using biomimicry and low-cost, high-yield protocols. 

With so much knowledge to impart with a distinct sense of urgency, Lewis is a frequent speaker at global events on topics ranging from redesigning and rewilding built environments to the future of psychedelics (The National Psychedelic Conference 2022) to the role of permaculture in preventing natural disasters (Natural Disasters Expo 2023). https://www.newclimateculture.com/

Dr. Safiya Lyn-Lassiter recently joined the interesting debate focusing on the effectiveness of medicinal marijuana (MMJ) use among Florida residents. As an advocate of MMJ, she created a user-friendly website (www.askdoctorlyn.com) to identify, evaluate, and recommend MMJ for qualifying patients.

Blunt Business is joined by David Nathan MD, Founder, Past President, and Current Board Member for Doctors for Cannabis Regulation (DFCR). 

David founded the Doctors for Cannabis Regulation, the first national physicians’ association dedicated to the legalization and effective regulation of cannabis in the United States. 

We learn how, prominent public health, social justice, and patient advocacy groups, are compelling cannabis policymakers and regulators from the U.S. and around the world to adopt a universal International Intoxicating Cannabinoid Product Symbol (IICPS) for all cannabis product packaging.

Blunt Business welcomes back Larry Scheffler to update us on their recent membership interest purchase agreement to acquire all of the ownership interests of VidaCann, LLC. giving Planet 13 30 Florida stores plus a state-of-the-art Cultivation and processing facility with the capacity to supply up to 60 dispensaries. We also learn more about their first Nevada State Consumption Lounge License.

The burgeoning cannabis industry, once heralded as a beacon of economic growth and innovation, is now facing a significant red flag that bears striking similarities to the legal action taken against the creators of RoundUp. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) once cannabis is federally legalized could launch into a formal investigation into pesticide use in the cannabis industry amid mounting concerns over potential health risks and environmental damage.

The EPA's eventual inquiry focuses on the utilization of pesticides in cannabis cultivation, which would echo the landmark legal battles waged against RoundUp's manufacturer, Monsanto, in the previous decade. While the cannabis industry has experienced explosive growth and widespread legalization in recent years, the regulatory framework surrounding pesticide use has struggled to keep pace.

The EPA could allege that some commonly used pesticides in the cannabis sector pose serious threats to human health and the environment.

The EPA's inquiry is a complex and highly charged process, with both proponents and opponents presenting scientific studies and expert testimonies to support their positions. This legal drama could have profound implications for the cannabis industry, which, in recent years, has evolved into a multibillion-dollar economic juggernaut.

Cases could be reminiscent of the legal battles that ensnared Monsanto over its glyphosate-based herbicide, RoundUp. In those cases, Monsanto faced substantial legal penalties after the product was linked to cancer and environmental damage. The outcome of the cannabis industry's own pesticide controversy remains uncertain, with billions of dollars and the industry's reputation hanging in the balance.

Introducing MAISON BLOOM All-Natural Hemp-Based THC Elevated Seltzers: A Revolutionary Craft Cannabis Beverage

MAISON BLOOM, renowned for its position as a premium craft cannabis beverage beloved by bartenders and mixologists, proudly announces the launch of MAISON BLOOM All-Natural Hemp-Based THC Elevated Seltzers. This release marks an evolution from the brand's established lineage of Strain Specific, Whole Plant, Single Barrel craft cannabis beverages, showcasing an artful fusion of botanical alchemy. Crafted with an exclusive blend of all-natural hemp-based delta-9 THC, THCV, CBD, CBG, CBN, and a proprietary botanical terpene blend, these seltzers epitomize innovation and elevated craftsmanship.

With its pioneering spirit, MAISON BLOOM redefines everyday experiences as the world's first purveyor of craft cannabis-infused beverages. Driven by a commitment to transform well-being and recreation, the brand masterfully combines the enchantment of plant magic with culinary ingenuity. This dedication shines through in their meticulous curation of flavor-forward beverages that feature the finest sun-grown craft cannabis and high-quality plant-based ingredients. The result is a series of offerings that are Strain Specific, Whole Plant, Single Barrel, and consistently irresistible.

David Charles is a growth marketer, storyteller, and serial entrepreneur. Currently, he serves as the Co-Founder, CEO, and COO of MOOD, a surging e-commerce dispensary that produces legal, high-quality THC products tailored to set your mood.

We discuss Cannabis Equipment Challenges and Compliance Issues, including AI integration and automation and more. We speak with David Mantey, editor-in-chief of Cannabis Equipment News Host of the Cannabis Equipment News Podcast, and Editorial Director of Digital Media at Industrial Media

David is the Editorial Director of Digital Media at Industrial Media, a publishing company that owns some of the most recognized websites in the manufacturing industry, including Industrial Equipment News, which has been around since 1933, Manufacturing Business Technology, Manufacturing.net, and Food Manufacturing.

Millions of manufacturing professionals consume Industrial Media content, including manufacturing industry news, deals, insights, product reviews, user reports, and more, monthly, using it to save time and money when researching machinery and accessories and make the best decisions for their manufacturing businesses.

David has been covering the design engineering and manufacturing industries for 15+ years and is responsible for creating and coordinating highly engaging digital and multimedia content across Industrial Media's portfolio.

He played a leading role in the rebirth of Industrial Equipment News, Manufacturing.net, and Food Manufacturing and Co-founded Cannabis Equipment News, Design and Development Today, and Medical Design & Development, news outlets that serve cannabis and design engineering professionals.

Nidhi Handa, founder and CEO of LEUNE, discusses her experience in brand building and marketing, and how it led her to start her own cannabis lifestyle brand. She shares her insights on the importance of understanding the consumer and challenging gender stereotypes in the industry. Nidhi also explains how LEUNE's neutral packaging and universal branding appeal to a wide audience.

Nidhi Handa is the founder and CEO of LEUNE, a California-based lifestyle brand that aims to redefine the narrative surrounding cannabis culture. With a background in luxury brand communications and working with influencers and talent, Nidhi brings a unique perspective to the cannabis industry.

Joe Salome, co-founder of The Georgia Hemp Company and Simple Leaf Wellness, and former CMO of Halcyon Organics, is a respected figure in medical cannabis policy, instrumental in the passage of Georgia’s landmark Haleigh's Hope Act (2014) and the 2019 Georgia’s Hope Act.

The discussion centers on Salome's personal advocacy, which was ignited after witnessing the therapeutic benefits of cannabis in treating his mother's ovarian cancer, fueling his mission to champion natural alternatives. His legislative work was pivotal in incrementally legalizing low-THC oil access and establishing in-state production and distribution in Georgia.

Key topics addressed include the ongoing struggles with federal regulatory clarity regarding hemp, the threat posed by potential bans on hemp extract products to small businesses and the legal market, and the critical need for federal reclassification of cannabis. 

We speak with Ben York, the CEO of Genetica, the Kansas City-based tech company behind Flora AI and their new advanced AI solution, Flora Match. 

The Flora Match platform, designed specifically for the cannabis and CBD industries, offers personalized product recommendations based on an analysis of over 650 million data points, including product components, customer lifestyle factors, and desired effects.

Ben explains that by bridging the data gap, brands can benefit from a more holistic understanding of their consumer base, and consumers can find products that best cater to their needs. This partnership signifies a significant step towards a future where technology and retail merge to provide a seamless, personalized, and efficient cannabis shopping experience.

We discuss California Cannabis Flower Testing with Myron Ronay, Co-founder and CEO of BelCosta Labs. Myron Ronay is the Co-founder and CEO of BelCosta Labs. Myron founded the lab in 2017, with the mission of providing the highest quality, dependable, and timely cannabis testing and analytical services. He has played a vital role in implementing the lab's testing methodology and service offerings, helping BelCosta become one of the most trusted names in lab testing for the cannabis industry and the leading lab for all California cannabis flower testing. 

We also talk about Pest Management, Organic Pesticides, and More For Cannabis and Hemp with Aaron Appleby, Owner of White Coat Laboratories.

Aaron recently Spoke on "Understanding Cannabis Ecology to Better Manipulate Secondary Metabolites and Pest Populations" at NoCo Hemp Expo 2023. 

Recognizing the lack of research and dissemination of information from universities and extension agents to the cannabis industry, Aaron created White Coat Laboratories a Cannabis research and consulting business focused on solving industry-wide problems at a farm scale. As a Certified Crop Adviser, Aaron is licensed to consult on all aspects of Cannabis production, but a special interest and talent of his is creating custom-integrated pest management programs specific to each company’s site of production and cultural practices. Aaron utilizes conservation biocontrol tactics, to create habitats including native plants that are attractive to native beneficial arthropods and deter pest species in a push/pull approach to combating pests. Working with several cannabis producers, White Coat Laboratories is also studying plant volatiles (including several terpenes commonly associated with cannabis) and their involvement in plant defenses as well as arthropod attraction or deterrence.

Josh Kesselman and Scheril Powell discuss the new RAW seeds fellowship for legacy cannabis operators. RAW Rolling Papers (BBK/HBI), the independent international brand of high-quality rolling papers and smoking innovations, announced today a donation of $100,000 to The JUSTÜS Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization that is dedicated to facilitating the entry of legacy cannabis operators to the legal cannabis market.

The RAW Seeds Fellowships aim to provide opportunity to legacy cannabis operators - those involved in the cannabis industry prior to its legalization - who are trying to navigate the new, legal market.