Weed Wonks’ Post

What are your biggest predictions for the cannabis industry in 2024?

What is working - and what isn't - in cannabis policy? In the latest Weed Wonks, Jordan Wellington hosts Erik Gundersen, founder and principal of ERG Strategies, and Mackenzie Slade, MPH, executive director of Cannabis Public Policy Consulting, for a long discussion about how cannabis policy seeks to balance public safety and market stability, the role of science and data in new market formulation, and what it takes to get businesses licensed in a manner that creates viable legal cannabis markets. Check it out here: https://lnkd.in/g7qTCyAB

Join us as we embark on an enlightening journey through the ever-evolving world of cannabis. In this episode, we've teamed up with Mike Hassell, CEO of Elevated Strategies Consulting, to unravel the complex tapestry of the #cannabis industry. We dive deep into the shifting tides of legalization, the art and science of cannabis cultivation, and how societal views on this once-taboo topic are rapidly changing. Together, we tackle the pressing issues: the legal paradoxes surrounding cannabis, the critical role of industry consultants, and how cultivation methods impact product quality. We also shed light on the legal hurdles and social challenges the industry faces, emphasizing the need for a balanced and thoughtful approach to the commercialization of cannabis. This episode isn't just about cannabis; it's a reflection of its transformation from a stigmatized substance to a multifaceted product with significant social, legal, and economic implications. So, tune in, join the conversation, and gain a fresh perspective on the cannabis industry with us! #cannabiscommunity #cannabiscultivation #cannabislegalization https://lnkd.in/giTA_pFH

It appears that the OCM is facing allegations of retaliatory enforcement against industry stakeholders who have voiced criticisms about the state’s handling of the legal marijuana market. Concerns about potential retaliation include the fear of losing or being denied licenses and experiencing selective enforcement. Ruben Lindo, an entrepreneur and founder of Blak Mar Farms, suggests that there’s an enforcement bias against those who speak out. Similarly, Jenny Argie, a licensed processor in the New York cannabis market, noticed an increase in illicit products and voiced her concerns. Despite her efforts to operate within the legal framework, she feels the state’s inaction towards illicit products is problematic. These concerns have been heightened by recent events, including the OCM’s first recall of a cannabis product and subsequent actions, which are bringing these issues to the forefront. The situation is complicated further by allegations involving a top state official who is perceived as hostile towards individuals disagreeing with the OCM’s methods. This situation seems to reflect broader tensions within the emerging legal cannabis market in New York.

Have you heard about the cannabis lawsuit brewing in D.C.? It's a novel approach to combating unlicensed sales. Today, LJ Dawson from The Outlaw Report joined me on Cultivated Live on Cultivated Media to talk about the lawsuit, its approach, and who is involved. Full episode in the comments. #cannabisnews #cannabisindustry

On this compelling episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel", we take a deep dive into the vibrant and intricate cannabis landscape of our nation's capital. It's a story of progress, entrepreneurship, and advocacy—featuring the indomitable Lisa Scott. Since 2016, Lisa has been on the frontlines, shaping D.C.'s cannabis culture. And now, she joins Montel to shed light on the development and challenges within D.C.'s tumultuous marijuana milieu. Key topics we cover in this episode: Lisa's Roots: As a D.C. local, Lisa brings insider insights and personal narratives to the evolution of cannabis legislation in the capital. Legal Loops and Hoops: From Initiative 59 to the Barr Amendment blockade and the breakthrough of Initiative 71—learn how D.C. residents have navigated the complex path towards legal cannabis. Edible Endeavors: Discover the sweet and savory taste of revolution with Lisa's delectable cannabis edibles company, Bud Appetit. Screenwriting for Change: Lisa's creativity transcends to the screen, turning her seasoned cannabis experiences into captivating stories. House 51 and Accessibility: How accessible is legal cannabis in D.C. today and what does House 51 mean for the future? Cannabis Construct: An in-depth look into D.C.'s social equity program for entrepreneurs in the cannabis space. Community Voices: Explore the efforts of the D.C. Cannabis Business Association in fostering an inclusive industry environment. Lisa also spills the beans on her latest ventures and what the horizon holds for cannabis in Washington, D.C. Whether you're a cannabis enthusiast, advocate, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the intersectionality of policy and pot—this episode has something for everyone. Tune in to be enlightened, inspired, and a part of the conversation that’s shaping the face of legal cannabis in D.C. and beyond. It's time to get real, it's time to get informed, it's time to get blunt with Montel! #washingtondc #dccannabis #mmj #mmjcommunity #420 #change #education #dclife https://lnkd.in/eM46buvY

Aaron Smith, CEO of the National Cannabis Industry Association shares invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis policy, federal reclassification, and the NCIA's mission to drive industry growth. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, this episode offers a deep dive into the exciting world of cannabis. Don't miss out: web.kayapush.com/3IlVAiA #CannabisPolicy #FederalReclassification #IndustryInsights

On this compelling episode of "Let's Be Blunt with Montel", we take a deep dive into the vibrant and intricate cannabis landscape of our nation's capital. It's a story of progress, entrepreneurship, and advocacy—featuring the indomitable Lisa Scott. Since 2016, Lisa has been on the frontlines, shaping D.C.'s cannabis culture. And now, she joins Montel to shed light on the development and challenges within D.C.'s tumultuous marijuana milieu. Key topics we cover in this episode: Lisa's Roots: As a D.C. local, Lisa brings insider insights and personal narratives to the evolution of cannabis legislation in the capital. Legal Loops and Hoops: From Initiative 59 to the Barr Amendment blockade and the breakthrough of Initiative 71—learn how D.C. residents have navigated the complex path towards legal cannabis. Edible Endeavors: Discover the sweet and savory taste of revolution with Lisa's delectable cannabis edibles company, Bud Appetit. Screenwriting for Change: Lisa's creativity transcends to the screen, turning her seasoned cannabis experiences into captivating stories. House 51 and Accessibility: How accessible is legal cannabis in D.C. today and what does House 51 mean for the future? Cannabis Construct: An in-depth look into D.C.'s social equity program for entrepreneurs in the cannabis space. Community Voices: Explore the efforts of the D.C. Cannabis Business Association in fostering an inclusive industry environment. Lisa also spills the beans on her latest ventures and what the horizon holds for cannabis in Washington, D.C. Whether you're a cannabis enthusiast, advocate, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the intersectionality of policy and pot—this episode has something for everyone. Tune in to be enlightened, inspired, and a part of the conversation that’s shaping the face of legal cannabis in D.C. and beyond. It's time to get real, it's time to get informed, it's time to get blunt with Montel! #DCCannabis #Initiative71 #CannabisAdvocacy #BudAppetit #CannabisEntrepreneur #SocialEquity #DCWeedCommunity https://lnkd.in/ext7Wx_h

Let's talk about the illicit cannabis markets in California and New York being the actual diverse markets. If that doesn't support that opening the market up by removing limited licensing, excessive start-up costs and burn rates, reducing barriers to entry, and cutting back on the very costly overburdensome regulations is how we achieve social equity, I don't know what does.