The Ganjapreneur.com Podcast

In this episode of The Ganjapreneur Podcast, host TG Branfalt is joined by Regina Smith, founder and co-owner of The Plant, a licensed dispensary in Yonkers, New York. Regina shares her journey from a background in retail and baking to navigating the challenges of the cannabis industry. She discusses the complex social equity licensing process in New York, how The Plant is building trust and community in a competitive market, and the importance of education and customer service in the evolving cannabis landscape. Regina also touches on the role of legal dispensaries in the community, and how creative partnerships with local businesses are key to success. Tune in below to hear her inspiring story and insights on the future of cannabis retail, or scroll down for the full transcript!

Ganjapreneur is pleased to introduce our first syndicated episode of Highly Enlightened, hosted by Jon Purow. With this show, Jon interviews cannabis business leaders and investors to shed light on what it takes to survive and thrive in this industry. You can find more episodes of Highly Enlightened on Buzzsprout. Tiffany Chin has 13 years of experience in the entertainment space, working with world famous talent including Snoop Dogg, Eddie Murphy, and Martha Stewart. She has helped artists and talent traverse out of their traditional lane(s) of fame by way of strategic branding partnerships, including brands such as Adidas, AirBnB, Reddit, Tanqueray, Netflix and HBO. In working closely with Snoop Dogg, Chin co-founded Casa Verde Capital in 2014, as well as Leafs By Snoop (LBS) in 2015, the first widely available celebrity cannabis brand and Snoop Dogg’s first venture into the branded cannabis space. Chin guest lectures at UCLA for MBA marketing classes, and has consulted with many cannabis agencies and br

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur podcast, host TG Branfalt is joined by Brandon Wyatt, Esq. and Todd Hughes, co-founders of BCB Mastermind, an executive training program designed to propel minority-owned cannabis and hemp businesses to new heights. In this episode, they discuss the critical barriers that entrepreneurs face in the cannabis space, from access to capital and regulatory challenges to the overlooked potential of industrial hemp. With backgrounds in law, engineering, and advocacy, Brandon and Todd bring a holistic approach to business strategy, emphasizing community-driven solutions, policy reform, and the power of sustainable innovation. Tune in for a deep dive into the intersections of social equity, business leadership, and the future of hemp beyond consumption.

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur Podcast, host TG Branfalt is joined by Josh Wurzer, co-founder of SC Labs, one of the longest-running cannabis testing laboratories in the industry. In this episode, they explore the evolution of cannabis testing, from measuring cannabinoids and terpenes to detecting contaminants like pesticides and mold. Josh shares insights into regulatory challenges, lab fraud, the importance of terpene profiles, and how the industry can better educate consumers to prioritize quality over THC percentages. For anyone curious about cannabis testing and analysis, this episode offers an enlightening look at the critical role labs play in ensuring cannabis safety and integrity.

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur podcast, host TG Branfalt is joined by Witt Rabon, co-founder and COO, and Jamar Brown, co-founder and President of Brand Development for DRO, a Colorado-based cannabis lifestyle brand that has been redefining cannabis culture since its launch in 2014. DRO stands out by weaving authentic storytelling, cultural identity, and bold design into its clothing and cannabis products. In this episode, Witt and Jamar share the origins of DRO, reflecting on how their personal journeys—from professional sports and corporate branding to a shared love for cannabis—helped shape the company’s unique voice and vision. They delve into how DRO transitioned from an idea sparked during their time as coworkers to a thriving lifestyle brand blending cannabis and fashion. Other topics discussed in this interview include: The importance of connecting with consumers through authentic, relatable stories The role of design in bridging cannabis culture with mainstream audiences The importance of advo

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur Podcast, host TG Branfalt speaks with Tom Lauerman, better known as Farmer Tom, a longtime cannabis advocate, organic cultivator, and educator. As the founder of Farmer Tom Organics, Tom has worn many hats in his cannabis career, from medical grower and activist to consultant and federal educator. In this insightful conversation, Tom reflects on his decades-long journey in the world of grassroots cannabis activism, including being arrested for cultivation in California, connecting with early pioneers like Dennis Peron and Brownie Mary, teaching federal scientists about organic cannabis farming, and more. Tom also dives into the future of cannabis, offering his thoughts on the potential impact of federal rescheduling, the rise of pharmaceutical involvement in the industry, and the importance of patient rights and home grows. Whether you’re a home cultivator, medical patient, or curious about how the federal government is preparing for a change in policy, this episode delive

In this episode, TG Branfalt sits down with Morgan Fox, Political Director for NORML, one of the nation's leading cannabis advocacy organizations. Morgan brings over a decade of experience in cannabis policy reform to the conversation, discussing the Biden administration's announcement on cannabis rescheduling and the real-world impact it may—or may not—have on the cannabis industry, consumers, and criminal justice. Morgan also sheds light on the intricate political dynamics that influence cannabis policy at the federal level, from potential barriers in the rescheduling process to the ongoing battle for meaningful reform in Congress. Whether you're interested in cannabis law, industry tax issues, or the future of legalization, this episode offers deep insights into the current state and future possibilities of cannabis policy in the United States.

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur Podcast, host TG Branfalt sits down with Jessica McElfresh, Chair of the Cannabis Law Institute and board member of the International Cannabis Bar Association, to explore the evolving landscape of cannabis law. Jessica shares her experiences practicing cannabis regulatory law in Southern California since 2010 and provides insights into the critical role attorneys play as the industry grows and federal rescheduling looms on the horizon. Jessica also discusses the Cannabis Law Institute conference, which took place in Chicago over the summer, where legal experts tackled pressing issues like state and federal cannabis policies, social equity, and the potential impact of rescheduling on taxes, financing, and business operations. Whether you're a legal professional or cannabis entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how to navigate the complex legal landscape of the cannabis industry and what could be in store as federal policy changes. (Note: this episode w

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur Podcast, host TG Branfalt is joined by LJ Dawson, the Editor-in-Chief of The Outlaw Report, a Washington, DC-based cannabis news outlet covering the dynamic cannabis landscape in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region. LJ shares her journey from criminal justice reporting to leading an independent cannabis-focused publication, offering unique insights into the intersection of cannabis policy, business, and social justice in one of the most politically charged regions in the country. LJ discusses the complex challenges of reporting on cannabis in a region where local, state, and federal laws often clash, creating a complicated and ever-evolving market. She also delves into the ongoing efforts to expand DC’s medical cannabis market amidst competition from unlicensed operators, and the broader implications of cannabis enforcement across the DMV. For anyone interested in cannabis policy, journalism, or the intricacies of the DMV cannabis market (regulated and otherwise),

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur podcast, host TG Branfalt is joined by Dr. Sean Myles, an associate professor of agriculture at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, who brings a wealth of knowledge on plant genetics. While Dr. Myles has made significant contributions to the study of plant varieties in apples and grapes, today's focus is on his groundbreaking work in cannabis research. Within the unique intersection of agriculture, genetics, and the culture and policy of cannabis legalization, Dr. Myles sheds light on how cannabis labeling, genetic diversity, and breeding practices are shaping the future of the industry.

In this episode of the Ganjapreneur podcast, host TG Branfalt connects with the multi-talented Ngaio Bealum. Ngaio is a true cannabis renaissance man—comedian, musician, writer, actor, and activist—known for his work as a host of numerous events and shows, including the International Cannabis Business Conference, and the Emerald Cup. In this engaging conversation, Ngaio shares his journey from performer to cannabis advocate, discussing how his background in activism and entertainment has shaped his approach to cannabis education and advocacy, what role entertainment plays in educating the public about cannabis, and more.

Brian Applegarth is the founder of Applegarth Strategies, an agency that operates at the intersection of cannabis and travel. He's also the head of the Cannabis Travel Association, leads the Cannabis and Task Force for the California Travel Association and Destinations International, serves as an industry consultant, and holds a certification as a Ganjier cannabis sommelier—a man of many talents and extensive expertise. In this episode, host TG Branfalt connects with Applegarth to explore the evolving landscape of cannabis tourism, delve into the unique challenges and opportunities within the industry, and revisit how the landscape has transformed since Brian's last visit to the show.

This episode of The Ganjapreneur Podcast features Tara Rosenblum, an investigative reporter for News 12, who has recently released a compelling documentary titled "Cannabis Contest." The documentary offers an in-depth look at the social equity aspects of cannabis licensing in New York City, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of hopeful licensees within the evolving legal landscape -- including another previous guest on the show, Jeremy Rivera. With nearly two decades of investigative reporting experience in the New York City market, Tara explores the community dynamics and the critical issues affecting residents and aspiring entrepreneurs. This episode dives into the complexities of cannabis policy, personal journeys of license applicants, and the broader societal implications as cannabis goes from underground economy to regulated business.

The Ganjapreneur Podcast is back! In this episode, host TG Branfalt welcomes Jeremy Rivera, co-founder and CEO of Terp Bros, a dispensary in Astoria, Queens. Rivera, a beneficiary of New York’s Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) program, shares his journey from the legacy market and facing multiple cannabis convictions to launching his own licensed cannabis business. He goes into detail about the nuances of the CAURD program, the competitive landscape of New York’s cannabis market, and the distinctive approach Terp Bros has taken to distinguish itself amid a sea of dispensaries. He also provides first-hand insight into the entrepreneurial spirit driving New York’s developing legal cannabis industry and the ongoing efforts to rectify past injustices.

For decades, cannabis research in the U.S. was hindered by steep federal requirements, foot-dragging enforcement agencies, and an archaic rule limiting the source of research-grade cannabis to just one cultivator in Mississippi. But thanks to a lawsuit against the DEA by Dr. Sue Sisley MD, a doctor who spent years trying to get federal approval for her study, which sought to investigate the therapeutic effects of cannabis for veterans with PTSD, the path to legitimate cannabis research has never been more clear. Shane Pennington, the New York-based counsel for Vicente Sederberg LLP, was the attorney who worked pro bono with Dr. Sisley to see that lawsuit to fruition. In this podcast interview, our host TG Branfalt returns to discuss those developments with Shane as well as other significant rulings. Shane also discusses his background and experience from before he joined the cannabis cause, his advice for younger lawyers or law students who are interested in cannabis, and more. Topics covered in this podcas

From transitioning out of a self-described "boring" career in finance to heading one of the East Coast's biggest multistate operators, to eventually moving to California to focus on team- and brand-building for Lowell Farms, few people have experience in the cannabis industry like George Allen. In the latest Ganjapreneur.com Podcast interview, George and our host TG Branfalt discuss George's exit from a Wall Street finance career to join the cannabis industry, his time as the President of Acreage Holdings (during which he approached the former Republican Speaker of the House John Boehner about endorsing the cannabis legalization movement), as well as the eventual transition from working for an MSO to joining up with the California-focused Lowell Farms. The interview also covers advice for building a strong team in the cannabis space, the differences between medical and recreational cannabis markets, the importance of being passionate about the industry, and more! Topics covered in this podcast: www.ganjapre

Joseph Ori is co-founder of Six Labs, a Michigan-based manufacturer of craft cannabis products. With nearly one million medical cannabis caregivers licensed in the state, Michigan is an often undersung hub of cannabis culture, cultivation, and industry expertise. In a recent interview covering entrepreneurship and the Michigan marketplace, Joseph and our podcast host TG Branfalt discuss the thought process behind Joe's pivot to the cannabis space, his company's scientific approach to cannabis cultivation, and the advantages of working with a versatile team. This interview also covers Six Labs' brand-building process, their prioritization of experience-focused cannabis products, and more! Topics covered in this podcast: www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/michigan www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/illinois www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/cultivation www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/entrepreneurs www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/licensing For a full transcript: Subscribe to our newsletter: www.ganjapreneur.com/subscribe/ Follow us on soc

TJ Stouder is the founder and CEO of MyHi, which offers stir STIKs containing water-soluble and fast-acting THC powder designed for a truly convenient and sociable cannabis experience. As cannabis becomes more and more ubiquitous in social circles and even in public spaces, it's important for new cannabis products to collectively drive the industry's innovation and acceptance by more mainstream audiences. MyHi is especially in tune with that fact as a company and has dedicated a significant portion of its launch and brand identity to centering the conversation about social and convenient cannabis use. In this episode of the Ganjapreneur.com Podcast, our host TG Branfalt connects with MyHi's founder and CEO TJ Stouder to discuss the inspiration behind MyHi's patented stir STIKs, the benefits of being able to add its fast-acting and nano emulsified THC powder to any beverage, and how the product is changing perceptions of social cannabis use and the role cannabis should play in social drinking circles. The pa

Chris Ray is the general manager for The Tree House, a cannabis dispensary in Anchorage, Alaska. In this episode of the Ganjapreneur.com Podcast, Chris joins our host TG Branfalt to discuss the early days of Alaska's cannabis marketplace, Chris' transition from working in cultivation to the retail side of the industry, and strategies for improving foot traffic and the overall cannabis retail experience. The interview also covers unique Alaskan cannabis industry experiences — like flying on commercial airlines while carrying tens of thousands of dollars worth of cannabis products, because sometimes that's the only option — and the benefits of getting to know your customer base on a more personal level. Topics covered in this podcast: www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/alaska www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/dispensaries www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/retail www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/entrepreneurs For a full transcript: https://www.ganjapreneur.com/chris-ray-navigating-change-in-alaskas-cannabis-industry/ Subscribe to our ne

Keith Stephenson is the owner and founder of Purple Heart, the first Black-owned cannabis business to be licensed in the U.S. and the longest-running cannabis dispensary in Oakland, California. During the sweeping social justice protests last year, Purple Heart was hit by a series of burglaries that ultimately crippled the company — Keith is still working to build back his business. In this podcast interview, our host TG Branfalt asks Keith about entering the cannabis space in the 1990s and launching one of the country's very first licensed cannabis businesses. This interview also covers Oakland's groundbreaking social equity provisions (which were largely based on Keith's suggestions), the early days of cannabis testing, how to achieve longevity in the frequently volatile cannabis space, and more! Topics covered in this podcast: www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/california www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/entrepreneurs www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/licensing www.ganjapreneur.com/topic/regulations www.ganjapreneur.com/topi