Kyle Neathery, CEO of Samson Extracts, shares his insights on large-scale hemp extraction and waste management. Kyle and host Richard Zwicky explore the unique challenges and opportunities of processing vast quantities of hemp biomass – up to 250,000 pounds per month – using innovative extraction methods drawn from the oil and gas industry.

This insightful interview delves into the intricacies of Samson Extracts' operations, including their focus on ethanol extraction, overcoming bottlenecks in the production process, and the strategic implementation of automation. Kyle discusses the importance of employee engagement, optimizing workflows, and adapting lean manufacturing principles to the hemp industry. He also shares his experiences in identifying and addressing production challenges, such as winterization and managing significant amounts of waste byproduct.

Discover how Samson Extracts is maximizing efficiency, minimizing environmental impact, and exploring new avenues for utilizing hemp waste in the creation of fertilizers and other valuable products. Tune in to learn how this innovative company is scaling its operations while maintaining a commitment to quality and sustainability in the evolving hemp extraction landscape.

This engaging discussion with Richard Zwicky and Steven Murphy, CEO of Prohibition Partners, explores the dynamic world of the global cannabis industry, offering valuable insights into current trends, regulatory challenges, and emerging opportunities.

Steven and Richard analyze the current state of the cannabis industry, with a focus on Germany and North America. They discuss the influx of new players, the importance of patient acquisition, and the potential for industry consolidation. They also examine the progress of cannabis clubs and pilot programs in Germany, emphasizing the need for effective regulation and control in this evolving market. The conversation explores the potential for cannabis legalization in 2025, particularly in California, and the implications of interstate commerce. Steven provides insights from the upcoming Prohibition Partners global cannabis report, highlighting the European model as a potential gold standard for standardization and global trade. They also discuss the potential impact of the UN's rewording of drug schedules and the growth of cannabis markets in Brazil, Australia, and Poland.

Steven and Richard delve into the current state of the cannabis industry, focusing on cultivation and supply chain opportunities. They discuss the potential for Latin American and Asian countries to lead in quality production, the challenges of Canadian protectionism, and the importance of innovation and cost reduction. They also highlight the availability of distressed assets and the potential for global growth in the industry. The discussion highlights upcoming cannabis events in June, including European Cannabis Week, Cannabis Europa in London, and the Business of Cannabis Berlin event. Both Richard and Steven emphasize the importance of these events in facilitating industry connections and driving business development.

This insightful conversation provides a comprehensive overview of the global cannabis landscape, offering valuable perspectives on its future trajectory.

Shauntel Ludwig, CEO of Synergy Innovation, discussed the growth and challenges in the cannabis accessory market. DaVinci and ICE, her brands, focus on premium vaporizers and silicone products, respectively.

She highlighted significant market growth in Europe, particularly Germany, and South America, with a 30-40% drop in the US market due to high THC concentrations. 

Ludwig emphasized the importance of systems and compliance, particularly with the PACT Act affecting vapor product reporting. She advised companies to prepare thoroughly for M&A, ensuring brand integrity and smart investment. Ludwig also noted potential growth in Australia's medical market.

Richard Zwicky engages in a comprehensive discussion with Guillermo Rodriguez, a Virtual CFO (VCFO) at Summit CPA Group, an affiliate of Anders CPAs + Advisors, about the multifaceted challenges faced by the cannabis industry.

They delve into financial hurdles such as cash flow management, access to capital, and navigating tax complexities. They also explore the intricacies of market dynamics, emphasizing the importance of product mix, pricing strategies, and retailer education.

Guillermo underscores the need for robust financial forecasting and planning, along with proactive sales accountability, as critical components for success. The conversation highlights the ongoing challenges of operating within a rapidly evolving regulatory and economic environment, underlining the importance of adaptability and financial prudence for cannabis businesses.

Tyler Beuerlein, Chief Strategic Business Development Officer at Safe Harbor, embarks on an exhilarating expedition on the Green Peak.

Tyler delves into his distinguished career as a Chief Business Development Officer at Hyper, where he facilitated a phenomenal half a billion in transactions and helped open an astounding 1,000 cannabis bank accounts.

Tyler's transformative journey to Safe Harbor is unveiled, highlighting his pivotal role as a liaison for the cannabis industry in dire need of banking services.

Richard Zwicky talks to Smoke Wallin, Managing Director and Partner, STS Capital Partners about the evolution of the cannabis industry and Smoke's journey from the beverage alcohol industry to cannabis. Smoke shared his insights on the challenges the cannabis industry is facing due to its recent legalization and the continuing illegality in some areas. He noted the importance of being a good operator, understanding the unique regulatory landscape, and being resourceful in generating cash. They also discussed the potential for consolidation in the industry, with Smoke identifying many promising but underfunded companies that could be ripe for acquisition. Richard emphasized the importance of focusing on necessities and letting go of distractions, drawing on Smoke's own experiences with illness and business.

Smoke shared his experiences with overcoming personal challenges to find inner happiness, emphasizing that true happiness comes from within. Richard agreed, adding that one in four people in North America has experienced abuse as a child, which can be a barrier to happiness. Both stressed the importance of addressing these challenges to achieve long-term happiness. They also briefly discussed their work schedules before returning to discuss Schedule 3 in the last purchase.

Richard and Smoke discussed the common desire to prove oneself and overcome challenges, which can be tied to mental health struggles. Smoke explained that many people experience trauma early in life that manifests later, causing them to seek external validation through achievement. However, true happiness comes from within, not from possessions or accomplishments. They emphasized accepting one's past without defining oneself by it.

Richard and Smoke discussed the challenges and setbacks that occur in life, emphasizing that being present does not always imply responsibility or control. They agreed on the importance of taking agency and viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Smoke suggested that our perception of the world influences our reality, and we can change our thoughts to create a desired future. Richard agreed, insisting that we are what we think, and our thoughts shape our tomorrow.

Richard and Smoke discussed the readiness of entrepreneurs to incorporate mindfulness practices into their lives. Richard noted that many entrepreneurs he has worked with become more receptive to mindfulness after experiencing success or failure in their ventures. Smoke agreed, sharing their own experience and suggesting that it's never too late to start a mindfulness practice. They both emphasized the benefits of making mindfulness a daily habit, even from a young age. The discussion also touched on the value of coaching and support in facilitating personal growth.

Richard and Smoke discussed the potential impacts of rescheduling to Schedule 3 and the changing dynamics in the industry due to pharmaceutical requirements and the EPA's involvement. Smoke expressed optimism about the imminent legalization, a shift from previous predictions, and highlighted the significance of this change for the economy. They also touched on the initial investment in Canopy and the losses incurred, suggesting that the change in schedule could positively impact such investments.

Jordan Tritt ,CEO and co-founder of The Panther Group, joins Richard Zwicky to discuss investment strategies, regulatory changes in the cannabis industry, successful entrepreneurship markers, and relationship challenges.

Jordan emphasizes transparency and preparation for shifts, while Richard Zwicky shares insights on strategic business structures. 

Ctrust, led by Dotan Y Melech, offers a specialized cannabis credit score similar to FICO, essential for capital access in the industry. We delve into the significance of this scoring system, Dotan's asset management background, and insights on federal legalization's potential effects on business dynamics.

Richard Zwicky highlighted the system's importance amid funding challenges and discussed compliance issues with EPA standards., plus they investigate legal aspects and implications of different schedules under EPA regulations.

Stephen Murphy, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Prohibition Partners speaks with Richard about Germany's legalization of adult cannabis use marking a significant development in Europe, impacting other countries. They discussed innovative mental health solutions leveraging AI to customize content for individuals and measure therapy effectiveness. Challenges in the US cannabis market were highlighted, attributing complexity to state regulations, federal laws, and business obstacles. Insights covered industry trends like changes in import markets, evolving consumer perceptions, and challenges faced by investors and companies. Key themes emphasized evidence-based mental health treatments, strategic business growth amidst global regulatory changes, and fostering collaboration across sectors. The Cannabis Europa Conference was recommended as a valuable networking opportunity in the industry landscape.

Richard Zwicky speaks with Rebecca Conti Koar, EVP of Investor Relations and Strategy at AWH (Ascend Wellness Holdings)

Richard talks to Rebecca about Ascend Wellness's recent earnings results, revenue growth, market penetration, and potential expansion plans for new stores or markets.

They address topics like tax strategy, upcoming refinancing of a term loan, and an outlet retail strategy for value-oriented products. Richard mentions potential consolidation within the industry due to aggressive price normalization, noting state-imposed caps that may restrict further opportunities.

They conclude by discussing implications for the industry over the next twelve to eighteen months, including consolidation possibilities and challenges posed by regulatory changes.

Rebecca provides insights into Ascend Wellness Holdings' current performance and future outlook in the cannabis industry, covering strategic initiatives and market dynamics. Plus, they discuss financial results, growth strategies, expansion plans, and potential barriers to entry. They analyze the impact of state-imposed caps on industry consolidation and future challenges arising from regulatory changes.

Psychedelics Legalization and Investment as Richard Zwicky welcomes Dustin Robinson, Managing Principal of Iter Investments, Founding Partner of Mr. Cannabis Law and Co-Founder of Mr. Psychedelic Law.

Dustin Robinson, Esq., CPA, is managing principal of psychedelics venture capital firm Iter Investments; founding partner of psychedelics and cannabis law firm Mr. Cannabis Law; and co-founder of psychedelics non-profit Mr. Psychedelic Law; for your consideration on any stories that you may working on.

Robinson’s venture capital firm is an investor in MAPS and has worked closely with the organization, and his law firm represents many clinics and therapists that are planning to use MDMA once approved.

As a starting point, Robinson said, “MAPS PBC New Drug Application submission to the FDA is a tremendous milestone for the psychedelic industry. It is the first NDA submission for psychedelic therapy and brings us one step closer to a paradigm shift in mental health. My expected timeline is FDA approval around August 2024; DEA approval by end of 2024; first patient dosed by mid-2025; private insurance coverage by the end of 2025; and MDMA-Assisted Therapy at scale in 2026. With MAPS PBC Phase 3 trial results demonstrating a significant improvement over current medicines for PTSD, I expect MDMA-Assisted Therapy to be a game-changer for veterans and others suffering from PTSD

In a historic move, Australia has become the first country to prescribe MDMA and psilocybin for PTSD and depression. Join your host, Richard Zwicky, as he sits down with the inspirational Tania de Jong AM, a multifaceted personality—singer, businesswoman, and social entrepreneur. Together with Peter Hunt, Tania co-founded Mind Medicine Australia, a registered charity pioneering the use of regulatory-approved psychedelic medicines for mental health.

Discover the mission of Mind Medicine Australia, acting as the central hub connecting academia, government, medical practitioners, technology, philanthropy, and culture. Dive into the innovative approaches to treating mental health and promoting psychological well-being through the development of these groundbreaking medicines.

Richard Zwicky speaks with David Miller, the CEO of FlowGardens. David shares his background, transitioning from the financial and accounting space to the cannabis industry. He discusses how being in a state like Tennessee, which currently doesn't legally allow marijuana or cannabis production, has led FlowGardens to focus on alternative cannabinoids and unique genetics development. David emphasizes the importance of consumer education regarding these alternative cannabinoids and mentions specific ones like CBC, THCV, and CBDV.

The conversation touches on studies supporting the potential health benefits of alternative cannabinoids, particularly CBG and CBC in combating cancer and having anti-inflammatory characteristics. David highlights the challenge of consumer education in a market that tends to focus on high THC percentages. He also discusses the need for presenting consumers with options that offer a more holistic approach to medicinal use, considering various cannabinoids' potential benefits.

The interview also explores how Tennessee's regulatory landscape differs from other states, creating opportunities for FlowGardens to innovate and potentially sell products in non-legal states. David expresses optimism about the evolving market in Tennessee despite its current restrictions, and the conversation ends with a mention of the state's governor not being very favorable toward the cannabis industry in the past.

Germany's Cabinet has passed a landmark bill legalizing cannabis. Richard Zwicky speaks with Niklas Kouparanis, Co-Founder and CEO of Bloomwell Group, a leading European cannabis company based in Frankfurt and a holding company for medical cannabis businesses and brands in Germany about the pivotal legislation.

The reclassification of cannabis, which in the future will no longer be considered a narcotic even when it’s prescribed for medicinal purposes, also has a great deal of significance. This will be a milestone for doctors, patients and all other industry participants. The course has been set for better medical care and growth within the medical cannabis sector. By removing the bureaucratic hurdles associated with previously classifying cannabis as a narcotic, the legislation forecasts that pharmaceutical wholesalers trading medicinal cannabis can save an average of 2.3 million Euros annually. In the case of medical practices, the legislation estimates that the compliance costs will be reduced by around 719,000 Euros per year. This increase in efficiency will also benefit the patients, who will have access to medicinal cannabis at more affordable price points.

Richard Zwicky speaks with Erin Prosk, President and Co-founder of Sante Cannabis and Sora Care. Sante Cannabis is the only no-fee medical cannabis service covered by Quebec's public health insurance.

She is considered a pioneer in her efforts to help Quebecers access medical cannabis. Now, she is looking to improve accessibility to medical cannabis for patients across Canada with the launch of Sora Care, of which she is also President and Co-founder.

Cannabis Sustainability and Environmental Impact Examined as Richard welcomes Eloisa Lewis, the Founder of New Climate Culture discuss all of the variables that include water issues, energy usage, plastic pollution and more.

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.

Richard Zwicky welcomes Roy Bingham (Co-Founder and CEO) and Michael Arrington (Principal Analyst) of BDSA to share their recent forecast update on Which States Will Drive Cannabis Industry Growth in the U.S.

According to their update, the legal United States cannabis market is expected to grow 12% by the end of 2023, reaching $29.6 billion. By 2027, the U.S. is forecast to deliver $45 billion in total legal sales. The total global legal cannabis industry is predicted to reach $36.7 billion in 2023 (with 80% of sales from U.S. markets), growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% from 2022 to 2027.

Richard speaks with a brand strategist who made the transition from the Plant Based Protein Space into Cannabis. Dean Harris, the Co-Founder and CMO of TabBrands.

Dean Harris has an extensive background building brands and businesses. He has served as the Head of Marketing/Chief Marketing Officer for HotJobs, Vonage, Kayak, kgb and BlueCava, Three of these brands went public and two were acquired. Before his CMO work, he co-founded and ran a full-service ad agency in New York City and Connecticut with accounts that included: Coca-Cola, J&J, Citi and Sotheby’s.

Richard Zwicky speaks with Dan Mondello, co-founder and CEO at Rank Really High, specializing Full Service Web Marketing and Development for Cannabis Brands.

The company’s customized solutions include Native E-Commerce Websites, Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Search Engine Optimization (SEO), SEO Strategy, Google My Business Optimization (GMB), Analytics and Reporting, and more. Through conversion focused websites, and Pay-Per-Click (PPC) and SEM compliant campaigns, Rank Really High creates high conversion dispensary websites designed to drive organic search traffic and reach cannabis dispensary buyers. Dan's background draws from the automotive industry and he can discuss strategies and marketing tactics cannabis companies can utilize that mimic big box retailers like Walmart and Target.

Richard Zwicky welcomes MariMed's cofounder and new CEO Jon Levine about the MSO which has a strong presence in Massachusetts, Ohio and Illinois, as well as emerging markets like Maryland and Missouri.

While most MSOs are scuttling for brand equity and sales in prominent, oversaturated markets, MariMed has strategically built out its operations in locations that have been traditionally underserved. Through careful market research and planning, the company has excelled in building its presence in promising emerging markets ahead of the curve and building out and aligning its vertical operations effectively.

While other MSOs are constantly shuffling their consumer brands and SKUs, MariMed's brands are time-tested and new products brought to market are intentional and innovative. Also, MariMed has avoided a lot of the price compression that has plagued the industry over the past year-plus. Of note, MariMed’s Nature’s Heritage  flower remains the #1 selling flower in Massachusetts and prices have not decreased.