In this episode of Cannabis Enlightened, Dr. Leroy sits down with Alex Freedman, CEO of Traditional, to dive into his nearly 20-year journey in the cannabis industry. Alex shares his unique transition from a legal background to leading a major cannabis company, offering valuable insights into the power of true vertical integration as a strategy for sustainable growth. He also discusses the significant challenges and opportunities presented by the unlicensed cannabis market, explaining how these factors impact both industry growth and investment potential.

This episode is packed with expert advice for cannabis entrepreneurs and investors looking to maximize business success. Alex’s deep understanding of consumer trends, strategic leadership, and vertical integration offers actionable takeaways for navigating the complexities of the cannabis market. Whether you’re looking to scale your business or make informed investment decisions, Alex’s perspective will help you understand what it takes to build a thriving cannabis company and stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

Hear more episodes - subscribe and follow at OlasMedia.com

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introduction and Traditional Cannabis Company 
00:05:47 - Vertical Integration and Dispensaries 
00:08:59 - Product Innovation and Quality Control 
00:11:27 - Non-traditional Background in Cannabis 
00:14:42 - Impact of Regulations on the Cannabis Industry 
00:16:47 - Challenges of Regulatory Structures 
00:20:44 - Impact of Illegal Market 
00:25:02 - Cannabis as Medicine 
00:27:37 - Evolving Consumer Consumption 
00:30:09 - Future of Cannabis Industry 
00:33:16 - Gratitude and Connection 
00:33:42 - Connecting with Alex 
00:34:08 - Availability of Products  
00:35:07 - Closing Remarks 

In this episode of Cannabis Enlightened, Dr. Leroy sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-freedman-b40013162/">Alex Freedman, CEO of Traditional</a>, to dive into his nearly 20-year journey in the cannabis industry. Alex shares his unique transition from a legal background to leading a major cannabis company, offering valuable insights into the power of true vertical integration as a strategy for sustainable growth. He also discusses the significant challenges and opportunities presented by the unlicensed cannabis market, explaining how these factors impact both industry growth and investment potential.
This episode is packed with expert advice for cannabis entrepreneurs and investors looking to maximize business success. Alex’s deep understanding of consumer trends, strategic leadership, and vertical integration offers actionable takeaways for navigating the complexities of the cannabis market. Whether you’re looking to scale your business or make informed investment decisions, Alex’s perspective will help you understand what it takes to build a thriving cannabis company and stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
Hear more episodes - subscribe and follow at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/cannabis-enlightened">OlasMedia.com</a>
The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:01 - Introduction and Traditional Cannabis Company 00:05:47 - Vertical Integration and Dispensaries 00:08:59 - Product Innovation and Quality Control 00:11:27 - Non-traditional Background in Cannabis 00:14:42 - Impact of Regulations on the Cannabis Industry 00:16:47 - Challenges of Regulatory Structures 00:20:44 - Impact of Illegal Market 00:25:02 - Cannabis as Medicine 00:27:37 - Evolving Consumer Consumption 00:30:09 - Future of Cannabis Industry 00:33:16 - Gratitude and Connection 00:33:42 - Connecting with Alex 00:34:08 - Availability of Products   00:35:07 - Closing Remarks

Leading the Charge : Vision for True Vertical Integration in Cannabis - Alex Freedman

In this episode of Cannabis Enlightened, Dr. Leroy is joined by Grant and Maribel McKinze from UFCW Local 135, Candice Finn from March and Ash, and Laurie Han from the YMCA. They dive into the critical topic of childcare for working parents, especially those in the cannabis industry. The discussion explores how companies like March and Ash are addressing childcare challenges through innovative benefits like stipends and partnerships with local childcare providers, offering invaluable support to employees. Tune in for insights on how childcare can boost employee satisfaction, reduce absenteeism, and improve work-life balance in the cannabis sector. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating childcare choices while balancing work and family life.

This episode has been sponsored by: March and Ash

Don’t forget to follow or subscribe at OlasMedia.com

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Sponsorship 
00:01:15 - Types of Childcare 
00:05:15 - Employee Experience with Childcare 
00:08:58 - Union's Role in Childcare 
00:13:40 - Impact of COVID-19 on Childcare 
00:15:29 - Childcare benefits for employees 
00:16:33 - Choosing the right childcare 
00:18:24 - Support for families 
00:23:06 - Benefits for employers 
00:27:58 - Personal experiences with the childcare program 
00:30:08 - Childcare Costs in San Diego County 
00:31:29 - Employer Assistance for Childcare 
00:34:31 - Seeking Childcare Services 
00:38:21 - Union Support and Resources

In this episode of Cannabis Enlightened, Dr. Leroy is joined by Grant and Maribel McKinze from UFCW Local 135, Candice Finn from March and Ash, and Laurie Han from the YMCA. They dive into the critical topic of childcare for working parents, especially those in the cannabis industry. The discussion explores how companies like March and Ash are addressing childcare challenges through innovative benefits like stipends and partnerships with local childcare providers, offering invaluable support to employees. Tune in for insights on how childcare can boost employee satisfaction, reduce absenteeism, and improve work-life balance in the cannabis sector. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating childcare choices while balancing work and family life.
This episode has been sponsored by: <a href="https://marchandash.com/">March and Ash</a>
Don’t forget to follow or subscribe at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/cannabis-enlightened">OlasMedia.com</a>
The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Sponsorship 00:01:15 - Types of Childcare 00:05:15 - Employee Experience with Childcare 00:08:58 - Union's Role in Childcare 00:13:40 - Impact of COVID-19 on Childcare 00:15:29 - Childcare benefits for employees 00:16:33 - Choosing the right childcare 00:18:24 - Support for families 00:23:06 - Benefits for employers 00:27:58 - Personal experiences with the childcare program 00:30:08 - Childcare Costs in San Diego County 00:31:29 - Employer Assistance for Childcare 00:34:31 - Seeking Childcare Services 00:38:21 - Union Support and Resources

Childcare Matters : How Community Partnerships Support a Growing Workforce

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/e4892732-ce9a-4c63-8bca-b2270164ebb7/transcript

March and Ash stores might be known in Southern California for feeling more like Nordstroms than a smoke shop. But as the only retailer that has partnered with the YMCA to provide childcare for workers, employs its delivery drivers with unionized wages and benefits, and with its unmatched commitment to bring a storied industry above-board.

So it may not be a surprise why Dr. Leroy hit it off with Roberto and Araceli Mareno of Mexico’s Red Thread Project, who have been instrumental in providing incarcerated female prisoners in Mexico with sewing skills and entrepreneurial opportunities. 

Follow, Subscribe and hear more episodes, visit Olasmedia.com

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introducing the Red Thread Project
00:04:27 - Impact and Versatility of Skills
00:09:13 - Life-changing Stories
00:11:59 - Collaboration with March and Ash
00:16:25 - Empowerment and Skill Development
00:19:44 - Extending Reach and Selection Process
00:21:31 - Age Range and Juveniles in Prison
00:27:51 - From Sewing to Red Thread Project
00:29:45 - The Meaning of Red Thread Project
00:35:17 - Providing Second Chances and Understanding 

March and Ash stores might be known in Southern California for feeling more like Nordstroms than a smoke shop. But as the only retailer that has <a href="https://www.ymcasd.org/about-y/news-center/general/celebrating-successful-employer-supported-child-care-forum">partnered with the YMCA</a> to provide childcare for workers, <a href="https://ufcw135.com/march-and-ash-ratify-new-contract/">employs its delivery drivers with unionized wages and benefits</a>, and with its <a href="https://voiceofsandiego.org/2021/08/19/morning-report-lawsuit-pits-legal-dispensaries-against-the-black-market/">unmatched commitment to bring a storied industry above-board</a>.
So it may not be a surprise why Dr. Leroy hit it off with Roberto and Araceli Mareno of Mexico’s Red Thread Project, who have been instrumental in providing incarcerated female prisoners in Mexico with sewing skills and entrepreneurial opportunities. 
Follow, Subscribe and hear more episodes, visit <a href="olasmedia.com">Olasmedia.com</a>
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introducing the Red Thread Project 00:04:27 - Impact and Versatility of Skills 00:09:13 - Life-changing Stories 00:11:59 - Collaboration with March and Ash 00:16:25 - Empowerment and Skill Development 00:19:44 - Extending Reach and Selection Process 00:21:31 - Age Range and Juveniles in Prison 00:27:51 - From Sewing to Red Thread Project 00:29:45 - The Meaning of Red Thread Project 00:35:17 - Providing Second Chances and Understanding 
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</blockquote>

Cannabis Retailer and Female Prisoners in Mexico Find a Common Thread

Celebrate Juneteenth 2024 with Cannabis Enlightened as Dr. Leroy explores the intersection of this historic day and our vital right to vote. Discover why voting matters for advancing equity and shaping a more inclusive future. Join us for insights into the significance of Juneteenth, the power of civic engagement, and how we can honor the past while driving meaningful change.

Follow and Subscribe at OlasMedia.com

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - 710 Celebration and Voting
00:01:31 - Voting as a Sign of Gratitude
00:02:45 - Juneteenth History and Rights
00:03:36 - Celebrating Juneteenth
00:04:13 - Podcast Credits and Closing

Celebrate Juneteenth 2024 with Cannabis Enlightened as Dr. Leroy explores the intersection of this historic day and our vital right to vote. Discover why voting matters for advancing equity and shaping a more inclusive future. Join us for insights into the significance of Juneteenth, the power of civic engagement, and how we can honor the past while driving meaningful change.
Follow and Subscribe at <a href="olasmedia.com">OlasMedia.com</a>
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - 710 Celebration and Voting 00:01:31 - Voting as a Sign of Gratitude 00:02:45 - Juneteenth History and Rights 00:03:36 - Celebrating Juneteenth 00:04:13 - Podcast Credits and Closing

Discover the historical significance of Juneteenth and its impact on our nation's legacy.  Learn the importance of exercising the right to vote in the upcoming Juneteenth 2024 elections.  Explore the celebration of March and Ash 710 and its cultural and historical relevance.  Understand the significance of voting rights and civic engagement in honoring Juneteenth ancestors.  Uncover the thought-provoking topics discussed on the Cannabis Enlighten podcast, expanding your knowledge in the realm of cannabis culture and history.

Juneteenth Extra: A Podcast Essay from Dr. Leroy

Treat yourself to the transformative journey of Derek Craft, a trailblazer in the cannabis industry and one of the inaugural recipients of March and Ash’s Cannabis Private Equity Group. In this enlightening episode, Derek shares invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities encountered by social equity entrepreneurs. Through his brand Derek emphasizes the power of personal connection and authentic storytelling in building a meaningful brand identity. He discusses the essential qualities of patience, commitment, and relentless dedication required to navigate the intricacies of entrepreneurship within the cannabis sector.

Joining Dr. Leroy, from The Dodi Connection, Mr. Wowzer delves into Derek's unwavering passion for creating a genuine brand experience. Derek's journey offers profound lessons on the critical roles of knowledge, infrastructure, and financial support in achieving success in the cannabis business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or exploring opportunities in cannabis, this episode provides essential insights to help you establish a resilient and impactful brand in this dynamic industry.

Follow and Subscribe at OlasMedia.com

The key moments in this episode are:


00:00:00 - Introduction and 710 Celebration
00:01:47 - Cannabis Enlightened Program
00:03:00 - Social Equity in Cannabis
00:10:16 - Vision for CPEG and Business Support
00:14:11 - Challenges in Cannabis Industry
00:16:19 - Lack of Access for Cannabis Business
00:17:09 - Insights from Former Prisoners
00:18:09 - March and Ash's Involvement
00:19:27 - Challenges of Entrepreneurship
00:22:19 - Brand Development and Background
00:31:02 - The Early Days
00:34:33 - Connecting with Customers
00:39:10 - The Brand Experience
00:40:31 - Getting in Touch

Treat yourself to the transformative journey of Derek Craft, a trailblazer in the cannabis industry and one of the inaugural recipients of March and Ash’s Cannabis Private Equity Group. In this enlightening episode, Derek shares invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities encountered by social equity entrepreneurs. Through his brand Derek emphasizes the power of personal connection and authentic storytelling in building a meaningful brand identity. He discusses the essential qualities of patience, commitment, and relentless dedication required to navigate the intricacies of entrepreneurship within the cannabis sector.
Joining Dr. Leroy, from The Dodi Connection, Mr. Wowzer delves into Derek's unwavering passion for creating a genuine brand experience. Derek's journey offers profound lessons on the critical roles of knowledge, infrastructure, and financial support in achieving success in the cannabis business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or exploring opportunities in cannabis, this episode provides essential insights to help you establish a resilient and impactful brand in this dynamic industry.
Follow and Subscribe at <a href="olasmedia.com">OlasMedia.com</a>
The key moments in this episode are:
 00:00:00 - Introduction and 710 Celebration 00:01:47 - Cannabis Enlightened Program 00:03:00 - Social Equity in Cannabis 00:10:16 - Vision for CPEG and Business Support 00:14:11 - Challenges in Cannabis Industry 00:16:19 - Lack of Access for Cannabis Business 00:17:09 - Insights from Former Prisoners 00:18:09 - March and Ash's Involvement 00:19:27 - Challenges of Entrepreneurship 00:22:19 - Brand Development and Background 00:31:02 - The Early Days 00:34:33 - Connecting with Customers 00:39:10 - The Brand Experience 00:40:31 - Getting in Touch

Cannabis Private Equity Group: A Journey to Inclusion - Derek Craft

An exclusive chat with Kayla Bass and Tonya Aanenson from March and Ash as they uncover the secrets behind impactful 4-Twenty promotions and event planning. From engaging event strategies to exciting surprises for this year's celebrations, this episode provides valuable insights to elevate your event planning game. Don't miss this insider's look as we delve into cannabis marketing and promotions! Plus, exciting news for Stagecoach and Coachella attendees: a new March and Ash dispensary is now open in Palm Desert, CA, just in time for the festivities! #CannabisEvents #4TwentyPromotions #EventPlanning #CannabisEnlightened #MarchandAsh #PalmDesert #Stagecoach #Coachella 🚀

An exclusive chat with Kayla Bass and Tonya Aanenson from March and Ash as they uncover the secrets behind impactful 4-Twenty promotions and event planning. From engaging event strategies to exciting surprises for this year's celebrations, this episode provides valuable insights to elevate your event planning game. Don't miss this insider's look as we delve into cannabis marketing and promotions! Plus, exciting news for Stagecoach and Coachella attendees: a new March and Ash dispensary is now open in Palm Desert, CA, just in time for the festivities! #CannabisEvents #4TwentyPromotions #EventPlanning #CannabisEnlightened #MarchandAsh #PalmDesert #Stagecoach #Coachella 🚀

Four Twenty: Behind the Smoke at March and Ash

Dr. Leroy is thrilled to introduce Guy Rocourt, the CEO of Papa and Barkley - a leading name in the cannabis wellness realm. Guy's journey from cannabis activism to helming a renowned brand like Papa and Barkley showcases his deep passion and expertise in the field. With a focus on product development and advocating for safe access to cannabis, Guy is a trusted figure in the cannabis wellness community. Join us as we explore his insights on the therapeutic potential of cannabis, his journey to becoming a CEO, and the importance of social equity in cannabis regulations. Gain fresh perspectives and untold insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis therapy with Guy Rocourt on "Cannabis Enlightened."

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:01 - Disclaimer and Introduction
00:02:19 - Origin of Papa and Barclay
00:05:19 - The Name "Guy"
00:09:32 - Education and Career Path
00:13:45 - Product Development and Regulation
00:14:19 - Legalization and Access to Cannabis
00:16:24 - Product Endorsement and Consumer Feedback
00:17:35 - Differentiation and Integrity in Product Creation
00:20:02 - Cannabis as a Medicinal Solution
00:22:01 - Overcoming Misinformation and Racial Bias
00:28:03 - The Importance of Staying True to Natural Practices
00:29:51 - Honoring Juneteenth and American History
00:32:27 - Challenges of Achieving Social Equity
00:37:10 - Overcoming Cannabis Shame and 280E Challenges
00:42:28 - Empowering Individuals and Advocating for Change
00:43:01 - Gratitude and Positivity
00:43:34 - Cannabis as a Way of Life
00:44:10 - Sponsorship and Acknowledgment
00:44:25 - Podcast Production
00:44:53 - Conclusion 

Dr. Leroy is thrilled to introduce <a href="https://www.papaandbarkleycbd.com/guy-rocourt">Guy Rocourt</a>, the CEO of <a href="https://www.papaandbarkleycbd.com/">Papa and Barkley</a> - a leading name in the cannabis wellness realm. Guy's journey from cannabis activism to helming a renowned brand like Papa and Barkley showcases his deep passion and expertise in the field. With a focus on product development and advocating for safe access to cannabis, Guy is a trusted figure in the cannabis wellness community. Join us as we explore his insights on the therapeutic potential of cannabis, his journey to becoming a CEO, and the importance of social equity in cannabis regulations. Gain fresh perspectives and untold insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis therapy with Guy Rocourt on "Cannabis Enlightened."
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Disclaimer and Introduction 00:02:19 - Origin of Papa and Barclay 00:05:19 - The Name "Guy" 00:09:32 - Education and Career Path 00:13:45 - Product Development and Regulation 00:14:19 - Legalization and Access to Cannabis 00:16:24 - Product Endorsement and Consumer Feedback 00:17:35 - Differentiation and Integrity in Product Creation 00:20:02 - Cannabis as a Medicinal Solution 00:22:01 - Overcoming Misinformation and Racial Bias 00:28:03 - The Importance of Staying True to Natural Practices 00:29:51 - Honoring Juneteenth and American History 00:32:27 - Challenges of Achieving Social Equity 00:37:10 - Overcoming Cannabis Shame and 280E Challenges 00:42:28 - Empowering Individuals and Advocating for Change 00:43:01 - Gratitude and Positivity 00:43:34 - Cannabis as a Way of Life 00:44:10 - Sponsorship and Acknowledgment 00:44:25 - Podcast Production 00:44:53 - Conclusion

From Activism to Leadership: Guy Rocourt's Cannabis Evolution

Chris Morsette, President and Head of Cultivation at Ember Valley, shares his journey in the cannabis industry and offers insights into cultivation and business operations. He emphasizes the importance of mastering one's craft and learning from experienced growers. Chris discusses the challenges of taxation and the coexistence of the black market and the regulated market. He also shares his vision for the future of the cannabis industry.

Podcast Sponsor by March and Ash

Listen to more episodes at Olas Media

Email us your questions, suggested topics to: dr.leroy@cannabisenlightened.com

(Originally aired Date  Jan 30, 2024)

<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-morsette-3781b384/">Chris Morsette</a>, President and Head of Cultivation at <a href="https://ember-valley.com/">Ember Valley</a>, shares his journey in the cannabis industry and offers insights into cultivation and business operations. He emphasizes the importance of mastering one's craft and learning from experienced growers. Chris discusses the challenges of taxation and the coexistence of the black market and the regulated market. He also shares his vision for the future of the cannabis industry.
Podcast Sponsor by <a href="https://marchandash.com/">March and Ash</a>
Listen to more episodes at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/cannabis-enlightened">Olas Media</a>
Email us your questions, suggested topics to: <a href="mailto:dr.leroy@cannabisenlightened.com">dr.leroy@cannabisenlightened.com</a>
(Originally aired Date  Jan 30, 2024)

Passion Trumps Degrees: Chris Morsette on Cannabis Success

Did you know that terpenes can actually enhance or alter the effects of cannabinoids? Or that different strains with similar THC levels can have vastly different effects due to differing terpene profiles? Ruben Villasenor, Cannabis Coach and Educator with Kurativ CBD, is here to share the truth about personalized cannabis profiles, helping you achieve the optimal experience for your needs. Have you ever heard the myths surrounding terpene and cannabinoid profiles? It's time to debunk these misconceptions and get to the truth.

(Originally aired 08Aug23)

Did you know that terpenes can actually enhance or alter the effects of cannabinoids? Or that different strains with similar THC levels can have vastly different effects due to differing terpene profiles? <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruben-villasenor/">Ruben Villasenor</a>, Cannabis Coach and Educator with <a href="https://kurativcbd.com/">Kurativ CBD</a>, is here to share the truth about personalized cannabis profiles, helping you achieve the optimal experience for your needs. Have you ever heard the myths surrounding terpene and cannabinoid profiles? It's time to debunk these misconceptions and get to the truth.
(Originally aired 08Aug23)

Customize Your High: Terpene and Cannabinoid Profiles | Ruben Villasenor

In today’s episode, Dr. Leroy has a conversation with Dr Amanda Reiman, Founder of Personal Plants, a platform designed to help people develop healthy, balanced relationships with psychoactive plants. They talk about the impact of cannabis consumption, consequences, benefits of drinkable cannabis and the difference between alcohol and cannabis in a social setting. They explore how social lounges serve as a welcoming environment fostering a sense of community and socialization.

(Originally aired July 6/23)

In today’s episode, Dr. Leroy has a conversation with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-reiman-phd-msw/">Dr Amanda Reiman</a>, Founder of Personal Plants, a platform designed to help people develop healthy, balanced relationships with psychoactive plants. They talk about the impact of cannabis consumption, consequences, benefits of drinkable cannabis and the difference between alcohol and cannabis in a social setting. They explore how social lounges serve as a welcoming environment fostering a sense of community and socialization.
 (Originally aired July 6/23)

Creating Connections: Amanda Reiman Explores the Social Impact of Cannabis Lounges

Dr. Leroy Brady shares enlightening and educational information around the subject of Cannabis. As a San Diego professor of The Business of Cannabis, he seeks to introduce a different point of view.

Cannabis Enlightened

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