Welcome to a pivotal episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, where we delve deep into New York's cannabis marketplace amidst its complex regulatory and business environment. Today's guest, Katie Neer of KND Group, brings an insider’s perspective to the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the state.

In this episode, we'll explore the recent decision deeming padlocks unconstitutional and the repercussions this has on both legal and illicit cannabis markets in New York. Katie shares her insights on regulatory confusion, policing efforts, and the impact of election outcomes on cannabis policy.

We also touch on the potential growth of New York’s legal cannabis market, projected to be worth about $6 billion, and discuss strategic measures needed to realize this vision. Katie discusses the nuances of Registered Organizations (ROs) in the state, leadership changes at the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), and policy suggestions to enhance New York’s approach towards medical cannabis and private rights of action against illicit operations.

Join us as we unpack these critical issues with Katie Neer, whose expertise in shaping policy through collaboration with regulators offers invaluable lessons for cannabis businesses aiming to navigate and influence policy landscapes effectively.

Whether you're a dispensary owner, a policy maker, or simply a cannabis enthusiast, this episode offers a thorough understanding of the complexities and pivotal changes shaping one of the most dynamic cannabis markets in the U.S.

Tune in to gain actionable insights and stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of cannabis business regulations.

Remember to follow, like, or subscribe to Kaya Cast on your favorite podcast platform to keep up with the latest discussions and strategies for scaling and thriving in the cannabis industry.

Highlights:
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:11 Guest Introduction: Katie NIR from KND Group
00:44 Discussion on New York's Illicit Cannabis Market
02:36 Challenges and Nuances in Enforcement
06:01 Policy and Legislative Updates
12:26 Medical Cannabis Program in New York
17:10 State of Registered Organizations (ROs)
30:40 Current Market Overview and Future Outlook
35:24 Rescheduling and Its Impact on the Industry
37:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

Find out more about KND Group at:
https://www.kndgroupllc.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-neer-1b425414/

#KayaCastPodcast #NewYorkCannabisMarket #RegulatoryChallenges #BusinessOpportunities #KNDGroup #InsiderPerspective #PolicingEfforts #ElectionOutcomes #CannabisPolicy #LegalMarketGrowth #RegisteredOrganizations #OfficeofCannabisManagement #PrivateRightsOfAction #CollaborationWithRegulators #PolicyLandscapes #CannabisBusinesses #DispensaryOwners #PolicyMakers #CannabisEnthusiasts #ActionableInsights #EverEvolvingIndustry #StayAhead #CannabisRegulations #KayaCastCommunity #Follow #Like #Subscribe #PodcastPlatform #ScalingAndThriving #CannabisIndustry

Welcome back to another episode of the KayaCast Podcast, your go-to audio hub for all things cannabis business. Today, we're thrilled to have Craig Scurato from Kind Benefits join us to delve deep into the realm of employee health benefits, specifically tailored for the unique needs and challenges of cannabis dispensaries.

Navigating health benefits in the cannabis industry can be daunting. With thin margins and fluctuating cash flows, providing comprehensive healthcare to employees can seem like an unattainable luxury for many dispensary owners. Craig brings a wealth of experience and innovative solutions that help dispensaries offer competitive health benefits without breaking the bank.

In this episode, you'll discover:
- The challenges cannabis businesses face with traditional health insurance.
- Innovative tax incentive wellness programs that can be implemented from day one.
- How voluntary benefits plans can lead to savings and boost employee health and morale.
- The magic of hospital indemnity programs and their tax advantages specifically beneficial to the cannabis sector.
- Strategies for leveraging the Affordable Care Act to provide cost-effective health benefits.

Craig also walks us through the financial mechanics of these programs, illustrating how dispensaries can leverage government subsidies and tax breaks to provide essential health services without the hefty price tag. He sheds light on personalized benefits programs, which allow employees to choose benefits that truly meet their needs, enhancing job satisfaction and retention.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your existing employee benefits, this conversation with Craig is packed with actionable insights and creative strategies to help you build a healthier, happier workplace.

For those thinking about taking the next step, we encourage reaching out to Craig via his LinkedIn or visiting kindbenefits.co for more tailored advice and services. Don’t forget, providing robust health benefits is not only possible on a budget, but it could be a key differentiator in the competitive cannabis industry.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and drop a comment on your podcast app. It helps us reach more listeners like you who are dedicated to growing and scaling their cannabis businesses. Until next time, keep growing and stay green!

Highlights
00:00 Introduction to KayaCast
00:11 Challenges of Offering Employee Health Benefits
00:19 Introducing Craig from Kind Benefits
01:13 Tax Incentive Wellness Programs
02:05 Cost and Participation Details
05:58 Affordable Care Act and Employee Benefits
08:49 Personalized Benefits Approach
09:41 Navigating the Health Exchange
18:49 Considerations for Using a PEO
25:29 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Thanks for tuning into KayaCast, the premier podcast for cannabis business insights. Visit our website to join our newsletter and stay ahead with expert tips and industry news, all dedicated to helping your dispensary thrive.

Find out more about Kind Benefits at:
https://www.kindbenefits.co/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigscurato/
https://www.instagram.com/kind_benefits/
https://x.com/kindbenefits?s=21&t=Zbj0yLLxz5QFNMphiMjOdg
https://www.facebook.com/BranchBenefits

#KayaCastPodcast #CannabisBusiness #EmployeeHealthBenefits #KindBenefits #CraigScurato #TaxIncentives #WellnessPrograms #VoluntaryBenefits #HospitalIndemnityPrograms #AffordableCareAct #PersonalizedBenefits #HealthcareSolutions #PEO #CannabisIndustry #HealthcareOnABudget #GrowAndScale #StayGreen #KayaCommunity #StayInformed #ExpertTips #IndustryNews #DispensarySuccess

Welcome to a highly insightful episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, where we delve deep into the intricacies of cannabis retail strategy. We're thrilled to host Richard McLean, the head of retail at Vibe by California, a leader in the competitive cannabis market of California.

In this episode, Richard shares his rich experience in both cannabis and traditional retail, offering unparalleled insights into inventory management, vendor relationships, market adaptation, and much more. Discover the unique challenges of cannabis retail, from handling perishable inventory with strategic purchasing to understanding the nuanced demands of different regional markets.

Richard explains the importance of building strong relationships with vendors to navigate the fluctuations of the cannabis market and reveals tactics for leveraging promotional items and rebates to enhance customer offerings. He also discusses the critical differences in consumer behavior across various store locations, emphasizing the need to tailor retail strategies to specific community needs.

For those looking to expand, Richard offers sage advice on opening a second location and the importance of understanding local market dynamics and regulations. He shares his personal experiences and practical strategies for ensuring the success and profitability of new retail outlets.

Whether you're a new retailer crafting your initial inventory strategy or an established player considering expansion, this episode is packed with valuable strategies and real-world insights to help you succeed in the dynamic world of cannabis retail.

Don't miss this invaluable conversation geared towards helping cannabis dispensaries thrive. Tune in now and equip yourself with the knowledge to propel your cannabis retail business forward!

Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to KayaCast
00:21 Guest Introduction: Richard McLean
00:54 Understanding Cannabis Retail Strategy
03:48 Inventory Management in Cannabis Retail
05:28 Leveraging Supplier Relationships
06:14 Adapting to Market Changes
16:12 Customer Feedback and Engagement
18:26 Expanding to a Second Location
21:08 Navigating Local Cannabis Regulations
22:43 Opening a Second Location: Best Practices
25:09 Hiring and Training for Success
27:14 Managing Multiple Stores: Key Strategies
28:58 Customer Experience and Sales Techniques
33:08 Effective Employee Training Programs
37:23 Ensuring Accountability and Performance
41:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Find out more about Vibe by California at:
https://www.vibebycalifornia.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/vibebycalifornia/
https://www.instagram.com/vibebycalifornia_/

#KayaCast #CannabisRetail #RetailStrategy #VibeByCalifornia #InventoryManagement #VendorRelationships #MarketAdaptation #PerishableInventory #PromotionalItems #Rebates #ConsumerBehavior #LocalMarkets #CommunityNeeds #Expansion #SecondLocation #MarketDynamics #Regulations #Success #Profitability #Dispensaries #Thriving #RealWorldInsights #ValuableStrategies #Knowledge #CannabisBusiness #CustomerFeedback #Engagement #Hiring #Training #MultipleStores #CustomerExperience #SalesTechniques #EmployeeTraining #Accountability #Performance

Welcome to a new episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, where we explore the dynamic world of the cannabis industry. In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Amanda Reiman, Chief Knowledge Officer of New Frontier Data, a leader in consumer cannabis data since 2015. Join us as we dive deep into the evolving consumer trends shaping both emerging and mature cannabis markets and discuss strategies for competing with the enduring gray market in states like New York and California.

Amanda provides us with an insightful look into the shift toward non-smoked methods of cannabis consumption and the developing sophistication among consumers, moving beyond just choosing between Indica and Sativa to understanding terpene profiles, potency levels, and the unique effects of minor cannabinoids like CBN. We also discuss the impact of new technologies such as nanoemulsification on the edibles market, potentially revolutionizing consumer experiences by offering faster onset times and a more manageable high.

Further into our conversation, Amanda shares strategies for cannabis retailers to attract and increase their customer base and basket size using targeted data-driven approaches. Learn about the importance of understanding your customer demographics and preferences, and how to leverage this information to tailor offerings that meet specific consumer needs.

We also explore the broader implications of regulatory changes on the cannabis beverage market and the future potential of consumption lounges as community-focused, safe spaces for consumption. Lastly, Amanda gives us a sneak peek into her educational project, My Personal Plants, and sheds light on the importance of fostering an informed and healthy relationship with cannabis.

Whether you’re a cannabis business owner, industry professional, or just a curious listener, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the future of cannabis consumption and how businesses can adapt and thrive in this ever-changing landscape.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Learn more about New Frontier Data here:
https://newfrontierdata.com/
https://www.instagram.com/newfrontierdata/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/newfrontierdata/

Find out more about Amanda here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-reiman-phd-msw/
https://www.mypersonalplants.com/

Highlights:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:05 Consumer Behavior in Emerging vs. Mature Markets
00:38 Shift Towards Non-Smoked Methods of Consumption
01:58 Sophistication and Changing Demographics in Cannabis Consumption
03:35 Challenges for Legal Retailers in Emerging Markets
07:38 The Role of Nanoemulsification in Edibles
12:22 Leveraging Data to Attract More Customers
20:12 Educating on Cannabis for Sleep
20:50 Barriers to Medical Cannabis Adoption
22:33 Cannabis Beverage Industry Insights
23:58 The Future of Consumption Lounges
25:33 Historical Context of Social Consumption
27:38 Health Risks and Safety in Consumption Lounges
30:25 Leveraging Data for Retail Success
36:55 My Personal Plants: A Balanced Approach to Cannabis
42:18 Conclusion and Contact Information

#KayaCastPodcast #CannabisIndustry #NewFrontierData #ConsumerTrends #GrayMarket #EmergingMarkets #MatureMarkets #NonSmokedCannabis #TerpeneProfiles #PotencyLevels #MinorCannabinoids #CBN #Nanoemulsification #EdiblesMarket #DataDrivenApproaches #CustomerDemographics #TargetedOfferings #RegulatoryChanges #CannabisBeverageMarket #ConsumptionLounges #CommunitySpaces #EducationalProject #MyPersonalPlants #InformedCannabisConsumption #Spotify #ApplePodcasts #PodcastListeners #CannabisBusinessOwners #IndustryProfessionals #CannabisEducation #FosteringHealthyRelationships #NewEpisode #AmandaReiman #ChiefKnowledgeOfficer #RetailSuccess #HealthRisks #Safety #FutureofCannabisConsumption #ContactInformation.

In this episode of Kaya Cast, we delve deep into the mind of a top cannabis industry investor, Scott Grossman, the strategic force behind Turning Point Brands. With a rich background in investment banking and extensive experience in both private and public equity, Scott brings unparalleled insights into what really catches an investor's eye in the burgeoning cannabis market.

What You'll Learn:
- Investment Strategies: Scott outlines his approach to evaluating cannabis businesses, emphasizing the importance of a solid team and a clear understanding of the market problem the business intends to solve.
- Essential Business Qualities: Discover the key attributes Scott believes are vital for a business to attract investment, including direct experience, operational understanding, and a compelling value proposition.
- Advice for Entrepreneurs: Scott provides actionable advice for cannabis entrepreneurs on what to consider when approaching investors, how to demonstrate potential for scalability and defendability in the market.
- Navigating Challenges: Learn about the nuances of investment in the volatile cannabis industry and how businesses can position themselves to be more attractive for investment.
- Insider Insights: Gain insights from Scott’s robust experience on mistakes to avoid and strategies to employ when seeking funds to ensure your business not only survives but thrives in competitive markets.

This episode is a goldmine for any cannabis entrepreneur aiming to understand the investor’s perspective deeply. Scott not only shares what attracts investment but also discusses common pitfalls and the resilience required to succeed. Whether you're preparing for your initial pitch or looking to expand, Scott’s expert advice could potentially pivot your business strategy towards greater success.

Make sure to tune in to this insightful conversation full of actionable strategies that could help elevate your cannabis business to the next level!

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever else you love to listen.

Subscribe to Kaya Cast Podcast for more insights on growing and scaling your cannabis business successfully.

Highlights
00:00 Introduction to KayaCast
00:20 Meet Scott Grossman: Investment Insights
00:59 Key Factors for Investment: The Team
05:06 Retail Experience and Unique Value Propositions
09:29 Top Qualities for Entrepreneurs
14:32 The Importance of Resiliency
17:35 Raising Capital: Strategy and Execution
20:33 Building Prototypes and Demonstrating Value
23:30 Understanding Your Customer Base
24:04 Raising Capital: Key Considerations
27:01 Building a Cannabis Brand
29:16 Finding Investors in the Cannabis Industry
35:50 Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch
37:04 Evaluating Investors and Metrics
43:25 Personal Investment Insights
45:30 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Find out more about Turning Point Brands, Inc at:
https://www.turningpointbrands.com/home/default.aspx
https://www.linkedin.com/company/turning-point-brands-inc./

#kayacast

In this enlightening episode of Kaya Cast, we sit down with Jeffrey Hoffman, the experienced New York cannabis attorney and the mind behind Jeffrey Hoffman & Associates PLLC. With a wealth of knowledge drawn from his extensive legal practice and his popular 420 talk on LinkedIn, Jeffrey provides invaluable advice for newcomers and seasoned cannabis entrepreneurs alike.

Why are there so many lawsuits in the cannabis industry? How can you safeguard your cannabis business against legal pitfalls? Jeffrey dives deep into the common legal mistakes made by cannabis business owners and shares key tips on how to navigate the complex regulatory environment in New York. He explains the critical importance of working with experienced legal professionals to avoid costly errors, specific to cannabis business requirements such as the nuances in lease agreements and federal law compliance.

Moreover, Jeffrey discusses the implications of not fulfilling the LLC publication requirement in New York, a seemingly small oversight that can have substantial legal consequences. He also gives practical advice on selecting a cannabis attorney who truly understands the intricacies of the industry, helping to prevent litigation and ensure your business operates within the legal framework.

Whether you're planning to open a new dispensary or scale your existing operations, this episode is packed with essential insights that will assist you in making informed decisions and steering clear of common yet avoidable legal issues. Tune in to arm yourself with the knowledge you need to succeed in the competitive cannabis market of New York.

Availability: Stream this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or directly from our website. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful discussions designed to help you grow your cannabis business responsibly and lucratively.

Find out more about Jeffrey Hoffman & Associates PLLC at:
https://www.420jurist.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heavyj/

Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Cannabis Industry Lawsuits
01:01 Common Legal Mistakes in Cannabis Startups
02:18 Understanding Legal Requirements for Cannabis Businesses
05:40 Navigating Lease and Mortgage Challenges
10:11 Choosing the Right Legal Support
14:04 Complexities of Cannabis Deals and Regulations
15:34 The Impact of Regulations and Lawsuits
20:00 The Role of Attorneys in the Cannabis Industry
22:01 The Litigation Process and Its Implications
22:56 The Importance of Legal Counsel
23:31 Navigating Regulatory Changes
24:01 Opening a Cannabis Store: Key Considerations
25:34 Understanding New York's Two-Tier System
28:54 Employee Regulations in the Cannabis Industry
30:06 Outsourcing and Legal Complexities
33:48 Current State of the New York Cannabis Market
37:49 Challenges with the Illicit Market
41:34 Conclusion and Contact Information

#kayacast #newyork #dispensary #cannabis

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the Kaya Cast Podcast, where we bridge the gap between the rapidly evolving cannabis industry and the world of business. Today, we're joined by Peter Su, a seasoned veteran in the banking sector with a unique specialty: he's launched not one, not two, but three successful cannabis banking programs. His latest endeavor at Hanover Bank aims to treat cannabis businesses just like any other, striving to remove the stigma and operational hurdles that many face today.

In this episode, Peter shares his wealth of knowledge on what cannabis businesses should look for in a banking partner, the everyday challenges of financing in the industry, and how Hanover Bank is setting itself apart by providing comprehensive, normalized banking services to cannabis operators. Plus, he offers invaluable advice for individuals in the cannabis sector struggling to access financial services like loans or mortgages.

If you've ever been curious about the financial nuances of the cannabis industry or are seeking practical advice on overcoming banking barriers, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as Peter lends his expert insights to help demystify cannabis banking, revealing both the progress made and the paths forward for businesses and individuals alike.

Key Points We’ll Cover:
- Criteria for selecting a cannabis-friendly bank
- The unique challenges and solutions in cannabis banking from Peter’s perspective
- Practical advice for cannabis industry workers navigating personal banking and loans
- The vision and future plans for Hanover Bank in the cannabis banking space
- An insightful discussion on the Asian Cannabis Roundtable and its role in changing perceptions and fostering community within the industry

Enjoy this episode for a clearer understanding of how banking can support the growth and normalization of the cannabis industry. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more expert discussions like this, and visit our website for an archive of past episodes. Happy listening!

00:00 Introduction to KayaCast
00:16 Guest Introduction: Peter SU from Hanover Bank
00:58 Cannabis Banking Experience
01:22 Challenges in Cannabis Banking
02:58 Treating Cannabis Businesses Like Normal Businesses
06:11 Advice for Cannabis Industry Employees
11:37 Personal Banking for Cannabis Industry Workers
14:54 Future of Cannabis Banking at Hanover
25:28 Asian Cannabis Roundtable
29:49 Conclusion and Contact Information
30:44 Thank You and Podcast Information

Available on all major podcast platforms. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app to never miss an episode.
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Tune in, learn, and leverage these insights to help your cannabis business thrive in a complex landscape!

Find out more about Hanover Bank at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/petersu/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hanoverbank/

#KayaCast #CannabisIndustry #Business #Banking #HanoverBank #CannabisBanking #FinancialServices #IndustryInsights #AsianCannabisRoundtable #Community #ExpertAdvice #SpecialtyBanking #CannabisFinancing #Mortgages #Loans #NormalizingCannabis #DemystifyingBanking #Growth #Progress #Subscribe #ExpertDiscussions #Podcast #Insights #Episode #WelcomeBack #SeasonedVeteran #BridgeTheGap #CannabisAndBusiness #Stigma #OperationalHurdles #Success #ThreePrograms #TreatingCannabisBusinesses #Criteria #Selection #Challenges #Solutions #PracticalAdvice #PersonalBanking #AsianCommunity #ChangingPerceptions #FosteringCommunity #GrowthAndNormalization #ComplexLandscape #Thrive #ExpertInsights #HappyListening

In this unmissable episode of Kaya Cast, we sit down with Tim Gunther of ILoveCompliance.biz, bringing over nine years of expertise in steering cannabis businesses towards foolproof compliance. Tim delves deep into the common pitfalls in cannabis regulations, sharing his wealth of knowledge on straightforward yet overlooked practices that can safeguard your operation from hefty fines and regulatory headaches.

Discover practical advice on managing video retention, inventory protocols, and the intricate changes of ownership that could potentially save your business tens of thousands of dollars. Tim also illuminates how better understanding your state's regulators and their requirements can transform them from foes to allies in your business journey.

Moreover, learn the ins and outs of maintaining employee compliance training records, the significance of your relationship with inspectors, and harnessing public records of fines as learning tools to stay ahead. Tim doesn't just highlight problems but provides actionable solutions, advocating for regular audits, the strategic use of technology, and fostering a proactive compliance culture.

Whether you're a new dispensary owner drafting your first SOPs or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with invaluable insights to help you navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, ensuring your business not only survives but thrives in the challenging yet rewarding world of cannabis.

Tune in to gain a competitive edge by mastering the art of compliance with expert insights from Tim Gunther. Subscribe to the Kaya Cast on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode on powering up your cannabis business!

Find out more about ILoveCompliance.Biz at:
https://ilovecompliance.biz/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ilovecompliance/
https://www.instagram.com/ilovecompliance/

Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to KayaCast and Compliance Challenges
00:24 Guest Introduction: Tim Gunther from I Love Compliance
01:13 Common Compliance Violations in the Cannabis Industry
04:45 Understanding State Regulations and Staying Updated
07:45 Learning from Fines and Sanctions
11:03 Best Practices for Compliance and Vendor Selection
16:47 Writing Effective SOPs and Ensuring Compliance
22:40 Training Managers to Use Camera Systems
24:39 Importance of Self-Reporting
26:31 Building a Culture of Compliance
30:34 Understanding Your Inspectors
34:47 Writing Effective SOPs
38:02 Best Practices for Document Management
41:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#kayacast #cannabis #compliance