In the latest episode of Regulated Roots, host Kimberly Simms dives into the intricacies of cannabis compliance with Caren Woodson, Senior Director of Compliance and Licensing at Kiva Brands. The episode offers an in-depth discussion on compliance, a cornerstone of the cannabis industry, and its pivotal role in fostering trust, ensuring safety, and shaping the industry’s future.
The Journey to Compliance
Caren Woodson brings over 25 years of experience in cannabis law, policy reform, and regulated market operations. Her career spans nonprofit advocacy with organizations like Americans for Safe Access and the Drug Policy Alliance, as well as hands-on roles in cultivation, retail, and distribution.
“It’s been a wild ride,” Woodson reflects. “The industry’s evolution from collectives under Proposition 215 to today’s complex regulatory framework has been both challenging and rewarding.”
Simms and Woodson highlighted how compliance has become a “guiding compass” for businesses. Beyond being a buzzword, compliance ensures product safety, builds consumer trust, and mitigates operational risks.
Compliance Catchphrases with Meaning
Both Simms and Woodson shared their favorite compliance mantras, adding humor to an otherwise daunting topic.
- Kimberly Sims’ Favorites:
- “Compliance as your guiding compass.”
- “Compliance is a culture, not a checkbox.”
- “Building trust through compliance.”
- Karen Woodson’s Picks:
- “Compliance is where integrity meets practice.”
- “Compliance is a journey.”
- “Defiance through compliance.”
Woodson emphasizes that compliance is not about perfection but about striving for improvement. “No company is 100% compliant all the time,” she notes. “The key is to assess vulnerabilities and commit to perfecting compliance while prioritizing public health and safety.”
Debunking Myths About Compliance
One common misconception is that compliance is prohibitively expensive, especially for small businesses. Woodson debunks this myth: “The cost of non-compliance far outweighs the investment in compliance. Fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage can be catastrophic.”
She advises companies to view compliance as an investment rather than a cost. “It’s your revenue and reputational insurance plan,” she explains. Woodson also highlights cost-saving strategies, such as leveraging compliance software, automating processes, and outsourcing compliance tasks.
The Bigger Picture: Compliance and Prohibition
For Woodson, compliance serves as a tool to combat outdated perceptions of cannabis. “Defiance through compliance is how we end prohibition,” she asserts. By adhering to strict regulations, the industry counters negative stereotypes and proves its legitimacy.
A notable example is the shift in perception by the League of California Cities. Initially a vocal opponent of cannabis legalization, the League now recognizes that regulated dispensaries maintain high compliance standards, such as stringent ID checks.
Looking Ahead
As the cannabis industry continues to mature, both Simms and Woodson stress the importance of fostering a culture of compliance. “It’s not just about following rules; it’s about embodying your company’s values,” says Woodson.
The episode is a must-listen for cannabis professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts seeking insights into the strategies and challenges of compliance. As Simms aptly puts it, “Compliance is the foundation for a successful and sustainable cannabis industry.” For more industry insights, listen to the full episode of Regulated Roots.
*The above article pertains to one discussion point from Regulated Roots, a multi-faceted episode. Subscribe to our Beard Bros Network Media Live Series YouTube Channel. New to this B2B live series? Read more here.
