In a candid and inspiring episode of Some Guys Talking on the Beard Bros Media Network, industry veteran Byron Staton opened up about his unique journey from a passionate car guy to a seasoned cannabis consultant and mentor. Hosted by Brian Holler and Aaron Washington, the episode delved into Byron’s background, his career evolution, and his insights into the marijuana industry.
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From the Fast Lane to Green Growth
Byron’s story begins in Kentucky and Ohio, where he was raised in a family that openly embraced cannabis, viewing it more as a lifestyle than a taboo. With early exposure to the plant, Byron’s relationship with cannabis was rooted in familiarity and acceptance, setting him apart from many in the industry who faced stigma and opposition.
After years working as a product engineer for a major U.S. car company, Byron sensed the shifting tides around cannabis legalization. In 2008-2009, he made the leap westward to Seattle, eager to explore the burgeoning legal cannabis scene. “I left the car business because I knew things were going to go legal,” he explained. “Seattle was where I wanted to be, and I jumped in with both feet, starting at a larger scale as a caregiver.”
A Dual Passion for Cars and Cannabis
Throughout the episode, Byron emphasized his lifelong love for automobiles. His expertise in enterprise-level automotive operations provided him with a foundational understanding of corporate structure, hierarchy, and operational efficiency—knowledge he now applies to his cannabis consulting work.
“Cars and cannabis are my two passions,” Byron shared. “Even when I was in the industry, I always maintained my love for cars. I like mentoring teams and building culture in cannabis facilities—there’s a lot of crossover in discipline and leadership.”
Breaking Down Barriers and Stigma
Byron’s openness about his family’s acceptance of cannabis and his proactive approach to normalizing its use has been a defining feature of his journey. He recounted how he addressed misconceptions with his own children and community, emphasizing that honesty and transparency foster trust and understanding.
“Getting the stigma out of the way is part of the process,” he said. “I post about it on LinkedIn, share my experiences, and show that you can be a professional, a good parent, and an advocate for this plant.”
Mentorship, Culture, and Business Savvy
Throughout the conversation, Byron stressed the importance of mentorship, proactive effort, and cultivating a positive company culture. He advocates for building trust through communication, investing in employees, and implementing processes that balance profitability with a strong cultural foundation.
“Business success in cannabis isn’t just about the product,” Byron noted. “It’s about people—paying them well, nurturing them, and creating a culture where everyone feels valued.”
His approach extends to navigating regulatory landscapes across different states, emphasizing adaptability and learning from diverse markets. “Every state is different,” he explained. “You have to adjust your approach depending on local laws, culture, and history.”
A Call for Authenticity and Proactivity
In closing, Byron offered sage advice to aspiring industry professionals: be genuine, proactive, and relentless in pursuing your goals. “Nobody’s going to hand you success—you have to kick down doors and make it happen,” he urged. “Get up every day and work for what you want. Mentorship, networking, and discipline are your best tools.”
His authenticity resonated with hosts and listeners alike, reinforcing a core message: genuine relationships and consistent effort are key to thriving in the ever-evolving cannabis industry.
As the episode wrapped up, Byron’s insights served as a reminder of the industry’s roots and the importance of integrity, hard work, and community. With decades of experience and a passion for growth, Byron Staton exemplifies what it means to evolve, mentor, and lead in the cannabis space.
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This episode of Some Guys Talking offers a window into the journey of a man who has navigated multiple industries, breaking barriers and building bridges along the way. Whether you’re in cannabis, cars, or any entrepreneurial pursuit, Byron’s story underscores the value of authenticity and proactive effort in carving out your path. Watch the full episode here.
