What’s the biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now, and how are you and/or your company addressing it?
In my personal opinion I believe it is the education around this medicine in general. In PA specifically there is has been a huge marketing push for high THC products and not enough attention to the terpenes and cannabinoids which create the entourage effect making cannabis so special. Unfortunately THC rules the pricing structure rather than the quality of the product. I feel as the education revolving around the immense benefits outside of THC continue to grow the market will push towards higher quality cannabis rather than simply focusing on THC value.
Where do you see the most exciting opportunity for growth and innovation in cannabis?
Concentrates and the variety of edibles/consumable products. The ingenuity and creativity that some of the G/Ps posses is immensely impressive and I can’t wait to see how far people can take this plant. One of my personal favorites is the team behind “Blue River Terps”.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to break into the cannabis industry?
Just keep going, there will be multiple trials and tribulations when trying to break into this industry. If it doesn’t work at first, don’t get discouraged. Someone will see the passion in you and you will land somewhere with true value.
What is the most important thing you have learned from your experiences in the cannabis industry?
You are only as good as those around you. Without a doubt the people you keep in your circle can make or break the day to day. I don’t know where I would be without the support from my close friends I’ve made in this industry. You absolutely NEED good people around you to lift you up when you stumble or face challenges.
What do you want your legacy to be as it relates to the cannabis industry?
I want to provide quality medicine that puts a smile on someone’s face. I want patients to feel as much joy as they do benefits when consuming this medicine. This plant as made such an impact in my life as well as others lives that I only want people to feel the same appreciation for how this plant can change our life that I have seen and experienced.