What’s the biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now, and how are you and/or your company addressing it?
The cannabis industry is being strangled by overregulation and overtaxation, particularly in California. One stark example is the burden placed on medical cannabis patients—people who rely on cannabis as medicine but are being driven out of the legal market by unnecessary costs and bureaucracy. At Meadow, our roots in Prop 215 have shaped our belief that cannabis is medicine and should be treated with compassion, not taxed like a luxury. By championing patient equity and advocating for no taxes on medical cannabis, we aim to create pathways for accessible, affordable, and safe cannabis for everyone.
Where do you see the most exciting opportunity for growth and innovation in cannabis?
There’s still so much to discover in cannabis, and the expanded research into cannabinoids, terpene profiles, and genetics excites me most. California’s robust breeding environment continues to set the bar for innovation, with unique strains emerging from genetic cross-pollination and landrace preservation. At Meadow, we integrate these advancements into our point-of-sale and e-commerce tools, which helps consumers navigate this complexity and empowering them to make more informed choices. The future of cannabis lies in both the sophistication of its products and the education of its consumers.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to break into the cannabis industry?
The cannabis space necessitates collaboration and value exchange, so networking and finding good humans will go a long way in helping each other succeed.
What is the most important thing you have learned from your experiences in the cannabis industry?
The cannabis industry has taught me the importance of resilience. From evolving regulations to shifting market dynamics, you have to be ready to adapt. Change is the only constant here, and success comes from staying nimble, having a strong team, and finding opportunities in the challenges.
What do you want your legacy to be as it relates to the cannabis industry?
I want my legacy to be one of meaningful, lasting change—helping to build a cannabis industry that’s equitable, sustainable, and accessible. Whether through advocating for better laws, empowering small operators, or leveraging technology to lower barriers, my goal is to create a responsible industry that prioritizes people and the plant over profits. I want to leave behind an ecosystem where everyone—patients, operators, and consumers—can thrive.
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