What’s the biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now, and how are you and/or your company addressing it?
I think that staying compliant and proactive to keep ahead of regulatory shifts is definitely a huge challenge that all cannabis companies have to contend with right now. Driving efficiency, building loyalty among customers, and making sure retail staff and customers are fully educated on the products they’re selling/buying. At Hippos, we’re addressing these challenges by focusing on efficiency, differentiation, and customer connection. It’s how we stand out in a crowded space!
Where do you see the most exciting opportunity for growth and innovation in cannabis?
Personally, I would love to see how federal legalization would change the market, especially in Missouri and surrounding states. I think it would be really cool to see states doing business with each other.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to break into the cannabis industry?
Hustle, grind, hustle, grind…repeat. This industry doesn’t stop. You’ve got to love what you do and be ready to pivot and change anything and everything at any given moment. You never truly know what the day will bring.
What is the most important thing you have learned from your experiences in the cannabis industry?
Clear communication. With so many moving parts in this industry, it’s crucial to make sure that everyone is on the same page and understands the tasks at hand.
5. What do you want your legacy to be as it relates to the cannabis industry?
I want my legacy to be that I helped legitimize and professionalize the cannabis industry. I want to be remembered as someone who raised the standards for compliance, education, and customer experience, and who helped prove that cannabis businesses can be both successful and socially responsible.
