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What’s the biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now, and how are you and/or your company addressing it?
One of the most significant challenges currently facing the cannabis industry is its classification as a Schedule 1 substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This status imposes burdensome restrictions, particularly the 280E tax provision, which severely limits operators’ ability to reinvest in their businesses and the broader industry. It also creates significant barriers to scientific research- something we at Mangement Science Associates (MSA) finds especially frustrating. MSA has been actively collaborating with policymakers and regulators across the country to present real-world data on cannabis use in relation to specific health and wellness cond
Where do you see the most exciting opportunity for growth and innovation in cannabis?
For me, the most exciting opportunity in the cannabis space lies in advancing the science. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with countless brilliant researchers and science-driven organizations. As policy continues to evolve, I believe we have a real opportunity to bring consistency and clarity to the industry through education. By doing so, we can expand access, improve guidance, and drive innovation across all sectors of the cannabis ecosystem.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to break into the cannabis industry?
To get started in the cannabis industry, I recommend connecting with local advocacy groups- there are volunteer opportunities in every state. In addition, consider how your current skill set might contribute to this evolving space. The cannabis industry thrives on creativity, enthusiasm, and hard work, and it welcomes professionals from all backgrounds who are passionate about shaping the future.
What is the most important thing you have learned from your experiences in the cannabis industry?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned in this industry is that education is absolutely essential. As states legalize medical cannabis, they quickly move focus to pass adult-use. Yet, due to its Schedule 1 classification, there’s still no clear framework for educating industry professionals or the public at large. From the complexity of the plant and our endocannabinoids systems from emerging research into novel cannabinoids, patients and consumers need reliable data to make informed choices. Education rooted in science is the key to unlocking cannabis’s full potential for therapeutic use and consumer wellness.
What do you want your legacy to be as it relates to the cannabis industry?
When I first began working on Capitol Hill, I met countless constituents desperate for access to medical cannabis. Families uprooted their lives to find CBD for children with epilepsy. Veterans shared how prescription drugs impaired their daily functioning. I met patients of all ages who found relief through cannabis. Ten years later, it is disheartening cannabis remains classified as a Schedule 1 substance. My hope is to leave a legacy rooted in research-using real-world data to inform policymakers, expand access, and ultimately improve lives through responsible cannabis use.