High Five: Marc Rodriquez

What’s the biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now, and how are you and/or your company addressing it?

There are many challenges facing the cannabis industry, and it’s difficult to pick just one since cannabis companies must fight on multiple fronts simultaneously. From navigating the complex and ever-changing regulatory landscape to dealing with inconsistent enforcement and over-taxation, businesses in this sector face significant hurdles that can stifle growth and limit their potential.

At Green Leaf Payroll and Business Solutions, we address these challenges by providing

specialized payroll and HR services tailored specifically for the cannabis industry. We

understand the unique regulatory requirements our clients face, and we’ve built our services to help them stay compliant while scaling their operations. For example, our Managed HR

Services not only include compliance audits and tailored HR solutions but also solve multiple

problems for our clients. They reduce overhead by putting an expert in place, increase HR

efficiencies, and ensure that businesses are prepared for any regulatory changes that may

come.

Additionally, we’re launching a 401(k)-infrastructure designed to be fully transparent and

compliant with the specific needs of cannabis businesses. This allows our clients to offer

competitive benefits while remaining aligned with industry regulations. By staying ahead of

these challenges and providing proactive solutions, we empower our clients to focus on winning the war on talent in the cannabis industry—ensuring they attract, retain, and develop the best people in this rapidly evolving market.

Where do you see the most exciting opportunity for growth and innovation in cannabis?

The most exciting growth and innovation opportunity in the cannabis industry is all about driving efficiency across every vertical. In my conversations with major MSOs, it’s clear they’re doubling down on investments to streamline operations. Whether it’s implementing a single employee record Payroll and HRIS platform, automating labor-intensive processes, or adopting new business efficiency technologies. The way I see it, the best is yet to come, and the companies that are bold enough to take risks and push boundaries in these areas are the ones that will come out on top.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to break into the cannabis industry?

Be prepared to grind. This industry is not for the faint of heart. Regulations change constantly, competition is fierce, and the challenges can feel never-ending. But if you’re willing to put in the work, stay adaptable, and keep your eyes on the prize, there’s real opportunity here. Commit fully, stay resilient, and be ready to hustle every single day. That’s the only way you’re going to make it and build something that lasts in this space.

What is the most important thing you have learned from your experiences in the cannabis industry?

The most important thing I’ve learned in the cannabis industry is that it’s full of genuinely good people who are passionate about what they do. This industry isn’t just about profits; it’s about a community driven by a shared belief in the benefits of cannabis. Despite the challenges, there’s a strong sense of camaraderie, with people supporting each other, sharing knowledge, and working together. Also, don’t blindly trust anyone. Do your due diligence when dealing with a new vendor or partner.

What do you want your legacy to be as it relates to the cannabis industry?

I want my legacy in the cannabis industry to be defined by innovation, integrity, and positive

impact. Green Leaf pioneered nationwide cannabis payroll services, created the first cannabis-compliant 401(k) program with Tier 1 banking partners, and developed a unique service model that sets us apart in the industry. I want to be remembered for driving these initiatives while always putting people first.

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