In Episode 5 of Retail Revelations, a podcast dedicated to candid discussions about the cannabis retail sector, host Chelsea Mulligan—recognized as the “Dispensary Whisperer”—delivered an unfiltered exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing license holders across the United States.
With extensive experience managing and triaging over eighty dispensaries as a solo consultant and contributing to more than 120 licenses nationwide, Mulligan offers invaluable insights into the operational hurdles and strategic necessities of cannabis retail. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she has continued her consulting efforts, focusing on operations and compliance to support industry growth.
The episode’s featured guest was Britni Tantalo, president of the New York Cannabis Retail Association (NYCRA), a leading trade organization advocating for equitable cannabis policies in New York. Tantalo shared her personal journey—from early cannabis use and racial profiling to her successful application for New York’s conditional adult-use retail dispensary license, known as the CARD program.
Tantalo recounted the initial high hopes for the program, which promised turnkey dispensaries and low-interest loans, only to face significant delays and infrastructural shortcomings. She described the chaotic rollout characterized by lawsuits, weak communication, and a fractured supply chain, which she and her colleagues addressed through the formation of the NYCRA coalition. This community-focused effort prioritized resource sharing, SOP development, and collaboration over competition—fostering a resilient network amid adversity.
She emphasized the ongoing threat posed by highly capitalized illicit operators operating under the guise of legality, highlighting the importance of regulation and compliance to protect legitimate businesses and consumers. Tantalo also discussed her advocacy for women and people of color in cannabis, emphasizing resilience, authenticity, and the need for louder voices to ensure equitable representation.
Balancing her roles as a mother, business owner, and community leader, Tantalo candidly shared the emotional and logistical challenges of navigating state regulations, managing family life, and building a sustainable cannabis industry in New York. She advised aspiring industry entrants to prioritize regulatory adherence, community networking, and financial preparedness, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability in an emerging market.
Looking ahead, Tantalo expressed optimism about New York’s progress, noting improvements in agency communication, increased retail licenses, and the resilience of local entrepreneurs. She concluded by encouraging support for industry advocacy efforts and sharing her contact information for those interested in connecting with her work.
Retail Revelations continues to serve as a platform for honest dialogue about the realities of cannabis retail, aiming to educate, inspire, and foster community among license holders, industry professionals, and consumers alike.
