In the ever-evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, Sarah Kubik stands out as a multifaceted professional whose journey reflects both personal resilience and a commitment to fostering growth and collaboration. Previously an inviting guest on the popular podcast Some Guys Talking, Kubik discussed her pathways from the stage to the cannabis market, touching upon her extensive experience that fuels her passion for developing innovation within this burgeoning field.
From Stage to Store: A Unique Journey
Sarah Kubik was born in Santa Monica but moved to Boston at a young age, where she grew up and later pursued a degree in theater at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire. Her artistic pursuits led her to New York City, where she spent five years immersed in the theater scene and worked in various restaurants to support her aspirations. However, a series of health challenges, including six major surgeries, redirected her career trajectory towards the cannabis industry.
In the early days of her career in cannabis, Kubik joined MedMen, a well-known cannabis retailer, where she began as a manager of hospitality. She recognized her passion for helping others find their footing in the retail space while educating customers about the benefits of cannabis. “In my eyes, if you cannot build a culture, morale, and mutual understanding among staff and customers, then it’s an uphill battle,” she shared during the podcast.
Cultivating Connections and Collaboration
Throughout her career, Kubik has held various roles where she strived to connect people, including working with brands, retailers, and cannabis producers. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration in the industry, as well as the significance of transparency. “We need to build partnerships—where brands and retailers can triumph together rather than working against each other,” Kubik remarked.
Her experience in hospitality and sales has equipped her with the understanding that customer interaction is essential to building brand loyalty and operational success. In her view, marketing should never be the first cut in a budget; rather, it is the lifeblood of consumer engagement and sales.
Joining Forces with Joint Commerce
As Kubik walks her path through the cannabis industry, she has also become a consultant, focusing on helping companies navigate the complexities of cannabis regulation while ensuring they maintain high standards for customer service and product quality. Recently, she has allied with Joint Commerce, a programmatic advertising firm partnered with Beard Bros Media, to deliver innovative marketing solutions that assist cannabis brands and retailers in reaching their target customers effectively.
Programmatic ads, as Kubik discusses, offer a way for brands to acquire new customers and re-engage existing ones. She expressed the importance of collaboration, stating, “It’s not just about showcasing your product; it’s about building a partnership that ensures everyone thrives together.”
“Marketing should be the last thing to go in tough times—it’s how we tell our story,” she noted, emphasizing that effective communication can make the difference between stagnation and growth within the competitive cannabis market.
A Call to Action for Industry Growth
As the cannabis sector faces various challenges—including shifts in consumer behavior, regulatory obstacles, and market saturation—Kubik’s message is clear: collaboration, transparency, and dedicated marketing efforts are keys to survival and success.
“There’s so much hubris in the world right now. We need to work together—teach each other, learn from each other,” she urged her industry peers. Her passionate appeal resonates with those navigating the fluctuating markets, calling for innovative connections and a focus on mutual success.
As Sarah Kubik continues to make strides in the cannabis industry, she invites brands and retailers to explore opportunities for collaboration. Whether it’s through programmatic advertising or shared initiatives, her journey offers a roadmap for those ready to embrace the cooperative spirit necessary for robust growth in a maturing market.
