Podcast Show Notes with Brandon Banks

Self-taught cannabis cultivator and business owner, Brandon Banks, stands up for minority inclusion in the industry both as an individual and as a member of Minority Cannabis Business Association. Listen to his passionate journey of getting into the industry from growing sprouts in his basement to award-winning cannabis strains, and becoming a dispensary owner.

Despite more state regulations being progressively created in the US, there are significant gaps on social equity and industry accessibility to minorities. Community reinvestment and license openings are just a couple of goals in the MCBA’s work. Their members participate in policy creation to raise these matters and aim for more inclusive legal frameworks.

You can get in touch with Brandon at brandonb@minoritycannabis.org or visit minoritycannabis.org to learn more.

Podcast Show Notes with Bill Loucks

Our conversation with Bill Loucks went around the perception cops have on hemp and cannabis, how consumers and businesses in the industry can contribute to a safer use and what further is there to do about a broader awareness of hemp.

Bill started with a couple stories that led to his mindset switch from regarding hemp as a dangerous substance to becoming a commodity.

Moving on, Bill shared his view on law enforcement pointing out that most police officers are unaware of the difference between hemp and cannabis, which leads to confusion and also strengthens stereotypes.

Following the latter, he listed best practice tips for consumers and businesses in the hemp industry, to support the authorities to determine the legality of the product being used or manufactured. For growers, he explained why it is important to communicate with the police on harvest season.

Bill finished with his consideration on the next step in the transition to greater social acceptance around hemp-derived products.

You can reach out to Bill at www.HempCops.com or Bill@hempcops.com to get further guidance and information on training programs.

Podcast Show Notes with Mike Michalowicz

There are approximately 3,000 CBD brands in the United States; how do you stand out in such a large crowd?

Best-selling business author Mike Michalowicz joined us to shed a light on differentiating your business, one particular frustration for many hemp entrepreneurs. From systematizing our business, to taking on the courage to be different than the competition, Mike shares advice for those seeking to turn their brands into unique players in their field.

Spoiler alert: you may start with something really small, you don’t have to re-invent your industry.

For exclusive resources from Mike to our podcast listeners go here.

Mike’s new book Get Different will launch in September and can be found here.