The Dime

Bryan Fields & Kellan Finney
  • 5.0 (1)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Dime

The $100+ billion cannabis industry is fueled by innovative strategies and visionary leaders. Each week, we explore the journeys of CEOs from publicly traded giants, world-renowned scientists, and underground legacy growers shaping the future of this transformative market. Bryan and Kellan uncover how these pioneers built their businesses, navigated failures and found success in this rapidly growing space. Join us to explore the lessons and insights driving the cannabis industry forward.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Navigating the Gray: The Legal Tightrope of Cannabis Risk & Compliance ft. Dan Shapiro

    Everyone can agree—cannabis operates in a legal gray area. For starters, anyone in the industry is technically breaking federal law, as cannabis remains federally illegal. But for an in-house attorney at an MSO, the job isn’t just about navigating federal risk. It’s about understanding where gray meets red, balancing state-by-state regulations, and ensuring compliance across an industry with ever-changing rules—especially for a publicly traded company. This week, we sit down with Dan Shapiro, EVP of Ascend Wellness, to break down: Understanding the legal gray areas in cannabis Shifting regulations, the Farm Bill, and Schedule 3 Balancing legal risk and business strategy in a fragmented industry About Ascend Wellness AWH is a vertically integrated multistate cannabis operator with licenses and assets in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. AWH owns and operates dispensaries and seven state-of-the-art cultivation facilities, growing award-winning strains and producing a curated selection of products for retail and wholesale customers. AWH produces and distributes its in-house Simply Herb, Ozone, Common Goods, Effin' and Royale branded products. AWH also produces and distributes products on behalf of its brand partners including Miss Grass, Lowell Smokes, Flower by Edie Parker, 1906, and AiroPro. For more information, visit www.awholdings.com. Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-shapiro-78830026/ https://www.awholdings.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ascendwellnessholdings https://x.com/AscendHoldings Key Topics Discussed (AI Generated) ⏱ [00:00 - 03:00] Introduction & Dan Shapiro’s Background Dan’s journey from law school to the cannabis industry His experience in highly regulated industries like aviation, insurance, and sports ⏱ [03:01 - 10:30] The Role of an In-House Attorney at an MSO Balancing legal risk vs. business strategy How MSOs structure legal teams and compliance The complexities of managing multiple state regulations ⏱ [10:31 - 18:45] Navigating Cannabis’s Legal Gray Area Why cannabis law lacks case precedent compared to other industries The challenge of interpreting regulations that are themselves unclear How MSOs make decisions with legal uncertainty ⏱ [18:46 - 25:30] Federal Illegality & The Risks It Poses The reality of operating in an industry that is still federally illegal How rescheduling (Schedule 3) could impact MSOs Banking & financial hurdles in cannabis ⏱ [25:31 - 32:15] The Farm Bill & The Hemp vs. Cannabis Debate How hemp-derived products challenge the traditional cannabis market The regulatory gaps between Farm Bill hemp and state-regulated cannabis How MSOs view hemp expansion ⏱ [32:16 - 38:50] State-by-State Regulations & Compliance Challenges Why no two states regulate cannabis the same way How MSOs strategize around shifting laws Scenario planning for regulatory changes ⏱ [38:51 - 45:00] Creative Legal Solutions in Cannabis How MSOs navigate ambiguous rules Balancing aggressive vs. conservative legal approaches Why legal teams in cannabis must be flexible ⏱ [45:01 - 50:00] Future of Cannabis Law & Final Thoughts Predictions for Schedule 3 and federal reform Why the industry needs more alignment for real progress Dan’s dream smoke session: Thomas Jefferson, Elvis Presley, and Tiger Woods Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    46 min

  2. 16 JAN

    The COO’s Playbook: Balancing Automation, Quality, and Efficiency Across 14 States at Verano ft. Trip McDermott

    Standard Operating Procedures—every company has them. But how do you maintain consistency when a single change can ripple across 14 states, 15 cultivation sites, and 150 retail locations? Verano faces the challenge of creating continuity across a vast and diverse footprint. Each state presents unique regulations and operational nuances, yet the expectation for repeatability in product quality and customer experience remains unwavering. Balancing automation, efficiency, and quality isn’t just a logistical feat—it’s a deliberate strategy rooted in precision and innovation. As Ray Dalio says, “Make sure everyone is in the right seat on the bus.” At Verano, this principle guides their team and processes, ensuring every product upholds the highest standards of excellence across the supply chain. This week we sit down with Trip McDermott to discuss the following: An inside look at the role of a COO in an MSO The challenges and impact of changing an SOP Balancing automation, efficiency, and product quality Time Trials strategy for optimization Episode Highlights Tripp's Cannabis Journey (00:01:13) - Started in finance, working with oil and gas companies - Discovered cannabis industry in Colorado around 2014 - Began networking and learning about the emerging market - Joined Verano in 2015 to help organize and streamline operations Operational Excellence (00:36:00) - Focus on incorporating automation without compromising quality - Implementing detailed time trials and performance tracking - Developing consistent standard operating procedures (SOPs) across multiple states - Emphasis on employee empowerment and optimal team placement Product Innovation (00:33:23) - Coordinated multi-state product launches - Developing 2-gram vape pens under the Savvy brand - Innovative launch events like terpene bars - Introducing barrel-style pre-rolls Future Vision (00:50:38) - Expanding product lines - Refining extraction processes - Potential state market expansions - Exploring brand partnerships and acquisitions Guest Links: https://verano.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/trip-mcdermott-2aa9a51a/ https://www.instagram.com/veranobrands https://www.linkedin.com/company/verano-holdings/ https://x.com/veranobrands Our Links Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    52 min

  3. 9 JAN

    She Hits Different: The Story Behind Cake's Explosive Growth ft. Chloe Kaleiokalani

    Cake is hitting different. A hockey stick chart is every founder's dream—but what looks like overnight success often hides expertise built years behind the scenes. Thriving in California's intense, competitive cannabis market? That’s a different beast altogether. Pink, chrome, fur—Cake's branding immediately resonates with its target audience. A masterclass in brand authenticity. This week, we sit down with Chloe Kaleiokalani to discuss the following: How Chloe's vision for Cake became the top vape brand in the country. What is Designer Distillate Playbook for expanding their brand And so much more. Key Topics Discussed • CAKE's Origin Story (00:02:55) • Started as cannabis growers • Transitioned to extraction and vape production • Launched brand in 2020 • Branding and Marketing Strategy (00:08:05) • Unique pink branding • Targeting festival and EDM culture • Creating an approachable, fun cannabis experience • Product Line Expansion (00:14:59) • Designer Distillate vapes • Chrome Live Resin • Upcoming Dab Device • Plans for flower and pre-roll lines • Market Expansion (00:28:49) • Currently in California, Arizona, and soon Nevada • Careful approach to state-by-state expansion • Adapting products to local market needs Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-kaleiokalani-b380a3299/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cake-she-hits-different/ https://www.instagram.com/cakehitsdifferent/ https://shehitsdifferent.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@shehitsdifferent Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    48 min

  4. 5 JAN

    How Do We Get to a $100 Billion Market? Growth Predictions, Market Consolidations ft Ben Burstein

    Why does it feel like the hemp industry is exploding while regulated cannabis remains stagnant? The numbers may tell one story, but they don’t capture the whole picture. What would a combined cannabis and hemp market look like if both operated with fewer restrictions, better access to resources, and increased capital? This week, we welcome back Ben Burstein to dive into these critical questions and more, including: Why the numbers don’t tell the full story. The real growth drivers behind cannabis and hemp. Predictions for consolidation and expansion. The path to a $100 billion market. Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminburstein/ https://www.leaflink.com/ https://www.instagram.com/leaflink_/ https://x.com/LeafLinkUS Episode Highlights Cannabis and Hemp Market Overview (00:00:56) Total hemp market currently around $10 billion Hemp-derived THC market represents about $5 billion in retail sales Strong growth trajectory with billions added each year Market Dynamics and Expansion (00:02:40) Hemp-derived products offer: State Market Insights (00:25:23) New York standout market Future Industry Predictions (00:56:21) Expected to add billions in sales Improving margins and cost structures Potential Schedule 3 rescheduling Continued market consolidation Our Links Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    1 hr

  5. 26/12/2024

    Uniform Genetics, F1 Hybrids, Better Yields: New Age Cannabis Cultivation ft. Ralph Risch

    F1 hybrid seeds are the cornerstone of modern agriculture, offering the least expensive and most reliable way to grow uniform plants with predictable traits. In the cannabis industry, however, growing from clones has long been the standard because true F1 hybrid seeds were unavailable—until now. Today, F1 hybrid seeds have arrived in cannabis cultivation, delivering the same consumer and agronomic traits that make large-scale production in traditional agriculture so successful. These seeds are not only transforming the economics of cannabis cultivation but also turning pain points into competitive advantages for forward-thinking growers. By applying techniques borrowed from big agriculture, the cannabis industry can now achieve massive payoffs through uniform plants with predictable traits, shifting the narrative from inefficiency to profitability. This week we sit down with Ralph Risch to discuss: Seeds vs. clones: key benefits, costs, and trade-offs. How F1 hybrid seeds are transforming cannabis cultivation. The economic impact of big-ag innovations in cannabis. Key Topics Discussed Ralph's Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:11) Background in emerging markets Transition into the cannabis industry Scientific Approach to Cannabis Breeding (00:02:37) First company taking a scientific approach to breeding Genomics-driven breeding methodology F1 Hybrid Seeds Explained (00:11:52) Difference between traditional and F1 hybrid seeds Uniformity and predictability in plant genetics Genetic Markers and Breeding Innovations (00:28:44) Currently using 15 genetic markers Potential for expanding to 40 markers in future Rare Cannabinoid Research (00:37:07) Exploring CBG, CBC, and other minor cannabinoids Potential therapeutic applications Future of Personalized Cannabis (00:45:53) Discussion on personalized medicine and cannabis Challenges in creating strain-specific solutions About Phylos Phylos is a cannabis genetics company focused on helping growers of all sizes to succeed commercially with seeds that produce the highest quality cannabis in the most cost-effective way. Phylos supports commercial-scale cultivation with the industry’s first Production-Ready Seed™: premium, phenotypically stable, fully-feminized F1 hybrid seeds that deliver exceptional flower quality, potency, vigor, and yield. Phylos also leverages its proprietary technologies and its cultivation, extraction, and formulation expertise to provide partners with unparalleled THCV genetics and natural, safe and effective ingredients. Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphrisch/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/phylosbio/ https://x.com/phylosbio Our Links Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    46 min

  6. 19/12/2024

    Hard Questions for Cannabis Founders: Tony Schor on Creative Capital and M&A Strategies

    Partnerships are more critical in cannabis than in many other industries. The line between success and failure is razor-thin, and most companies don’t have the resources to recover from a failed “marriage.” One of the unique and beautiful challenges of the cannabis industry is the emotional connection founders have with their businesses. Much like a parent’s love for a child, founders tend to see only the good, often downplaying potential downsides. The ability to stay grounded, ask the hard questions, and—most importantly—be culturally and mentally prepared to discuss a “marriage” with another group is daunting. When conversations about capital or potential acquisitions arise, it’s easy to overvalue a business internally. Founders know the countless hours and effort that went into building it, which can cloud judgment about its true market value. This week we sit down with Tony Schor to discuss: Where partnerships fail. Creative ways cannabis companies are securing capital. Where people are investing in the cannabis industry. Episode Highlights Cannabis Industry Insights (00:01:25) Discussion of cannabis industry legacy Importance of partnerships in industry growth East Coast vs. West Coast cannabis market dynamics Mergers & Acquisitions Deep Dive (00:02:53) Challenges of cannabis M&A transactions Importance of cultural fit in partnerships Strategies for finding the right manufacturing and brand partnerships Capital and Technology in Cannabis (00:37:47) Technology as the hottest investment area in cannabis Challenges of raising capital in the industry Cross-industry interest in cannabis opportunities Cannabis Hall of Fame (00:47:33) Tony's role as chairman Plans for a 13,000 sq. ft. immersive exhibit at Planet 13 in Las Vegas Goal of destigmatizing cannabis through education and recognition About Tony Schor Tony Schor is an accomplished leader and President of Chicago-based Strategic Intro / Investor Awareness, Inc. (Founded in 1994). He is currently offering strategic advisory work and Mergers & Acquisitions opportunities representing both Buyers and Sellers of Cannabis assets in several verticals throughout the country in key markets. He is a highly valued resource to his clients.Tony also represents numerous award-winning cannabis brands, as well as continues to secure partnerships with access to brands, cannabis operational businesses and conditional licenses across the United States in both mature and limited markets. Tony Schor was asked in 2023 to become Chairman of the Cannabis Hall of Fame. Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-schor-98a4391/ Our Links Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    55 min

  7. 12/12/2024

    Chris Violas Breaks Down Blaze’s Software Infrastructure

    Software is unique: when it works as it should, no one thinks twice about it. But the moment there’s a hiccup or delay, it becomes an issue. Building software that consistently runs seamlessly, while integrating additional features to create an “all-in-one” solution that’s easy to use? That’s nearly impossible. Kudos to Chris Violas and the Blaze team for achieving just that. Leveraging his AWS background, Chris has created a software environment that boasts an impressive 99.1% customer satisfaction score. The infrastructure may not be the sexiest part of software, but it’s the foundation everything else is built on. Much like adding a second level to a house, it can either be a smooth process or a massive headache, depending on the strength of the foundation. This week, we sit down with Chris Violas to discuss: What most people don’t know about software in cannabis. Infrastructure and the connection to customer success. Acquisitions, ecosystems, and the evolution of “all-in-one” solutions. About Blaze: A complete cannabis software suite designed to streamline and scale dispensary operations. BLAZE powers every aspect of your retail business with an intuitive point-of-sale, advanced inventory management, built-in loyalty, native e-commerce, and integrated cashless payments. Our goal is to provide a cohesive ecosystem that allows dispensaries to offer an exceptional shopping experience for customers. when we talk mission critical infrastructure, like our system, like it's not okay just to have a lag. We have someone in front of the point of sale, like literally pushing buttons and wanting to check out. And so there's just no space for issues. it's nice to have a storefront, but the reality is it is like 80% more efficient on so many levels to fulfill an online order than to have someone walk around with someone in store and hold their hand. Key Topics Discussed Chris's Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:35) Started in college after breaking his wrist Launched a dispensary with his father during senior year Transitioned to technology after realizing software could solve operational challenges Blaze's Technology Infrastructure (00:08:29) Focus on mission-critical, stable infrastructure Designed with redundancy and performance in mind Separating production and reporting databases Compliance and Innovation Challenges (00:23:22) Navigating state-by-state regulatory variations Developing solutions like Metric Retail ID for product serialization Potential time and cost savings for retailers Payment and E-commerce Strategies (00:49:51) Pushing towards more efficient online ordering Improving average order value through e-commerce Exploring payment solutions in different markets Social Impact Initiative (00:42:23) Launching Blaze Cares partnership with SickKids Hospital in Canada Implementing donation roundup program for retailers Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisviolas/ https://www.blaze.me/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/goblaze/ https://x.com/blazecannabis https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1ag_Kpjm6G8IAOaK8iTcIA Our Links Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    52 min

  8. 06/12/2024

    First Mover Secrets with Colin Keeler: How Kiva’s Edibles Cover 80% of the U.S

    Kiva's products now reach 80% of the U.S. population. Think about that for a second. It’s a testament to how far the cannabis industry has come and the progress being made. But, as with anything in the cannabis space, there are complexities, caveats, and unique challenges. For instance, in some markets, consumers can access products directly through D2C channels or dispensaries. While these channels can complement each other and drive brand loyalty, the rise of D2C may also create tension with retailers, who were once the sole point of purchase. This week, we sit down with Colin Keeler to break it all down and discuss: Hemp & Cannabis Strategy Minor cannabinoids they are testing Innovations & Consumer Preferences Guest Links https://www.kivaconfections.com/ https://shopkivaconfections.com/ https://x.com/kivaconfections https://www.instagram.com/madebykiva/ Chapters: Introduction and Guest Background (00:00:00) - Bryan Fields introduces Colin Keeler from Kiva, and they discuss Colin's background. Colin shares his journey from investment banking to the cannabis industry, including a brief stint in psychedelic biotech. Kiva's Business Development Strategy (00:02:18) - Colin explains Kiva's approach to expanding into new markets, focusing on their strategy of targeting sizeable markets, working with partners, and being an early mover in different states. Product Innovation and Market Expansion (00:08:14) - The discussion centers on Kiva's product-led approach, highlighting their innovations in edibles like chocolate bars, gummies, and their focus on effects-driven products. Hemp Market Exploration (00:14:31) - Colin discusses Kiva's entry into the hemp market, explaining their cautious approach and how they're navigating the different regulatory landscapes across states. Pricing and Distribution Challenges (00:26:46) - The conversation explores the complexities of pricing in cannabis and hemp markets, including the challenges of maintaining consistent pricing across different states. Innovation and Future Outlook (00:33:09) - Colin talks about Kiva's focus on innovation, particularly around dosage, minor cannabinoids, and creating products that meet consumer wellness needs. Rapid-Fire Questions (00:42:05) - The hosts ask Colin a series of quick, fun questions about his dream smoking session, unique perspectives, and predictions for the edible market. Our Links Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. 8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast Sign up for our playbook here: 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime

    45 min
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About

The $100+ billion cannabis industry is fueled by innovative strategies and visionary leaders. Each week, we explore the journeys of CEOs from publicly traded giants, world-renowned scientists, and underground legacy growers shaping the future of this transformative market. Bryan and Kellan uncover how these pioneers built their businesses, navigated failures and found success in this rapidly growing space. Join us to explore the lessons and insights driving the cannabis industry forward.

Information

  • Creator
    Bryan Fields & Kellan Finney
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    236
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023 The Dime
  • Show Website
    The Dime

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