Blunt Business Cannabis Radio

We speak with Deborah Saneman, the visionary CEO of Wurk. She explores the dynamic rebranding journey of Wurk and the transformative evolution of the cannabis industry over the past decade. Deborah shares her expertise on how data-driven decisions are revolutionizing workforce management and employee benefits in this burgeoning sector.
We delve into the challenges and opportunities within the cannabis industry, discussing the potential impact of federal legalization, the importance of robust employee benefits, and the strategies to overcome high turnover rates. Deborah also sheds light on the role of AI in the recruitment process and the need for effective self-presentation in the digital age.
Furthermore, we examine the implications of cannabis rescheduling on business investments and compliance, as well as the current trends in the job market. Deborah offers her perspective on the salary discrepancies within the industry and the factors that attract top talent to the cannabis space.


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Paul Weaver, Head of Cannabis at Boston Beer Company, takes us through the company's bold venture into the cannabis market with their THC-infused iced tea product, Teapot. Discover how Boston Beer Company's expertise in crafting high-quality teas led to the creation of this refreshing, non-carbonated, ready-to-drink cannabis beverage, available in various blends for different times of the day.
In our conversation, Paul shares the strategic growth plans for Teapot, including expanding into new flavors and markets across Canada. We explore the shifting consumer habits towards dispensaries and the potential for converting these into convenience stores to better showcase a variety of cannabis products. Paul and Brasco highlight the impressive performance of cannabis beverages in markets like Minnesota and Arizona, where they have even outsold traditional alcoholic beverages.
We also delve into the potential of consumption lounges as standalone businesses, discussing the opportunities and challenges of incorporating cannabis-based drinks into the traditional restaurant model. Paul provides insights on the importance of clear regulations and responsible entrepreneurship in creating a novel sensory experience for consumers.
Paul and Brasco discuss the significance of a recent survey showing daily cannabis use surpassing daily alcohol use in the US for the first time. They emphasize the need for a balanced product portfolio and the importance of moderation and responsible use in this changing landscape.
The episode also touches on the therapeutic potential of cannabis, the ongoing rescheduling plan, and the need for objective clinical research to address skepticism and explore long-term health impacts. Paul highlights Teapot’s efforts to support the community, including a partnership with Pardons Canada to help individuals remove cannabis convictions from their records.


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We welcome Jay Virdi, Chief Sales Officer for Specialty Practices at HUB International, to discuss the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry and the complex world of cannabis insurance.  
Jay discusses the intricacies of interstate commerce limitations and the potential scenarios if neighboring states collaborate on cannabis trade before full federal legalization. They delve into the recent DEA rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III, its impact on the industry, and the possible effects on insurance premiums and coverage.
The conversation also covers the substantial growth of HUB International's cannabis practice group, now serving over 1,000 clients with a dedicated team of more than 300 members. Jay shares insights into alternative risk financing strategies, such as parametric derivatives and captives, and the proprietary HUB Cannabis Benefits Captive designed to cover employees.
Additionally, we discuss the increasing number of insurance carriers entering the cannabis market and the ongoing challenges cannabis businesses face in securing comprehensive coverage. They highlight the importance of specialized knowledge in underwriting and risk management to address the unique needs of cannabis-related businesses.
Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on how HUB International leverages its expertise in emerging markets, including psychedelics and cryptocurrencies, to support the cannabis industry. Jay also emphasizes the company's commitment to human-centric programs and the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance service delivery.


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We dive deep into the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry from a PR perspective with Jordan Isenstadt, SVP, Marino PR / Founder of Marino Cannabis Practice. In this episode, we explore the synergy between strategic PR efforts and the dynamic changes in the cannabis sector, particularly in light of the recent DEA rescheduling of cannabis.
Jordan shares how he prepares clients to comment on pivotal industry moments like rescheduling reform and safe banking, which play a crucial role in destigmatizing and normalizing cannabis. He also discusses the tailored media strategies they employ, balancing mainstream and trade outlets, and the unique challenges faced by different types of cannabis businesses.
From matching clients with the right media platforms to managing the shifting dynamics of news coverage, Jordan and our host Brasco navigate the complexities of promoting the cannabis industry. They touch on the importance of local media, addressing state-specific trends, and the careful messaging needed to avoid misrepresentation.
Whether you’re a cannabis industry insider or just curious about the interplay between media and marijuana, this episode offers valuable insights into the strategic communications that shape public perception and policy. Tune in to learn how effective PR can drive acceptance and growth in this rapidly changing field.


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

More of Blunt Business, recorded live from the floor of Benzinga Miami 2024. We hear from three key figures in the cannabis investment space:
Matt Hawkins, Managing Partner at Entourage Effect Capital, a leading private equity firm focused on the cannabis industry. Matt shares his expert perspective on the current investment landscape, discussing emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities for investors in the cannabis space.
Rick Cytrynbaum, Founder and CEO of VIST LABS, a pioneering cannabis product development company. Rick delves into the world of cannabis innovation, showcasing VIST LABS' groundbreaking technologies and products that are shaping the future of the industry.
Joining Rick is Christian Hegeseth, Chief Science Officer at VIST LABS, a renowned expert in cannabis science and formulation. Christian provides a deep dive into the science behind VIST LABS' products, explaining how their innovative approach is revolutionizing the way cannabis is consumed and experienced.
We take a comprehensive look at the intersection of cannabis and investment, exploring the factors that drive investment decisions, the importance of scientific innovation, and the potential for growth in this dynamic industry.


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Blunt Business is on location at Benzinga Miami 2024. In this episode, we sit down with Kyle Sherman, CEO of Flowhub, and Jeffrey Trappe from Planet 13 for exclusive conversations about the future of the cannabis industry.
Kyle Sherman shares his insights on the evolving landscape of cannabis technology, discussing how Flowhub is empowering dispensaries to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive sales. Jeffrey Trappe dives into the world of cannabis retail, revealing the strategies behind Planet 13's success as one of the largest and most iconic dispensaries in the world, and more specifically their ongoing expansion in Florida.


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy