The Dime

Bryan Fields & Kellan Finney

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. 2D AGO

    Robotics vs Automation in Cannabis Manufacturing ft. Nohtal Partansky

    Most cannabis automation fails for a simple reason. It optimizes motion instead of understanding. Automation executes. Robotics adapts. That distinction matters in an industry where variability is unavoidable and capital is limited. This episode breaks down why feedback loops matter more than machines, why fully automated facilities are still far off, and how teams should think about constraints before investing. This week, we sit down with Nohtal Partansky to cover: Why automation breaks under variabilityAutomation vs robotics, clearly definedHow to avoid expensive missteps  Chapters 00:00 Understanding Automation in Cannabis Manufacturing 03:02 The Role of Robotics vs. Automation 05:45 Consultative Approach to Automation 08:54 Challenges in Cultivation Automation 11:59 Designing for Variability in Automation 15:01 Iterative Development and Customer Feedback 18:08 Identifying Design vs. Customer Issues 21:06 Adapting to Environmental Nuances 23:55 Conveying Value in Automation Solutions 27:09 Strategic Approaches to Automation in Supply Chain 30:10 Optimizing Pre-Roll Production Processes 33:44 Understanding Tolerance Levels in Manufacturing 36:39 Intellectual Property in the Cannabis Industry 42:26 Innovations in Cannabis Manufacturing 45:32 Challenges in Automation and Scaling 50:51 Improving Processes and Training in Cannabis Operations Summary In this conversation, Bryan Fields and Nohtal Partansky delve into the intricacies of automation and robotics within the cannabis manufacturing industry. They discuss the differences between fully automated and automated processes, the consultative approach to implementing automation, and the challenges faced in cultivation. The conversation highlights the importance of feedback loops in robotics, the iterative design process, and the need for a deep understanding of customer needs. They also touch on the significance of protecting intellectual property while fostering innovation in a rapidly evolving industry. Guest Links https://www.instagram.com/sortingroboticsinc/https://www.youtube.com/@sortingroboticshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/sortingrobotics/https://www.sortingrobotics.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nohtal/Our Links Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    51 min
  2. JAN 15

    Building Jaunty Into One of New York’s Top Cannabis Brands ft. Nicolas Guarino

    Jaunty’s rise to the top of the New York cannabis market was not an overnight success. It was built through discipline in a market uniquely designed New York’s rollout remains unforgiving. One store openings, supply and demand constraints, and continuous price compression forced every decision into the open. This week we sit down with Nicolas Guarino, Co-Founder and CEO of Jaunty, to break down what it actually takes to survive and scale in one of the most interesting cannabis markets in the country. This week we sit down with Nick to discuss: Why consistency becomes the only real moat as prices fall How New York’s rollout punished assumptions and rewarded preparedness Capital discipline, supplier trust, and avoiding overspend death spirals Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jaunty and Nicolas Guarino 03:06 The Journey into the Cannabis Industry 06:07 Challenges and Lessons Learned in CBD 09:00 Transitioning to Recreational Cannabis 11:54 Building a Brand in a Competitive Market 15:07 Navigating Market Dynamics and Growth Challenges 18:07 The Importance of Support and Resilience 20:49 Understanding Market Economics and Consumer Behavior 23:55 Future Prospects for Cannabis in New York 31:48 The Economics of Cannabis Production 36:29 The Importance of Consistency in Branding 41:11 Navigating Challenges in Cannabis Operations 46:10 Strategic Planning for Future Growth 51:56 Inventory Management and Cost Control 56:02 Preparing for Market Consolidation 58:11 Final Thoughts and Future Directions   About: Nicolas Guarino is Co-Founder and CEO of Jaunty. As a GMP-certified 100% New York company working in cannabis extraction since 2017, Jaunty has been producing and distributing the finest solventless hash, live resin, and distillate cannabis products in its mission to close the gap between flower and oil. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Hoosick Falls, NY, Jaunty is one of New York's leading companies licensed for all adult-use cannabis supply chain activities outside of retail, including cultivation, processing, manufacturing, and distribution. They produce and distribute one of New York’s best-selling cannabis vape brands, available in all of the state’s licensed dispensaries, and their product portfolio also features gummies, concentrates, and disposable vapes. Summary In this episode, Bryan Fields interviews Nicolas Guarino, co-founder and CEO of Jaunty, discussing his journey in the cannabis industry, the challenges faced in the CBD market, and the transition to recreational cannabis. They explore the importance of brand consistency, financial strategies for growth, and the dynamics of the New York cannabis market. Nicholas shares insights on consumer education, market predictions, and the future vision for Jaunty emphasizing the need for adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced industry. Guest Links https://jaunty.com/https://x.com/getjauntyhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/get-jauntyhttps://www.instagram.com/get_jaunty/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-guarino-43939b103/Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    57 min
  3. JAN 8

    How Charlotte’s Web Unlocked Medical CBD ft. Bill Morachnick

    Before CBD was discussed by a President in the Oval Office, it was a medical necessity. The Charlotte Figi story is well documented — and powerful. Not because it was emotional, but because it forced a serious medical conversation. Stories like Charlotte’s change how physicians, regulators, and institutions think about where cannabinoid therapy belongs — not as a last resort, but as a legitimate option. Charlotte’s Web was built around that reality. By recognizing that cannabis does have medicinal properties — and that patients should have access to a plant-based option when it can materially improve quality of life — the company focused on trust, standards, and medical credibility first. This week, we sit down with Bill Morachnick to break down: Why CBD earned acceptance through medical trust, not consumer marketingHow physician comfort, reimbursement pathways, and standards changed the conversationCBD in the Oval Office — and what that signals for the future of cannabis  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Charlotte's Web and Bill Morachnick 03:00 The Inspiring Story of Charlotte Figi 05:51 The Executive Order and Its Implications 08:59 The Role of Education in CBD Acceptance 12:12 Challenges and Misconceptions in the Cannabis Industry 15:03 The Future of CBD and Medical Recommendations 18:06 The Impact of Federal Reimbursement on CBD 21:08 Defloria and the Future of Cannabis Research 24:01 Navigating Regulatory Changes and Industry Challenges 27:03 The Importance of Quality and Consistency in CBD Products 30:02 The Potential for Pharmaceutical Collaborations 33:04 Looking Ahead: The Future of CBD and Cannabis 36:13 Final Thoughts and Audience Engagement Summary In this episode, Bryan Fields interviews Bill Morachnick, CEO of Charlotte's Web, discussing the company's inspiring origins, the recent executive order regarding CBD, and the future of cannabis as a medicinal product. Bill shares the powerful story of Charlotte Figi, whose life was transformed by CBD, and emphasizes the importance of education in changing perceptions about cannabis. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the industry, the potential for pharmaceutical collaborations, and the impact of federal reimbursement on CBD products. Guest Links: https://www.trycharlottesweb.com/https://www.charlottesweb.com/https://www.youtube.com/charlotteswebcbdhttps://www.instagram.com/charlotteswebcbd/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-morachnick-01318a6/https://www.linkedin.com/company/charlottesweb/Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    50 min
  4. JAN 2

    The Playbook Behind Consistent Cannabis Products at Scale ft. Ryan Crandall

    Everyone wants their product and brand to be known for consistency . Almost no one is willing to do the difficult work that makes consistency possible. This week we sit down with Ryan Crandall, Chief Commercial Officer at MariMed, to break down: Why most cannabis brands fail at scale — and how process control, not an artisanal mindset, determines who lastsHow MariMed engineers consistency across states by centralizing inputs & testing aggressively,What it actually takes to make effects-based products consistent and repeatable  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Cannabis Industry and Edibles 03:05 The Evolution of Edibles: From Early Days to Now 06:01 Ensuring Consistency Across State Lines 09:09 Quality Control and Testing in Edibles 12:01 Consumer Education and Brand Trust 15:13 MariMed Brand Portfolio and Market Strategy 18:06 Role of R&D in Product Development 21:00 Future Trends and Innovations in Edibles 24:03 Building Relationships with Budtenders and Consumers 27:58 Exploring Cannabinoids: THCV and CBG Effects 30:06 Understanding Edible Experiences and Consumer Expectations 32:00 Responsible Product Development in the Cannabis Industry 33:52 Brand Strategy and Market Penetration in New States 35:51 Innovative Products: Vibations and Consumer Convenience 38:04 Navigating the Hemp Market and Brand Expansion 39:52 Consumer Behavior: Beverages vs. Edibles in Cannabis 44:02 The Importance of Team and Company Culture Guest Links: https://www.marimedinc.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/marimed-inc/about/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-crandall-43133b12/https://x.com/MariMed_IncSummary In this episode, Bryan Fields interviews Ryan Crandall, Chief Commercial Officer at MariMed, discussing the evolution of the cannabis industry, particularly focusing on edibles. They explore the importance of consistency in product quality across different states, the role of research and development in product innovation, and the significance of branding and consumer trust. Ryan shares insights into MariMeds diverse product portfolio and their approach to quality control and testing procedures. The conversation also touches on the future of hemp and cannabinoids, as well as the beverage market's impact on consumer behavior. Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    47 min
  5. 12/19/2025

    Schedule III Changes Everything — This Is Just the Beginning

    Schedule III isn’t the finish line. It’s the starting gun. The EO said a lot — but most operators aren’t ready for what it actually means. This week we sit down with Zach Edge and Dr. Matthew Moore to break down: Why Schedule III is guidance, not rules — and why the real impact comes during rulemakingWhat GMP, CFR, and pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing will actually require from operatorsWhich parts of the supply chain face the biggest disruption as cannabis moves forwardChapters 00:00 Historic Changes in Cannabis Scheduling 03:13 The Impact of Hemp in the New Landscape 06:07 Strategic Shifts for Cannabis Operators 08:59 Navigating Regulatory Changes 11:58 The Role of Pharmacies in the New Market 15:04 Global Trade and Competition in Cannabis 17:53 Research Opportunities and Challenges 21:02 Veterans and the Future of CBD 24:02 The Supply Chain Dynamics 26:47 The Future of Hemp and CBD Products 29:56 Final Thoughts on the Cannabis Industry   Summary: In this episode, Bryan Fields discusses the recent changes in cannabis scheduling with experts Zach Edge and Matthew Moore. They explore the implications of the new executive order, particularly regarding hemp and its potential impact on the industry. The conversation delves into the strategic shifts that cannabis operators need to consider, the role of compounding pharmacies, and the opportunities for research that arise from the new regulations. They also discuss the challenges in the supply chain and the potential market dynamics as the industry evolves.   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rho-advisory/https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-edge/https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmoore09/Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    38 min
  6. 12/11/2025

    Inside SNDL’s Hidden Scale: Global Reach & Supply Chain Powerhouse ft. Tyler Robson

    SNDL is much bigger than most people realize — with global distribution, massive extraction capacity, and a diversified retail and manufacturing engine that touches nearly every part of the cannabis supply chain. This week we sit down with Tyler Robson, President of SNDL, to break down: • How SNDL became a global manufacturing and retail powerhouse • Why extraction and derivatives are their true competitive edge • How they operate across countries with completely different rules and product formats Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sundial and Tyler Robson 02:08 The Complexity of Extraction and Manufacturing 04:38 Merging Sundial and Valens: Challenges and Strategies 06:11 Sundial's Operations and Global Reach 07:39 Firefighting and Problem Solving in Leadership 09:52 Data-Driven Decision Making 12:44 Navigating Different Regulatory Environments 13:55 Core Competencies and Operational Efficiencies 15:46 Staying Focused in a Distracted Industry 16:18 Sundial's Market Position and Brand Partnerships 17:10 Strategic Focus on Texas and Florida 19:09 Resource Planning and Flexibility 20:42 Continuous Improvement in Manufacturing 22:34 Synergies Between Liquor and Cannabis 24:48 Future of Cannabis and Liquor Co-Mingling 26:30 Emerging International Markets 28:23 Potential Partnerships and Collaborations 30:08 The Size of the Global Cannabis Opportunity 31:31 Strategic Partnerships in the US 32:03 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Summary In this episode, Tyler Robson, president of Sundial, shares insights into his journey in the cannabis industry, the complexities of extraction and manufacturing, and the challenges of merging companies. He discusses Sundial's global operations, the importance of data-driven decision making, and the need for focus in a distracted industry. Tyler also highlights the potential for growth in emerging markets and the synergies between the cannabis and liquor industries, while emphasizing the significance of strategic partnerships. Guest Links: https://sndl.com/homepage/default.aspxhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-robson-a77ba4155/https://www.linkedin.com/company/sndlinc/investors@sndl.com Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    33 min
  7. 12/05/2025

    You’re Thinking About Debt Wrong: The Secret to Smart Financing ft. Adam Stettner

    Most operators think debt is dangerous. But what if the real problem is how we think about it? The opposite is true: when used correctly, debt is the single biggest growth lever in cannabis. Every major industry scales on borrowed capital — cannabis is the only one still trying to do it alone. This week we sit down with Adam Stettner to discuss: • Why debt — used properly — compounds growth • The difference between smart leverage and over-leverage • How operators can fix cash-flow bottlenecks and scale predictably Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adam Stettner and FundCanna. 03:05 Adam's Journey into the Cannabis Industry 06:12 Understanding Underwriting in Cannabis Financing 09:05 The Importance of Client-Centric Financing 11:56 Navigating Complex Variables in Cannabis Lending 14:57 Building Infrastructure for Cannabis Financing 17:48 Segmenting the Cannabis Industry for Better Insights 20:55 The Unique Challenges of Cannabis Lending 24:12 The Role of Transparency in Client Relationships 28:23 Building Partnerships for Success 29:29 Funding Options for Operational Efficiency 32:29 Understanding Technology and Business Operations 37:54 Navigating Debt and Financial Strategies 42:10 Using Debt to Accelerate Growth 52:46 Exploring Funding Opportunities Summary In this episode, Bryan Fields and Kellen Finney welcome Adam Stettner, CEO of FundCanna, to discuss the complexities of cannabis financing. Adam shares his journey from the apparel industry to cannabis, emphasizing the importance of understanding the unique challenges of underwriting in this space. He highlights the need for a client-centric approach in lending, the significance of transparency, and the innovative strategies FunCounter employs to navigate the cannabis market. Adam also discusses the importance of knowledge sharing and the metrics that indicate success in cannabis financing. In this conversation, Adam Stettner discusses the importance of building partnerships in the cannabis industry, focusing on how funding can enhance operational efficiency and support business growth. He emphasizes the need for flexible financial solutions that allow businesses to thrive without being constrained by debt. Stettner also highlights the significance of understanding technology and its impact on business operations, advocating for a metrics-based approach to financial decisions. The discussion concludes with insights on leveraging debt as a tool for growth and the importance of fostering relationships in the industry.     Guest Links: https://fundcanna.comhttps://fundcanna.com/about/adam-stettner/https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamstettnerhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/fundcanna/About Adam Stettner: Adam has 30 years of business, strategy and leadership experience in both Private and Public Companies. In 2021, Adam believed the timing and opportunity was right for him to bring his passion for business, innovative financing and entrepreneurial spirit to the Cannabis sector by creating funding products for all areas of this early stage, growth industry by founding FundCanna. FundCanna provides short term funding to all areas of the sector; cultivators, manufacturers, vendors, suppliers, distributors and retailers. In just its first year, FundCanna has underwritten roughly 3000 files and funded over 500 unique files bringing much needed liquidity and financing solutions to the legal Cannabis industry. Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    54 min
  8. 11/20/2025

    How LEVEL Delivers Effects-Based Cannabis Tablets ft. Chris Emerson

    Everyone in cannabis talks about effects-based products — almost no one can deliver them consistently. Repeatable experiences require precision and formulation discipline that looks a lot more like pharma than cannabis. And here’s why: most operators don’t treat in-house analytics as essential. But that’s the mistake. Process control isn’t optional — it’s the foundation for delivering the same experience every single time. This week we sit down with Chris Emerson, Founder of LEVEL, to break down: • How true effects-based products are actually built • The analytics and standardization required for repeatability • Why most teams can’t achieve consistency — and what it takes to fix it   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chris Emerson and Level 03:07 The Journey into Cannabis and Product Development 06:02 Challenges in Consistency and Formulation 08:48 Navigating the Market and Consumer Education 12:05 The Role of Cannabinoids and Future Innovations 14:56 Expanding Beyond California: Challenges and Strategies 27:32 The Importance of Consistency in Product Quality 29:51 Navigating the Medical vs Recreational Cannabis Landscape 33:03 Advanced Analytics in Cannabis Production 36:02 Innovations in Product Formulation and Consumer Experience 39:56 Strategic Approaches to Hemp and Cannabinoid Research 45:00 Exploring the Future of Cannabinoids and Consumer Education   Summary In this conversation, Chris Emerson, founder of Level, shares his journey from academia to the cannabis industry, discussing the challenges and innovations in product development. He emphasizes the importance of effects-based formulations, consistency in product quality, and the need for consumer education in a rapidly evolving market. The discussion also touches on the future of cannabinoid products and the strategies for expanding into new markets while maintaining quality and consistency. In this conversation, Chris Emerson discusses the complexities of cannabis production, emphasizing the importance of consistency and advanced analytics in ensuring product quality. He explores the challenges faced by the medical cannabis market as it competes with recreational use, and shares insights on the evolving landscape of cannabinoid research, particularly focusing on the Varin class and acidic cannabinoids. The discussion also touches on strategic approaches to hemp and the significance of consumer education in navigating the cannabis industry. Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-emerson-ph-d-464b245a/https://www.instagram.com/level.experiencehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/levelexperience/https://levelexperience.com/Our Links: Bryan Fields on Twitter Kellan Finney on Twitter The Dime on Twitter Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights. At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry. The Dime is a top 5% most shared  global podcast The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast  The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished. 🎥 YouTube:  The Dime 📸 Instagram:  The Dime https://www.newton-insights.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    48 min
4.9
out of 5
109 Ratings

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.

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