Skip to main content
The Cannabis Diversity Report with Tahir Johnson

The Cannabis Diversity Report with Tahir Johnson

By Tahir Johnson

Hosted by Tahir Johnson, The Cannabis Diversity Report dives deep into the cannabis industry. Join us as we spotlight pioneering minorities, navigating their paths, sharing their challenges, and celebrating their triumphs. Each episode offers invaluable insights from industry leaders, ensuring we understand the industry’s diverse landscape. Tune in for engaging conversations that inspire, educate, and empower. Tune into The Cannabis Diversity Report today – where unique narratives shape the future of cannabis.
Available on
Google Podcasts Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

#001 Kevin Ford Jr - Uplift Maryland

The Cannabis Diversity Report with Tahir JohnsonJul 11, 2020

00:00
13:58
Episode 67: "GreenSTOP's Retail Revolution: The Future of Cannabis in a 31-inch Kiosk
Mar 22, 202345:14
Episide 66: Bridging Education & Cannabis: The Cleveland School School of Cannabis

Episide 66: Bridging Education & Cannabis: The Cleveland School School of Cannabis

"In this insightful episode of The Cannabis Diversity Podcast, your host, Tahir Johnson, delves deep into the world of cannabis education with a special focus on The Cleveland School of Cannabis (CSC). Join us as we unveil the only state-approved career school for cannabis education east of Colorado.


Through strategic partnerships and affiliations across all major sectors of the cannabis industry, the CSC has established itself as a leading force in creating well-rounded cannabis professionals. When employers hire CSC alumni, they're not just hiring employees; they're acquiring ambassadors who represent their companies with dignity and professionalism.


Together, we'll explore how CSC sets new standards and infuses the industry with a level of prestige yet to be seen. We'll look at how they're tirelessly working towards shaping leaders of tomorrow, equipping them with the necessary skills to seize every opportunity that this budding industry presents.


Dive into this riveting conversation and find out more about how CSC is contributing to the evolving landscape of cannabis education. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of cannabis and how education plays a pivotal role in its growth and acceptance.


To learn more about The Cleveland School of Cannabis, don't forget to visit
www.csceducation.com/ after the episode. Join us in this eye-opening journey into the educational frontiers of cannabis."


Get ready for an enlightening chat on The Cannabis Diversity Podcast. Don't miss it!
Mar 22, 202336:44
#065 Black Cannabis Week - Cherron Perry-Thomas
Mar 16, 202321:35
#064 Magic Hour Cannabis - Will Perry
Sep 21, 202248:52
Episode 63: Fighting Injustice Through Law and Art - A Conversation with Richeda Ashmeade 

Episode 63: Fighting Injustice Through Law and Art - A Conversation with Richeda Ashmeade 

In this compelling episode of The Cannabis Diversity Report Podcast, host Tahir Johnson sits down with dynamic guest Richeda Ashmeade. A Last Prisoner Project constituent, Richeda is a law student, poet, and activist, now into her second year of law school in Atlanta, Georgia. Her life and work are fueled by the ambition to challenge and overturn the systemic injustice inherent in the cannabis industry.


Beyond her law studies, Richeda has carved out a niche for herself in the world of spoken word poetry. A member of the esteemed San Diego Poetry Slam Team, she recently shared the stage with Ghostface Killah in NYC, where she used her poetic platform to highlight the issues surrounding cannabis legislation and its punitive measures.


This episode explores the trajectory of Richeda's journey, from her poetry stages to law school and her passionate advocacy for her father - unfairly sentenced to 22 years for a cannabis-related offense. Richeda's story is a poignant testament to the broader systemic problems of cannabis legislation and the dire need for reform.


Tahir and Richeda also delve into the impactful work of the Last Prisoner Project, an organization dedicated to redressing the harms of cannabis prohibition. For listeners who want to know more about their incredible efforts, you can visit
lastprisonerproject.org.


Tune in to hear an inspirational and thought-provoking conversation that underlines the connection between cannabis, diversity, art, and law, and how one woman uses this intersection to fight for justice. Don't miss this unforgettable episode of The Cannabis Diversity Report Podcast.
Aug 09, 202242:03
#062 Lawrence Hudson - Cronos Group

#062 Lawrence Hudson - Cronos Group

Lawrence Hudson Jr is a Government Affairs Associate with Cronos Group, a globally diversified and vertically integrated cannabis company with a presence across four continents. Lawrence received his JD from Howard University School of Law. He also holds a Master's Degree in Television, Radio and Film from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and BS in Criminal Justice from with a Minor in Public Relations from St. John's University. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc and hails from Queens New York. To learn more about Cronos Group visit www.thecronosgroup.com

Apr 25, 202232:39
Episode 61: Crafting Cannabis Policy: Equity, Justice, and the Path Forward with Toi Hutchinson

Episode 61: Crafting Cannabis Policy: Equity, Justice, and the Path Forward with Toi Hutchinson

Join us for Episode 61 of the Cannabis Diversity Report with host Tahir Johnson as he sits down with a titan of cannabis policy reform - Toi Hutchinson, the President and CEO of The Marijuana Policy Project. A former Illinois Senator and co-sponsor of the groundbreaking Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (CRTA), Toi has dedicated her career to promoting equity in the burgeoning cannabis industry. As colleagues at the Marijuana Policy Project, Tahir and Toi share a deep commitment to social justice and inclusion.


In this engaging conversation, Toi sheds light on the intricacies of cannabis legislation, her journey from the Illinois Senate to the Marijuana Policy Project, and the importance of equitable cannabis policy reform. You'll hear firsthand about Toi's tireless work to redress the impacts of the war on drugs on marginalized communities, her strategies for modernizing cannabis regulation, and her vision for a more inclusive future for the cannabis industry.


Whether you're a cannabis enthusiast, an industry insider, or simply interested in the fight for equity and justice in policymaking, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. Dive in to discover how Toi Hutchinson and the Marijuana Policy Project are reshaping the landscape of cannabis policy and promoting a more inclusive and equitable industry. Don't miss this deep dive into the fight for fair, just, and inclusive cannabis policies.
Mar 28, 202250:36
#060 Terrell Taylor - The MJ Connect/ Medleaf
Mar 25, 202221:38
Episode 59: Pioneering Cannabis Real Estate: Kristin Jordan's Journey and Vision

Episode 59: Pioneering Cannabis Real Estate: Kristin Jordan's Journey and Vision

In this groundbreaking 59th episode of The Cannabis Diversity Report, your host Tahir Johnson sits down with one of the leading figures in cannabis real estate, Kristin Jordan, Founder and CEO of Park Jordan. A seasoned attorney, drug policy activist, and real estate expert, Kristin has been instrumental in shaping the commercial cannabis landscape in America.

After her remarkable tenure at Acreage Holdings, where she spearheaded the selection of real estate sites for cultivation, processing, and dispensaries, Kristin founded Park Jordan, a commercial real estate brokerage and advisory services firm dedicated solely to the cannabis industry.

We'll dive deep into Kristin's inspiring journey, from her early days managing real estate portfolios for giants like Kaplan, Inc., Morgan Stanley, and SoulCycle, to her transition into the cannabis sector, a move that marked a new chapter in her already impressive career.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Kristin is a tireless advocate for social equity and economic justice in the cannabis sector. As the founder of Mannada and co-founder of the Cannabis Cultural Association, she continually seeks to push boundaries, creating platforms for education, networking, and advocacy.

Get an insider's perspective on the intersection of real estate and cannabis regulations, and discover what it takes to be recognized as one of "Fifteen Powerful and Innovative Women in Cannabis Right Now" by Forbes. Plus, learn more about the role that organizations like the Asian Cannabis Roundtable and the Minority Cannabis Business Association play in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the cannabis sector.

Don't miss this riveting conversation with one of the trailblazers in the cannabis industry - tune in now!
Dec 29, 202121:33
#058 420NJEvents - Brendon Robinson and Stanley Okoro

#058 420NJEvents - Brendon Robinson and Stanley Okoro

420NJEvents is Black Owned Cannabis Lifestyle Brand focused on advocating for minorities that have been disproportionately impacted by the "War on Drugs." The company is Co-Founded by CEO Stanley Okoro and VP, Brendon Robinson. They've held Expungement Clinics, Cannabis Career Workshops, and Educational Seminars and look to be the bridge between the large corporations and the disenfranchised neighborhoods they wish to operate.
Nov 27, 202113:54
#057 Ebony Andersen - Josephine and Billie's

#057 Ebony Andersen - Josephine and Billie's

Ebony Andersen has over 15 years of experience as a land-use professional. She routinely works with special interest groups and legislative lobbyists on environmentally controversial or politically sensitive projects, including medicinal and adult-use cannabis programs in the Los Angeles region. Andersen has managed several dozen cannabis projects, including cultivation sites, extensive manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, retail locations in California, and consulted on projects in Washington, Oklahoma, and Nevada. She is known for helping operators convert their traditional or start-up cannabis businesses into fully functional, compliant operations. Her knowledge, expertise, and work ethic have dubbed her the "Olive Pope" of planning because she can execute complicated and convoluted projects when others cannot.  Andersen enjoys entrepreneurship. It's natural to see her working on policy projects, managing construction, functioning as an executive, securing cannabis licenses, and chairing a school board committee--all in one day! She credits her success to a non-traditional home life where her husband is a stay-at-home-dad who doubles as an office assistant. As she puts it, "He manages my life, while I manage everyone else's." Each day, Andersen lives the #BossLife she used to dream of, demonstrating that women indeed can have it all. When she's not working, she enjoys solving her son's riddles and taking family trips to Disneyland.  To learn more about Josephine & Billie's visit @josephineandbillies https://www.josephineandbillies.com/
Nov 22, 202146:47
#056 Cleveland School of Cannabis - Tyrone Greene and Kevin Russell
Nov 16, 202136:46
#055 Tiyahnn Bryant - Roll Up Life
Nov 15, 202140:40
#054 Kaliko Castille - Minority Cannabis Industry Association
Nov 15, 202140:24
#053 Brittany Williams - PharmaCann

#053 Brittany Williams - PharmaCann

Brittany Williams joined PharmaCann in April 2021 as the vice president of social equity, diversity & inclusion where she is leading the company’s efforts to create long-term, meaningful and systemic changes and foster fairness, justice and equality in the cannabis industry.  Prior to PharmCann, Brittany was the regional director of social equity and educational development (SEED) at Cresco Labs where she was instrumental in creating social equity strategy and programming. As the program director at Justice Grown, she established partnerships with Chicago-based nonprofits, community organizations and colleges to advance social and restorative justice and launch equity-based initiatives, most notably, Justice by Design, a paid employment residency program. Brittany also has held roles in web design, filmmaking and photography.  She has a master’s degree in nonprofit management from DePaul University and a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from the University of Missouri-Columbia

Nov 04, 202136:28
#052 Judge Shelli Hayes - Bridge City Collective

#052 Judge Shelli Hayes - Bridge City Collective

Judge Shelli Hayes (ret.), Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, brings 5+ years of regulated cannabis industry experience to Bridge City Collective. She has been an active participant in the development and growth of the Illinois cannabis industry since the inception of the Illinois Medical Cannabis Pilot Program. In 2017 Judge Hayes moved to Nevada and co-founded a licensed Cannabis Processing facility, where she serves as Chief Operating Officer, Chief Legal Officer, & Corporate Secretary. In addition, she has served as the Chief Compliance Officer for a Hemp Company in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Judge Hayes has extensive experience working various aspects of operational cannabis regulatory compliance, such as seed to sale, state tracking systems, security, record keeping, general construction, water rights, transportation, disposal and generally the cultivation, production and dispensing of legal hemp and cannabis. Additionally, she has worked with numerous cannabis startups from the ground floor, and with investors seeking to enter the industry through the creation of compliance programs and applications for licensure. She also currently serves as a liaison to cannabis business owners and uninitiated investors seeking to enter the industry. Her previous cannabis work, especially founding and operating a successful cannabis processing establishment, has given her an understanding of the products and services our company will produce, and she is excited to put her extensive expertise to use in her home state of Illinois.

Judge Hayes also served as a Judge of the Circuit Court of a County in Illinois for 18 years. While on the bench, she acquired courtroom legal experience in business, marketing and management. Her last assignment was presiding over a high-volume Civil Jury Trial Courtroom. As a trial lawyer with a law firm in Chicago, IL, her legal practice specialized in real estate matters, condemnation, zoning, litigation and municipal law. Judge Hayes left private practice to serve as the Director of Real Estate Management, County and as Assistant Chief Attorney, County Forest Preserve.

Judge Hayes' background led to her appointment to the Founding Board of Directors of a Minority Business Association and the Founding Board of Directors of the National Cannabis Legal Association in 2015. She is a Founder of the first annual Minority Business Association Opportunity Summit 2018, Daniels College of Business at University of Denver, which encouraged minority participation and policy reforms in the cannabis industry. Most recently, she became a Co-Founding Board Member of Cannabis Project, an initiative to increase success outcomes for cannabis businesses owned by people of color and headquartered in Portland Oregon. This was launched after the people of Portland voted to invest cannabis tax dollars into communities impacted by the war on drugs. Judge Hayes is admitted to the New York Bar and the Illinois Bar. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York and her Juris Doctorate Degree from Indiana University Maurer School of Law, Bloomington, Indiana. A social justice warrior, with a long history of commitment and change in Illinois, she will be a driving force in every decision our company makes.

To learn more about Bridge City Collective visit www.bridgecitycollective.com

Nov 03, 202140:26
#051 Chirali Patel - Blaze Responsibly

#051 Chirali Patel - Blaze Responsibly

Recognized on the InsiderNJ 2021 “Insider 100: Cannabis Power List” as an influential voice in the cannabis debate, Chirali started her journey in the cannabis industry through self-education and organic networking in legal states such as Colorado as early as 2016. Chirali went on to gain experience in facilitating vertical applications for medical cannabis licenses in New Jersey and in advising individuals on ancillary market opportunities. She is also an advocate in the community and was the South Asian liaison for NJ CAN 2020, the successful “vote yes” campaign led by the ACLU-NJ to legalize adult-use. Chirali is currently an attorney in the Cannabis & Hemp Law and Litigation practices at one of the top law firms in New Jersey, Pashman Stein Walder Hayden, P.C.    Chirali combined her business and legal experience and created Blaze Responsibly™️, a brand that aims to educate and empower the new generation of cannabis leaders. Chirali is also a Managing Partner and the Chief Compliance Officer for Digital Venture Partners, a majority black-owned cannabis portfolio company. She is an Executive Member for the New Jersey State Bar Association Cannabis Committee and is Co-Chair of the Social Justice and Equity Subcommittee. She is also a member of several industry organizations and speaks frequently on the topic in her professional and personal capacity.    Chirali devoted the early years of her career to serving the public, previously working for the County of Bergen as assistant county counsel, for the City of Hoboken as assistant corporation counsel and assistant prosecutor, and for the County of Passaic as a legal associate. Her prior litigation experience at Carella Byrne Cecchi Brody & Agnello, P.C. is on complex commercial litigation, including business torts and civil RICO claims against Fortune 500 companies, and complex class actions and mass tort litigation against pharmaceutical drug companies and automobile manufacturers. Chirali was also appointed as Liaison Counsel in the multidistrict litigation In re Elmiron as part of one of the most arguably diverse plaintiff's steering committees.   Chirali received her Bachelor’s in Business Management from Rutgers University Business School in New Jersey and her J.D. from Yeshiva University, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York.  To learn more about Blaze Responsibly visit blazeresponsibly.org
Sep 28, 202135:04
#50 Corvain Cooper, Anthony Alegrete, and Loriel Alegrete - 40 Tons Brand
Sep 28, 202135:59
#049 Jungle Cae - Cae Jones
Sep 13, 202122:02
# 048 Antuanette Gomez - Pleasure Peaks

# 048 Antuanette Gomez - Pleasure Peaks

Antuanette is an International Speaker and Cannabis Business Maven. She is the Founder + CEO of Pleasure Peaks, a Cannabinoid Sexual Health Company. She is also the Director of Canada at M4MM . And mentors many startups in the emerging cannabis industry globally within the legal framework through her business accelerator, the Green Rush Program. Her passion and love for uplifting entrepreneurs shows in her everyday life. For the past 6 years, she has been helping people start, buy, and sell brands/companies in the cannabis industry. With an extensive background in executive work and medical cannabis education, she has a thorough understanding of the cannabis market and knows what it takes to navigate the legal framework. She has been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 Scholar, made it to the Top 50 Toronto Life’s Most Influential list, and has been seen on Breakfast Television, FLARE, Forbes, VICE, Elle Magazine, Cannabis Radio and so much more. Join the Green Rush Mentorship Program with Antuanette Gomez herself! Learn how to cash in on the green rush with her cannabis playbook. You’ll learn how to effectively create a niche cannabis product line with access to manufacturers at your fingertips. This program is for any entrepreneur, medical professional or cannabis enthusiast wanting to get involved in the cannabis industry. Find her at www.AntuanetteGomez.com, www.PleasurePeaks.com, on FaceBook, and on Twitter @PleasurePeaks, or Instagram @Pleasure_Peaks, and @Antuanetteg @ItsAtuanette
Sep 13, 202138:49
#047 Michael Malcolm - WeedTravelFood

#047 Michael Malcolm - WeedTravelFood

Michael Malcolm was born and raised on the south side of Chicago! ⁣⁣⁣

🏡 A real estate investor, a Realtor w/ @atproperties since 2012 and i’ve been working in real estate in one shape or another since he graduated high school in 2000.⁣⁣⁣

🌳✈️🍴In addition to real estate, he's always been passionate about cannabis, travel and food. so i took my passions and founded the @weedtravelfood brand, through which he operates his media production company “WTF Media LLC” and his cannabis industry consulting firm “WTF Consulting LLC”. ⁣⁣⁣

📽 With WTF Media, Mike creates content for cannabis, travel and food industry clients. Their content generates sales and engagement for clients and has been featured in major media outlets like the Chicago Sun-Times, FOX News and ABC News. ⁣⁣⁣

📈 As a cannabis industry consultant with WTF Consulting, Mike works with cannabis companies and brands across the country on everything from product development to content creation to community engagement and outreach.⁣⁣⁣

🏪🤞🏿Mike is also a social equity applicant and currently has 10 dispensary license applications under review by the state of Illinois.⁣⁣⁣

💼 An equity partner of the @cronjaculture cannabis brand his partners have distribution, manufacturing and delivery licenses based out of Los Angeles, California and currently have ancillary products for sale online and in LA and Chicago dispensaries.

👨🏾‍🏫 In March 2021, Malcolm created a syllabus and course about Cannabis Marketing and Branding for the City of Chicago College, Olive Harvey College and currently serves as an adjunct faculty member there, teaMichael Malcolm was born and raised on the south side of Chicago! ⁣⁣⁣

🏡 A real estate investor, a Realtor w/ @atproperties since 2012 and i’ve been working in real estate in one shape or another since he graduated high school in 2000.⁣⁣⁣

🌳✈️🍴In addition to real estate, he's always been passionate about cannabis, travel and food. so i took my passions and founded the @weedtravelfood brand, through which he operates his media production company “WTF Media LLC” and his cannabis industry consulting firm “WTF Consulting LLC”. ⁣⁣⁣

📽 With WTF Media, Mike creates content for cannabis, travel and food industry clients. Their content generates sales and engagement for clients and has been featured in major media outlets like the Chicago Sun-Times, FOX News and ABC News. ⁣⁣⁣

📈 As a cannabis industry consultant with WTF Consulting, Mike works with cannabis companies and brands across the country on everything from product development to content creation to community engagement and outreach.⁣⁣⁣

🏪🤞🏿Mike is also a social equity applicant and currently has 10 dispensary license applications under review by the state of Illinois.⁣⁣⁣

💼 An equity partner of the @cronjaculture cannabis brand his partners have distribution, manufacturing and delivery licenses based out of Los Angeles, California and currently have ancillary products for sale online and in LA and Chicago dispensaries.

👨🏾‍🏫 In March 2021, Malcolm created a syllabus and course about Cannabis Marketing and Branding for the City of Chicago College, Olive Harvey College and currently serves as an adjunct faculty member there, teaching courses weekly and sits on the City of Chicago College's Cannabis Advisory Council.⁣⁣⁣

🌱✊🏿 Malcolm is an advocate for the plant and a proud member of Chicago NORML, Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition, and National Cannabis Industry Association. ⁣⁣⁣

⁣⁣⁣Teaching courses weekly and sits on the City of Chicago College's Cannabis Advisory Council.⁣⁣⁣

🌱✊🏿 Malcolm is an advocate for the plant and a proud member of Chicago NORML, Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition, and National Cannabis Industry Association. To learn more about WeedTravelFood visit
weedtravelfood.com
Aug 14, 202101:01:43
#046 Amber Norwood - Weed The People Law

#046 Amber Norwood - Weed The People Law

After graduating from law school and spending time working for the United States Attorney’s Office in Miami, Florida, upon her return to California Amber has been actively involved in the commercial cannabis industry. Currently, Amber Norwood is the co-founder of Weed the People Law (www.weedthepeoplelaw.com) which helps both cannabis entrepreneurs and industry veterans win licenses, remain in compliance on both the local and state level, optimize facility design, standardize operations, and maximize business development. Ms. Norwood has over four years’ experience navigating medical and recreational marijuana regulations in California, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, New Jersey, and Maryland.  Her licensing application expertise is unmatched in the industry – having won over 62 licenses for clients, she specializes in writing and implementing Standard Operating Procedures across all aspects of the industry. Her implementational oversight, coupled with her legal training and personal drive, has positioned her to become a vital addition to both established brands and newbies wanting to enter the industry.  Amber has worked with some of the leading cannabis brand cultivators, manufacturers, distributors, and retail dispensaries in the industry. Most recently she was brought onboard as the Chief Compliance Officer for Element 7, LLC as it continues to expand its cannabis footprint across the state of California with licenses that cover seed to sale: Cultivation, Manufacturing, Distribution, Retail and Delivery. Element 7 has recently merged with Mercer Park Brand in a deal worth $567 million (https://www.globenewswire.com/newsrel...) .     Located in the heart of the “Green Rush” Los Angeles, California she has a pulse on what is happening in the industry before it makes headlines. Amber is currently working on a female-focused cannabis line called PAIISE (www.pausebrands.com) which will cater to the canna-curious female market, and supply a range of mini pre-rolls, pens, tinctures, and edibles to consumers.  Amber is clearing the way  for more women to enter the industry which is primarily male dominated. She is a member of Minorities in Cannabis Business Association, Women Grow, NORML, NDICA, Los Angeles Young Professionals Urban League and the Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce.  Amber resides in Pasadena with her six-year-old daughter, Ayris. In her free-time Amber  volunteers with Girls Inc., the Impact Project, and Union Station Homeless Services. She is a graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana (B.A. Political Science), and Southern University Law Center (J.D.). To learn more about Weed The People Law visit https://weedthepeoplelaw.com/

Aug 06, 202138:55
#045 Janessa Bailey - Leafly
Aug 06, 202133:04
#044 Shaleen Title - The Parabola Center

#044 Shaleen Title - The Parabola Center

Shaleen Title is an Indian-American attorney and longtime drug policy activist. She currently serves as Distinguished Cannabis Policy Practitioner in Residence at The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law’s Drug Enforcement and Policy Center and as vice-chair of the Cannabis Regulators of Color Coalition. She is a frequent keynote speaker and consultant on cannabis policy and has testified in front of governmental bodies around the world about restorative justice in marijuana laws. As CEO of the crowdfunded policy project Parabola Center, she co-authored 2021 model federal amendments focusing on people rather than corporate profits.

In 2017, she was appointed by the Massachusetts governor, attorney general, and treasurer to serve as one of five inaugural commissioners of the Cannabis Control Commission, the agency tasked with regulating legal and medical marijuana in the commonwealth. Her three-year term was extended to December 31, 2020. Described as “the people’s weed watchdog” in Boston Magazine’s 2019 Power List, she was widely recognized during her term for her focus on racial justice and her efforts to make the cannabis industry more fair and inclusive.

Previously, in her role as a founding board member of the Minority Cannabis Business Association, she led the creation of the MCBA Model Bill, the first state-level model bill created to give states guidance to implement a process of reinvestment and reconciliation. She also served as a trustee for Students for Sensible Drug Policy and a board member of the National Lawyers Guild. She was a co-founder of THC Staffing, the first recruiting firm focused on inclusion in the cannabis industry, and was part of the multistate tax group at Deloitte Tax.

Shaleen’s interviews have been featured in outlets including PBS NewsHour, Politico, Rolling Stone, Newsweek, The Guardian, Vice News, and many NPR stations, and she has written guest op-eds for The Boston Globe, Philadelphia Inquirer, Commonwealth Magazine, Marijuana Moment, and Boston Business Journal. She is an alumna of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, a public magnet school with an emphasis on developing problem solvers, and she holds a business degree, law degree, and graduate degree in accounting from the University of Illinois. To learn more about The Parabola Center visit
theparabolacenter.com
Jul 24, 202131:37
#043 Otha Smith - Tetragram
Jul 12, 202127:25
#042 Niambe McIntosh - Peter Tosh Foundation

#042 Niambe McIntosh - Peter Tosh Foundation

Niambe Mcintosh is the last child of the revolutionary musician and activist Peter Tosh. Despite being the youngest of nine, Niambe is an executive of her father’s estate and brand. In addition, she puts heavy emphasis on a health and wellness lifestyle while advocating for freedom, justice, and equity.

Born in Jamaica and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Niambe is a frequent traveler between the two distinctly different worlds. As a precocious child and young adult, she recognized society’s disparities in lifestyle, infrastructure, income, and opportunities; thus, her passion for helping those who are marginalized ignited.

McIntosh first graduated the Wentworth Institution of Technology with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, then later obtained her Master’s degree in Education. Niambe spent her early twenties as an engineer, but her passion for children influenced her to change her career.

After teaching in the Boston Public School system for a decade, in February of 2017, Niambe’s career as a teacher was abruptly interrupted by a serious and unfortunate event. While incarcerated for cannabis possession, Jawara McIntosh (Tosh1), a musician, cannabis activist, and son of Peter Tosh, was brutally attacked in jail. Since then, on behalf of the Tosh Family, Niambe launched Justice for Jawara, a campaign geared towards breaking the stigma around cannabis and supporting families directly affected by its prohibition.

In 2016, the Tosh family opened the Peter Tosh Museum, a landmark edifice located in Kingston, Jamaica. The museum exhibits and codifies the physical and intellectual properties of its namesake, Peter Tosh. In 2017, Niambe and her family founded the Peter Tosh Foundation. The philanthropic intent of the Peter Tosh Foundation is to uphold her father’s legacy through education, empowerment, and advocacy. Niambe is a woman who is serious about transforming minds and furthering equal rights and justice. She wishes to use the foundation in order to serve as a mechanism for disseminating the ideals of freedom, justice and equity to the international platform.

Niambe McIntosh urges you to visit the Peter Tosh Museum in Kingston, Ja, and delve into the life and legacy of Peter Tosh. Furthermore, Niambe is available for speaking engagements, consulting and other forms of outreach.
May 30, 202136:45
# 041 Martine Francis Pierre - Cannalution
May 24, 202136:17
#040 C Cimone Casson - Cannas Capital

#040 C Cimone Casson - Cannas Capital

Cimone Casson is a cannabis insurance agent and the owner of Cannas Capital an insurance company that focuses on the protection needs of cannabis and crafting brewing businesses. Cannas Capital produces tailor-made insurance portfolios for legal marijuana businesses and craft brewers in order for them to operate with the same peace of mind as other companies despite their unique risk. Insurance helps solidify the businesses structure and mitigate risk. With Cannas Capital, companies can find broad insurance protection including employee benefits, delivery fleets, and crop and inventory. Cimone attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan completing studies in art; she used her love for beauty and fashion to establish her first business in Chicago. Cimone opened a make-up studio and spa that was featured in the Chicago Sun Times and Red Eye Chicago. She gradually climbed the ladder of small business success and her clientele and revenue grew. It came to an abrupt halt in 2009 with the great recession, which forced her to close the business. She learned that the only plausible way to save her business would have been to use bank loans, but due to her unfamiliarity with the banking system and credit requirements, she was not able to do so. This life-changing experience motivated her to enhance her current knowledge of banking and investing and it inspired her to study finance. Cimone frequently speaks around the country on the importance of minorities investing in cannabis via co-op crops and stocks. She also educates individuals on how to create cannabis-based stock portfolios. To learn more about Cannas Capital visit www.cannascapital.com

May 19, 202127:47
#039 Cherissa Jackson - AMVETS Heal Program
May 12, 202121:50
#038 Naomi Granger - National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals

#038 Naomi Granger - National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals

A former “Big 4” accounting professional, Naomi Granger has over 15 years of experience in both public accounting and industry accounting. Over 4 years ago, Naomi decided to try her hat at entrepreneurship and has never looked back. Naomi recognized a void in the cannabis industry and founded the National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals (NACAT Pros) in order to bring proper bookkeeping, accounting and tax practices to cannabis businesses. NACAT Pros provides educational tools for accountants and financial professionals to enter into the cannabis industry for untapped professional potential. Our mission is to help accountants fall back in love with accounting again, by changing the current state of the accounting industry from being high stress, highly competitive; to a collaborative, value producing asset to our client's businesses. Naomi has a regular expert column in Marijuana Business Daily, one of the top trade publications in the cannabis industry and has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Cheddar TV, on the cover of the Las Vegas Sun, and dozens of other accounting and cannabis publications. To learn more about The National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals visit nacatpros.org

Mar 26, 202136:33
#037 Mariah Dodson - Evolution of Healing

#037 Mariah Dodson - Evolution of Healing

Mariah Dodson is a serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, US Army veteran and local politician who serves as Vice-Chair of the California City, CA City. In 2013 she enrolled at HBCU, Virginia State University but departed after one year to enlist in the Army where shed graduated basic training at the top of her class. She is the owner of a retail CBD store, Evolution of Healing, and Dust to Diamonds, an eco-friendly medical cannabis cultivation and manufacturing facility that is currently under development. To learn more about Evolution of Healing visit evolutionofhealing.com

Mar 16, 202130:42
#036 Jerel Registre - Curio Wellness

#036 Jerel Registre - Curio Wellness

Jerel Registre is Managing Director of the Curio WMBE Fund. The fund was started by Maryland cannabis company Curio Wellness with the goal of investing $30 million dollars to support up to fifty women, minorities, and disabled veterans to open and operate a Curio franchise with a path to 100% ownership in 3 years. To learn more about The Curio Wellness visit https://curiowellness.com/

Mar 07, 202126:37
#035 Gia V Morón - Women Grow

#035 Gia V Morón - Women Grow

Gia V Morón is the President for Women Grow. She oversees the company’s day-to-day operations, internal and external communications, education programming, and strategic partnerships. She began working with Women Grow headquarters in January 2017 as Director of Communications, after transitioning from the Women Grow New York City market in 2016. With 25 years of experience in public relations, in 2012 Gia launched GVM Communications, Inc., a public relations, brand and business development firm. Her client base ranges from small to mid-sized businesses, non-profit organizations, entrepreneurs, authors and celebrity clients. Prior to launching her firm and working with Women Grow, she was a Media Relations Officer in the Corporate Communications department for fifteen years at the Goldman Sachs Group Inc.

While at Goldman Sachs, Gia oversaw various business areas from Private Equity, Urban Investment, Investment Research and Technology to the firm’s organizational focus on Corporate Engagement, Diversity, Recruiting, Human Resources and Corporate Services. Before joining Goldman Sachs, Gia was Director of Promotions and Publicity for six years at The Fremantle Corporation, an international television distribution and production company. Outside of her professional accomplishments, she continuously works with a number of non-profit organizations in New York City and mentors up-and-coming young women entrepreneurs across the country to South Africa. Gia currently resides in her hometown of Brooklyn, NY, with her daughter. To learn more about Women Grow visit https://womengrow.com/

Mar 07, 202155:51
# 034 Bryant Bowens - CRONJA Culture

# 034 Bryant Bowens - CRONJA Culture

Bryant Bowens from Gary, IN, is the Co Founder of CRONJA Culture LLC, Partner at Murano Tips & JC RAD Inc.  CRONJA is a consumer lifestyle brand that caters to a wide range of different needs within the cannabis industry, from high end accessoires to full service distribution and business development consulting. To learn more about CRONJA Culture visit https://www.cronjaculture.com/



Mar 03, 202144:26
#033 Kelly Perez and Courtney Mathis - Cannabis Doing Good
Feb 22, 202152:29
# 032 Venus Hemachandra - Herbiculture
Feb 17, 202131:14
#31 Ngaio Bealum - Comedian | Cannabis Expert

#31 Ngaio Bealum - Comedian | Cannabis Expert

Ngaio Bealum is an American comedian, musician, writer, actor, activist, juggler and publisher. He co-hosted Cannabis Planet and published West Coast Cannabis Magazine. Bealum hosted his own podcast on Cannabis Radio, which was formatted as a travelogue of cannabis events with a discussion on cannabis topics and trends. He writes a column in Sacramento News & Review, answering questions from readers about marijuana and its politics, and currently hosts on cannabis education and trivia app Daily Bonfire. He was also the host of Neflix's first cannabis show, Cooking on High.  Ngaio was born in San Francisco to hippie parents, leading to jokes about how he got his name. As an entertainer and activist, Bealum is often a guest speaker on television and cultural commentary podcasts, notably on topics concerning the cannabis industry. He regularly hosts High Times events, and participates in the annual International Cannabis Business Conference. His debut comedy album "Weed and Sex" was released in 2012. Bealum was also a member of the award winning hip hop band Most Chill Slackmob (vocals, percussion), and 1994 People's Choice Award winner of the International Jugglers Association Fest.  Bealum has a line of cannabis "pre-rolls" through Mothership Farms, where he showcases interesting Cannabis strains through his close relationship with growers. The first release was Tahoe Nebula. He also has a featured strain through Natural Cannabis' "High Life Celebrities" line.

Feb 05, 202138:33
#30 Susan Hwang - Best Dispensary

#30 Susan Hwang - Best Dispensary

With a background in biochemistry and microbiology, as well as being the founder, CEO, and market leader for several cannabis companies, Susan Hwang has a solid understanding of the positive impact cannabis can have on the human body. Propelled by the desire to provide people the positive benefits of cannabis without having to compromise mental clarity, Susan founded DailyDose—a luxury online and retail store that focuses on premium, CBD products. When Susan isn’t working at DailyDose or as the CEO and Class A member of Jamestown Center, Inc., founder and CEO of cannabis consulting firm SH Management Services, LLC, and CEO of Susu Holdings, LLC, Susan is heavily involved in philanthropic endeavors. She actively supports causes committed to gender and racial equality, volunteering for Girls who Inspire, Volunteer and Empower (G.I.V.E), and is an advocate for One Community, which supports LGBTQ rights. Within the cannabis community, Susan serves as Market Leader for Women Grow Phoenix and Women Grow Los Angeles, one of the largest national networks for cannabis entrepreneurs. To learn more about Best Dispensary visit https://bestdispensary.com/

Feb 03, 202146:36
 #029 Andrew Farrior - Digital Venture Partners

#029 Andrew Farrior - Digital Venture Partners

Andrew Farrior is the Managing Partner at Digital Venture Partners. He has over 10 years of Marketing, Communications, and Project Management experience. Digital Venture Partners was founded as one of the only minority-owned portfolio companies in the United States and is focused on the intersection of mainstream culture and cannabis. By collaborating with brands and platforms, they create quality cannabis content and branding that raises cannabis awareness in the minds of mainstream audiences from every background. Digital Venture Partners has been featured in Fortune Magazine, The Associated Press, Playboy, REVOLT, Cannabis Business Times, BET and more. To Learn More about Digital Venture Partners visit https://www.digitalventure.partners/

Jan 22, 202138:19
#028 Yoko Miyashita - Leafly
Jan 20, 202127:34
#27 Alphonso "Tucky" Blunt Jr. - Blunts + Moore

#27 Alphonso "Tucky" Blunt Jr. - Blunts + Moore

A child of Yahweh, Husband, Father, Hard Worker, Hustla, Alphonso (Tucky) Blunt Jr., is a true testament to walking your path. The Owner of both Blunts + Moore dispensary, and Proud Papas clothing is a 5th generation Oakland native, that has opened the 1st dispensary under Oakland's Cannabis Equity Program. While growing up in Oakland, California during the war on drugs era, he managed to stay out of trouble and maintain a 4.0 gpa and a full time job while in high school. He was also using and selling cannabis. Cannabis sales to him was another form of employment. In 1999 while on an errand with his grandmother, she had him go to a dispensary, from that day forward his mission was to own one for himself, so he could sale cannabis legally. He worked at and was a vendor for multiple bay area dispensaries from 1999-2004. In 2003 he attempted to become an owner of a dispensary, and was told blacks would never own in this business. In 2004 he was arrested for possession with the intent to sale, and given 10 years of felony probation with a 4 way search clause. Still determined to learn more on the legal side, he attended and graduated from Oaksterdam University in 2008. In true path formation, had he not been arrested, he would not have qualified for the Equity program... Now as the 1st person to open a dispensary under Oakland's Equity program, he is finally continuing on that path of ownership. His goals and values are still spiritual and family driven. He is looking to change the face of the cannabis industry, one location at a time. Blunts + Moore opened its doors on November 24th, 2018 to a huge crowd, great food, and lifted spirits. A native born son, selling cannabis legally in OAKLAND!!!
Jan 08, 202101:01:43
#026 Kim Napoli, Esq - Parallel

#026 Kim Napoli, Esq - Parallel

Kim Napoli is the Senior Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Affairs at Parallel, one of the largest privately-held multi-state cannabis operators in the U.S. Kim served as the Director of Outreach for the successful Yes on 4 Campaign to Regulate and Tax Marijuana in Massachusetts in 2016. Now, as a Massachusetts Cannabis Advisory Board member, Kim helps develop and deliver messaging regarding social justice and equality in the Massachusetts cannabis industry in order to support and bolster equity in ownership amongst disparately impacted communities such as her own. To learn more about Parallel visit https://www.liveparallel.com/

Dec 27, 202021:01
#025 Richard Ng - Cookies | Backbone

#025 Richard Ng - Cookies | Backbone

Richard Ng is a ‘cannapreneur’ who is committed to creating an equitable cannabis industry. As a Social Impact consultant he worked with startups in the San Francisco Bay Area to increase their community impact. In his decade of experience in the cannabis industry he has worked with Washington state–based and BIPOC owned legacy brands Gold Leaf Gardens and Leira Cannagars on business development and social impact strategies, and with Make Green Go as a technical assistance provider for the City of Oakland’s Social Equity Program.

He currently works with the leading cannabis and hemp manufacturing software provider Backbone as a sales enablement and operations specialist and is a social impact program coordinator for the world’s most recognized cannabis brand, Cookies. 

To learn more about Backbone visit https://www.backboneiq.com/ and Cookies at https://cookies.co/

Dec 18, 202046:37
#024 Ishaq Ali - Eaze
Dec 03, 202001:07:59
#023 Mary Jane Oatman and Amir Caliph El Bey - The Indigenous History of Cannabis
Nov 27, 202028:35
#022 Dasheeda Dawson and Ice Dawson - She Blaze

#022 Dasheeda Dawson and Ice Dawson - She Blaze

She Blaze is a trailblazing podcast bringing Cannabis culture from a woman’s perspective to the mainstream. Co-hosts Dasheeda and Ice are millennial women offering a frank and funny take on the industry, combining keen business insight with head-nodding real talk, news, reviews, and interviews. Welcome to a bold new take on the high life.  The award-winning weekly show offers a glimpse into life of trendsetting thought-leader Dasheeda Dawson, with ‘Where in the World is The WeedHead™’ and the fun, girly, cultural intersection with little sister, Ice Dawson, the Cannabis Socialite whose bubbly personality and striking white ensembles have made her a rising influencer on the cannabis social scene. Dasheeda is an internationally renowned cannabis leader and expert who has used her business acumen and background in molecular biology to shape multi-million dollar industry projects and currently serves as the Cannabis Program Supervisor for the city of Portland, OR. While Ice isn’t just the life of the party, she also knows how to get it started as an event producer.  Together, they offer an incisive industry perspective fueled by their on-the-ground experience. Join them every Saturday at 9am PST/12pm EST for the latest from the world of cannabis. To learn more about The Weedhead™ & Company and She Blaze visit https://www.theweedhead.com/
Nov 27, 202001:08:46
#021 Nadir Pearson - SMART (Student Marijuana Alliance for Research & Transparency)

#021 Nadir Pearson - SMART (Student Marijuana Alliance for Research & Transparency)

Nadir Pearson, a recent graduate of Brown University is the founder of SMART (Student Marijuana Alliance for Research & Transparency) a national college cannabis community. After his freshman year a, Nadir was forced to retire from his Division 1 football career after suffering his sixth concussion. and made the pivot from a full-time student athlete to entrepreneur. He's now been featured in Forbes, Huff Post, and Entrepreneur. An expert digital strategist, Pearson has experience with Herb, High Times, Ardent Cannabis and some of the cannabis industry's most prominent media platforms. Nadir has also given a TED Talk on cannabis. You can learn more about SMART at https://studentmmj.com/
Nov 27, 202036:47
#020 Leo Bridgewater

#020 Leo Bridgewater

Leo Bridgewater Sr. currently serves as Director of Veteran's Outreach for Minorities for Medical Marijuana. Born and raised in Trenton NJ, he attended Trenton Central High School graduating in 1994. In 2001 Leo enlisted into the United States Army in response to the September 11 attacks in New York City and Washington DC and served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as an Army Specialist.   Leo’s advocacy has seen him testify in NJ Senate Committee to have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) added to the NJ Medical Marijuana Program. In September of 2016 NJ Gov. Chris Christie signed bill S-2345 adding PTSD to the NJMMP.  He is also a plaintiff in a lawsuit against Attorney General Jeff Sessions and the Department of Justice over the unconstitutional classification of cannabis as a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance. Harmony, the medical cannabis dispensary in Secaucus, honored Leo Bridgewater in time for Memorial Day by naming a cannabis strain after him, Bridge H2O. The strain was developed in consultation with Bridgewater to alleviate PTSD and anxiety, among other conditions, many veterans and others experience. 

Nov 25, 202025:55
#019 Rico Lamitte - Canivision
Nov 20, 202050:57
#018 Landon Dais - Plant Inspired Future
Nov 11, 202046:28