Contributors

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Co-host

AnnaRae Grabstein, CEO of Wolf Meyer

AnnaRae Grabstein is renowned for turning visions into reality and catalyzing growth in emerging sectors. With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience as a founder, C-suite exec and operator she's adept at navigating the burgeoning cannabis markets with resilience and flair.  In 2022, she founded Wolf Meyer to champion the most promising companies and leaders in cannabis and psychedelics in navigating complex and transformative opportunities via advisory and management consulting. She holds board of director positions at GreenBax Marketplace, Chemistry, and WWOOF and is a VC fund advisor to JourneyOne Ventures.  

Previously AnnaRae was CEO & Co-founder of Steep Hill, the first cannabis analysis lab and CCO of NorCal Cannabis, a vertically integrated cannabis company and COO of Marin Sun Farms.  AnnaRae is dedicated to bolstering women's leadership and holds an MBA from the University of San Francisco.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/annarae/
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Co-host

Ben Larson, CEO of Vertosa

Ben Larson has built, coached, and invested in early stage companies in the tech and cannabis sectors for over a decade. He is the CEO of Vertosa, a science-backed, service-first cannabis company that creates the most effective and reliable active ingredients for infused products. 

Ben co-founded Gateway in 2015, California's first silicon valley-style business accelerator dedicated to the emerging cannabis industry. Previously, at Founder Institute, he mentored and directed local programs while managing global operations into over 100 cities around the world. 

Mr. Larson is a founding board member of the Cannabis Beverage Association and founding member of ATACH's Cannabis Beverage Council; and he was recently elected as Treasurer of the Executive Board for the National Cannabis Industry Association. He was recognized by Forbes in 2022 and 2023 as one of the 42 pioneers to watch in the green rush.


http://in.blarson.com

Guests

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Guest

Aaron Nosbisch, CEO of Brēz and Lucyd Media

Aaron Nosbisch is not just the driving force behind BRĒZ; he is a seasoned entrepreneur with a deep passion for the cannabis and hemp industry. His journey from launching a direct-to-consumer clothing line at 13 to steering Brēz’s explosive growth showcases a relentless pursuit of innovation. Through his leadership at Lucyd Media, Aaron has honed an acute expertise in compliant social advertising for Conscious Compounds™ like cannabis, psychedelics, and adaptogens, making him a leading voice in the space.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronnosbisch/

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Ben Meggs, CEO of Bayou City Hemp, Howdy, and 8th Wonder

Ben Meggs brings a wealth of experience from the Oil and Gas sector to the hemp industry, where he has become a pioneer in hemp retail and regulation. As CEO of Bayou City Hemp and Howdy, Ben is at the forefront of the industry’s expansion, driving technical oversight, operations, and ensuring top-quality production. His leadership is guiding his brands to capture the essence of Texas and deliver it to consumers across the country.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmeggs/

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Jason Ortiz, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Last Prisoner Project

Jason Ortiz, a cannabis justice advocate, has turned personal adversity into a platform for change. From being arrested at 16 for simple cannabis possession to leading strategic initiatives for the Last Prisoner Project, Jason's journey is a testament to the power of advocacy and determination. His work with the Minority Cannabis Business Association and as a drafter of key legislation in Connecticut showcases his impact on creating equitable cannabis policies.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-ortiz-a5672a236/

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Javier Hasse, Managing Director at Benzinga Cannabis

Javier Hasse is not just a reporter but a thought leader in the cannabis space. His book, "𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐎𝐰𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬," has topped Amazon charts, making him a pivotal figure in cannabis entrepreneurship education. As co-founder and CEO of El Planteo, he's at the forefront of Spanish-language cannabis journalism, bridging cultural gaps and bringing vital news to a diverse audience. His work spans across major media outlets, influencing both public perception and policy.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/javierhasse/

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Judson Hill, Georgia Market President for Fine Fettle

A native Atlantan and forward-thinking leader, Judson Hill is at the forefront of introducing medical cannabis to Georgia. With a background in fundraising and developing sales organizations across various industries, Judson now focuses on lobbying, government affairs, and educating Georgians about the benefits of medical cannabis. His work is pivotal in shaping a responsible and patient-centered cannabis market in his home state.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/judson-hill-b551a245/

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Michael Johnson, CEO of Metrc

Appointed as CEO in 2022, Michael Johnson has rapidly steered Metrc toward innovative horizons. With a rich background as CFO at various technology and health firms, Michael brings a unique perspective to the cannabis compliance sector. His approach is not just about monitoring and regulation but fostering an ecosystem that supports safe, sustainable growth in the industry.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-johnson-41458115/

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Tahir Johnson, CEO of Simply Pure Trenton

Tahir's journey in the cannabis industry is both personal and professional. With a history marked by advocacy and a personal narrative intertwined with the criminal justice system, his work extends beyond business, aiming to rectify the long-term impacts of the war on drugs. His leadership roles have equipped him with unique insights into the intersections of policy, social equity, and industry dynamics, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the future of cannabis in New Jersey and beyond.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahirjohnson/

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