Grow Sessions

On today’s episode of Grow Sessions, "Cannabis Genetics: The Root of Success in Commercial Cultivation," we welcome guest host Zachary Taylor, GM of Cultivation at Bountiful Farms, and Jason Begley, CEO of Zennetix, a leader in cannabis genetics. Success in the cannabis industry starts with understanding the importance of genetics as the foundation of quality cultivation. This episode dives into how genetics deliver consistent high yields and premium quality in commercial operations. Today we explore the balance between preserving valuable legacy strains and leveraging advanced techniques like tissue culture to produce disease-free "Gen Zero" plants. In this episode we break down how tissue culture creates genetically pure starter material that eliminates threats like hop latent viroid, providing cultivators with a clean, reliable foundation. The discussion covers practical strategies for choosing genetics that scale effectively, managing genetic diversity across large operations, and sidestepping the pitfalls that can compromise entire harvests. We also detail how tissue culture streamlines propagation while guaranteeing pathogen-free plants and consistency. Beyond cultivation, the conversation explores how genetic innovations are opening new doors in medical cannabis and addressing the worldwide need for cleaner, higher-quality plant material and the importance of honoring traditional strains while embracing scientific advances that push the industry forward. For cultivators, breeders, and plant science enthusiasts, this episode delivers the knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. About Zachary Taylor, GM Cultivation, Bountiful Farms Zach Taylor serves as GM of Cultivation at Bountiful Farms, a premium cannabis company operating a medical dispensary in Natick, Massachusetts and a cutting-edge cultivation facility in Lakeville, MA. With over 15 years in the cannabis industry, Zach began as a caregiver in Colorado in 2007, becoming one of the first 18-year-olds to receive a medical license and among the first 5,000 licensed cannabis employees nationwide. He spent six years managing large-scale cultivation operations in Colorado before bringing his expertise to Massachusetts. Since co-founding Bountiful Farms in 2018, Zach has built a cultivation program that consistently delivers award-winning cannabis. Under his leadership, the team has earned multiple Best Grass in Mass cultivator cups and numerous other industry recognitions for their uncompromising approach to quality products. Rooted in his agricultural background and driven by cannabis's medical potential, Zach continues to innovate with new cultivation techniques and strains. He remains passionate about drug policy reform and finds the greatest satisfaction in serving both medical patients and recreational consumers with exceptional cannabis products. Please visit www.bountifulfarms.care [https://www.bountifulfarms.care/] to learn more about Bountiful Farms. About Jason Begley, Zennetix At Zennetix, we are dedicated to the art of propagating perfection. Our Gen Zero tissue culture clones are certified pest and pathogen-free.  Using Zennetix Gen-Zero clones means more vigorous plants and higher yields -- helping you consistently cultivate the best possible cannabis.  Inquire about our demand planning services to keep your mother room performing year-round. If you have questions, you can reach Jason at jason@zennetix.com [Mailto: jason@zennetix.com]. Please visit www.zennetix.com [https://www.zennetix.com/] to learn more about Zennetix. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, Tony Pavlakis sits down with Jim Megerson of Anvil Agrinomics about the complexities of designing efficient indoor cannabis cultivation facilities. Titled “Connecting Your Cannabis Grow: Easy Efficiency with Integrated Systems,” the episode emphasizes the critical need for system integration over siloed approaches. Early collaboration between architects and engineers is spotlighted as essential to avoiding costly structural and operational issues. They dive into key design considerations—like balancing upfront costs with long-term returns, adopting effective building automation systems, and tackling the integration of environmental controls (such as lighting and fertigation) from the start. The discussion also explores the value of consistent data tracking for smart operational decisions and the importance of a well-defined business plan that drives infrastructure needs, rather than forcing operations into existing building limitations. Strategic planning and integrated design are essential for the future of efficient indoor cultivation. Tune in now to gain practical insights from this must-hear episode. About Jim Megerson, Anvil Argninomics With over 40 years of experience in the design and construction of building systems, Jim Megerson leads Anvil Agrinomics while keeping current with issues of building systems design, including indoor controlled environments for agriculture, energy efficiency standards and green building practices.  During college, Jim completed a sheet metal worker apprenticeship program where he gained invaluable knowledge in the fabrication and installation of sheet metal products, HVAC equipment and associated hardware for large commercial, material handling and clean room applications.  This combines world class engineering knowledge along with hands-on, tool belt wearing experience to balancing design, construction cost, operations & maintenance to achieve the best return on the owner’s HVACD investment. Jim participates on multiple National Committees including the NCIAs’ Facility committee and ASHRAEs’ MTG on controlled environments for agriculture. He regularly speaks on these topics at national conferences. Anvil Agrinomics has completed MEP design on over 40 cannabis cultivation and manufacturing spaces and over 20 dispensaries in 20 different states. This combines to approximately 1.8 million sqft of cannabis industry facilities. If you have questions, you can reach Jim at jmeg@anvil-ag.com [Mailto: jmeg@anvil-ag.com]. Please visit www.anvil-ag.com [https://www.anvil-ag.com/] to learn more about Anvil Agrinomics. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In today's episode of Grow Sessions, host Tony Pavlakis speaks with Timo Bongartz, CEO of Cannavigia, for an insider's perspective on the cannabis industry's evolving global ecosystem. This episode dives into cannabis cultivation, regulation, and technological innovation — with a special focus on the European market. Timo provides a comprehensive overview of Cannavigia's cutting-edge seed-to-sale tracking software, which has become a critical tool for cannabis businesses navigating Europe's stringent regulatory landscape. The conversation unpacks the critical differences between European and US cannabis markets, highlighting Europe's medical-focused approach and the critical importance of precise tracking and compliance. Key highlights include an exploration of the challenges encountered by cannabis businesses globally, such as banking restrictions and regulatory complexities, alongside the significant opportunities arising in markets like Germany. Timo provides valuable insights into vertical integration, technological solutions, and the global future of cannabis legalization, making this episode an essential resource for industry professionals and cannabis enthusiasts seeking to deepen their understanding. About Timo Bongartz, Cannavigia, CEO  Timo Bongartz brings over 15 years of business innovation expertise to his role as Chief Executive Officer at Cannavigia, specializing in the horticulture and cannabis sectors. Previously at Fluence and OSRAM, he focused on advanced horticultural lighting. An MBA graduate from Hochschule München with certifications in management and horticulture, Timo drives sustainable growth in the industry. If you have questions, you can reach Timo at timo.bongartz@cannavigia.com [ timo.bongartz@cannavigia.com]. Please visit www.cannavigia.com [https://www.cannavigia.com/] to learn more about Cannavigia. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

It’s a new season of Grow Sessions, and we’re excited to chat with Jordan Isenstadt of Marino Public Relations about the unique challenges of cannabis PR in an episode titled "Building a Buzz - Public Relations in the Cannabis Industry." Jordan dives into the complexities of federal restrictions and state-by-state legalization, explaining how these factors shape cannabis PR strategies. A major highlight of the episode is MJBizCon, the cannabis industry’s premier event. Jordan shares why this gathering remains crucial for networking and brand building, despite some criticism. He offers actionable tips to stand out, such as launching products ahead of the show and hosting unforgettable events to create buzz. The conversation also explores the rising importance of influencer marketing, authentic storytelling, and crafting a clear, compelling message to normalize the industry and connect with consumers. Whether you’re a cannabis business looking to grow or just interested in learning more about PR in this unique space, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. About Jordan Isenstadt, Marino Public Relations Jordan Isenstadt founded Marino’s cannabis strategic communications practice in 2018 and has built it into an industry leading force. A former advisor to the New York State Senate and the New York State Governor’s office, he has led award-winning strategic communications programs for a broad spectrum of clients up and down the cannabis supply chain, as well as ancillaries and non-planting entities. He is a regular contributor in various cannabis and policy media outlets offering dope public relations insights. Additionally, Jordan is an Executive Member of the Cannabis Collective and was named a Cannabis Power Player by Politics NY for the 2nd year in a row. Jordan has been a cannabis aficionado for over 25 years and while he still prefers flower, he does enjoy experimenting with all of the newer routes of administration, including beverages, oral sprays, lozenges, tinctures and powders. If you have questions, you can reach Jordan at JIsenstadt@marinopr.com [Mailto: JIsenstadt@marinopr.com] Please visit www.marinopr.com [https://marinopr.com/] to learn more about Marino Public Relations. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

Join us for an inspiring conversation on Grow Sessions with Kris Artz, founder of Rhythm of Life Cannabis, as he shares his journey as a cannabis entrepreneur. Discover how he overcame the hurdles of launching a cannabis business amid the COVID-19 pandemic, including the construction of a hybrid greenhouse to bring his dream to life. Kris opens up about a devastating fire that destroyed his facility just days before planting, forcing him to lay off his team, lose prized genetics, and pivot his business. Through resilience and industry support, he found the strength to rebuild, grow in a partner's facility, and continue his journey despite overwhelming financial and emotional hurdles. In today's episode we will talk about the lessons Kris learned along the way, including the importance of staying connected within the industry, navigating insurance hurdles, and innovating to stand out in a competitive market. This episode is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the passion required to thrive in the cannabis industry. About Kris Artz & Rhythm of Life Cannabis Kristofer Artz Founder and CEO of Rhythm of Life Cannabis grew up in the mountains of Colorado in a small town called Nederland. His love for the outdoors and plants began at a very young age in these mountains, as he has been exploring and working with plants almost his entire life. From gardening in the hills with his mother to garage and house grows with his friends or caring for an 80 ft tall Maple tree he has always been connected to plants. After his up bringing and returning home from college he landed a job at an organic fertilizing company which excelled his career forward and landed him in the Cannabis industry. He has been in cultivating Cannabis for over 18 years and in the commercial industry for over a decade. From craft to large scale operations Kris has done it all and has simplified how cannabis is cultivated through his own passion for this plant. When he isn’t in the garden you can catch him hiking 4000 footers in New Hampshire and enjoying time at the beach with friends and on the slopes snowboarding. If you have questions, you can reach Kris Artz at rhythmoflifecannabis@gmail.com [Mailto: rhythmoflifecannabis@gmail.com] Please visit www.rhythmoflifecannabis.com [https://www.rhythmoflifecannabis.com/] to learn more about Rhythm of Life Cannabis. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.