Breaking the Grass Ceiling: Ashley Picillo's Journey in Cannabis

Resilience, Grit, and Sass: Katelyn Koskey Journey in the Cannabis Industry

From Dispensary Manager to VP of Client Success: Katelyn Koskey's Story Welcome to another episode of the Bodacious Women in Cannabis podcast! I'm your host, Susan Burns, a cannabis lawyer and founder of Botanicals for Boomers. Today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Katelyn Koskey, the Vice President of Client Success at Point7 Group, a leading cannabis business management firm. Katelyn shared her journey in the cannabis industry, starting from her early days managing dispensaries to her current role at Point7 Group. She detailed the comprehensive services Point7 offers, from pre-legalization support to post-licensing operational guidance. Katelyn emphasized the importance of authenticity and human connection in their approach, which sets Point7 apart in the industry. We delved into Katelyn's unique role as VP of Client Success, where she combines business development with project management to ensure clients' success from initial contact through to operationalization. Katelyn's favorite part of her job is the human interaction and the satisfaction of helping clients win licenses and start their businesses. Katelyn also opened up about her personal challenges, including entering the industry without a college degree and overcoming barriers through hard work and networking. Her resilience, grit, and willingness to learn have been key to her success. She shared valuable advice on putting oneself out there and the importance of continuous learning in the ever-evolving cannabis industry. We also discussed the fascinating science behind cannabis, the impact of different cannabinoids and terpenes, and the ongoing research that keeps the industry dynamic and exciting. Katelyn's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Her story is inspiring for anyone looking to make their mark in the cannabis industry. You can connect with Katelyn and follow Point7 Group on their social media platforms and website.   TIMESTAMP 00:00:16 - Introduction to Bodacious Women in Cannabis Podcast 00:00:31 - Meet Your Host: Susan Burns 00:01:04 - Guest Introduction: Katelyn Koski 00:01:24 - Working Together on License Applications 00:01:51 - Overview of Point7 Group 00:03:21 - Point7 Group's Services and Phases 00:04:42 - History and Growth of Point7 Group 00:05:18 - Role of VP of Client Success 00:06:53 - Favorite Part of the Job 00:08:23 - Katelyn's Background in Dispensary Management 00:09:50 - Overcoming Challenges Without a College Degree 00:13:01 - Advice for Job Seekers in the Cannabis Industry 00:13:47 - Why Katelyn Chose the Cannabis Industry 00:16:17 - The Science and Complexity of Cannabis 00:18:25 - The Versatility of the Cannabis Plant 00:18:48 - The Impact of Cannabis Prohibition 00:19:34 - Katelyn's Career Milestones 00:22:08 - Reflecting on Career Achievements 00:23:58 - What Makes Katelyn Bodacious 00:25:50 - How to Connect with Katelyn and Point7 Group Produced by PodConx [https://podconx.com/] Susan Burns' Email [susan@susanburnsllc.com] Susan Burns' Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/] Sound Design by Jamie Humiston [jhumiston@mjbulls.com] Previous Episodes [https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/]

From Lab Equipment to Cannabis: Catherine Sidman's Journey

THE INTERSECTION OF CANNABIS AND TECHNOLOGY WITH KATHERINE SIDMAN In this episode of the Bodacious Women in Cannabis podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Catherine Sidman, a seasoned professional in laboratory equipment sales who has been focused on the cannabis industry since 2010. Catherine shared her unique journey into the cannabis space, highlighting how her technical sales background and people skills made her a perfect fit for this evolving industry. We delved into the intricacies of laboratory equipment used in cannabis extraction, discussing how these tools, although not unique to cannabis, play a crucial role in ensuring product safety and quality. Katherine explained the importance of vacuum ovens in the extraction process, drawing parallels to their use in other industries like pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Our conversation also touched on the challenges faced by cannabis businesses, particularly around access to monetary systems and the regulatory landscape. Katherine emphasized the resilience and passion of cannabis operators, many of whom are multi-generational and deeply committed to the plant. We explored the differences and tensions between the hemp and regulated cannabis markets, especially in light of recent legislative changes and the potential rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule 3. Catherine shared her insights on how these developments might impact the industry and the importance of normalizing cannabis use. One of the highlights of our discussion was Catherine's love for the cannabis industry culture. She spoke passionately about the sense of community and support that exists among industry professionals, particularly at in-person events and conferences. To wrap up, Catherine shared her contact information and encouraged listeners to connect with her on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Future 4200 forum.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinesidman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinesidman/]   00:00:16 - Introduction to Bodacious Women in Cannabis Podcast 00:00:30 - Meet Your Host: Susan Burns 00:01:02 - Guest Introduction: Katherine Sidman 00:01:33 - Katherine's Journey into Laboratory Equipment Sales 00:02:27 - Transition to Cannabis Industry 00:03:11 - Unique Aspects of Cannabis Laboratory Equipment 00:04:05 - Challenges in Cannabis Business Transactions 00:04:49 - Learning from Industry Pioneers 00:05:32 - Importance of Vacuum Ovens in Cannabis Extraction 00:07:21 - Simplifying Extraction Processes 00:09:02 - Vacuum Processing Explained 00:10:16 - Introduction to Butane Honey Oil (BHO) 00:11:28 - Benefits of Non-Combustible Cannabis Products 00:12:57 - Safety and Regulation of Solvents 00:14:39 - Comparison with Other Industries 00:16:17 - Passion for the Cannabis Industry 00:18:33 - Reflections on the 2018 Farm Bill 00:20:00 - Challenges in Cannabis and Hemp Regulation 00:22:00 - Impact of Rescheduling to Schedule 3 00:24:26 - Market Demand for Low-Dose Products 00:25:46 - Regulatory Discrepancies Across States 00:26:31 - Passionate People in the Cannabis Industry 00:27:36 - Unique Bodaciousness in the Cannabis Industry 00:28:19 - Importance of In-Person Events 00:29:38 - Cannabis Industry Culture 00:31:19 - Where to Find Katherine Sidman Produced by PodConx [https://podconx.com/] Susan Burns' Email [susan@susanburnsllc.com] Susan Burns' Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/] Sound Design by Jamie Humiston [jhumiston@mjbulls.com] Previous Episodes [https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/]

Breaking the Grass Ceiling: Ashley Picillo's Journey in Cannabis

Building a Cannabis Business: Insights from Point7 Group's Ashley Picillo In this episode of the Bodacious Women in Cannabis podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ashley Picillo, the Founder and CEO of Point7 Group and author of "Breaking the Grass Ceiling: Women, Weed, and Business." Ashley shared her fascinating journey into the cannabis industry, which began somewhat accidentally in 2014 when she was working on a non-cannabis project in Colorado. Her path led her to meet influential figures in the industry, and she eventually founded Point7 Group, a management consulting firm dedicated to cannabis. Ashley discussed the challenges and opportunities she faced while building her business, emphasizing the importance of compliance in the cannabis industry. She highlighted how Point7 Group helps clients achieve licensure and maintain compliance, ensuring they have the knowledge to operate autonomously. Ashley also touched on her second business, Grove Cannabis, which provides fractional compliance services to small and mid-sized operators. We delved into her book, "Breaking the Grass Ceiling," which explores the role of women in the cannabis industry. Ashley reflected on the progress and setbacks women have faced in this space, noting that while there are opportunities, the industry still mirrors many of the challenges seen in other sectors. Throughout our conversation, Ashley's commitment to honesty, ethical business practices, and supporting women in the industry shone through. Her insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to navigate the ever-evolving world of cannabis. Listeners can connect with Ashley and learn more about her work through the Point7 Group website and her social media channels. It was an inspiring and enlightening discussion, and I hope you find it as engaging as I did.   00:00:16 - Introduction to Bodacious Women in Cannabis Podcast 00:00:32 - Meet Your Host: Susan Burns 00:01:07 - Guest Introduction: Ashley Pacillo 00:01:43 - Early Collaboration and Insights 00:02:23 - Ashley's Journey into the Cannabis Industry 00:06:00 - Founding Point7 Group 00:09:26 - Core Focus of Point7 Group 00:11:08 - Importance of Compliance in Cannabis 00:13:58 - Challenges with Changing Regulations 00:15:14 - Educating Regulators and Social Equity Programs 00:22:19 - Inefficiencies in State Compliance 00:22:30 - Ashley's Book: Breaking the Grass Ceiling 00:28:00 - Women in Cannabis Industry: Challenges and Opportunities 00:30:01 - Overcoming Challenges and Building a Business 00:34:22 - Coping Skills and Support Systems 00:37:07 - Realities of the Cannabis Industry 00:38:22 - What Makes Ashley Bodacious 00:41:19 - Core Values and Leadership 00:44:50 - How to Connect with Ashley Pacillo Produced by PodConx [https://podconx.com/] Susan Burns' Email [susan@susanburnsllc.com] Susan Burns' Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/] Sound Design by Jamie Humiston [jhumiston@mjbulls.com] Previous Episodes [https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/]

Empowering Women in Cannabis: A Conversation with Heidi Whitman

BREAKING BARRIERS: WOMEN LEADING THE CANNABIS REVOLUTION  In this episode of the Bodacious Women in Cannabis podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Heidi Whitman, a dynamic and inspiring cannabis industry consultant. Heidi shared her incredible journey into the cannabis industry, which was deeply influenced by her father's use of cannabis for mental health and her own experiences with holistic veterinary care. Heidi's story is one of resilience and passion. She recounted how her father's struggle with cancer and the inability to provide him with cannabis in a Tampa hospital in 2000 sparked her determination to bring cannabis into empathetic healthcare settings. This drive led her to create the Naked Leaf brand, focusing on natural health products for both people and pets, which she successfully launched in the UK in 2018. Throughout our conversation, Heidi highlighted the challenges she faced, including the mishandling of her brand post-acquisition and the ethical dilemmas she encountered in the industry. Despite these obstacles, Heidi's commitment to ethical practices and her passion for the cannabis industry have only grown stronger. Heidi is now a consultant, working on various innovative projects, including precision medicine and internationalization of cannabis brands. She is also a co-founder of the Empower Her Cannabis Society, a rapidly growing network of over 600 women from 24 nations, dedicated to supporting and uplifting women in the cannabis industry. Heidi's dedication to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment in the cannabis space is truly inspiring. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and the pursuit of one's passion. Listeners can connect with Heidi on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and the Empower Her Cannabis Society. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the cannabis industry and the incredible women leading the way. https://heidi-whitman.com/ [https://heidi-whitman.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-whitman-535a067/ Produced by PodConx [https://podconx.com/] Susan Burns' Email [susan@susanburnsllc.com] Susan Burns' Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/] Sound Design by Jamie Humiston [jhumiston@mjbulls.com] Previous Episodes [https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/]

From South Africa to the World: Sista Vee Nohombile Bush on Cannabis Medicine

THE HUMAN COMPANION PLANT: INSIGHTS FROM A SOUTH AFRICAN RASTAFARIAN HEALER  In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sista Vee Nohombile Bush, a Rastafarian from South Africa and the author of "Cannabis is the Human Companion Plant." Sista Vee. shared her incredible journey and deep connection with cannabis, which she has been working with since she was 12 years old. Sista Vee. explained her African name and her close ties with the Isikosa tribe, who protected her during her field research. She currently resides in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, where she serves as the medical officer at the Cannock Club, a private cannabis club. As a registered traditional healer, she uses the whole cannabis plant in her treatments, including the bud, leaves, roots, and seeds, and emphasizes the importance of using virgin organic coconut oil. We delved into her book, which was inspired by her grandmother, also a healer. Sista Vee. shared how her grandmother continues to guide her through visions and dreams, helping her stay on her path of healing with plant medicine. She discussed the challenges she faced, including multiple arrests and the need to work in secret due to the legal status of cannabis in South Africa during apartheid. Sista Vee. highlighted the medical benefits of cannabis, noting its effectiveness in treating a wide range of conditions, including liver diseases and even cancer. She also touched on the fascinating history of the endocannabinoid system, which dates back 350 million years, and its presence in various animals, except for bees. We also discussed the current legal landscape of cannabis in South Africa, where it is now legal for private use but not for trade. Sista Vee expressed her concerns about the challenges facing the hemp industry in the United States and the need for more collaboration and understanding of the plant's benefits. To wrap up, Sista Vee shared how listeners can purchase her book and connect with her on social media. It was an enlightening conversation that showcased the profound impact of cannabis on health and well-being, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to share Sista Vee's wisdom with our audience. xhosastyles.blogspot.com [http://www.xhosastyles.blogspot.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/sista-vee-nohombile-bush-b2072418/?originalSubdomain=za [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sista-vee-nohombile-bush-b2072418/?originalSubdomain=za] Produced by PodConx [https://podconx.com/] Susan Burns' Email [susan@susanburnsllc.com] Susan Burns' Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sburnslegal/] Sound Design by Jamie Humiston [jhumiston@mjbulls.com] Previous Episodes [https://bodacious-women-in-cannabis.simplecast.com/]