The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA

[AUDIO Only] The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA: Brad Wood on Keeping AI Slop Out of The Grow

A candid conversation exploring the real-world applications and limitations of artificial intelligence in the cannabis cultivation business. With nearly a decade of experience in machine learning and AI, the guest cuts through the noise of industry hype to discuss where AI genuinely delivers value — and where it falls short. Topics covered include the risks of relying on AI models for precision irrigation and cultivation decisions, the importance of training data quality, and how to vet AI vendors by asking the right questions. The episode also highlights practical wins, including how AI-powered compliance automation reduced a task that once required two and a half full-time employees down to just minutes. Whether you're a cannabis operator, tech enthusiast, or business owner curious about AI adoption, this episode offers a grounded, experience-driven perspective on separating legitimate AI solutions from empty claims.

[AUDIO Only] The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA: Frank Colombo on Cannabis Investment & Market Insight

In today’s episode of The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA, host Greg Dunaway sits down with Frank Colombo, Managing Director and Director of Data Analytics at Viridian Capital Advisors. As one of the most trusted names in cannabis investment, Frank brings decades of credit research and valuation expertise to help demystify the complex financial landscape of the industry. Greg and Frank dive into the looming "debt cliff" of 2026, discussing which major operators are successfully navigating refinancing and which face more significant risks. They unpack the controversial strategy of accruing uncertain tax liabilities related to 280E—a move used by many large MSOs to preserve cash flow—and explore Frank’s proprietary credit scoring system that ranks companies based on liquidity, leverage, profitability, and size. Frank also provides a masterclass in industry risk by comparing the current state of cannabis to the historical cycles of the airline industry, highlighting why consolidation is the key to mitigating brutal price compression. Looking ahead, he shares his bold outlook for 2026 as a potential turnaround year driven by new state markets like Virginia and Pennsylvania, while offering a candid take on the regulatory "Wild West" of the hemp market.

[AUDIO only] The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA: Jeremy Berke on Wishlists and Washington Roadblocks

In today’s episode of The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA, host Greg Dunaway sits down with Jeremy Berke, one of the most respected journalists in the industry—formerly of Business Insider and now with Cultivated News. With sources spanning Capitol Hill and deep ties across the sector, Jeremy brings his trademark candor and insight to dissect the volatile intersection of our market and politics. Greg and Jeremy discuss how presidential rhetoric, particularly from figures like Trump, affects the market and influences industry expectations. They unpack the political dynamics at play—discussing everything from the nuances of rescheduling, partisan divides, and the influence of lobbyists, to the reality of compliance in the wake of high-profile ICE raids.  Jeremy also highlights what reporters often miss when covering the market, the challenges of testing infrastructure, and how grassroots energy is keeping the industry vibrant, despite federal uncertainty.

[AUDIO] The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA: Surviving the Squeeze. Amy Larson shares brand strategies

In this episode, host Greg Dunaway sits down with Amy Larson, a seasoned leader in cannabis marketing and operations, for a raw and insightful conversation about the state of the industry. Together, they discuss the realities of market compression, eroding margins, and the painful lessons many brands and operators are facing in today’s cannabis landscape. Drawing from Amy's experience at companies like Tilt and RX Green, you'll hear candid reflections on what it really takes to survive and thrive—hint: it’s not just about chasing the next green rush or hoping for federal reform. Greg and Amy also unpack the challenges of building authentic brands, surviving the race to the bottom in pricing, and navigating regulatory minefields with limited resources. They share hard-won advice for leaders and marketers, why authenticity and operational discipline matter more than ever, and what it means to be a cannabis advocate in both boardrooms and local communities.

[AUDIO only] The Corner Office Podcast by AROYA: The Decline of Profitability with Beau Whitney

Greg Dunaway and Beau Whitney discuss the decline in profitability.  If you’re in this business and aren’t waking up to the reality that oversupply is killing your profitability, you are operating on borrowed time. Beau’s data exposes exactly how and why so many are being driven out. If you continue on blindly, you may not survive the next correction. Listen to this podcast right now and make critical adjustments —or join the growing list of failed operators. 00:00 Regulation: Evolving Strategies 03:58 Challenges of Federally Illegal Businesses 08:50 Oregon's Stagnant Market Challenges 12:16 Oversupply Risks for Small Businesses 13:56 Access Limitations 19:28 Federal Reform Needed in State Regulation 21:27 Investment Challenges 24:58 Market Oversupply Challenges 29:20 "National Legalization Stabilizes Market" 31:38 "Discipline and Community in Business" 35:24 Cannabinoid Market Valuation Reevaluation 41:41 Understanding Market Entry Strategies 44:19 Foresight in THC Beverage Trends 46:15 Global Market Analysis & Risk Evaluation We’re on Social Media!  Follow us for everyday cultivation knowledge straight to your feed 📲 Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@AROYA 📲 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aroya.io/ Thank you for tuning into AROYA OFFICE HOURS! 📲Don’t forget to hit subscribe and follow us on Apple Podcasts (so you never miss an episode)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aroya-office-hours-special-edition/id1811861186 📲If you love this show, please leave us a THUMBS UP and share your favorite episodes with friends. We really appreciate your support. Host Links: 📲Greg Dunaway, https://www.instagram.com/gregdunaway/ https://maplecreek.consulting About: Greg Dunaway brings a unique blend of corporate savvy and cannabis industry grit to the mic. After 10 years in PR, marketing, and account management, he took a leap of faith into the cannabis space—leading a startup in Arizona through rapid growth and a successful exit. He then joined Grow Glide as employee #5, helping scale the company 20x, expand internationally, and navigate a high-profile acquisition. Today, Greg is the founder of Cult Cannabis Co., a premium cultivation company based in Arizona. With clients on three continents and a deep network across the industry, he brings an insider perspective, real-world experience, and a passion for meaningful conversations that move the cannabis space forward. Guest Links: 📲 Beau Whitney, https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwhitney/ 📲 Whitney Economics, https://www.whitneyeconomics.com ‘Office Hours’ is an AROYA by Addium Inc. Podcast // 📲 Produced by Chris Ripley, https://www.instagram.com/_mrripleyc_