Grow Sessions

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.

In this episode of Grow Sessions Chris Day and Jill Reddish from the GCNC (Global Cannabis Network Collaborative) join us to share their passion for building a stronger, interconnected cannabis industry around the globe. In an episode titled “Global Perspectives: Building Bridges in the Cannabis Industry,” we discuss the power of collaboration and how the GCNC and its members are working together to help solve challenges faced in global cannabis markets. Join us as we dive into the unique dynamics of cannabis markets around the world—the good, the bad, and the challenging and what we can learn from each other. Today we are reminded that cannabis isn’t new (it’s been around for 3,000 years!) and that what happens in places like Bangkok can ripple across the globe, influencing markets as far away as Peru. In this episode we get a sneak peek into the recent cannabis conference in Peru, exploring South America’s growing cannabis and hemp scene, and share the excitement for the Cannabis Policy Institute in Las Vegas, which aims to assist businesses and regulators in crafting improved industry policies.  With inspiring stories of people, companies, and countries shaping the future of cannabis, Chris and Jill show just how connected and exciting this global industry really is. There’s truly never a dull moment – as we all know!  About Jillian Reddish Jillian Reddish, Co-Founder, Global Cannabis Network Collective (GCNC)  Jill Reddish is the co-founder of Project Evolve and the Global Cannabis Network Collective, an elite network for business professionals building and transforming the international cannabis trade. A writer and award-winning communications strategist, her career spans over a decade of communications in higher education and research-focused non-profits and community development, as well as B2B content marketing for the global cannabis industry. She worked with Marijuana Business Daily on MJBizCon to establish it as the global leader in industry connectivity, resulting in the world's largest B2B cannabis trade show.  Jill launched their global partnership program, two podcasts, and an innovative multimedia site.  If you have questions, you can reach Jill Reddish at jillianr@alwaysdriveinnovation.com [Mailto: jillianr@alwaysdriveinnovation.com] About Chris Day Chris Day, Co-Founder, Global Cannabis Network Collective (GCNC) A people-driven leader, Chris Day is the co-founder of the elite multi-national cannabis industry network for C-Suite executives, the Global Cannabis Network Collective. He is widely recognized as one of the world’s foremost experts on global collaboration, trend identification, and business development through partnership for emerging markets in the cannabis industry.  Chris brings decades of experience in business management and development, building award winning teams and championing global brands through 20+ years of running advertising and communications agencies prior to his entrance into the cannabis industry.  If you have questions, you can reach Chris Day at projectevolve@alwaysdriveinnovation.com [Mailto: projectevolve@alwaysdriveinnovation.com]  Please visit www.gcnc.global [https://www.gcnc.global] to learn more about the Global Cannabis Network Collaborative. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.