Grow Sessions

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 ReddishJillian 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 [email protected] Chris DayChris 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 [email protected] Please visit 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.

Today on Grow Sessions we navigate the complex waters of legal cannabis with a unique perspective with Carl Giannone and Jesse Pitts, Co-Founders of Trade Roots Cannabis in MA. Their journey begins with Jesse's incarceration for cannabis-related offenses—a pivotal moment that would inspire their commitment to transforming the industry through legitimate means. Tune in for an episode titled “Trade Roots: Redefining Cannabis from the Inside Out” as they recount their experiences with your host, Tony Pavlakis.In an industry marked by over-regulation and ongoing change, their transition from the illicit market to legitimate business provides meaningful perspectives on both the hurdles and possibilities that the industry faces.Join us as they share their unique perspective on:Navigating the transition from illegal to legal cannabis operationsBuilding a successful social equity business in a heavily regulated marketBalancing craft quality with commercial successThe future landscape of cannabis industry regulation and complianceTheir vision for Trade Roots and the broader cannabis marketListen as they share how they're charting a course through uncharted waters, helping define the future of legal cannabis in Massachusetts and beyond.About Trade Roots CannabisJesse Pitts, Co-Founder/CEO After graduating from UMASS Amherst with degrees in Astronomy and Physics,  Mr. Pitts continued his business selling cannabis.  A bit ahead of his time, in 2006 he got arrested and served 9 months of an 18-month sentence at the Plymouth County Correctional Facility, where upon his release, he founded and ran a successful construction company.   In 2012 Jesse co-founded The Center for Alternative Life Medicine - a medical cannabis company that was acquired by New England Treatment Access (NETA).  In 2017 Jesse and his partners founded Trade Roots in his hometown of Wareham-- becoming the State’s first adult use, vertically integrated social equity operator.  Jesse serves on the Board of Directors and is the Company’s CEO.  Carl Giannone, Co-Founder After graduating without distinction from Lafayette College with degrees in Economics & Business, Carl began his career as an equities trader at Trillium Management in 1999.  In 2006 Carl started his own desk, first under Sungard and then T3 Capital Management (2010).  By 2014, his desk employed over 100 traders in two offices deploying myriad strategies across a range of asset classes.  In 2017 he joined Jesse in helping found Trade Roots- Massachusetts first vertically integrated social equity operator in the cannabis industry.  Carl serves as the Board’s Chair, and his daily responsibilities include strategy, business development, marketing and brand--specializing in irreverent LNKD content.  If you have questions about Trade Roots, please visit their website at www.traderoots.buzz. You can also connect with Jesse at [email protected] or on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-pitts-4b560199/. If you'd like to connect with Carl, please email him at [email protected] or on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/carlgiannone.For a video version of Grow Sessions, please visit us on the TSRgrow YouTube Channel.     Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

Join us for an exciting new episode of the Grow Sessions, featuring special guest Matthew O'Boyle from VALERE Architects, in an episode titled, "Efficiency by Design: Optimizing Your Grow Room for Maximum Yield." This episode explores the common mistakes and pitfalls that growers should avoid when constructing a cannabis cultivation facility. Matthew highlights the crucial importance of collaborating with an architect who has extensive experience in designing optimized grow operations. While inexperienced design choices may seem cost-effective initially, they often lead to higher expenses in the long run due to underlying issues that need to be addressed.Key insights covered in the episode include:The importance of understanding the operational workflows necessary to maintain a clean and safe environment for the plants throughout the cultivation process.The benefit of not utilizing every square inch of a facility. Leaving some extra space allows for greater flexibility and scalability as the business grows and needs evolve over time.The significant impact an experienced cannabis-focused architect can have on the capital expenses and long-term profitability of the grow operation. Their expertise can help prevent many problems before they even arise.Whether you're just starting to build your first grow facility or looking to enhance an existing operation, this episode is packed with practical, expert-driven advice. Tune in to learn how to design a successful, efficient, and scalable cannabis cultivation facility that will support the long-term success of your business.About Matthew O'Boyle, RA, AIA, CEO + FounderVALERE Architects, Inc.Matthew has been working in the design field professionally since 2009 after completing an Associate's of Architectural Technology from Springfield Technical Community College. He furthered his education at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst by receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture degree in 2012 and then further with a Master of Architecture degree from Hartford University in 2015.He has experience working on projects ranging from: light commercial, restaurant and café space, community focused projects, residential, and multi-family housing.  His work focuses on a technical and efficiency-focused design process believing that it leads to the best solution for a client in the Cannabis Industry.  Matthew has a passion for high performance buildings & construction, making each project as sustainable as possible through material selection and design. If you have questions for Matthew you can reach him at [email protected] or visit the VALERE Architects website at www.valerearchitects.com. You can also connect with him on Linkedin: Matthew O'Boyle. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, we're excited to host Tony Gallo from Sapphire Risk Advisory Group as he delves into essential security procedures and onsite risk assessments, in an episode titled "High Stakes: Security Tips for Cannabis Facilities."Join us as we learn how a tailored security systems can save you money, safeguard your property, and address common issues in your facility. Other topics will include insights on obtaining cannabis licenses, meeting state and city requirements, importance of strategic camera placement, the integration of AI in security and the critical nature of fire safety and risk assessments. Tony emphasizes the value of doing things right the first time to avoid costly mistakes and regulatory setbacks. From air filtration to GMP and GACP certifications, Tony covers the vital aspects of building a compliant and secure cannabis facility.Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your existing operations, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert knowledge. Tune in to learn how to protect your investment and ensure the success of your cannabis business!About Tony GalloConsidered the “OG of Cannabis Security”, Tony has been in the cannabis industry since 2013 and has worked with over 800 cannabis clients in 37 States and Canada designing their security program from application to operations. Tony has spoken at over 100 cannabis business conferences across the United States and is considered one of the leading security authorities in the State/City application license process, physical security build outs and standard security operating procedures. He is regarded as a leader in high-risk security program designing and has helped open more than 1,000 high-risk businesses in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.     For over 30 years, he has been a Senior Executive, possessing both strategic and tactical security experience in the multi-unit retail industry with such companies as Sears, Federated Department Stores and EZCorp. Tony received his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from New Jersey City University in Jersey City, NJ and is a published author on high-risk security and safety planning.    Tony is the Managing Partner for Sapphire Risk Advisory Group, which is considered one of the Top Security Firms in the cannabis industry and was recently awarded Consulting Firm of 2023 at The Emjays. Tony was also recognized by High Times Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Cannabis People in 2021. About Sapphire Risk:Sapphire Risk is the oldest national cannabis security consultancy company in the United States. They specialize in helping clients achieve their dream of winning a cannabis business license, building a secure facility, and implementing security training and SOPs to ensure long-term success. ​No matter the space, they can save cannabis businesses time and money while securing their property.​ Services include Security Plans for Business Licensing; Security Floor Plan Design Overlays; Secure Facility Build Outs; Risk Assessments; Standard Operating Procedures and Manuals; Employee Security Training; Security Expert Witness Services; and POS Exception Analytics If you have questions for Tony you can reach him at [email protected] or visit the Sapphire Risk website at www.sapphirerisk.com.  Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.