Guests & Contributors

Rick Bashkoff is currently the CEO of Lit Alerts and the Managing Director of Receptive Capital. A lifetime cannabis enthusiast, Rick has served as a cannabis information resource for his family, friends and broader network for decades. What began as light conversation and cannabis stigmatized jokes at his expense, started to turn into impactful conversations as his friends and family began understanding the benefits of the plant.

Executive Director of the California Cannabis Operators Association (CaCOA), representing 300+ licensees across 125 cities and counties.

A veteran policy advocate with over 30 years of legislative experience, she also leads Precision Advocacy, a Sacramento-based public affairs firm. Amy has played a central role in shaping California’s cannabis laws from Proposition 64 to tax reforms, patient access, on-site consumption, license streamlining, and product safety. S

he’s been featured in Forbes, Politico, and CalMatters, and was named to Capitol Weekly’s Top 100 list of influential policy professionals.

Tiffany Chin is a cannabis executive and brand strategist helping redefine celebrity-driven cannabis culture.

A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton School, Tiffany began her career in actuarial consulting before transitioning into the entertainment and cannabis industries. Today, she plays a pivotal role in Snoop Dogg’s cannabis ventures, overseeing brand operations, product strategy, and the revival of legacy labels like Death Row Records.

Known for her sharp business acumen and creative leadership, Tiffany is also helping usher in a new era of cannabis beverages and culture-forward product innovation on a global stage.

Founder at Rooted for Success

Andrea Baillo is a scientist-turned-leadership coach and the founder of Rooted For Success. With leadership roles spanning craft beer and cannabis R&D—including serving as Chief Scientific Officer at Open Book Extracts and leading R&D at Green Thumb Industries—she now helps executives and organizations thrive in high-pressure, fast-changing environments. Andrea’s coaching centers on clarity, structure, and human connection to drive performance and progress.

Guest Appearance on:

#092 - How Leaders are Failing Themselves and their Teams w/ Andrea Baillo

Andrew Livingston is Director of Economics and Market Analysis at Vicente LLP, where he helps cannabis and hemp businesses navigate regulatory complexities, build revenue models, and shape strategic growth across U.S. and global markets.

A seasoned cannabis economist and policy expert, Andrew began his career with Vicente LLP on Colorado’s landmark Amendment 64 campaign and later chaired Denver’s Cannabis Sustainability Working Group. He is a frequent speaker and media voice on cannabis market dynamics and policy.

Guest Appearance on:

#090 - The Great Reshuffle: Hemp, Alcohol, and the Future of THC Access w/ Andrew Livingston

Chief of Staff at Jardín

Marc is one of the leading advisors to the U.S. cannabis industry and currently serves as Chief of Staff at Jardín and author of the Cannabis Musings newsletter, and is a leading advisor to the U.S. cannabis industry.

A former capital markets lawyer and cannabis practice leader at Reed Smith LLP, Marc has advised top operators, investors, and ancillary businesses across the sector. With deep expertise in cannabis business strategy, capital markets, and regulatory policy, he also teaches cannabis law at Northwestern and UNLV.

Guest Appearance on:

#089 - This Industry Is Overly Optimistic: Cannabis Realism w/ Marc Hauser

Managing Director of TradeWorks at iSee Store Innovations

Melissa Vonder Haar is a leading voice in emerging product categories within mainstream retail, with 15 years of experience spanning the vaping and cannabis industries. As Director of Marketing and Industry Relations at iSEE Store Innovations, she helps shape beverage merchandising solutions for new and emerging brands, particularly in the THC space.

A respected journalist and speaker, Melissa regularly contributes to CSP, NACS, and major industry forums. She also serves on the NACS Convention Content and Foundation Advisory Committees and chairs CSP’s newly formed C-Store Cannabis Board, driving conversations around the future of cannabis in retail.

Guest Appearance on:

#088 - Why C-Stores Could Shape the Future of Cannabis & Hemp Beverages w/ Melissa VonderHaar, Managing Director of iSee TradeWorks

Head of Investor Relations and Business Development at LEEF Brands

Jesse Redmond is the Head of Investor Relations and Business Development at LEEF Brands. A former top cannabis analyst, Jesse previously founded two hedge funds and operated a leading California cannabis collective. He’s a frequent commentator on cannabis investing and hosts the Higher Exchanges podcast with Morgan Paxhia.

Guest Appearance on:

#087 - From Hedge Funds to Hash: Inside Cannabis IR with Jesse Redmond

Co-Founder & President at Hoodie Analytics

Kris Walker is the Co-Founder, President, and Chief Commercial Officer at Hoodie Analytics, where he leads customer acquisition, product strategy, and the delivery of data-driven insights to some of the cannabis industry's top operators. With a career rooted in CPG, retail, and global analytics — including leadership roles at Nielsen and Big Chalk Analytics — Kris brings a wealth of experience in turning data into action. His mission at Hoodie is clear: help brands and retailers make smarter decisions, drive growth, and maximize ROI in one of the most complex consumer landscapes today.

Guest Appearance on:

#085 - 4/20 By The Numbers and Data-Driven Decision Making w/ Kris Walker, President & CCO @ Hoodie Analytics

CEO at Quanta Consulting

Mitchell is a trusted cannabis industry consultant and thought leader with 8+ years of legal cannabis experience. He began his career in brand management at P&G and has worked in a variety of sectors including pharmaceuticals, tech and financial services. Mitchell is a frequent industry commentator in media and events, and publishes the Cannabis Management Review, the Harvard Business Review for weed.  Mitchell received his MBA at the University of Toronto.

Guest Appearance on:

#084 - Less Hype, More Grit: Cannabis Insights with Mitchell Osak, Quanta Consulting

Founder at GRAV

A visionary leader and a staple in the cannabis community, Dave's approach to business blends creativity with strategic acumen. Known for staying behind the scenes yet leading from the front, Dave continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in cannabis.

Guest appearance on:

#083 - From Bongs to Beverages: Leading in Cannabis Through 20 Years of Change w/ Dave Daily, Founder of GRAV

Counsel at Vicente LLP.

A prominent figure in cannabis law, Neil's work spans regulatory challenges, policy advocacy, and industry compliance. His insights have informed policymakers and industry leaders alike, making him a pivotal voice in discussions about cannabis legislation.

Guest apperance on:

#081 - How Will Alcohol Regulations Impact the Future of THC Drinks? w/ Neil Willner, Counsel at Vicente.

Partner at Bengal Capital

Jerry brings a wealth of knowledge from his legal background and his deep dive into cannabis investing. His insights are not just theoretical; they are built on real-world experiences and the gritty realities of navigating a tumultuous industry.

Guest appearance on:

#080 - The Cannabis Industry is in a Knife Fight - Who Survives? w/ Jerry Derevyanny, Partner @ Bengal Capital

Co-Founder & CEO, Hippie Water

Sasha combines her Hollywood charisma with a keen business acumen to promote wellness and empowerment through her cannabis ventures.

Guest appearance on:

#079 - Launching a THC Beverage with Hippie Water ft. CEO, Sasha Pieterse Sheaffer, and CPO, Taylor Eileen Sewell

Co-Founder & Chief Product Officer, Hippie Water

Taylor, the "Beverage Queen," brings her extensive background in food science to revolutionize THC beverages, making Hippie Water a beloved brand for health-conscious consumers.

Guest appearance on:

#079 - Launching a THC Beverage with Hippie Water ft. CEO, Sasha Pieterse Sheaffer, and CPO, Taylor Eileen Sewell

Kate Miller, Co-Founder & CEO, Miss Grass

Kate Miller is the co-founder and CEO of Miss Grass, a brand at the forefront of transforming cannabis culture. Her journey from New Jersey to the West Coast and back again has been marked by bold leadership and a keen eye for market dynamics. Kate’s unique approach to business and her commitment to community, education, and quality have established Miss Grass as a leader in the cannabis industry.

Guest appearance on:

#077 - Multi-State Brand Building with Miss Grass w/ CEO and Co-Founder, Kate Miller

Founder & CEO, Blaze Cannabis Software

Chris is a visionary CEO who has seamlessly blended technology with cannabis retail. From founding a cannabis delivery service to leading a tech-driven revolution in the cannabis industry, Chris brings a wealth of experience and innovation. Under his leadership, Blaze has processed over $1 billion in annual cannabis sales and expanded its footprint to support hundreds of dispensaries across North America.

Guest appearance on:

#076 - High Tech, High Returns: The Evolution of Cannabis Retail w/ Chris Violas, CEO of Blaze

CEO of Humboldt Family Farms

Scott Vasterling is the founder of Humboldt Family Farms, a company that partners with small family growers to bring craft sungrown flower to market. He has a background in corporate leadership with companies like Johnson & Johnson, but his passion lies in supporting the farming community in Humboldt. Scott also serves as Chair of the California DCC Cannabis Advisory Committee, where he advocates for policies that protect legacy cultivators.

Guest appearance on:

#075 - Legacy of Cannabis Cultivation and Bringing Sungrown to Market w/ Scott Vasterling of Humboldt Family Farms

Receiver, Lanes Management Services

With a wealth of experience spanning over 30 years across various industries, Ted Lanes of Lanes Management Services has become a pivotal figure in managing complex receiverships and financial restructurings. His background includes significant roles such as the interim CFO of MedMen and advisory positions in multimillion-dollar funds, making him a respected authority on financial crisis management.

Guest appearance on:

#074 - Understanding Receivership & Bankruptcy in Cannabis & Hemp w/ Ted Lanes

Performance Coach and World Record-Holding Pro Skydiver

Melanie's life mission goes beyond skydiving. She leverages her experiences to coach individuals and teams on achieving their highest potential, making her a sought-after speaker and consultant. With her vibrant energy and profound insights, Melanie inspires audiences to embrace challenges and transform their lives and workplaces.

Guest appearance on:

#073 - Reaching Peak Performance in 2025 w/ Melanie Curtis, Performance Coach and World Record-Holding Pro Skydiver

CEO and Co-Founder of Flyers Cocktail Co.

Not just the CEO of Flyers Cocktail Co., Lewie is a TEDx speaker, avid adventurer, and a visionary in both his professional and personal life. With a background that spans from high-stakes skydiving to high-profile brand activations, Lewie brings a unique blend of excitement and expertise to the cannabis beverage industry.

Guest appearance on:

#072 - Flying High with Hemp Beverages in 2025 w/ Craig 'Lewie' Lewis, CEO of Flyers Cocktail Co.

After leaving active duty in 2011, Socrates turned to cannabis to help him transition to civilian life, a personal journey that inspired him to co-found Jane with his brother. Under his leadership, Jane Technologies, Inc. has become the leading digital provider for the cannabis industry, receiving accolades like Inc. 5000's Fastest-Growing Companies in the Pacific and Deloitte's Technology Fast 500. Focused on mission and innovation, Socrates and his team build tech solutions that prioritize accessibility and quality in cannabis.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/socratesrosenfeld/

Guest appearance on:

#068 - The Future of Cannabis Tech w/ Socrates Rosenfeld, CEO of Jane Technologies

Hirsh Jain, a trailblazer in cannabis, brings unparalleled expertise from his work with Ananda Strategy, advocating for cannabis businesses through his roles with the California Cannabis Chamber of Commerce and NORML in California. With a rich background that spans from Caliva and MedMen to Airbnb and McKinsey & Company, Hirsh's insights into the cannabis market are both deep and broad, offering a comprehensive view of the industry's future.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hirsh-jain/

Guest appearance on:

#067 - Election Recap w/ Returning Guest, Hirsh Jain of Ananda Strategy

#036 - Conservative Cannabis: The Red Wave w/ Hirsh Jain of Ananda Strategy

With a rich background in marketing and strategic leadership across various industries, Joe brings a wealth of experience to his role at Wana Brands. From pioneering marketing initiatives to steering major corporate transitions, Joe's expertise has been pivotal in shaping Wana's market dominance.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joehodas/

Guest appearance on:

#066 - At the Helm of North America's #1 Edibles Brand w/ Joe Hodas, President at Wana Brands

With extensive experience in cannabis beverage marketing and as the current VP of Marketing and Business Development for  SōRSE Technology, Diana is at the forefront of pushing the cannabis beverage segment. As Chair of CABA and also the Cannabis Beverage Association (CBA), her focus is on accessibility, education, and regulatory standards for the industry.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-eberlein/

Guest appearance on:

#065 - Launching the Coalition of Adult Beverage Alternatives w/ Diana Eberlein

With over three decades of experience in corporate finance, Seth has raised over $1 billion and sold 22 businesses, specializing in sectors like biotech, pharmaceuticals, and cannabis. His candid approach and deep industry knowledge make him a sought-after figure for companies aiming to scale and succeed.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-yakatan/

Guest appearance on:

#064 - The Watchful Eye of Seth Yakatan

Cameron Clarke is the Co-founder and CEO of Sunderstorm, the force behind popular cannabis brands like Kanha gummies and Wind vapes. A serial entrepreneur, he has a history of turning technical innovation into impactful solutions. From pioneering the electronic courtroom with Visionary Information Systems to founding Vodium, an early video streaming company, and Aero Glass, an AR tech company for pilots, his ventures span diverse industries. Cameron also founded social initiatives like the Blue Nomad Foundation and Berkeley Biolabs, advancing algae research and synthetic biology. He holds a degree from Stanford University.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-clarke-a626b860/

Guest appearance on:

#063 - CEO Roundtable at Benzinga w/ Sunderstorm, Prelude, Speedwell, Wolf Meyer, & Vertosa

Michael Murphy is the CEO of Prelude, where he drives innovation in the cannabis and wellness sectors. A seasoned entrepreneur, Michael has a track record of leading companies from concept to market success. Before Prelude, he co-founded multiple ventures in the health and technology industries, consistently focusing on sustainable growth and strategic partnerships. His leadership style blends a deep understanding of emerging markets with a passion for creating products that make a positive impact. Michael holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeleduardo/

Guest appearance on:

#063 - CEO Roundtable at Benzinga w/ Sunderstorm, Prelude, Speedwell, Wolf Meyer, & Vertosa

Jeremy is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Cultivated Media, a newsletter bringing you inside the emerging cannabis industry. He was formerly a senior reporter at Insider where he launched the cannabis beat. He's also an MBA student at Columbia Business School.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyberke/

Guest appearance on:

#061 - Cannabis Business News Roundup w/ Guest Co-Host, Jeremy Berke

Ben Meggs brings a wealth of experience from the Oil and Gas sector to the hemp industry, where he has become a pioneer in hemp retail and regulation. As CEO of Bayou City Hemp and Howdy, Ben is at the forefront of the industry’s expansion, driving technical oversight, operations, and ensuring top-quality production. His leadership is guiding his brands to capture the essence of Texas and deliver it to consumers across the country.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmeggs/

Guest appearance on:

#060 - Howdy! The Texas Hemp Takeover w/ Ben Meggs, CEO of Bayou City Hemp, Howdy, 8th Wonder...

Appointed as CEO in 2022, Michael Johnson has rapidly steered Metrc toward innovative horizons. With a rich background as CFO at various technology and health firms, Michael brings a unique perspective to the cannabis compliance sector. His approach is not just about monitoring and regulation but fostering an ecosystem that supports safe, sustainable growth in the industry.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-johnson-41458115/

Guest appearance on:

#059 - Demystifying Metrc and the Multi-Sided Platform Business w/ CEO, Michael Johnson

Tahir's journey in the cannabis industry is both personal and professional. With a history marked by advocacy and a personal narrative intertwined with the criminal justice system, his work extends beyond business, aiming to rectify the long-term impacts of the war on drugs. His leadership roles have equipped him with unique insights into the intersections of policy, social equity, and industry dynamics, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the future of cannabis in New Jersey and beyond.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahirjohnson/

Guest appearance on:

#058 - The First 30 Days After Launch 🚀 w/ Tahir Johnson, CEO of Simply Pure Trenton

Guest

Javier Hasse is not just a reporter but a thought leader in the cannabis space. His book, "𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐎𝐰𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬," has topped Amazon charts, making him a pivotal figure in cannabis entrepreneurship education. As co-founder and CEO of El Planteo, he's at the forefront of Spanish-language cannabis journalism, bridging cultural gaps and bringing vital news to a diverse audience. His work spans across major media outlets, influencing both public perception and policy.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/javierhasse/

Guest appearance on:

#057 - Blunt Banter with Javier Hasse of Benzinga & El Planteo

Aaron Nosbisch is not just the driving force behind BRĒZ; he is a seasoned entrepreneur with a deep passion for the cannabis and hemp industry. His journey from launching a direct-to-consumer clothing line at 13 to steering Brēz’s explosive growth showcases a relentless pursuit of innovation. Through his leadership at Lucyd Media, Aaron has honed an acute expertise in compliant social advertising for Conscious Compounds™ like cannabis, psychedelics, and adaptogens, making him a leading voice in the space.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronnosbisch/

Guest appearance on:

#056 - Building and Rapidly Scaling in Public with Brēz w/ CEO and Founder, Aaron Nosbisch

A native Atlantan and forward-thinking leader, Judson Hill is at the forefront of introducing medical cannabis to Georgia. With a background in fundraising and developing sales organizations across various industries, Judson now focuses on lobbying, government affairs, and educating Georgians about the benefits of medical cannabis. His work is pivotal in shaping a responsible and patient-centered cannabis market in his home state.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/judson-hill-b551a245/

Guest appearance on:

#055 - Devil's Lettuce Went Down to Georgia w/ Judson Hill of Fine Fettle

Jason Ortiz, a cannabis justice advocate, has turned personal adversity into a platform for change. From being arrested at 16 for simple cannabis possession to leading strategic initiatives for the Last Prisoner Project, Jason's journey is a testament to the power of advocacy and determination. His work with the Minority Cannabis Business Association and as a drafter of key legislation in Connecticut showcases his impact on creating equitable cannabis policies.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-ortiz-a5672a236/

Guest appearance on:

#053 - What Kamala Means for Cannabis and Criminal Justice Reform w/ Jason Ortiz of The Last Prisoner Project

Nico Richardson is a seasoned leader and advocate in the cannabis industry, with extensive experience navigating the complex regulatory environments of conservative markets. As CEO of Texas Original, Nico has been at the forefront of efforts to expand patient access to medical cannabis while advocating for sensible cannabis reforms in Texas. His deep understanding of the political and business landscapes makes him a pivotal figure in the ongoing discussions about cannabis policy in the state. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nico-richardson-b6249bb/

Guest appearance on:

#052 - Hemp v. Cannabis is Bigger in Texas w/ Nico Richardson of Texas Original

Amy Deneson is a dynamic leader and a veteran in the fields of advertising, technology, and social impact. As the co-founder of Pheno Collective and the Cannabis Media Council, Amy combines her extensive marketing expertise with a profound commitment to social justice and education in the cannabis industry. Her work is driven by a desire to challenge the status quo and promote inclusive, community-oriented business practices at scale.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amydeneson/

Heather Molloy is the CEO of Speedwell, where she invests in established companies in the legal cannabinoid market and advises select clients. Previously, she led corporate development at TerrAscend Corp., driving U.S. market expansion through strategic acquisitions and capital raises. Heather also founded ulu capital & consulting, guiding cannabis businesses and investors across multiple states since 2014. With a background in capital markets at Swiss Re and leadership roles in finance, she holds an M.B.A. in Finance from NYU Stern and a B.S. from Boston College’s Carroll School of Management.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherquinnmolloy/

Guest appearance on:

#063 - CEO Roundtable at Benzinga w/ Sunderstorm, Prelude, Speedwell, Wolf Meyer, & Vertosa