Smells Like Business: Recent Episodes
Tom Pettit
Do you want to learn about the current and future state of cannabis in Europe? Then look no further! Tom and his guests have you covered. Each episode ex-budtender (with a rock’n’roll past) and Smells Like Business co-founder Tom Pettit talks to different cannabusinesses, ganjapreneurs and cannabis specialists making it easier for you to enter, and better understand, the European cannabis industry.Theme song by Alex Camp, @campstagram1
In this latest episode of Smells Like Business, our host Tom Pettit is joined by the multifaceted Ngaio Bealum - a cannabis activist, comedian, TV personality, and a prominent figure in the cannabis industry. Ngaio shares his unique journey into the world of cannabis, intertwining humour with activism to challenge the stereotypes and stigmas surrounding cannabis use.
Through a blend of personal anecdotes and insightful commentary, this episode takes you on a journey through Ngaio's cannabis career, highlighting how his comedic talent has been a powerful tool in advocating for cannabis normalisation and legal reform.
Delving deep into cannabis activism, Ngaio shares his past experiences and his current role as the master of ceremonies at the International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC). The conversation also touches on the broader landscape of cannabis legalisation in Europe, drawing lessons from the regulatory paths taken by the United States and Canada.
Ngaio and Tom also explore the impact of media in altering public perception and the ongoing evolution towards a more cannabis-tolerant society. This episode not only celebrates Ngaio's contributions to the cannabis movement but also offers a thoughtful analysis of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the quest for cannabis legalisation and acceptance in Europe.
So whether you're a cannabis professional, enthusiast, advocate, or simply curious about the intersection of comedy and cannabis activism, this episode promises a compelling blend of humour, history, and foresight into the ever-changing cannabis landscape.
SAVE THE DATE - ICBC
Ngiao and Tom will at the ICBC event in Berlin (16-17th of April), so make sure to get your discounted tickets with the following link.
VIPBerlinB2B25
Similar Episodes:S1.E17 - The Importance of Activism in The Cannabis Industry - Mike WiseS1.E26 - Cooking With Cannabis and Other Psychoactive Ingredients - Noah TuckerS1.E69 - What is The ICBC Getting Up To In Slovenia - Alex Rogers
Smells Like Business Links:Website: www.smellslikebusiness
LinkedIn: Smells Like Business
Instagram: @smellslikebusiness
Ngaio Bealum Links:LinkedIn: Ngaio Bealum
Instagram: @ngaio420
ICBC Links:ICBC Website: www.internationalcbc.com
LinkedIn: Internationalcbc
Instagram: @internationoalcbc
Podcast Produced by Tom Pettit
Music Produced by PCG Beats
Music Vocals by Fred Hall
In this latest episode of "Smells Like Business," our host Tom Pettit dives into the heart of Germany's evolving cannabis landscape with Peter Homberg, a distinguished lawyer and partner at Dentons Law Firm, who stands at the forefront of the German Life Sciences Practice.
As Germany moves closer with the introduction of the Can G law, Peter unravels the complexities of this legislation, shedding light on its implications for Germany, and the rest of Europe. From the legislative intricacies to the operational realities of establishing social cannabis clubs, our discussion navigates through the legal, cultural, and economic transformations set to reshape the European cannabis industry.
Join us as we peel back the layers of this fascinating topic, offering an in-depth understanding of what the new Can G law entails, the potential roadblocks from EU institutions, and the nuances of quality control measures. Whether you're an industry insider, a curious observer, or an entrepreneur looking to navigate the shifting tides of the cannabis market, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge and foresight into one of the most significant legal shifts in the cannabis industry to date.
SAVE THE DATE - ICBC
Peter will be a keynote speaker at the upcoming ICBC event in Berlin on the 16th and 17th of April (2024), where he will be discussing all the latest cannabis legislative developments in far greater detail. So make sure to book your tickets if you haven't already. You can use the following link to get 25% discounted tickets!
VIPBerlinB2B25
Similar Episodes:S1.E58 - ICBC: Bringing Cannabis Businesses Together In Europe - Alex Rogers from ICBC
S1.E71 - How Did Switzerland Launch The First Recreational Cannabis Project In Europe? - Pia Meyer and Philipp Hogenbach from Cannavigia
S1.E73 - What Is Going On With Cannabis In Czechia? - Lukas Hurt from Magazine Konopi
Smells Like Business Links:Website - www.smellslikebusiness.com
LinkedIn - Smells Like Business
Instagram - @Smellslikebusiness
LinkedIn - Tom Pettit
Peter Homberg Links:Website - www.dentons.com
LinkedIn - Dentons
LinkedIn - Peter Homberg
Podcast Produced by Tom Pettit
Music Produced by PCG Beats
Music Vocals by Fred Hall
On this episode, Tom chats with Ben Arn, the CEO of the Cannabis Business Company (CB Events). Ben shares his roots in cannabis activism and how that got him into the cannabis industry, as well as what the different CB events have to offer.
They also dive into some of the big topics that will be discussed at the upcoming event, like the changes in cannabis rules in Germany, questions about CBD, and where cannabis laws are heading globally. Tom will be a panelist at the next conference and his panel discussion is sure to be a highlight, alongside names like Carmen Doran from Helius Therapeutics and Ben Stevens from Business of Cannabis.
So if you’re curious to learn more about how the cannabis industry is evolving (especially in Germany and the rest of Europe) then give this episode a listen.
Links:www.smellslikebusiness.com
www.cb-expo.com
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Alex Rogers, the Founder and CEO of the ICBC (International Cannabis Business Conference). The flagship b2b event takes place on the 29th and 30th of June and consists of both an expo and conference section. For more information check the links below.
This episode Aalex and Tom discuss Legacy vs Legal, and how Europe should address this issue. Alex has a great perspective on the topic as he is an American who grew up in the states when the legacy market was booming. He also played a pivotal role in helping activists, such as Jack Herer and Denis Perone, move cannabis policies forward on the West Coast, but he also runs cannabis business events here in Europe. As a result, Alex is in a good position to discuss Legacy vs. Legal, how Europe should tackle this issue, and what we can learn from what the US did right and did wrong.
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Lukas Hurt, who is a chief publisher at Magazine Konopi and Cannabis Therapy Magazine in Czechia, and he is also the manager at CzecHemp. As a result, he has his finger on the pulse when it comes to everything and anything related to cannabis, CBD and hemp in Czechia.
Lukas explains the historical and cultural relationship Czechia has with cannabis, as well as what the current situation looks like. Unfortunately, everything is not moving forward as smoothly as it may seem from the outside, and Lukas explains why. But there is still hope if the current government decides to act fast.
So if you're curious to learn more about the current state of cannabis Czechia and how full legalisation is coming along in the country, then give this episode a listen.
Links:www.smelllslikebusiness.com
www.cannathemag.com
www.czechemp.cz
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Fleta Solomon, the CEO of Little Green Pharma, Australia's leading medical cannabis producer. This Perth-based company is the only producer in Australia with locally-grown products that could pass all the mandatory testing required. Over the last few years, Little Green Pharma has grown significantly, making it "not so little" anymore.
A big topic discussed in this episode is their relatively recent move to Europe, where the company has set up its European base of operations just outside Odense, in Denmark. Tom had the pleasure of visiting the facility in February, which is currently the largest medical cannabis production facility in Europe.
Fleta shares her personal story of how she ended up in the medical cannabis space and how Little Green Pharma grew from humble beginnings in Perth to a global production powerhouse in a relatively short period of time. Fleta also discusses some of the company's growing pains, how the board has implemented ESG practices, and what the future may hold for Little Green Pharma.
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Little Green Pharma - www.littlegreenpharma.com
Related podcast episodes:
61 - Does The Cannabis Industry Need ESG? - Leonid DeWarrrior from DeWarrior Unlimited
65 - Will Denmark Be The Medical Cannabis Hub of Europe? - Lone Knudsen Krogsbøll
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Pia Meyer and Phillipp Hagenbach from Cannavigia. Pia is the product manager and Philipp the COO of Cannavigia, a Swiss company that creates compliance software solutions for the cannabis industry, with a strong focus on track and traceability.
If you want to learn more about the company then give Episode 51 of Smells Like Business a listen, where Tom interviewed Luc Richner (the CEO of Cannavigia).
This episode, however, we focus the discussion around the Swiss pilot program called WEEDCARE. The pilot program is the first recreational cannabis pilot program in Europe and started in Basel on the 30th of January this year (2023). Cannavigia is working closely with the Swiss government by providing the software for the pilot program.
Pia and Philipp are the two responsible for making this happen so give this episode a listen if you want to find out more about Europe's first recreational cannabis pilot program and how Cannavigia got involved.
Links:
www.smellslikebusiness.com
www.cannavigia.com
LinkedIn - Smells Like Business
LinkedIn - Cannavigia
Related Episodes:
51 - Transparency and Traceability in the European Cannabis Industry - Luc Richner from Cannavigia
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Xavier G. who is the Head of EU Sales for Klonetics, a Canadian licensed cannabis nursery offering ready-to-flower clones and having the largest breeder-backed global catalog in the industry.
Xavier explains the benefits of using clones, the complicated science behind them, and how Klonetics is working with some of the best breeders in the world. The company has also recently partnered up with a Portuguese cannabis production facility to provide more clones to the growing European medical cannabis market.
So if you want to learn more about clones and legacy breeders this is the episode for you.
Links:
www.klonetics.com
Instagram - Klonetics
LinkedIn - Klonetics
www.smellslikebusiness.com
Instagram - Smells Like Business
LinkedIn - Smells Like Business
Related Podcast Episodes:#68 - Discovering “Cannatonic” and the Modern Origins of the CBD Movement
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Alex Rogers, the founder and CEO of The ICBC (the International Cannabis Business Conference) which organises B2B cannabis events in Europe.
The ICBC flagship event is in Berlin every summer and if you want to learn more about that you can listen to episode 58 of smells like business, where Alex and Tom discuss the event in great detail. Alex also shares his personal and professional story into the cannabis space.
This episode focuses on the partnership ICBC has with Spannabis (the largest B2C cannabis event in Europe), which happens takes place in Barcelona.
However, the main portion of this episode is based around why Alex has moved to Slovenia, what he’s getting up to there, with ICBC and otherwise, as well as what Slovenia’s current attitude towards cannabis looks like and how Alex is trying to push legislation forward there.
Links:
www.smellslikebusiness.com
www.internationalcbc.com
Article - "Europe's Most Cannabis-Friendly Country"
On this episode Tom is having a chat Xavier G, who is the managing director for Resin Seeds, a Spanish Seed bank that specialises in CBD rich genetics. Xavier is also the Head of EU sales for Klonetics, a Canadian nursery cultivar, offering ready-to-flower clones and having the largest breeder-backed global catalog in the industry.
But we’re going to save Klonetics for another episode. On this episode it's all about Resin Seeds, and how Xavier developed his cannabis career over the last 20 years, after having moved to Barcelona.
Fun fact, Resin Seeds created "Cannatonic", one of the first CBD-rich strains to hit the market. Since then, the company has been working hard at creating more CBD-rich genetics to help supply the growing demand.
Links:
www.smellslikebusiness.com
www.resinseeds.net
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Gilberto Cannarozzi, a multidisciplinary artist. about tattoos and cannabis. Gilberto and his good friend Samuele Salvadori, a tattoo artist who goes by the name of Sam Boy, have created a book called 'Stay Stoned'.
The book has a variety of cannabis themed tattoo flash and illustrations, all designed by different tattoo artists from around the world. Gilberto shares how they came up with the idea of bringing these two subcultures together, and how they ended up collaborating with the Hash, Marijuana and Hemp Museum in Amsterdam.
So if you're into tattoos and weed, then 'Stay Stoned' might be just for you.
Links:www.smellslikebusiness.com
www.staystonedpress.com
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with you! Tom summarises some of the important developments that have happened in 2022 regarding cannabis in Europe. He discusses what steps different European countries have taken towards legalisation, both medically and recreationally.
With so many exciting developments having occurred this past year, Tom has a lot to discuss. But one thing is for sure, the future of cannabis in Europe looks very bright!
So if you’re curious to have a 2022 recap of cannabis in Europe, this episode is just for you.
Topics discussed:
- How many people in Europe have access to medical cannabis?
- Is it difficult getting a medical cannabis prescription in Europe?
- Why is it so hard to get a medical cannabis prescription in the UK?
- How is Germany moving along with full cannabis legalisation?
- What is the new EU drug policy?
- Is Czechia legalising cannabis?
- Will Czechia legalise cannabis for adult use before Germany?
- Is Denmark the medical cannabis hub of Europe?
- Is Juicy Fields the largest scam in the cannabis industry?
- What is Dispenseroo?
- How is France supporting the French hemp industry?
- Is Ireland decriminalising marijuana?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Related podcast episodes:
31 - What is Cancard? - Carly Barton from Cancard
48 - For A Free Cannabis Market In France - Daniel Kaddik from ELF
60 - JuicyFields: The World's Biggest Cannabis Scam Explained - Ben Stevens from BusinessCann
65 - Will Denmark Be The Medical Cannabis Hub of Europe? - Lone Knudsen Krogsbøll
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Lone Knudsen Krogsbøll, an Investment Manager for the city of Odense. The conversation took place at the Symposium for Medical Cannabis in Copenhagen, where academics, doctors and businesses converged to discuss, network and learn more about where this industry is heading in Denmark.
Lone shares how Odense is going the extra mile and taking all the necessary steps to ensure that Fyn, the island it sits on, becomes the centre of medical cannabis in Denmark (if not all of Europe). By investing in lab-testing facilities that can provide EU-GMP certification and greenhouses retrofitted for medical cannabis production, the country is attracting both big companies and startups. QNTM Labs, Aurora Nordic, and Little Green Pharma are just some of the companies that have recently set up operations on Fyn.
Lone explains how Denmark promotes collaboration between the private and public sectors and how this brings new and much-needed innovations to the medical cannabis industry. Universities and other educational facilities are also partnering up with companies to help find new medical cannabis solutions.
So if you’re interested in discovering this little country’s big plans for the medical cannabis industry here in Europe, then this episode is for you.
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
City of Odense - www.investinodense.dk
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/loneaaknudsen/
Related podcast episodes:
31 - What is Cancard? - Carly Barton from Cancard
35 - Medical Cannabis in Denmark - Dr. Julie Moltke from Clinic Horsted
43 - Bringing Danish Design to Cannabis Consumers - Simon Villum Folmann from HØJ
54 - TechforCann Accelerator: How to Get Your Cannabis Startup Into the Program - Lilac Mandeles
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Sergiy Kovalenkov. He is the Founder and CEO of Hempire, an award-winning company dedicated to bringing hemp-building innovations into the construction industry. The company was founded in 2015 in Ukraine, but they now have offices in Ukraine, Poland, and the USA. Hempire has worked on projects in over 20 different countries.
Sergiy shares how he stumbled upon hemp and its use in construction and why he started his company, Hempire. He also talks about the difficulties of bringing hemp into the mainstream of the construction industry and what it’s been like to run a company in a war-torn country.
So if you’re interested in construction, love hemp and maybe want to build a house with it one day, this is the episode for you.
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Hempire - www.hempire.tech
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/hempireint/
Related podcast episodes:
16 - Life of a Swedish Hemp Farmer - John Hedström from Hooly Hemp
23 - Photographing Hemp Projects Around the World - Maren Krings
53 - Caring With Cannabis and Helping With Hemp - Simon Blackwell
On this episode Tom is having a chat with the late Frenchy Cannoli, who was a master hashishin. By sharing his life story and cannabis experiences, Frenchy explains why hash played such an important role in his life. He also gives tips on what you can do to stay relevant in the cannabis industry and have an upper hand over the cannabis industry giants.
Other topics discussed:
- What is the difference between hash-making in India and in the Middle East?
- Why is the process of making hand-rubbed hash so magical?
- How did the Frenchy Cannoli Brand come to life?
- How did Frenchy manage to gain access to the Emerald Triangle?
- Why is the Emerald Triangle so special?
- What is the purpose of Frenchy’s “Lost Art of the Hashishin” workshops?
- How to make apparition work in the cannabis world?
- Can Northern California become the Bordeaux of cannabis?
- How important is tradition in hash making?
- How is science helping Frenchy?
- What will the cannabis industry look like when Europe legalizes?
- How can you make yourself relevant in the cannabis industry?
Links:
- Frenchy Cannoli - www.frenchycannoli.com
- Frenchy Dreams of Hashish (Documentary) - www.frenchydreamsofhashish.com
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frenchycannoli/?hl=en
- Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgeIHacD5YcF8DISyGrDr6g
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frenchy-cannoli-146175118/
Similar Episodes:#17 - The Importance of Activism in The Cannabis Industry - Mike Wise
26 - Cooking With Cannabis and Other Psychoactive Ingredients - Noah Tucker from High Cuisine
42 - What Does a Ganjier Course Look Like? - Max Simon from Green Flower
On this episode Tom is having a chat with the late Frenchy Cannoli, who was a master hashishin. By sharing his life story and cannabis experiences, Frenchy explains why hash played such an important role in his life. He also gives tips on what you can do to stay relevant in the cannabis industry and have an upper hand over the cannabis industry giants.
Other topics discussed:
- What is the difference between hash-making in India and in the Middle East?
- Why is the process of making hand-rubbed hash so magical?
- How did the Frenchy Cannoli Brand come to life?
- How did Frenchy manage to gain access to the Emerald Triangle?
- Why is the Emerald Triangle so special?
- What is the purpose of Frenchy’s “Lost Art of the Hashishin” workshops?
- How to make apparition work in the cannabis world?
- Can Northern California become the Bordeaux of cannabis?
- How important is tradition in hash making?
- How is science helping Frenchy?
- What will the cannabis industry look like when Europe legalizes?
- How can you make yourself relevant in the cannabis industry?
Links:
- Frenchy Cannoli - www.frenchycannoli.com
- Frenchy Dreams of Hashish (Documentary) - www.frenchydreamsofhashish.com
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frenchycannoli/?hl=en
- Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgeIHacD5YcF8DISyGrDr6g
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frenchy-cannoli-146175118/
Similar Episodes:#17 - The Importance of Activism in The Cannabis Industry - Mike Wise
26 - Cooking With Cannabis and Other Psychoactive Ingredients - Noah Tucker from High Cuisine
42 - What Does a Ganjier Course Look Like? - Max Simon from Green Flower
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Brian Hart. He is a financial and business specialist in the cannabis industry and has a consulting firm called The Hart Group. Brian is also a project manager at Canna Advisors, a cannabis business consulting firm that has been leading the cannabis industry in the US since 2013 and is one of the industry’s most recognised and trusted consultancies. They help guide entrepreneurs and startups trying to enter the cannabis industry, as well as existing companies trying to expand and grow their businesses.
Brian grew up in the states and is half American and half German. He did his masters in Germany and wrote his thesis on how the German cannabis industry might develop in comparison to the US, using different models.
We discuss a whole range of topics regarding the cannabis industry. But, the overarching theme is the comparison between the current cannabis market in the US and the up-and-coming cannabis market in Germany.
Brian, being both American and German, is in the unique position of understanding the society, the culture, and the situation in both places in regard to cannabis, as well as their pros and cons and what the future of cannabis in Germany might look like.
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Canna Advisors - www.thinkcanna.com
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/brian-hart-23754914/
Related podcast episodes:
45 - Will Germany Legalise Cannabis in 2022? - Marguerite Arnold
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Leonid Kotlyar. He is the Founder and President of DéWarrior Unlimited, a seed-to-IPO management consulting firm dedicated to the cannabis (and hemp) industry. He leads a team of strategy and management advisors focusing on creating a sustainable and regenerative cannabis industry.
The main topic of this episode is ESG and how the cannabis industry can benefit from it. ESG (an acronym for Environmental, Social, and Governance) is becoming ever more critical in all types of industries. So why should the cannabis industry be any different? Fortunately, some companies, such as DéWarrior Unlimited, promote sustainable and regenerative business practices. And they are doing great things in the cannabis and hemp space. By being intensely data-driven and using their proprietary methodology, Leonid and his team can drive advanced ESG+ compliance and recognition for all types of engagements.
So if you’re interested in learning how the cannabis industry can benefit from ESG or how to integrate more sustainable business practices into your business to help generate more profit, then give this episode a listen.
On this episode, Tom shares his thoughts on the ICBC (International Cannabis Business Conference) and HamCan, two b2b cannabis events taking place in Berlin and Hamburg, respectively. Smells Like Business had the pleasure of being a media partner for both. Unfortunately, due to Covid, Tom could not attend HamCan but got feedback from others in the cannabis community who did attend and from Lenny Roots (the founder himself).
Fortunately, Tom recovered in time for the ICBC in Berlin, the largest b2b cannabis event in Europe and one of the largest in the world. He explains what it’s like to attend such events, what you can expect to get out of them, and (ultimately) if it is worth spending the money to participate. The short answer is, yes, it most certainly is. But, come prepared and try to set up as many meetings beforehand as possible. If you want to hear the long answer, then listen to the episode.
Other topics discussed:
- What were the conferences like at ICBC?
- How prepared should you be for a cannabis conference?
- Is it worth attending other events and parties that are organised around ICBC?
- Are cannabis events great for networking?
- Is there a big difference between b2b and b2c events?
- Was this the first edition of HamCan?
- Does the ICBC have an expo?
- Who is Ben Dronkers?
- Who is Frenchy Cannoli?
- What is Ispire?
- Who is Marguerite Arnold?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
HamCan LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/hamcan/
ICBC LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/internationalcbc/
Related podcast episodes:
58 - ICBC: Bringing Cannabis Businesses Together In Europe - Alex Rogers
56 - HamCan: The First Cannabis Conference in Hamburg - Lenny Roots
04 - The Story of Frenchy Cannoli - Frenchy Cannoli
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Alex Rogers, the CEO and owner of the ICBC - International Cannabis Business Conference. The ICBC produces the largest cannabis B2B event in Europe and is attended by cannabis executives, entrepreneurs and policymakers from over 80 different countries, who are looking for world-class networking and investment opportunities. Alex explains what is on the ICBC agenda and what you can expect to gain as an attendee.
Alex also shares some stories from his colourful cannabis past where he was at the forefront of the cannabis movement in the US, sharing ideas and working with Jack Herer, Denis Peron and many more.
So if you’re in the cannabis industry (or looking to enter it) and want to learn more about how the European cannabis industry is developing, then this episode is definitely for you!
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
ICBC - www.internationalcbc.com
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/internationalcbc/
Instagram - @internationalcbc
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Elana Goldberg who is the CEO of The Cannigma, an online media based in Israel. The Cannigma takes an evidence-based approach at answering all cannabis and cannabis related questions. The topics range from cannabis 101’s like how to roll a joint and how to cook with cannabis, to more in-depth scientific topics such as cannabis and cognition and CBD and superbugs, and everything in between.
Elana shares her story of how she moved from the world of journalism to cannabis and how she transferred the skills and knowledge she learnt along the way and applied them to the cannabis industry, and more specifically The Cannigma. Tom and Elana also discuss the importance of good cannabis education, and its role in helping move cannabis legislation and the industry (as a whole) in the right direction.
So if you feel like being educated on the importance of education in the cannabis space, then this episode is definitely for you!
Other topics discussed:
- Why was The Cannigma created in the first place?
- Who are the founders of The Cannigma?
- How does creating content help bring online audiences together?
- What is digital content and digital journalism?
- Why is journalism so fast paced in the digital age?
- How difficult is it to find credible information on cannabis online?
- Why are so many new cannabis markets opening up? (Maybe)
- What was it like working for the Jerusalem Post?
- How did the pandemic affect the company?
- What range of cannabis topics does The Cannigma cover?
- How many users does The Cannigma website have?
- What is the business model of the company?
- Why is it so difficult for cannabis companies to promote their products?
- How important is it to be creative with so many cannabis marketing restrictions?
- Who is part of The Cannigma team?
- How do you manage a global team of employees?
- Who is Codi Pedersen?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
The Cannigma - www.cannigma.com\
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/thecannigma/
Facebook - www.facebook.com/thecannigma
Instagram - @thecannigma
Related podcast episodes:
#42 - What Does a Ganjier Course Look Like? - Max Simon from Green Flower#55 - Leafwire: The B2B Network for the Cannabis and Hemp Industry - Peter Vogel
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Lenny Roots, the Founder of (and mastermind behind) HamCan, Hamburg’s first and only cannabis conference and expo. HamCan will have its inaugural edition this summer, and Lennart shares why he decided to create a cannabis event in Hamburg and how he is managing to bring it all together. Lennart also shares how he initially got into event management, which is quite the tale in itself. All we will say is that it involved living in Jamaica and managing some pretty epic Reggae artists.
HamCan takes place on the 9th and 10th of July in Hamburg and will consist of an expo and a conference. The expo part of HamCan will be free for everyone and will have different exhibitors and lots of entertainment. The conference will have many interesting speakers from Germany, Europe and the US who are experts in various sectors of the cannabis industry. If you’re interested in learning more about the German cannabis industry and would like to make some b2b connections, then make sure to check out HamCan’s website to learn more.
Other topics discussed:
- How much work does it take to create a cannabis event?
- How important is it to have a solid team behind you?
- Why is Hamburg a good city for a cannabis event?
- Who will be speaking at the HamCan conference?
- What can attendees expect to gain from HamCan?
- How is Germany moving forward with cannabis legalisation?
- What was it like living in Jamaica and working with Reggae artists?
- How can HamCan help move the cannabis industry forward in Germany?
- Will there be international speakers?
- How easy or difficult is it to book speakers for a cannabis event?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
HamCan - www.hamcan.de
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/hamcan/
Facebook - www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078781396721
Instagram - @hamcan_germany
Related podcast episodes:#23 - Photographing Hemp Projects Around The World - Maren Krings#03 - How To Start a Cannabis Expo in Europe - Kevin Rebelo Lopes
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Peter Vogel, the CEO of Leafwire, which is the world’s largest cannabis and hemp b2b networking platform. As you might be aware, posting, advertising, promoting, and even referring to cannabis or anything cannabis-related on social media can be difficult or is simply just not possible. Even LinkedIn (which tends to be more cannabis-friendly) has its restrictions, which is also discussed in this episode. Peter explains how Leafwire works, the different functions and features it has to offer, how it differentiates itself from other platforms (such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, etc.), and how it caters for the cannabis and hemp industries. He also discusses why the cannabis industry needs its own networking platform and what kind of people and businesses are using Leafwire.
Peter also shares his own story of how he got into the cannabis space and how he believes the industry should enter and move forward in Europe. So if you’re in the cannabis or hemp industry and looking to network, then we highly recommend you go and create an account on Leafwire. If you’re not convinced just yet, then for sure you will be by the end of the episode!
Other topics discussed:
- How important is business networking in the cannabis industry?
- How difficult is it to advertise cannabis products and services only?
- How cannabis friendly are different social media?
- What does the process of creating a networking platform look like?
- Does the cannabis industry lack job portals?
- How is the psychedelics industry progressing in the US?
- Why is Leafwire specifically a business network?
- What topics and content are discussed on Leafwire?
- How many users are there on the platform?
- Why is it becoming difficult to advertise cannabis businesses on LinkedIn?
- How does Leafwire acquire new users?
- How to attract Investors?
- What is Leafwire’s business model?
- What are some of the new features?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Leafwire - www.leafwire.com
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/leafwire/
Instagram - @Leafwire
Peter Vogel on Leafwire
Tom Pettit on Leafwire
Peter Vogel on LinkedIn
Tom Pettit on LinkedIn
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Lilac Mandeles, the Co-Founder and CEO of TechforCann. This European, Malta-based company identifies and accelerates IP and tech start-ups in the medical cannabis industry. Lilac talks about her move from the pharmaceutical sector, where she worked for the big players like Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly and Teva Pharmaceuticals, to the medical cannabis industry.
She also shares her thoughts on the current state of innovation within the medical cannabis industry in Europe and the growth potential within it. Lilac also explains what the accelerator programme is and what early-stage start-ups can gain from joining it. And there is plenty to gain - from the necessary administrative and business development support to a significant grant and guidance through the first funding rounds. TechforCann is looking for new and promising medical cannabis start-ups, and admissions are now open. Is your start-up the right fit? Listen to the episode and find out what you can do to join this exciting and potentially life-changing program!
Other topics discussed:
- Lilac’s meeting with professor Raphael Mechoulammove - the first chemist to discover THC.
- Who is the team behind TechforCann?
- What is the difference between an incubator and an accelerator?
- How long does an accelerator program last?
- How to qualify for TechforCann?
- Are there any funds for innovative cannabis companies available in Malta?
- What is Malta Enterprise?
- How much funding does TechforCann offer?
- What support does TechforCann provide to the start-ups that get accepted?
- Is Europe going to legalise cannabis in the next 5 years?
- How can investors get involved?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
TechforCann - www.techforcanneurope.com
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/techforcanneurope/
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Simon Blackwell, who is the Co-Founder of Organic Bio Solutions Ltd. Simon’s path to cannabis was not an easy one. His son, Derren, was diagnosed with Leukaemia at a young age, and the family had exhausted all traditional medical possibilities without much success. It was not until they resorted to cannabis that the whole situation around and Derren’s health started to improve. He is now a healthy young and independent adult.
Having seen what cannabis did for his son, Simon is now on a new mission to bring hemp to the masses in the UK. He hopes to modernise the hemp industry by teaming up with Robert Ziner, the Founder and CEO of the Canadian Industrial Hemp Corporation (CIHC). Robert is the inventor and creator of the AI Decorticator, which is also referred to as the Smart stalk system. This system aims to make hemp farmers' lives a lot easier and more profitable by bringing AI into the processing of hemp, by increasing production and efficiency and decreasing margins of error.
Simon is based up in Norfolk, UK, and his aim is to make this area, which is ideal for agriculture, the new British hub for hemp.
Other topics discussed:
- Can cannabis help Leukaemia patients?
- Should cannabis be used more in the NHS (British healthcare system)?
- Who are Bud Buddies?
- How important are cannabis communities for patients?
- What was it like working in a lab for CBD Brothers?
- What is the British Hemp Alliance?
- What is a decorticator?
- How does an AI decorticator work?
- Are hemp farmers in the UK interested in such technology?
- How can cryptocurrency help crowdfund a cannabis company?
- Does the hemp industry have a future in the UK?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Canadian Industrial Hemp Corporation - www.cihcorp.com
Related podcast episodes:
16 - Life of a European Hemp Farmer - John Hedström from Hooly Hemp
17 - The Importance of Activism in The Cannabis Industry - Mike Wise
23 - Photographing Hemp Projects Around The World - Maren Krings
36 - Hemp and Medical Cannabis in Portugal - Humberto J. Nogueira
On this episode, Tom talks about his experience at Spannabis 2022, which is the largest cannabis event in Europe. Tom shares why he went to the event, what he got out of Spannabis, what some of the pros and cons were, and why you should consider going there either as an attendee or business.
Not only does Tom share his experience and thoughts on Spannabis but so do a few other guests. Tim from Paradise Seeds shares his own experience of how the event was this year and why Paradise Seeds were there. Axel Besselink and Wielly Hendriks from Cinqo.8 also discuss what Spannabis had to offer. Two previous Smells Like Business guests, Simon Villum Folmann from HØJ and Luc Richner from Cannavigia, both also share their insights of the event.
So if you’re curious about going to Spannabis or would just like to know what it’s like, especially from the business perspective, then this is the episode for you!
Other topics discussed:
- What is Spannabis?
- Where is Spannabis located?
- Why is Spannabis such a good cannabis event?
- What is ICBC?
- What is Paradise Seeds?
- What is Cinqo8?
- What is HØJ?
- What is Cannavigia?
Links:
Smells Like Business - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Paradise Seeds - www.paradise-seeds.com
Cinqo.8 Distribution - www.cinqo8.com
HØJ - www.hoj.life
Cannavigia - www.cannavigia.com
Related podcast episodes:
43 - Bringing Danish Design to Cannabis Consumers - Simon from HØJ
51 - Transparency and Traceability in the European Cannabis Industry - Luc from Cannavigia
On this episode, Tom is having a chat withLuc Richner, who is the Founder and CEO at Cannavigia. The company, which is based in Switzerland, creates compliance software for the emerging European cannabis industry, allowing for efficiency, transparency and traceability throughout the entire supply chain.
Luc, who is from Switzerland originally and has a background in supply chain management, shares his story of how and why he created Cannavigia, explains how the compliance software works and how different cannabis companies can benefit from the software. He also shares his thoughts and insights as to why and how the cannabis industry can benefit and prosper from having more transparency and traceability.
Cannavigia has also recently managed to strike a deal with the Swiss Government, and Luc shares how that deal came to fruition, what that it actually entails, as well as what’s going on in Switzerland in regards to cannabis and cannabis reform.
Other topics discussed:
- When was Cannavigia founded?
- What are GMP and GDP for the cannabis industry?
- Does the cannabis industry need better supply chain management?
- Why is the legal framework for the cannabis industry so fragmented?
- How important is it to have full traceability from seed to sale?
- Could the European cannabis industry benefit from unified EU standards?
- What is the cannabis pilot program in Switzerland?
- Can the cannabis industry learn from pharmaceutical standards?
- What are the benefits of using cannabis compliance software?
- What is IG Hanf?
Links:
Website - www.cannavigia.com
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/cannavigia/
Related podcast episodes:
1 - How to Build a More Sustainable Cannabis Industry - Joe Olivier
39 - Creating Unified Standards for the Cannabis Industry - Brett Puffenbarger
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Chris Chiari, who is the Founder and CEO at 420 Hotels Inc. He is also the proud owner of The Patterson Inn, a 4 star boutique hotel located in a beautiful 19th century Victorian building in Capitol Hill in Denver, Colorado.
Chris was the first applicant to apply for Denver’s new hospitality license, allowing him to establish a cannabis consumption lounge on his property. He explains what the process looks like, how the project is coming along, what his vision is for 420 Hotels Inc., as well as what the future cannabis tourism might look like.
Chris is also an award winning producer, having produced Public Enemy Number One, alongside director/producer Robert Rippberger, and executive producer Ice-T (yes you heard that right). Public Enemy Number One is a documentary film that explores the devastating effects the war on drugs has had on the United States. So give it a watch if you get the chance!
Other topics discussed:
- What is cannabis hospitality?
- What is a cannabis consumption lounge?
- Why are there so few cannabis consumption lounges?
- What’s the best way to combine boutique hospitality with licensed cannabis hospitality?
- Who will be the guests of 420 Hotels Inc.?
- Will the Patterson Inn be the first hotel to have a cannabis consumption lounge in the US?
- What does the future of cannabis tourism look like in Europe?
- Who are the cannacurious?
- How does Amsterdam differ from the US when it comes to cannabis tourism?
- What is Barney’s Uptown?
- Should cannabis be regulated like alcohol?
- Why is it still difficult to get financing and insurance in the cannabis industry?
Links:
www.the420Hotels.com
www.PattersonInn.com
www.penofilm.com
Related podcast episodes:
33 - The Future of Cannabis Tourism - Laura Hand
On this episode Tom talks about five interesting and quite different developments happening around cannabis and the cannabis industry.
The five topics discussed:
- Snoop Dogg invests $15M into a German cannabis company called Cansativa
- The NFL is donating $1M into cannabis research
- Was hemp used in the winter olympics this year?
- Are Nike making shoes entirely from hemp?
- Lego plans to make 100% sustainable Lego bricks by 2030
Links:
website - www.smellslikebusiness.com
Related Podcast Episodes:
45 - Will Germany Legalise Cannabis in 2022? - with Marguerite Arnold
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Daniel Kaddik, who is the Executive Director of ELF, the European Liberal Forum which is the liberal foundation and think-tank of the European Liberal Party, working with 47 member organisations across Europe bringing new ideas into the political debate.
The ELF have translated a report into English called “For a free cannabis market in France: Fight the black market, protect consumers”. The report, which was originally written in French by Kevin Brookes and Édouard Hesse from GenerationLibre, aims to show how having a free cannabis market in France can potentially alleviate (or at least decrease) the black market, generate profit through the taxation of cannabis, and help with drug prevention.
Tom and Daniel also discuss how the findings of this report might also shed some light on how Europe should move forward with cannabis legalisation, and consider a free market approach.
Links:
Website - www.liberalforum.eu
Facebook - www.facebook.com/europeanliberalforum/
Related Podcast Episodes:#45 - Will Germany Legalise Cannabis in 2022? - with Marguerite Arnold
On this episode,Tom continues his conversation withMarguerite Arnold, a cannabis journalist, author, entrepreneur, activist, and patient living in Frankfurt, Germany. She writes as a freelance journalist forHigh Times Magazine,Dope Magazine, theCannabis Industry Journaland more, covering many aspects of the cannabis industry. Marguerite shares her knowledge and insights on the latest developments involving cannabis reform in Europe.
On episode 45, Marguerite explains how cannabis legalisation in Germany is moving forward and how it will likely play out over the next few years. On this episode, however, she talks about what effect this might have on the rest of Europe and how other European countries are moving forward with their own cannabis legislation, such as Luxembourg, Switzerland, Malta and Spain.
Other topics discussed:
- What lessons can the European cannabis market learn from North America?
- Do American and Canadian companies want to enter the European cannabis market?
- How is Spain moving forward with cannabis legalisation?
- Who is Albert Tió, and why has he been sentenced to prison?
- How is Luxembourg going to legalise cannabis?
- Will Luxembourg only allow the sale of seeds?
- How is Malta going to legalise cannabis?
- Are Luxembourg and Malta approaching cannabis legalisation in the same way?
- Why is Switzerland approaching cannabis legalisation differently from other European countries?
- Is North Macedonia legalising cannabis?
Links:
Website - https://cannabis101.de/
Medium - https://margueritearnold.medium.com
High Times - https://hightimes.com/author/margueritearnold/
Cannabis Tech - https://www.cannabistech.com/author/marguerite-arnold/
Related podcast episodes:
45 - Will Germany Legalise Cannabis in 2022? - with Marguerite Arnold
46 - How Was 2021 For Cannabis in Europe
21 - How Was 2020 for Cannabis and CBD in 2020?
On this episode Tom is having a chat with You! Tom gives a summary of some of the important European cannabis developments that happened in 2021. He discusses many things, with a focus on what steps have been made towards the legalisation of cannabis in some of the different countries in Europe. It is a pleasure to say that, even though a lot of us have struggled during these Covid times over the past two years, cannabis has actually had a very good 2021!
The future of cannabis in Europe looks very bright!
Other topics discussed:
- Why is Malta legalising cannabis use?
- Is Malta the first country in Europe to legalise cannabis?
- How many cannabis plants will I be able to grow in Malta?
- Will there be social cannabis clubs in Malta?
- Is Luxembourg legalising cannabis?
- Will the sale of cannabis seeds be legal in Luxembourg?
- How will Germany approach cannabis legalisation?
- What implications can Germany’s cannabis reform have on the rest of Europe?
- Will there be a cannabis referendum in Italy this year?
- What is Hempzon?
- How has 2021 been for Smells Like Business?
- Frenchy Cannoli: A hash legend
Links:Smells Like Business LinkedIn PageInstagram @smellslikebusinessSmells Like Business Website
Related podcast episodes:
#45 - Will Germany Legalise Cannabis in 2022? - with Marguerite Arnold
#21 - How Was 2020 for Cannabis and CBD in 2020?
#03 - How to Start a Cannabis Expo in Europe - Kevin Rebelo Lopes from Hempzon
On this episode, Tom is talking with Marguerite Arnold. Marguerite is a Cannabis Journalist who uprooted her life in America to move to Germany, where she currently resides. She is the author of “Green II: Spreading Like Kudzu”, where she shares her take on the cannabis reforms spreading through the world.
Her vast knowledge of cannabis comes both from working in the industry and being a medical cannabis patient. In her conversation with Tom, she sheds some light on the current legal changes in Europe, with a particular focus on Germany - one of the leaders in the race to implement a highly regulated cannabis market in Europe.
Other topics discussed:
- What role does Germany play in the legalisation of cannabis in Europe?
- What was the German approach to cannabis in the last decade?
- Are there any German companies producing medical cannabis?
- Will any German Grow-shop sell cannabis when it becomes legal in Germany?
- Will cannabis reform really happen?
- What other countries should we keep an eye on regarding the legalisation of cannabis in Europe?
- How does the German government feel about smoking cannabis?
- What happens next?
- What about recreational cannabis?
Links:
Website - https://cannabis101.de/
Medium - https://margueritearnold.medium.com
High Times - https://hightimes.com/author/margueritearnold/
Cannabis Tech - https://www.cannabistech.com/author/marguerite-arnold/
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Dr. Jokūbas Žiburkus, who is a neuroscientist, innovator, speaker, entrepreneur, and an expert in neurological disorders, the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoids. The last time Dr. Jokūbas Žiburkus was on the show was on episode 9, where Dispensaries of the Future and what they might look like was discussed, as well as how the cannabis industry as a whole has been developing. However, this episode focuses on the science behind cannabis, and especially the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoids and terpenes.
So, even if science is not really your area of expertise or interest, I still highly recommend giving this episode a listen, as it is essential to understand the cannabis plant and how it interacts with the human body if you want to be successful in the cannabis industry.
Other topics discussed:
- What are cannabinoids?
- What are phytocannabinoids?
- What are terpenes?
- What are CB1 and CB2 receptors and how do they differ from each other?
- How is the runner’s high connected to the endocannabinoid system?
- Why was the endocannabinoid system only discovered in 1992?
- Why does cannabis only synthesize the acidic form of cannabinoids?
- Why does CBD prefer to interact with serotonin receptors rather than cannabinoid receptors?
- Who is Dr. Lumír Hanuš and Dr. William Devane?
- Can the acidic form of THC get me high?
- Is the DEA and FDA in the US finally opening up to cannabis research?
- Why is research on cannabis conducted by dispensaries only now becoming possible?
- Why are cannabis products not very well labelled?
- Why is there a lack of validation of hemp and cannabis-derived products?
- What are the 3 major cannabinoids found in cannabis, and how do they interact with CB1 receptors?
- Why is it so difficult to get cannabis-derived pharmaceutical medicine approved and produced?
- Why do plants from the same strain vary so much depending on where and how they are grown?
- What is the sense of smell, and how is it linked to the limbic system?
- What is the entourage effect?
Links:
Website - www.adendox.com
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/adendox/
Related Podcast Episodes:
Other Episode with Dr. Jokūbas Žiburkus - #9 - Dispensaries of the Future
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Simon Villum Folmann, the CEO and Co-Founder of HØJ - a company producing high quality cannabis accessories using Danish design and the latest technologies. The KLIP, which is HØJ’s grinder, and the KØL, which is their pipe, are the two products we dive into on this episode. Simon shares HØJ’s story from creating a concept, to producing a prototype, to eventually having a finished product available to the cannabis consumer. He also explains the amount of research and development, time and effort, as well as money and investment needed to produce a good quality product, and how to get it out on to the market.
Coming from a sustainable background in solar energy, Simon emphasises the importance of using sustainable materials and practices, where possible. HØJ uses cork and recyclable aluminium in their packaging and products, and the company implements sustainable and ethical practices themselves. Simon also discusses the importance of well-designed packaging, why the UK is good for product development, but also the challenges Brexit has brought, as well as how to create a great user experience.
Other topics discussed:
- What does HØJ, KLIP and KØL mean?
- Why are grinders using such an old technology?
- Why is it important to slice or cut your weed instead of grind it?
- Can grinding cannabis ruin the integrity of the trichomes?
- Why is the UK good for product development?
- How has Brexit affected the company?
- What is recyclable aluminium?
- Why is cork such a good material to use for packaging?
- How important is it to create a nice and cosy environment and setting for first time cannabis users?
- Is hash more popular than marijuana in Denmark?
Links:
Website - www.hoj.life
Instagram - @hoj.life
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/hojlife/
Facebook - www.facebook.com/hoj.life
Related Podcast Episodes:
Episode with Max Simon from Green Flower - #42 - What Does a Ganjier Course Look Like?
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Max Simon, the CEO and Co-Founder of Green Flower - a company that offers certified cannabis courses for entrepreneurs who want to enter the cannabis industry or further develop their cannabis careers. Green Flower also provides training programs for cannabis companies, government agencies and universities.
Before Green Flower, Max had the opportunity to be the Director of Products for Deepak Chopra, the legendary mind-body medicine guru, where he helped develop the Chopra Center Brand and became the youngest meditation teacher in their history. With that experience and seeing a need for more education in the growing cannabis industry, Max created one of the world's leading cannabis training and education platforms.
Ganjier is the latest certified cannabis course Green Flower has released. Max explains what the Ganjier program consists of and what it means to be a Ganjier. So if you're interested in learning more about the course and the opportunities available for Ganjiers, then this episode is definitely for you.
Other topics discussed:
- Why did Max start Green Flower?
- How important is education and training in the cannabis industry?
- What different cannabis courses does Green Flower provide?
- How has Covid-19 affected the company?
- What can the European cannabis industry gain from cannabis education and training programs?
- How can education and experience help get rid of the stigma of cannabis?
- How is Green Flower managing to partner up with different universities?
- Why did Max decide to create the Ganjier program?
- What does the future hold for Green Flower?
- What can Europe learn from the North American cannabis industry?
- What are the problems with cannabis vertical integration?
**Links:
Green Flower**
Website - https://www.green-flower.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/school/greenflower/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/greenflowerlearning/
Ganjier
Website - https://www.ganjier.com/
Instagram - @the_ganjier
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ganjier/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theganjier
Max Simon
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-simon-b51161156/
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Chris Piazza, the CEO and Co-Founder of CannaDevices. The company is an American Glass and accessory distributor providing high quality, handcrafted glass pipes (and more) to dispensaries and head shops around the US and beyond. Chris partnered up with Bob Bank, a long time friend and fellow glass blower, and together they started CannaDevices with the aim of providing jobs and opportunities for glass artists.
Coming from the world of glass blowing, Chris understands the struggles and difficulties of getting your work out onto dispensary shelves and eventually into the hands of cannabis consumers. CannaDevices now works with over 40 different glass blowers around the US, with that number growing day by day.
So if you’re a glass blower wanting to work in the cannabis space, whether in North America, South America, Europe, or anywhere else, this is a great episode to learn some tips and tricks of how to get your work out there.
Other topics discussed:
- What the glass pipe blowing process looks like
- How the artist always comes first
- The importance of events and tradeshows such as MJBizCon
- Creating a good family-like work culture
- The difficulties of working with banks and other service providing companies in the cannabis industry
- Creating a good partnership with Doss Carts (vape electronics)
- Expanding beyond the US
Links:
Website - https://cannadevices.com/
Instagram - @CannaDevices
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispiazzail/
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Chris Tasker, the founder of Global Cannabinoid Solutions - a company providing scientific support and solutions for businesses in the cannabis industry (or wanting to enter it). Many large companies will have a finance department, a marketing department and a law department. However, most will not have a science department, and Chris feels this is a big mistake, especially in the cannabis industry.
As science is playing an ever-increasing role in all industries, Chris saw the need to provide businesses in the cannabis industry, particularly in Europe, with scientific solutions. That is why he created Global Cannabinoid Solutions to provide cannabis businesses with scientific tools and services and push the cannabis conversation forward through education and communication.
Over the last few years, Chris has also been working closely with Social Cannabis Clubs around the UK, helping them create constructive conversations with UK law enforcement by bringing academic and scientific reasoning to the table. Tom and Chris discuss a wide range of topics such as how Global Cannabinoid Solutions grew out of an idea, what different services and courses they provide, what the UK needs to do to help patients medicating with cannabis, and how to push the industry in the UK forward.
Other topics discussed:
- What is the Cannamanual?
- How can patients medicate with cannabis safely in the UK?
- How can we bring science, education and business together in the cannabis industry?
- What are the difficulties of conducting scientific research on cannabis in the UK?
- Why is the British government not providing any funds for cannabis research?
- How successful was the test study on the Social Cannabis Club in Durham
- Why is there so much talk about CBD?
- How important is good education and proper communication in moving the cannabis conversation forward?
Links:
Global Cannabinoid Solutions - https://globalcannabinoidsolutions.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-cannabinoid-solutions/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GlobalCannabinoidSolutions
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Brett Puffenbarger, who is the Director of Marketing and Sales for FOCUS - The Foundation Of Unified Standards. Brett shares what it’s like working for FOCUS, and how they are working with different companies and government agencies to create compliances and unified standards to help better the cannabis industry. He also explains what kind of services FOCUS provides, and what kind of standards they are creating and implementing around the world.
Brett points out some of the issues in the cannabis industry, how unified standards can address some of these issues, and how different governments and businesses are implementing these standards. Tom and Brett also discuss some of the pitfalls in the cannabis industry and what Europe should look out for.
Other topics discussed:
- When and why FOCUS was created
- What is “Good Highdeas”?
- How are different US states approaching cannabis legalisation?
- How should the US government approach the federal legalisation of cannabis?
- What can Europe learn from the US?
- How to post good content on LinkedIn
- How Brett manages his time between so many projects
Links:
FOCUS - https://www.focusstandards.org/
Good Highdeas - https://www.goodhighdeas.net/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettpuffenbarger/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brettpuffenbarger/
Previous Episode with Brett Puffenbarger - #20 - Bridging the Gap From Bong to Boardroom
The CannaBS Detector Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/fi/podcast/the-cannabs-detector/id1422449205
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Jules Marshall, a writer from the uk who has been living in Amsterdam since the 90’s. Jules shares how he went from writing about social issues, technology and the internet, to writing about cannabis and other herbal drugs and remedies. He was one of the first journalists to write about Ayahuasca in the 90’s after travelling to the Amazon and trying it for himself.
Jules also discusses his latest project collaborating with the Hash, Marijuana and Hemp Museum, where they have spent the last several years working on a book called the “Weed of Wonder”. The book provides an enormous amount of information about the cannabis plant. It is an encyclopedia on what this plant has done, is doing, and will do in the future, and also takes an in depth look at the Dutch approach towards cannabis.
From its dark history to its bright future, there is one thing for sure, cannabis is still shrouded in plenty of mystery.
Other topics discussed:
- How to research cannabis properly
- Amsterdam and the “Golden Ages” (in the 90’s)
- The struggles of writing a book
- Looking at cannabis from a biological and anthropological perspective
- The cannabis “dark ages”
- How the tolerance towards cannabis in the Netherlands has changed
- The potential of hemp
- The importance of a good career partner
LinksWeed of Wonder - https://weedofwonder.nl/
Hash, Marijuana and Hash Museum - https://hashmuseum.com/
Episode with Noah Tucker about High Cuisine - #26 - Creating High Cuisine with Cannabis
Article about Ayahuasca - The Independent
Article about UK techno-hippie culture in the 90’s - Wired Magazine
Are you wondering why there is so much talk about Delta-8 THC? Or are you perhaps curious to try it? Or do you have no idea what it is? Well you are not alone. It is the latest cannabinoid shrouded in mystery to hit the market, but not without its controversy.
On this episode Tom discusses what Delta-8 THC is, how it’s made, what effects it has on the human body, and why you should be cautious about trying it.
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Humberto J. Nogueira, who has been working with hemp and medical cannabis in Portugal since 2014. He explains what the current situation looks like for hemp and medical cannabis producers, how the Portuguese government wants to move forward with legislation, and what impact it is having on the country. Humberto also sheds light on the latest developments of the EU legislation in regards to CBD, and how different European countries are approaching CBD.
We also discuss what it takes to be a Portuguese hemp producer, which cultivars are best suited for the southern European climate, and what can be done with hemp crops post harvesting. Humberto is also a part of several hemp and medical cannabis associations, such as HempToday and CannaCasa (Portuguese Association of Industrial Hemp).
Other topics discussed:
- How is the new medical cannabis legislation in Portugal affecting the hemp industry?
- The importance of security when producing hemp and medical cannabis
- When is the best time to sow your hemp seeds?
- Differences between growing hemp for fibre, flower, or seeds
- What is the bureaucracy process in Portugal for hemp and medical cannabis producers?
- The difficulties of scaling up in Portugal
- Getting the most out of your crops
- When to sell CBD flowers and biomass to the European market
- Finola and the advantages of using this autoflowering cultivar from the EU catalogue
Links:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/humberto-j-nogueira/
CannaCasa - https://www.cannacasa.pt/
Hemp Today - https://hemptoday.net/
Episode with Maren Krings about Hemp - #23 - Photographing Hemp Projects
On this episode Tom is interviewing Dr Julie Moltke, a Danish doctor living in Sweden at her farm and mindfulness retreat. On the previous episode, they discussed all things CBD. Here the focus shifts to medical cannabis. Dr Julie tells us a bit about the current use of medical cannabis in Europe, with a special focus on Denmark.
Dr Julie also explains the different uses of medical cannabis, lists some of the medical conditions and illnesses cannabis can help treat, and shares her opinion on why doctors don't prescribe it more often.
Other topics discussed:
- What are the potential dangers of cannabis use?
- How does cannabis fit into western medicine?
- What are the benefits of a more holistic approach in medicine
- The 4 year clinical trial on medical cannabis in Denmark
- The relationship between cannabis and psychosis?
- Is smoking cannabis at young age dangerous?
- Is medical cannabis easily accessible in Denmark?
Links:
Dr Julie Moltke's Website
Clinic Horsted
Episode with Dr. Julie Moltke about CBD - #34 - A Quick Guide To CBD
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Dr. Julie Moltke, who is from Denmark but lives in Sweden. As a doctor she prescribes CBD and medical cannabis to patients, and has also written a book about CBD called “A Quick Guide to CBD”. Julie explains what CBD actually is, what the endocannabinoid system is and how CBD interacts with it, as well as what effects CBD can have on the body and mind.
CBD has exploded onto the European and American markets, and is growing in popularity day by day. Therefore, it is important to understand exactly what this amazing cannabinoid is, and how best to utilise it. Most people in the cannabis industry are well aware of CBD, but scientists are still learning new things about it everyday, as Dr. Julie Moltke explains. If you’ve never tried CBD but are curious to, or you are a novice user, then this episode will definitely be helpful. On the other hand, if you are well versed in all things cannabis and CBD related but do not come from a medical background, then there is still a lot you can learn, as Julie explains things from a medical perspective.
Other topics discussed:
- What is the difference between CBD and THC?
- What is cannabinoid deficiency syndrome?
- How can CBD help veterans?
- What is a healthy daily dosage of CBD?
- What is the difference between Isolate, Broad Spectrum and Full Spectrum CBD?
- Why is CBD so expensive?
- What different types of CBD applications exist?
- What should different CBD applications be used for?
- British and EU Novel Food Regulation
- How LDN CBD is trying to bring down the price of CBD
Links:
Website - https://www.drjuliemoltke.com/
LDN CBD - https://ldncbd.com/
Clinic Horsted - https://clinichorsted.com/en/home/
Episode with Joe Oliver from LDN CBD - #14 - How I Opened the First CBD Store in the UK
On this episode, Tom is talking to Laura Hand from the Cannabis Travel Association. Laura discusses the happy marriage between cannabis and tourism, and various types of trips and activities that create a great cannabis experience. If you come from the hospitality industry and are wondering how to combine it with cannabis, this episode is just for you. The association has just opened up to International Members, so Europeans are very welcome!
Other topics discussed:
- The core activities of the Cannabis Travel Association
- How are traditional SPAs using Cannabis to attract new guests?
- Are cannabis trips better for the first time or experienced users?
- The Cannabis Trail and what you can learn by following it.
- Current Cannabis tourism hot spots around the world
- What do 420-friendly Bed & Breakfasts and hotels do to make cannabis users comfortable?
- The Artsy Leaf, the “Etsy for Cannabis”
- Hibnb, the “Airbnb for Cannabis”
- What cannabis experiences do Boomers want?
- What are the biggest obstacles in the cannabis industry?
Links:
International Cannabis Travel Assosiation
Customer Delight Process
Are you wondering if you should start selling CBD in Europe? If so, you are not alone. This is by far one of the most common questions Tom gets asked when he talks about Smells Like Business.
On this episode Tom will be answering that exact question. He will share his views on whether it’s a good idea to start selling CBD now, and what he thinks people actially want to know when they ask this question.
So, if you are currently contemplating if selling CBD is the right business for you, then this episode will help you make your choice.
Links:
Episode with Bas Nierop from OGeez Krunch: #29 - From Coffeeshop, To Social Cannabis Club, To Chocolate That Looks Like Cannabis
Episode with Natalia Janusz from Wolne Konopie: #8 - A cannabis economist’s view on legalization in Europe
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Carly Barton, the creator and driving force behind Cancard. The purpose of Cancard is to help medical cannabis users in the UK to have a validated indication for the police. Cancard is a photo ID card that has its own verification system allowing police officers to act with trust, discretion and compassion.
Carly was the first person in the UK to be prescribed medical cannabis. After experiencing, first hand, the problems with getting a medical prescription for cannabis, she decided to create Cancard. With the help of doctors and senior representatives of the UK police, Candard is now used by thousands of patients self-medicating with weed.
Carly also shares her own story of using the plant as a medicine, what more the UK government should be doing to move cannabis legislation forward, and what the future looks like for Cancard.
Other topics discussed:
- Who is eligible for Cancard?
- How to get a Cancard?
- Who can access medical cannabis in the UK?
- Why is the
- Who is the team behind Cancard?
- How to approach the law enforcement and medical practitioners about cannabis?
- Why is medical cannabis not accessible through the NHS?
- How peaceful activism can open the door to dialogue
- How drinking tea can solve everything
Links:
CanCard - https://www.cancard.co.uk
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cancardofficial/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cancard/
Instagram - @cancard_uk
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Aleksandr Koriulakov and Alex Hermann. Aleksandr is the CEO, main programmer, and brains behind KushScan, an app that tries to detect what strain type your cannabis is by taking a photo of the flower. Aleksandr has many years of experience working in the software industry under his belt, whereas Alex comes from a more business background and has helped several IT start-ups get off the ground.
Aleksandr and Alex explain where the idea to build the app came from, as well as how it works. We also discuss how KushScan is trying to bring consumers from the black market into the legal one, as well as the different marketing practices they have been using to promote the app.
Other topics discussed:
- What different features does KushScan have?
- How important is the photo quality?
- How many strains can KushScan detect?
- What is a genetic tree?
- How to train the algorithm
- What is organic growth in marketing?
- The importance of SEO and backlinks
- How to attract external investors
- Who is KushScan’s target group?
- Creating data and statistics for potential vendors
Links:
KushScan - http://www.kushscan.org
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kushexpert/
Instagram - @Kushscan
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Bas Nierop. They discuss Bas’ colourful cannabis past, which included managing a Coffeeshop for two years and opening a Social Cannabis Club in Spain. However, the interview focuses on his latest venture - OGeez Krunch. Bas, who is originally from the Netherlands, now lives in the north of Spain where he creates chocolate that looks just like cannabis. During our conversation we discuss the interesting beginnings of the company (spoiler: it has to do with Skateboarding), how Bas has managed to scale it up, as well as what the future holds.
Bas also shares the pros and cons of having a product which resembles weed, as well as how it can be a good way to break the ice and get the cannabis conversation going. Although cannabis might not be for everyone, chocolate usually tends to be!
Other topics discussed:
- What is the difference between a Coffeeshop and a Social Cannabis Club?
- Why do people buy chocolate that looks like cannabis?
- How does Bas make his chocolate look so much like weed?
- Is it easy to make and distribute CBD infused chocolate in Europe?
- The EU novel food regulation
- Navigating between the cannabis and chocolate industries
- What are the best ways to advertise a product that looks like cannabis?
- How can a product sell itself?
- Who are OGeez’s customers?
- Using THC and other cannabinoids in chocolates in the future
Links:
OGeez Krunch - https://www.ogeez.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ogeezkrunch/
Instagram - @ogeez_krunch
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Claire Poulos and Kyle Findley-Meier, the founders of Sky Colony Consulting. They have spent the last year traveling around North and Central America in their van before deciding to move to Arizona, where cannabis has just recently been legalised.
They discuss what it was like seeing the industry transition from an illegal to a legal market, how they entered and grew within the industry, how they are now carving their own corner in the cannabis space, as well as how they are helping other new cannabis businesses thrive.
Other topics discussed:
- Creating protocols and systems for cannabis businesses
- Having a company ethos and sticking to it
- The importance of sustainable packaging
- The importance of making Rick Simpson Oil available in Europe
- Educating the older generations in Europe to help get rid of the stigma
- Finding opportunities to grow within the cannabis industry
- Finding cannabis businesses’ blind spots
Links:
Sky Colony Consulting - https://www.skycolonyconsulting.com/
LinkedIn Claire Poulos - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairepoulosconsulting/
LinkedIn Kyle Findley-Meier - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-findley-meier-aa138920b/
Episode with Natalia Janusz: #8 - A cannabis economist’s view on legalization in Europe
Episode with Mike Wise: #17 - Patients Over Profit and The Importance of Activism in The Cannabis Industry
On this episode Tom is shifting the focus to you! He will explore 7 questions that you have to ask yourself if you are seriously considering joining the cannabis industry in Europe. Running a cannabis business, while exciting, really isn’t for everyone. If you believe that you have a future in cannabis, we encourage you to give this episode a listen and to really think about the questions being asked. Are they making you feel uncomfortable and uneasy? Or are they making you feel excised and confident? Whatever conclusion you end up with, this short episode is a great way to check if working with cannabis really is the right choice for you.
The 7 Questions:
- Do I really understand the cannabis plant and all the things it can do?
- Do I have my finger on the cannabis pulse?
- Am I comfortable with change?
- What is the legal situation in my country?
- Am I ready to be a cannabis advocate?
- Can I think outside the box?
- Do I have a business plan?
Links:
https://www.smellslikebusiness.com/contact
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Noah Tucker. Noah is a chef from New York who has been calling Amsterdam his home for more than a decade now. Noah and his business and culinary partner, Anthony Joseph, founded High Cuisine with the purpose of creating and curating a fine dining experience using cannabis and other natural psychoactive herbs and ingredients such as truffles, mushrooms and kratom. They have since gone on to create their own TV show. They have released their first cookbook (with more to come), and have collaborated with world-renowned cocktail makers to create a mocktail recipe book using psychoactive ingredients.
Noah also explains what it’s like to cook with cannabis and other natural psychoactive ingredients, and kindly shares some incredible tips on how to cook with cannabis at home.
Other topics discussed:
- Using food as a medium to take psychedelics.
- The importance of finding a good business partner.
- What is decarboxylation?
- Why you should decarboxylate your cannabis before cooking with it.
- Creating an entourage effect with different foods and psychoactive ingredients.
- The responsibility that goes into curating such an experience.
- What do different natural drugs taste like?
- How do you incorporate natural drugs into fine dining?
- How High Cuisine got their documentary series onto Videoland.
- The importance of using the best quality sourced ingredients.
Links:
High Cuisine - https://www.highcuisine.com/
Instagram - @highcuisineworld
Youtube Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5AUxXqzC5k
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/highcuisineworld/*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Davina Kaonohi. Davina is the CEO and Co-Founder of Element Apothec, a recently launched wellness skin and body care brand using CBD (and other minor cannabinoids) along with other natural ingredients. We discuss the different ways in which the company is creating brand awareness in an ever increasingly crowded and competitive CBD market. We also discuss the importance of building trust with your customers, and how being a transparent company can help you achieve this. Davina shares how Element Apothec is creating products with organic ingredients and sustainable practices, and how the CBD industry as a whole needs to develop.
Other topics discussed:
- Collaboration with TagOne to achieve transparency
- Is crowdfunding a useful tool to help launch a new brand
- What are CBG and CBN and what do they do?
- The family history tied to the remedies
- Working with wholesalers and distributors vs. having your own e-commerce
- Working with Influencers and brand ambassadors
- What it’s like collaborating with Showfields, an artistic and theme oriented department store
Links:
Element Apothec - www.elementapothec.com
Instagram - @elementapothec
Davina Kaonohi LinkedIn
TagOne
Smells Like Business Episode with Craig Henderson from Extract Labs - #5 - How Starting a Business With a Clear Mission Can Lead to Success
Smells Like Business Episode with MatthewO’Brien from Four PM - #24 - How I Moved From Ireland to Canada to Kickstart My Cannabis Career
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Matthew O’Brien, the founder of Four PM. At the age of 19 Matthew decided to skip University education and move from Ireland to Canada, with just $500 in his pocket, to start his cannabis career. The risk paid off. Matthew worked his way up from a budtender at a dispensary to head of inventory for a whole chain of dispensaries. Matthew has since gone on to create Four PM, a daily newsletter designed for people who want to stay up to date on all the new developments within the cannabis industry. He shares his story with us and gives great tips for any European dreaming of moving to Canada or the US to start their cannabis career. He also shares some great insights into what he thinks will be the next big developments in the cannabis industry.
Other topics discussed:
- What is the role of a bud-tender?
- Will the cannabis prohibition end any time soon?
- How to climb the corporate ladder in the cannabis industry, and do it quickly?
- The differences between small cannabis businesses and cannabis corporations.
- What is Four PM?
- Will we use cannabinoids other than CBD and THC?
- The role of bio-synthetics in the future of the cannabis industry.
- Is the Sativa and Indica model of categorising cannabis outdated?
- How can cannabis brands educate their consumers?
- What lessons on legalising cannabis can Europe learn from Canada?
- How could Ireland benefit from legalising cannabis?
- What can you do today to enter the cannabis industry?
Links:
Four PM
Four PM on LinkedIn
Matthew’s Linkedin
Dr. Ethan Russo
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Maren Krings. Maren is a documentary photographer focusing on the social and environmental impact of the climate crisis. She has spent the last 5 years travelling the world photographing and documenting over 200 different Hemp projects and interviewing multiple experts on the topic of Hemp and its potential sustainable applications. Maren talks about how she discovered Hemp and what she learnt from her travels. She is also in the process of compiling all these projects into a book, and shares her creative process and journey into creating the book.
Maren’s approach towards life and art is very close to our hearts here at Smells Like Business. We hope that you feel the same way.
Other topics discussed:
- How did Hemp find Maren
- Why did Maren decide to start this project?
- How to talk about the environmental crisis to make sure people listen
- Is Hemp the answer to many of the ecological issues we face?
- What is “Hemp Plastic,” and why should it be rebranded?
- What is Hemp paper and where to find it?
- What projects has she photographed?
- What is the legal status of Hemp in Mongolia and how are its citizens trying to change it?
- The importance of Hemp advocacy.
- The creative process of turning your experiences into a book.
- Who is a story doctor or a professional storyteller?
- What will Maren’s book be about?
- How to find purpose in your work.
Links:
Maren Krings Website
Maren’s Instagram - @maren_krings_photography
Maren’s Story Doctor Paulien Bakker
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Shayda Torabi. Shayda is a true marketer and shares her wealth of knowledge and experience on how to best navigate around the difficulties of advertising in the cannabis and CBD industries. As most standard practices of advertising are not allowed, it is essential to understand how you can actually promote your cannabis business or CBD brand. Shayda gladly shares her marketing tips and tricks and gives examples of how to get creative with your marketing and think outside the box.
Shayda also runs a female and family owned CBD business along with her sisters called RESTART CBD out of Austin, Texas.
Other topics discussed:
- Which social media platforms are best for promoting cannabis and CBD brands
- What is Clubhouse?
- How to find your target group
- How to work with influencers
- The importance of storytelling
- How sustainable practices can help your brand
- The difficulties of e-commerce
- What Europe can learn from the US in regards to cannabis and CBD advertising
- How to get into public speaking
- The importance of strong content with good SEO
Links:
Shayda Torabi
RESTART CBD
Instagram - @theshaydatorabi
To Be Blunt Podcast
Smells Like Business Episode with Joe Oliver from LDN CBD - #14. How I Opened the First CBD Store in the UK
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with you! Tom gives a 10 point summary of some of the important things that happened in 2020, when it comes to cannabis and CBD in Europe. He discusses what steps have been made towards the legalization of cannabis in Europe, as well as the general trends related to CBD. It is a pleasure to say that, even if a lot of us have struggled during these crazy corona times, cannabis actually had a pretty good year in 2020! Let’s keep our fingers crossed for an amazing 2021!
Other topics discussed:
- Coffeeshops in the time of a pandemic
- Medical Cannabis Pilot Programs
- Recreational Cannabis Pilot Programs
- Impact of Covid-19 on CBD sales
- The race to be the first country to legalize
- EU Novel Food Regulation and its impact on the CBD business in 2021
- United Nations and WHO rescheduling the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs
Links:
Smells Like Business Linkedin Page
Intagram @smellslikebusiness
Smells Like Business Website
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Brett Puffenbarger, the Director of Digital Marketing and Sales Integration at Vanguard Scientific.
Brett has been in the professional world of cannabis for more than 5 years, and tells us his story of how he managed to transfer himself and his skills into this industry. He also shares great tips on how to prepare in the best way possible to enter the cannabis market, and explains why it is important to educate yourself, and others, on all things cannabis. Having seen the cannabis industry grow rapidly in the US, while at the same time having seen his own cannabis career grow in parallel, Brett is able to highlight the pros and cons of the industry, and shine some light on what it’s like to work in it.
He also shares his insight on how the cannabis industry has grown and is still developing in the US, and what lessons Europe can learn from it.
As Brett states himself, he is “Bridging the gap from Bong to Boardroom”. That sums him up pretty nicely.
Other topics discussed:
- How does advertising work in the cannabis industry?
- What are the pros and cons when it comes to vertical integration vs horizontal integration?
- Is extraction a science or an art-form?
- Is there more to the cannabis industry than just cultivation?
- What is the Green Rush and has it benefited the industry?
- What lessons can be learned from the gold rush and the dot-com bubble?
- Is doing a cannabis course useful in helping you enter the industry?
- How to use social media in your cannabis job search?
- How has the Green Rush affected the cannabis industry?
Links:
-
Brett Puffenbarger Website
-
Vanguard Scientific
-
Suncoast NORML
-
Brett's Instragram
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Michael Henell, a Swedish hemp farmer with his own company and brand Magic Herb. On August 13th, 2020, Michael’s farm got raided by the police and all his beloved plants were taken away. His story is not that uncommon and is one that many fear. Even with all the correct paperwork and legal permissions, the stigma over cannabis and the lack of understanding on the side of the Swedish police resulted in an unjustified raid on Michael’s hemp farm.
In this interview we learn what happened, how it happened, and what Michael is doing to fight the unjust actions taken against him. We also learn the things Michael believes he could have done better to protect himself from the raid, as well as some of the various legal proceedings that occur when such an event happens. If you are considering starting a hemp farm in Europe, this episode will tell you the price you might have to pay for being one of the pioneers in the industry.
Other topics discussed:
- How did Michael start Magic Herb?
- Is there a hemp community in Sweden?
- How common are raids like this?
- What is the attitude of the Swedish police towards hemp farmers?
- What impact do such situations have on family members?
- Is hemp farming worth it?
- What can you do to prepare yourself for a raid as a hemp farmer?
Links:*
-
Magicherb Website
-
Magic Herbs Facebook Page
-
A Smells Like Business Episode with John Hedström from Hooly Hemp #16 - Life of a European Hemp Farmer
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom continues his chat with Jacek Kramarz from HemPoland. Jacek was a guest on episode 12, where he talked about the beginnings of HemPoland. Today, Jacek tells us the story behind one of the largest acquisitions to ever happen in the hemp industry, when The Green Organic Dutchman acquired HemPoland in 2018. Jacek, one of the HemPoland partners, tells us how it happened, why it happened, and what impact it had on the business. He also shares plenty of tips for those who are looking for an investor, as well as how the hemp and CBD industry should develop and move forward in Europe. This is an extraordinary peek into one of the largest acquisitions in the hemp industry to ever happen.
Other topics discussed:
- Why did HemPoland decide to look for a business partner?
- How did HemPoland find their investor?
- How to approach an acquisition process like a pro.
- What did the negotiations between HemPoland and The Green Organic Dutchman look like?
- Why did HemPoland agree for a 100% takeover?
- How does an acquisition change the company and it’s priorities?
- How to look for cannabis investors.
- Does it pay off to be honest with investors?
- What does Europe need to do to build a strong cannabis market?
- What is the role of regulations for the hemp industry in Europe?
Links:*
HemPoland
CannabiGold UK
CannabiGold Poland
The Green Organic Dutchman
Our Previous Episode with Jacek Kramarz
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Mike Wise who is a cannabis activist, a film-maker and the owner of OG Labs Genetics, where he sells seeds and his cannabis oil. Mike talks about how he got into cannabis activism and how high THC cannabis oil changed his life.
Mike also tells us how he became friends with Rick Simpson as well as how he acquired the last autograph of the legendary Jack Herer. The episode finishes off discussing what the future of cannabis in Europe should look like, as well as the importance of cannabis activism, especially for those who really need it to live happy and healthy lives.
Other topics discussed:
- Crohn’s disease and cannabis.
- How did “The Mike Wise Show” come to be?
- The “Illegally Alive” Documentary documentary.
- How did Mike learn how to make RSO or high THC cannabis oil?
- What is high THC cannabis oil, also known as the Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)?
- Why did Mike Wise leave the USA?
- What are the most challenging things about being a cannabis activist?
- What can you do to help legalise cannabis in Europe?
- Lessons to learn from Colorado’s legalisation process.
- The impact of big pharma and politicians on the cannabis industry.
- The importance of activist organisations, such as Wolne Konopie in Poland, in the fight for legalisation.
Links:*
OG Labs Genetics Website
Mike Wise Show Facebook Page
Instagram: @mikewiseshow
"Illegally Alive" Movie
A Smells Like Business Episode with Natalia Janusz from Wolne Konopie: #8 - A cannabis economist’s view on legalization in Europe
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with John Hedström, a hemp farmer from Sweden with his own brand called Hooly Hemp. John shares his story of moving away from corporate life to one where he is surrounded by nature. He talks about the ups and downs of growing hemp in Sweden and shares everything he has learnt from his own experience through trial and error, making it easier for you to start growing your own hemp.
Other topics discussed:
- How to start growing hemp in Sweden.
- What does an everyday life of a hemp farmer look like?
- Why did John decide to quit his job and set up a hemp farm?
- How did John find the right land to grow hemp on?
- What do you need to know before becoming a hemp farmer?
- How to get the permits to grow hemp in Sweden.
- How important is it to select the right strains to grow?
- What role does the weather play in the life of a hemp farmer?
- What can you produce from Hemp?
- The importance of preparation
Links:*
Hooly Hemp
Instagram: @hoolyhemp
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode, Tom is having a chat with Thierry Florit, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Green Times Brewing, the first CBD beer producer in the UK. Thierry started the company together with his friend Carl Boon. The company was founded in 2018 and they have since managed to create 3 different types of CBD infused beer that are both gluten-free and vegan, including an alcohol-free option. Thierry talks about the origin of their idea, their plans for the future, the importance of being environmentally conscious, and the ins-and-outs of running a business that is a part of two challenging markets - CBD and Alcohol.
Other topics discussed:
- How long did it take to get from an idea to a finished product?
- Who are Green Times Brewing’s clients and customers?
- Is it hard to market and advertise CBD beer?
- What impact will the EU Novel Food Regulation have on CBD Beer?
- How and where is their CBD beer made?
- Why is Green Times Brewing using Broad-Spectrum CBD instead of CBD isolates?
- How did they manage to collaborate with Northern Monk Brewery?
- How has the company evolved since it's inception?
- What were the biggest challenges they had to overcome?
Links:*
Green Times Brewing
Discount code: SUPER CHILLED
Eden Reforestation Projects
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Joe Oliver, the Director and Co-founder of LDN CBD and a serial entrepreneur. Joe is a recurring guest who we spoke to on our first episode about cannabis sustainability. Joe tells us how he and his friend, Aaron Horn, opened the first CBD shop in London, the obstacles they faced along the way, and what lessons they have learned including Covid-19. He also gives very good advice for anyone who is thinking of opening a CBD store anywhere in Europe and how to succeed in what is now a very saturated CBD market.
Other topics discussed:
- Why did Joe and Aaron open the first high-street CBD shop?
- Why did LDN CBD get so much media exposure?
- Why did LDN CBD decide to make their own brand of CBD products?
- Should I test my CBD products?
- How difficult is it to start your own CBD brand?
- Why did LDN CBD decide to sell Broad Spectrum CBD, instead of Full Spectrum CBD or CBD Isolates?
- Is it legal to have THC in CBD in the UK?
- Who are their customers?
- What do I need to do to open a retail CBD store?
- What impact does Covid-19 have on CBD retail?
- What are the future plans for LDN CBD?
- How has the CBD market in Europe changed over the years?
- How will the new Novel Food Regulation impact the EU CBD industry?
- How to find the right location for a CBD store?
- Advice for CBD beginners
Links:*
LDN CBD
Smells Like Business Episode #1 with Joe Oliver from FairCann - How to Build a More Sustainable and Fair Cannabis Industry
Smells Like Business Episode #5 with Craig Henderson from Extract Labs - How Starting a Business With a Clear Mission Can Lead to Success
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Niels Klintø, the CEO and one of the co-founders of Christiania Bryghus. Christiania Bryghus is a Danish brewery making tasty craft beer using hemp, and is based in Freetown Christiania, a magical place with an independent community in the heart of Copenhagen. Niels tells us how he, together with 3 other founders, came up with the idea to start a brewery, what it’s like to run a business inside Christiania, and how to incorporate hemp into beers. Niels shares an inspirational tale of Christiania Bryghus' challenging, but exciting beginnings. A great entrepreneurial story all together.
Other topics discussed:
- Where did the idea of starting a hemp beer brewery come from?
- How do you start brewing beer?
- How did the founders manage to get an approval from the Christiania community?
- What is it like to run a business inside Christiania?
- What is Christmas beer and why do Danes love it so much?
- How does it feel to become a hot commodity overnight?
- How to deal with high demand and low stock?
- How to use hemp in beer brewing?
- Is it a good idea to brew beer in a bunker?
- Should small breweries outsource some of the processes?
- Is CBD and beer a good mix?
Links:*
Christiania Bryghus
“Brewing a Community in Christiania” Video
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Jacek Kramarz, Partner and Director Of Business Development at HemPoland, the first privately owned Polish company to obtain a state license allowing it to grow and manufacture hemp in Poland. Jacek shares the story of why the company was formed, how they became pioneers and European leaders in the industry, and what lessons they learned along the way. He also dives into other topics such as the pros and cons to vertical integration, the importance of being organic and sustainable, and how fast R&D can put you ahead of the competition.
Other topics discussed:
- How did HemPoland manage to acquire growing licenses from local authorities in Poland?
- Why did Maciej Kowalski decide to start HemPoland?
- What was the thought process behind Jacek's decision to invest into HemPoland?
- How did HemPoland create their dream team?
- Why is HemPoland a vertically integrated company?
- How important is it to test your products in-house?
- Is it necessary for a CBD producer to grow their own hemp?
- What is the role of farmers in the hemp industry?
- Are there any elements of the hemp industry that are not sustainable?
- How did CannabiGold manage to get through to multiple European markets?
- How to achieve consistency in your products?
Links:*
HemPoland
CannabiGold UK
CannabiGold Poland
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom continues his chat with Gonzo, a weed dealer from Bristol. Gonzo shares his thoughts and reasoning behind re-entering the world of illegal weed dealing, and explains his day-to-day operations. We get a peek into who his clients are and where he gets his supplies from. Gonzo also discusses the impact Covid-19 has had on the black market and shares his views on cannabis legalization in the UK.
To learn more about Gonzo’s past check out Part 1 of our “Confessions of a Weed Dealer” series.
Important note:
Smells Like Business® is not promoting or advocating any illegal activities. We strongly advise you to wait until cannabis cultivation becomes legal in your country.
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Gonzo, a weed dealer from Bristol. Gonzo tells us his story of how he entered the world of illegal weed dealing in the UK and why he is still doing it. We share his story because, as strong advocates of cannabis legalization, we believe it is important to understand the lives and views of people who are involved in the cannabis black market in Europe.
On the next episode, Tom and Gonzo will discuss Gonzo’s customers as well as his views on legalizing cannabis in Europe. But first - enjoy the story of Gonzo. And please, do not try this at home!
Books mentioned in the episode:
- “The Doors of Perception” by Aldous Huxley (the author of “Brave New World”)
- “Confessions of an English Opium-Eater” by Thomas De Quincey
Important note:
Smells Like Business® is not promoting or advocating any illegal activities. We strongly advise you to wait until cannabis cultivation becomes legal in your country.
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Dr. Jokubas Ziburkus, a neuroscientist and entrepreneur turned Chief Innovation Officer at MariMed. Dr. Žiburkus has been merging the world of science and cannabis for years, finding the best products and solutions for both recreational and medical cannabis users. Dr. Žiburkus’ views on how dispensaries of the future will (and should) look like, together with his top-notch advice on how to enter the cannabis industry, make this episode a must for anyone interested in starting a cannabis career.
Other topics discussed:
- How did Dr. Jokūbas move from science to entrepreneurship?
- Why did Dr. Jokūbas decide to work with cannabis products and start Meditaurus?
- What does it mean to be a Chief Innovation Officer at a company like MariMed?
- What do cannabis dispensaries look like now?
- What should the role of a budtender or a dispensary employee be?
- Should we approach cannabis like we approach wine?
- How hard is it to get a cannabis license?
- How will dispensaries of the future look like?
- How will cannabis be categorized and sold?
- Is the “sativa and indica” system outdated?
- Will regionality be a thing in the cannabis world?
- Should Luxembourg introduce an upper THC limit when they fully legalise cannabis?
- Do we need an age limit for cannabis consumption?
- What is a social consumption lounge?
- Should Europe import cannabis or grow it's own?
- What lessons can we learn from the Covid-19 pandemic?
- How will the dispensaries look like in Europe?
- Is cannabis legal in Lithuania?
- What do you have to do to become a cannapreneur?
Links:*
- LinkedIn profile
- MariMed
- TedTalk Presentation on Epilepsy and Cannabis
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Natalia Janusz, a cannabis economist and activist based in Poland. Natalia has been fighting for the legalization of cannabis for years through her work at Wolne Konopie, her political engagements and her research. Natalia shares her views on the current and future state of cannabis in Europe as well as the economic and social benefits of cannabis legalization.
Other topics discusses:
- How did Natalia end up becoming a cannabis economist?
- What is Wolne Konopie?
- What is happening in Europe right now in regards to cannabis legalization?
- What countries are leading the cannabis reform?
- What are the EU laws on the allowed amount of THC in hemp?
- How will legalization of cannabis look like in Europe?
- What are the positive and negative consequences of legalizing cannabis?
- Is legalizing cannabis protecting or endangering children and teenagers?
- What are the current cannabis market trends in Europe?
- Is the cannabis market in Europe saturated?
- How to enter the cannabis industry as a beginner?
- Why is Europe taking this long to legalize?
- What is the relationship between the coronavirus crisis and cannabis prohibition?
Links:*
Natalia’s website
Wolne Konopie
The Petition which Natalia mentions
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with João Melo, the CEO and Founder of Open Grow. João talks about his 6 year long journey into the entrepreneurial world and his passion for creating agricultural automation systems. João also tells us about the challenges a startup selling physical products faces, shares the lessons he has learned along the way and expresses his views on cannabis legalization in Portugal and Europe.
Other topics discussed:
- What is Open Grow?
- What is GroLab™?
- What are the benefits of having an automated growing system?
- What was João’s first entrepreneurial project?
- Why did João start his own company?
- What is the biggest challenge when starting a business with a physical product?
- Why is it important to customise a growth system to your specific needs?
- What are the benefits of doing everything in-house instead of outsourcing?
- How to make sure you are accessible to your customers?
- What is Open Grow working on now?
- How is the company different now from when it started?
- How to find places to sell your product?
- What is the role of events in the cannabis industry?
- What is the current attitude towards cannabis in Portugal?
- Why is it so important to decriminalise cannabis?
Links:*
Open Grow
Cannabis events mentioned:
Spannabis
Cannafest
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Hana Gabrielova, the CEO and Founder of Hempoint. Hana started her life-long hemp journey after reading “The Emperor Wears No Clothes” by Jack Herer. It changed the way she looked at hemp and it’s potential to change the world. Hana created Hempoint with the purpose of producing the highest quality organic hemp and distributing organic hemp seeds to farmers around the world. Coming from a background of activism she is now involved in different initiatives advising multiple organizations and governments on how hemp can help us save the planet.
Other topics discussed:
- How did Hana’s hemp journey start?
- What does Hempoint do?
- Is Europe experiencing a hemp revival?
- Does the hemp industry need EU standards and guidelines?
- Why did the EU introduce Novel Food regulations for CBD?
- Is the hemp industry responsible enough?
- How should the hemp industry be regulated?
- What should you do if you want to start growing hemp in Europe?
- How to choose the right seeds for growing hemp?
- Is Hemp the answer to the European Green Deal?
- What is slowing down the hemp industry in Europe?
- Does the EU free-trade agreement apply to hemp?
- What countries in Europe are leading the hemp industry?
- Where does Europe get its hemp seeds from?
- What is the future of the hemp industry in Europe?
- How can hemp help us create a better and more sustainable planet?
Links:*
Hempoint
Hemp The Climate
Hemp Today
Czech Hemp
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Craig Henderson, the CEO of Extract Labs. After getting fired from his full-time job, Craig decided to take his career into his own hands and opened a CBD extraction company in Colorado. Craig talks about the hardship of starting a company and how his need to help people helped him grow his business from a one-man show in his garage to a multi-million dollar company.
Other topics discussed:
- How did Craig end up working with cannabis?
- What did Craig learn from working with various cbd start-ups?
- How was it to transition from the military, to having a job, to being your own boss?
- How did the business grow so fast?
- Why does Extract Labs keep everything in-house?
- What were the biggest challenges Craig faced when starting a business?
- How important is it to have a mission when starting a company?
- What is white labelling and is it a good way to enter the cannabis industry?
- What is the difference between broad spectrum CBD, full spectrum CBD and CBD isolate?
- Why did Extract Labs enter the European cannabis market?
- Europe vs North America - what are the differences in the CBD market?
- Does it pay off to start a cannabusiness during the risky times?
Links:*Transcript
Extract Labs
YouTube
Snapchat
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Frenchy Cannoli, a master hashishin and a living legend. By sharing his life story and cannabis experiences Frenchy explains why hash has played such an important role in his life and gives tips on what you can do to stay relevant in the cannabis industry and have an upper hand over the cannabis industry giants.
Other topics discussed:
- What is the difference between hash-making in India and in the Middle East?
- Why is the process of making hand-rubbed hash so magical
- How did the Frenchy Cannoli Brand come to life?
- How did Frenchy manage to gain access to the Emerald Triangle?
- Why is the Emerald Triangle so special?
- What is the purpose of Frenchy’s “Lost Art of the Hashishin” workshops?
- How important is appellation in the cannabis world?
- Can Northern California become the Bordeaux of cannabis?
- How important is tradition in hash making?
- How is science helping Frenchy?
- What will the cannabis industry look like when Europe legalizes?
- How can you make yourself relevant in the cannabis industry?
Links:*
-
Frenchy Cannoli
-
Facebook
-
Instagram
-
Youtube
-
LinkedIn
-
Twitter
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Kevin Rebelo Lopes, one of the Hempzon Co-Founders. Kevin updates us on the latest developments on cannabis legalization in Luxembourg, and shares an insight on what it takes to start and run a large cannabis expo in Europe.
Other topics discussed:
- How did Hempzon manage to convince their government to allow them to have a cannabis expo?
- What is the current state of the CBD market in Luxembourg?
- What are the challenges of working with exhibitors from various European countries?
- What impact does the new novel food EU regulation have on CBD shops in Luxembourg?
- How is Covid-19 impacting the cannabis expo industry?
- What is the role of networking for new cannabis businesses?
- Is Luxembourg really legalizing recreational cannabis?
- What is the cannabis culture in Luxembourg?
Links:*
Transcript
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Barbara Novak and Katarina Simonic from Hemptouch. Barbara (Head of Research and Development) and Katarina (Regional Sales Manager) tell us about the beginnings of Hemptouch, incorporating the WHOLE hemp plant into skin care products, and share tips on how not to get fooled by misleading labels.
Other topics discussed:
- What is the history of Hemp in Slovenia?
- What is an endocannabinoid system?
- What skin issues can hemp help with?
- Can you replace your steroid creams with CBD?
- What is Hemp hydrosol (also known as hemp hydrolate)?
- Are all hemp products equal?
Links:*
Hemptouch Website
*If you can't open the links through your podcast app, visit our Smells Like Business website!
On this episode Tom is having a chat with Joe Oliver, one of the Fair Cann Directors. Joe tells us about how he ended up opening the first CBD high street shop in the UK, and why he decided to dedicate his time and energy to fight for sustainability and fair trade practices in the cannabis industry.
Other topics discussed:
- What is FairCann?
- What is the secret of a successful CBD retail business?
- What does fair trade mean in the cannabis industry?
- How can we achieve global sustainability standards across the industry?
- Are big companies from North America going to dominate the European cannabis market?
- Can cannabis be patented?
- Is provenance the future of cannabis in Europe?
- What is the future of micro farming in Europe?
- What challenges will the industry in Europe face in the near future?
- Who will legalise next?
Links:Transcript
LDN CBD
LDN CBD Facebook
LDN CBD Instagram
Fair Cann