Pioneering Cannabis-Infused Spirits with Justin Tidwell of Nowadays

This episode of Shopify Happy Hour features Justin Tidwell, the visionary behind Nowadays—a cannabis-infused spirit brand that's shaking up the beverage industry. Justin walks us through the evolution of his THC beverage brand, sharing candid insights on everything from product development hurdles to the art of organic marketing. He explains how pivoting during the pandemic fueled rapid growth, and why authenticity in influencer marketing and customer engagement is the secret sauce to building lasting credibility.We also explore: ✅ Launching products only when they’re 100% ready✅ Harnessing organic marketing on TikTok to drive rapid growth ✅ Balancing DTC and retail growth for sustainable expansion✅ Tailoring strategies to a diverse THC beverage market✅ Building a strong company culture and memorable customer experiences✅ The future of THC beverages—education, compliance, and growth potentialIf you’re in e-commerce, DTC, or just curious about building a groundbreaking brand in the cannabis industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world experiences to elevate your game.Products and brands mentioned:NOWADAYSJohn D. Rockefeller’s Letters to his SonsSlate MilkglonutsKemosabeChapters:00:00 Introduction to Nowadays and Its Unique Offering03:09 Crafting the Perfect Beverage: R&D and Flavor Development06:02 From Concept to Market: The Journey of Nowadays08:57 The Power of Organic Marketing and Social Media11:59 Building Credibility Through Customer Experience14:51 Influencer Marketing: Authenticity Over Promotion24:05 Understanding the Target Market27:01 Marketing Strategies and Growth28:50 DTC vs Retail Growth30:25 Navigating Retail Opportunities33:28 Future of THC Beverages35:13 Surreal Moments in Business36:30 Hiring for Growth39:39 Building a Strong Company Culture42:02 Recommended Reads and Products44:01 Efficiency as an Entrepreneur45:52 Memorable Shopping Experiences47:12 Connecting with Justin