PODCAST · business
Apartment 113 Cannabis & Psychedelics Industry Podcast
by Rob Sanchez
Hang out at Apartment 113 with Rob and a different guest to talk shop about the industry and learn about all of the people that make it possible. Cultivation, manufacturing, extraction, accounting, consulting, media, events, education and more. Listen in for a conversational look at the origins of different businesses and projects in the space along with unique perspectives and occasional tangents.
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Episode 219 - Gary Laderman, Sacred Drugs
Episode 219 is the 17th episode of Season 4.Returning to the show for the first time since Episode 79 is Gary Laderman, Goodrich C. White Professor of American Religious History and Cultures at Emory University. Gary joins us to discuss his new book Sacred Drugs: How Psychoactive Substances Mix with Religious Life and the deeper relationship between psychoactive substances, spirituality and human culture.We talk about the ways substances ranging from coffee and alcohol to cannabis, psychedelics and pharmaceuticals have historically shaped religious practice, community and personal transformation. Gary also shares insights from his popular Emory course Sacred Drugs, discussing why altered states have remained such a persistent part of human meaning-making and how modern society continues to navigate questions around healing, transcendence and consciousness.This episode is a thoughtful conversation about religion, culture, psychoactive substances and the stories societies tell themselves about what is sacred.Find out more at garyladerman.comIG @garyladermanX @garyladermanEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 218 - Riel Roussopoulos, Bud Mafia
Episode 218 is the 16th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Riel Roussopoulos, Founder of Bud Mafia and a longtime marketer and technologist working across cannabis and other markets. Riel joins the show to talk about storytelling, digital strategy and the challenge of building events and brands in industries where traditional marketing channels are limited.We talk about Riel’s background spanning decades in digital marketing, his work building campaigns and content ecosystems in cannabis and how platforms, SEO and community-driven media play a role in growth. Riel shares his perspective on Bud Mafia as a media and events platform, the state of cannabis tech and the role of virtual events and video in brand building.This episode is a conversation about marketing, experimentation and navigating industries where the rules are still being written.Find out more and connect with Riel on LinkedIn.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 217 - April 2026 Special
Episode 217 is the 15th episode of Season 4.We’re back with the April Special featuring Jeremy Johnson, Chief Marketing Officer at Quality Roots as co-host. This month we dig into federal policy shifts, state level dynamics and the broader forces shaping cannabis in 2026. Quick note, we had some connection issues during this recording so the episode is cut a bit short. Appreciate your patience with it.We start with the biggest headline of the month, the year and maybe the decade, the federal government moving medical cannabis to Schedule III. While it marks the first time cannabis is officially recognized as having medical use, it also opens the door to new regulatory oversight and raises questions about where the industry goes from here. From there we touch on Missouri’s crackdown on intoxicating hemp, Virginia’s continued delays in launching retail sales and Indiana’s massive cannabis demand despite full prohibition.We also look at the growing pressure around taxes and market structure, as well as the environmental conversation gaining traction across the industry, from energy intensive indoor cultivation to water use and sustainability concerns for a little Earth Day inspired perspective on the industry.Before we lost connection, we also began discussing recent developments in psychedelics, including the FDA fast tracking multiple therapies for depression and PTSD and new research exploring how psychedelic experiences affect the body beyond the brain. While the conversation was cut short, the direction is clear, increased medical focus, faster regulatory movement and growing interest in how these substances may reshape mental health treatment. You can catch the audio as always on iTunes, Spotify, Audible, YouTube, or at apt113.com.Connect with Jeremy on LinkedIn and visit Quality Roots if you’re in Michigan or New Jersey.Sit down, roll one up, and enjoy the ride.IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 216 - Willy Vlasic, Vlasic Labs
Episode 216 is the 14th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Willy Vlasic, cannabis and hemp entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Vlasic Labs. Willy joins the show to talk about building a modern plant-based wellness brand rooted in one of America’s most recognizable family names and how legacy can evolve into a new industry.We talk about Willy’s path through cultivation, manufacturing and product development before launching Vlasic Labs alongside his father, Rick Vlasic. Willy shares the vision behind creating accessible CBD wellness products, the importance of quality and consistency and what it means to bring an established family brand into the fast-changing hemp and cannabis space.We also discuss the Vlasic Classic Golf Tournament, a charity series raising money and awareness for non-violent cannabis prisoners working to come home and rebuild their lives.This episode is a conversation about entrepreneurship, family legacy and using cannabis business as a vehicle for impact.Find out more at vlasiclabs.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 215 - Jenny Germano, ICS Consulting & Under the Microscope with Jenny
Episode 215 is the 13th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Jenny Germano, Founder and President of ICS Consulting and host of Under the Microscope with Jenny. Jenny is a nationally recognized cannabis compliance expert whose career spans from Colorado’s early medical days to today’s highly regulated multi-state market. She joins the show to talk about compliance, operations and what it really takes to build sustainable cannabis businesses.We talk about Jenny’s transition from a 23-year career in hospitality into cannabis in 2009, her rise to COO of a vertically integrated Denver operation and the lessons she learned from scaling in one of the country’s earliest legal markets. Jenny also shares insights from founding ICS Consulting, advising operators nationwide and working on policy, regulations and licensing efforts across emerging markets.This episode is a conversation about compliance, leadership and navigating one of the most complex industries in America.Find out more at icsconsultingservice.com and underthemicroscopewithjennygermano.podbean.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 214 - Caleb Chen, The Highest Critic
Episode 214 is the 12th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Caleb Chen, cannabis researcher, educator and Founder of The Highest Critic. Caleb joins the show to talk about cannabis genetics, global culture and the importance of preserving diversity in the plant as the modern industry continues to evolve.We talk about his journey from enthusiast to respected reviewer and judge, his work with a worldwide network of cannabis critics and what he has learned from farmers and breeders. Caleb also shares insights from his research in the Emerald Triangle, the role of terroir and sun grown cultivation and why understanding the human history of cannabis is essential to protecting its future.This episode is a conversation about genetics, culture and connoisseurship. Find out more at thehighestcritic.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 213 - Brian Caine, High End Search
Episode 213 is the 11th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Brian Caine, Founder of High End Search and Rad Recruitment, two firms focused on talent acquisition across cannabis, hemp and psychedelics. Brian joins the show to talk about one of the most overlooked challenges in the industry: finding and keeping the right people.We talk about Brian’s background in biotech and recruiting, how those lessons translate into cannabis and why hiring in this industry is uniquely complex. Brian breaks down how systems, automation and AI are changing the way companies approach recruitment, how to identify culture fit beyond a resume and why the right hire at the right time can define a company’s trajectory.This episode is a conversation about talent, systems and building teams that can actually execute in a rapidly evolving industry.Find out more at highendsearch.com and radrecruitment.aiEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 212 - Anna Krishtal, Ketamine Connections Podcast
Episode 212 is the 10th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Anna Krishtal, hypnotherapist, ketamine coach and host of the Ketamine Connections podcast. Anna joins the show to talk about her journey into psychedelic therapy and the work she is doing to help people better understand and integrate ketamine experiences for mental health and personal growth.We talk about Anna’s early experience with psychedelics that reshaped her life, the challenges of navigating transformation without guidance and how that led her to focus on preparation, support and integration. Anna also breaks down how ketamine interacts with the subconscious mind, what the experience can feel like and why integration is the key to making lasting change.This episode is a conversation about healing, self discovery and the evolving role of psychedelics in modern mental health care.Find out more at ketamineconnections.com and www.yourketaminecoach.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 211 - Matthijs Bogerd, The Source - Water Street Grand Opening
Episode 211 is the 9th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Matthijs Bogerd, General Manager of The Source Water Street, a newly opened dispensary in the heart of Henderson, Nevada. Matthijs joins the show to talk about the grand opening of the Water Street location, his approach to retail leadership and what it takes to build a high performing team in today’s cannabis market.We talk about the evolution of Water Street as Henderson’s historic downtown and how the new store fits into a broader revitalization of the area. Matthijs shares his perspective on creating a neighborhood driven retail experience, the importance of staff education and customer trust and how thoughtful store design and merchandising shape the way people interact with cannabis.This episode is a conversation about retail, community and what it means to build something local in an industry that is still finding its identity.Find out more at thesourcenv.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 210 - March 2026 Special
Episode 210 is the 8th episode of Season 4.We’re back with another special featuring Dustin Hoxworth, Founder of Fat Nugs Magazine as co-host. This month we dig into cannabis policy, global models and the economic and cultural forces shaping the industry in 2026.We start in France, where prohibition is becoming more aggressive and more controversial at the same time, raising questions about public safety, enforcement priorities and the collapse of its medical program. From there we look at Uruguay’s Cannabis Social Clubs ten years in, exploring whether they represent a viable middle path between prohibition and corporate cannabis. We then break down Tilray’s acquisition of BrewDog as cannabis companies continue pushing into beverage, and head to New York where lawmakers are considering THC drinks in liquor stores as the line between cannabis and alcohol continues to blur.Next we turn to the growing debate around taxation, from national arguments that excessive taxes are undermining legal markets to Michigan’s move to roll back a new wholesale tax. We also look at new workplace data linking on-the-job cannabis intoxication to injury risk and what that means for evolving employer policy, before closing on emerging research into hemp as a potential renewable energy source.Then in part two we’re joined by Melanie Wentzel to hear more of her story and talk about cannabis in Australia, including patient access, women’s health and the role cannabis may play in the future of global healthcare systems.You can catch the audio as always on iTunes, Spotify, Audible, YouTube, or at apt113.com.Connect with Melanie at melaniewentzel.comSit down, roll one up, and enjoy the ride.IG: apt_113
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Episode 209 - Justin Johnson, Dyspensr & Chill Steel Pipes
Episode 209 is the 7th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Justin Johnson, entrepreneur, marketer and business development strategist with a background spanning digital media, technology and cannabis. Justin is the Founder and CEO of BudsFeed, Managing Partner and Head of Business Development at Dyspensr and Co-Founder of Chill Steel Pipes. He joins the show to talk about brand building, innovation and the evolving world of cannabis accessories and ancillary business.We talk about Justin’s path from working with major brands like American Express, Walmart and Alaska Airlines to building businesses in cannabis. Justin shares the story behind BudsFeed, the vision for Dyspensr as a wholesale marketplace for dispensaries and smoke shops and what he has learned about creating products, partnerships and platforms that help move the cannabis economy forward.This episode is a conversation about entrepreneurship, marketing and building culture around cannabis without ever touching the plant.Find out more at dyspensr.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 208 - Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, Realm of Caring
Episode 208 is the 6th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, Executive Director of Realm of Caring, a national nonprofit focused on research, education and patient access to cannabinoid-based care. Sasha joins the show to talk about the evolving role of cannabis in public health and the work her organization is doing to support patients, caregivers and healthcare providers navigating a rapidly changing landscape.We talk about the gap between patient demand and provider readiness, the challenges created by stigma and limited research and how real-world data is helping shape more informed conversations around cannabinoid therapies. Sasha also shares insights from Realm of Caring’s research partnerships, clinician education programs and the lived experiences of families exploring cannabis for conditions like epilepsy, chronic pain and anxiety.This episode is part of Podcasthon, a global initiative bringing podcasters together to highlight charitable organizations and the work they do to improve lives.Find out more at realmofcaring.org and podcasthon.orgEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 207 - Kristin & Eric Rogers, LEVIA
Episode 207 is the 5th episode of Season 4.Our guests for this episode are Kristin and Eric Rogers, Co-Founders of LEVIA, a Massachusetts-based cannabis beverage brand focused on wellness-forward seltzers and water soluble drink drops designed as an alternative to alcohol. They join the show to talk about building one of the early cannabis beverage brands in the U.S. and the journey of bringing a new consumption format to market.We talk about why they chose the seltzer format, how cannabis beverages compete culturally with alcohol and the realities of educating consumers around fast-onset infused drinks. Kristin and Eric also share the story behind selling LEVIA to Ayr Wellness in 2022 and what they learned from the experience of later reacquiring the brand after regulatory approval returned full control to them in 2026.This episode is a conversation about entrepreneurship, product innovation and the evolving role of cannabis beverages in the adult-use market.Find out more at levia.buzzEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 206 - Pablo Velez, Flower Daddy
Episode 206 is the 4th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Pablo Velez, Founder of Flower Daddy, a Brooklyn-based cannabis dispensary blending art, design and community-forward retail. Pablo is a Colombian immigrant and LGBTQ+ entrepreneur whose journey into the legal cannabis industry came after facing deportation tied to a past cannabis conviction. He joins the show to talk about resilience, second chances and building a business rooted in identity and purpose.We talk about Pablo’s 25 years in New York, the arrest that nearly upended his life and how New York’s social equity licensing program created an unexpected turning point. Pablo shares what it took to get the dispensary opened in Williamsburg, how Flower Daddy is creating safe space for immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community and why showcasing immigrant artists is central to the brand’s mission.This episode is a conversation about ownership, redemption and the cultural power of cannabis to create belonging.Find out more at flowerdaddy.nyc and stop in to visit Flower Daddy in Brooklyn.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.comEpisode 206 is the 4th episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Pablo Velez, Founder of Flower Daddy, a Brooklyn-based cannabis dispensary blending art, design and community-forward retail. Pablo is a Colombian immigrant and LGBTQ+ entrepreneur whose journey into the legal cannabis industry came after facing deportation tied to a past cannabis conviction. He joins the show to talk about resilience, second chances and building a business rooted in identity and purpose.We talk about Pablo’s 25 years in New York, the arrest that nearly upended his life and how New York’s social equity licensing program created an unexpected turning point. Pablo shares what it took to get the dispensary opened in Williamsburg, how Flower Daddy is creating safe space for immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community and why showcasing immigrant artists is central to the brand’s mission.This episode is a conversation about ownership, redemption and the cultural power of cannabis to create belonging.Find out more at flowerdaddy.nyc and stop in to visit Flower Daddy in Brooklyn.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 205 - February 2026 Special
Episode 205 is the 3rd episode of Season 4.We’re back with the February Special featuring Matt Jerome, Founder of Meristem Consulting and Co-Founder of the Connoisseurship Roadshow as co-host. This month we tackle the policy friction, public health signals, and global shifts shaping cannabis in early 2026.We start in Arizona, where a bill would criminalize “excessive” cannabis smoke even on private property, raising questions about enforcement and coexistence in legalized states. From there we break down Missouri’s move to align hemp laws with a looming federal ban, a debate critics say could consolidate power inside the licensed system. Then we look at Kansas, where strong public support for legalization clashes with legislative gridlock as tax dollars continue flowing across the Missouri border.In the second half we zoom out: new data from Canada linking rising cannabis use with anxiety and depression, workplace research challenging assumptions about next-day impairment, Poland’s growing support for depenalization over full legalization, and Europe’s shift from speculation to structured medical markets as France builds a reimbursement framework.You can catch the audio as always on iTunes, Spotify, Audible, YouTube, or at apt113.com.Sit down, roll one up, and enjoy the ride.IG: apt_113
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Episode 204 - Indoor Ag-Con
Episode 204 is the 2nd episode of Season 4.This episode features a recap from Indoor Ag-Con, followed by a short conversation with David Sandelman, CEO and cofounder of Cannatrol, and a check-in with Bluelab.In this episode, we talk about why it matters to see cannabis alongside other controlled environment agriculture crops, and what that shift says about where the industry is headed. We dig into real takeaways from the conference, including mother room biosecurity and HLVd, building genetic libraries that actually fit your operation, and why data and fundamentals matter more than hype.We also explore square foot utilization, energy efficiency, labor realities and the financial pressures shaping indoor cannabis in 2026. David shares insights on post-harvest control and consistency, and we stop by the Bluelab booth on the way out the door. This episode is about fundamentals, efficiency and the future of indoor cannabis.Find out more at indoor.ag.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 203 - Jason Ambrosino, Veterans Choice Creations
Episode 203 is the 1st episode of Season 4.Our guest for this episode is Jason Ambrosino, CEO of Veterans Choice Creations, a New York state cannabis processing and manufacturing company. Jason is a U.S. Army veteran who served for a decade. He joins the show to talk about his life and the journey that led him to Cannabis, including his experiences with plant medicine and how it continues to shape his perspective.We talk about Jason’s time in the military, life after service and how cannabis became part of his personal path. Jason also shares his thoughts on revitalizing America’s small towns, the role Cannabis businesses can play in bringing new life and opportunity to local economies and why values and long-term thinking matter as markets grow.This episode is a grounded conversation about service, plant medicine, and purpose.Find out more at veteranschoicecreations.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 202 - Sean Conley, MTXE Consulting & Merchant Processing
Episode 202 is the 65th episode of Season 3.Our guest for this episode is Sean Conley, CEO of MTXE Consulting & Merchant Processing. He is a longtime operator in payments, SaaS, and cannabis fintech.Sean joins the show to break down one of the least transparent but most critical layers of the cannabis industry: payment processing. With more than a decade of experience building and scaling sales, partnerships, and customer success teams across high-risk industries, Sean explains how cannabis businesses can get setup quickly for payment processing and what it takes to build something sustainable under federal prohibition.We talk about cashless ATM, ACH, POS systems, compliance risk, bank relationships, and why “plug-and-play” payment promises usually fall apart once volume scales. Sean also shares lessons from taking multiple startups from zero to multi-million-dollar revenue, what founders misunderstand about payments early on, and how smart operators can protect margins while staying operationally sane.This episode is a grounded look at payment processing in cannabis.Find out more at mtxeconsulting.comEnjoy the show!
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Episode 201 - Jeff Adams & Joseph Bancheri, XR Pure
Episode 201 is the 64th episode of Season 3.Our guests for this episode are Jeff Adams, Managing Director and Joseph Bancheri, Sales Manager at XRpure, a company building advanced X-ray decontamination systems for cannabis and other high-compliance industries.We dig into why microbial contamination is one of the biggest hidden risks in large-scale cannabis production and how post-harvest decontamination has become a critical step for operators trying to stay compliant, protect consumer health, and preserve product quality. Jeff and Joe break down how XR-based irradiation works, how it differs from traditional remediation methods, and why transparency in post-harvest processing matters more than ever as the industry matures.We also talk about automation, throughput, regulatory pressure, and how scaling cannabis responsibly requires more than just good cultivation. From shelf stability to safety standards, this conversation highlights why decontamination is becoming a permanent piece of the modern cannabis production puzzle.Find out more at xrpure.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 200 - January 2026 Special
Episode 200 is the 63rd episode of Season 3.We’re back with the January Special for Episode 200 of Apartment 113, featuring Matt Jerome, Founder of Meristem Consulting and Co-Founder of the Connoisseurship Roadshow. To mark the milestone, we dig into some of the biggest global cannabis stories shaping the start of 2026.Matt and I break down Germany’s explosive rise in medical cannabis interest, with search traffic jumping more than 200% following legalization changes. We talk about why adult-use reform is actually driving people toward the medical system, how regional politics like Bavaria’s strict enforcement are creating confusion and curiosity, and what this means for public education and access moving forward.We also unpack the chaos in U.S. pricing as mature markets race toward rock-bottom flower prices. From Michigan’s oversupply crash to California flirting with the cheapest ounces in the country, we explore how licensing structures, taxes, and market maturity are reshaping what consumers actually pay at the counter. Then we look north towards Canada’s stabilizing cannabis market, slowing price drops, rising retail sales, and what a maturing national system actually looks like after years of compression.From there we hit Missouri’s crackdown on out-of-state genetics, Texas tightening hemp drink regulations, Chicago banning hemp products while protecting liquor license holders, and the growing pushback against adult-use programs in states like Ohio, Maine, and Massachusetts. Is this about protecting craft cannabis, or is it just another power grab disguised as public health?In the second segment, Dwight Diotte joins the show for a deeper conversation on landraces, genetic preservation, cannabis culture, and how the plant connects to society, history, and human behavior in ways the modern industry often forgets.You can catch the audio as always on iTunes, Spotify, Audible, YouTube, or at apt113.com.Sit down, roll one up, and enjoy the ride.IG: apt_113
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Episode 199 - Josh Rickey, February Fire
Episode 199 is the 62nd episode of Season 3.Our guest for this episode is Josh Rickey, founder of February Fire, Virginia’s homegrown cannabis cup built by and for the local craft community. What started on Reddit through r/RVA_Homegrown has grown into one of the most grassroots-driven cannabis competitions in the region, focused on education, connoisseurship, and community connection.We talk about the origins of February Fire, how homegrowers put their work on the line for real feedback, and why protecting small-scale craft cannabis matters as corporate interests continue to expand. Josh breaks down the event structure, the awards process, and what makes February Fire different from traditional cannabis cups.With the 2026 Awards Celebration set for February 28 at Homegrown VA in Richmond, this conversation highlights how local growers, breeders, and enthusiasts are building something authentic in Virginia’s emerging cannabis culture.Find out more at februaryfire.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 198 - David Sandelman, Cannatrol
Episode 198 is the 61st episode of Season 3.Our guest for this episode is David Sandelman, CTO and Co-Founder of VT Dry & Cure Technologies and the creator of Cannatrol Systems, a company leading the cannabis industry in precision drying, curing, and storage technology. With more than 35 years of experience in HVAC innovation and 17 US patents to his name, he brings serious engineering discipline to one of the most overlooked stages of cannabis production: post-harvest.We talk about the science behind Cannatrol’s patented Vaportrol technology, how vapor pressure control changes terpene preservation and shelf stability, and why drying and curing deserve the same level of precision as cultivation. With more than 14,000 Cannatrol systems now in use worldwide, this conversation dives into consistency, quality control, and how post-harvest innovation is raising the bar for flower across the industry.Find out more at cannatrols.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 197 - Dwight Diotte, D9 Canna Consulting
Episode 197 is the 60th episode of Season 3.We’re joined by Dwight Diotte, a cannabis genetics and research advisor with nearly four decades of experience working at the deepest roots of modern cannabis breeding. Dwight’s career spans the early European seed scene through today’s global cultivation landscape, with a focus on landraces, classic genetics from the 70s through 90s, and preservation over hype.Dwight began breeding cannabis in the mid 1980s and spent more than thirty years working with Nevil Schoenmakers at The Seed Bank, collaborating on foundational projects including some of the earliest ruderalis autoflower work. His background includes seed production, private medical consulting in Amsterdam, and long-term research into haze lines and heirloom cultivars that shaped much of today’s genetics.In this conversation, we talk about phenotype selection, genetic drift, modern breeding pitfalls, and why so much of today’s market has lost touch with historical context. Dwight shares his perspective on preservation, intentional breeding, and what it means to truly understand cannabis genetics beyond yield and branding. This is a grounded and technical discussion rooted in lived experience and deep respect for the plant.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 196 - George Breiwa, Dynavap
Episode 196 is the 59th episode of Season 3.We’re joined by George Breiwa, inventor and founder of DynaVap, the company behind some of the most recognizable battery-free dry herb vaporizers on the market. George’s path into cannabis came from a simple frustration with smoking and a deeper curiosity around how small, efficient, and intentional a vaporization device could actually be.George shares the origin story of DynaVap, from early experimentation to the creation of an entirely new category he calls thermal extraction devices. We talk about separating heat from control, eliminating batteries, preserving flavor, and why modular design matters for both function and personal expression. His approach blends engineering discipline with a strong belief that cannabis consumption should be cleaner, more efficient, and more accessible.The conversation also touches on normalization, the shift away from combustion, and what George hopes to see as cannabis lounges and alternative consumption spaces continue to evolve. With multiple patents across global markets and a hands-on manufacturing philosophy, George offers a grounded perspective on innovation, product development, and building something useful without chasing hype.Find out more at dynavap.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 195 - December 2025 - MJBizcon Part 2
Episode 195 is the 58th episode of Season 3.Part Two of our MJBizCon 2025 series continues with more conversations recorded live from the conference floor in Las Vegas NV. This episode features short-form interviews focused on edibles innovation, craftsmanship, and operational execution, captured in real time amid the pace and pressure of the largest cannabis business conference in the world.Max Vansluys – President, Dialed In GummiesMax Vansluys began his cannabis career as a budtender and now serves as President of Dialed In Gummies, one of the most respected edibles brands in the country. With operations across multiple states, Dialed In is known for its solventless rosin-infused gummies and strong emphasis on consumer education. We talk about scaling without sacrificing quality, why solventless matters, and how retail training plays a critical role in long-term brand success. Find out more at dialedingummies.com.Conlan Keller – Owner, Bonanza Cannabis CompanyConlan Keller is the owner of Bonanza Cannabis Company, a family-owned brand rooted in craftsmanship and consistency. Bonanza produces premium concentrates and edibles with a focus on integrity, people-first values, and community connection. In this conversation, we discuss building a brand that balances heritage with modern execution and what it means to grow deliberately in a competitive market. Find out more at bonanzacannabis.com.Mitch Barton – VP of Transformation, Sun TheoryMitch Barton is a business transformation leader with deep experience across cultivation, manufacturing, and retail operations. With a background in data, analytics, and Lean Six Sigma, Mitch brings a process-driven lens to cannabis operations. We talk about throughput, constraints, and why optimizing the wrong metric can quietly cost operators millions. This conversation focuses on practical execution, not theory. Find out more at suntheory.co.This wraps Part Two of our MJBizCon 2025 coverage. Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.comEpisode 195 is the 58th episode of Season 3.Part Two of our MJBizCon 2025 series continues with more conversations recorded live from the conference floor in Las Vegas NV. This episode features short-form interviews focused on edibles innovation, craftsmanship, and operational execution, captured in real time amid the pace and pressure of the largest cannabis business conference in the world.Max Vansluys – President, Dialed In GummiesMax Vansluys began his cannabis career as a budtender and now serves as President of Dialed In Gummies, one of the most respected edibles brands in the country. With operations across multiple states, Dialed In is known for its solventless rosin-infused gummies and strong emphasis on consumer education. We talk about scaling without sacrificing quality, why solventless matters, and how retail training plays a critical role in long-term brand success. Find out more at dialedingummies.com.Conlan Keller – Owner, Bonanza Cannabis CompanyConlan Keller is the owner of Bonanza Cannabis Company, a family-owned brand rooted in craftsmanship and consistency. Bonanza produces premium concentrates and edibles with a focus on integrity, people-first values, and community connection. In this conversation, we discuss building a brand that balances heritage with modern execution and what it means to grow deliberately in a competitive market. Find out more at bonanzacannabis.com.Mitch Barton – VP of Transformation, Sun TheoryMitch Barton is a business transformation leader with deep experience across cultivation, manufacturing, and retail operations. With a background in data, analytics, and Lean Six Sigma, Mitch brings a process-driven lens to cannabis operations. We talk about throughput, constraints, and why optimizing the wrong metric can quietly cost operators millions. This conversation focuses on practical execution, not theory. Find out more at suntheory.co.This wraps Part Two of our MJBizCon 2025 coverage. Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 194 - December 2025 - MJBizcon Part 1
Episode 194 is the 57th episode of Season 3.Kicking off a two part series featuring conversations directly from the conference floor of MJ Bizcon 2025 in Las Vegas NV, bringing real-time perspectives from operators, innovators, and leaders shaping the cannabis industry. This episode features short-form interviews focused on packaging, payments, and brand execution, recorded amid the energy and chaos of the largest cannabis business conference in the world.Simon Knobel – Co-Founder and CEO, Calyx ContainersSimon Knobel is the Co-Founder and CEO of Calyx Containers, a cannabis packaging company built around terpene preservation and material science. Inspired by the calyx of the cannabis plant itself, Simon breaks down how purpose-built packaging can protect potency, aroma, and brand integrity. We talk about why cannabis packaging should be engineered specifically for the plant, not adapted from other industries, and how Calyx has helped set early standards across legal markets. Find out more at calyxcontainers.comMichael Andrud – CEO, LütMichael Andrud is the CEO of Lüt, a modern payments platform serving both traditional and high-risk industries. With deep experience in banking, data, and financial technology, Michael shares how alternative payment rails, real-time payments, and closed-loop systems are reshaping commerce for cannabis operators. This conversation focuses on access, compliance, and what realistic payment solutions look like today. Find out more at mylut.com.Katie Mattox – VP of Marketing, SpherexKatie Mattox is the Vice President of Marketing at Spherex, a Colorado-based cannabis extraction company known for premium vapes and concentrates. We discuss compliant brand building, in-store presence, event marketing, and how science-forward products translate to consumer trust. Katie shares insights on balancing creativity with regulation in a competitive retail environment. Find out more at wearespherex.comPart Two continues the conversation with more voices from the show floor tomorrow, enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 193 - Carol Tyson, Jaunty
Episode 193 is the 56th episode of Season 3.Our guest is Carol Tyson, Director of Marketing at Jaunty, a New York based cannabis brand best known for its presence in the state’s vape category. Carol works across field marketing, retail partnerships and trade marketing, with a focus on brand execution in a regulated market.In this episode, we discuss practical marketing topics including retail relationships, wholesale strategy, event marketing and the realities of building brand visibility in New York’s adult use cannabis landscape.Find out more at jaunty.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 192 - Ian Pedersen, Source CBD
Episode 192 is the 55th episode of Season 3.Our guest today is Ian Pedersen, Chief Executive Officer of Source CBD, a nationally recognized hemp product development company based in Sedona, Arizona. Ian has spent more than a decade building Source CBD into a trusted brand in the non-psychoactive cannabis space with a focus on quality, transparency and science-driven formulation.Source CBD develops a wide range of products including tinctures, chocolates, salves and vape liquids, while also providing white label product development for brands entering the hemp and herbal supplement markets. Ian brings a deep background in cannabis, consulting, genetics, development and regulatory navigation informed by years of hands on work across cultivation, product development and market research.In this episode, we talk about the evolution of the CBD market, product integrity, consumer education and what it takes to build trust in a crowded wellness category. Ian also shares insight into how science and storytelling intersect in hemp and cannabis product development.Learn more at sourcecbdhemp.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 191 - Jared Penner, Mobius Trimmer
Episode 191 is the 54th episode of Season 3.Our guest today is Jared Penner Sales Leader at Mobius, a Vancouver-based manufacturer of post harvest cannabis and hemp processing equipment that has helped redefine efficiency without sacrificing quality. At Mobius, Jared focuses on building real relationships with cultivators and processors while helping them solve some of the most persistent challenges in post harvest operations.Mobius made its mark with the release of the M108 trimmer and has since expanded its lineup to include buckers sorters and milling solutions designed for commercial scale operators who still care deeply about craft outcomes. Their work sits at the intersection of technology workflow and people, helping teams maintain product integrity while improving throughput profitability and consistency.In this episode, we talk about the realities of post harvest processing, why trimming is often the make or break moment for quality, and how thoughtful automation can support craft cannabis rather than erase it. Jared brings a practical, grounded perspective shaped by time spent in facilities listening first and designing solutions second.Learn more at mobiustrimmer.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 190 - Angelique Zerillo, The North Bloom Magazine
Episode 190 is the 53rd episode of Season 3.Our guest today is Angelique Zerillo, founder and editor of Bloom, a cannabis lifestyle magazine dedicated to guiding readers toward a healthier state of being. Bloom celebrates the people, products, and culture shaping modern cannabis, with a focus on education, wellness, and community.Angelique brings a thoughtful, grounded perspective to the conversation about normalization and conscious consumption. Through Bloom, she highlights local stories and approachable insights that help consumers connect with the plant in meaningful ways. Her work bridges design, storytelling, and advocacy, creating a publication that feels as authentic as it is aspirational.We talk about building a modern cannabis media brand, why storytelling matters in shaping perception, and how Bloom is helping readers navigate the space with clarity and confidence.Learn more at thenorthbloom.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 189 - Zach Michelson, KANHA
Episode 189 is the 52nd episode of Season 3.Our guest today is Zach Michelson, Chief Operating Officer at Sunderstorm, the parent company of KANHA, one of the nation’s leading edible brands. Zach brings a background in environmental science and operations management to the cannabis space, where he helps lead KANHA’s expansion into new markets and maintain its reputation for consistency and innovation.Founded in California in 2015, KANHA has become known for its precise formulations, natural ingredients and commitment to wellness-driven products. The company pioneered the first fast-acting edible and continues to set standards for safety, flavor and reliability. With operations now spanning multiple states and even Thailand, KANHA’s mission is to blend science, nature and joy into every experience.We talk with Zach about scaling quality across borders, staying true to a wellness ethos in a competitive market and what it takes to run one of the most recognizable edible brands in cannabis.Learn more at kanhatreats.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 188 - Apt 113 Special - November 2025
Episode 188 is the 51st episode of Season 3.We’re back with the November 2025 Monthly Special for episode 188 of Apartment 113 featuring Co-Host Dustin Hoxworth, Founder of Fat Nugs Magazine. This month we break down one of the most dramatic turns the industry has seen in years as the federal government moves to ban intoxicating hemp products and reshape the national market from top to bottom. We walk through the new definition of hemp the 0.4 milligram THC limits the fallout across brands and states and what might happen before the rule takes effect in late 2026.We also take a close look at Missouri’s statewide investigation into unregulated hemp shops along with the latest legislative updates from Florida Massachusetts and Kentucky. From Glass House Farms reporting twenty six million in lost revenue to the Omaha Tribe rolling out its medical program to Brazil launching a twelve year national cannabis research initiative there is no shortage of big stories shaping the global landscape right now.And before we wrap up I share a rundown of my plans for MJ BizCon as we get ready for another year in Vegas and another wave of conversations shaping where the industry goes next.You can catch the audio as always on iTunes Spotify Audible, YouTube or apt113.comSit down roll one up and enjoy the ride.IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 187 - Stacy Litke, Green Check Verified
Episode 187 is the 50th episode of Season 3.Our guest today is Stacy Litke, Vice President of Banking Programs at Green Check Verified, a leading fintech platform connecting cannabis businesses with trusted financial institutions. With more than two decades of experience in banking operations and technology, Stacy helps bridge the gap between cannabis operators and compliant financial services.In this episode we unpack the payments landscape for dispensaries and cannabis businesses. Stacy breaks down what options are actually available today, how compliance fits into every transaction, and where innovation is heading next. The conversation offers a rare inside look at how money really moves in the regulated cannabis economy and what Green Check Verified is doing to make it safer, smarter and more transparent.Learn more at greencheckverified.comEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 186 - Colin Fraser, Upling
Episode 186 is the 49th episode of Season 3.Our guest today is Colin Fraser, founder and CEO of Upling, the first Black-owned delivery-focused cannabis app. Colin’s journey from survivor and returning citizen to entrepreneur and health equity advocate has shaped a mission rooted in accessibility and empowerment. What began as a personal response to his mother’s struggle with healthcare has grown into a platform reimagining how patients connect with cannabis.Upling recently introduced Bud-E, an AI-powered tool that uses patient health data to make personalized cannabis recommendations. The feature brings precision medicine to the cannabis experience, helping patients find the right strains for their specific needs. With service across Washington, D.C. and Maryland, Colin’s vision blends technology, compassion and lived experience to bridge gaps in care and equity.We talk about second chances, tech for social impact and the future of personalized cannabis.Learn more at upling.appEnjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 185 - Jordan Isenstadt, Marino PR
Episode 185 is the 48th episode of Season 3.Our guest today is Jordan Isenstadt, Senior Vice President at Marino, a leading strategic communications and public affairs agency working in cannabis. Jordan oversees campaigns across cannabis, higher education and labor and brings more than twenty years of experience spanning government, nonprofit and corporate sectors. He is known for shaping narratives that influence policy decisions and elevate brands in competitive regulated markets.Jordan is also the creator of Jews in Weed and their networking event series called Bagel Bash that mixes community, connection and carbs. The Bagel Bash has become a must attend gathering during MJBizCon featuring bagels caffeine and a room full of founders and operators who show up to schmooze, laugh and make deals before noon.In this episode Jordan shares insights into building community driven industry moments and why good storytelling remains the most powerful tool in cannabis.Find out more at MarinoPR.com and get your tickets to this year’s Bagel Bash in Las Vegas Dec 4th 8-11AM. Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 184 - Jeremy Shechter, Open Source Horticulture
Episode 184 is the 47th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Jeremy Shechter, founder of Open Source Horticulture, a consulting and project management firm focused on advancing modern cultivation and controlled environment agriculture. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, Jeremy brings over a decade of experience leading large-scale horticultural operations and cannabis facility projects across the country.Before launching Open Source Horticulture, Jeremy served as COO at Bickel Consulting and VP of Operations at Buckeye Relief, where he oversaw facility design, expansion, and performance optimization. With a background in engineering from The Ohio State University, he combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of systems, data, and process efficiency.At Open Source Horticulture, Jeremy’s mission is to revolutionize how cultivation facilities are built and managed, through transparency, collaboration, and data-driven solutions that help operators grow smarter and more sustainably.Learn more at opensourcehorticulture.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 183 - Apt 113 Special - October 2025
Episode 183 is the 46th episode of Season 3.We’re back with the October 2025 Monthly Special for episode 183 of Apartment 113. This month, we head to the mountains of Colorado for a conversation with Jimmy Brinkerhoff of Edun, a family-run cannabis company rooted in the land and built on a passion for natural farming.We’ll explore how the Brinkerhoff Family Farm combines horticultural experience with regenerative, no-till cultivation, blending old-world agricultural wisdom with modern greenhouse innovation. From living soils rich with native microbes to a deep respect for the plant and the planet, Edun is cultivating cannabis as it was meant to be, pure, intentional and alive.Jimmy’s vision for Edun is simple but profound: bring the craft back to cannabis. His approach champions sustainability, integrity, and the belief that great flower starts with great soil. What began as a family experiment in clean cultivation has grown into a movement that’s redefining what conscious cannabis can be in Colorado and beyond.You can catch the audio as always on iTunes, Spotify, Audible, or apt113.com, and you can also watch the full episode on YouTube along with our other monthly specials.Find out more about Edun at Edun.co and follow them on Instagram at @edun.educationSit down, roll one up, and enjoy the ride.IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 182 - Daniel Crawford, Fat Nugs Magazine
Episode 182 is the 45th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Daniel Crawford, COO at Fat Nugs Magazine a cultivator, extractor, writer and advocate for quality cannabis. Known as the “Terpene Whisperer,” Daniel brings over two decades of cultivation and sensory expertise shaped by his work in pharma, dairy, brewing and organic farming.Since 2019, Daniel has helped elevate connoisseurship and education within the regulated market, merging passion with professionalism. In this episode we talk about judging cannabis, Daniel’s next role and what it really means to be a connoisseur in today’s industry. Beyond his technical skill, Daniel’s work reflects a deep commitment to community, mentorship and authenticity.Follow Daniel on LinkedIn and learn more at fatnugsmag.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 181 - Shawn Pastian, Barefoot Hash
Episode 181 is the 44th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Shawn Pastian, better known as Barefoot Hash — a soil builder, organic grower, hashishin, educator and co-founder of Big Green Pharm in Dillwyn, Virginia. Shawn’s journey with cannabis began as personal curiosity and evolved into a lifelong calling centered on cultivation, education and healing.After years immersed in Southern Oregon’s multigenerational cannabis culture, he honed his craft as a high-quality hash maker and teacher dedicated to preserving the art and integrity of solventless extraction. Through Barefoot Hash, he approaches hash making as an art form, blending intuition, science and deep respect for the plant. At Big Green Pharm, he’s continuing that mission while developing Oil-Can, his cannabis root-based pain salve, and creating a community space for workshops, events and connection.In this episode we talk about regenerative growing, the spiritual and medicinal sides of cannabis, and what it means to live in rhythm with the plant. Shawn’s story is rooted in authenticity and a deep love for the land — the kind of passion that reminds us why we fell in love with this industry in the first place.Follow Shawn on Instagram at @barefoothash.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 180 - Blaine Hatab, Distru
Episode 180 is the 43rd episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Blaine Hatab, CEO and co-founder of Distru, one of the cannabis industry’s leading software platforms. Distru helps cannabis operators manage inventory, orders and distribution across multiple facilities in one streamlined system. Built specifically for the complexities of the legal market, it’s become a go-to SaaS solution for brands, manufacturers and distributors looking to stay compliant while scaling efficiently.Blaine’s background blends technology, entrepreneurship and a passion for building infrastructure that moves the cannabis space forward. What started as an idea to simplify logistics has evolved into a platform powering some of the biggest names in the industry.In this episode we talk about the early days of cannabis tech, the unique challenges of building software for a heavily regulated market and what it takes to stay ahead as the space professionalizes. Blaine also shares his perspective on leadership, innovation and where technology is taking the cannabis supply chain next.Learn more at distru.com and connect with Blaine on LinkedIn.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 179 - Giancarlo Pinto, NYCBud
Episode 179 is the 42nd episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Giancarlo Pinto, co-founder of NYC Bud, a family of dispensaries redefining cannabis retail through design, culture, and a distinctly New York sensibility. From their first Long Island City location styled like a subway station, to their new Midtown shop modeled after Grand Central Station itself, NYC Bud blends cannabis with the architecture and energy of the city that raised it.Giancarlo and his business partner Jonpaul Pezzo built their vision out of Queens roots and New York nightlife, creating stores that feel more like art installations than dispensaries. Interactive touches—like departure boards for order status and “ticket window” budtenders—turn shopping into an experience that’s playful, immersive, and uniquely New York.In this episode, we talk about what it means to build dispensaries that reflect the culture of a city, how design can change the way people experience cannabis, and what’s next for NYC Bud as they continue to grow. For Giancarlo, cannabis retail isn’t just business—it’s about honoring the backdrop of New York while keeping cannabis accessible, communal, and a little less serious.Follow Giancarlo on LinkedIn and learn more at nycbud.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 178 - Apt 113 Special - September 2025
Episode 178 is the 41st episode of Season 3.We’re back with the September 2025 Monthly Special for episode 178 of Apartment 113. This month we dive deep into the psychedelic frontier where ancient rituals meet cutting-edge science, and where new research is rewriting everything we thought we knew about the mind.We’ll explore how AI-designed compounds like Mindstate Design Labs’ MSD-001 promise the healing without the hallucinatory trip, how groundbreaking brain research out of Michigan shows psychedelics rewire far more neurons than we ever imagined, and how simple breathwork may unlock psychedelic states without the medicine at all. We’ll also look back to the ancient Chavín of the Andes, who used plant medicine as a tool of power, and forward to Ohio State’s long-term psilocybin study showing depression relief that lasts for years. And las but not least, we’ll preview Psychedelic Awakening 2025 in Los Angeles, where I’ll be MCing the stage, moderating panels, and presenting on hermetic wisdom in the psychedelic age.You can catch the audio as always on iTunes, Spotify, Audible, or apt113.com, and you can also watch the full episode on YouTube along with our other monthly specials.Sit down, roll one up—or breathe deep—and enjoy the ride. Join us Oct 2nd-4th and grab your tickets at Psychedelic-Awakening.comIG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 177 - Sergio Martinez, Blimburn Seeds
Episode 177 is the 40th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Sergio Martinez, founder and CEO of Blimburn Seeds, one of the world’s leading cannabis seed companies. Based in Barcelona, Sergio has spent the last two decades building Blimburn into a global name synonymous with quality genetics, innovation, and a deep respect for cannabis culture.Sergio’s path into cannabis was anything but linear. He began his career in the European fashion industry before making the leap into cultivation supplies, eventually transforming a wholesale company into BBG Projects and the Blimburn brand. Today, Blimburn is known worldwide for producing elite cannabis genetics, carefully bred from clones that have taken home trophies at competitions like the High Times Cannabis Cup.With operations expanding across Europe and the U.S.—including new warehouses in California and New York—Blimburn is pushing the home-grower movement forward. Sergio sees personal cultivation not only as the future of cannabis, but as the heart of its culture.In this episode, we talk about the evolution of cannabis breeding, what it takes to build a global lifestyle brand around seeds, the importance of genetic preservation, and how U.S. home-grow culture is shaping up to be the next big wave.Learn more at blimburnseeds.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 176 - Will Read, CannaPlanners
Episode 176 is the 39th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Will Read, Founder & CEO of CannaPlanners, a creative agency dedicated to helping dispensaries and cannabis brands thrive through thoughtful design, marketing, and digital strategy. Since 2015, Will has been focused on normalization in cannabis—using branding and storytelling to elevate businesses and connect with consumers in meaningful ways.At CannaPlanners, the mission is simple but ambitious: to professionalize the cannabis industry through design and strategy while keeping things authentic, approachable, and human. From custom websites and SEO to loyalty marketing and brand development, Will and his team have built a reputation for helping cannabis companies not only sell more, but also stand out in a crowded, regulated market.In this episode, Will shares his journey from early days in cannabis entrepreneurship to building an agency that blends creativity with compliance. We dig into why design matters in cannabis, what makes great branding click, and how CannaPlanners balances professionalism with a little bit of fun along the way.Follow Will on LinkedIn and learn more at cannaplanners.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 175 - Wes Shepard, Hoodie Analytics
Episode 175 is the 38th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Wes Shepherd, Co-Founder of Hoodie Analytics, a company redefining how cannabis data is tracked, shared, and put to work. A lifelong entrepreneur with over two decades in SaaS and software-enabled services, Wes has built and led businesses at the intersection of technology, data, and market strategy.At Hoodie, Wes and his team have created the world’s largest repository of daily cannabis product pricing and assortment, offering unmatched visibility into retail performance. Their platform helps brands, retailers, and investors understand the cannabis market in real time—from sales velocity and product presence to inventory management and out-of-stock tracking.In this episode, Wes talks about the value of clean, structured data in an industry still finding its footing, how Hoodie was born out of his work at Unifyd, and why better analytics are key to building sustainable growth across the cannabis supply chain. It’s a conversation about data, entrepreneurship, and what it really takes to make sense of a fragmented market.Follow Wes on LinkedIn and explore Hoodie Analytics at hoodieanalytics.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 174 - Drew Tybus, Oak PR
Episode 174 is the 37th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Drew Tybus, founder of Oak PR, a communications agency built on strategy-first thinking and deep influence. With a career spent shaping brand narratives and driving growth through media, events, and influencer marketing, Drew has become a trusted voice in building consumer brands that break through the noise.At Oak PR, Drew and his team work across media relations, thought leadership, and experiential campaigns, helping clients not just earn coverage but create conversations that matter. From intimate press dinners to large-scale activations, Oak PR is known for turning ideas into moments that move markets.In this episode, Drew shares insights from years of brand-building—what it really takes to connect with consumers, how connoisseur marketing is evolving and how strategy remains the foundation of great storytelling.Follow Drew on LinkedIn and learn more at oakpr.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 173 - Rama Mayo, Hall of Flowers
Episode 173 is the 36th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Rama Mayo, co-founder of Hall of Flowers and a driving force behind some of the most influential platforms in cannabis, music, and culture. From running the legendary indie label Big Wheel Recreation in the ’90s and early 2000s — home to bands like Jimmy Eat World, At The Drive-In, and The (International) Noise Conspiracy — to building global campaigns for brands like Disney, Pepsi, and Beats by Dre, Rama’s career has always sat at the crossroads of creativity and community.In cannabis, he’s the visionary behind Hall of Flowers, the trade show that redefined how brands and retailers connect, as well as Green Street, a cultural agency and building in downtown Los Angeles he co-founded with Gary Vaynerchuk. Across all of it, his work reflects a punk rock ethos, positive mental attitude, and a willingness to fail fast to keep moving forward.In this episode, we talk about Rama’s journey from the DIY music scene to shaping cannabis culture at scale, why branding and storytelling matter as much as product, and how enthusiasm and authenticity can carry you further than credentials ever could.Follow Rama on LinkedIn and learn more at hallofflowers.com.Join him at the next Hall of Flowers in Santa Rosa, California on September 10th & 11th. Get your tickets here!Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.comramamayo.com
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Episode 172 - Apt 113 Special - August 2025
Episode 172 is the 35th episode of Season 3. We’re back with the August 2025 Monthly Special for episode 172 of Apartment 113. This episode features Dustin Hoxworth as cohost, founder of Fat Nugs Magazine where we hang out and unpack the latest in cannabis news and headlines for this month. You can catch the audio as always on iTunes, Spotify, Audible, or apt113.com, and you can also watch the full episode on YouTube along with our other monthly specials. Sit down, roll one up, and enjoy the ride. Thank you to our sponsors and supporters: Fat Nugs Magazine – fatnugsmag.com Green Lane Communication - greenlanecommunication.com Bite Me the Show about Edibles - bitemepodcast.com IG: apt_113 apt113.com
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Episode 171 - Ben Burstein, LeafLink
Episode 171 is the 34th episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Ben Burstein, Corporate Development Manager at LeafLink, where he manages mergers & acquisitions, industry research, and strategic partnerships for one of the largest B2B platforms in cannabis. Ben’s work helps shape the business landscape behind the scenes, connecting operators, investors, and partners in a rapidly shifting market.Before joining LeafLink, Ben built his career in finance and cannabis investment, with experience at Citi Equity Research and Tuatara Capital. A graduate of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, he’s been featured as an industry commentator on outlets like ABC, FOX, NPR, and Cannabis Business Times.In this episode, we talk about how LeafLink approaches consolidation in the space, the trends driving M&A activity, and what it means to build long-term partnerships in a fragmented market. Ben offers a look into the strategy side of cannabis, the deals, data, and decisions that shape the future of the industry.Follow Ben on LinkedIn and learn more at leaflink.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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Episode 170 - Jeff Miller, HoneyProjects
Episode 170 is the 33rd episode of Season 3.We’re joined today by Jeff Miller, CEO of HoneyProjects and one of the visionaries reshaping New Jersey’s cannabis market. A Peabody Award winning documentarian turned cannabis entrepreneur, Jeff’s journey into the industry is both personal and purposeful rooted in his own use of cannabis to manage depression and anxiety, and sparked by a documentary project that ultimately inspired him to build something bigger.Since 2016, Jeff has grown HoneyProjects into a family of award-winning ventures, including HoneyGrove, named 2024 Dispensary of the Year by Cannademix and the newly opened HoneyStash. HoneyStash isn’t just another shop; it’s a community hub blending craft cannabis, local art, and wellness.In this episode, we talk about New Jersey’s evolving cannabis landscape, why supporting small-batch producers matters, how storytelling translates into retail, and what the future looks like at the intersection of cannabis, psychedelics, and culture. Jeff’s approach is authentic, community-focused, and deeply committed to showing what cannabis can achieve when done differently.Follow Jeff on LinkedIn and learn more at honey-projects.com.Enjoy the show!IG: apt_113apt113.com
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Hang out at Apartment 113 with Rob and a different guest to talk shop about the industry and learn about all of the people that make it possible. Cultivation, manufacturing, extraction, accounting, consulting, media, events, education and more. Listen in for a conversational look at the origins of different businesses and projects in the space along with unique perspectives and occasional tangents.
HOSTED BY
Rob Sanchez
CATEGORIES
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