Under the Microscope with Jenny

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano continues the Cannabis Operator Series with Forest Palmer, CEO of Kansas City Cannabis. Forest shares his journey from the service industry and the United States Marine Corps into cannabis, including his early work with American Shaman before joining Kansas City Cannabis during the launch of the Missouri medical market. He walks through the early licensing process, the intense application work behind it, and how his team secured four of five dispensary licenses, later winning an appeal for a Kansas City location. Jenny and Forest discuss building a dispensary-first strategy without vertical integration, navigating early supply constraints, and adapting to Missouri’s transition to adult use in 2023. They also cover compliance, vendor relationships, operational lessons learned, and how systems evolved through real-world challenges. A major focus of the conversation is culture. Forest shares how Kansas City Cannabis built a people-first operating model centered on training, internal promotions, community connection, and performance bonuses tied to customer experience. That approach has helped create strong retention, low turnover, and a workplace culture built for long-term growth. This episode offers practical insight for operators on licensing, scaling, compliance, and building a strong team in a competitive and evolving market.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Forest Palmer, CEO of Kansas City Cannabis 🌎 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://kccannabis.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 01:13 Forest Intro & Early Career Roots 02:29 Breaking into Missouri Cannabis 04:18 Application Grind & Strategy 06:36 Winning Licenses & Team Culture 08:29 Dispensary Strategy Without Being Vertical 10:38 People First Operating Model 16:37 Medical Market Matures 18:13 Adult Use Arrives & Supply Chain Crunch 26:19 Operational Hurdles & Lessons 29:19 Opening Timeline & Growth 31:25 Community First Strategy 35:09 Regulations Compliance Reality 37:56 Pricing Cap Licenses 40:28 Packaging Headaches 41:45 Building The Best Workplace 46:04 Advice For New Operators 50:02 Sweat Equity & Building Generational Wealth 54:58 Final Thoughts & Wrap up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano, welcomes Alex Hearding, President and Founder of Red Wolf Risk, to discuss the hidden costs of operating a cannabis facility without a Quality Management System (QMS). Alex explains how a QMS creates accountability, consistency, and continuous improvement while helping operators strengthen compliance, training, and traceability. Jenny and Alex break down why cannabis businesses are especially vulnerable to recalls, contamination, financing challenges, and costly inefficiencies when systems are weak or disconnected. The conversation also covers common warning signs operators should look for, including poor document control, weak equipment maintenance programs, lack of input traceability, missing training systems, unresolved customer complaints, and no formal CAPA process to fix root causes. This episode delivers practical insight for operators looking to reduce risk, improve efficiency, and build a stronger cannabis business.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Alex Hearding, President and Founder of Red Wolf Risk 🌎𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://redwolfrisk.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 00:53 Intro Alex Hearding 03:14 What QMS Really Means 05:54 Self Regulation Mindset 10:33 Why Cannabis Is Vulnerable 16:48 Real Costs Without QMS 31:01 QMS as Compliance Hub 32:12 Culture Built on Systems 39:03 Operational Red Flags 40:32 CAPA & Root Cause Fixes 45:30 GMP Ready Reality Check 49:44 Future Proofing with Compliance 53:01 Consumer Safety & Contamination 54:53 Final Takeaways & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.    

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano sits down with Will Read, Founder and CEO of CannaPlanners, to break down how cannabis operators should approach marketing in today’s saturated market. Will shares his journey building CannaPlanners from early hemp and CBD projects into a full-scale agency supporting cannabis brands with websites, SEO and retention marketing. Together, they focus on a key reality that operators are not just selling products, they are selling an experience, and that a brand and digital presence need to be built before launch. They cover what actually moves the needle, including local SEO, a responsive and mobile friendly website, managing reviews, and using email and SMS for measurable retention. The conversation also highlights common pitfalls, including the real risks operators face when cutting corners, like poor website compliance, copyright issues, fragmented marketing efforts, and over reliance on paid ads in restricted channels. This episode delivers practical, no fluff insight on building a compliant, effective marketing strategy that drives traffic and keeps customers coming back.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁:  Will Read, Founder and CEO of CannaPlanners 🌎𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://cannaplanners.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰  01:13 Will Read Intro 05:03 Why Branding Matters 09:20 Market Panic & Survival 13:38 Selling Experience, Not Weed 18:21 Terpenes & Education Shift 21:48 Packaging Meets Compliance 24:31 Website Pitfalls 29:23 ADA Compliance Reality 29:35 SEO Matters Most 36:12 Reviews Drive Rankings 39:25 Retention, Email & Text 41:23 META Shadow Bans Cannabis 46:15 Marketing Spend Mistakes 49:03 New vs Mature Markets 50:58 Final Words & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano, sits down with Founder and of RZA Legal, Rachael Ardanuy to unpack the evolving and highly complex conflict between state-legal cannabis use and federal firearm restrictions. Jenny and Rachael break down how the federal Gun Control Act and ATF firearm purchase forms currently pose real risks for cannabis consumers, including denial of firearm purchases or potential felony exposure for false statements. They walk through how this issue is being challenged in the courts, particularly following the New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen decision, which shifted Second Amendment analysis toward historical tradition and opened the door for new legal arguments. The conversation also explores key cases shaping the landscape, including United States v. Hemani and United States v. Daniels, highlighting how courts are increasingly focusing on concepts like “dangerousness” and “temporal nexus” when evaluating firearm restrictions tied to controlled substance use. Jenny and Rachael bring it back to real-world implications for cannabis operators and consumers. They discuss the confidentiality of the state’s medical marijuana registry, the lack of employee protections following Colorado - Coats v. Dish Network, and what cannabis businesses should be thinking about when it comes to workplace firearm policies, security practices, and liability exposure. They also touch on the legacy of the Cole Memo, ongoing federal enforcement priorities, and a current opportunity for public comment on ATF proposed rule changes that could further clarify how “unlawful user” is defined regarding marijuana. This episode is a must-listen for cannabis operators, employees, and consumers looking to better understand the legal risks at the intersection of cannabis and firearms and how to navigate an increasingly shifting regulatory and constitutional landscape.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁:  Rachael Ardanuy, Founder of RZA Legal 🌎𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://www.rzalegal.com   𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 “𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗨𝘀𝗲𝗿"   https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/01/22/2026-01141/revising-definition-of-unlawful-user-of-or-addicted-to-controlled-substance#open-comment   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰  00:48 Meet Rachael Ardanuy  01:39 Federal Law Meets Second Amendment  03:42 Bruen Case Explained  10:24 Supreme Court Hemani Case  13:03 Gun Control Act Basics  16:48 ATF Proposed Rule Changes  18:13 Medical Patients and Registry Fears  28:06 Operators & Business Exposure  28:40 Firearms at Dispensaries  29:47 Transporters and Armed Security  38:13 Workplace Firearm Policies  43:08 Cole Memo & Federal Priorities  46:42 Best Practices &  Wrap-Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano, sits down with Chris Van Dyke, Partner at Cogent Law, to break down one of the most complex and often misunderstood areas of the cannabis industry: banking. Chris brings a rare, dual-perspective background, having helped launch one of the early cannabis banking programs and serving as a state regulator during the rollout of the 2014 FinCEN guidance. Today, he advises banks and credit unions on how to safely and effectively serve cannabis-related businesses (CRB’s). Together, Jenny and Chris unpack the fundamentals defining key terms like BSA (Bank Secrecy Act), and SARs (Suspicious Activity Reports) while exploring the shared compliance burden between operators and financial institutions. They walk through the real risks banks face, particularly around BSA/AML compliance, and why many institutions remain cautious despite growing demand. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about cannabis banking, the evolving regulatory landscape, and why financial institutions are increasingly entering the space from fee-based revenue opportunities to portfolio diversification and long-term customer loyalty. Jenny and Chris dive into practical guidance for operators, including how to vet a cannabis-friendly bank, what to expect during onboarding and due diligence, and how to position your business as a low-risk, transparent customer. This episode is a must listen for operators looking to secure and maintain strong banking relationships, reduce compliance risk, and better understand how financial institutions are navigating the cannabis industry behind the scenes.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁:   Chris Van Dyke, Partner at Cogent Law 🌎𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://cogentlaw.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 01:05 Chris Intro & Background 04:53 Defining CRB’s & Indirect CRB’s 07:50 Shared Compliance Burdens 13:24 BSA & SAR Definitions  15:06 Misconceptions about Cannabis Banking & Progress 20:23 Stigma Shifts & Rescheduling 23:11 Three Circles of Risk 25:41 FinCEN Guidance 26:40 Why Banks Bank Cannabis 29:20 Hemp Banking Uncertainty 32:32 Vetting Your Cannabis Bank 36:24 CRB Onboarding & Due Diligence 37:55 Deposits, Lending & Underwriting 40:13 MSO Versus Small Operator Risk 42:25 Being a Transparent CRB Customer 46:49 Avoid Banking Relationship Pitfalls 48:38 Final Tips & Wrap-Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano sits down with Dina Nagib, Principal Consultant at Grass Goddess Consulting, to break down one of the biggest operational pain points in cannabis - software overload. Dina brings a unique perspective from her background in pharmaceuticals and software development. Together, Jenny and Dina explore why dispensaries in particular face a heavy software burden, managing everything from POS systems and e-commerce to marketing tools and state track-and-trace systems like Metrc. They walk through the software categories every operator encounters, including payroll systems, product ordering platforms, and analytics tools while highlighting the real risks of overcomplicating your tech stack. Jenny and Dina also talk about how to properly vet software vendors and why understanding your data structure is critical. They discuss the dangers of fragmented, non-integrated systems, the risks associated with switching POS platforms, and how poor integration can create compliance and operational gaps. This episode delivers practical, real-world guidance to help operators simplify their systems, stay compliant, and make smarter technology decisions as they scale.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁:  Dina Nagib, Principal Consultant at Grass Goddess Consulting LLC.  🌎𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://www.grassgoddessconsulting.com     ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 01:19 Meet Dina Najeeb 03:47 Why Software Overwhelms 05:52 Core Software Categories 07:38 Compliance & Traceability 10:41 Essential vs Nice to Have 13:41 Demo Prep Reality Check 16:46 Switching POS and Data Risks 22:48 All-in-One vs Stack 25:38 Integration Risk Concerns 26:01 Choosing Software Wisely 28:38 Evaluating Data Structure 29:48 Demo Red Flags 32:26 Fragmented Data Problems 46:05 Simple Software Advice 50:08 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up     𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.      

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano, welcomes Amanda Eastling, Founder of Eastling Services. Amanda shares her path into cannabis HR, starting with a Minnesota-based, tribally owned cannabis startup where she built HR systems from the ground up developing policies, procedures, and operational frameworks tailored to the industry’s unique and highly regulated environment. Together, they unpack the complexities of cannabis HR, including layered compliance across state, federal, and tribal jurisdictions, employee badging and background checks. The conversation dives into the must-have HR policies every operator should have in place such as attendance and call-out procedures to technology use, recording restrictions, and security protocols around phones and restricted areas. Jenny and Amanda tackle common HR pitfalls, recordkeeping requirements including employee file retention and proper I-9 storage. As businesses scale, they highlight the importance of building HR systems that grow with the company, including benefits planning and staying aligned with legal counsel and regulatory expectations. This episode is a practical, no-nonsense guide to building compliant, scalable HR systems in cannabis while still protecting company culture and setting your team up for long-term success.     🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Amanda Eastling, Founder of Eastling Services 🌎𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗲𝗱𝗜𝗻: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-eastling   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 00:47 Intro Amanda Eastling 04:29 Compliance & Labor Laws 07:28 Must-Have HR Policies 14:49 Onboarding Systems 18:13 Training & Retention 23:38 Promote from Within 26:55 Avoiding HR Mistakes 28:14 Impairment on the Job 28:50 No Consumption on Premises 33:23 Compliance & Recordkeeping 35:24 File Retention and I-9 Rules 40:03 Scaling HR Systems & Benefits 44:03 Protecting Culture While Growing 45:59 HR Platforms & Reporting 48:06 HR Tips & Wrap-Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.    

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano continues her Cannabis Operator Series with Anthony “AJ” Mollins, Founder of AJ’s Craft Cannabis Farm in Colorado, for a deep dive into legacy cultivation, innovation, and what it really takes to build a sustainable cannabis operation in today’s market. AJ shares his journey from California’s legacy market, including launching Tahoe Herbal Care in Northern Lake Tahoe in 2009 and exiting in 2014, before relocating to Colorado to design and build a truly unique underground cultivation facility. Built on living soil, natural sunlight, and geothermal cooling and to produce high-quality, terpene-rich cannabis. Jenny and AJ get into the realities operators are facing today from increasing regulatory pressure, testing costs, and recalls to the industry’s continued shift toward large-scale, high-volume “pump and dump” production. AJ contrasts that model with craft cultivation, emphasizing plant health, environmental control, and post-harvest precision as the true differentiators in quality. They discuss the “why” behind his design - leveraging diffused and full sunlight cycles, low power consumption, gravity-fed water systems, and multi-room drying and curing environments to maintain consistency and control. The conversation also dives into the real challenges of bringing a non-traditional facility to life, including navigating permitting hurdles and engineering complexities.  This episode is packed with real operator insight, technical cultivation strategy, and honest perspective on what it takes to stand out in an increasingly competitive and regulated market.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Anthony “AJ” Mollins, Founder of AJ’s Craft Cannabis Farm 🌎 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://www.ajsmj.com 🌎𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺: https://www.instagram.com/ajs_kush   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 02:05 AJ’s background 03:43 California vs Colorado 08:50 Design Inspiration 13:24 Permits and Build Challenges 15:08 Scaling and Market Pressures 17:16 Cultivation Philosophy 21:40 Living Soil vs Hydro 23:42 Sustainability Meets Profit 27:58 Efficiency and Climate Control 31:55 Craft vs Commercial 32:59 Terpenes and Old Strains 37:02 Standing Out in Wholesale 41:17 THC Hype vs Terps 47:38 Cleanliness and Culture 50:46 Living Soil and Companion Plants 52:34 Recalls, Testing, and Scale 54:36 Wrap Up & Final Thoughts   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting, shares lessons learned from operating vertically integrated cannabis facilities in Colorado during the early days and from years of experience guiding operators nationwide. She outlines the most common pitfalls quietly hurting cannabis businesses. Jenny emphasizes the difference between winning a license and achieving true operational readiness, stressing continual SOP updates, reinforced training, especially around seed-to-sale systems like Metrc, and routine internal auditing rather than waiting for regulators to flag non-compliance. She identifies silent profit killers such as inventory variances, sampling abuse, waste tracking issues, and reconciliation errors. Operators also face risks from data overload without actionable insights, cashflow blind spots, rapid promotions without leadership development, safety gaps in cultivation and manufacturing, and compliance complacency both in emerging and mature markets. Jenny shares practical strategies to identify risks early, tighten operational controls, and build systems that scale with evolving regulations, protect profits, and maintain compliance discipline. Listeners will walk away with a clear roadmap for operational discipline, a strong compliance culture, and management systems needed to build a sustainable, profitable cannabis business.     🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 01:35 Why Pitfalls Matter 02:12 Licensing Versus Readiness 04:48 Operational SOP Reality 10:47 Training That Sticks 13:39 Inspections and Self Audits 15:45 Systems Not Improvising 18:04 Compliance in Daily Workflow 20:15 Silent Profit Killers 21:57 Sampling and Destruction Logs 25:26 Waste Control and FIFO 28:41 Metrc Reconciliation Discipline 30:12 Inventory Compliance Stakes 31:21 Small Operators vs MSOs 32:17 Stop Leakage With Audits 33:31 Data Into Decisions 34:56 Cashflow Blind Spots 36:43 Middle Manager Gap 43:31 Safety and OSHA Risks 46:39 Audit Rhythm and Futureproofing 51:00 Systems to Stay Operational 54:45 Wrap Up      𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano sits down with Evan Bliss, Owner and Design Director of Studio Bliss, to discuss what it really takes to design cannabis facilities in emerging markets. Evan shares his journey from traditional architecture into cannabis starting with extraction labs in California and expanding into cultivation and dispensary projects across the country. Together, they break down common misconceptions operators face, including underestimating total building size beyond licensed canopy and misallocating budget dollars. They emphasize the importance of engaging experienced design, engineering, and construction teams early to prevent workflow inefficiencies, storage and vault constraints, biosecurity gaps, and costly code-compliance issues. Key topics include phasing facilities for scalable growth, understanding the budget impact of HVAC and utility infrastructure, avoiding redesigns caused by fire egress and permitting missteps, navigating multi-agency approvals, managing equipment lead times, and preventing expensive power upgrade surprises through early load calculations. This episode delivers practical, real-world guidance for operators planning new builds or expansions in emerging cannabis markets.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Evan Bliss, Owner and Design Director of Studio Bliss 🌎 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://studioblissla.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 01:24 Evan’s Origin Story 04:24 Emerging Market Reality Check 05:05 Canopy vs Facility Size 06:19 Phased Build Strategy 07:46 Engage Design Team Early 11:19 Budgeting and Delivery Model 14:53 Profit Drivers HVAC First 16:01 Designing for Licensing Success 17:44 Avoid Redesign and Code Traps 20:31 Permitting Delays and Cities 24:44 Upfront Steps and Equipment Lead Times 27:10 Operational Flow and GMP Thinking 29:24 Dispensary Layout Pitfalls 34:02 Vault Design Essentials 35:20 Space Constraints in Dense Cities 37:48 Inspections and Regulator Variability 43:13 Scaling Manufacturing Infrastructure 46:41 Phased Grows and Flexible Buildouts 48:14 Costly Pitfalls Utilities and Power 59:38 Plan Ahead and Final Takeaways   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙 In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano continues her Cannabis Operator Series with Joey Coleman, Founder and CEO of KAI Dispensary. Joey shares how a paragliding accident in Colombia that caused a severe spinal injury led him to cannabis and ultimately into the industry. He discusses transitioning from operating a 40-acre hemp/CBD farm and extraction business to launching an adult-use dispensary in Grand Junction, Colorado. Joey walks through winning a license via lottery, building from the ground up, and navigating complex zoning, planning, and permitting delays. The conversation explores what sets KAI apart: thoughtful architectural design by his brother, a light-filled retail space with a courtyard and sawtooth roofline, curated merchandising including a “smell bar,” and strong community engagement through local artist partnerships and First Friday events. Joey also shares candid lessons on staffing, compliance systems, capital constraints, supply chain logistics to the Western Slope, and building a hospitality-driven culture without micromanaging. They close by previewing KAI’s one-year anniversary celebration in March, highlighting how intentional operations and community connection help a single-store operator compete in Colorado’s mature market. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on navigating licensing and delays, building a differentiated retail experience, and leading with both compliance and hospitality at the forefront.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Joey Coleman, Founder & CEO KAI Dispensary 🌎 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://www.kaidispensary.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 00:57 Joey’s Origin Story 01:15 Crash and Recovery 01:48 Finding Cannabis Relief 04:33 From Hemp to Adult-Use 07:07 Designing Kai Dispensary 15:37 Customer Experience and Product Curation 20:46 Licensing Lottery and City Relations 25:44 Delays and Inspections 28:01 Cannabis Taxes Funding Community 29:16 Operational Surprises 30:39 Systems and Growth Wins 31:43 First Store Reality Check 33:28 Staffing Lessons Learned 35:01 Capital and Cash Cushion 38:12 Supply Chain to Western Slope 43:14 Community Events and Local Art 46:27 Employee Culture and Service 54:58 Wrap Up & Final Thoughts   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙 In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano breaks down the growing wave of scams and fraud targeting licensed cannabis operators across the U.S. Drawing from her experience operating vertically integrated cannabis facilities in Denver since 2009 and her work through ICS Consulting for over the last 10 years, Jenny explains why cannabis businesses are uniquely vulnerable due to regulatory complexity, cash-heavy operations, evolving licensing frameworks, and limited banking access. The conversation outlines six major scam categories affecting operators nationwide - including regulator impersonation, fake licensing and social equity programs, payment diversion schemes, delivery and reporting fraud, and investment scams. Jenny walks through real-world examples and regulator alerts while highlighting common red flags like spoofed communications, urgent payment demands, threats of license action, and attempts to bypass internal controls. ✨ This episode delivers practical safeguards operators can implement immediately, including SOPs for verifying regulator communications, stronger payment controls, role-based employee training, and clear response protocols when scam attempts occur - helping cannabis businesses protect their licenses, finances, and teams in an increasingly complex environment.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 03:39 National Scam Overview 06:52 Red Flags Basics 08:52 Regulator Scam Warnings 12:15 Colorado + other State Scams 13:14 Fake Licensing & Social Equity Scams 19:03 Investor Fraud & Phishing 24:22 Federal Investment Schemes 26:27 Building Scam Safeguards 28:01 Cybersecurity Essentials 28:30 Phishing & Phone Scams 29:43 Money Verification Controls 32:17 Verifying Regulators 33:56 Crypto Payment Red Flags 35:37 Recommended Controls & Drills 38:28 Payment & Licensing Protections 43:17 Frontline Staff Training 46:56 Accounting Scam Risks 50:46 Key Takeaways + Wrap-Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano sits down with Michael Andrud, CEO and Founder of Lüt., to break down operational best practices for cannabis retail payments. Michael shares his background in financial services and how that experience informs his approach to navigating payments in highly regulated cannabis environments. The conversation explores the real risks of cash-heavy operations, common misconceptions around payment processing, and the compliance and regulatory concerns tied to payment options like cashless ATMs. Jenny and Michael also discuss the importance of creating consistent customer payment experiences, aligning payment solutions with business models, and effectively implementing loyalty programs. They dive deeper into staff training, documentation, fraud prevention, transparency, and optimizing payment workflows to reduce risk and improve operational efficiency. This episode offers practical guidance and actionable insights for dispensary operators looking to strengthen their payment processes while navigating an increasingly complex regulatory landscape.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Michael Andrud, CEO and Founder of Lüt 🌎 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://www.mylut.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 00:57 Guest Introduction: Michael Andrud 03:15 Challenges in Cannabis Payment Processing 05:33 Operational Risks of Cash Reliance 08:01 Common Payment Pitfalls for Dispensaries 10:00 Visa and MasterCard's Stance on Cannabis Payments 23:36 Customer Trust and Payment Consistency 27:47 Leveraging Loyalty Programs for Growth 35:09 Bank-to-Bank Transfer Programs 36:50 Risks of ACH Transactions 41:30 Staff Training and Payment Systems 48:35 AI and Fraud Prevention 54:54 Compliance Banking and Risk Mitigation 57:39 Best Practices & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.    

In this episode of Under the Microscope, host Jenny Germano sits down with Alex Hearding, Founder and President of Red Wolf Risk, to break down what’s next for the cannabis industry. From upcoming federal rescheduling and the possibility of full descheduling in the future and what these shifts mean for day-to-day operations. The conversation focuses on how operators can prepare for a more regulated future. Alex explains why aligning with federal standards now is critical and dives into the role Quality Management Systems (QMS) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) will play as the industry matures. Together, they explore how proactive compliance can help operators stay competitive, strengthen operations, empower them to quickly adapt by lowering risk exposures and increase business value ahead of future mergers and acquisitions. Tune in to gain insights into what lies ahead for cannabis operators and positioning your business for the industry’s next phase.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Alex Hearding, Founder and President of Red Wolf Risk 🌎 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://redwolfrisk.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 01:07 Introducing the Guest: Alex Hearding 02:35 Discussion on Rescheduling and Federal Standards 04:33 Impact of Rescheduling on the Cannabis Industry 08:25 Compliance and Regulatory Shifts 25:09 Proactive Compliance and Future Challenges 33:02 The Benefits of Regulating Whole Plant Medicine 33:25 Federal vs. State Regulation 34:21 Interstate and International Commerce 35:02 Understanding GMP and Quality Management Systems 38:59 Document Management and Traceability 44:41 Impact on Operators, Patients, and Consumers 50:23 Preparing for GMP Compliance 55:34 Exit Strategies and Industry Consolidation 01:01:52 Future Outlook & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano delves into the topic of common inventory tracking mistakes that put cannabis operators at risk. With over 16 years of experience and helping cannabis facilities navigate the regulatory landscape across the United States, Jenny shares valuable insights into how to prevent common mistakes related to the Metrc seed-to-sale tracking system. She discusses the importance of maintaining accurate inventory records and preventing compliance violations, emphasizing daily reconciliation, proper staff training, and having robust inventory management standard operating procedures (SOPs). Jenny shares her practical tips for avoiding common inventory track and trace pitfalls and highlights her motto - bad data in equals bad data out. Learn about the risk exposure of poor inventory management, tips for better compliance, and recommendations for staying audit-ready in an industry that is under the microscope. Don't miss this essential episode for cannabis operators looking to improve their inventory management processes.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 00:51 Common Inventory Pitfalls 02:59 Importance of Compliance and Training 11:32 Seed to Sale Tracking Explained 17:43 Physical Inventory and Best Practices 21:35 Common Metrc Mistakes and Solutions 29:50 The Importance of Naming Conventions 30:12 POS System Integration Challenges 32:04 The Handling of RFID Tags 34:17 Adjustments, Transfers and Manifest Errors 39:32 Late Reconciliation and Non-engagement with Reports 45:14 Staying Audit Ready 49:46 Best Practice Recommendations & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano discusses the increasing issue of cannabis recalls with special guest Carly Bader, Director of Science at Willow Industries. Carly shares her experiences from working in both the cannabis industry and the field of infectious diseases. Jenny shares recall data from 2025, illustrating the scope of recalls across various states while Carly provides insights on why recalls are common in regulated markets and the major triggers for large-scale recalls. They discuss the importance of proper sanitation, regulatory compliance, and continuous environmental testing to prevent contamination and improve public safety and talk about the need for a centralized database for recall information. Tune in for an in-depth conversation that covers everything from microbial issues and pesticide recalls to the necessity of better public recall reporting systems. Both Jenny and Carly emphasize the significance of educating operators and the workforce to raise safety standards and minimize recalls in the evolving cannabis industry.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Carly Bader, Director of Science at Willow Industries 🌎 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: https://willowindustries.com 🌎 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗕𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗟𝗜: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carly-bader-4260b217a   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 00:43 Our Guest: Carly Bader 01:21 Cannabis Recall Statistics 03:09 Understanding the Increase in Recalls 06:20 Carly’s Background and Experience 10:05 Challenges in Cannabis Compliance 13:16 Issues Triggering Large Scale Recalls 19:08 Root Causes and Solutions for Recalls 29:07 Sanitation Standards in New Markets 30:12 Client Struggles with Microbial Testing 31:14 Importance of Proper Sanitation 33:35 Challenges in the Cannabis Industry 37:19 Employee and Consumer Safety 39:57 Issues with Recall Timeliness 44:53 Improving Contamination Control 52:59 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano welcomes Nohtal Partansky, the CEO and founder of Sorting Robotics, to discuss the impact of robotics on the cannabis industry. Nohtal shares his fascinating journey from aerospace engineering at NASA to pioneering automation solutions for cannabis manufacturers. The conversation covers key topics such as the economic benefits of robotics in production, the challenges of regulatory compliance, and the future role of AI in the industry. Jenny and Nohtal also offer practical advice for operators navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving market, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards and embracing technological advancements.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Nohtal Partansky, the CEO and founder of Sorting Robotics 🌎 𝗦𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀: https://www.sortingrobotics.com   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀⏰ 01:21 Nohtal’s Journey from NASA to Cannabis 04:12 Challenges and Insights in Cannabis Manufacturing 16:42 Robotics ROI and Economic Benefits 20:53 Mature Markets and Future Outlook 29:32 Customization vs. Standardization in Cannabis Markets 30:21 Challenges of High Variability in Cannabis 42:30 Regulatory Compliance and Automation 46:54 The Role of AI and Robotics in Cannabis Manufacturing 49:13 Practical Advice for Cannabis Operators 52:42 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In the first episode for 2026 of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano welcomes Cassie Tomaselli, Founder and Creative Director of Tomaselli Media and The Green Room, to discuss the critical role of a brand voice and effective marketing strategies for cannabis operators. They delve into the unique regulatory challenges faced by cannabis businesses across the US market, the importance of balancing educational versus promotional content, and innovative ways to build a strong personal brand and thought leadership in the industry. The conversation covers practical tips on email marketing, utilizing social media responsibly, supporting cannabis media, and leveraging trade shows and events effectively. Tune in to learn more insights as Jenny and Cassie emphasize the value of authentic storytelling and creating a community-centric approach to engage audiences.   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   🌿𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Cassie Tomaselli, Founder & Creative Director of Tomaselli Media & The Green Room 🌎 𝗧𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮: https://tomasellimedia.com 🌎 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗺: https://the-green-room-b55c22.circle.so/the-green-room-open-enrollment-2025   ⏰𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘀 00:59 Guest Introduction - Cassie Tomaselli 03:54 Challenges in Cannabis Marketing 08:25 Importance of a Brand Voice 12:19 Organic Content vs. Paid Ads 15:15 Email Marketing Strategies 19:36 Balancing Educational and Promotional Content 24:24 Thought Leadership in Cannabis 27:06 The Importance of Personal Branding 27:38 Combating Cannabis Stigma Through Thought Leadership 29:00 Navigating Media Relations in the Cannabis Industry 31:29 Supporting Cannabis Media and Trade Shows 44:46 Opportunities in Mature Cannabis Markets 47:19 Building Personal Authority in the Cannabis Industry 51:43 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

🎙In the final episode of 2025, host Jenny Germano of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny' addresses preparation for a compliant 2026 for cannabis operators. Drawing from her extensive background, Jenny offers action steps on record-keeping standards, navigating the rescheduling processes, preparing for potential state and federal regulatory changes, and improving overall compliance best practices. She emphasizes the importance of meticulous business records management, staff training refreshers, understanding the evolving regulations, and being proactive with federal standards such as OSHA, QMS and ISO 9001. Additionally, she discusses the potential impacts of cannabis rescheduling and the essential steps operators can take to stay updated, diligent and ready. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to help cannabis businesses maintain compliance and readiness for a successful new year.   🌿Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:12 Preparing for Year-End and 2026 03:33 Record Keeping Essentials 12:59 Rule Changes and Compliance 16:28 Operational Reset for 2026 30:42 Cannabis Rescheduling Insights 49:13 Wrap Up & Future Plans   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano sits down with Jessica Velazquez, CPA, CFE, and Principal Cannabis Practice Leader at Beach Fleischman. Jessica shares her extensive background and experience as a CPA in the cannabis industry. Jenny and Jessica dive into some of the challenges faced by cannabis businesses in 2025, the impact of market trends, and the significance of proactive financial planning. The conversation covers key financial trends from 2025, the importance of regular communication with financial professionals, and the critical role of the power of planning and adapting to industry changes. They also discuss specific strategies for aligning operations with accounting, managing cash flow, and preparing for tax liabilities in the evolving cannabis market. Tune in to gain insights into minimizing tax surprises and optimizing business performance for the year ahead and navigate the complexities of the cannabis industry.    🌿Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Jessica Velazquez, CPA, CFE & Principal Cannabis Practice Leader 🌎 Beach Fleischman: www.beachfleischman.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:44 Introduction Jessica Velazquez 03:05 Industry Evolution and Challenges 04:24 2025 Financial Recap and Surprises 07:52 Tax Trends and Financial Challenges 13:03 Importance of Q4 Planning 21:12 Tax Liabilities and Avoiding Pitfalls 26:34 Power of Planning: Proactive vs. Reactive 28:13 Quarterly Engagement for Cannabis Operators 28:30 Challenges of Annual CPA Engagement 35:06 Active Financial Planning for Cannabis Companies 44:35 Preparing for Future Market Changes 52:21 Final Tips for Cannabis Operators & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano leads an in-depth discussion with Katherine Golden, CEO and founder of LEAF411, and Maureen Dube-Savage, Ambassador and Community Educator for LEAF411. Both guests share their journeys into the cannabis industry driven by personal and professional experiences. They highlight the importance of cannabis education, and how medical cannabis can offer significant benefits to patients. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by medical patients in accessing the right products, the role of budtenders, the importance of clean and safe products, and recommendations for improving patient support and education in the cannabis industry. They also address gaps in the market for patients such as the lack of training and education, the need for better product labeling and product selection tailored to medical patients and how operators can better support them. Don't miss this insightful discussion on how to enhance the support and services for medical cannabis patients.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Katherine Golden, RN, CEO & Founder of LEAF411 🌿Our Guest: Maureen Dube-Savage, Ambassador and Community Educator for LEAF411 🌎 https://leaf411.org   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:32 Katherine's Journey into Cannabis 04:28 Maureen's Journey and Medical Cannabis Education 07:41 Challenges in Serving Medical Cannabis Patients 08:16 Gaps in Services for Medical Patients 22:56 Improving Budtender Training and Patient Service 33:05 Finding the Right Employees 33:14 The Importance of Education and Resources 34:34 Best Practices for Medical Dispensaries 35:46 Challenges in the Medical Cannabis Market 39:31 Dosing Guidelines and Microdosing 42:43 Clean and Safe Cannabis Products 54:12 Future of Medical Patient Support   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano sits down with Tiana Woodruff, the CEO and Founder of the cannabis wellness brand, Queen Mary. Tiana shares her intriguing journey from the entertainment industry and party planning to navigating the highly regulated cannabis industry and launching her brand in California and Colorado. She shares the challenges and triumphs of starting her own cannabis business, the significance of social equity programs, and the importance of education and persistence. Tiana also details her experience with white labeling, licensing deals, and her proactive approach to overcoming obstacles. They discuss her future goals for Queen Mary and the commitment to consumer education and wellness. This insightful conversation is packed with real-life advice, the importance of perseverance, building relationships, and continuous learning for anyone interested in the cannabis industry.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Tiana Woodruff, CEO & Founder of Queen Mary 🌎 https://queenmarybrand.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:15 Tiana's Journey into Cannabis 02:42 Challenges and Lessons in the Cannabis Industry 04:26 Building Queen Mary: From Idea to Reality 10:20 Navigating Financial and Operational Hurdles 12:48 The Importance of Relationships and Persistence 22:21 Motivation and Passion in the Cannabis Industry 29:53 Learning from Mistakes in the Cannabis Industry 30:16 The Realities and Risks of Running a Cannabis Business 30:56 The Rise and Fall of Cannabis Brands 32:50 Regulatory Challenges in California 34:14 Navigating Different Markets in California 37:20 Expanding to New States like Colorado and Licensing Deals 57:10 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano discusses the complexities of the hemp and cannabis markets with Aaron Tucker, a business attorney and founder of Shadow Mountain Law and Fire Business Strategies. They explore the legal and regulatory distinctions between hemp and cannabis, consumer perceptions, and the opportunities and risks for operators in both markets. Key topics include the impact of the 2018 Farm Bill, compliance challenges, and recent federal developments affecting the hemp industry. The discussion provides valuable insights for listeners navigating the evolving legal landscape.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Aaron Tucker found of Shadow Mountain Law & Fire Business Strategies 🌎 https://shadowmountainlaw.com 🌎 https://firebusinessstrategies.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:54 Aaron Tucker’s Journey into Cannabis 03:33 Understanding Hemp vs. Cannabis 07:46 Regulatory Challenges and Legal Distinctions 15:54 Consumer Market Insights 24:53 Crossover Strategies: Cannabis to Hemp and Vice Versa 28:48 Navigating the Hemp and Marijuana Industry 29:25 Challenges of Compliance and Regulation 30:34 Barriers to Entry in the Marijuana Industry 32:13 Practical Guidance for Operators 33:01 Legal Considerations and Compliance Strategies 38:36 Future Outlook and Industry Trends 45:22 Myths and Facts about Hemp and Cannabis 51:37 Update on Recent Changes in the Hemp Industry   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' for our Cannabis Operator Series, host Jenny Germano welcomes Brendan McKee, Co-Founder of Silver Therapeutics, to discuss his journey and insights into running a cannabis business. Brendan shares his extensive background, starting from working in their family business, professional football in Europe to entrepreneurship and launching cannabis operations across multiple states with family. Jenny and Brendan talk about the operational and regulatory challenges, the importance of community engagement, business strategies and the critical aspects of selecting the right business partners and managing finances. The conversation highlights the need for resilience, strategic partnerships, and continuously adapting to market demands, offering up valuable tips for new and existing cannabis entrepreneurs.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿 Our Guest: Brendan McKee, Co-Founder of Silver Therapeutics 🌎 Silver Therapeutics: https://silver-therapeutics.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:04 Brendan's Journey into Cannabis 03:06 Challenges and Growth in the Cannabis Industry 04:10 Regulatory Hurdles and Market Expansion 09:41 Navigating Market Differences 11:38 Operational Challenges and Achievements 23:07 Entering New Markets and Future Plans 26:43 Funding the Expansion 29:24 Choosing the Right Partners 30:45 Family Business Dynamics 32:11 Customer and Employee Care 34:34 Design and Buildout Strategies 38:29 Community and Local Relationships 41:21 Supply Chain Management 45:11 Industry Realities and Challenges 49:09 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano is joined by Andy Shelley the Founder of CannXperts to discuss the critical issue of receivership in the cannabis industry. Andy, a former Law Enforcement Officer and Oregon Liquor Control Commission Regulator turned cannabis consultant, delves into his transition into the industry. The conversation focuses on the nuances of receivership, an alternative to bankruptcy, and why it is particularly relevant in the cannabis sector due to federal restrictions on bankruptcy filings. Jenny and Andy talk about the causes leading to receivership, the warning signs, the operational and regulatory challenges, and the steps companies can take to avoid this route. Through detailed explanations and real-life examples, listeners can gain valuable insights into the complexities of financial difficulties in the cannabis industry, the importance of vigilance, and the steps to ensure business sustainability.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿 Our Guest: Andy Shelley Founder of CannXperts  🌎 CannXperts: https://www.cannxperts.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:12 Andy Shelley's Background in Cannabis 04:10 Receivership in the Cannabis Industry 05:27 Understanding How Receivership Works 09:43 Reasons Why Receivership Happens 14:50 Receivership Process and Challenges 17:26 Managing Operations During Receivership 20:24 Regulatory Compliance in Receivership 23:24 Protecting Assets and Ensuring Continuity 25:14 Early Warning Signs and Prevention 26:23 Identifying Financial Warning Signs 29:52 Proactive Steps to Avoid Financial Trouble 34:05 The Dangers of Ignoring Financial Issues 36:06 Risks of Management Service Companies 45:06 Best Practices for New and Existing Operators 48:13 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano welcomes Ernest Toney, founder of BIPOCann, to discuss the keys to building a sustainable cannabis business by focusing on working on the business and not just in it. Ernest shares his journey from working in sport health and wellness to entering the cannabis industry and founding BIPOCann in 2020. Jenny and Ernest cover a wide range of topics, from the importance of having a business plan, navigating regulatory frameworks and authentic storytelling to working through challenges related to funding and access to capital, especially for minority and underrepresented entrepreneurs. They discuss the significance of relationship building and the unique value propositions that can set a cannabis business apart in a competitive market. Whether you're an aspiring cannabis entrepreneur or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical best practices.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Ernest Toney, Founder of BIPOCann 🌎BIPOCann: https://bipocann.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:20 Ernest's Early Career and Transition to Cannabis 03:50 Addressing Market Gaps in the Industry 09:11 Challenges and Strategies for Cannabis Entrepreneurs 13:26 Importance of Business Planning 20:07 Financial Projections and Proformas 28:31 Funding Challenges for Micro and Social Equity Licenses 29:06 Challenges in the Cannabis Industry 29:56 Access to Capital and Financial Barriers 35:08 Branding and Storytelling in Cannabis 41:03 Navigating Market Entry and Licensing 45:15 The Importance of Relationship Building 52:09 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

🎙In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano welcomes her guest, Alex Hearding from Red Wolf Risk, who brings expertise in environmental science and worker safety. Alex and Jenny explore critical topics of protecting employees in cannabis cultivation operations by understanding Worker Protection Standards. Their discussion covers the specifics of Worker Protection Standards (WPS) and the critical need for compliance with EPA regulations on pesticide use, including the roles and requirements for workers and handlers, the importance of training, PPE, emergency assistance, maintaining decontamination stations and common violations. This episode provides practical tips and best practices to help operators ensure compliance and protect their workers, making this a valuable resource for anyone involved in cannabis cultivation.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Alex Hearding founder of Red Wolf Risk 🌎Red Wolf Risk: https://redwolfrisk.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 02:55 Understanding Worker Protection Standards (WPS) 04:17 EPA Standards and Pesticide Use in Cannabis 08:03 Overlap with OSHA and State Regulations 19:07 Training and Education Requirements 25:32 Central Posting and Safety Data Sheets 29:36 Essential Safety Equipment for Outdoor Grows 32:14 Restricted Entry Intervals (REI) Explained 34:17 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guidelines 39:36 Decontamination and Emergency Supplies 48:13 Common Violations and Best Practices 54:56 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

 In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny', host Jenny Germano discusses the top compliance mistakes that cannabis operators commonly make and provides insights on how to prevent them. With over a decade of experience in cannabis operations, Jenny covers a broad range of topics including the top violations in the US, the importance of maintaining a culture of compliance, and best practices for avoiding common pitfalls such as poor record-keeping, labeling errors, and seed-to-sale tracking systems. She dives into the significance of violations issued across 29 states and over $10 million in fines issued in 2024.  Jenny also provides best practices for each of the top violations, emphasizing the importance of a compliance-centered company culture. Listeners can learn about proper inventory tracking, record-keeping, packaging, and employee training to avoid the common infractions and ensure their cannabis business operates within regulatory standards. Tune in to learn more, and how to navigate the regulatory landscape to keep your cannabis business compliant.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:27 Compliance Risks in Cannabis Operations 06:09 Top Violations in Cannabis Operations 06:21 Track and Trace Issues 15:05 Poor Record Keeping 20:20 Packaging and Labeling Mistakes 23:04 Security and Surveillance Failures 30:33 Advertising and Marketing Violations 32:52 Point of Sale System Failures 33:49 Improper Waste Disposal 40:10 Employee Training and Safety 42:56 Best Practices for Compliance 55:56 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙 In this episode of ‘Under the Microscope with Jenny’, host Jenny Germano welcomes Jeremy  Shechter, founder of Open Source Horticulture, who shares his extensive experience in cannabis and horticulture. The conversation covers Jeremy's unique background in aquaponics, the key principles for cultivation, common pitfalls in facility design, the importance of staff satisfaction, and the future of cultivating cannabis. They also discuss practical aspects like preventative equipment maintenance, biosecurity in facility design and the critical role of structured communication in managing a successful cultivation operation. This episode is packed with valuable tips for both new and experienced cannabis operators.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Jeremy Shechter, founder of Open Source Horticulture 🌎 https://opensourcehorticulture.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:06 Jeremy's Background in Horticulture and Cannabis 02:10 Aquaponics and Cultivation Philosophy 03:26 Facility Design and Operational Efficiency 17:14 Balancing Creative Vision with Operational Realities 21:10 Importance of Employee Satisfaction in Cultivation 27:54 Team Dynamics in Cannabis Cultivation 29:17 Importance of Structure and Goals 30:19 Meaningful Employee Incentives 33:47 Communication in Cultivation Operations 38:53 Preventative Maintenance in Cultivation Facilities 45:12 The Future of Cultivating Cannabis 50:03 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up    Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this episode of 'Under The Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano welcomes Jennifer Makris the Founder of Cannabis Cash Consultants, who shares her journey and expertise in cannabis cash management. Jennifer explores the evolution of her career from transportation logistics to managing financial systems for Brinks, and discusses her role in pioneering cannabis-friendly financial institutions and cash handling solutions. They discuss key topics such as the challenges of handling cash in the cannabis industry, the importance of efficient cash management systems, the risks associated with cash transactions, and the impact of potential regulatory changes on cash usage in the future. Jennifer also highlights best practices, training needs, and technological solutions to improve cash management efficiency and security for dispensary operators. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complex world of cannabis cash management and practical advice for safeguarding their business operations.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Jennifer Makris 🌎 https://cannabiscashconsultants.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:18 Jennifer's Journey into Cannabis 03:37 The Role of Cash in Cannabis Retail 05:22 Challenges in Cannabis Banking 10:10 Cash Handling and Security Concerns 22:50 Tactical Strategies for Cash Management 29:17 The Importance of Networking and Learning 30:21 Expanding Your Network Beyond State Lines 33:53 The Importance of Training in Cash Handling 42:48 Daily Reconciliation and Cash Management Strategies 49:50 The Future of Cannabis Cash Management 51:45 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope Cannabis Operator Series’, host Jenny Germano welcomes Shawn Honaker, CEO of Yeti Farms, a Medical and Adult-Use Cultivation and Manufacturing Facility. The discussion dives into Shawn's unexpected journey into the cannabis industry, starting from his roots in central Indiana, to running a financial planning firm, and eventually founding Yeti Farms. Shawn shares his experiences including challenges in the oil field industry, overcoming personal struggles with alcohol, and the journey of establishing a successful cannabis business. The talk touches on his diverse career, innovative ventures in cannabis extraction, cultivation practices, and insights into navigating the regulatory and financial challenges of the cannabis industry. Shawn also provides a realistic perspective on the current state and future of the cannabis market, emphasizing lessons learned and the importance of adapting to changing circumstances.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Shawn Honaker, CEO of Yeti Farms 🌎 Yeti Farms: https://yetifarms.co   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:10 Shawn's Early Life and Work Ethic 04:27 Journey to Colorado and Career Shift 07:16 Success in Sales and Financial Planning 19:16 Overcoming Challenges and Building Success 21:04 Entering the Cannabis Industry 23:25 Rediscovering Cannabis 25:07 From Indoor to Outdoor Cultivation 27:09 The Birth of Yeti Farms 32:49 Challenges in the Cannabis Industry 40:34 Reflections and Future Plans   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙 In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano welcomes Blaine Hatab, CEO of Distru, to discuss the evolving cannabis industry and key aspects of the industry from operations to compliance. They delve into the importance of technology in cannabis operations, the importance of staying data-driven, leveraging technology and how better tech can make a difference for Cannabis operators.  The conversation covers the unique challenges faced by cannabis operators, the pivotal role of technology, particularly ERP systems, in optimizing operations, and the potential but limited impact of AI on the industry. Jenny and Blaine explore strategies for better inventory management, fostering buyer-operator relationships, and addressing market oversupply issues.  This episode is packed with valuable information for both current and aspiring cannabis operators. Tune in for practical advice and strategies to strengthen your position in this competitive market.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿Our Guest: Blaine Hatab, CEO of Distru 🌎 Distru: https://www.distru.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:35 Guest Introduction  03:11 Challenges in the Cannabis Industry 03:33 Importance of Technology in Cannabis 07:18 Adoption and Integration of Software 10:16 AI in the Cannabis Industry 16:14 Inventory Management and Compliance 20:31 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) 25:40 The Importance of Relationships in Business 31:55 Strategies for Cannabis Operators 34:00 Navigating Market Saturation 43:03 The Role of Data in Business Decisions 48:12 Best Practices for Cannabis Operators   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙 In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano dives into five primary compliance challenges that can make or break a regulated cannabis business. Jenny shares her extensive background in the cannabis industry, beginning in 2009, and the insights she has gained through her 16 years of working in the regulated market. She addresses why she often focuses on the industry's hurdles, and the importance of being prepared, the role of regulations along with the five key compliance challenges operators will face. Jenny provides practical advice, including the necessity of thorough training, and the significance of understanding every single aspect and moving piece of the cannabis business. This episode is crucial for both new entrants and existing operators in the cannabis industry, offering valuable insights and strategies to navigate and mitigate these challenges.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:59 The Reality of Cannabis Industry Challenges 04:00 Why Running a Regulated Cannabis Business is Challenging 09:00 Top Five Compliance Challenges Overview 11:27 Inconsistent Testing Standards 18:50 Navigating the Regulatory Maze 21:52 Inventory Tracking and Inversion Risks 35:56 Security, Packaging, and Product Safety 43:49 Financial, Tax, and Banking Compliance 51:19 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙 In this episode of "Under The Microscope with Jenny Podcast," host Jenny Germano is joined by Maureen McNamara, Founder & Chief Facilitator at Cannabis Trainers, to explore the pivotal role of training in the cannabis industry. The conversation dives into Maureen’s journey as a leader in compliance and training, and how she is shaping the future of cannabis operations. Jenny and Maureen cover essential topics, including the importance of training for compliance, safety, and building strong teams, as well as strategies for engaging adult learners and fostering a positive company culture. Listeners will gain actionable insights into operational best practices, compliance challenges, and the impact of ongoing education on business success. This episode is a must listen for cannabis operators, team leaders, and anyone looking to elevate their operations through effective training and compliance strategies.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿 Our Guest: Maureen McNamara, Founder & Chief Facilitator at Cannabis Trainers 🌎 Cannabis Trainers: https://cannabistrainers.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:15 - Maureen’s Journey: From Hospitality to Cannabis Training 02:30 - The Importance of Training in Cannabis 04:15 - Compliance, Safety, and Public Trust 07:00 - Real-World Training Stories 09:20 - Training for Adult Learners 11:00 - Making Compliance Training Engaging 14:00 - Common Training Mistakes & Assumptions 22:00 - When Training Saves the Day 31:00 - Training Across States & Regulations 34:00 - Building a Training Foundation for New Businesses 39:00 - Debunking Myths About Compliance Training 41:00 - Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano is joined by Shahar Yamay, CEO of Hefestus USA, to explore the role of automation in the cannabis industry. The conversation delves into Shahar's journey from food packaging automation to cannabis, and how his company is revolutionizing pre-roll automation. The episode covers essential topics, including the importance of planning, training, and maintaining high quality while scaling operations. Our Listeners will also gain insights into operational strategies, compliance, and the future of automation in cannabis. Highlights include discussions on the Dutch fold technique, integrating automation seamlessly into daily operations, and anecdotes from successful implementations. This episode is a must-listen for cannabis operators considering or optimizing automation in their facilities.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano, Founder of ICS Consulting 🌎 ICS Consulting: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿 Our Guest: Shahar Yamay, CEO of Hefestus USA 🌎 Hefestus USA: https://www.hefestus-tech.com/cannabis-packaging-automation   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:01 Shahar's Journey in Cannabis Industry 03:20 Discussion on Industry Changes and Challenges 05:46 Automation in Cannabis Operations 08:29 Training and Workforce in Automation 11:31 Scaling and Automation Benefits 26:25 The Importance of Smokeability 27:21 Infusion and Equipment Capabilities 28:28 Scaling and Quality Improvement 30:34 Operational Readiness for Automation 33:37 The importance of Training 35:51 Compliance and Integration 41:28 The Dutch Fold Technique 44:47 Successful Automation Transitions 49:22 Final Takeaways and Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

In this episode of Under the Microscope, host Jenny Germano dives into the complexities of cannabis transportation with guest Joel Dickerson, CEO of GPS One LLC. Joel shares his journey from sports management to the cannabis industry, detailing his experiences working in vertically integrated cannabis operations in Colorado and the launch of Green Parcel Service the first licensed cannabis transportation provider in the United States, and the birth of GPS One. The discussion covers the challenges of cannabis transport, including regulatory compliance, vehicle requirements, route planning, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions. Joel emphasizes the importance of standardization, training, and documentation while sharing real-world stories of navigating the uniqueness of Colorado's transport landscape. This episode provides valuable insights for both existing operators and those considering entering the cannabis transport industry.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿 Our Guest: CEO Joel Dickerson of GPS One LLC.  🌎 GPS One LLC: https://gpsone.delivery 🌎 Green Parcel Service: https://greenparcelservice.co   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:34 Joel's Journey into Cannabis Industry 05:02 Building Green Parcel Service & GPS One 06:42 Innovations in Cannabis Transportation 11:12 Compliance on Wheels: Rules of the Road 19:05 Challenges in Cannabis Transportation 21:25 Compliance Requirements for Cannabis Transport 29:12 Chain of Custody and Record Keeping 32:35 Digital Transport Manifests and Paper Reduction 36:10 Misconceptions About Cannabis Transport 37:34 Transport Logistics and Driver Protocols 43:06 Weather Challenges and Route Planning 49:42 Final Tips and Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

In this episode of Under the Microscope, host Jenny Germano discusses asset-light, market-ready expansion for cannabis operators with guest Xavier Jaillet, an Associate Attorney at McDonald Hopkins Law Firm. Jenny and Xavier explore various models for expanding cannabis brands into new markets, including license acquisition, business purchases, and licensing agreements. They dive deep into the benefits and challenges of partnering with existing operators, emphasizing the importance of due diligence, written agreements, and clear communication. The discussion aims to help cannabis operators navigate expansion strategies effectively while mitigating risks.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿 Our Guest: Xavier Jaillet, Associate Attorney 🌎 Xavier on LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xjaillet 🌎 McDonald Hopkins Law Firm: https://www.mcdonaldhopkins.com 🌿Xavier is also the Chair Colorado Chapter and Secretary of The Board for The Cannabis Chamber of Commerce: https://www.thecannabischamber.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:33 Xavier's Journey in the Cannabis Industry 05:38 Challenges and Opportunities in Cannabis Expansion 08:35 Three Models for State License Products 15:47 Expansion by Licensing Agreements 22:09 The Realities of Partner Selection 27:03 Navigating State Regulations 27:42 Understanding Royalty Percentages and White Labeling 30:41 Vetting Potential Partners 38:51 Pitfalls and Written Agreements 41:41 Allocating Liability and Economic Terms 45:28 Starting Low and Going Slow in Business 48:40 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano discusses the complexities and high costs of opening a regulated cannabis dispensary. With over 16 years of operations experience in the cannabis industry, she describes the various stages from licensing to the grand opening, emphasizing the importance of being organized and having an experienced team. She discusses the common pitfalls such as overwhelming tasks, the lack of project management, the financial strains, drinking through the firehose syndrome, compliance issues, and the importance of thorough preparation.  Providing real examples from her consulting work, Jenny urges potential dispensary owners to take compliance seriously and understand their choices and the significant investment required, both financially and in terms of dedication. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the real challenges in the cannabis industry, while offering practical steps for aspiring dispensary owners.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:58 The Overwhelming Process of Opening a Dispensary 02:48 Cost Variations Across States 07:43 The Reality of Running a Dispensary 10:40 Financial Challenges and Misconceptions 31:34 The High Cost of Compliance 33:08 Challenges During Construction 34:21 Navigating Inspections and Licensing 36:06 Drinking Through the Firehose 45:20 Building the Right Team 53:00 The Importance of Compliance and Burnout Prevention 54:41 Key Takeaways & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano discusses the essential components of compliance in the cannabis industry, focusing on management, people, and systems. Drawing from her extensive experience in the field, Jenny outlines the importance of strong leadership, clear accountability, and effective risk management. She also explores creating a culture of compliance, the significance of proper documentation, and the role of communication in fostering a healthy work environment. The episode includes practical tips and examples, making it a valuable resource for anyone involved in or interested in the regulated cannabis market.   🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 01:10 The Role of Management in Compliance 05:44 Building a Culture of Compliance 12:44 Effective Management Strategies 13:57 Integrating Compliance into Daily Decisions 18:42 Accountability and Documentation Standards 23:26 Organizational Structure and Task Management 28:02 The Importance of Accountability and Documentation 28:39 People First: Leadership and Culture of Compliance 29:11 Choices and Their Impact on Business 32:42 Adaptive Management in the Cannabis Industry 43:02 The Role of Employees in Compliance 47:57 Effective Management and Avoiding Burnout 50:25 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

In this next episode of Under the Microscope with Jenny, host Jenny Germano dives into our Cannabis Operator Series featuring Jennifer McGuire, the COO and Co-Founder of CAMP Cannabis. CAMP is a craft cultivation and manufacturing operation based out of St. Louis, Missouri serving the Medical and Adult-Use market. Jenny sits down with Jennifer to discuss her journey from nursing to co-founding a regulated cannabis operation. Our conversation highlights some of the challenges launching in a new market, and the triumphs along the way, and the focus on growing and producing clean craft cannabis products. We also touch on the importance of safe operational standards, effective marketing strategies, the word of the day - pivot, and how vital team and community involvement is. 🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 ICS Consulting 🌿 Our Guest: COO/Co-Founder Jennifer McGuire 🌎 CAMP Cannabis   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:45 Guest Introduction: Jennifer McGuire 01:11 Journey From Nursing to Cannabis 02:21 Co-Founding Camp Cannabis 05:15 Challenges and Successes 07:49 Building a Brand and Community 13:12 Clean Craft Cannabis Practices 18:44 Operational Growth and Product Development 23:26 Challenges of Expanding a Cannabis Brand 26:53 Navigating Social Media and Marketing Hurdles 33:10 Operational Realities and The Pivot 39:30 Tips for New Cannabis Operators   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

In this episode of Under the Microscope, host Jenny Germano is joined by Bethany Niebauer from Axial Resolutions to discuss mediation as a compliance strategy for regulated cannabis operations. Bethany shares about her decade-long experience in the cannabis industry, starting with writing license applications, and transitioning into mediation to help resolve industry conflicts. This episode delves into how mediation can be used for various disputes within cannabis businesses, including employee issues, vendor relations, how to prevent internal conflicts, and an added value for operational compliance. They highlight the importance of communication, and relational dynamics in maintaining compliance and operational efficiency. The discussion includes practical advice on incorporating ADR clauses in contracts, utilizing mediation to preserve business relationships in the long term and building a culture of trust. 🌿 Our Host: Jenny Germano 🌎 https://www.icsconsultingservice.com 🌿 Our Guest: Bethany Niebauer, Founder of Axial Resolutions 🌎 https://axialresolutions.com   ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:58 Guest Introduction 05:00 The Importance of Mediation in Cannabis 05:44 Understanding Mediation vs. Arbitration 10:09 Compliance and Relationships 18:43 Patterns, Pitfalls, and Prevention 24:40 Leadership and Management Challenges 26:34 Building Relational Trust in the Cannabis Industry 30:55 Tools and Tactics for Conflict Resolution 36:12 The Value of Mediation Clauses in Contracts 38:20 Changing the Culture & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this comprehensive episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano and returning guest Alex Hearding delve into the critical topic of workplace safety in the cannabis industry. They discuss the hidden hazards in cannabis operations and explore effective prevention strategies. The discussion covers essential OSHA regulations, the significance of worker safety programs, and the importance of creating a culture of safety. Jenny and Alex share their extensive experience and offer practical advice for operators, bringing attention to necessary safety plans, proper chemical storage, and the often overlooked OSHA compliance requirements. They emphasize the importance of employee engagement and training, providing actionable steps for operators to enhance workplace safety.   📢 Visit Jenny's Website: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   🌿 Our Guest: Alex Hearding   🙏 Subscribe to my Youtube Channel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐   🎧 Listen On : Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio   Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro & Host Background 01:40 Guest Intro & Background 02:24 Understanding OSHA and Worker Safety 05:30 The General Duty Clause 09:57 Common Hazards in the Cannabis Industry 12:28 OSHA's Role in Cannabis Facilities 19:35 Core Components of a Safety Program 25:46 OSHA Respiratory Protection Program 27:09 Voluntary vs. Mandatory Respirator Use 29:30 Small Business OSHA Compliance 34:02 Fire and Electrical Safety in Cannabis Operations 38:26 OSHA Compliance and Record Keeping 41:17 Employee Engagement and Safety Culture 45:51 Wrap Up & Actionable Steps   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙 In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano chats with Christy and Preston Essex, founders of Seven Staffing and Employment Solutions, about the intricacies of hiring in the cannabis industry. Tune in to learn more about this dynamic team who were on the ground floor supporting new operators when the State of Missouri launched their Medical and Adult-Use Cannabis programs. Our discussion covers common staffing challenges such as turnover and retention, the importance of effective onboarding, and the benefits of flexible staffing options. Christy and Preston also share their insights on workforce coaching, the role of soft skills, and how operators can better invest in their employees to build a stable and productive team. Whether you're a cannabis industry veteran or a new operator, this episode highlights the need for proactive planning and creative problem-solving for anyone looking to build a stable and effective team.   📢 Visit Jenny's Website: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   🌿 Our Guest: Christy & Preston Essex from Seven Staffing and Employment Solutions   🌎 https://www.staffingbyse7en.com   🙏 Subscribe to my Youtube Channel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐   Time Stamps 00:00 Podcast Intro 00:46 Christy Essex's Background 02:18 Preston Essex's Background 03:43 The Challenges in Cannabis Staffing 04:55 Turnover and Retention in the Cannabis Industry 08:57 Employee Credentialing and Regulatory Challenges 15:10 Seasonal and Temporary Staffing Needs 22:29 Investing in Employees Beyond Paychecks 23:54 Creative Alternatives to Employee Benefits 24:59 Challenges for Startups in Offering Benefits 28:05 The Importance of Being Organized 35:15 Common Mistakes Operators make with Onboarding 38:54 Workforce Coaching and Its Positive Impact 44:01 Advice for Cannabis Operators & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.  

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope Operator Series', host Jenny Germano sits down with Beatrice Carranza, Founder of Bachaz Mexican Gummies to discuss her journey into the cannabis industry. With a background in social work and hospitality, Beatrice talks about her motivation to create the first bilingual labeled edible product in Colorado, targeting the Hispanic community. She shares the challenges and triumphs she’s faced, from the lengthy licensing process, educating and demystifying the stigma of cannabis in her community, and getting her authentic Mexican-flavored gummies into dispensaries after launching. Beatrice also emphasizes the importance of dedication and perseverance for small businesses and the value of building relationships with dispensaries. The episode culminates with insights into operating a regulated manufacturing business and advice to budding cannabis entrepreneurs.   👉 Check out my website: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   👉 Our Guest: Beatrice Carranza 🌎 https://bachaz.com/   Subscribe & Rate this Podcast  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️   🎧 Follow Me : Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio & Pandora Radio   Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Host Background 00:49 Guest Introduction: Beatrice Carranza 01:39 Creating a Bilingual Cannabis Brand 02:56 Winning the THC Classic Award 04:30 Challenges and Triumphs of a Small Business 06:21 The Importance of Flavor and Cultural Connection 07:08 The 'Why' Behind the Bachaz Gummies 09:11 Navigating Regulations and Compliance 10:00 The Journey to Operational Readiness 17:53 The Reality of Running a Cannabis Business 23:13 Budgeting and Financial Challenges 25:25 Challenges of Payment Terms in the Cannabis Industry 26:04 Navigating Dispensary Relationships 26:40 The Impact of Payment Delays on Small Businesses 30:32 Introducing Authentic Mexican Flavors 34:10 Marketing Strategies and Customer Engagement 38:12 Overcoming Industry Challenges 44:25 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Advice 46:14 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

🎙In this special 10th episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano explores the critical issue of burnout among cannabis operators. She shares insights from her extensive experience in the cannabis industry, offers a detailed list of ten reasons why cannabis operators get burned out, and provides practical strategies to prevent and manage burnout. Jenny stresses the importance of having a 'why,' being proactive, creating a compliance program, and maintaining a positive mindset. This episode is a must-listen for both new and existing cannabis operators aiming to thrive long-term in this challenging industry.   📢 Visit Jenny's Website: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration 00:30 The Importance of Avoiding Burnout 01:04 Jenny's Background in the Cannabis Industry 02:19 Defining Burnout and Its Impact 02:50 Top 10 Reasons Cannabis Operators Get Burned Out 17:23 The Reality of Running a Cannabis Business 22:47 The Importance of Having a Why 25:32 The Uncertainty of the Cannabis Industry 26:06 Adapting to Change is Critical 27:02 Six Strategies to Avoid Burnout 28:42 Be Proactive, Not Reactive 31:52 Recommitting to Your Why 34:06 Managing the Buckets of Compliance 37:28 Have the Right Support 38:45 Know Where You Are 45:13 Eliminate the Overwhelm 48:11 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   Legal Disclaimer: The content shared on this channel - including all videos, podcasts, interviews, and discussions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, compliance, or business consulting advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Laws and regulations surrounding cannabis and related industries vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified attorney or licensed professional before making decisions that could have legal or regulatory consequences for your business. Listening to or viewing this content does not create a client relationship between you and ICS Consulting, Under the Microscope with Jenny, Jenny Germano, or any of the podcast’s guests. Any opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of ICS Consulting or its affiliates.

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano dives into the critical security strategies for cannabis businesses with guest Tony Gallo, a seasoned expert from Sapphire Risk Advisory Group. Tony shares his extensive experience in the cannabis industry, highlighting the importance of robust security measures during both the licensing and operational phases. Key discussion points include the necessity of a comprehensive security plan for license approval, the pitfalls of underestimating security requirements, the significance of employee training to prevent internal theft, and the benefits of ongoing security assessments. The episode emphasizes the importance of honesty, compliance, and thorough vetting of security partners to ensure the long-term success and safety of cannabis operations.   📢 Visit Jenny's Website: www.icsconsultingservice.com   📢 Our Guest: Tony Gallo from Sapphire Risk Advisory Group   Timestamps   00:00 Introduction and Host Background 00:49 Guest Introduction 02:34 Importance of Security in Cannabis Licensing 07:37 Common Mistakes in Security Planning 14:40 The Pitfalls of Using Gun Safes 19:02 Vetting Your Security Company 23:17 Common Mistakes Applicants Make 24:56 The Impact of Lottery-Based Licensing 28:08 Designing an Effective Security Plan 29:32 Implementing Security Plans Post-License 31:30 Preventing Employee Theft in Cannabis Operations 37:21 Maintaining Security and Compliance 41:06 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up  

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano discusses the nuances of banking for Cannabis Regulated Businesses (CRBs) with Erin O'Donnell and Michael Beird from the Association for Cannabis Banking. This episode explores the history, challenges, and future of cannabis banking. Learn about federal restrictions, compliance requirements, and the tiered risk system designed to manage these CRB’s. Discover practical advice for cannabis operators and hear why education and compliance are crucial for bridging the gap between bankers and cannabis professionals. Don’t miss this brass tacks discussion packed with expert knowledge and industry specific guidance.   👉 Visit Jenny's website: https://www.icsconsultingservice.com   📢 Our Guest Info: Founders Erin O'Donnell and Michael Beird  Association for Cannabis Banking   ✨New Book: Cannabis Banking: Legal Frameworks and Practical Solutions for Cultivating Compliance    🙏 Subscribe to my Youtube Channel    Subscribe & Rate this Podcast ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Host Background 00:43 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds 03:51 Challenges in Cannabis Banking 04:25 Federal Restrictions and Their Impact 07:06 Current Financial Institutions Serving Cannabis 11:36 Banking Regulations and Compliance 15:15 Understanding FinCEN Guidelines 24:20 Risk Levels in Cannabis Banking 27:36 Understanding Revenue Streams in Cannabis Banking 27:56 Compliance Risks for Banks in Cannabis Industry 32:11 Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) Explained 36:35 Challenges and Solutions in Cannabis Banking 38:52 CRB Fees and Compliance Costs in Cannabis Banking 43:59 Tips for Cannabis Operators Seeking Banking Services 49:12 Educational Resources and Wrap Up  

🎙In this episode of Under the Microscope, host Jenny Germano discusses cannabis policy and operations with guest Jordan Wellington from Strategies 64. The conversation delves into Jordan's extensive background in cannabis legislation and regulation. He shares his journey from New Jersey to Colorado, where he played a pivotal role in implementing Amendment 64. Jordan provides insights into the legislative process, misconceptions about cannabis regulations, the importance of stakeholder engagement and the nuances of navigating policy changes. The episode also addresses challenges and frustrations faced by operators, emphasizing the importance of professional engagement with regulators. Tune in to learn about effective strategies for navigating cannabis policy and fostering constructive dialogue in the industry.   Check out my website: ICS Consulting Our Guest: Jordan Wellington, from Strategies 64   Subscribe & Rate this Podcast ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️   Follow Me : Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio & Youtube   Time Stamps 00:00 Episode Introduction and Host Background 00:37 Guest Introduction: Jordan Wellington 00:56 Jordan's Journey into Cannabis Policy 01:49 Implementing Amendment 64 in Colorado 04:51 Regulating Adult Use Marijuana 09:31 Understanding Cannabis Policy 15:06 Misconceptions About Cannabis Policy 21:53 Regulations being too Restrictive aka The Concentrate Flyer 28:30 Customer Frustrations and Information Distribution 29:17 Policy Changes and Labeling Challenges 34:01 Overregulation in Emerging Markets 37:36 Colorado's Regulatory Evolution and Lessons Learned 46:56 Engaging with Regulators Effectively 54:29 Wrap Up  

In this episode of 'Under the Microscope,' host Jenny Germano dives into the complexities of licensing and launching cannabis cultivation facilities in emerging markets. Joined by industry veterans Stuart Ware and Matt Best from Joywave Consulting, share their extensive backgrounds in the cannabis industry and offer an integral approach into common licensing challenges, facility planning, compliance, budgeting, and the latest improvements in cultivation technology. Core topics include the obtaining licenses across different states, effective strategies for planning and designing cultivation facilities, and the critical components of compliance, scalability, and budgeting. The conversation also highlights the significant advancements in cultivation equipment, the importance of a robust market strategy, and the top mistakes new operators often make. This detailed and perceptive episode is jam packed with valuable guidance for anyone looking to enter into the emerging cannabis market.   🌱 Our Guests: www.joywaveconsulting.com (Matt Best & Stuart Ware)   👉 Check out my website: ICS Consulting    👉 Subscribe to my Youtube Channel: Under The Microscope with Jenny   🎧 Follow Me : Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio   Tune in every Wednesday for a new episode. 📆   Subscribe & Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️   Time Stamps 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:41 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds 03:31 Licensing for Cannabis Cultivation Operations 08:10 Types of Cultivation Licenses 15:01 Planning and Designing Cultivation Facilities 17:07 Balancing Compliance and Budget Considerations 20:27 Having a Phased Approach to Cultivation 26:32 Financing Variables for Cannabis Cultivation 30:34 Understanding the Costs of Operating Cultivation Facilities 32:34 Indoor vs. Outdoor Cultivation: Key Differences 34:26 Navigating Construction and Compliance 38:06 Advancements in Cultivation Equipment 46:09 The Importance of Marketing Strategy 51:27 Top Mistakes in the Cannabis Industry 56:35 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up   #cannabisdispensary #cannabisoperations #cannabisindustry #cannabistalk101 #cannabiseducation #cannabis #cannabiscompliance #openacannabisbusiness #cannabisoperators #cannabisdaily #marijuananews #cannabisbusiness #podcast #cannabispodcast #cannabiscultivation #cultivation #cannabiseducation #cannabisgrowers     

Join host Jenny Germano on 'Under the Microscope' as she delves into the intricacies of building a successful team in the regulated cannabis market. Drawing from her extensive experience since 2009 in vertically integrated cannabis operations and a decade of consulting, Jenny discusses key factors behind the success and failures of cannabis businesses. Learn why effective business planning, cash flow management, market experience, leadership, operational management, adaptability, compliance, and marketing are crucial. Plus, discover invaluable steps and insights for assembling and managing a team that can navigate the dynamic landscape of the cannabis industry.   👉Check out my website: ICS Consulting   Subscribe & Rate this Podcast ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️   🙏 Follow Me : Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio & Youtube   Time Stamps   00:00 Introduction and Host Background 01:29 Diving into the Topic: Building a Team 02:54 Challenges in the Cannabis Industry 09:06 Importance of Compliance and Adaptability 13:59 Marketing and Branding Strategies 19:21 Hiring the Right Talent 24:02 Roles and Responsibilities in Cannabis Operations 29:48 Steps to Building a Successful Team 42:05 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up   #cannabisdispensary #cannabisoperations #cannabistalk101 #cannabiseducation #cannabis #cannabiscompliance #openacannabisbusiness #cannabisoperators #cannabisdaily  #marijuananews #cannabiscultivation