In this episode of Grow Sessions, we're excited to host Tony Gallo from Sapphire Risk Advisory Group as he delves into essential security procedures and onsite risk assessments, in an episode titled "High Stakes: Security Tips for Cannabis Facilities."

Join us as we learn how a tailored security systems can save you money, safeguard your property, and address common issues in your facility. Other topics will include insights on obtaining cannabis licenses, meeting state and city requirements, importance of strategic camera placement, the integration of AI in security and the critical nature of fire safety and risk assessments. Tony emphasizes the value of doing things right the first time to avoid costly mistakes and regulatory setbacks. From air filtration to GMP and GACP certifications, Tony covers the vital aspects of building a compliant and secure cannabis facility.

Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your existing operations, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert knowledge. Tune in to learn how to protect your investment and ensure the success of your cannabis business!

About Tony Gallo

Considered the “OG of Cannabis Security”, Tony has been in the cannabis industry since 2013 and has worked with over 800 cannabis clients in 37 States and Canada designing their security program from application to operations. Tony has spoken at over 100 cannabis business conferences across the United States and is considered one of the leading security authorities in the State/City application license process, physical security build outs and standard security operating procedures. He is regarded as a leader in high-risk security program designing and has helped open more than 1,000 high-risk businesses in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

For over 30 years, he has been a Senior Executive, possessing both strategic and tactical security experience in the multi-unit retail industry with such companies as Sears, Federated Department Stores and EZCorp. Tony received his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from New Jersey City University in Jersey City, NJ and is a published author on high-risk security and safety planning.

Tony is the Managing Partner for Sapphire Risk Advisory Group, which is considered one of the Top Security Firms in the cannabis industry and was recently awarded Consulting Firm of 2023 at The Emjays. Tony was also recognized by High Times Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Cannabis People in 2021.

About Sapphire Risk:

Sapphire Risk is the oldest national cannabis security consultancy company in the United States. They specialize in helping clients achieve their dream of winning a cannabis business license, building a secure facility, and implementing security training and SOPs to ensure long-term success. ​No matter the space, they can save cannabis businesses time and money while securing their property.​

Services include Security Plans for Business Licensing; Security Floor Plan Design Overlays; Secure Facility Build Outs; Risk Assessments; Standard Operating Procedures and Manuals; Employee Security Training; Security Expert Witness Services; and POS Exception Analytics

If you have questions for Tony you can reach him at tgallo@sapphirerisk.com or visit the Sapphire Risk website at www.sapphirerisk.com.

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In our most recent episode of Grow Sessions, we have the pleasure of hosting Dave Barton from Thermidor for a lively discussion on the ever-changing global cannabis market in an episode titled "Global Cannabis Insights – Cannabis in the EU and Beyond." Dave delves into a variety of topics within the cannabis industry, from the growing medicinal market to advancements in the European Union (EU) and other global markets, as well as the hurdles that cannabis brands face..

Other topics include insights on the EU market, German legalization and Social Club regulations, shedding light on advocacy efforts, addressing the lingering stigma around cannabis, exploring marketing challenges in the industry, and brainstorming ways to overcome obstacles through educational initiatives. You won't want to miss the insightful discussion.

About Dave Barton, Thermidor

Dave Barton is co-founder and creative director at thermidor – a content- and cannabis-focused, creative agency based in the UK, but operating internationally. He’s also co-host of the lobsterpot podcast, which collects stories, opinions, and perspectives from professionals working in the global cannabis industry.

If you have any questions, you can reach Dave Barton at dave.barton@thermidor.wtf.

Visit us online at www.TSRgrow.com.

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In today's episode of Grow Sessions, Jason Hadley from FILTR teams up with Tony to delve into the intricacies of microbial control in the cannabis industry with a focus on creating clean spaces for your cannabis facility in the segment titled " Clearing the Air: Cultivating Clean Spaces for Your Cannabis Facility.”

As the cannabis industry experiences increasing legalization and regulation, the significance of microbial control cannot be overstated. Join us as we explore the world of cannabis cultivation, emphasizing the necessity of rigorous mold compliance testing before products reach the market.

Topics covered in this episode include the crucial aspects of air quality, the role of air systems and movement, the importance of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), the significance of SOPs, routine maintenance for seamless operations, root cause analysis for identifying air quality issues, standards for constructing and designing a sanitary facility, industry benchmarks like ASTM, and predictions on FDA regulations post-federal legalization of cannabis.

Stay tuned as we navigate through the complexities of microbial control in the cannabis sector, offering insights that promise to shape a safer and cleaner future for cannabis cultivators worldwide.

About Jason Hadley, FILTR

Playing all positions on the field, Jason started as trimmer and fell in love with the industry, further developing his commercial cultivation skills and experience. Personally, living the pain points all growers experience, his natural desire to help others landed him at FILTR, where he learned the how and why of cleaning from a Food and Pharma perspective. Earning a HACCP certificate from Rutgers University Food Innovation Center and professionally certified in Pharma cGMP through Biopharma Institute, Jason serves licensed commercial operators as a Sales Engineer with FILTR air purification and translates microbe control know-how from Pharma to Cannabis so that growers can implement cleaner operations and a enjoy a higher likelihood they’ll consistently meet their state’s microbe compliance mandates.

If you have any questions, you can reach Jason Hadley at jhadley@golighthouse.com

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Join us on the latest episode of Grow Sessions as we dive into the world of insurance with Michael DeNault from World Insurance. In this episode, titled “Insuring Growth: Navigating Risk in the Cannabis Industry,” we unravel the complexities of insurance requirements and surprisingly find it quite intriguing. Insurance, who would've thought!

In this episode, we will dissect insurance needs of commercial cultivation businesses. From Workman's Comp Insurance to Product Liability coverage. We also shine a light on the importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as a preventive measure for cultivators, especially in the absence of historical data to steer best practices in product safety. Michael highlights the industry's early stages, emphasizing the need for data to establish standards that will ultimately impact insurance rates and coverage.

Discover how premiums have changed over the years, all while adhering to CCC insurance regulations. We chat about general and product liability coverage, outlining limits, deductibles, and evolving insurance costs in the cannabis sector.

Commercial property and equipment coverage take the spotlight, underscoring the importance of safeguarding inventory, equipment, and crops. Crop coverage guarantees the protection of living crops, from seeds to plants and harvested products. However, it's essential to note that insurance won't cover poor growing practices, highlighting the importance of a skilled head grower for large-scale operations.

Learn about specific coverage like Equipment Breakdown Coverage, which shields against crop and inventory loss due to system failures. We explore state-specific variations in coverage, with Massachusetts standing out for its well-defined requirements.

Michael imparts valuable advice stressing the importance of guiding clients through common losses and state-specific regulations and emphasizing the importance of longevity, highlighting that profitability isn't just about revenue but about effectively managing the money businesses earn.

Exciting developments lie ahead, including the potential impact of federal legalization on insurance and the merging of agricultural coverages with the cannabis industry. We also shed light on technological advancements and the shift from traditional lighting systems to LEDS for enhanced coverage and reduced premiums. Did you know insurance companies may turn you down for growing with HPS lighting due to the high risk of fire? Did you know that traditional LEDs with drivers still pose a risk to growers? Did you know that TSRgrow's data-driven LED lighting solutions can help growers receive an even larger insurance discount because the drivers are removed from the grow room?

"Insuring Growth" acts as your compass through the intricate realm of cannabis insurance, providing a blend of industry expertise and practical insights to empower businesses in this ever-evolving industry.

About Michael DeNault

My name is Michael DeNault, I am the leading the Cannabis Practice within World Insurance Associates. My goal is to build brand awareness, provide the necessary tools for Producers, and relay the wants and needs to cannabis business owners to insurance carriers and industry partners alike.

I am working with clients and partners all over the country, and I am always looking to grow my network, so lets connect and set up a meeting! I look forward to the conversations we will have!

If you have any questions, you can reach Michael DeNault at michaeldenault@worldinsurance.com

For more information on World Insurance visit: www.worldinsurance.com.

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In our first episode of Grow Sessions, Season 4, we have the pleasure of speaking with Betsey Morem and Mark Waller, Co-Founders of Morem & Waller CPAs. Join us for an enlightening conversation that revolves around the vital role that accounting practices play in the ever-evolving cannabis industry, highlighting the importance of compliance for all cannabis businesses.

As the industry continues to expand, it becomes increasingly important for businesses to adopt robust accounting practices. Join us for an episode titled, "Balancing the Books: Compliance in the Cannabis Industry" as we delve deeper into this pivotal topic.

Throughout this episode, we explore the significance of compliance, emphasizing the adherence to both local and federal regulations, and shed light on the 280E tax provision, among other noteworthy topics. Tune in now to gain a comprehensive understanding of why accounting practices and compliance are so important in the cannabis industry. Whether you're a business owner or an investor, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies to ensure the success of your cannabis business.

About Morem & Waller, CPAs

Betsy Morem, CPA, co-founder and managing partner of Morem & Waller, CPAs, PLLC, enjoys helping small businesses and start-ups create, maintain, and improve their accounting systems. She partners with CEOs, founders, and interested parties in the cannabis industry to help them stay compliant, achieve world-class financial records and financial reporting, and provide tax planning, preparation, and filing. Betsy lives in Austin, MN with her husband, Zach, and two children, Joanna and Ellis.

If you have any questions, you can reach Betsy Morem at betsy@moremwaller.cpa

Mark R. Waller, CPA, co-founder and managing partner of Morem & Waller, CPAs, PLLC, has 15+ years of experience working as a public accountant as well as a controller in the private sector. He partners with CEOs, founders, and interested parties in the cannabis industry to help them stay compliant, achieve world-class financial records and financial reporting, and provide tax planning, preparation, and filing. A graduate of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Mark lives in Minneapolis with his wife, Brigitte, and two children, Malcolm and Coco.

If you have any questions, you can reach Mark at mark@moremwaller.cpa

To learn more, please visit www.moremwaller.cpa.

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Prepare yourself for an electrifying edition of Grow Sessions because we are thrilled to have a special guest with us today! Joining us is Wendy Campbell from Jage Media / MJ Unpacked, and she is about to spill all the secrets to a successful trade show season in an episode titled "Mastering Your Trade Show Strategy for Success." If you've recently returned from the excitement of MJBizCon, then you absolutely cannot afford to miss this perfectly timed episode.

Here's a sneak peek of what awaits you:

• Carefully selecting the ideal shows that align with your specific needs
• Implementing strategic marketing, budgeting, and planning techniques
• Utilizing evaluation strategies for achieving peak performance
• Essential questions to ask show organizers before committing
• Unveiling the mysteries behind ROI (Return on Investment), ROO (Return on Objective), and ROE (Return on Experience)
• What the future of the cannabis industry looks like and much more

Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through various types of shows, from order writing exhibitions to must-attend industry events. These shows offer countless networking and branding opportunities, but are they the right fit for you? Discover how to accomplish more with less, flawlessly present your booth, and engage in continual learning.

We will also share invaluable insights on overcoming Trade Show Fatigue (yes, it's a real thing!) and provide priceless tips for a thorough post-event review and follow-up.

But hold on, there's more to – this episode is packed with surprises! Get ready for the ultimate guide to trade show success – you won't want to miss out on this brand new episode.

About Wendy Campbell, JAG Media / MJ Unpacked

When obstacles arise, you change direction to reach your goal; you do not change your decision to get there.

I am a change agent. My LIFE is letting go of resistance and doing what is necessary to create working solutions that lead to meeting and exceeding goals. It is what I am most passionate about.

With 28+ years of experience in sales, marketing, and product management, primarily for consumer packaged goods, I am more driven and more excited than ever to embrace, wholeheartedly, being a change agent as I continue my passion - - working to discover what is needed to create profit-making solutions for companies involved in the sales and marketing of cannabis consumer products.

To learn more, please visit MJ Unpacked or reach out to Wendy on Linkedin.

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In today's episode of Grow Sessions, we explore the world of cannabis and its evolving standards. Joining us is our guest David Vaillancourt, a renowned expert from The GMP Collective. Good Manufacturing Practices, commonly referred to as GMPs, play a crucial role in ensuring that products are consistently produced and controlled according to strict quality standards. These practices are not exclusive to the cannabis industry; they are essential across all sectors. Just like any product you find on the shelves of your local grocery store, cannabis products must adhere to specific GMPs to guarantee their safety and quality.

Intriguingly, the cannabis industry is still relatively young and rapidly expanding. As a result, there is ample room for improvement in ensuring the highest standards of product safety. In our latest episode, titled "GMP Standards and the Global Cannabis Market," we delve deep into this topic, shedding light on the importance of GMPs and their impact on the industry. Together we explore the current state of GMP standardization and discuss the potential for advancements in ensuring the highest level of product safety in the cannabis industry.

Join us as we embark on this important journey of understanding and enlightenment and unravel the complexities and possibilities within the realm of GMPs and their role in shaping the cannabis industry.

About David Vaillencourt, GMP Collective

David Vaillencourt, holds a Master’s of Science and is the CEO of The GMP Collective and Founder of the S3 Collective, is one of the most respected and effective change leaders in the cannabis industry. Combining his passion for a data driven approach with safety and quality, his group focuses on establishing and enabling the utilization of scientifically sound industry standards, encompassing Good Manufacturing Practices, risk mitigation strategies, and comprehensive supply chain solutions

Since 2017, he has been an active member of ASTM International's Committee D37 on Cannabis, now serving as the elected Vice Chair. In this role, he empowers over 700 fellow volunteers spanning six continents to leverage the accredited open and transparent process that brings government, academia, industry, consumers, and other relevant stakeholders to develop consensus product safety standards based on science and data. As a public speaker, educator and connector, David emphasizes the importance of unbiased consensus standards in fostering a reliable and safe marketplace.

David’s most important initiative to date is the launch of the S3 Collective. This exclusive, agnostic nonprofit foundation is the first of its kind and will effectively connect all standards and best practices to policy and regulation to build an international framework. When not working, you can look for David in the Colorado backcountry skiing and trail running with his dog, Humphrey.

To learn more, please visit GMP Collective.

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In today's episode of Grow Sessions, we are thrilled to have a conversation with Sam Andras from urban-gro. Join us as we dive into the details of bringing your cultivation vision to life, highlighting the challenges presented by shifting market conditions, evolving regulations, and competing priorities. Sam will provide valuable insights on how to construct a highly efficient facility that not only produces high-quality products but also reduces operational costs, ensuring your survival during cannabis market downturns. Join us for this episode titled, "Strategies to Survive Cannabis Market Downturns."

In this informative episode, we will explore various topics that shed light on the current challenges faced by the industry. Discover why operators are releasing mid-grade products in an increasingly educated market, the crucial role of constructing an efficient facility with minimal operational costs as the key to success, the importance of sustainable growing methods supported by solid data, and why having an experienced design and build team is absolutely necessary. And that's not all – there is so much more to uncover in this episode!

About Sam Andras, urban-gro

As the Executive Vice President of Business Development, Sam Andras brings decades of architectural and engineering design experience to the urban-gro executive team. Previously, Mr. Andras was the senior principal and partner at MJ12 Design Studio, Inc. and 2WR + Partners prior to the firms’ acquisition by urban-gro in 2021.

As the son of a general contractor, Sam has built an architectural career focusing on long-term quality. His experience working in his family business as a young professional has given him a strong understanding of construction means and methods far beyond a typical architect. His expertise has helped urban-gro become the first fully integrated architecture and engineering design firm focused on Controlled Environment Agriculture.

To learn more, visit www.urban-gro.com

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