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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