On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Gahrey Ovalle and Hugo Rivas from the Long Island Cannabis Coalition. They discuss the evolving landscape of cannabis legislation in New York, with a particular focus on Long Island. Concentrating on recent developments in local municipalities regarding cannabis retail, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the industry, and the importance of community education to normalize cannabis use. The conversation also touches on the role of the Coal...
Jul 22, 2025•34 min•Season 2Ep. 19
On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Sheri Tarr JD, the founder and Chief Advisor at 68 Partners. Sheri is a compliance expert in the cannabis industry, who discusses the critical role of compliance in building sustainable cannabis businesses. She emphasizes the importance of understanding regulations, avoiding common compliance violations, and setting up proper procedures from the start. Sheri also highlights the significance of training staff on compliance practices and the need...
Jul 15, 2025•50 min•Season 2Ep. 18
On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Nicolas Guarino, co-founder of Jaunty. Nicolas shares his journey from Venezuela to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the cannabis industry. He discusses the challenges of starting a business, the importance of branding and distribution, and the impact of his immigrant experience on his entrepreneurial spirit. Guarino emphasizes the significance of execution in business and the need for sustainable practices in the New York cannabis market....
Jul 01, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 17
On this episode, Herb is joined by Jay Randolph Wright, from Little Beach Harvest. They discuss the journey of the Shinnecock Nation into the cannabis market, emphasizing the importance of tribal sovereignty, community impact, and the unique advantages of operating outside the New York State cannabis regulations. He highlights the dispensary's tax-free sales, the challenges faced in collaborating with state brands, and the commitment to providing high-quality, lab-tested products. Jay also share...
Jun 24, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 16
In this episode, Herb welcomes a co-host, Velvet Kavanaugh, Founder of Phenologic, to host a panel discussion on brand marketing and business development for growing small cannabis companies in New York. On the panel are the founders of three distinct New York cannabis brands: Kristina Lopez from House of Puff, Alice Biano from Pinks, and Wyatt Harms from Flamer. They discuss their brand origins, the importance of community and representation in the cannabis industry, and the unique challenges o...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Season 2Ep. 15
In this episode, Herb is joined by Dobson sisters, Melany and Freya, co-founders of Hudson Cannabis. Melany and Freya open up about their roots as second-generation cannabis farmers in New York and how they’ve grown Hudson Cannabis into a bold, values-driven brand. They dive into what it really takes to build a business in one of the most regulated and misunderstood industries today, from navigating shifting policies to overcoming financial hurdles. The sisters talk about their commitment to reg...
Jun 10, 2025•40 min•Season 2Ep. 14
In this episode Herb is joined by Dr. Lissa Skitolsky PhD. Dr Skitolsky unpacks the deep roots between Judaism and the sacred herb—from ancient texts to modern rituals. We explore rabbinical debates, diaspora influence on cultivation, and how legalization is reshaping Jewish practices in Israel, Canada, and the U.S. A powerful conversation on healing, identity, and the spiritual side of cannabis. As refered to in the podcast, you can read more about the UCLA LAbor - The State of the California C...
Jun 03, 2025•43 min•Season 2Ep. 13
In this episode, Herb is joined by Brian Applegarth, founder of Applegarth Strategies and the Cannabis Travel Association International. A recognized leader in cannabis and hemp tourism, Brian shares insights on how the industry has evolved, drawing lessons from early adopter states like Colorado and California. Together, they discuss how cannabis can be integrated into destination branding, the role of experiential travel, and the importance of smart regulation and marketing. With an estimated ...
May 27, 2025•41 min•Season 2Ep. 12
In this episode, Herb is joined by Dr. Bridget Cole Williams, a board-certified family physician and medical cannabis specialist. Dr. Williams discusses her journey into the world of medical cannabis, the establishment of her mobile mocktail bar, the Blossom Bar, and the various medical conditions where cannabis has proven beneficial. She emphasizes the importance of proper dosing, patient education, and the need for medical guidance in cannabis use, while also addressing concerns about dependen...
May 20, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 11
In this episode, Herb is joined by Professor Rob Mejia, Adjunct Professor of Cannabis Studies at Stockton University. Professor Mejia discusses his journey into cannabis education and the various career opportunities available in the cannabis industry. He highlights the distinction between plant-touching and non-plant-touching jobs, the importance of certifications, and how individuals can transition into cannabis careers. Together, Herb and Professor Mejia also address the future of cannabis jo...
May 13, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 10
In this episode, Herb is joined by Howie Rondinone. Howie shares his journey from the legacy cannabis market to becoming a licensed dispensary owner in New York. He discusses the lessons learned from his past experiences, the unique atmosphere he created at Nuna Harvest, and the importance of community engagement. Howie also reflects on the future of cannabis in New York and his plans for expansion and collaboration with local farms. Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by H...
May 06, 2025•41 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this episode, Herb is joined by Peter Su, Director of Specialty Banking at Hanover Bank, to explore the evolution of cannabis banking. With over 20 years of experience in banking and cannabis consulting, Peter offers a deep look into how cannabis banking programs have developed over the past decade and the real-world effects of federal regulations like the Cole Memo and FinCEN guidance. The conversation covers the costly logistics of cash transactions, the shift in employee payroll practices,...
Apr 29, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Brian Farmer, former Deputy Director of Compliance, former Deputy Director of Business Incubation Programs at the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Brian shares his insights on the cannabis industry, with a particular focus on his experiences at OCM in New York. He discusses the challenges and opportunities within the cannabis market, emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability, social equity, and th...
Apr 22, 2025•44 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Dasheeda Dawson, the former Founding Executive Director of Cannabis NYC, author of the bestselling 'How to Succeed in the Cannabis Industry' and Board Chair of the Cannabis Regulators of Color Coalition. Dasheeda discusses her journey in the cannabis industry, from her role as Cannabis Manager in Portland, Oregon, to founding Cannabis NYC. She highlights her efforts in transforming cannabis policy, focusing on social equity, public ...
Apr 15, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot welcomes Scheril Murray Powell Esq. She is a Cannabis, Agricultural, Dietary Supplement, Trade, Psychedelic, and Regulatory Attorney as well as a High Times Top 100 Cannabis Influencer. Herb and Scheril explore the complex history of cannabis prohibition in New York, focusing on the racial and cultural influences that shaped its trajectory. Scheril discusses the medicinal use of cannabis before prohibition, the impact of jazz culture, and the ec...
Apr 08, 2025•56 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot welcomes Kristy Zielinski, who shares her journey from owning a limo company to becoming the owner of High Tide Dispensary in New York. She discusses the challenges and insights gained while navigating the cannabis industry, the impact of the Joint Session podcast on her journey, and the importance of community support and compliance in the evolving landscape of cannabis regulations. Further Reading: California Supreme Court Action Preserves Cal...
Apr 01, 2025•21 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot welcomes Tabitha Robinson, the new director of the Maryland Cannabis Administration to the podcast. Tabatha discusses her transition from New York's cannabis regulatory landscape to Maryland. She highlights her achievements in social equity initiatives in New York, the challenges facing small businesses in Maryland, and her vision for the future of the cannabis market in the state. Tabitha emphasizes the importance of collaboration, understandin...
Mar 25, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot welcomes Dr Moe Afaneh, COO of BioTrack. They delve into the implementation of New York State's cannabis traceability system, focusing on the Seed to Sale Traceability System developed by BioTrack. Dr. Afaneh discusses the importance of this system for ensuring product safety, compliance, and preventing black market activity. The conversation also highlights the educational efforts being made to prepare the cannabis industry for this transition ...
Mar 18, 2025•23 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot welcomes Joe Rossi, a prominent figure in New York's cannabis industry and founder of Modern Advocacy LLC. They discuss the evolution of the cannabis market in New York after 4 years of the MRTA, the challenges faced by licensed operators, and the importance of social equity in the industry. Rossi shares insights on regulatory changes, legislative proposals, and the future of cannabis in the state, emphasizing the need for effective implementati...
Mar 11, 2025•44 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In this episode Herb speaks with Axel Bernabe , inaugural Chief of Staff and Senior Policy Director for the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. Axel, a partner at Manatt Health in NYC, was health counsel to former NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo. In that role, Axel helped negotiate the groundbreaking Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act with the NYS Legislature. Our Licensee Highlight segment features Paul Yau, Co-Founder of The Travel Agency (formerly, the Union Square Travel Agency). In p...
Oct 08, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In this episode Herb speaks with Tavian Crosland , New York Director of the Social Equity Empowerment Network . Tavian is an impassioned and thoughtful advocate for ensuring that the path to cannabis legalization and commercialization does not leave behind those communities and individuals who were disproportionately impacted by criminal enforcement. Tavian, a former legacy operator, shares deeply personal insights concerning his own journey with cannabis. Our Licensee Highlight segment features...
Sep 24, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 13
In this episode Herb speaks with New York City Council Member Julie Menin. Council Member Menin represents New York City’s District 5 which covers the Upper East Side of Manhattan, as well as East Harlem, Lenox Hill-Roosevelt Island, Carnegie Hill, and Yorkville. Council Member Menin’s broad history serving NYC residents as the City’s Census Director, Commissioner of Consumer Affairs, as well as Commissioner of Media and Entertainment, provides Herb the opportunity to have a wide-ranging discuss...
Sep 10, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 12
In this special two-part series Herb speaks with former NYS Office of Cannabis Management colleagues – Aaron Ghitelman , Benjamin Sheridan, and Matthew Greenberg . The group holds nothing back in a wide-ranging discussion reviewing events from enactment of the NYS Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act on March 31, 2021, through the following three years. In a conversation sure to raise eyebrows, this group brings the listener into the Office of Cannabis Management from the start of the agency un...
Aug 13, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In this special two-part series Herb speaks with former NYS Office of Cannabis Management colleagues – Aaron Ghitelman , Benjamin Sheridan, and Matthew Greenberg . The group holds nothing back in a wide-ranging discussion reviewing events from enactment of the NYS Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act on March 31, 2021, through the following three years. In a conversation sure to raise eyebrows, this group brings the listener into the Office of Cannabis Management from the start of the agency un...
Aug 13, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode Herb speaks with cannabis real estate attorney Kristin Jordan about Kentucky’s medical marijuana applications, the impetus for creating the Asian Cannabis Roundtable , and the real estate challenges facing New York’s cannabis market. Our Licensee Highlight segment features Reggie Keith, founder Buffalo’s Canna-House , a premiere cannabis event club, lifestyle brand, and resource center. Reggie’s community centered approach has positioned Canna-House for success now that he has re...
Jul 30, 2024•54 min•Season 1Ep. 9
The measure of injuries and fatalities on the country’s roadways following cannabis legalization has been haphazard and inconclusive. In this episode Herb speaks with Chuck DeWeese , former head of the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, former chair of the national Governors’ Highway Safety Association, and founder/CEO of Connecting Clients Consulting LLC. In addition to the results seen in longstanding legal jurisdictions, Herb and Chuck discuss new tools on the horizon to assi...
Jul 16, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 8
New York State’s cannabis program has been a magnet for lawsuits that have stymied progress in issuing licenses and growing the industry. Is the problem the agency’s implementation of the governing law, or is it the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act itself that is the problem? In this episode Herb speaks with attorney Fatima Afia and covers the full range of lawsuits that have been filed against the NYS Office of Cannabis Management’s adult use program. Further Reading: New York’s OCM distra...
Jul 02, 2024•53 min•Season 1Ep. 7
In this episode Herb briefly covers news items from across the country, and locally in New York, where a major report in The City , by Rosalind Adams, detailed that OCM officials repeatedly raised alarms to Governor Hochul’s team over private equity loan deal. Also, shuttered unlicensed shop owners joined to bring a class action lawsuit against New York City claiming the closures are unconstitutional. In the first segment, Herb speaks with Vladimir Bautista, CEO and Co-Founder of Happy Munkey, L...
Jun 18, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 6
In this episode Herb describes his concerns with the turmoil at the NYS Office of Cannabis Management and how that might impact the momentum in the state’s evolving cannabis industry. In the first segment, Herb speaks with Jennifer Cabrera, Esq. , a partner at Vicente, LLP, a law firm focused on cannabis law and policy. Jennifer’s work with cannabis license applicants in NY and NJ provides us with the episode’s possible subtitle - “Jennifer’s Guide to Opening a Dispensary”. This is a must-listen...
Jun 04, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 5
In this episode, Herb speaks to acclaimed author, Daniel Okrent , about his book Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition . Daniel served as the first public editor of the New York Times and invented Rotisserie League Baseball. His book, Last Call , served as a major source for the 2011 Ken Burns/Lynn Novick miniseries Prohibition. His most recent book is T he Guarded Gate:Bigotry, Eugenics, and the Law That Kept Two Generations of Jews, Italians, and Other European Immigrants Out of America ...
May 21, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 4
