Cannabis Consumption Lounges: Domain of a Good Old Boys Club?

Cannabis Consumption Lounges: Domain of a Good Old Boys Club?

Sara Stewart (@mssarastew), long term participant and activist in the cannabis industry, recently posted an insightful piece on LinkedIn (view post here). Sara proudly and boldly suggested that cannabis consumption venues were principally the domain of a “good old boys” club, which for a variety of reasons (mostly valid!) doomed the advancement of this much needed addition to the Cannabis Community.  First, thank you, Sara, for sharing your perspective and your continuing advocacy for the greater good of our industry. Consumption venues continue to be one of the most underserved, yet one of the most in demand, sectors of the cannabis industry. While one might attribute this to cumbersome and restrictive regulations, that has been, and continues to be, the plight of the entire industry. From a development perspective, the marketplace will soon determine whether it wants cannabis consumption venues to resemble sports bars or Starbucks; fine dining or casual food service; a “go to” destination or an alternative to retail options.

Whatever aspect of the industry you choose to look at or enter, there are some constants: aggression is not a substitute for research; trust is developed by preparation and proper vetting - not simply “knowing” someone or liking weed; reputation is built by performance - not bravado; and of course, cannabis is not a “get rich quick” scheme! Often asked, I always advise that when entering “the game," plan on having twice as much capital as you think you need and that will be half as much as required!

That said, the talent pool in our industry is amazing, and the contributions of women in cannabis incredible.  Including women at all levels is not a nod to feminism or inclusion, but simply good business!  The contributions Sara continues to make, are a testament to the commitment to the energy, passion, and expertise women bring to the table at all levels.

At a granular level, three of the top executives at HighBridge Premium Cannabis are women.  The growth, reputation, and success of HighBridge is a direct result of their contributions. So “thank you” to the Women of HighBridge: Vicky Hunter, Founder/CAO; Belinda Muehlbauer, Director of Operations; and Amanda Kowalewski, Director of Marketing and Social Media. Though not routinely recognized, their contributions are visible daily and always appreciated.

With the evolution of HighBridge from an idea to a multi-state operation with a developing international footprint, I have had the distinct pleasure of meeting and interacting with talented women that are industry leaders at so many levels.  A few examples, “Thank You” to the following women:

  • Sara Gullickson (AZ), (saragullickson.com), international consultant and industry leader in cannabis licensing and education
  • Kelly Ann Lewis-Bortman (NV/CA), (covalentcbd.com), owner of Covalent Custom Cannabinoids, leader in custom product development
  • Megan Poepping-Widor (MN), (bernicks.com) Cannabis Sales & Brand Manager at Bernick’s Distributing
  • Mary Szomjassy Brown (WA), (mary@coast2coast.consulting), Founder of Coast-to-Coast Consulting International, leader in cannabinoid exports and importation with background in health and wellness
  • Paige MacNeill (MI), (vertosa.com), Account Executive at Vertosa, the leader in THC emulsions
  • Danielle Bernstein (CA), (laurelcrest.com) President of LaurelCrest, a leader in Hemp specific extractions and worldwide distribution
  • Sasha Kalcheff-Korn (CO), (realmofcaring.org), Executive Director of Realm of Caring. Sasha’s tireless efforts on behalf of RoC make it a leader in charitable partnering - especially for the cannabis industry

And so many others!  Cannabis advocates one and all. Each with amazing drive, energy, talent, passion and skill sets. HighBridge encourages all women to contact and join the various Women in Cannabis organizations. We also encourage everyone to better utilize those organizations as a resource for information, talent, and guidance.

James Hunter, CEO

HighBridge Premium Cannabis

highbridgepremium.com

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