In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with longtime friend and collaborator Cory Lake of World Insurance for an honest conversation about what they're seeing as Minnesota's cannabis industry moves from planning into operation.

Stephen describes their relationship as somewhere between a brother and an uncle. That history makes this conversation different. Cory and Stephen can challenge each other, laugh about the journey, and get directly into the realities facing Minnesota cannabis businesses. 

Cory shares what has changed since moving from Lakes Group Insurance to World Insurance, including access to a national team focused on cannabis and additional resources for businesses ranging from startups to larger operations.

From there, the conversation expands.

They discuss insurance requirements for dispensaries, cultivators and vertically integrated businesses, facility site visits, state-by-state compliance, Minnesota's changing hemp market, cultivation supply and testing, and why Cory believes one of the biggest operational risks in cannabis is the human element.

Cory also shares lessons learned from real insurance claims, including a cultivation facility fire caused by improperly installed lighting equipment. The story underscores why SOPs, employee training, proper installation and risk management matter just as much as having an insurance policy. 

Stephen and Cory also look ahead at the Minnesota market and discuss where opportunity may still exist for entrepreneurs entering cannabis today.

This episode covers cannabis insurance, cultivation risk, hemp, compliance, testing, cash management, entrepreneurship and the relationships helping Minnesota's industry grow.

Canna Connect Partner Network

This episode is supported by What Rebates, helping Minnesota cultivators explore available energy-efficiency incentives and utility rebates for lighting, HVAC, dehumidification and other qualifying equipment.

Learn more about What Rebates

The episode also features Evolve Payment, a Twin Cities-based company helping cannabis businesses use ACH-based digital payments as an alternative to relying entirely on cash. 

Learn more about Evolve Payment

Canna Connect works with trusted organizations across insurance, energy, payments, technology and other areas of Minnesota's cannabis ecosystem.

Connect with Cory Lake 

Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore more episodes, Community Spotlights, events and members of the Canna Connect Network.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Recorded live at CannaCon Midwest 2026 in Saint Paul, Alexis Dubourdieu of What Rebates and Tony Beman of the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) present the 2026 State of Utility Rebates in Minnesota.

Alexis and Tony walk through Minnesota's utility landscape, how facility location affects available incentives, and what cultivators should understand before purchasing equipment or committing to a buildout. They cover lighting rebates, energy efficiency, indoor cultivation eligibility, facility power requirements, inspections, rebate timelines, and the differences operators may encounter depending on their utility provider.

The presentation also includes real project examples demonstrating how energy-efficient lighting and available rebates can reduce upfront costs while creating significant long-term energy savings. 

Topics include:

•  Minnesota utility and cultivation rebate programs 
•  CEE and Xcel Energy incentives 
•  Choosing a facility based on utility territory and available power 
•  LED efficiency, PPE, and lighting rebates 
•  HVAC, dehumidification, and other qualifying equipment 
•  Microbusiness cultivation facilities 
•  Rebate reservations, inspections, and payment timelines 
•  Real-world cultivation rebate examples 
•  Why early energy planning matters 

For cultivators building or expanding in Minnesota, this session offers a practical look at an often overlooked part of facility planning: understanding the energy infrastructure and incentives before making major equipment decisions.

Recorded live at CannaCon Midwest 2026 in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Today, Travis is a licensed cannabis operator, owner of Hopkins Dispensary, and one of Minnesota's strongest voices for social equity and cannabis justice.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Travis to discuss his journey from the underground cannabis market to legal entrepreneurship, the realities of federal prison, Minnesota's legalization movement, and why he continues advocating for those still incarcerated because of outdated cannabis laws.

This conversation explores:

• Serving eight years in federal prison for cannabis
 • Life before and after legalization
 • Building Hopkins Dispensary
 • Minnesota's social equity program
 • Cannabis policy and criminal justice reform
 • Working with Freedom Grow and national advocacy organizations
 • Tribal partnerships and the future of Minnesota cannabis
 • Why legalization should never forget the people harmed by prohibition

Whether you're an entrepreneur, advocate, policymaker, or simply curious about Minnesota's evolving cannabis industry, this episode offers one of the most honest conversations we've had on the show.

Subscribe for more conversations with the people shaping Minnesota cannabis.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

According to Benjamin "Bench Plug Benny" Matsuda, it starts long before the first plant goes into the room.

Recorded live at CannaCon, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Benjamin Matsuda of Grow Pros Solutions for one of the most in-depth cultivation conversations we've had on The Canna Connect Show. As a second-generation grower and one of the industry's leading cultivation consultants, Benny shares the mindset behind designing facilities that are built to succeed from day one.

The conversation goes far beyond lighting. Benny explains why HVAC and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) are often more important than growers realize, how automation should complement experience rather than replace it, and why successful cultivation comes from understanding how every system works together.

They also discuss:

• Designing cultivation facilities from the ground up
 • Why Grow Pros became a full-service solutions company
 • Vertical integration and reducing production costs
 • Minnesota energy rebates for cultivators
 • Crop steering, sensors, and environmental control
 • Greenhouse innovation and spectrum-controlled lighting
 • Lessons from California, Oklahoma, and emerging cannabis markets
 • Why listening to cultivators drives better product innovation

Whether you're building your first cultivation facility or looking to improve an existing operation, this episode is packed with practical insights from someone who's spent years helping growers solve real-world problems.

Special thanks to our partners:
• Center for Energy & Environment 
• Local 49 
• Trailhead Cannabis Company

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann is joined by comedian Aidan McCluskey for an approachable conversation about cannabis, comedy, and Minnesota's adult-use market.

Together they discuss:

• Why cannabis costs more in Minnesota than neighboring states
 • Medical versus adult-use cannabis
 • Traveling with cannabis and understanding Minnesota law
 • How Minnesota compares to Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois
 • Why the state created a microbusiness-focused licensing system
 • Tribal cannabis programs and the future of legalization
 • Aidan's career in stand-up comedy

The episode also previews Canna Connect Brainerd, where Aidan will serve as event host while attendees experience four Community Pods designed to encourage meaningful conversations between consumers, entrepreneurs, operators, and industry professionals.

Whether you're exploring cannabis for the first time or have been following Minnesota's rollout from day one, this episode provides practical insights into today's market and what's coming next.

Our Partner Network

Canna Connect proudly partners with organizations that are helping build Minnesota's cannabis community.

Trailhead Cannabis Company is committed to creating an exceptional retail experience while supporting the growth of Minnesota's independent cannabis industry.

Dutchie provides the technology that powers modern cannabis dispensaries, making it easier for consumers to explore products and connect with licensed retailers.

Earl Giles continues to bring people together through hospitality, education, and community events that help normalize and celebrate cannabis culture in Minnesota.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this special State of the Show episode, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Creative Director Spencer Ploessl to reflect on the growth of Canna Connect and share what's ahead for the organization.

Recorded just before Canna Connect Brainerd, the conversation explores how the team is rethinking traditional cannabis networking through Community Pods, expanding into Greater Minnesota, and creating original content that connects entrepreneurs, operators, and industry professionals throughout the state.

Stephen and Spencer discuss:

•  Why Brainerd and Duluth are important markets for Minnesota cannabis 
•  The inspiration behind Community Pods 
•  Lessons learned from hosting events across the state 
•  Why authentic storytelling has become one of Canna Connect's greatest strengths 
•  Building relationships before licenses are awarded 
•  The long-term vision for Canna Connect and its growing network 

This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ideas, conversations, and community helping shape the next chapter of Minnesota cannabis.

Grab tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/canna-connect-brainerd-a-community-event-for-minnesota-cannabis-tickets-1990901599277

Our Partner Network

Canna Connect is proud to collaborate with organizations that help strengthen Minnesota's cannabis ecosystem.

Dutchie supports dispensaries with modern retail technology that improves the customer experience and streamlines operations.

Local 49 represents the skilled workforce helping build Minnesota's cannabis infrastructure and supports employers and workers across the state.

Trailhead Cannabis Company continues to demonstrate what's possible for independent cannabis operators by building community and expanding access in Northern Minnesota.

Interested in joining the Canna Connect Network? Visit CannaConnectMN.com to learn more about upcoming events, podcast episodes, community spotlights, and partnership opportunities.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Does the building have enough incoming power? Does the equipment qualify for a rebate? Is utility preapproval required? Could the project be built in phases so rebate funds from the first room help support the next?

Recorded live at CannaCon Midwest 2026 in Saint Paul, this episode brings together Alexis Dubourdieu, Chief Operating Officer at What Rebates, and Tony Beman, Sales Strategy Manager at the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) for a practical conversation about energy planning and utility rebates for Minnesota cannabis cultivation.

Alexis and Tony explain how LED grow-lighting rebates work, why available programs can differ by utility territory, and how cultivators can avoid common timing and documentation mistakes. They also explore incentives for HVAC systems, dehumidification, motors, fans, controls, and other energy-saving technologies.

But this conversation goes beyond rebates.

It's about helping Minnesota cultivators make smarter decisions before significant money is committed to a facility. From understanding available power to evaluating equipment and planning phased buildouts, early energy planning can help operators avoid costly surprises and build more efficiently for the long term.

Connect with Our Network

What Rebates helps businesses navigate utility incentive programs and identify potential rebates for energy-efficient equipment and facility improvements. Alexis and the What Rebates team work with operators to evaluate projects, available programs, and potential savings before equipment decisions are finalized.

Connect with What Rebates

Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) helps Minnesota businesses identify energy-efficiency opportunities and navigate qualifying programs. CEE's LED grow lighting rebate program provides a resource for eligible cultivation projects considering efficient lighting upgrades.

Explore CEE's LED Grow Lighting Rebates

The Canna Connect Show is supported by our growing network of partners, including What Rebates, CEE, and Evolve Payment.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with the Vice-President and Co-Owner of Frostbite Dispensary to discuss what it actually takes to build a successful cannabis retail business in Minnesota.

Jacob shares how Frostbite prepared months ahead for 4/20, built relationships with cultivators across the state, launched cannabis delivery, navigated supply shortages, and created a customer experience that keeps people coming back.

The conversation also explores Minnesota's evolving cannabis regulations, delivery logistics, product availability, medical cannabis, and what the future may hold for independent dispensaries.

Whether you're a cannabis entrepreneur, operator, cultivator, or simply curious about Minnesota's emerging industry, this episode provides an honest look behind the scenes.

Topics include:
• Building Frostbite Dispensary
• Preparing for Minnesota's first major 4/20
• Working with local cultivators
• Cannabis delivery in Minnesota
• Vape shortages and testing delays
• Customer loyalty and retail strategy
• Medical cannabis and adult-use retail
• Federal rescheduling and 280E

Our Partner Network

This episode was produced by Canna Connect, Minnesota's cannabis business network connecting operators, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals.

Special thanks to our partners:

• Dutchie
• Cure8
• Comcast Business

Interested in joining the Canna Connect Network? Visit our website to learn more about upcoming events, educational resources, podcast episodes, and partner opportunities.

Subscribe for weekly conversations with the people building Minnesota's cannabis industry.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Season 2 of The Canna Connect Show kicks off live from CannaCon St. Paul with the return of Tara Falk, Founder of Aim & Fire.

In her second appearance on the show, Tara joins Stephen Eigenmann to discuss the evolving cannabis marketplace, experiential marketing, retail activations, and why Minnesota continues to emerge as one of the country's most unique cannabis markets.

The conversation explores:

•  Building authentic cannabis brands 
•  Retail activations and field marketing 
•  Lessons from the Hemp Beverage Expo and Ignite 
•  Minnesota's evolving hemp and adult-use cannabis market 
•  Why community matters in emerging industries 
•  The future of cannabis events and networking 
•  How Aim & Fire helps brands scale through strategic execution 

Tara also shares why she continues returning to Minnesota, why she's optimistic about the future of the industry, and why organizations like Canna Connect are helping strengthen the cannabis community through education and connection.

🤝 Featured Community Partners

This episode was recorded live from CannaCon St. Paul, where Minnesota's cannabis community came together to connect, collaborate, and learn.

Special thanks to the organizations helping strengthen Minnesota's cannabis industry:

• Aim & Fire – Experiential marketing and retail activation for cannabis and hemp brands. 
• Open Window Productions – Production partner helping bring The Canna Connect Show to life. 
• Elite Capture Studio – Creative content and media production supporting the Canna Connect network. 

Interested in becoming part of the Canna Connect Community Network? Visit CannaConnectMN.com to learn more.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Steven Eigenmann sits down with Brad Obermueller of CEE (Center for Energy and Environment) to discuss how Minnesota cannabis cultivators are navigating facility buildouts, utility requirements, lighting rebates, and energy planning.

Brad shares what CEE is seeing across dozens of cultivation projects, why the Builder's Call Line is one of the most important resources available to growers, and how energy-efficient lighting systems can unlock significant savings for licensed operators.

The conversation also explores Minnesota's emerging craft cultivation ecosystem, lessons learned from early cultivation projects, and how growers can position themselves for long-term success.

Topics include:

• Minnesota cannabis cultivation infrastructure
 • Energy-efficient grow facility design
 • LED lighting rebates for cannabis businesses
 • The Builder's Call Line and utility planning
 • Frost Leaf's cultivation project case study
 • Craft cannabis cultivation in Minnesota
 • Home grow lighting rebates
 • Power consumption and cultivation planning
 • Building trust within the cannabis industry
 • The future of Minnesota cannabis cultivation

Meet Brad & the CEE Team at CannaCon

Brad and the CEE team will be exhibiting at CannaCon St. Paul on June 26-27, 2025. If you're planning a cultivation facility or exploring energy rebates for your cannabis business, stop by their booth and learn how CEE can help reduce project costs and improve long-term efficiency.

Connect with Canna Connect:

🌐 https://cannaconnectmn.com

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Patrick Doran and Benjamin Mike of Local 49 to discuss workforce development, employee protections, apprenticeship programs, labor peace agreements, and the future of cannabis employment in Minnesota.

As the state's cannabis market continues to take shape, the conversation explores how employers and workers can build sustainable businesses, develop skilled career pathways, and create opportunities that benefit both companies and employees.

Local 49 brings more than a century of experience supporting Minnesota workers, and this episode explores how that experience may translate into one of the state's newest industries. The guests also discuss craft cannabis, hemp beverages, workforce training, regulatory uncertainty, and why collaboration will be critical as the market matures. 

Get in touch with Local 49 

https://cannaconnectmn.com/contact

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann reconnects with longtime friend, former co-host, and Minnesota cannabis historian Tanner Berris for their first recorded conversation together in nearly a year.

The discussion explores how Minnesota's cannabis industry has evolved since legalization, including hemp beverages, licensing, compliance, home grow rights, cannabis advocacy, and the role of the Office of Cannabis Management.

Drawing on years of experience covering Minnesota cannabis policy and culture, Tanner shares his perspective on where the industry stands today and the challenges that still lie ahead.

Topics include:

• Minnesota cannabis history and legalization
• Hemp beverages and federal policy
• Home grow rights and advocacy
• OCM regulations and compliance
• Cannabis licensing and market development
• Community building and cannabis culture
• The future of Minnesota's cannabis industry

For listeners who have followed Minnesota cannabis over the past several years, this episode serves as both a reflection on how far the industry has come and a conversation about what comes next.

Guest: Tanner Berris
Follow Tanner's Substack: https://tannerberris.substack.com/

The Canna Connect Show highlights the entrepreneurs, advocates, policymakers, and community leaders helping shape Minnesota cannabis from the ground up.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

• Legislative updates and proposed cannabis policy changes
• Supply chain challenges for medical and adult-use operators
• The future of cannabis events and consumption lounges
• Capital access and barriers facing small businesses
• The North Star Accelerator program and supporting emerging operators
• How dispensaries can compete in a crowded marketplace
• Craft cannabis, customer experience, and local marketing
• Federal rescheduling and the future of cannabis regulation
• Hemp legislation and what it could mean for Minnesota businesses

Jen also shares her perspective on where Minnesota's cannabis market is headed as more licenses are awarded, more dispensaries open, and competition increases. 

One of the biggest themes throughout this episode is that success in cannabis won't simply come from having a license, it will come from building strong businesses, creating exceptional customer experiences, and adapting to a market that is changing faster than ever.

Sign-up for Jen's newsletter: https://northstarcannabis.beehiiv.com/

Chapter Markers
00:00 Intro & Cannabis Industry Disclaimer
01:13 Minnesota Legislative Session Update & Cannabis Priorities
02:02 Event Licenses: Adoption Challenges & Future Opportunities
03:05 Public Consumption, Event Licensing & Consumption Lounges
04:10 Medical vs Adult-Use Supply Chains Explained
05:08 Why Unifying the Supply Chain Matters for Small Operators
06:32 Vireo, GTI & the Challenges of Medical Market Reform
07:05 Federal Rescheduling, DEA Hearings & What Comes Next
08:14 Rescheduling vs Descheduling: The Future of Cannabis Policy
09:17 Hemp, Marijuana & Why Cannabis Needs One Definition
10:34 Launching a Minnesota THC Beverage Brand
11:30 Jen Reise's Journey from Attorney to Cannabis Consultant
12:45 Building North Star Cannabis Consulting & Industry Education
13:15 Inside the North Star Accelerator Program
15:05 Opening a Dispensary Is Just the Beginning
15:40 Will Minnesota Have Too Many Dispensaries?
23:00 Consumer Education & Supporting Local Cannabis Businesses
27:24 How Small Cannabis Operators Can Compete and Win
30:00 Social Equity, Capital Access & Industry Challenges
35:00 The Future of Hemp Beverages & the Federal Hemp Debate

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Steven Eigenmann sits down with Mark Carlson of The John Roberts Company to talk about the intersection of packaging, branding, entrepreneurship, and Minnesota cannabis culture.

After decades working in printing and packaging across markets like Colorado, California, Oregon, and Washington, Mark witnessed firsthand how cannabis evolved into a billion-dollar industry and how packaging became a major part of compliance, branding, and customer experience.

The conversation explores:

•  Cannabis packaging and compliant branding 
•  Minnesota’s growing hemp-derived THC beverage market 
•  Why packaging matters in a competitive cannabis industry 
•  Leadership lessons from athletics and business 
•  Mentorship, trust, and relationship-building 
•  Supporting small cannabis businesses 
•  The evolution of print and packaging technology 

Mark also reflects on his time at the University of Minnesota, learning from leaders like Tony Dungy and Mike Shanahan, and why trust remains the foundation of both business and leadership.

The Canna Connect Show highlights the builders, innovators, and community leaders helping shape Minnesota cannabis from the ground up.

Chapter Markers

00:00 Disclaimer
 00:45 Introducing Mark Carlson of The John Roberts Company
 01:00 Minnesota Cannabis Growth & Hemp Beverage Packaging
 02:55 Early Exposure to Cannabis Packaging Through Heidelberg
 04:20 Watching Cannabis Markets Grow Across the U.S.
 05:40 Why Packaging Matters in Cannabis Branding
 06:35 Supporting Cannabis Businesses Through Print & Packaging
 07:45 Joining The John Roberts Company After 34 Years
 09:25 Growing Up in Chicago & Winning a State Championship
 11:20 Leadership Lessons from Sports & Business
 12:00 Tony Dungy, Recruitment & the Big Ten
 14:25 Mike Shanahan & Coaching Leadership
 16:30 Athletics, Business & Life Lessons
 18:20 How Printing & Media Have Changed
 19:00 Leadership, Mentorship & Building Trust
 22:00 75 Years of The John Roberts Company
 23:00 Packaging for Minnesota Cannabis Brands
 24:00 Why Customer Service Still Wins
 25:00 Hemp Beverages Are Exploding in Minnesota
 25:30 The Future of Cannabis Packaging & Regulation

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann talks with Brandon Padget, Chief Deposit Officer at Union Bank & Trust, about the realities of cannabis banking and the infrastructure needed to support a growing legal market.

Brandon shares the story behind Union Bank & Trust’s approach to cannabis, why their team believes banking should be accessible for entrepreneurs, and how thoughtful financial systems can help businesses grow sustainably.

The conversation explores:

•  Cannabis banking compliance 
•  Supporting cannabis entrepreneurs in Minnesota 
•  Banking fees and financial accessibility 
•  Workforce development and union values 
•  Building long-term cannabis careers 
•  The role of community partnerships 
•  Cannabis as a professional and skilled industry 

This episode offers an inside look at one of the least understood but most important parts of the cannabis industry: access to financial services and the people working to make that access better.

The Canna Connect Show highlights the builders, advocates, entrepreneurs, and organizations shaping Minnesota cannabis culture from the ground up.

#CannaConnectMN #MinnesotaCannabis #CannabisPodcast #CannabisBanking

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann is joined by Tony Beman of the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) to explore how cannabis businesses can reduce costs through lighting rebates, energy-efficient systems, and smarter facility planning.

Tony shares insights on:

•  LED lighting rebates for cannabis businesses 
•  Why energy infrastructure matters more than most operators realize 
•  Real estate challenges facing Minnesota cultivators 
•  The economics of cannabis cultivation 
•  How Xcel Energy programs support microbusinesses 
•  Long-term planning for cannabis entrepreneurs 
•  Why efficient grow design can dramatically improve runway and profitability 

This conversation offers a practical look at the business side of cannabis and the systems helping shape Minnesota’s emerging market.

The Canna Connect Show highlights the people, businesses, and conversations building Minnesota cannabis culture from the ground up.

#CannaConnectMN #MinnesotaCannabis #CannabisPodcast

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this special episode of The Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Don Raleigh III of Evolve Payment to talk about the evolution of cannabis in Minnesota ahead of the Evolving the Industry event happening May 14th at The Minneapolis Club.

Together, they discuss:

•  the rapid growth of Minnesota cannabis 
•  why compliant payment systems matter 
•  the hidden costs of cash-heavy operations 
•  NECANN and the importance of industry collaboration 
•  cannabis banking challenges 
•  what operators should know about payment compliance 
•  how Minnesota cannabis is becoming more mainstream 

The conversation also highlights the importance of community, relationships, and celebrating the operators building this industry from the ground up.

If you’re working in cannabis, curious about the future of the market, or planning to attend NECANN week in Minneapolis, this episode captures a unique snapshot of where the industry stands today and where it’s heading next.

🎧 Presented by Canna Connect and Evolve Payment.

📍 Evolving the Industry
 May 14, 2026
 The Minneapolis Club
 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Grab tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1985763963470

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, we sit down with Elizabeth live from Lucky Leaf to talk about cannabis beverages, hemp regulation, product quality, education, and how the industry is evolving.

We discuss:

•  THC drinks and mainstream adoption 
•  Why cannabis quality goes beyond THC percentage 
•  Hemp vs marijuana regulation 
•  Cannabis as a harm reduction alternative to alcohol 
•  Elizabeth’s path from corporate consulting into cannabis 
•  The creation of the Ganjier Guild and cannabis education movement 

This is one of the broader conversations we’ve had about where cannabis culture and infrastructure are heading next.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

It’s about people, culture, and creating something that reflects the community it serves.

In this episode, recorded live at Lucky Leaf Expo, we sit down with the team behind NativeCare to talk about what it means to build with intention in a new market.

Terrell Charnoski and Shyanne McDaniel share their perspective on launching in Minnesota, the importance of representation, and how NativeCare is approaching cannabis differently.

This isn’t just about opening doors. It’s about doing it the right way.

We talk about:

•  What NativeCare is building in Minnesota 
•  The role of culture and community in cannabis 
•  Navigating a brand new market as it unfolds 
•  Why collaboration matters more than competition right now 

As the industry grows, the voices shaping it matter.

This is one of those voices.

Listen in and stay connected with the community.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

This episode pulls back the curtain.

Recorded at Lucky Leaf Expo, we sit down with Chad Stout and Brock Friesen to talk about Tokahe Distribution and the broader ecosystem being built through Prairie Island’s cannabis operations.

From cultivation to manufacturing to distribution, this is one of the most ambitious vertically integrated efforts in Minnesota.

And it’s happening in real time.

We get into:

•  Building a cannabis operation across multiple business units 
•  The reality of scaling from startup to full organization 
•  How tribal cannabis is entering and shaping the state market 
•  The challenges of compliance, logistics, and distribution 
•  Why timing matters when launching in a new market 

This conversation captures what it looks like to build the infrastructure of an industry while it’s still forming.

Minnesota cannabis is coming to life, and distribution is a big part of that story.

Listen in and stay connected with the community.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, we sit down with Teresa Sorensen, founder of Unwind, to talk about how a 33-year career in banking unexpectedly led her into Minnesota’s cannabis industry.

What started with THC beverages selling quickly inside her liquor store turned into something much bigger. As regulations changed and consumer demand grew, Teresa saw an opening to build a new kind of retail experience centered around relaxation, education, and a different relationship with adult beverages.

That vision became Unwind.

In this conversation, Teresa shares what it was like to pivot from traditional banking into entrepreneurship, navigate a fast-changing market, and build a cannabis retail brand in real time.

We also discuss:

•  The early THC beverage boom in Minnesota 
•  Why consumers are seeking alternatives to alcohol 
•  Transitioning from corporate leadership into cannabis 
•  Building a brand around lifestyle and wellness 
•  What it takes to adapt in an emerging industry 

This is a story about paying attention, trusting your instincts, and building when opportunity shows up.

Listen in and stay connected with the community.

Join the conversation: #CannaConnectMN

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Bridgette Pinder has done both.

In this episode, recorded live at Lucky Leaf Expo, we sit down with the founder of Grounded Gardens to talk about what it really takes to grow something from nothing in Minnesota’s cannabis space.

From purchasing her great grandparents’ land in Hutchinson to building a vertically integrated hemp operation, Bridgette shares the real story behind the work. The long days, the setbacks, and the constant need to adapt in an industry that changes by the week.

This conversation goes deeper than business. It’s about resilience, community, and choosing a different path when the odds aren’t in your favor.

We also get into:

•  Building a cannabis business rooted in family land 
•  The early days of hemp farming in Minnesota 
•  Navigating challenges like banking, websites, and regulation 
•  Why community has always been at the center of the movement 

Minnesota cannabis didn’t just appear. It was built by people like Bridgette, one step at a time.

Listen in and stay connected with the community.

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Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, recorded live at Lucky Leaf Expo, Ryan shares his journey from traditional sales into the cannabis industry and how that shift gave him a sense of purpose and direction.

Now with Sweed, he’s working directly with dispensary operators across the country, helping them simplify operations, stay compliant, and actually scale their businesses in an industry that moves fast and changes even faster.

This conversation explores what cannabis retail looks like behind the counter, from pricing shifts in mature markets like Colorado to the early opportunities taking shape in Minnesota.

Ryan also breaks down how Sweed is rethinking point of sale by building a fully integrated system that connects marketing, e-commerce, inventory, and payments into one place. The goal is simple: make it easier for operators to run a smarter, more efficient business.

Along the way, we talk about AI in cannabis retail, the importance of community in Minnesota’s market, and why every operator should be thinking about both growth and exit strategy from day one.

If you’re building in cannabis or planning to, this episode offers a grounded, real-world perspective on what it actually takes to succeed.

Listen in and stay connected with the community.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

One year ago, Minnesota was still asking basic questions about supply, access, and who would enter the space. Today, the conversation is evolving into something more complex.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, recorded live at Lucky Leaf Expo, Gus Sevastos from Dutchie shares a grounded perspective on what happens after a market launches and begins to mature.

Gus has worked across multiple cannabis markets and brings insight from both emerging and established states. He breaks down how early-stage chaos turns into structured operations, and why having the right systems in place becomes critical as competition grows.

We also explore how Dutchie is helping operators manage everything from compliance and inventory tracking to e-commerce and customer engagement, all within one connected platform.

Along the way, we talk about product shortages, pricing shifts, and the importance of strong community in building a sustainable cannabis industry.

If you’re operating in cannabis or preparing to enter the space, this episode offers a real-world look at what it takes to build for the long term.

Listen in and stay connected with the community.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

They fail because of what’s underneath it.

The systems.
 The people.
 The infrastructure.

Live from Lucky Leaf in Minneapolis, we sat down with Shawn Wirth from Paragon Payroll to talk about the side of cannabis that doesn’t always get attention, but affects everything.

From payroll disruption to employee experience, this conversation is really about what happens when businesses grow faster than their foundation.

Shawn shares his path into cannabis, what drew him to Paragon, and why he believes most operators are still too reactive when it comes to HR and payroll.

Learn more about Shawn in our Community Spotlight

We get into:

• Why payroll issues impact real people, not just operations 
 • How poor infrastructure can cause businesses to collapse under growth
 • What Human Capital Management actually looks like in practice
 • Why most cannabis operators wait too long to fix internal systems
 • The importance of building proactively instead of reacting to problems

One of the biggest takeaways?

The businesses that last are the ones that invest in their people and their systems early.

Everything else builds on top of that.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Not about branding.
 Not about product.

About the numbers.

Live from Lucky Leaf in Minneapolis, we sat down with Mark Waller and Betsy Mooreham of SAX Advisory Group to talk about what it really takes to build a sustainable cannabis business from a financial perspective.

This conversation starts with their transition from Moore & Waller CPAs into SAX, a national firm with a growing cannabis practice. But what it turns into is something bigger.

A conversation about scale, support, and what operators actually need as this industry matures.

We get into:

• Why joining a larger firm unlocks better tax strategy and support 
 • How stronger financial infrastructure leads to better decision making
 • The reality of tax planning in cannabis and why it’s still evolving
 • What rescheduling could mean for cash flow and compliance
 • Why the most successful operators think like business owners first

One of the biggest takeaways?

The operators who succeed in cannabis aren’t just passionate about the plant.

They understand the business.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

At Lucky Leaf in Minneapolis, that conversation came to the forefront in a way that felt real, grounded, and necessary.

Cory Lake of World Insurance and Jim McErlean of Cannasure joined us to talk about what it actually takes to protect a cannabis business in today’s environment. Not just policies on paper, but real-world risk, real claims, and the reality operators are navigating every day.

We talked about theft being the most common claim, why cannabis businesses are held to higher standards than pharmacies, and how the lack of shared data across the industry continues to shape pricing and coverage. 

It’s also a story about growth.

As operators scale, their risks evolve. And as the industry matures, so does the need for better infrastructure, stronger partnerships, and smarter protection.

This is one of those conversations that might change how you think about building in cannabis.

Listen in.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, we sat down with Dan Mondello and Alex Abrams of Rank Really High to unpack one of the biggest missed opportunities in cannabis right now: your website.

From invisible menus to broken data tracking, they explain why most operators are investing time and money into systems that Google can’t even see. And more importantly, what it looks like to fix it.

This conversation dives into native e-commerce, customer funnel visibility, and why your website should be your most powerful revenue driver, not just a digital brochure. 

We also get into real operator stories, early adoption lessons, and how AI is starting to reshape how cannabis businesses connect with customers.

If you’ve ever wondered why traffic isn’t converting, this episode will change how you think about your entire digital strategy.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, we sat down with Nate Geary of Range Marketing at Lucky Leaf in Minneapolis to talk about what it really looks like to grow a cannabis business in emerging markets.

Nate breaks down the realities behind dispensary marketing, from navigating local competition to understanding how market size changes everything. What works in Brooklyn won’t work in Buffalo. And what works in theory often falls apart in practice.

We also get into the overlooked challenges operators face, like licensing timelines, real estate pressure, and the hidden cost of just getting open. 

This is a conversation about adapting, staying realistic, and building something that actually lasts.

If you're an operator, marketer, or just trying to understand where this industry is headed, this one hits.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

You can feel it in the conversations.
 You can see it in the rooms.
 And you definitely feel it at events like Lucky Leaf.

Live from the Minneapolis Convention Center, we sat down with Mackenzie Ziegler from Surfside to talk about what’s actually happening behind the scenes as Minnesota steps into adult-use cannabis.

This isn’t just a conversation about marketing.

It’s about how brands find their customers in a space where the rules are still being written.

Mackenzie has spent over a decade in cannabis and nearly five years with Surfside, helping operators across the country connect data, advertising, and real customer behavior.

And what she shares here is something a lot of people are still trying to figure out.

In this episode, we get into:

• Why cannabis marketing is more restricted and more complex than most industries
 • How Surfside helps brands reach real consumers across mobile, apps, and connected devices 
 • The power of data and why measurement is everything for operators
 • What makes Minnesota’s market unique right now
 • Why testing and compliance are still major bottlenecks
 • How retailers can actually generate new revenue through retail media
 • The story behind Surfside’s “Third Thursday” events and why community still matters

One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation:

Cannabis businesses are expected to operate at a higher level of compliance, with fewer tools, and less historical data than almost any other industry.

And yet, they’re still building something real.

📍 Recorded live at Lucky Leaf 2026
 📍 Minneapolis Convention Center

Stay connected with the Canna Connect community
 https://cannaconnectmn.com

Got thoughts on this episode?
 Tag us and join the conversation using #CannaConnectMN

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Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Between the two of them, there’s a deep understanding of what cannabis operators actually deal with day to day. Compliance. Risk. Moving money safely. And figuring it all out while the industry is still taking shape.

Oliver brings a background in branch operations, compliance, and risk management, helping businesses get set up the right way from the start. Paul works closely with operators on treasury management, helping them understand how to move money, protect their accounts, and build systems that actually scale.

This conversation goes beyond surface-level banking talk.

We get into:

•  Why most cannabis businesses are still learning as they go 
•  What treasury management actually means in real terms 
•  How Minnesota is shifting from early “dreamer” energy to real operators 
•  Why Union Bank & Trust chose to keep fees low and focus on long-term growth 

There’s also a bigger story here.

As a bank backed by labor unions in the Twin Cities, their approach is rooted in supporting working people and building something sustainable within cannabis.

If you’re operating in Minnesota or preparing to enter the space, this episode gives a clear, honest look at what banking can look like when it’s done right.

🎧 Listen now
 📺 Full video drops at 4:20 PM
 New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday

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Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

This was our first time working directly together, and it was clear right away that the focus is on doing things the right way. Supporting operators, understanding the risks, and building systems that actually hold up.

One theme came up throughout the conversation.

Compliance.

As Scott put it, if you don’t get compliance right, regulators can step in and shut things down. 

That reality shapes how banks approach this industry and what operators need to be prepared for before they ever walk through the door.

We also talk through:

• Why some operators hear “no” early in the process (“dream crushing”)

• The three things banks look for: commercial experience, working capital, and business acumen

• How United Prairie approached cannabis by building compliance first, before opening accounts or lending

• Why cannabis banking is ultimately a risk management decision

This is a straightforward conversation for people who are actually building.

Appreciate Scott and the United Prairie team for taking the time and being part of it.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Energy.

From LED rebates to real estate challenges, this conversation breaks down how early decisions around power, lighting, and facility setup can impact cost, timelines, and long-term success.

We also discuss:

•  Xcel Energy territory and eligibility 
•  Six-figure rebate opportunities 
•  Real estate challenges in Minnesota 
•  How operators can avoid costly delays 

If you're building or planning in Minnesota, this is a conversation worth paying attention to.

Real Estate Map Referenced in the Episode

#CannaConnectMN

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Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Drying and curing.

Ed breaks down how small inefficiencies after harvest can lead to meaningful losses for operators, especially in emerging markets like Minnesota where pricing is still strong.

We also talk about consistency, and why it’s one of the most important factors in building a cannabis brand that people come back to.

In this episode:

•  What most growers get wrong after harvest 
•  How drying impacts yield, quality, and profitability 
•  Why consistency is what separates brands long term 
•  The role of process and standardization in scaling operations 
•  New Cannatrol products and what’s coming next 

This episode is part of our Live from Lucky Leaf series, where we’re documenting the people building Minnesota cannabis in real time.

Connect with Cannatrol: https://www.cannatrols.com

Follow Canna Connect for more conversations like this: https://cannaverse-newsletter.beehiiv.com/

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Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

With nearly 100 years of history, Local 49 is stepping into the Minnesota cannabis industry with a focus on partnership, worker protection, and simplifying benefits for business owners.

We cover pensions vs 401k plans, Labor Peace Agreements, microbusiness support, and how unions are positioning themselves in cannabis and hemp.

If you’re an operator, builder, or just curious about where labor fits into this industry, this conversation offers a grounded perspective.

Chapters:
 0:00 Disclaimer
 0:44 Introduction
 1:35 The 100-Year History of Local 49
 2:17 Benjamin Mike’s Career Path
 4:22 Benefits Provided by Local 49
 5:08 “We Were Told 401k’s Were the Future”
 8:05 Goals in the Cannabis Industry
 9:45 How Unions Entered Hemp & Cannabis
 11:00 Craft Brewery & Hemp Beverage Involvement
 12:26 Supporting the Cannabis Industry
 13:40 What Local 49 Offers Business Owners
 16:36 Labor Peace Agreements Explained
 20:30 Mental Health Support & Benefits
 23:20 How to Get in Touch with Local 49

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of the Canna Connect Show, Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Carol from Hellmuth & Johnson to talk about what it really means to practice law in a brand new industry.

From interpreting unclear statutes to helping clients navigate risk without a clear roadmap, Carol shares the realities behind the work. As she explains, there is no scoreboard until enforcement happens and that creates a constant balancing act for both attorneys and operators. 

The conversation also breaks down a major recent win where her team challenged an OCM policy that attempted to restrict direct shipping of hemp products. The outcome reinforced an important idea that has been true since the early days of hemp in Minnesota: access matters, and so does protecting in-state businesses.

This episode covers:
 • The challenges of practicing cannabis law in Minnesota
 • How legal interpretation shapes the industry
 • The story behind the OCM shipping case
 • Why collaboration across operators and attorneys matters
 • The importance of rural access and local economies
 • What the future of Minnesota cannabis could look like

At its core, this is a story about people building something new together. From early community meetups to courtroom decisions, every step is shaping what comes next.

Connect with us at the next event.
 Tag us to be featured and join the community using #CannaConnectMN

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

As a cannabis policy advocate, Jason has spent many hours at the Minnesota State Capitol. In 2022, Jason successfully lobbied in favor of Minnesota’s “edible cannabinoid product” law, which sparked an explosion in the popularity of hemp-derived THC beverages throughout Minnesota and the United States. In 2023, he advocated for Minnesota’s passage of an adult-use cannabis bill. Today, Jason continues to strive for sensible policy as Minnesota implements its adult-use cannabis program while expanding its trailblazing hemp-derived THC beverage industry. 

In this episode, I sit down with Jason and talk about our long history of working together to connect and improve Minnesota cannabis for hemp entrepreneurs, homegrowers, tribal businesses, consumers, and medical patients. We discuss how Vicente got started, and why it might not be a good idea to have more dispensaries than Starbucks in the Twin Cities. 

We cover Jason’s optimism and his hope for equilibrium in 2026 as it relates to supply and demand within Minnesota’s cannabis industry. We also touch on the Wisconsin cannabis industry, or lack thereof, and his work with Tribal organizations who are interested in the Minnesota model and how they can replicate something similar in their state. The only problem? Wisconsin doesn’t even have a medical cannabis program! 

Lastly, we clear up a misconception around one of Jason’s clients and his involvement in the delay of the social equity lottery. 

This is a really great episode if you’re interested in the Minnesota cannabis industry and the greater opportunity across the midwest. Thanks for listening. 

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, host Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Gus Sevastos of Dutchie to unpack what Minnesota cannabis operators are actually facing as the market enters 2026.

As the early “gold rush” gives way to the grind, Stephen and Gus break down the realities behind the headlines—from limited wholesale supply and testing bottlenecks to why culture and community are becoming survival tools for dispensaries.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why 40+ Minnesota retailers are competing for product from a handful of wholesalers
• How operators can manage overhead in a margin-tight market
• What Dutchie is changing in its platform to support supply-constrained states
• Why “Names to Faces” networking matters more than menus and marketing
• The difference between getting licensed—and building something that lasts
• Plus: a quick football detour, because culture still matters off the clock too

Whether you’re an operator, aspiring entrepreneur, or industry professional watching Minnesota’s rollout closely, this conversation offers a clear-eyed look at what it really takes to succeed after the doors open.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

🔗 Connect with Gus Sevastos

Dutchie: https://business.dutchie.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-sevastos

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

📬 Join The Cannaverse

Get Minnesota cannabis insights, event announcements, and industry updates delivered straight to your inbox:
 👉 https://cannaverse-newsletter.beehiiv.com

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

🎙 Sponsored by the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE)

In a market where every dollar counts, CEE helps cannabis operators lower overhead through free energy consultations and LED lighting rebates.
Learn more: https://www.mncee.org/growLED

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

🌱 About Canna Connect MN

Canna Connect is Minnesota’s community hub for cannabis education, networking, and growth—bringing together operators, professionals, and consumers through trusted conversations and real-world events.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

In this episode, Luke opens up about his story, his evolving relationship with alcohol, how cannabis became medicine for him, and why accessible education matters. Stephen shares field insights from product research and testing, and the two dig into homegrow, compliance, low-dose edibles, and how acceptance is growing across the state.

Connect with Luke

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-mccapes-85024b249/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luke.mccapes

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If this episode helped you, share it with a friend and tag us so we can amplify your story. Use #CannaConnectMN and connect with the community.

Disclaimer
 This content is for adults 21+ and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical, legal, or financial advice. Always follow local laws and regulations.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Cat shares the true, accidental origin story behind one of the most famous strains in cannabis history, including how a sticky phone call led to a cultural phenomenon—and eventually, a high-stakes federal trademark lawsuit. From there, the conversation widens into Cat’s 30-year journey through cannabis: operating in the underground market, leading licensed facilities as a Director of Operations and CEO, and navigating the realities of scaling cannabis businesses in highly regulated states.

Now back in her home state of Minnesota, Cat is focused on normalization, education, and building sustainable operations through Süga Canna Co. She breaks down what actually separates strong operators from struggling ones, the differences between medical and adult-use markets, and what Minnesota must get right as the industry continues to take shape.

This episode is a must-listen for operators, legacy growers, and anyone interested in how cannabis moves from the shadows into legitimate, compliant, and scalable businesses.

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Andrew’s story begins long before legalization headlines. As a farmer, activist, and home grower, he traces his journey from Minnesota’s early medical cannabis days to becoming a hopeful applicant in the adult-use market—only to watch the system shift beneath his feet. This episode captures the growing disconnect between state-level policy decisions and the realities faced by farmers, small cultivators, and rural communities.

Throughout the conversation, Stephen and Andrew unpack:

• Andrew’s activist roots and early exposure to cannabis policy
• Minnesota’s medical cannabis beginnings and the promise of legalization
• Red flags for small cultivators as rules and taxes changed mid-process
• Cannabis as medicine, cannabinoids, terpenes, phenohunting, and home-grow genetics
• The social equity license program and microbusiness restrictions
• Local government resistance, county-level ordinances, and agricultural conflicts
• The role of the League of Cities and breakdowns in county communication
• When and why Andrew ultimately walked away from pursuing a Minnesota license

This episode is not about hype or shortcuts. It’s about documenting lived experience, understanding how well-intentioned policy can create unintended harm, and preserving the voices of those who felt excluded from shaping Minnesota’s cannabis future.

If you care about cannabis policy, agricultural inclusion, or the long-term health of Minnesota’s legal market, this is a conversation worth hearing.

⏱️ Episode Timestamps

0:00 – Disclaimer
 0:45 – Welcome & episode preview
 1:30 – Interview begins
 2:05 – Andrew’s activist beginnings
 2:55 – Minnesota’s medical cannabis beginnings
 4:38 – Farming background: livestock, chickens, eggs
 9:00 – Red flags for small cultivators
 13:20 – The tax jump from 10% to 15%
 14:45 – Understanding cannabinoids
 16:55 – Home growing process
 18:25 – Cannabis as medicine
 19:59 – Terpenes
 20:38 – Access to cannabinoids over time
 21:11 – Phenohunting
 22:35 – Creating new genetics & regional growing conditions
 23:27 – Minnesota’s social equity license
 24:55 – When things changed as an applicant
 28:00 – Microbusiness restrictions
 30:30 – Social equity lottery delays
 35:10 – Local government regulation challenges
 40:00 – Goodhue County communication issues
 41:45 – League of Cities involvement
 44:00 – Anti-agriculture outcomes of county statutes
 45:25 – OCM formation amid medical & hemp market imbalance
 46:16 – Walking away from licensure
 49:11 – Speaking directly to county government

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 If this helped, share it with a Minnesota operator who is getting started. Tag your takeaways with #CannaConnectMN and subscribe for upcoming podcasts and panels. 

Become Part of the Canna Connect Community Network

Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

Drew shares the origin story of his journey with Boveda, starting in a cigar lounge in Minnetonka, and discusses the brand's evolution into the newly launched Vivi Cure Packs. We explore why moisture isn’t just about weight—it’s about protecting the "Ethic of the Plant" and ensuring that every consumer has an incredible experience, every time.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The Science of Vivi: How the new Vivi Cure Packs differ from traditional Boveda packs and why they are a game-changer for homegrowers and commercial facilities alike.
• The Philosophy of Branding: Why the best marketing focuses on the feeling of a product rather than the specs.
• Cannabis for Good: Drew’s advocacy for veterans and the power of cannabis as medicine for PTSD and recovery.
• Market Trends: A look at the "Velocity of Vivi," the low-dose market, and the comparison between cannabis and alcohol culture.

Whether you’re a legacy grower or a curious consumer, Drew’s "people-first" approach to the industry offers a refreshing look at where the market is headed in 2026 and beyond.

⏳ Episode Chapters:

• [00:00] Disclaimer & Introduction
• [01:34] Interview Begins: The Boveda Origin Story
• [04:34] The Trifecta: Cigars, Guitars, & Cannabis
• [06:11] The Birth of Vivi: Evolving the Boveda Legacy
• [09:18] Respecting the Ethic of the Plant
• [12:44] Drew’s Personal History with Recovery & Advocacy
• [15:04] Why Quality Control is the Best Marketing
• [22:30] Understanding the "Velocity" of Vivi Cure Packs
• [29:10] The Deep Science: How Vivi Protects Terpenes
• [33:20] Storage Solutions: EVaults and the Future of CVaults
• [41:35] Lessons from the Field: The Woody Nelson Story
• [44:10] If Boveda Were a Car Brand, What Would It Be?
• [52:53] Cannabis as Medicine & Veterans’ Rights
• [57:40] Why the Homegrower is the Heart of the Industry
• [1:01:00] Closing Thoughts & Featured Journalist Rachelle Gordon

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• Shop Vivi Cure Packs: vivipacks.com
• Connect with Drew Emmer: LinkedIn
• Subscribe to The Cannaverse: Newsletter Link

Enjoyed the show? Leave us a review on Apple or Spotify and subscribe for more deep dives into the world of cannabis.

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Every episode, Community Spotlight, and partner profile helps connect Minnesota's cannabis industry. Visit CannaConnectMN.com to explore interviews, resources, events, and the trusted organizations helping shape the future of cannabis in Minnesota.