High Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast

????? Join us on High Spirits as Ben & AnnaRae dive into a hot topic that's reshaping the landscape of the cannabis beverage industry. As states begin to align hemp beverage regulations with those governing alcohol, the implications for brands, manufacturers, distributors, and consumers are significant. This episode explores the legislative shift that is integrating hemp beverages into the alcohol regulatory framework, spotlighting new challenges and opportunities within the industry, and breaking down some of the common contract language found in this environment. ?? ?????????? ???????? ??????????????: In this discussion, we're joined by Neil M. Willner, Counsel at Vicente LLP. Neil brings his extensive expertise in cannabis regulatory and compliance matters, focusing particularly on the evolving intersection of hemp and regulated marijuana industries. With states like Arkansas, Arizona, Illinois, and several others proposing legislation that would treat hemp beverages similarly to alcohol, Neil will unpack what these changes mean for the future of the industry. ?? ???????? ??????'???? ??????????: ?????????????????????? ??????????????????: An overview of recent state proposals that could redefine hemp beverage regulations. ???????????? ???? ???????????????? ????????????????????????: How the new regulatory environment might affect everyone from small producers to large distributors. ?????????????????? ??????????????????????: Insight into how companies can navigate and thrive under the new regulations. ???????????? ??????????????????????: Expert debate on the long-term effects of these legislative changes on the hemp and broader cannabis markets. ?? ???????? ???????? ??????????????: A prominent figure in cannabis law, Neil's work spans regulatory challenges, policy advocacy, and industry compliance. His insights have informed policymakers and industry leaders alike, making him a pivotal voice in discussions about cannabis legislation. ?? Quick shout out to our sponsor, KitPrint, the cannabis operator’s production design partner.?Use code HIGHSPIRITS when you sign up and get 10% off your first two months. To learn more, go to kitprint.co to book a call with their team. ?? ?????? ???????? ????? This episode is crucial for anyone involved in or interested in the rapidly expanding THC drinks category. Whether you're an entrepreneur, operator, investor, or enthusiast, understanding the intersection of hemp beverages and alcohol regulations will provide a competitive edge and deeper market insights. Don't miss this informative session on High Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast with Ben & AnnaRae, and guest Neil M. Willner, where we'll dissect the evolving regulatory landscape and its impact on the future of hemp beverages. #HighSpirits #CannabisRegulation #HempBeverages #drinkcannabis

Starting this morning's episode a little bit later than usual, but starting real soon! How Will Alcohol Regulations Impact the Future of THC Drinks w/ Neil M. Willner. Make sure to attend it today.

??? Vertical integration can be powerful—but it can also backfire. In early cannabis markets like Ohio, owning the whole stack might feel like a winning move. Secure your shelf space, move flower at a decent price, and ride the wave while prices are high. But… what happens when your retail arm starts propping up a weak wholesale side? ?? The way Gerald Derevyanny of Bengal Capital sees it, you're no longer building a strong business—you’re just masking a fragile one. ?? This clip explores how verticalization often stems from regulatory capture, not consumer focus—and why the future belongs to companies that build around what the consumer actually wants. Listen or watch the full conversation on Episode #80 - The Cannabis Industry is in a Knife Fight /w Gerald Derevyanny On Apple Podcast (apple.co/40e8I2T ) Spotify (spoti.fi/4iUKphY ) and YouTube (https://lnkd.in/g5CMxNAM) #CannabisInvesting #CannabisIndustry #MSOs #CannabisStocks #LongTermValue #CannabisBusiness

?? Some companies are ants. Some are locusts. ?? In cannabis, the difference matters. Ants build—slow, steady, long-term value. Locusts strip what they can and move on. ?? In this clip, Gerald Derevyanny of Bengal Capital breaks down why, based on recent earnings, most of the major MSOs still aren't showing signs of long-term investability—except maybe one. Listen or watch the full conversation on Episode #80 - The Cannabis Industry is in a Knife Fight /w Gerald Derevyanny On Apple Podcast (apple.co/40e8I2T ) Spotify (spoti.fi/4iUKphY ) and YouTube (https://lnkd.in/g5CMxNAM) #CannabisInvesting #CannabisIndustry #MSOs #CannabisStocks #LongTermValue #CannabisBusiness

?? Cannabis policy in Texas is getting messy—and some of the mess is coming from inside the house. Ben Larson and AnnaRae Grabstein unpack how fear-mongering and protectionist tactics from some licensed operators and MSOs are shaping the wrong narrative—hurting the broader cannabis movement in the process. Yes, regulation matters. But shutting down a thriving cannabinoid market without a viable alternative? That’s a recipe for pushing consumers straight into the illicit market—and rewarding the worst actors in the process. ?? “There’s no pee section in the pool.” Watch to understand what’s really at stake—and who’s making waves in all the wrong ways. Listen or watch the full conversation on Episode #80 - The Cannabis Industry is in a Knife Fight /w Jerry Derevyanny On Apple Podcast (apple.co/40e8I2T ) Spotify (spoti.fi/4iUKphY ) and YouTube (https://lnkd.in/g5CMxNAM)

?? Texas has an $8 billion hemp-derived cannabinoid market—and it’s not going quietly. AnnaRae Grabstein and Ben Larson break down the growing tension between consumer demand, limited medical access, and a looming crackdown led by Texas law enforcement. Is this about regulation—or control? And what happens when prohibition tries to erase a thriving market? Listen or watch the full conversation on Episode #80 - The Cannabis Industry is in a Knife Fight /w Gerald Derevyanny On Apple Podcast (apple.co/40e8I2T ) Spotify (spoti.fi/4iUKphY ) and YouTube (https://lnkd.in/g5CMxNAM)

High Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast is hosting The Cannabis Industry is in a Knife Fight-Who Survives? w/Jerry Derevyanny. Make sure to attend it today.

Join Ben and AnnaRae on this episode of High Spirits, where we delve deep into the cutthroat world of cannabis industry investments with Gerald Derevyanny from Bengal Capital. In an industry as volatile as cannabis, understanding the strategic maneuvers of investment firms can be the key to survival and prosperity. ?? ?????????? ???????? ??????????????: In today’s discussion, we explore the evolution of Bengal Capital from a hedge fund to a more hands-on private equity firm that doesn't just invest but actively participates in steering companies towards success. We'll unravel the layers of Bengal’s unique approach to cannabis investing, focusing on smaller, often overlooked entities rather than the larger MSOs, and how this strategy sets them apart in a saturated market. ?? ???????????????????? ????????????????????: ???????????? ??????????????’?? ???????????????????? ??????????????????: ???Transition from passive investments to a proactive role in portfolio companies. ???Insights into Bengal’s operational involvement with companies like Grown Rogue. ??4 ???????????????? ????????????????: ???A deep dive into the latest financial disclosures from major MSOs. ???Analysis of the impacts of financial strategies like the cessation of 280E tax payments. ?????????????????????? ?????? ???????????????? ????????????????: ???Examination of the persistent over-optimism in market projections. ???Discussion on the shift from growth-centric to profitability-focused investor expectations. ????????'?? ???????? ???? ?????? ???????????????? ??????????????????: ???Debating the disruptive potential of hemp-derived THC and its impact on traditional cannabis markets. ???Perspectives on MSOs diversifying into hemp and its beverages. ?????????????? ??????????: ?????????????????? ???? ????????????????’ ????????????: ???The potential for craft cannabis to replicate the craft beer revolution. ???Speculations on the impact of federal legalization and interstate commerce. ??? ?????????? ??????????????: Gerald Derevyanny, Partner at Bengal Capital Jerry brings a wealth of knowledge from his legal background and his deep dive into cannabis investing. His insights are not just theoretical; they are built on real-world experiences and the gritty realities of navigating a tumultuous industry. ??? ?????? ???????? ????? This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in or interested in the cannabis industry. Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or enthusiast, the insights shared by Jerry will provide a clearer picture of where the industry stands today and where it’s headed amidst ongoing regulatory and market challenges. Catch the full discussion on High Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast this Thursday at 1 PM EST on LinkedIn Live. Get ready for a thorough breakdown of the current state and the future potential of the cannabis market from one of the sector’s most astute observers. #HighSpirits #CannabisIndustry #CannabisInvesting #BengalCapital?

?? Success Isn’t About Being First—It’s About Getting It Right In an emerging industry, the real opportunity isn’t in rushing to be first—it’s in recognizing what’s missing and making it better. Taylor Eileen Sewell, Food Scientist, Beverage Queen & Chief Product Officer at Hippie Water took a risk leaving the world of big brands to build something new in cannabis beverages. But that risk only made sense if it was worth it. ???? Instead of chasing the spotlight, the focus is on filling the gaps, refining the category, and elevating the industry—so that more professionals see the potential and join in. What’s your approach to innovation? Is it about being first, or being the one who gets it right? ???? #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #CannabisBeverages #MarketGaps

?? Strong Partnerships Thrive on Open Communication & Positive Assumptions ?? The best teams don’t just work together—they trust each other. Open communication, honest challenges, and assuming the best of your partner create a foundation for success. In this conversation the founders of Hippie Water, Sasha Pieterse Sheaffer and Taylor Eileen Sewell break down how transparency, mutual respect, and a little fun can make all the difference in business. What’s your key to a strong partnership? Drop your thoughts below. #Leadership #Communication #Trust #WomenLedBusiness #hippiewater Listen or watch the full conversation on Episode #079 On Apple Podcast (apple.co/40e8I2T ) Spotify (spoti.fi/4iUKphY ) and YouTube (https://lnkd.in/g5CMxNAM)