On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Rick Bashkoff, CEO of Lit Alerts. They discuss the evolution of the cannabis market in New York, the role of data in empowering cannabis operators, and the challenges faced by social equity applicants. He highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics, product preferences, and the impact of the illicit market on licensed operators. The discussion also covers trends in consumer behavior, the significance of price compression, and the future outlook for the cannabis industry in New York.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Joshua Wilson, the General Manager of Culture House NYC. Josh shares his extensive experience in the cannabis industry, discussing his journey from California to New York. He delves into the evolution of the cannabis market in California, the challenges faced by operators, and the lessons that New York can learn from California's experience. Joshua also highlights the differences in consumer behavior between New York and California, the opportunities present in the New York market, and his hopes for the future of interstate commerce in the cannabis industry.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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In this conversation, Herb Barbot is joined by Marc Shepard to talk about the upcoming NECANN conference in Rochester, NY. They discuss the evolution of NECANN, a cannabis industry convention that has been running since 2014. Mark shares the original motivations for creating NECANN, the shift from a focus on medical marijuana to adult use, and the challenges and opportunities present in the New York market. Marc emphasizes the importance of networking and education at these conventions, as well as the need for local businesses to thrive in the cannabis industry.
Sign up and attend NECANN here - https://necann-events.captello.com/2025-new-york-cannabis-convention-17472468465906
On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Brendan McKee, co-founder and COO of Silver Therapeutics. Brendan discusses the company's journey in the cannabis industry, employee retention strategies, multi-state expansion, and the importance of company culture. Brendan shares insights on the challenges faced during their growth, the evolution of the cannabis market, and his personal aspirations, including community engagement and becoming a firefighter.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Beck Hickey and Erin Thurmond. Beck and Erin share a candid look inside New York’s cannabis licensing battle, focusing on the frustrations and uncertainty surrounding the December Queue. They break down how shifting rules, political decisions, and market analysis have left thousands of equity-focused applicants in limbo, while early license holders consolidate advantages.
The conversation digs into:
It’s a raw and important discussion about survival, advocacy, and the fight to make cannabis reform live up to its intentions.
On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Leah Sera, Associate Dean and Associate Professor at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, to discuss the groundbreaking Graduate Studies in Medical Cannabis program. Leah outlines the program's structure, curriculum, and the diverse backgrounds of its students. Serra addresses the challenges of teaching evidence-based practices in a field with limited traditional research and explains the importance of practical training and capstone projects. The conversation also touches on the career opportunities for graduates, the historical context of cannabis education, and the program's impact on patient care and the professionalization of the cannabis industry.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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In this two-part episode of Joint Session, Herb unpacks one of the most consequential regulatory crises to hit New York’s legal cannabis industry.
Part 1: Legal Insight and Legislative Fallout
Herb Barbot is joined by cannabis attorneys Fatima Afia of Rudick Law and Benjamin Rattner of Cermele & Wood LLP to break down the legal and legislative chaos unleashed by New York State's recent enforcement of proximity rules. These rules—banning dispensaries within 500 feet of the property lines of schools and daycares—have put dozens of licensed operators at risk of losing their businesses. Fatima and Ben explain the legal basis (or lack thereof), where the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) may have overreached, and what a legislative fix could look like in 2026.
Part 2: The Human Cost
In the second half, we hear from two dispensary owners directly impacted by the proximity fallout: Alex Norman, co-founder of Budega in Park Slope, Brooklyn, and Fernando Peña, owner of Late Bloomers in Ridgewood, Queens. They open up about receiving the dreaded letters from OCM, their personal sacrifices to get open, and the financial and emotional toll this latest blow has taken. From dashed dreams to looming debt, their stories put a human face on a regulatory mess that threatens to collapse the very program it was meant to empower.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone tracking New York cannabis policy, small business equity, or how good intentions can go dangerously off track.
Further reading on Cannabis stores and their proximity to schools, as referenced in the news section, can be found at The New York Times. The Journalist is Ashley Southall.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/28/nyregion/weed-shops-schools.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/02/nyregion/weed-cannabis-dispensary-nyc.html
On this episode of Joint Session, Herb is joined by Chef Joshua Tepperberg, known as The Mediblist. Joshua discusses his journey into the cannabis culinary space, emphasizing the medicinal benefits of cannabis in food. He explains the concept of being a Mediblist, the importance of consistent dosing in cannabis-infused dishes, and shares his creative process for developing new recipes. Chef Joshua also addresses misconceptions about cannabis cuisine, offers advice for amateur cooks, and provides insights into the future of cannabis in fine dining. He highlights the role of his events company, Work and Roll, in fostering community within the cannabis industry.
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 Coalition in advocating for responsible cannabis legislation and the future of cannabis retail in the region.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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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 for ongoing support in navigating the complex regulatory landscape across different states. Her insights provide valuable guidance for cannabis licensees and applicants looking to operate successfully in a heavily regulated industry.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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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. He also offers advice to young immigrants and reflects on the future of the cannabis industry in New York.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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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 shares future aspirations for the market and the importance of building customer relationships.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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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 of navigating the New York market. The panelists emphasize the need for education to combat stigma, the significance of authenticity in branding, and the impact of social media regulations on marketing strategies. The panel discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in the cannabis marketing landscape, particularly in New York. They explore the impact of economic changes on their businesses, the importance of community engagement, and emerging trends in cannabis consumption, such as microdosing. The discussion emphasizes the need for creativity in marketing strategies and the vision for a future where cannabis is integrated into everyday life.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
If you enjoy the show, leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners find the show.
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 regenerative farming, the importance of rigorous quality testing, and why storytelling is their most powerful tool for connecting with customers. It’s a conversation about legacy, leadership, and redefining what success looks like in cannabis.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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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 Cannabis Workforce report here.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
If you enjoy the show, leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners find the show.
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 72 million cannabis-interested travelers and a projected $17 billion market, this episode dives into the opportunities and challenges of tapping into this growing tourism segment, and the vital role of education in breaking down stigma.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
If you enjoy the show, leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners find the show.
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 dependency and interactions with other medications. Dr. Williams shares insights on the evolving landscape of cannabis in her practice and offers resources for those interested in learning more about medical cannabis.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
If you enjoy the show, leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners find the show.
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 jobs, the role of social equity, and the potential for cannabis hospitality and tourism in New York.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
If you enjoy the show, leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners find the show.
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 Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
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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, and the heavy tax burdens imposed by IRC 280E. They also dive into the significance of the SAFE Banking Act — introduced a decade ago — and what it could mean for the future of cannabis finance, lending, and services.
Despite progress, cannabis businesses still face major challenges around compliance, cash management, and profitability. Whether you’re a cannabis entrepreneur, banker, or policymaker, this episode offers an inside look at the hurdles and opportunities shaping the future of cannabis banking.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev.
Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.
Follow the show on Instagram at jointsession.pod, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at Joint Session Podcast.
If you enjoy the show, leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners find the show.
