Why does it feel like the hemp industry is exploding while regulated cannabis remains stagnant?

The numbers may tell one story, but they don’t capture the whole picture.

What would a combined cannabis and hemp market look like if both operated with fewer restrictions, better access to resources, and increased capital?

This week, we welcome back Ben Burstein to dive into these critical questions and more, including:

• Why the numbers don’t tell the full story.
• The real growth drivers behind cannabis and hemp.
• Predictions for consolidation and expansion.
• The path to a $100 billion market.

Guest Links:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminburstein/
• https://www.leaflink.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/leaflink_/
• https://x.com/LeafLinkUS

Episode Highlights

Cannabis and Hemp Market Overview (00:00:56)

• Total hemp market currently around $10 billion
• Hemp-derived THC market represents about $5 billion in retail sales
• Strong growth trajectory with billions added each year

Market Dynamics and Expansion (00:02:40)

• Hemp-derived products offer:

State Market Insights (00:25:23)

• New York standout market

Future Industry Predictions (00:56:21)

• Expected to add billions in sales
• Improving margins and cost structures
• Potential Schedule 3 rescheduling
• Continued market consolidation

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

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F1 hybrid seeds are the cornerstone of modern agriculture, offering the least expensive and most reliable way to grow uniform plants with predictable traits.

In the cannabis industry, however, growing from clones has long been the standard because true F1 hybrid seeds were unavailable—until now.

Today, F1 hybrid seeds have arrived in cannabis cultivation, delivering the same consumer and agronomic traits that make large-scale production in traditional agriculture so successful.

These seeds are not only transforming the economics of cannabis cultivation but also turning pain points into competitive advantages for forward-thinking growers.

By applying techniques borrowed from big agriculture, the cannabis industry can now achieve massive payoffs through uniform plants with predictable traits, shifting the narrative from inefficiency to profitability.

This week we sit down with Ralph Risch to discuss:

• Seeds vs. clones: key benefits, costs, and trade-offs.
• How F1 hybrid seeds are transforming cannabis cultivation.
• The economic impact of big-ag innovations in cannabis.

Key Topics Discussed

• Ralph's Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:11)
• Background in emerging markets
• Transition into the cannabis industry
• Scientific Approach to Cannabis Breeding (00:02:37)
• First company taking a scientific approach to breeding
• Genomics-driven breeding methodology
• F1 Hybrid Seeds Explained (00:11:52)
• Difference between traditional and F1 hybrid seeds
• Uniformity and predictability in plant genetics
• Genetic Markers and Breeding Innovations (00:28:44)
• Currently using 15 genetic markers
• Potential for expanding to 40 markers in future
• Rare Cannabinoid Research (00:37:07)
• Exploring CBG, CBC, and other minor cannabinoids
• Potential therapeutic applications
• Future of Personalized Cannabis (00:45:53)
• Discussion on personalized medicine and cannabis
• Challenges in creating strain-specific solutions

About Phylos

Phylos is a cannabis genetics company focused on helping growers of all sizes to succeed commercially with seeds that produce the highest quality cannabis in the most cost-effective way. Phylos supports commercial-scale cultivation with the industry’s first Production-Ready Seed™: premium, phenotypically stable, fully-feminized F1 hybrid seeds that deliver exceptional flower quality, potency, vigor, and yield. Phylos also leverages its proprietary technologies and its cultivation, extraction, and formulation expertise to provide partners with unparalleled THCV genetics and natural, safe and effective ingredients.

Guest Links:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphrisch/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/phylosbio/
• https://x.com/phylosbio

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

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Partnerships are more critical in cannabis than in many other industries.

The line between success and failure is razor-thin, and most companies don’t have the resources to recover from a failed “marriage.”

One of the unique and beautiful challenges of the cannabis industry is the emotional connection founders have with their businesses. Much like a parent’s love for a child, founders tend to see only the good, often downplaying potential downsides.

The ability to stay grounded, ask the hard questions, and—most importantly—be culturally and mentally prepared to discuss a “marriage” with another group is daunting.

When conversations about capital or potential acquisitions arise, it’s easy to overvalue a business internally. Founders know the countless hours and effort that went into building it, which can cloud judgment about its true market value.

This week we sit down with Tony Schor to discuss:

• Where partnerships fail.
• Creative ways cannabis companies are securing capital.
• Where people are investing in the cannabis industry.

Episode Highlights

Cannabis Industry Insights (00:01:25)

• Discussion of cannabis industry legacy
• Importance of partnerships in industry growth
• East Coast vs. West Coast cannabis market dynamics

Mergers & Acquisitions Deep Dive (00:02:53)

• Challenges of cannabis M&A transactions
• Importance of cultural fit in partnerships
• Strategies for finding the right manufacturing and brand partnerships

Capital and Technology in Cannabis (00:37:47)

• Technology as the hottest investment area in cannabis
• Challenges of raising capital in the industry
• Cross-industry interest in cannabis opportunities

Cannabis Hall of Fame (00:47:33)

• Tony's role as chairman
• Plans for a 13,000 sq. ft. immersive exhibit at Planet 13 in Las Vegas
• Goal of destigmatizing cannabis through education and recognition

About Tony Schor

Tony Schor is an accomplished leader and President of Chicago-based Strategic Intro / Investor Awareness, Inc. (Founded in 1994). He is currently offering strategic advisory work and Mergers & Acquisitions opportunities representing both Buyers and Sellers of Cannabis assets in several verticals throughout the country in key markets. He is a highly valued resource to his clients.

Tony also represents numerous award-winning cannabis brands, as well as continues to secure partnerships with access to brands, cannabis operational businesses and conditional licenses across the United States in both mature and limited markets. Tony Schor was asked in 2023 to become Chairman of the Cannabis Hall of Fame.

Guest Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-schor-98a4391/

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

Software is unique: when it works as it should, no one thinks twice about it. But the moment there’s a hiccup or delay, it becomes an issue.

Building software that consistently runs seamlessly, while integrating additional features to create an “all-in-one” solution that’s easy to use? That’s nearly impossible.

Kudos to Chris Violas and the Blaze team for achieving just that. Leveraging his AWS background, Chris has created a software environment that boasts an impressive 99.1% customer satisfaction score.

The infrastructure may not be the sexiest part of software, but it’s the foundation everything else is built on. Much like adding a second level to a house, it can either be a smooth process or a massive headache, depending on the strength of the foundation.

This week, we sit down with Chris Violas to discuss:

• What most people don’t know about software in cannabis.
• Infrastructure and the connection to customer success.
• Acquisitions, ecosystems, and the evolution of “all-in-one” solutions.

About Blaze:

A complete cannabis software suite designed to streamline and scale dispensary operations. BLAZE powers every aspect of your retail business with an intuitive point-of-sale, advanced inventory management, built-in loyalty, native e-commerce, and integrated cashless payments. Our goal is to provide a cohesive ecosystem that allows dispensaries to offer an exceptional shopping experience for customers.

when we talk mission critical infrastructure, like our system, like it's not okay just to have a lag. We have someone in front of the point of sale, like literally pushing buttons and wanting to check out. And so there's just no space for issues.

it's nice to have a storefront, but the reality is it is like 80% more efficient on so many levels to fulfill an online order than to have someone walk around with someone in store and hold their hand.

Key Topics Discussed

Chris's Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:35)

• Started in college after breaking his wrist
• Launched a dispensary with his father during senior year
• Transitioned to technology after realizing software could solve operational challenges

Blaze's Technology Infrastructure (00:08:29)

• Focus on mission-critical, stable infrastructure
• Designed with redundancy and performance in mind
• Separating production and reporting databases

Compliance and Innovation Challenges (00:23:22)

• Navigating state-by-state regulatory variations
• Developing solutions like Metric Retail ID for product serialization
• Potential time and cost savings for retailers

Payment and E-commerce Strategies (00:49:51)

• Pushing towards more efficient online ordering
• Improving average order value through e-commerce
• Exploring payment solutions in different markets

Social Impact Initiative (00:42:23)

• Launching Blaze Cares partnership with SickKids Hospital in Canada
• Implementing donation roundup program for retailers

Guest Links:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisviolas/
• https://www.blaze.me/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/goblaze/
• https://x.com/blazecannabis
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1ag_Kpjm6G8IAOaK8iTcIA

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

Kiva's products now reach 80% of the U.S. population.

Think about that for a second.

It’s a testament to how far the cannabis industry has come and the progress being made.

But, as with anything in the cannabis space, there are complexities, caveats, and unique challenges.

For instance, in some markets, consumers can access products directly through D2C channels or dispensaries. While these channels can complement each other and drive brand loyalty, the rise of D2C may also create tension with retailers, who were once the sole point of purchase.

This week, we sit down with Colin Keeler to break it all down and discuss:

• Hemp & Cannabis Strategy
• Minor cannabinoids they are testing
• Innovations & Consumer Preferences

Guest Links

• https://www.kivaconfections.com/
• https://shopkivaconfections.com/
• https://x.com/kivaconfections
• https://www.instagram.com/madebykiva/

Chapters:

1. Introduction and Guest Background (00:00:00) - Bryan Fields introduces Colin Keeler from Kiva, and they discuss Colin's background. Colin shares his journey from investment banking to the cannabis industry, including a brief stint in psychedelic biotech.
2. Kiva's Business Development Strategy (00:02:18) - Colin explains Kiva's approach to expanding into new markets, focusing on their strategy of targeting sizeable markets, working with partners, and being an early mover in different states.
3. Product Innovation and Market Expansion (00:08:14) - The discussion centers on Kiva's product-led approach, highlighting their innovations in edibles like chocolate bars, gummies, and their focus on effects-driven products.
4. Hemp Market Exploration (00:14:31) - Colin discusses Kiva's entry into the hemp market, explaining their cautious approach and how they're navigating the different regulatory landscapes across states.
5. Pricing and Distribution Challenges (00:26:46) - The conversation explores the complexities of pricing in cannabis and hemp markets, including the challenges of maintaining consistent pricing across different states.
6. Innovation and Future Outlook (00:33:09) - Colin talks about Kiva's focus on innovation, particularly around dosage, minor cannabinoids, and creating products that meet consumer wellness needs.
7. Rapid-Fire Questions (00:42:05) - The hosts ask Colin a series of quick, fun questions about his dream smoking session, unique perspectives, and predictions for the edible market.

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

Sometimes, you need to go the extra mile to make a point—like buying every medicine at CVS to show regulators that medicine can, and often does, have flavor.

Sensible regulations should be rooted in logic, not outdated prohibition fears or baseless stigmas.

If cannabis is legalized, it should be treated like any other industry, not one plagued by fear of being a shadowy boogeyman.

This week, we sit down with Wendy Bronfein to dive into:

• Key Differences Between Maryland and Missouri’s Cannabis Markets
• Emerging Marketing Trends and Customer-Focused Strategies
• Innovative Crohn’s Disease Research and Product Development
• ...and so much more.

Chapters:

1. Introduction and Background (00:00:00) - Brian and Kellen introduce their guest Wendy Bronfein, co-founder of Cura Wellness. Wendy shares her background in the television industry and how she transitioned into the cannabis space.
2. Early Days of Maryland Cannabis (00:01:15) - Wendy discusses how her family became involved in the Maryland medical cannabis market, including their trip to Colorado and the process of applying for a license in 2015.
3. Launching Curio Wellness (00:02:47) - The company won a license, built their facility, and became operational in 2017, shipping to licensed dispensaries in December of that year.
4. Transition to Adult Use (00:03:07) - Maryland transitioned from medical to adult-use cannabis in July, with Wendy explaining the regulatory changes and market dynamics.
5. Product Innovation and Research (00:33:59) - Curio Wellness discusses their approach to product development, including specialized products for sleep, mood, and potential medical treatments like a Crohn's disease tablet.
6. Marketing Challenges and Regulations (00:25:16) - Wendy explains the marketing restrictions in Maryland compared to Missouri, highlighting the challenges of advertising in the cannabis industry.
7. Personal Insights and Closing (00:42:33) - The interview concludes with personal questions about Wendy's dream smoking session, her views on branding, and her favorite ice cream.

Guest Links

• https://curiowellness.com/
• https://x.com/curiowellness
• https://www.instagram.com/curiowellnessbrand/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/curio-wellness/
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeT6Sut8Wsi4Xr_o9uq0edQ
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/wbronfein/

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

How many of you know that the post-harvest process is just as critical—or even more so—than cultivation for preserving terpenes and cannabinoids?

While cultivation is often in the spotlight, the post-harvest process is essential to maintaining quality in cannabis. This week on The Dime, we sit down with Jack Grover, co-founder of Grove Bags, to explore how post-harvest techniques can make or break the final product.

Jack explains the importance of managing terpenes, moisture levels, and environmental conditions to keep cannabis potent and aromatic long after harvest. Discover how Terploc technology and thoughtful post-harvest strategies can prevent profit loss, extend shelf life, and elevate product quality in a competitive market.

This week we sit down with Jack Grover to discuss

• TerpLoc® technology
• What you don’t know about Water content
• Post-harvest Terpene strategies

Key Topics Discussed

• Jack's background and entry into the cannabis industry (00:00:11 - 00:01:37)
• The importance of post-harvest curing and optimization (00:01:37 - 00:07:54)
• The science behind terpene profiles and their impact on the consumer experience (00:07:54 - 00:14:23)
• Challenges around cannabis testing and regulation (00:14:23 - 00:16:41)
• The global cannabis market and international trade (00:16:41 - 00:19:32)
• Lessons learned in business and the cannabis industry (00:19:32 - 00:20:54)

Guest Links:

• https://grovebags.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/grovebags/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/grove-bags
• https://x.com/grovebags

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

Clones, tissue culture, gen-zero cloning—cultivation science dictates both the health, effects, and financial return on each cannabis plant. This week, we’re diving deep to understand how these techniques work and why they’re game-changers for the cannabis industry.

We sit down with Kristian Andreassen from Conception Nurseries to explore:

• Gen-zero vs. gen-one
• Impact on genetic resets on yield & quality
• Conception Nurseries' commitment to breeder rights

https://www.linkedin.com/company/conceptionnurseries/

https://conceptionnurseries.com/

https://www.instagram.com/conceptionnurseries

Main Topics Discussed:

• Khristian's background and introduction to the cannabis industry (00:00:11 - 00:01:37)
• What is tissue culture and how does it work? (00:08:50 - 00:10:54)
• The benefits of tissue culture for cultivators (00:10:54 - 00:14:12)
• Conception Nurseries' "Gen Zero" tissue culture process (00:14:12 - 00:17:41)
• Conception's focus on breeder rights and royalties (00:37:19 - 00:39:05)
• Trends and predictions for the future of tissue culture in cannabis (00:49:43 - 00:51:52)

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast

Sign up for our playbook here:

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime