In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Dasheeda Dawson, the former Founding Executive Director of Cannabis NYC, author of the bestselling 'How to Succeed in the Cannabis Industry' and Board Chair of the Cannabis Regulators of Color Coalition. Dasheeda discusses her journey in the cannabis industry, from her role as Cannabis Manager in Portland, Oregon, to founding Cannabis NYC. She highlights her efforts in transforming cannabis policy, focusing on social equity, public education, and establishing a loan fund to support cannabis entrepreneurs. The discussion also compares the cannabis markets in New York and Portland, emphasizing cultural differences and community engagement. Dasheedaa discusses her resignation from her New York City position, the challenges facing cannabis management, and the need for policy reforms. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the December queue issue, the need for better communication and data exchange between state and local authorities, and the metrics for measuring success in cannabis licensing. Dawson also shares her future projects, including the release of her workbook on succeeding 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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jointsession.pod/">jointsession.pod</a>, on BlueSky at @jointsessionpod.bsky.social and on LinkedIn at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/joint-session-podcast/">Joint Session Podcast.</a>  If you enjoy the show, leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners find the show.

A Career in Cannabis - from Portland to NYC