In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Brian Farmer, former Deputy Director of Compliance, former Deputy Director of Business Incubation Programs at the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Brian shares his insights on the cannabis industry, with a particular focus on his experiences at OCM in New York. He discusses the challenges and opportunities within the cannabis market, emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability, social equity, and the need for effective regulations. Farmer highlights the struggles faced by legacy growers in adapting to new compliance requirements and the balance between environmental sustainability and economic viability. He also compares New York's approach to cannabis regulation with that of other states and stresses the need for a shift toward cooperative business models to support small farmers. The conversation concludes with Farmer's reflections on the future of the industry and his ongoing work in regenerative agriculture.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.

Cultivating Equity - Environmental Sustainability and Compliance