2023 Friday Schedule (10am to 5pm)

Ancillary Business Panel

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Discover the lesser-known players within the industry—businesses that are integral to the field, yet not directly involved in the cannabis plant or its products. An estimated eight to 10 ancillary businesses support every licensed cannabis-related company. They include accountants, landlords, staffing firms, nutrient suppliers, and equipment companies. From selling soil and lights to packaging and software, they offer lessons learned.

Moderator – Cimone Casson – CEO, Cannas Capital
Dyan Ferman – CEO, Genius One, LLC
David Mallie – CEO, Blaze Away
Deontae Mack – Founder, Vibesbnb
Rich Wartel – CEO, Cannova

Women in Cannabis

11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

In a landscape where odds consistently lean against women, numerous organizations are actively fostering opportunities for women to reshape the narrative of the cannabis industry. Here, they will discuss their relationship with the green and why it’s imperative that more women continue to get involved. Female executives’ representation in the cannabis industry is down to 22 percent – lower than 36.8 percent in 2019, according to the MJBiz Daily’s Women and Minorities in the Cannabis Industry report. That’s well below the national average for mainstream businesses, which stands at about 30 percent.

Moderator: Hope Seavers – CEO, A Rae of Hope
Michelle Blank – Sales & Marketing Manager, Appalachian Pharm Processing
Juliana Whitney – Founder, Cann Strategy/Co-Founder Leaf sheets
Nikki Lawley – CEO, Nikki and the Plant
Kate Nelson – Executive VP, New England & Midwest Regions for Acreage Holdings

Growers Corner

12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

At the heart of the entire industry lies the cultivation of cannabis—a cornerstone without which the industry would cease to exist. That’s why careers in cannabis cultivation are vital. It takes an experienced grower to be able to produce a quality flower at an insane volume. The cannabis cultivation process involves several steps, each overseen by cultivation specialists. They manage everything from seed planting to product trimming and shipping. Some of the brightest minds in cannabis will offer information you can use in your plant medicine journey.

Moderator: Christine DeJesus – Director of Cultivation, Galenas
Demetrius Harrington – Cultivation Manager, Ascension Biomedical
Ed Rosenthal – Founder, Ed Rosenthal.com
Pam DeCosta – Founder, Vetae
Nick Risden – Lyme Rising Farms

Cannabis Marketing and Compliance Panel

1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Welcome to the Cannabis Marketing Panel Discussion, where industry experts come together to explore the intricacies of marketing in the cannabis industry. This panel will delve into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by marketers in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Panelists will share insights on branding, advertising regulations, consumer behavior, and digital marketing strategies. They will discuss the importance of building trust and credibility in this highly regulated industry, while also exploring innovative approaches to reach and engage target audiences.

Moderator – Roz McCarthy – CEO at Black Buddha
Jeremy Johnson – Business Development Manager, Dispense
Reggie Harris – CEO, House Of Kush
Mark Nye – Vice President of Operations Compliance, Parallel
Sheri Tarr – Founder & Chief Advisor at 68 Partners, LLC

Investing in the Cannabis Industry – Opportunities and Pitfalls

2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This panel aims to provide valuable insights and guidance to both seasoned investors and those considering entering the cannabis market. These industry experts will explore the current state of the cannabis industry, including market trends, regulatory challenges, and potential investment opportunities. Discover strategies for making informed investment decisions and navigating the unique challenges of this exciting market.

Moderator: Mike Blogna – CEO, Trusted Human Capital
Erik Vaughan- CO-Founder at Epiphany Mushroom Company
Janet E. Jackim – Partner at Zuber Lawler
Geoffrey Korff – Founder CEO/COO at Galenas
Rusty Wilenkin – Co-Founder/CEO at Old Pal

Legislative Panel

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

After advocates in the state mobilized behind a ballot referendum, state lawmakers passed a law to establish a medical cannabis program for Ohioans in 2016. As of August 2023, the program benefits nearly 400,000 registered patients throughout the state, with 780,000 recommendations issued. This panel will discuss what’s on the horizon for the medical and adult use programs both in Ohio as well as on a national basis.

Moderator – Tim Johnson, CEO at Cannabis Safety First
Steph Sherer – Founder & President, Americans For Safe Access
Tom Haren – Partner, Frantz Ward LLP
Karen O’Keefe – Director of State Policies, Marijuana Policy Project
Tremaine Wright – Chairperson at New York State Cannabis Board

College/Universities in Cannabis – Plant Education Going Mainstream

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Join us for this enlightening panel discussion and discover how colleges and universities are shaping the future of cannabis education and preparing students for careers in this emerging field. The panelists will share their insights on curriculum development, industry partnerships, legal considerations, and the evolving job market in the cannabis industry.

Moderator – B.C. Wehman, Business and Cultivation Instructor at Cleveland School of Cannabis
Bonnie Rabin – Instructor, University of Cincinnati
Rob Mejia – Teaching Specialist at Stockton University
John Mackewich – Instructor, Marijuana Law and Policy at the University of Toledo
Dr. Hemant Kumar Bid, Ph. D. Ms. – Program Director at Morehouse School of Medicine/Adjunct Professor at Saint Louis University, Pharmacology of Cannabis

2023 Friday Workshops (Lower Level)

Verde Presents: Federal Cannabis Policy: Where we are, and what’s next?

10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Located in Room 7

Harry and Dave will discuss pending legislation and the most likely cannabis reform outcomes. We’ll also discuss what to expect when federal regulation of cannabis is implemented. Topics will include obtaining a federal license, compliance reporting, tax collection, and enforcement actions.

Speakers:
Harry Bernstein, Verde Executive Director
Dave Patton, Verde Director of Permit Services

Edward Fadel Presents: Expungements: Nuts and Bolts- Room 7

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

Do you have a prior conviction? Wish it was off your record? This discussion will focus on the basics associated with sealing and expunging records. Topics will include what can be expunged, procedural steps to secure an expungement, and why expungements are beneficial.

Speaker: Edward Fadel, Founder, Law Office of Edward Fardel

“Unleashing the Bitcoin Potential: Energy, Humanitarianism, and Store of Value”

12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

Exploring the multifaceted use cases of Bitcoin. The session will shed light on Bitcoin’s transformative role in the realms of energy consumption, humanitarian efforts, and its evolution as a robust store of value. The talk provides an insightful overview of Bitcoin’s underlying technology, blockchain, and its decentralized nature, setting the stage for the exploration of its versatile applications. The seminar will culminate in a captivating Q&A session, affording attendees the opportunity to engage with the speaker openly and discuss any inquiries in an interactive format.

Speaker: Andrew Tilmann – Lab Director, IHS

Package My Bud Presents: Packaging 101

1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

There are so many packaging options available, so how do you decide on the right packaging for your product? This session will walk you through various aspects including packaging terminology, setting a budget, ordering increments: Low Run vs. High Run, Specialty Finishing, Sku Count, Sustainability, Product Fresh/Shelf Life, Child Resistant options, Stock vs Custom, etc. and will focus on various materials; Glass, Plastic, Hemp, Pouches/Bags, Corrugated, Tin/Aluminum, Folding Carton, Labels/Stickers/Shrink Film, Molded Paper Pulp, Rigid Box, Retail Displays, Cushions, etc.

Speaker: Becky Bush – Packaging Consultant, Package My Bud

10 Years of Timeless

2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

Timeless Vapes was founded in 2013 with the vision of creating a leading lifestyle brand around cannabis products that are efficient, safe, and discreet to use. Our passion for R&D and brand building has led Timeless to be one of the most innovative brands in the market. Join us for an hour of education, activities, and more!

Speakers:
Isis Taylor – Kindness Team Manager
Steve Kappel – Ohio Sales Manager

Christine & Nathan Present: Getting Dirty with Cannabis and Hemp Agriculture

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

Choosing the right soil for cannabis isn’t just about the plant’s physical growth. Additionally, the soil’s nutrient availability is a crucial factor that determines the plant’s cannabinoid content. The growing climate directly affects the soil temperature. Areas prone to sweltering temperatures will cause the soil to heat up, which can quite literally fry the root systems or the leaves. This workshop will give you access to accurate and informative lessons from expert growers and soil masters.

Speakers:
Christine DeJesus – Director of Cultivation, Galenas
Nathan Rutz – Director of Soil, RBR/Tilth Soil

Blaze Away Presentation: “Free samples for attendees”

4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Located in Room 7

David Mallie developed the Blaze AwayTM family of odor-elimination products to answer the need for eliminating the most troublesome odors in specialized markets where customer satisfaction is an absolute must. As a result, Blaze AwayTM has been successful in the hospitality, as well as the automotive, assisted living, and commercial real estate markets. Blaze AwayTM incorporates the proprietary XLC mal-odor counteractant chemistry which completely eliminates all types of smoke odors, urine, mildew, food & cooking, body odor, and the general staleness associated with older buildings. Room areas are refreshed for hours and days after treatment.

Speakers:
David Mallie – CEO, Blaze Away

Patient/Community Services:

Expungement Clinic – FREE

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Located in Room 1

Patient Recommendations

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Located in Room 10

Blue Bird Medical
All Patient Recommendations are $75 During OCHBS

2023 Saturday Schedule (10am to 6pm)

Epiphany Mushroom Company

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Don King and Erik Vaughan from Epiphany Mushroom Company will lead a discussion on the fascinating world of fungi – including the critical role of mycelial networks in a forest ecosystem, the current state of the edible and functional mushroom industry, and the rapidly-evolving field of psychedelic-assisted therapies – and how shinrin-yoku and psilocybin mushrooms can help provide relief for our nation’s growing mental health crisis.

Speakers:
Erik Vaughan – Co-founder, Epiphany Mushroom Company
Don King- Director of Mycology, Epiphany Mushroom Company

Patient Panel Discussion

11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

It’s important to hear from experts who specialize in the medicinal properties of a group of plants in the cannabis family, but there’s nothing like hearing from patients. These panelists didn’t just choose to use cannabis as an alternative treatment over some pharmaceutical drugs, they also decided to work in this fast-growing industry. While products and consumption methods differ, the goal is to offer relief from a variety of symptoms and conditions that range from pain and muscle spasms to insomnia, nausea, and anxiety. Some consumers use marijuana for its sedative effects, others consume cannabis to help with focus and energy to get through the day. These panelists have passion for the industry because they have experiences with how the plant has helped them personally.

Moderator – Brain Adams – Director of Education, Harrington Institute
LeeAnn Crawford – Co-Owner, Lakefront Cargo, LLC
Mary Jane Borden – Author, Artist, Activist
Broderick Randle II – Business Development & Outreach Manager, Beneleaves
Andrew Ace Morris – Outside sales representative, Buckeye Relief

Social Equity in Cannabis: Shedding Light on Inequality and Advocating for Fairness

12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

We have a distinguished group of experts who will share their insights and raise awareness about the existing inequalities in the cannabis industry, along with potential strategies to create a more equitable and inclusive space. Let’s introduce our panelists.

Moderator – Shana Melius – Co-Founder, March for Equity
Katree Saunders – VP Government Relations, Pardon Me Please
Erik Smith – CEO, Inclusive Roots
Danielle Drummond – VP Social Equity, Ascend Wellness
Cat Packer – Director of Drug Markets and Legal Regulation at Drug Policy Alliance

Executives in Cannabis

1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

For executives in the cannabis industry, the landscape is constantly evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities. As the industry continues to grow, it is crucial for executives to stay informed about the latest regulatory changes and market trends. Understanding and complying with local, state, and federal regulations is essential to ensure the smooth operation of cannabis businesses. Additionally, executives need to develop robust strategies for product development, branding, and marketing to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Building strong relationships with suppliers, distributors, and retailers is also key to establishing a successful cannabis enterprise. Hear what some of these executives are doing to build their brands.

Moderator – Michelle Simakis – Editor, Cannabis Business Times
Candace Moeller – CEO, Innovative Healing Solutions
Ariane Kirkpatrick – CEO Harvest of OH
Erin Gore – CEO, Garden Society
Fadi Boumitri – CEO, Ascension Biomedical

Keynote Presentation: Transitioning From Medical To Adult-Use Frameworks

2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In this presentation, Andrew DeAngelo will discuss the transition from medical to adult-use frameworks in legal cannabis states. Adult use frameworks present exciting opportunities like opening up the market to a much larger customer base. There are also some challenges including a flood of investment money and larger players entering the market. Andrew will break it all down into easily digested parts so attendees can learn what the future holds for themselves and their businesses. He will discuss the ways in which the Ohio cannabis community can stay united and strong as market forces exert their pull on the community. Case studies from other states as well as a robust Q&A will allow everyone to see the road ahead more clearly.

Keynote Speaker:
Andrew DeAngelo – Founder, DeAngelo Consulting

Cooking with Cannabis

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Cooking with plant medicine can be scary but knowing your way around a weed-friendly kitchen pays dividends on behalf of your wellness. Making food at home can allow you to customize both recipes and desired effects, whether you’re making healthier snacks or decadent sweets. Get some tips on doing it right.

Moderator – Angela Harmon – Director of Sales & Marketing, Franklin Stash House
Kari Jager – Cleveland Innovative Infusions
Chad Fuller – Executive Chef, Klutch Cannabis
Stacy Primack – Elevated
Jeremy Cooper – Chef-CEO, 7 Leaf

Understanding CBD & Hemp

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Panelists will share challenges on various devices, methods of administration, and when to vape, eat an edible, or use tinctures. It will include what to look for when buying medicine. Getting to know plant medicine through terpenes, THC: CBD ratios. What is the difference between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, Sativa, Indica, and hybrid products? CBD for athletes and more. Bring your questions because the panel has answers.

Moderator- Andrew Hamerly – CEO at Allswell Agency
Joshua Gray – Chief Science Officer, Organic Plus Brands
Vanessa Wilhelm – CEO, Kerwell Premium CBD
Joe Brennan – Owner, Columbus Botanical Depot
Joel Fink – Owner, Blue Plant Chocolate

Preparing for Adult Use Opportunities in Ohio / What States Are Next Opportunities – Getting You Ready for 2024 and Beyond

5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

It’s the second inning in the cannabis industry in Ohio and things are in full swing as the State prepares for regulatory realignment and is on the precipice of Adult Use sales. Join Sam Porter, Cat Packer, and John Oberle as they discuss the current state of play in Ohio and other states and what you need to know to prepare for legal, operations, and business opportunities. These changes will create a tremendous opportunity for new licenses, funding and investment, vendor relationships, and other economic opportunities in Ohio. This presentation will also touch on what you need to know as the Federal government is considering changes in rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III and the economic benefits that will come.

Speakers:
Samuel Porter – Partner at Ice Miller
Cat Packer – Director of Drug Markets and Legal Regulation at Drug Policy Alliance
John Oberle – Partner at Ice Miller

2023 Saturday Workshops (Lower Level)

Extraction and Aromatherapy, Science for the Body, and Mind with Lighthouse Sciences

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

The Science of Commercial Medical Cannabis Processing with Alex Sandorf, Lab Director for Lighthouse Sciences. Various forms and methods of extraction are explained, including advantages and disadvantages, evaluation of potential health concerns, and breaking down the myths in the community. Exciting new technologies are beingusednowtoproducethehighestqualityCannabisproductsintheworld. The Science of combining Essential Oils, CBD, THC, and Terpenes: a true entourage effect. Discover which essential oils and terpenes work with your chemistry, body, and mind.

Speaker: Alex Sandorf, Lab Director for Lighthouse Sciences

Normalizing Cannabis: Using Technology to Give Consumers the Experience They Deserve

12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

This session will focus on normalizing the cannabis buying experience with technology-enabled solutions. In most states, the regulations around legal medical and/or recreational cannabis make the consumer experience different than almost any other retail experience. Consumers deserve to be able to pay for free, without needing to get cash beforehand or from an in-store ATM. They also deserve to be rewarded for buying legal cannabis, just like every other industry offers through cashback, credit card offers, etc. Technology-enabled solutions are the answer.

Speaker:
Lucas Gould – Founder/CEO at Spendr

The Potent Promise: The Art and Science of Medical Cannabis Processing

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

Join us for an immersive seminar dedicated to exploring state-of-the-art techniques for extracting and refining cannabinoids and other cannabis-derived nutraceuticals, elevating the quality and potency of medical cannabis products. Throughout the event, attendees will gain in-depth insights into a wide array of extraction and processing methods, including supercritical CO2, hydrocarbon, and ethanol extraction, solventless techniques, and advanced purification processes.

Moreover, this seminar will dive into the crucial role of terpenes and their impact on enhancing the therapeutic properties of medical cannabis formulations.
This engaging discussion is centered around industry best practices, compliance with regulations, and the implementation of rigorous quality control measures to ensure the production of safe and standardized medical cannabis products.

Speaker: Andrew Tilmann – Lab Director, Innovative Healing Solutions

Cryo Curing – A Disruptive Method for Drying and Curing Cannabis in just 11-14 Hours.

4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Located in Room 7

Ed Rosenthal’s award-winning book, The Cannabis Growers Handbook inspired Cryo Cure founders Greg Baughman and Tracee McAfee to perfect the cannabis drying and curing process utilizing freeze drying. They will discuss the differences between traditional freeze drying and other drying methods versus Cryo Curing and its benefits, as well as valuable tips, myth-busting, and useful information. A question-and-answer session will finish out the discussion.

Speakers:
Legendary Author/ The Guru of Ganja – Ed Rosenthal
Cryo Cure Co-Founder – Greg Baughman

Patient/Community Services:

Expungement Clinic – FREE

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Located in Room 1

Patient Recommendations

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Located in Room 10

Blue Bird Medical
All Patient Recommendations are $75 During OCHBS