Industry Highlight: Cannabis
Michael Brooks of Good Kush CO.
Michael is one of the most passionate people I know, and despite that stern look on his face, he also ranks up there with the friendliest. His CATBiRD view is an interesting one as intersects with cannabis, retail, politics, and an overall spirit of changing the world. I enjoyed getting his take on the industry and I look forward to seeing what he does next!
Tell me how you fill your days. Think big picture: current business/career, interests, and areas that you're passionate about making a difference in:
Being uniquely positioned, I act as a hub between West and East Coast operators. I take my learned experiences working with established operators and pass them along to clients in newer emerging markets. I take this same approach and use it in politics as we continue to work towards national legalization. I am part cannabis educator and part business ninja, and it's so much fun!
Can you speak to the intersection of cannabis and business? It seems that we're at a huge crossroads here, and I'd love your insight:
I try to explain the cannabis industry as a three-tiered business dogfight. The top tier is the large corporate industries: alcohol, tobacco, pharma, CPG. The next level is the Wall Street and hedge-funded MSOs ( multi-state operators). And finally, we have our small business and small farming operations. As our Government advances legalization, we can see how the influence of each tier plays out. How will it all end up? Who knows? But those who understand their consumer's needs will be the ones best positioned to survive and thrive.
Can you pinpoint a few cultural or political shifts over the last 10-20 years that have gotten us where we are today?
The single event that changed everything was the passing of Colorado's Amendment 64 in 2012. Once lawmakers at a state and local level realized the revenue potential of regulated cannabis taxation, the shift began politically.
I love seeing so many innovators, creators, visionaries, and whip-smart business folks making it big in the cannabis industry. The space seems really crowded though! From your perspective, what does it take to "make it"?
Cannabis is all about your niche market. Know what your are great at and focus on making that one product, skill, or idea successful. Work with other brands that have crossover appeal to your niche. Together, everyone accomplishes more.
Is there anything you wish someone would have told you when you started out in the industry?
Your network and your ability to collaborate and develop with your network will be the key to your success.
Let's rocket forward 10 years from now. Tell us what the cannabis business looks like:
Think DoorDash with autonomous drone delivery.
If you’d like to get in touch with Michael, you can find him here: Check Out Michael’s World
You can also find him on Instagram and Facebook @goodkush.co