Benecia Williams
The presentation will be provided by a Texas licensed physician who is registered with the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP), along with an attorney who has been serving the cannabis industry since the inception of TCUP and have assisted the market evolve. The discussion will look at the current status of medical marijuana programs on a national level, including the legal status involving conflict of laws issues, Medicare, DEA registration and issues with cannabis in healthcare settings.
Benecia Williams
Presentation Abstract:
About:
I am a double board certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine—I am an attending physician at PMR Fort Worth who specializes in musculoskeletal/sports medicine, interventional spine medicine, fluoroscopic & ultrasound procedures, as well as medical cannabis.
After receiving a BS in Kinesiology from the University of Sacramento, she headed to the University of North Texas Health Science Center for a master’s degree in Medical Science and a doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine. After graduation, she completed an internship at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth and residency at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas (excelling as Chief Resident in both establishments) before returning to John Peter Smith for an ACGME Sports Medicine Fellowship.
Dr. Williams continues to service PMR Fort Worth patients in several sports medicine arenas, offering peripheral joint injections, regenerative medicine, and Botox injections for chronic migraine treatment and spasticity/dystonia management. Her extensive training and experience, including several years as sideline physician for Division I collegiate sports, enables her to approach treatment from various facets using multiple modalities. She is a medical cannabis prescriber and advocate. She sits on the advisory board for Compassionate Cultivation Texas Originals, one of 3 licensed medical cannabis dispensaries in Texas.
Jessica Lowery
This panel will provide the audience with insight from professionals from a wide variety of canna-businesses who used the skills and experience they already had to expand into the cannabis industry. Hear from successful entrepreneurs in various industry roles on how they each got started, how their prior experience helped, challenges faced, and advice for those starting out. The panel will be moderated by cannabis industry lawyer Andrea Steel, and panelists include a medical entrepreneur, retailer, cultivator, and national distributor.
Jessica Lowery
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Jessica is from Brenham, TX, a graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture and minor in Business. She is an expert in her field with 21 years’ experience working in greenhouse growing, propagation, and management in the horticulture space. She has been employed with Creekside Nursery for 15 years, and has been the Production Manager for 3.5 years overseeing operations for 500 acres of landscape plant production. Her knowledge and contacts within the horticulture industry allowed us to easily integrate hemp growing into our production footprint operating our license as Riverside Botanicals.
Kimberly Phipps
This panel will provide the audience with insight from professionals from a wide variety of canna-businesses who used the skills and experience they already had to expand into the cannabis industry. Hear from successful entrepreneurs in various industry roles on how they each got started, how their prior experience helped, challenges faced, and advice for those starting out. The panel will be moderated by cannabis industry lawyer Andrea Steel, and panelists include a medical entrepreneur, retailer, cultivator, and national distributor
Kimberly Phipps
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Houston Hemporium is a locally owned boutique started by Kimberly Phipps-Nichol and her husband Dr. Nguyen “Tom” Griggs in 2019. Kimberly, a licensed commercial interior designer, is a transplant to Houston after having lived in FL, CA & NV. Thrilled to call Houston home, she also owns Blue Water Studio, a design and planning firm, and is partner in RoKi Design, a silk scarf company. Kimberly’s ancestors were US founding fathers, whalers and sailors who grew hemp in New England and also used it for sails and ropes until cultivation was outlawed in the 1930’s.
Lukas Gilkey
This panel will provide the audience with insight from professionals from a wide variety of canna-businesses who used the skills and experience they already had to expand into the cannabis industry. Hear from successful entrepreneurs in various industry roles on how they each got started, how their prior experience helped, challenges faced, and advice for those starting out. The panel will be moderated by cannabis industry lawyer Andrea Steel, and panelists include a medical entrepreneur, retailer, cultivator, and national distributor.
Lukas Gilkey
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Lukas Gilkey is the CEO and co-founder of Hometown Hero CBD. In the Coast Guard, he did counternarcotics work. Now? He sells cannabis—specifically, federally legal hemp-derived THC products. In 2021, his company made the cover of the New York Times. Lukas took on the Texas Legislature and won within that same year, keeping hemp-derived THC legal in the Lone Star State. And his motivation for all of this? It has always been about helping veterans in need. Since its founding, Hometown Hero CBD has been actively donating to veteran charities, and Lukas has his sights set to increase his company’s charitable efforts exponentially.
Andrea Steel
This panel will provide the audience with insight from professionals from a wide variety of canna-businesses who used the skills and experience they already had to expand into the cannabis industry. Hear from successful entrepreneurs in various industry roles on how they each got started, how their prior experience helped, challenges faced, and advice for those starting out. The panel will be moderated by cannabis industry lawyer Andrea Steel, and panelists include a medical entrepreneur, retailer, cultivator, and national distributor.
Andrea Steel
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Andrea is licensed to practice law in both Texas and Oklahoma. She is a member in the Real Estate Practice Group as well as a member of the Hemp Industry Team of Frost Brown Todd LLC, a full service national law firm with more than 550 attorneys across 15+ markets and Washington, D.C. Andrea has deep rooted knowledge and experience with cannabis law, with her business clients spanning the supply chain spectrum from cultivators to retailers, as well as distributors, testing labs and more. She advises on regulatory compliance, hemp/medical marijuana licensing, cannabis-related business issues, product labeling/marketing, policy-making participation and real estate issues. Andrea also frequently advises clients on issues unique to the industry, such as delta-8 and other novel cannabinoids, conducting state-by-state research and providing guidance and analysis on proposed laws to policymakers and others. She currently serves as co-chair of the Legislative Advisement Committee of the International Cannabis Bar Association and as Vice Chair of the American Bar Association’s Cannabis Law and Policy Committee.
Nkem Okeke
This panel will provide the audience with insight from professionals from a wide variety of canna-businesses who used the skills and experience they already had to expand into the cannabis industry. Hear from successful entrepreneurs in various industry roles on how they each got started, how their prior experience helped, challenges faced, and advice for those starting out. The panel will be moderated by cannabis industry lawyer Andrea Steel, and panelists include a medical entrepreneur, retailer, cultivator, and national distributor.
Nkem Okeke
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Nkem is an experienced entrepreneur with a proven track record of creating and selling successful start-ups. As co-founder of Adendox, LLC, MediTaurus LLC and co-creator of Florance™, Nkem works on a broad range of business, operational, fundraising, marketing, product development, transactional, and legal issues, and is passionate about building businesses and creating strategic partnerships world-wide. Nkem previously co-founded/co-owned and then sold her 50% stake in Inkfree, MD™, Houston's premier medical aesthetic laser clinic. Her past experiences in Washington, D.C., includes working as a Senior Business Manager in the Law and Policy Division at Fannie Mae. She also worked as a corporate transactional attorney at the law firm of Verner, Liipfert, Bernard, McPherson and Hand (now DLA Piper). Nkem is admitted in the State Bar of Texas and the District of Columbia Bar and is certified in mediation, negotiation, and project management, and has experience with transactional projects involving various contracts, leases, and joint ventures. Nkem graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science from Georgia State University. She also earned an M.B.A. degree with honors and graduated from Tulane Law School. During her undergraduate studies, she was awarded a full athletic scholarship for the NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Team and elected Captain and Most Valuable Player. While in law school, Nkem was a semi-finalist in an international law Moot Court competition, an editorial assistant to the World Arbitration and Mediation Report and served in the Appellate Advocacy Clinic
Paul Stevenson
Hemp businesses are booming throughout the nation as legalization is expanding on both the federal and state level. Hemp businesses seeking to capitalize on the recent, monumental legal transitions in federal and state laws need to ensure that their brand is protected, which can be accomplished by obtaining a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Easier said than done.
Paul Stevenson
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Paul C. Stevenson’s practice focuses on cannabis, hemp, intellectual property, and business law. Paul works with a range of clients in the hemp industry, including growers, processors, manufacturers, and retailers, on both transactional and litigation matters. He has assisted clients in these industries with securing trademark registrations and in managing international portfolios.
Daniel Medrano
The presentation will be provided by a Texas licensed physician who is registered with the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP), along with an attorney who has been serving the cannabis industry since the inception of TCUP and have assisted the market evolve. The discussion will look at the current status of medical marijuana programs on a national level, including the legal status involving conflict of laws issues, Medicare, DEA registration and issues with cannabis in healthcare settings.
Daniel Medrano
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Richard Cheng is a member of Weaver Johnston Nelson, PLLC (WJN) and regularly represents healthcare providers and cannabis businesses in transactional and regulatory matters. Prior to joining WJN, Richard was an equity partner at an AmLaw 100 global law firm where he launched and chaired the firm’s hemp practice group. Richard teaches cannabis law as an adjunct at UNT School of Law and represents a variety of cannabis businesses and investors, including the Texas Cannabis Industry Association.
Tajana Surlan
One of the most difficult things I’ve heard from farmers and entrepreneurs is marketing, branding and developing relationships wirh governments and big business. To solve this issue, I am going to share my experience on how to go from 0 to 100 in record time. With attention to detail, care about the product and respect for the industry.
Tajana Surlan
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Tajana is an international expert with corporate, finance, non-profit, real estate development, and construction expertise. She served as a leader in her city in role of City Councilmember. Her network of connections gives her clients the benefits of a wide network. Tajana has lived in three countries; Croatia, Germany and the United States. She has traveled across the United States, Europe, North Africa and Japan. She’s familiar with hemp and CBD domestically and internationally.
Chip Schweiger
Companies operating in cannabis, hemp and CBD can face very stringent regulations and requirements. From federal taxation complexities to state seed-to-sale tracking requirements, your passion for the plant can be quickly tempered by incorrect or incomplete accounting. In this crash course, we’ll discuss the 11 basics every cannapreneur should know about accounting for your cannabusiness. Whether you’re new to the industry or a canna-veteran, you’re sure to find this session fun and informative!
Chip Schweiger
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Chip is the Founder and Managing Member of the Schweiger CPA Firm PLLC. Known at The Green Leaf CPA℠, his firm helps cannabis, hemp and CBD businesses stay on the right side of tax, accounting and compliance rules. He's a 28-year veteran of the accounting industry with stints at Big 4, global and large local public accounting firms where his leadership responsibilities have included office management and national industry roles. He is an award-winning author, and a speaker and podcast host.
Matthew Clark
Many farmers and processors are still learning the importance of having a solid plan for drying their hemp crop. In this presentation we will cover hemp drying basics including methods and equipment as well as advanced strategies for harvest and storage to ensure you get the most out of your hemp crop.
Matthew Clark
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Matthew first joined the legal cannabis industry in 2015 in Washington State. With the expansion of hemp production in late 2018 he turned his attention to hemp operations as well. He has managed all aspects of cannabis and hemp production and processing across the supply chain. Matthew has worked with IEC Thermo since 2019 as the Director of Compliance.
Paul Dudley
CEA (Controlled Environmental Agriculture) is a technology-based approach toward production. CEA optimizes resources such as water, energy, space, capital, and labor. Upon planning and design of a facility, choosing an integrated MicroClimate System vastly reduces monthly operating costs utilizing less energy, less maintenance, less labor and reduced initial capital outlay.
This review will identify how to reach maximum operational efficiency along with lowering your initial cap-ex.
Paul Dudley
Presentation Abstract:
About:
Paul graduated from the University of Oklahoma with BS in Information Systems. After graduating, he worked in the Commodity Management & Field Automation groups for Texaco Natural Gas, Commodity Trading group for Texaco NGL. He then started CSInc in Tulsa, OK focusing on engineering and software consulting in high-rate data field collection systems and production data analytics. After 12 years, he sold the company and has been a consultant providing I.P. evaluation, SaaS solutions in the Cloud,
Jokubas Ziburkus
Medical Cannabis In Texas – Where are we now and where are we heading?
Discuss the current state of the medical cannabis industry in Texas in terms of patient access and what is lacking. Also, address potential medical business expansion opportunities that exist in Texas in the near future.
Jokubas Ziburkus
Medical Cannabis In Texas – Where are we now and where are we heading?Presentation Abstract:
Discuss the current state of the medical cannabis industry in Texas in terms of patient access and what is lacking. Also, address potential medical business expansion opportunities that exist in Texas in the near future.About:
Dr. Jokubas Žiburkus is an internationally renowned cannabis expert, tenured University of Houston neuroscience professor, an accomplished executive, scientist, innovator, speaker, and entrepreneur. He is a co-founder and CEO of Adendox, a private company focused on cannabis intellectual property development and branding. Adendox has developed a Texas-centric cannabis brand called Bluebonnet Wellness™ and is also a member of the National Industrial Hemp Council and Standardization Committee.
Sid Miller
Panel: The State of Texas Hemp: How we got there and where we are headed.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, TDA Industrial Hemp Council Member Lisa Pittman, and Texas Hemp Coalition Executive Director Ilissa Nolan will discuss the evolution of the Texas Hemp law through the 2019-2021 Sessions, the relationship between the Texas program and the USDA, and the economic and practical development of the Texas hemp program over the past year, including challenges faced and successes shared, as well as the Commissioner’s expectations for the near and long term future of the industry.
Sid Miller
Panel: The State of Texas Hemp: How we got there and where we are headed.Presentation Abstract:
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, TDA Industrial Hemp Council Member Lisa Pittman, and Texas Hemp Coalition Executive Director Ilissa Nolan will discuss the evolution of the Texas Hemp law through the 2019-2021 Sessions, the relationship between the Texas program and the USDA, and the economic and practical development of the Texas hemp program over the past year, including challenges faced and successes shared, as well as the Commissioner's expectations for the near and long term future of the industry.
About:
Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller
An eighth-generation farmer and rancher, Sid Miller is the 12th Commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). He has devoted his life to promoting Texas agriculture, rural communities and the great state of Texas.
Born in De Leon, in Comanche County, in September 1955, Sid Miller graduated with honors from Tarleton State University in Stephenville with a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Ag Education. A recognized community leader, Miller was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2000. He quickly earned a reputation as a staunch defender of Texas agriculture, constitutional freedoms and individual liberties for all Texans. He was elected statewide as the 12th Texas Agriculture Commissioner in 2014, and re-elected to his second term in office in 2018.
Since taking office as Agriculture Commissioner, Commissioner Miller has brought real, common sense reform to TDA. Within six months in office, he eliminated a two-and-a-half-year backlog in organic certifications. He reshaped field operations to maximize efficiency for Texas taxpayers. This included increasing the number of consumer protection inspections by as much as 183 percent while slashing the miles traveled by TDA inspectors by more than half a million miles a year.
Commissioner Miller also launched Operation Maverick, a consumer protection initiative to round up businesses which failed to register their commercial scales with TDA. Registrations have increased 35 percent, and more than 2,000 previously unregistered businesses are now monitored by TDA to ensure consumers are protected.
A former ag teacher and school board member, Commissioner Miller is committed to fighting childhood obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles for Texas schoolchildren. His creation of Farm Fresh Fridays and other farm-to-school initiatives resulted in a $14 million increase in the amount of Texas products purchased by schools. Commissioner Miller is also passionate about ensuring rural communities have the water and infrastructure they need to thrive. To that end, he created TDA’s Office of Water to ensure all Texans have access to clean water for today and future generations. Additionally, under his guidance, TDA has directed hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding through the Texas Community Development Block Grant program to local communities for infrastructure improvements and repairs.
Commissioner Miller is the state’s leading advocate around the world for Texas agriculture, Texas-grown products and Texas-owned businesses. He oversees TDA’s world-renowned GO TEXAN program — a marketing effort to showcase the best products, companies and communities that call the Lone Star State home. Since taking office, Commissioner Miller’s passion to increase market exposure for Texas agriculture has led him and his staff to mount trade missions to Cuba, Ecuador, Argentina, Israel, China and every continent on the globe, except Antarctica.
Commissioner Miller is a businessman who breeds and trains American Quarter Horses. In his spare time, he is a recognized rodeo cowboy who holds 12 world championship titles. He and his wife, Debra, have been married for over 40 years. They have two sons, two daughters-in-law and five grandchildren. They are active members of the Cowboy Church of Erath County, where Commissioner Miller also serves as an elder.
Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller
An eighth-generation farmer and rancher, Sid Miller is the 12th Commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). He has devoted his life to promoting Texas agriculture, rural communities and the great state of Texas.
Born in De Leon, in Comanche County, in September 1955, Sid Miller graduated with honors from Tarleton State University in Stephenville with a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Ag Education. A recognized community leader, Miller was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2000. He quickly earned a reputation as a staunch defender of Texas agriculture, constitutional freedoms and individual liberties for all Texans. He was elected statewide as the 12th Texas Agriculture Commissioner in 2014, and re-elected to his second term in office in 2018.
Since taking office as Agriculture Commissioner, Commissioner Miller has brought real, common sense reform to TDA. Within six months in office, he eliminated a two-and-a-half-year backlog in organic certifications. He reshaped field operations to maximize efficiency for Texas taxpayers. This included increasing the number of consumer protection inspections by as much as 183 percent while slashing the miles traveled by TDA inspectors by more than half a million miles a year.
Commissioner Miller also launched Operation Maverick, a consumer protection initiative to round up businesses which failed to register their commercial scales with TDA. Registrations have increased 35 percent, and more than 2,000 previously unregistered businesses are now monitored by TDA to ensure consumers are protected.
A former ag teacher and school board member, Commissioner Miller is committed to fighting childhood obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles for Texas schoolchildren. His creation of Farm Fresh Fridays and other farm-to-school initiatives resulted in a $14 million increase in the amount of Texas products purchased by schools. Commissioner Miller is also passionate about ensuring rural communities have the water and infrastructure they need to thrive. To that end, he created TDA’s Office of Water to ensure all Texans have access to clean water for today and future generations. Additionally, under his guidance, TDA has directed hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding through the Texas Community Development Block Grant program to local communities for infrastructure improvements and repairs.
Commissioner Miller is the state’s leading advocate around the world for Texas agriculture, Texas-grown products and Texas-owned businesses. He oversees TDA’s world-renowned GO TEXAN program — a marketing effort to showcase the best products, companies and communities that call the Lone Star State home. Since taking office, Commissioner Miller’s passion to increase market exposure for Texas agriculture has led him and his staff to mount trade missions to Cuba, Ecuador, Argentina, Israel, China and every continent on the globe, except Antarctica.
Commissioner Miller is a businessman who breeds and trains American Quarter Horses. In his spare time, he is a recognized rodeo cowboy who holds 12 world championship titles. He and his wife, Debra, have been married for over 40 years. They have two sons, two daughters-in-law and five grandchildren. They are active members of the Cowboy Church of Erath County, where Commissioner Miller also serves as an elder.
Christopher Eggers
Cannabis Physical Security and Common Pitfalls
Chris explains what is commonly required of Cannabis Businesses applying for a license. He understands deeply local law enforcements role in the Cannabis space, and how to mitigate risk. Chris looks beyond alarms, cameras, and guards and is able to help businesses avoid common pitfalls and avoid unnecessary risk.
Christopher Eggers
Cannabis Physical Security and Common PitfallsPresentation Abstract:
Chris explains what is commonly required of Cannabis Businesses applying for a license. He understands deeply local law enforcements role in the Cannabis space, and how to mitigate risk. Chris looks beyond alarms, cameras, and guards and is able to help businesses avoid common pitfalls and avoid unnecessary risk.About:
Chris Eggers recently left a 12+ year career in Law Enforcement and spent time working undercover in Oakland, California. Chris is an expert in burglary and robbery prevention. What separates Chris from other consultants in his space, is his inside knowledge, gained from admitted offenders who taught Chris what they look for when targeting a person or business. Chris is uniquely qualified to protect your Cannabis business. Chris has spoken at multiple Social Equity Boot Camps around the US,
Shayda Torabi
Business, Markets, & Trends Panel
Sales is one of the driving factors in not only going into business, but staying in business. Whether your passions are in agriculture, cultivation, manufacturing, distributing, products, and or retail– you will need to figure out your go to market strategy and ultimately how to get the sale. In this talk I will share insights I’ve developed from running a leading nationally recognized cannabis brand, as well as tips I’ve learned from interviewing successful cannabis brands and businesses.
Shayda Torabi
Business, Markets, & Trends PanelPresentation Abstract:
What can set your company apart from all the rest? How do you minimize risk and maximize profits? This panel discussion and Q & A session is focused on how to grow a successful business, and discussing the newest market opportunities and emerging trends. Whether its branding, marketing, business strategy, growth, human resources, risk management, funding considerations , or even trends in edibles, this panel can answer those questions form first hand experience. About:
Shayda Torabi is the Co-Founder and CEO of RESTART CBD, Texas' premier cannabis brand. Shayda is also the host of the popular cannabis and marketing podcast To Be Blunt, interviewing leading brands and marketers on their strategies for success. She is passionate about helping build great consumer brands in the cannabis industry and leverages her background in marketing to help navigate the cannabis industry connecting the consumer to high-quality cannabis products and education @theshaydatorabi.
Andrew Cates
Cannabis Lobbying in Texas Panel
The partners at Salient Strategies have decades of experience in business development and public affairs at the federal, state and local level. They represent the new generation of lobbyists in the profession with an eye on disruption and technology to modernize the practice. Salient Strategies works to develop positive relationships with elected officials and staff so that we can find mutually beneficial solutions to complex problems.
Andrew Cates
Cannabis Lobbying in Texas PanelPresentation Abstract:
While Texas may not seem to be moving as fast as other states on legislative reform for marijuana and its derivatives, Texas has made huge strides in recent years. Will the state continue to move forward, or getting dragged back by political disagreement?
This presentation will break down the political environment in Texas in 2020 and how the elections in November could impact the state of Hemp, CBD, and marijuana laws when the legislature reconvenes in January 2021.About:
The partners at Salient Strategies have decades of experience in business development and public affairs at the federal, state and local level. They represent the new generation of lobbyists in the profession with an eye on disruption and technology to modernize the practice. Salient Strategies works to develop positive relationships with elected officials and staff so that we can find mutually beneficial solutions to complex problems.
Dominik Hussl
How To Avoid Bad SEO Providers & Spot Good Ones!
The presentation would cover the subject of hiring a search engine expert to help promote your business and what to look for to avoid falling for SEO companies that offer cheap services that will not move the needle and can actually harm your web presence.
Dominik Hussl
How To Avoid Bad SEO Providers & Spot Good Ones!Presentation Abstract:
The presentation would cover the subject of hiring a search engine expert to help promote your business and what to look for to avoid falling for SEO companies that offer cheap services that will not move the needle and can actually harm your web presence.About:
My name is Dominik Hussl and I have been a Search Engine Optimization Expert for 22 years. My experience in SEO has included getting organic rankings and visibility for clients in various industries some of which include, personal injury attorneys, realtors, commercial lighting, warehouse equipment, jewelry, watches, energy companies, Cigar Shops / CBD / smoke shops, storage facilities, auto repair, IT companies and more. I have worked with companies from small startups to Fortune 500’s.
Richard Cheng
Healthcare Provider Legal Concerns and Evolution of Medical Marijuana Programs
The presentation will be provided by a Texas licensed physician who is registered with the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP), along with an attorney who has been serving the cannabis industry since the inception of TCUP and have assisted the market evolve. The discussion will look at the current status of medical marijuana programs on a national level, including the legal status involving conflict of laws issues, Medicare, DEA registration and issues with cannabis in healthcare settings.
Richard Cheng
Healthcare Provider Legal Concerns and Evolution of Medical Marijuana ProgramsPresentation Abstract:
The presentation will be provided by a Texas licensed physician who is registered with the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP), along with an attorney who has been serving the cannabis industry since the inception of TCUP and have assisted the market evolve. The discussion will look at the current status of medical marijuana programs on a national level, including the legal status involving conflict of laws issues, Medicare, DEA registration and issues with cannabis in healthcare settings.About:
Richard Cheng is a member of Weaver Johnston Nelson, PLLC (WJN) and regularly represents healthcare providers and cannabis businesses in transactional and regulatory matters. Prior to joining WJN, Richard was an equity partner at an AmLaw 100 global law firm where he launched and chaired the firm’s hemp practice group. Richard teaches cannabis law as an adjunct at UNT School of Law and represents a variety of cannabis businesses and investors, including the Texas Cannabis Industry Association.
James Johnson
Hemp 101
If you’re new to the cannabis space, there are some fundamentals you should understand prior to getting involved. During this session we will cover certain Federal Regulations in regard to cannabis in addition to the different types of products extracted from the plant and how they’re used for both medical and industrial purposes. We will also cover testing and how it ties into setting prices for your products along with some lessons learned. Lastly, we will cover some reputable companies you may consider contacting.
James Johnson
Hemp 101Presentation Abstract:
If you’re new to the cannabis space, there are some fundamentals you should understand prior to getting involved. During this session we will cover certain Federal Regulations in regard to cannabis in addition to the different types of products extracted from the plant and how they’re used for both medical and industrial purposes. We will also cover testing and how it ties into setting prices for your products along with some lessons learned. Lastly, we will cover some reputable companies you may consider contacting.
About:
Reena Kaven
Dosing + Microdosing CBD: How much is Right for You?
When asked what dose of CBD you should take, many CBD products and purveyors will give you a one size fits all answer. This does our industry a disservice. Finding the desired dose can take time and, despite what we are often told, is very personal and depends on several factors, requiring us to ask many questions for optimal efficacy. For what reason/ailment are you taking CBD? Is the amount you’re taking actually having the opposite desired effect? What is happening in your body at the time you take CBD that can also affect the bioavailability of a product? Did you know that how your CBD is extracted and the formulation of each product can enhance, or even abate, the efficacy of your dose. Are there added herbs, adaptogens, other cannabinoids in your product – and what is the terpene profile?
And, importantly, how can you “dose” and/or “microdose” to make your CBD most effective for you? And what do we need to know about dosing other cannabinoids (CBN, CBG, and D8)?
Reena Kaven
Dosing + Microdosing CBD: How much is Right for You?Presentation Abstract:
When asked what dose of CBD you should take, many CBD products and purveyors will give you a one size fits all answer. This does our industry a disservice. Finding the desired dose can take time and, despite what we are often told, is very personal and depends on several factors, requiring us to ask many questions for optimal efficacy. For what reason/ailment are you taking CBD? Is the amount you’re taking actually having the opposite desired effect? What is happening in your body at the time you take CBD that can also affect the bioavailability of a product? Did you know that how your CBD is extracted and the formulation of each product can enhance, or even abate, the efficacy of your dose. Are there added herbs, adaptogens, other cannabinoids in your product – and what is the terpene profile?
And, importantly, how can you “dose” and/or “microdose” to make your CBD most effective for you? And what do we need to know about dosing other cannabinoids (CBN, CBG, and D8)?About:
Reena is a former litigation attorney who returned to the wellness-centered roots of her upbringing. She became a Nationally Certified Massage & Lymphatic Therapist, launched an integrative wellness studio startup in 2015. After years researching, carrying CBD products in her studio, and using them herself for anxiety, stress and pain management, Reena realized she wanted to dedicate herself to health education and to the offering of high-quality CBD and other cannabinoid products. She was recently featured as one of the top Indigenous Women in Cannabis. Reena has a B.A. in Comparative American Ethnic Studies from the University of Washington and a law degree from Columbia University School of Law. She also holds a certification in CBD coaching and a plethora of certificates in bodywork therapies. Reena speaks around the country on CBD and Cannabis.
Ilisa Nolan
The State of Texas Hemp: How we got there and where we are headed.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, TDA Industrial Hemp Council Member Lisa Pittman, and Texas Hemp Coalition Executive Director Ilissa Nolan will discuss the evolution of the Texas Hemp law through the 2019-2021 Sessions, the relationship between the Texas program and the USDA, and the economic and practical development of the Texas hemp program over the past year, including challenges faced and successes shared, as well as the Commissioner’s expectations for the near and long term future of the industry.
Ilisa Nolan
The State of Texas Hemp: How we got there and where we are headed.Presentation Abstract:
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, TDA Industrial Hemp Council Member Lisa Pittman, and Texas Hemp Coalition Executive Director Ilissa Nolan will discuss the evolution of the Texas Hemp law through the 2019-2021 Sessions, the relationship between the Texas program and the USDA, and the economic and practical development of the Texas hemp program over the past year, including challenges faced and successes shared, as well as the Commissioner's expectations for the near and long term future of the industry.
About:
Ilissa Nolan serves as the Executive Director for the Texas Hemp Coalition that is founded to serve as the premier non-profit representing the industry in Texas. Ms. Nolan was one of the few lobbyist that worked to pass HB 1325 which made it legal to grow and process hemp in Texas. She also serves as a government affairs consultant for Booth & Associates P.C. where she works to build policy through stakeholder collaboration and educating clients on cutting edge issues surrounding state and federal environmental matters, especially topics involving agriculture, rural affairs and environmental issues.
Most recently she served as the Government Relations Director for the Texas Department of Agriculture. She received a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Leadership and Development with a minor in Horticulture from Texas A&M University. As well, she received a Master of Science in Agricultural Communications from Texas Tech University. Ms. Nolan has worked as a Congressional Intern for the House Agriculture Committee under Chairman Frank Lucas and was honored to serve as the Reading Clerk for the Texas House of Representatives of the 83rd Legislative Session. She worked as the Executive Assistant for Natural Resources Solutions, L.C. a consulting firm specialized in regulatory and non-regulatory natural resource and environmental issues. Also, she served as the Legislative Director for Representative Charles “Doc” Anderson, Vice Chairman of the Agriculture and Livestock Committee. She is a member of the Texan by Nature Next Generation Advisory Council, Junior League of Austin and Women’s Symphony League of Austin.
Lisa Pittman
The State of Texas Hemp: How we got there and where we are headed.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, TDA Industrial Hemp Council Member Lisa Pittman, and Texas Hemp Coalition Executive Director Ilissa Nolan will discuss the evolution of the Texas Hemp law through the 2019-2021 Sessions, the relationship between the Texas program and the USDA, and the economic and practical development of the Texas hemp program over the past year, including challenges faced and successes shared, as well as the Commissioner’s expectations for the near and long term future of the industry.
Lisa Pittman
The State of Texas Hemp: How we got there and where we are headed.Presentation Abstract:
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, TDA Industrial Hemp Council Member Lisa Pittman, and Texas Hemp Coalition Executive Director Ilissa Nolan will discuss the evolution of the Texas Hemp law through the 2019-2021 Sessions, the relationship between the Texas program and the USDA, and the economic and practical development of the Texas hemp program over the past year, including challenges faced and successes shared, as well as the Commissioner's expectations for the near and long term future of the industry.
About:
Lisa L. Pittman, Esq. is a Nonresident Fellow at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, Drug Policy Program, is appointed to the Texas Department of Agriculture Industrial Hemp Advisory Council, and is Chair-elect of the American Bar Association’s Cannabis Law & Policy Committee. She advocates for the improvement of marijuana and hemp laws in Texas and federally. In 2020, Lisa was awarded the Texas Lawyer Trailblazer Award and the National Law Journal Trailblazer Award for cannabis law. Her work in the Texas legalization movement earned her the moniker, “The First Lady of Texas Cannabis Law.”
Lisa is a twenty-year commercial litigation attorney who has focused on cannabis for the past six, including 2 years spent in Colorado to learn the industry and obtain her Colorado Bar License. She counsels clients from investors and ancillary service providers to farmers, processors, manufacturers, laboratories, distributors, and retailers in all manners of legal and business decisions. Lisa works across the country and internationally, and she understands the challenges, including tax, banking, financing, insurance, and regulatory compliance issues. Using her network, she navigates these obstacles and facilitate solutions. Lisa is also a certified mediator and arbitrator, and frequently lectures and publishes about cannabis law.
Asa Waldstein
What Can Marketers Learn From FDA/FTC Enforcement Trends
In this session, we review recent enforcement trends and discuss ways companies operating in the hemp-CBD marketplace can limit their risk, while still be truthful and not misleading. This includes identifying high-risk verbiage and providing examples of lower-risk ways to get the same message across. This discussion reviews the dos and don’ts of digital marketing such as best practices for blog posts.
Asa Waldstein
What Can Marketers Learn From FDA/FTC Enforcement TrendsPresentation Abstract:
In this session, we review recent enforcement trends and discuss ways companies operating in the hemp-CBD marketplace can limit their risk, while still be truthful and not misleading. This includes identifying high-risk verbiage and providing examples of lower-risk ways to get the same message across. This discussion reviews the dos and don'ts of digital marketing such as best practices for blog posts.About:
Asa is principal of the regulatory consulting company Supplement Advisory Group, specializing in finding online risk and providing lower risk solutions. He is the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) Cannabis Committee Chair. Asa is a Certified Clinical Herbalist (CCH) with 20 years of experience implementing compliant marketing processes in the dietary supplement and hemp industries. Asa's Regulatory Education Series platform host helpful videos, blogs, and free informational events.
Lee Vernon
CBD/Hemp Business Start Up: 5 key components to building a successful business foundation
They say, “If you build it, they will come”. That is further from the truth, especially in the CBD and cannabis business. 80% of all new businesses are OUT of business within 2-5 years due to that mindset. Having owned 13 startup companies, there are 5 key essential rules to starting up or building a business that have helped me go from an initial concept to seven figures in revenue with multiple companies. I will share the 5 main components to building a solid business foundation in the CBD and cannabis market that will put you ahead of the competition and significantly increase your odds of having a successful and profitable cannabis business. These are lessons that have been learned the hard way in the new evolving cannabis market that will save you time, frustration, and money when it comes to owning or starting a business in this incredible market. If you are thinking about getting into the CBD or cannabis business or if you’re looking to grow your current business, this workshop is not to be missed!
Lee Vernon
CBD/Hemp Business Start Up: 5 key components to building a successful business foundationPresentation Abstract:
They say, "If you build it, they will come". That is further from the truth, especially in the CBD and cannabis business. 80% of all new businesses are OUT of business within 2-5 years due to that mindset. Having owned 13 startup companies, there are 5 key essential rules to starting up or building a business that have helped me go from an initial concept to seven figures in revenue with multiple companies. I will share the 5 main components to building a solid business foundation in the CBD and cannabis market that will put you ahead of the competition and significantly increase your odds of having a successful and profitable cannabis business. These are lessons that have been learned the hard way in the new evolving cannabis market that will save you time, frustration, and money when it comes to owning or starting a business in this incredible market. If you are thinking about getting into the CBD or cannabis business or if you're looking to grow your current business, this workshop is not to be missed!About:
Lee Vernon believes a holistic journey is a better option to bring relief to those who struggle with various physical and mental issues. As a first responder with over 27 years of experience, Lee Vernon established First Responder Fuel in 2019 to develop hemp-infused products that are higher in quality and purity, making it our mission to treat our customers like family, with compassion, integrity, and honesty. Lee also does speaking engagements for various fortune 500 companies and conferences.
Leah Lakstins
Hemp Retail Operations
Find out what consumers really want! And learn the key foundations for success in hemp retail. We will discuss unique customer retention strategies and the key reports that you MUST run regularly. In this presentation, we will also share our latest consumer feedback surveys from hemp tours in Texas.
Leah Lakstins
Hemp Retail OperationsPresentation Abstract:
Find out what consumers really want! And learn the key foundations for success in hemp retail. We will discuss unique customer retention strategies and the key reports that you MUST run regularly. In this presentation, we will also share our latest consumer feedback surveys from hemp tours in Texas.About:
Leah Lakstins is the founder of Higher Ed Hemp Tours and on a mission to connect educated consumers with verified hemp brands and retailers . She is also an UNLV Certified Cannabis Professional with more than 15 years experience helping entrepreneurs and startup brands grow into multi-million dollar corporations. As a native Kentuckian, she is passionate about cannabis education, specifically the impact of hemp on local communities.
Courtney Lewallen
6 Common pitfalls guaranteed to compromise your product label
In this session we’ll cover the six most common product label mistakes companies make that cost them money and time, and how to avoid them. Participants will leave understanding which mistakes they might be making right now, a checklist of the essentials they should consider when designing their labels, and how to work with their print vendor to ensure they receive the highest quality labels.
Courtney Lewallen
