Women Who CANnabis 2022 Expo Edition

Atlanta Cannabis Chef Inks Deal With XOD Network Bringing Greater Visibility To Black Owned Brands

July 28, 2022 Atlanta, GA–Cannabis Chef Swan Simpson is excited to announce that XOD, an Atlanta Based Streaming Network, will distribute her content.

Atlanta based Cannabis Chef, Swan Simpson, has signed on to create cannabis related content for Xperience On Demand Network (XOD). The deal was struck in conjunction with Comedienne Hope Flood and the Hope Flood Experience.

“I was so excited to meet with Hope and executives from XOD to talk about my vision to produce content that puts people of color in cannabis on the global map, The legal cannabis industry has not been that great for people of color in America. This opportunity gives us a platform to bring awareness to Black owned brands and influences. We can now utilize streaming media to help recirculate potential wealth in a very real way,” says Chef Swan.

Swan Simpson will be the first woman of color cannabis Chef, and the only cannabis Chef from the South to have major distribution for her content. This is an important milestone to note since 90% of executives in the legal cannabis industry are white. Only 4.3% of owners in the industry are Black. And according to top food and dining site, eater.com owned by Vox Media, Black Chefs in the industry are an even greater scarcity.

With a vision to be the Tyler Perry of cannabis entertainment, Simpson’s company, Plant Trap Productions, has a mixture of cooking shows, food related entertainment, events shot on location, and independently produced non-scripted series all in the works. XOD Network streams into more than 2 billion homes and devices across the globe.

SS Media Group, Inc is a premier boutique agency specializing in media influencers and stories about Black Founders of CBD and Cannabis Brands.

www.SwanSimpsonMediaGroup.com

Media Contact: Swan Simpson Media Group 702-370-4342

A Message

From Our Chairperson Never Would Have Made It Without You!

Women Who CAN was started to disrupt the status quo and to turn conversations of inclusion into action. Our membership has grown dramatically over the past year from hundreds to thousands. With members being represented all over the world. From Canada to the Caribbean to Brazil and Ghana, our membership has expanded for one reason and one reason alone. That reason is you.

We are an organization that is about the people’s business. WWC understands that inclusion is more than meetings and slogans. It is work. But we cannot work without direction. We cannot have a direction without an understanding. And we cannot gain an understanding without looking at the reality. The reality is we are not winning. I won’t say we are losing because the race is not over. But we are not winning because it’s a game that is being played on defense versus offense.

The deck is stacked against those who are not in the majority population. The deck is also stack against those born without a penis. This is not to separate us in anyway. It should bring us together to take decisive action collectively. Women Who Can is a lobby that works to include women of color in the money. So, let’s be clear what we are here to do. We don’t need to be invited to anymore meetings, we want to be included in the money! Say that louder for the ones in the back!

It’s good that there are other wonderful organizations that advocate for patients and subgroups within the scope of legalization. But we represent the Business Owners who are the end distributors responsible for getting that access to the people and patients who are still waiting for access all over this country.

WWC envisions bringing 5000 women or more into active ownership by 2025. Active ownership meaning making money. We also envision adding some color to the C-Suite of mid-market and publicly traded cannabis organizations by increasing women of color executives from virtually being non-existent at less than 1% to 27% by the same time period. We cannot do this without a little pressure on the status quo.

It starts with our emphasis on business & financial education. And a focus that moves our membership out of the “fight” for legalization. Legalization means nothing if we don’t own any significant part of the game. Legalization helps other communities to grow in power and prosper not communities of color. It’s the Law of Diminishing Returns. We are always on the front lines of legalization. We are always in the backrooms cutting social equity deals. We are always getting pictures taken with politicians. We are always shaking hands and kissing babies and big shit talking…but the numbers don’t lie. People lie, the media lies, the numbers don’t lie. The numbers tell the real story.

According to MJ Biz, roughly 4.3% of legal cannabis businesses are owned by people of color. People of color is a lot of people with color pigmentation. The number is much smaller for ADOS (African Descendants of Slaves) who have been uniquely systematically arrested and mass incarcerated largely on marijuana charges especially under The Clinton/ Biden Crime Bill of 1994. But that is the reality of the news. But the new reality is the paradigm shift that must happen to get us off this insidious green rush plantation.

There was a farmer who had a dog and Crypto was his name oh…C-R-Y-P-T-O! Women Who Can believes in blockchain technology. The blockchain is the freedom train, the underground railroad, reparations, and ticket to the American dream so many have longed for; and

we may just miss it being drunk in love with the small gains that are being constitutionally challenged all over this country.

What you may not be aware of is that “Social Equity” presents a constitutional crisis. Everywhere it has been challenged, it has been struck down as unconstitutional. Sorry, these are big facts folks! It is our position that social equity was a set up to destroy communities of color very much like the crime bill. The loopholes were left loose as to be a noose that you ultimately would be hanging yourself. In short, all it means is your hard work could be unraveled over time. Lots of emotional high fives. But no real change and no true progress. This means no ownership at the end of the rainbow.

When you join or support Women Who CAN, you are choosing to join and connect to solutions. Forward thinking and innovative solutions. Grown folks solutions that don’t require permission from the man! When you join Women Who CAN you are agreeing to disrupt the status quo by turning inward to solve the challenges communities of color face. You are the only way we can do this. You are the answer and the solution all rolled into one.

How can you help? Join us and let us help you build a legacy with classes, courses, networks, and resources that can help you properly start, build, market, execute, and grow! Not able to join? Then support us by choosing to make a tax-deductible donation of your choice at the expo; and know that you are planting a seed in good ground, fertile ground that allows us to make a mark than cannot be erased.

Connect with a member of our team at the expo and get your lifetime membership or make your one-time donation while it is fresh in your mind. You see the evidence of our work. Help us continue moving this freedom train forward.

Namaste,

Swan Simpson

Chairperson/Business Coach/Cannabis Chef

Coach Swan Simpson

Women Who CAN Founder & Chairperson,

Interviews Gena Jones

Corporate Sponsor, Canna Boss CFO

This was a one of my most anticipated interviews because after reading Gena’s bio, I saw that this sistah was a triple threat! Smart, highly educated, dripping with confidence! I want our readers to get the real feel of the conversation, so we kept things as 100 as possible.

Coach Swan: All right, we’re already recording... I recorded this entire meeting just in case there are things that I need to remind myself so everything’s already been recorded. I hope that’s okay with you.

Gena: Yep.

Coach Swan: Okay, how are you feeling?

Gena: Feeling good, I’m feeling a little hungry. I didn’t know that I was going to be this long. My stomach is like [laughter] but I’m good.

Coach Swan: I want to know about Gena, the person before we even talk about Gena, the businesswoman. Who is Gena? I mean, where are you from? Where’d you grow up?

Gena: So, I am a girl from the Southside of Chicago. I am all about my family. I have 6 children. I have been married for 24 years. My awesome husband makes it all possible for me to do this. He’s dealing with a lot of the kids and I just enjoy life, I’m just grateful. You know, the truth is I’m living my dream. I’m doing all the things that I want to do. And, you know, the Bible says that your gift will make room for you. And it absolutely has. The things that I enjoy doing are things that I get paid to do. I feel like I’m chilling every day. And people are like, you’re talking to the IRS? Do I have to be there? Can I go in another room? Oh, my God! We’re just talking, It’s a conversation. So, it’s nothing. But the help that I’m able to

provide people is transformative for them. And that is totally huge for me to be instrumental in improving the lives of others.

Coach Swan: Absolutely.

Gena: That’s me. I also like to eat.

Coach Swan: You like to eat?

Gena: I like to cook.

Coach Swan: Now you know cooking is right up my alley!

Gena: And I love to travel. So, if there’s food involved, you know, I’m there.

Coach Swan: I’m also a Chef. I love hearing about people and food.

Gena: I am a Chef too. Did you go to culinary school?

Coach Swan: No, I didn’t go to culinary school. I got my training in the kitchen. My great-grandmother and my grandmother were amazing in the kitchen. My family is from Mississippi, so every woman knew how to burn lol except my mom. But I’m self-taught 30 years as a vegan chef.

Gena: Oh okay, that’s awesome. But yes, so I was a chef. And then I went to culinary school, because you know, if your grandmother didn’t teach you how to cook, it’s kind of rough.

Coach Swan: Well, my grandmother taught me how to cook.

Gena: Exactly. So, you know. Going to culinary school refines the skills that your grandmother already gave you. That’s really what it’s about. I love to eat. I love to cook. It’s all about food and travel for me. Like that’s everything. Oh, and cocktails. Cocktails and a Martini.

Coach Swan: So how do you go from culinary school to law school? Tell me where the transition happened for you.

Gena: It wasn’t in that order. I was already a CPA and attorney when I went to culinary school. That’s just what I wanted to do. I just like to entertain. I like to cook and I love to eat. I was like, let me just go to culinary school. I went before work every day and after work every day. And you know, hey, I got two degrees. A degree in culinary arts and a degree in patisserie art.

Coach Swan: Wow. This is interesting already. Gena, people tend to think when they have to talk to an attorney it’s a necessary evil. I only want to talk to lawyers when I need them. What made you decide to become an attorney in general?

Gena: The honest truth is I’ve never wanted to be an attorney. That was totally something that I did not like, in fact, I hated it, the thought of it. And I even remember saying out loud, I do not want to be a lawyer. But things happen. After I graduated from college, I didn’t really have a plan. I was just chilling. I had a job. I worked for an attorney CPA, in his office. I was just feeling relaxed, and I was still living at home, so I didn’t have no bills. I was just like, whatever.

But I went to a technical college, Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. I started out as a chemical engineering major, I failed physics and woke up real quick, like, okay, it does not work, so then I switched over to the Business School. And from there when I graduated, I felt like I wanted to have a black experience, like at an HBCU. Then I decided to go to graduate school. But what happened was out of nowhere totally unsolicited. I was just minding my own business.

Howard University sent me a letter saying why don’t you come to our law school? We’ll pay your tuition. We’ll give you a full ride. I was like, Okay! I’m not really doing anything. I’m available. So, I went down there, I chose my apartment. I came back home, and so it was getting close, and I hadn’t really heard anything about the scholarship. So I was like, Okay, let me just call to make sure everything’s cool. They told me they lost my scholarship money, but just come down and we’ll find it. But anyway, long story short, I was already in law school mode from this experience. I ended up applying at the last minute to Kent Law School in Chicago. That’s how I got my law degree there. It was totally crazy. And I was like, why? Why am I a lawyer? Like, I never wanted to be this. But you know, when there’s a plan, there’s not much you can do about it.

Coach Swan: That’s true. Did you also become a CPA? And then decide to do this work? Or did you decide to do the work you’re doing now with your business and then you became a CPA?

Gena: So, I had already been doing this work. Even when I was in college, because my father was an entertainer, and he had tax problems. And he had a representation by an attorney CPA.

And so I began to work in the attorney CPA, his name is Edward A. Williams. And he was a black attorney, CPA, one of the first. I began working in his office when I was in college. And he’s the one who helped my father to stay out of jail for tax evasion. I was already doing the work even before I was a CPA, and even before I was an attorney, but the fact of the matter is that seeing my father go through that trauma, and really our family go through that trauma, is why I was doing the work in the first place. The degrees just kind of fell into place to advance my ability to work at a higher level for people.

Coach Swan: Got you! Perfect. So, what made a girl from the south side of Chicago, culinary specialist and foodie, now an attorney, a CPA, what made you decide to get involved in cannabis in any kind of way?

Gena: Well, so my firm Jones Tax Group, we grow through acquisition. We acquired a firm in 2018, that had cannabis clients. That was my introduction to servicing cannabis clients. And one of the things that I loved about cannabis clients is that just like entertainers, musicians, and creatives, they just trying to do what they love, they just trying to do their thing. And it’s so many other things, that’s just not their passion. I have to help people, because this is my lane. If I help them, they can do what they love, I can do what I love, they can stay out of jail, not overpay tax, and be able to operate their business in a comfortable way. it was just kind of the perfect combination.

Coach Swan: Tell us who is your perfect client, ideal client? And what do you do for them?

Gena: I don’t know if I have a perfect client, but several of the clients that I inherited in cannabis, were clients who had business structures with multiple entities, all servicing cannabis companies as investors or in some ancillary capacity. And what I did for them was run the gamut. Anything from bookkeeping to accounting, tax planning, CFO services, IRS representation, tax return preparation, all of those things. I would say from the bottom would be bookkeeping. And then from the top would be tax planning and IRS representation. All the other things are just kind of in between. And it just depends on the level of service or the level of support they need. And if the IRS has called them about that audit yet…

Coach Swan: A lot of people start their businesses, they don’t think about accounting, right? That’s the last thing they think about.

Gena: Well, let me say that accounting is crucial for all businesses. And a lot of times when people start out they got their cousin doing the bookkeeping, because she took accounting in high school. But at some point, you should graduate to a situation where you recognize that your circumstances have changed, your revenue has changed, your whole business model and structure has changed. But a lot of times there’s growth in businesses, but people are still treating it as if it’s a startup and it’s a multimilliondollar company, like your cousin should not be doing your bookkeeping at this point. Something in your mind should say, “Hey, I should probably hire somebody who does this every day who actually knows what they’re doing?” I’ve seen a lot of people miss opportunities, because they have not had an accountant in

place. And they did not have their financials. They did not have their tax returns prepared. And it’s just sad to see. So, as far as accounting goes for cannabis businesses, not having an accountant is a wreck. Like, you’re just waiting for a problem. I mean, you already have the banking issues, you know that you have the audit coming... It’s not okay at this point for you to have those receipts in your pocket. Ink dissipates and disappears, like over a certain amount of time. That could be the difference between you getting shut down, either by regulators or the IRS because you can’t prove up your inventory, and where everything went, and actually being able to continue to operate your business. Good accounting is huge in the cannabis space.

Coach Swan: I think a lot of people have a negative opinion or thoughts about accounting? a) I don’t need it. b) they are in my business. c) they’re going to steal my money. I don’t want anybody else handling my money. What can you say to people who have those kinds of fears when it comes to bringing someone in from the outside to help them with their finances?

Gena: Trust is always the thing. I certainly get it. But when we find ourselves in situations in business, we have to change our mindset a little bit, and be willing to give up a little control. And to be willing to trust a little bit more. It’s difficult because there’s money involved. Historically, some people have always been like why are you in my business? But because I do understand that... I think that people do need to take their time and make sure that they hire the right professional. But I also think they need to be open to hiring a professional in the first place. That alone is a mind shift that needs to take place to be successful in business.

Coach Swan: Do they need to wait until they’ve earned a certain amount of money? A lot of people make a few thousand a year. Do they need to wait until they are making 6 figures before they hire someone to help them with my books? Or at what point? I

think we said from the very beginning of starting your business that it’s necessary, right?

Gena: I think for many reasons it needs to be at the beginning. And I realized that there’s not always investors involved. And it’s not always a situation where you were able to write up the plans and the projections and all those things. But even at a basic level, thinking about budgeting, and just inquiring, for example, I have calls with people all the time. I say do these 5 things, do these 2 things, you know, just make sure that you’re keeping these receipts. I think even approaching a professional CPA or attorney to get the basics is free.

Coach Swan: What are those 3 to 5 things that you would recommend that businesses basically do? Especially cannabis businesses?

Gena: I would say that cannabis businesses especially need to make sure that they have some type of software, that they’re tracking their inventory, their revenue, making sure of what they have... a professional bookkeeper at least.

The reason behind this is I want to make sure that they’re maximizing their cost of goods sold, which is really the only way they’re able to deduct any expenditures in the business. And that’s going to be key to profitability. I would just say make sure that your bank accounts are properly titled that you have more.... that you kind of pay attention to the differences between somebody being an owner on an account or a signer on the account. I want you to make sure that you’re clear on any agreements that you’re making, and what you’re leaving on the table for somebody else, and what your portion is that you’re taking.

We also want to look to make sure nobody’s stealing from you. Next, I want you to make sure that you’re looking at not only your profit also look at your balance sheet. How much cash do you have? What’s your burn rate? What do you need? What do you

have in the bank right now? And how far could that get you if you don’t make another sale until 6 months from now? Would you be out of business? How long could you last? Could you make payroll, like all these things are sometimes thought about too late, just because nobody’s advised you or them that these are the things that you need to pay attention to. Employee theft and worker theft is like crazy because they know you’re not looking.

Coach Swan: That’s right. And the numbers don’t lie, right? The numbers tell the story of your business.

Gena: That’s right. And that’s why I love accounting, because I could just... You know, I have a lot of clients who I’ve never met, but when they send me the documents, when they send me their statements, when they send me all this information, I can tell the whole story of their life just by reading this information. Addiction, other weaknesses, astuteness, cheating people. You can tell all this just by looking at this documentation. And it’s totally fascinating!

Coach Swan: Absolutely! What jurisdictional areas do you serve ? We know that we have issues at a federal level. And then individual states have their own issues? Do you have a service area? Or can you help anybody anywhere?

Gena: Generally speaking, I stay in the federal tax arena, and with that I could serve taxpayers in all 50 states. What I’m generally focusing on is, how can I help you to relax when you get that letter from the IRS because I want to switch the narrative from oh my god, they’re going to audit me to let’s just give them access to the online document portal that we have, and gone on vacation, because it’s already done. It’s nothing to worry about.

Coach Swan: I love it!

Gena: Oh, yes. In my mind, it’s not that difficult. You know, if something happens, and you just blow it up in your mind, and you keep hearing other people blowing it up, and you’re just like, oh, my God! But it really doesn’t to be that way.

Coach Swan: That’s why preparation is so important from the very beginning.

Gena: Exactly.

Coach Swan: When people make a call or reach out to Gena, what should they expect?

Gena: We have a program called Don’t Blow It. And Don’t Blow It is where we really get a hold of cannabis businesses and their

owner/ CEO to sit down and say, look, this is where your business is right now. Here are the weaknesses. And here’s where you need to improve. We’re going to do that for you. We’re going to make sure that you know, you have these controls in place, and that you have your documentation and then you have all your SOPs because really a lot of the times that people have a tax problem or they have adjustment on that tax liability, it’s just because they can’t communicate what they’re doing effectively. Nobody can read what’s in your head. What’s in your head is not on paper. It’s all about communication and making it clear, making it plain and being able to easily allow somebody else to understand how you operate, why you do, what you do, what the control points are, and how you’re making sure that everything is getting counted correctly. And that all the money and expenditures are properly categorized.

Coach Swan: How do you prefer that people reach out to you? Do you prefer that they call your office? Do you prefer they go to social media, go to your website, which would you prefer?

Gena: I would like for them to go to our website www. CannaBossCFO.com and schedule a call. I usually like to enroll people in our program in person, because it allows me to have an opportunity to meet face to face and kind of just gauge their disposition. When we start talking about the audit letter and the IRS calling, a lot of times people get fidgety…like oh my God, I could go to jail. I have to tell them we’re just talking.

I always ask why would you go to jail? It’s just interesting because from that point, the transformation takes place. And when it is time for the audit, just kind of comparing their disposition from then to after we work together is just amazing. Like, you don’t realize the amount of stress and illness that can occur just because the IRS is evolved in your life for some reason. And it’s just unnecessary. And I just want to tell people, don’t be scared, just get your stuff together. Let’s just get it together. You know what I mean? And then you don’t have to worry about it.

Coach Swan: I love it. Well, Gena, it has been a pleasure. Getting all of this wonderful information from you. And thank you for sharing all this information with our readers. I think I might share this video because people can get some added value by listening.

Gena: Oh, my God, I wasn’t ready for the video!

Coach Swan: People are going to hear you on the main stage. They’re going to hear you in the breakout sessions. But hearing it just makes sense, right? It makes sense. And people have to hear sometimes as well as read what’s on the page. So, let’s think about what we’re going to do with this video content LOL>

Gena: Alright, I would have at least put on some lipstick!

Coach Swan: LOL this is amazing! This is very educational for me. I’m so glad that our paths crossed because I think you’re going to definitely be a huge value add this year!

Gena Jones

Well, thank you so much! And the pleasure is mine. Always glad to talk about how people can calm down and not be so nervous about IRS interactions. But I definitely look forward to the conference.

The Medicinal Potential for CBD In America

CBD versus THC

Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are among the various cannabinoids which can be found within the cannabis plant. The two compounds merge with the cannabinoid receptors located in the immune system. But the kind of effects offered by these substances is outstanding. Consequently, CBD is used for daily medicinal purposes in contrast to THC.

THC

THC is the organic psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant. THC can likewise be characterized as the compound which conveys the “high” feeling related with the use of cannabis. THC works by manifesting the effects of anandamide which a neurotransmitter is often made by the human body to help in the regulation of sleep, appetite, and pain.

The effects of THC include:

• Mental rest

• An enhanced sense of sight, smell, and hearing

• Tiredness

• Stimulation of Appetite

• Reduced hostility

The Medical employments of THC

Past investigations have demonstrated that this cannabinoid may have the ability to help in the treatment of the following:

• After impacts of chemotherapy; Increase in yearning due to a decline in nausea and vomiting

• Multiple sclerosis; Enhanced spasticity and working of the bladder while diminishing horrendous spasms and chronic pain

• Glaucoma; decreased impulse inside the eye

• AIDS; Eases signs by activating appetite and food consumption

• Spinal damage; decreases trembling

CBD

CBD and THC have a similar chemical formula, yet the particles are unexpectedly orchestrated. This slight change makes THC to build up a psychoactive effect while CBD needs such an impact. CBD contains around 40 percent of cannabis concentrate. Its extensive nature joined with its failure to make a “high” effect, make it reasonable for medicinal purposes.

The effects of CBD include:

• Reduces bipolar disorder

• Alleviates seizures and nausea

• Reduced anxiety

• Reduced irritation

The Medical employments of CBD

Recent investigations into CBD show that it may be profitable in treating the following conditions:

• Schizophrenia; Decrease psychological instability

• Social anxiety disorder; Reduce nervousness

• Depression; Lessens indications of depression

• Reduces side effects of Cancer treatments; Reduction in pain and nausea while stimulating \ appetite

• Shrinks Cancerous Tumors

• Treatment of Alzheimer’s

• Helps Relieve Chronic Pain

• Eases Insomnia

Why is CBD more valuable for medicinal use than THC?

THC is considered as an unlawful drug with usual short and long-term psychological symptoms such as decreased thinking and reasoning, fall in the ability to plan and create, change in basic decision making and fall in the regulation of impulses. Additionally, constant use of THC can prompt significant abnormalities in the heart and mind.

CBD does not have the harming effects of THC. CBD does not have the psychoactive impacts of THC, both as plant and when taken from a concentrate. Cannabis plants with tiny proportions of CBD and raised measures of THC result in an all the more dominant inclination, while plants with more CBD and fewer THC results to a relaxation effect. Because of the ascent of medicinal cannabis, producers are currently making strains with higher CBD to THC ratios to constrain the psychoactive manifestations.

The little health dangers of CBD, joined with its effectiveness, make it suitable for medicinal applications than THC.

COACH SWAN Cliffnotes

5 Nuggets for Starting A Scalable CBD Brand In Any Economy

From The Vault of Coach Swan Simpson

I started Canna Bistro in a hotel room when I left Las Vegas and moved back to Atlanta. I just got back to the Atlanta area and was looking for an apartment. I did not find anything right way. Then I thought about how much money I would be throwing away on an apartment long term. And I did not want to commit to a lease just yet. I needed to see how Georgia would react to my CBD business first. If not, I would just pack up and head back to Vegas. Atlanta was ripe for this.

This report contains the 5 Golden Nuggets on which I Built Canna Bistro from $5 smoothies to a $12 Million valuation before selling.

• Develop The Right Relationships. I am not talking about going to parties and events and handing out your business card. You need to make real friends and real networks with real people who know and like you. This industry is not like any other. It is not for the lone wolf or the person who wants to hold all their ideas and cards to the heart. It’s not just about who you know. It’s about who knows and likes you. Collecting business cards is a turn off to real players in the industry. It’s the sign of someone whose not serious about any long term success.

• Build It To Sell or Build It To Hold. You must have a plan that clearly spells out what you will do, if this all goes south and no longer works. New political factions and new political administrations can walk it all back. And the person with no exit plan will lose. This has happened in California several times. People have lost fortunes. You are up one day and down the next. But that is the thrill of being in the Cannabis or CBD industry that offers those who can weather the storm, the big 7 figure, 8 figure, 9 figure PLUS payoff! What’s your end game? To make some money then pull out. Or to build long term and hold. Either way, begin with the end in mind.

• Understanding Local & State Laws. Biggest mistake you can make, is putting money in and starting your CBD or Cannabis related business even if it is an Accounting firm, Law firm, or HR firm…these laws change daily and you

will get caught up fast! It will destroy your entire life savings and company if you roll out with no understanding. Because of the nuance in the various laws, I have Attorneys as clients who have never been taught any of this in a law school because it’s all so new and changes daily in some cases. There are still states that prohibit CBD sales. There are still states where you cannot ship CBD products to a customer who orders on your website. Understanding the fundamentals will help you survive like a pro.

• Know Your Numbers. When I walked into the Manhattan offices of a large Cannabis Venture Capital Firm, I was prepared with the hard data. There were more than 113 other companies making a similar pitch, so I had to be on point. A flowery presentation was not going to cut it. I knew my business front and back when it came to the numbers. It was very similar to Shark Tank except they were much more polite in most cases. See the numbers say it all. How much business have you done this year? Last year? What is your rate of growth? How much does it cost to produce your product… down to the penny. What are your projections for next year? How much have you invested in the business? What are you planning to do with the capital or the funds you have on the table or will potentially have on the table? Numbers tell everything. We always know our numbers down to the minute of the day. Now, understand that I cannot keep up with this data by myself. I have a team of other very smart women to help me sort through and to stay on top of things. If I need reports or quick access to certain data, someone on my team has that information available. The numbers help us run a very lean business that is built on organic growth. Organic growth is growth you can control. The biggest takeaway from this report is this…always be in control of your growth. Live below your means until your business can replace all other income sources 10X. Sure, we can go out and buy a bunch of material bullshit and ball out of control. Or we can invest and reinvest in a $20 Million Dollar PLUS business that builds enormous wealth, creates a legacy, and employs large numbers of people in the community. Know your numbers and stay lean. That is how you survive a pandemic or any crisis. It’s how you win!

• Find a Mentor to Hold You Accountable. Shadowing people and learning processes is not enough. You have to build your business on solid fundamentals. Shadowing people and watching what they do and working in a CBD store is never going to reveal these fundamentals to you. I have Politicians that I coach privately. They move in the industry a certain way because they have a solid coach in their ear helping them make the right calculating business decisions.

• There is a saying…A wise man learns from his own mistakes and experiences. But a GENIUS learns from the mistakes and experiences of others. We all have choices. Make the ones that will help you win.

Health Benefits of Full Spectrum Marijuana extracts (medical marijuana)

Pain Relief

One of the widespread benefits of full spectrum marijuana is its pain relieving ability. People suffering from chronic pain and related disease can find relief in medical marijuana. Medical marijuana has several ways to deal with pain. The cannabinoids within the cannabis plant have anti-inflammatory properties, which function as a muscle relaxant, improves sleep and heals the body. The endocannabinoid system of the body is responsible for regulating pain sensation. When cannabinoids are ingested, it restores the body to its natural pain-free harmony.

Anxiety Relief

Full-spectrum marijuana contains a lot of calming properties. The cortisol level of the body increases when we are anxious. According to several studies, CBD, a popular cannabinoid, can reduce the cortisol levels significantly more than a placebo. Medical marijuana can help in the treatment of several stress factors such as social situations, workrelated stress, and general anxiety disorder. Most prescription medications meant for anxiety disorder often lead to undesired symptoms. Full- spectrum marijuana is a natural product which doesn’t lead to any negative side effect.

Sleep Aid

Medical marijuana can help people suffering from different forms of sleep deprivation. According to numerous studies, medical marijuana can significantly increase the rate of sleep an individual gets at night and can also be an effective treatment for insomnia. Most pharmaceutical pills meant for insomnia often have drastic side effects and aren’t useful for everyone. Full spectrum marijuana is organic and doesn’t lead to any adverse symptoms.

Migraine Relief

Full spectrum marijuana can be effectively used as a treatment for migraines, and it’s considered to be more effective than pharmaceutical pills. According to a study, cannabinoids can effectively reduce the pain of migraines and decrease the number of cluster headaches and migraines. It’s usually hard to determine the cause of migraines, but the use of the required tools (like full-spectrum marijuana) you can adequately protect and treat yourself from migraines.

Depression

Cannabis compounds have a natural mood-enhancing effect. Several types of depression result from an imbalance in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). When cannabinoids are ingested into the system, the body may experience an elevated mood and decreased levels of anxiety. It’s hard to find an effective prescription medication for depression and most of them always have adverse side effects. Medical marijuana is an organic product which means it has few or no adverse side effects.

Cramp Relief

Frequent cramps can be very detrimental for people who like to run. Cannabis compounds can relax your muscles and lessen inflammation, which is precisely what is required to help relieve the pain of a cramp. Applying medical marijuana to the source of the problem or a venous area will lead to effective relief.

General wellbeing

Cannabinoids can effectively relieve the pain and anxiety in patients. Cannabis compounds can also potentially stop and reverse the spread of cells related to cancer. According to numerous studies, the use of cannabinoids can help in the fight against harmful disease such as cancer. Many studies have proven that full spectrum marijuana can replace the damaging treatment options suffered by most patients.

Health Alert: Safety and Effectiveness of CBD Oil

CBD oil is very popular right now. CBD oil is made by extracting cannabidiol from the cannabis plant and diluting it in carrier oil, often coconut or hemp seed oil. As marijuana and marijuanarelated products are becoming legal and more socially acceptable, CBD oil is becoming more popular and affordable. But is CBD oil safe? Is it effective?

Let’s take a look.

CBD oil does have possible side effects for people who are allergic to hemp. These include:

• Dry mouth

• Reduced appetite

• Fatigue

• Drowsiness

• Diarrhea

• Increase in liver enzymes

• It can also interact negatively with certain medications.

Beyond the potential allergic reactions, overall, CBD oil is quite safe and is not addictive. And most of the possible side effects are quite mild. However, if you are experiencing shortness of breath and heart palpitations, you may have a severe reaction and should stop taking CBD and see a healthcare provider immediately.

If you are taking other medications, consult a healthcare provider to discuss the potential of CBD to enhance your current medications and their effectiveness. Or to determine if CBD should be eliminated from your routine. All of the possible drug interactions haven’t been tested yet. Taking too much CBD oil can also raise liver enzymes, which suggests the possibility that the liver is being stressed. As with all new supplements, less is more. And do your research. Remember, the medical industry is incentivized by pharmaceutical companies to promote their medications. No matter the condition, find what works best for your body. No two bodies are the same.

As with any medicinal product, it would be wise to consult with your physician before using it.

THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL BENEFITS TIED TO CBD OIL USE:

• Chemotherapy. CBD oil can reduce nausea, vomiting, and pain in those receiving chemotherapy treatment.

• Many people with cancer claim the treatment is worse than the cancer itself. CBD oil can make chemo a lot more tolerable.

• Pain relief. Records show that cannabis has been used to treat pain for nearly 5,000 years. CBD is one of the primary components of cannabis that soothes pain.

• CBD oil has been found to reduce pain in several studies. Given that many traditional pain medications have many negative side effects and are addictive, CBD oil is very attractive for treating chronic pain.

• Hypertension. One study showed that CBD oil lowers blood pressure and may reduce the likelihood of stroke and heart attack.

• Anxiety relief. CBD oil has been found to be effective in treating anxiety. This is great news, because CBD oil isn’t addictive.

• Many anxiety medications are addictive and often produce undesirable side effects, such as insomnia, agitation, drowsiness, and sexual dysfunction.

• Acne reduction. The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD oil are believed to be responsible for the reduction of acne in regular consumers of CBD oil. It’s also believed that CBD oil reduces sebum production.

• Diabetes and cancer. Studies in animals suggest that CBD oil could be effective in treating and preventing both cancer and diabetes. This benefit, however, is still being researched.

• Tumors grow more slowly, and cancer spreads throughout the body more slowly in rats that are given CBD oil.

• CBD oil also reduces the incidence of diabetes in rats by over 50% when CBD oil is ingested.

You might be concerned that CBD oil might get you high since it’s a cannabis-related product. The short answer is “no,” it will not. The legal market of CBD oil contains cannabidiol, and trace amounts of THC. THC is the compound that produces the “high” in cannabis. In fact, CBD oil products with more than 0.3% THC are illegal in many states.

One of the issues with CBD oil is dosing and consistency. CBD oil production is largely unregulated. One manufacturer’s product might have significantly more or less CBD than another’s. A product from the same manufacturer might have consistency issues from one batch to the next.

If you decide to use CBD oil, consider the source before you purchase.

CBD oil has a lot of benefits and provides a minimal amount of risk for most people. It’s important to do the necessary research and talk to your physician. CBD oil might be a great choice for you but be sure to make a well-informed decision.

Simple Ways to Overcome your Fear of Taking Massive Action

Don’t fault yourself for being afraid of taking that big step--the massive action that needs to happen to realize your dream! It’s a natural response to moving out of your comfort zone. But while you shouldn’t rebuke yourself for feeling fearful, neither should you wallow in it so that you never get past it. When fear rears it’s ugly head, use these simple tactics to put it in perspective and move on.

Recognize fear is only a feeling

Fear can feel very, very real. But it’s only an emotion that survives and thrives when we dwell on it and start to believe it. The first step in mastering your fear of taking massive action is to remember to tell yourself that fear isn’t real--that it’s only a feeling that can’t hurt you.

Remember, everyone has experienced fear of failure

Everyone experiences fear before they try something new. Think Tony Robbins hasn’t experienced fear of failure? Sure he has, and I’m sure he would tell you that himself. Everyone has experienced fear of failure, the fear of looking like a fool, the fear of losing friends when you become too famous, too wealthy, too thin, or whatever. When a moment of panic comes over you, image your

role model and remember that they too have experienced fear. But they moved through it anyway.

Take the first small step

We’ve all heard Newton’s 1st Law of Motion: A body at rest tends to stay at rest, while a body in motion tends to stay in motion. Notice that feeling of fear, and then take that first small step in spite of it. You will feel amazing after you’ve done that one little thing. You’ll realize that you can do it, and you’ll be excited to take that next step. Fear will be replaced by enthusiasm!

Use a lifeline

Sometimes we recognize fear for what it is, but can’t seem to get over the hurdle anyway. That’s the right time to call in some reinforcements. Get ahold of a friend, colleague or family member who is totally on board with your goal. Buy them a cup of coffee and talk to them about your feelings. Use them as a sounding board, ask for their advice or just come on out and ask for a pep talk! This person loves you and has faith that you can achieve your goal, so you don’t need to worry about being embarrassed to tell them that fear has you in a paralyzing grip! They will support you through each step you take; sometimes all we need is to hear a person we love and admire tell us it will be all right.

The Challenges of Cannabis Social Equity Programs 2022

As a measure to overturn the fallout from the war on drugs, the state of California hopes to bring the less- privileged people into California’s cannabis industry through the use of social equity programs.

Social equity programs are creating high hopes among supporters – and they are also being criticized by the marijuana industry insiders who think the programs have resulted in more problems than solutions.

At least four cities in California have implemented social equity programs, and these cities include, Los Angeles, Oakland, Sacramento, and San Francisco.

In 2018, California Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation – the California Cannabis Equity Act of 2018 which was meant to assist municipalities in increasing participation in the programs.

According to the bill’s author, California State Sen. Steven Bradford, if people of color with financial capital and high business acumen are facing challenged acquiring licenses, then people with no money and past convictions will be left out. Nevertheless, despite the best intentions, some people consider the implementation of the social equity programs as less than perfect. Issues reported include:

• The shortage of staffing and funds for the program.

• Qualified candidates have to wait for long periods before there are granted licenses.

• Low oversight of business association arrangements within social equity applicants and external investors. This has resulted in what many people consider as a potential for social equity applicants to likely lose their fair share in their businesses.

According to some analyst, the stage where social equity programs can’t meet up with the challenges is still to come, and it seems like the program was meant to fail. The reason why the program had to fail was due to staffing shortages at the Department of Cannabis Regulation and lack of funding.

Various people have also expressed their criticisms for the program. Most dispensary owners in the state are very concerned about the delays.

According to an Oakland social equity licensee Michael Manning, a shortage of contractual oversight based on partnerships between applicants and investors has resulted in a new “Wild West.”

Investors are using the equity program as a means to enter the industry, and minority groups are not given an opportunity to participate in the industry.

Challenges faced by Social equity applicants and investors

Most social equity applicants don’t have access to bank loans or venture capital. Applicants also lack knowledge on how to apply for these licenses; therefore, agreements between applicants and investors are required.

Investors seeking to qualify for priority application processing have to agree with certain local ordinances mandating such liaisons.

Even though agreements are meant to benefit both parties financially, critics argue that it can result in opportunities for investors to divest social equity applicants of their share in the business.

There is the lack of checks and balances in the program and investors are becoming predatory by making the partnerships fraudulent.

According to some critics, partnerships can underestimate the objectives of social equity programs even when conducted in good faith.

Another issue has to do with program funding shortfalls. The 2018 California Cannabis Equity Act offered millions in loans, grants, and other supportive services to assist social equity applicants. A zero interest, four-year loan program was also launched in Oakland which is available to social equity marijuana license applicants. However, despite the high financial assistance used in helping social equity applicants to operate independently, some say the funds won’t meet up with the challenges.

Lawsuits have been filed in the City of Detroit challenging the constitutionality of social equity. Detroit’s Social Equity Program was rendered useless and declared unconstitutional by a Federal Judge.

Solutions

Solutions may be available using blockchain technology. NFTs, Crypto, & the Metaverse all offer great potential. Contact Coach Swan Simpson and her team to learn more about these potential shifts. Visit www.CoachSwanSimpson.com or info@CoachSwanSimpson.com

Tips on How to Open a Marijuana Dispensary

Starting a cannabis dispensary can be both a difficult and an exciting thing to do. According to the federal law in the United States, the use and possession of cannabis are illegal; therefore, a cannabis dispensary will face several challenges. There are numerous things you have to remember if you need to open a dispensary and guarantee it is a productive investment. Ensure you:

• Learn the cannabis rules and regulations of your state

• Do not have a previous criminal offense based on the requirements of your state

• Understand the dangers related to running a dispensary, which can still be closed by state or federal government

• Submit the required paperwork and forms

• Build up a banking relationship

• Understand that you will probably not reap profits for a short period.

Inquire about Laws

Are you planning on opening a medical, recreational or both?

The functioning of dispensaries have been legalized in most US states, but the laws also range from one county to another. Begin with your state’s regulatory agency, and also work with the municipal offices of your state to be sure that you are permitted to run a dispensary in your region legally.

Create a Business Plan

Your business plan should be the first step to a successful business. Learn what is needed to establish your business. A business plan is the primary foundation of your business: a simple, convincing, durable road map that will set up your enterprise and help in seeking for investors, writing a vivid description of your objectives, goals, projections, and assets. If you develop a solid business plan, then you will potentially be successful in discovering the financial capacities to finance your venture and prove that you are a compelling and qualified candidate.

Understand the principles of cultivation

Most cannabis dispensaries are responsible for growing their marijuana on site. If you don’t plan on growing your cannabis, it is essential to know the principles of cultivation, the risks and the impacts of seasonal weather patterns.

Hire a Lawyer

It’s essential to have an experienced cannabis business lawyer to set up your business entity properly. Creating a strong bond with your attorney can save you cash and alleviate any setback during your business. An attorney will give you legal advice and help you safeguard the necessary licenses and permits to prevent raids from the authorities once your business commences. Lawyers will

create a cannabis dispensary which is under the state, city and county regulations.

Hire an Accountant

Professional accountants can handle the financial aspect of the business and acknowledge the effect of 280E. Accountants can appropriately regulate the general finances and also effectively file tax forms. Since cannabis dispensaries are still illegal under the federal government, the probability of the cannabis dispensary being audited by the IRS is very high. Hiring a certified public accountant will make sure that you are protected in the event of an audit.

Buy or Rent the Necessary Facility for your Dispensary

Location is an essential aspect regarding marketing your business, determining which products to sell, and establishing prices. Your site represents your company, your brand, and the customers you want to attract. Since dispensaries are a very risky investment, most individuals choose to rent a property before buying. There are some online tools like traffic pattern information, demographic data and traffic “generators” that will help in determining which location will gain optimal traffic for your dispensary.

Acquire Funds

Although costs range from one state to the other, based on your state, you will need a certain amount of money to open a dispensary. You will also need an application for a license, state, and mandatory city fees, cost of the facility, payroll, bills, and stationaries like furniture, security systems, computer systems, and software.

Obtain Licenses, Permits, and Insurance

Obtaining licenses and permits are mandatory. If you plan to legally start selling cannabis or put a clone or seed in a pot, then it’s necessary to have a license and permits in place.