Jesse McElvain

Holistic Approach to Revenue Operations A common error in management is compartmentalizing sales, marketing, and operational roles too rigidly: that all teams are aligned and working towards common goals. Marketing should generate leads that sales can close effectively, while operations should ensure fulfillment capabilities match sales efforts. Recognize that while sales teams are directly responsible for driving revenue, other departments like marketing and PR play crucial supportive roles that prepare the ground for sales to succeed. Each function strengthens the other, and their activities should be integrated rather than segregated

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Hey #cannabisindustry, The WeedWeek newsletter is up! -- Pesticide questions pile up in California Link and lots more in the comments

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I've seen firsthand how costly and time-consuming cannabis lab testing can be for nurseries and producers, big and small. Waiting days for results can delay crucial decisions in cultivation. But PACTECH's in-house lab testing kit offers a solution. Powered by AI, it delivers instant results, saving time and allowing precise adjustments to nutrient imbalances. From monitoring THC and terpene profiles to slashing external testing expenses, PACTECH revolutionizes cannabis testing. Embracing AI in horticulture brings innovation and efficiency, ultimately improving outcomes and saving resources. Ready to leverage AI to enhance testing and save money? Learn more at: https://lnkd.in/gXYNk_Ur. What do you think about using AI for quick, DIY, in-house testing of leaf tissue, cannabinoids, and terpenes? #cannabis #cannabisindustry #cannabisculture

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Cannabis startups are DEF a rollercoaster - 2 wks ago I was reeling from several gut punches... but today, things are looking bright: ✅ LOTS of new products in the pipeline that I'm SO pumped about... our Live Resin Vapes drop in NY before 710 and they're 🔥 🔥 🔥 . A bunch more new stuff I can't reveal them yet too… ✅ in NY, LIVE NUGS are in almost completely sold out - with most places re-ordering after < 2 wks selling a $100+ SKU! We’re getting a ton of inbound interest - shows that innovative products that deliver real value sell. Still early, but we should 2-3X our best month ever... NY as a market feels like it’s FINALLY getting its footing (hope I’m not jinxing us here). ✅ in CA, we've signed 4 MONSTER accounts since HoF and our new SKUs (esp Live Rosin Pre-Rolls and Live Rosin Vapes) are FLYING... it's painful for our cash flow to be scaling to meet demand, but feeling very positive about the turnaround in the most challenging state. About to sign up for the next big show in Sept… ❓thinking about expansion - though it's still early (wanna make sure our foundation & processes are solid in CA / NY)... but what potential partners should we be talking to in NJ for cultivation / processing / sales & distro? HMU via DM pls... None of this would be possible without our incredible team (Martin Mills, Cirona Labs, Peter Pietrangeli, Euphoric life , Lowell Farms Inc.) and our amazing retail partners. In general, I try not to get too high or too low - but feeling immensely optimistic about the state! Gotta celebrate the wins - as tomorrow I'm fully expecting to be punched in the face again LOL. BTW, in the rollercoaster analogy - which part is “good”? I assume it’s when you’re going downhill (despite Kevin Hart’s face)?! But then when we talk about life’s ups and downs or highs and lows - it’s the opposite right? Make it make sense?!

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Hey #cannabisindustry The WeedWeek newsletter is up! -- What rescheduling means, and what it doesn't Link and lots more in the comments

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The cannabis industry is booming, but let’s be real—hemp is clearly the MVP. In 2022, the hemp market raked in a whopping $28 billion, leaving the marijuana market trailing behind at “only” $26 billion. Who knew that while marijuana was out trying to look cool, hemp would quietly take over? Sure, marijuana has had its time in the spotlight with all the hype, dispensaries, and Instagram influencers. But hemp’s the one doing the real work, showing up everywhere from wellness products to eco-friendly materials, and let’s not forget all those everyday items people don’t even realize have hemp in them! It’s the true underdog story of a plant that doesn’t need all the flashy lights to make a big impact. While marijuana’s been focused on recreational fame, hemp’s been building a sustainable empire. It’s a jack-of-all-trades, fitting right into personal care, health products, healthier intoxicating products(than alcohol), food, textiles—you name it, hemp’s in it. So while the marijuana market is hanging out in dispensaries and waiting for its next big state to legalize, hemp’s already in the pantry, the medicine cabinet, and probably the clothes on your back. Just go into a marijuana dispensary and take a look around: it’s the usual suspects—standard CBD and THC products, nothing new. Meanwhile, the hemp industry is leading in real innovation with a whole array of natural cannabinoids. Delta-8, CBG, CBN—the options keep growing, with products designed for focus, relaxation, and everything in between. The hemp market is also adding other popular herbs and combining them with unique CBC, THCV, CBN, and CBG blends far before marijuana operators even think to. It’s no wonder they’re trying to shut us down—hemp’s raising the bar on every front. So while marijuana’s riding on reputation, hemp’s the one rolling in the real success, staying ahead of the curve, and keeping things interesting. #hemp #hempissmarter #cannabisindustry #hempindustry #minnesota #florida #wisconsin

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Wait, some operators are really cutting back? I looked into it and was surprised to see this was actually happening. I believe that when done right, marketing is one of the best investments any business can make, but I think I see the problem. Too many brands hire someone to run socials and write copy, just to end up with cookie-cutter content. Meanwhile, there are creators out there leveraging their personal brands, creating loyal followings, and disrupting entire industries. At Higher State Brands, we’re leaning into that. We’re documenting every part of our journey, from crafting the business plan all the way to our first harvests and beyond. I don’t think anyone’s done this before, but it will be real, raw, and it’s the kind of authentic connection that’s impossible to fake. We don’t need a massive marketing budget, just our phones recording our daily interactions. This is exactly what we’ve been doing every day the past few months. We finally got some help to edit those vlog style clips, so stay tuned for a YouTube channel soon!

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AI is hungry for data, and your cannabis business might be its next meal ticket. AI is evolving rapidly. Here's why a recent music industry development matters for cannabis businesses: -> Universal Music Group partners with AI startup ProRata -> ProRata's tech attributes and compensates content owners in AI use -> This highlights the growing value of intellectual property in AI era -> Cannabis industry has vast, untapped IP in - processes and documentation -> Protecting and leveraging this IP is crucial for growth and efficiency The music industry is taking steps to protect and monetize its IP in the age of AI. This move underscores a critical point for cannabis businesses (licensed & ancillary): YOUR intellectual property is more valuable than ever. ProRata raised $25 million to develop AI attribution technology The deal aims to compensate content owners for AI's use of their material Cannabis businesses possess extensive IP in processes, formulas, and documentation "We are encouraged to see new entrepreneurial innovation set into motion in the Generative AI space guided by objectives that align with our own vision of how this revolutionary technology can be used ethically and positively while rewarding human creativity," says Sir Lucian Grainge, CEO of Universal Music Group. Think about your company's Google Drives, handwritten notes, and developed processes. How are you protecting this goldmine of IP? More importantly, how could you leverage it to scale your business in the AI era? #Cannabisindustry #AIInnovation Article in comments

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As the cannabis industry matures, we are starting to get reliable data. This can help make decisions based on real sales figures and not predictions. 10 years ago, there was only one state with adult use sales (#colorado) and a handful of states with medical seals. Now there is 24 sates with adult use sales and an additional 15 states with medical seals. At the moment #california leads with total seals but #michigan leads with per capita seals. #florida leads in medical seals. #missouri with a relatively small population and only 17 months since they launched their adult-use market, is already in fifth place. Thank you Debra Borchardt from Green Market Report for the financial update. #cannabisindustry #cannabiscommunity #cannabisnews #cannabiseducation #cannabispolicy #cannbislaw https://lnkd.in/gc96gcCh

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Expectations expectations it’s all about expectations The longer section about expectations and backstage behavior Make no assumptions about prior understanding. Lay it out, stick to it, keep working towards priorities #camnabisindustry #expert 🌱🌱🌱strive to thrive🌱🌱🌱

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What's a no brainer in business? Spend $75K, make additional $6.5M in revenue. This is the difference between a 10,000 sqft cannabis #CEA cultivation growing 2.0lbs a light (57g/sqft) x 4 harvests per year and the same cannabis grow running our Grow Perfect 10 program conservatively getting 2.5lbs per light (75g/sqft) x 5 harvests per year. If you go with our facility design + SOPs we can consistently get you to 3+ lbs per light 5+ harvests per year of top shelf quality. Data doesn't lie, combine that with proven SOPs and processes and you don't lose. #cannabiscea #cannabisdesignbuild #doitforthehorticulture

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The cannabis industry is packed with self-proclaimed 'experts,' but real expertise runs deeper than titles and buzzwords. It’s built through years of hands-on experience, scientific study, navigating complex regulations, and truly understanding the plant’s potential from seed to sale. Cannabis demands constant learning and adaptability. While some are here for the hype, only a few are fully dedicated to mastering cultivation, genetics, sustainability, and the needs of consumers. If you’re in it for the money, fame, or hype, be ready to back it up. But if you’re here giving it your all to work with this historically misunderstood plant, touching lives and strengthening communities, you’re exactly where you belong. There’s no other industry we’d rather be a part of. Agree? #cannabis #cannabisindustry #cannabiscommunity

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Is HLVd Killing the Cannabis Industry? Check out my latest article on HLVD and if you want to read the entire article with a free eradication plan/SOP head over to growworld.com! Here's a sneak peak: Understanding Hop Latent Viroid in Cannabis: Identification and Management Hop Latent Viroid (HLVd) stands as a prominent concern for cannabis cultivators globally. Despite its diminutive size, this infectious agent possesses the capability to inflict significant harm on cannabis crops if left unaddressed. Acquiring a comprehensive grasp of HLVd, discerning its symptoms, and executing effective management protocols are imperative for upholding the health and productivity of cannabis plants. What is Hop Latent Viroid (HLVd)? HLVd represents a single-stranded, circular RNA molecule classified within the Pospiviroidae family. Contrary to its nomenclature, this viroid impacts not only hop plants but also a variety of other crops, including cannabis. Devoid of a protein coat, HLVd relies on the host's cellular machinery for replication and primarily disseminates through contaminated plant material, tools, and water sources. Symptoms of HLVd Infection in Cannabis: Detecting HLVd infection in cannabis plants can be intricate due to symptoms that may vary based on factors such as strain, environmental conditions, and coexisting pathogens. Nevertheless, several common indicators may hint at the presence of HLVd: Stunted Growth: Infected plants typically manifest diminished vigor and growth in comparison to healthy counterparts, characterized by delayed development and reduced overall size. Leaf Deformities: Anomalies in leaf growth, encompassing curling, twisting, and cupping, are common in infected plants, affecting both new growth and mature foliage. Discoloration: Leaf yellowing or mottling, particularly along veins, serves as a prevalent symptom of HLVd infection, with variations in intensity and distribution. Reduced Yield: Infected plants commonly exhibit lower yields relative to healthy ones, with decreased flower and resin production significantly impacting the economic viability of cannabis cultivation. Identifying HLVd: While visual inspection may offer initial insights, definitive diagnosis of HLVd necessitates laboratory testing. Techniques like reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) can identify viroid-specific RNA sequences in plant tissue samples. Management Strategies: Upon detecting HLVd, immediate action is imperative to curtail its spread and minimize crop damage. Effective management strategies encompass: Quarantine and Removal: Swiftly isolate infected plants to prevent further contamination. Eliminate and dispose of affected individuals, including roots, stems, and leaves, to eradicate potential sources of HLVd transmission. Check out the rest of my article on LinkedIn and growworld.com!

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🤯 BAD NEWS?!?!?!😱 Curious about the toughest part of our job as a #ContractResearchOrg and third-party validator??? It’s when we have to tell our clients that their product didn’t show their “desired” effects when trialed with #Cannabis. But here’s where the real opportunity lies: using that “not desirable” data to fine-tune and improve your product, transforming it into the best it can be for cannabis. Every great innovation goes through a process of fine-tuning and you can use this information to make strategic improvements, setting your product up for a greater success in the long run. We are here to provide the facts and data to back up your #sales & #marketing claims of your product and to help in the R&D of your product development. DM me if your interested in scheduling a discovery call or learn how we can help you! Thank you Alexander Schroeder & Ed Dolshun for trusting the Cannabis Research Coalition for your project!!! Allison Justice, PhD. Samuel Wallace Selina LaBlanche

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Your First Cannabis Store Costs 3x Your Second It's not just because you invest in the build-out and set-up the first time. You don't repeat. … Although that's part of it. It's because of the investment it takes to build systems Revenue tracking Assortment planning Buying strategies Liquidation practices Inventory SOPs Hiring frameworks Role descriptions Compensation structures Marketing calendars Promotional plan Loyalty programs Customer review captures E-commerce merchandising plans To name a few. Every time you do it, you become more efficient and have an opportunity to optimize it. Scale impacts system complexity: <$3M store vs. $10M store 1-3 stores vs. 5 stores vs. 20+ stores As you grow, your systems need to evolve to meet new challenges. We share tips and tricks for these systems in the Vetrina newsletter.

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🌟 Exciting News from Sluggers 🌟 We’re thrilled to announce that we are actively seeking licensed manufacturers across the country to partner with us and bring the hottest brand in California to your state! Visit hitsluggers.com to learn more about our collectible cannabis products that are taking the market by storm. As we approach becoming the top brand in CA, our full lineup includes premium pre-rolls, vapes, rosin, and more. When you partner with Hit Sluggers, you’re not just getting an incredible product; you’re collaborating with one of California’s largest manufacturers and cultivators Natura (Natura Life Science) Why Partner with Us? 🔹 Proven Success: We understand both sides of the business and know how to ensure profitability. 🔹 Dynamic Brand: We are set to launch the most dynamic, sports-related cannabis brand nationwide. 🔹 Comprehensive Support: Benefit from our expertise in packaging, products, marketing, sales, and operations. 🔹 Quality and Control: We’re looking for partners with a robust supply chain to maintain high standards and increase profit margins and volume. We’ve received tremendous interest and are eager to find the right partners to expand our reach. If you’re ready to elevate your offerings with a top-tier cannabis brand, let’s connect! #HitSluggers #CannabisIndustry #PartnershipOpportunities #NaturalLifeScience #CannabisBrand #Manufacturing #LicensingOpportunity #CannabisCommunity Tag the license operator you want to see bring Hit Sluggers to your state! Let’s make history together! 🚀

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Cannabis Product Hierarchy vs. Naming Convention You might hear the terms "product hierarchy" and "taxonomy" [naming convention] used interchangeably when discussing cannabis products. And there's some truth to that—they are closely linked partners that work together to organize your product catalogue. They play distinct yet complementary roles: → Product Hierarchy The overarching structure that organizes your products into broad categories and specific subcategories. Think of it as a funnel, starting wide with categories like "Flower" and then narrowing into more granular segments like "Bigs" or "Smalls." A well-designed hierarchy serves two key purposes: - It facilitates data capture and analysis, allowing you to understand sales trends and performance at different category levels. - It mirrors how customers mentally organize and shop for products. → Taxonomy [Naming Convention] While hierarchy provides the framework, taxonomy focuses on the precise naming conventions and language used to describe products within that structure. Its goal is to eliminate ambiguity so customers clearly understand what they're buying. For example, instead of simply "Concentrates," using terminology like "Hash" within the Concentrates name immediately clarifies the product type and consumption method. Clear taxonomy ensures your hierarchy makes sense to customers. ↓ Hierarchy is the shelving system, while taxonomy represents the product labels and descriptions that make that system shoppable and intuitive (and easier for you to run analysis on). An organized product catalogue requires both taxonomy and hierarchy. On Vetrina's website, you’ll find a blog breaking this down further.

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Dear #cannabisindustry, If you do any kind of digital marketing in canna at all, lemme tell you why you should care about my first digital product that’s launching next month: The Problem I Saw: Proper #emailmarketing is lacking in the #cannabis industry; it can provide you with more sales, followers, and a more engaged audience base, and it’s also one of the most powerful outlets for spreading awareness on cannabis. The majority of cannabis email marketing today is discount, discount, discount. That will bring you sales, but it pales in comparison to the power of a customer-centered email strategy. My Solution: I’m writing 50 email “templates” that I'm putting together in an easy-to-use Notion doc. I call them “templates” because they’re mostly complete pieces of content (you'll just have add links and logos) The topics covered range from basic beginner’s guides to cannabis, to more advanced topics like “The Entourage Effect Explained,” “How to Choose the Perfect Dab Rig,” and “How to Identify High-Quality CBD Products.” How It Will Help You: If you’re looking to level-up your email marketing game, these templates are one way to do it. Your audience gets bored if you’re constantly selling. So, you want to provide your audience with consistent, valuable information that actually helps them in some way. If you’re regularly giving them tips on how to have a safer, more enjoyable cannabis experience, *and it actually works*, they will continue to engage with you and trust you. And you’ll have 50 emails at your disposal that do just that. And if you’re NOT interested in improving your email marketing, first off, I’d like to formally invite you to subscribe to my newsletter so I can explain to you why you should be, and second off, any of my email templates could be used as social media captions or even mini-blog posts as well! Versatility is the goal. My beginner’s guides are perfect for incorporating into your #welcomeseries or for anyone new to cannabis. My overviews of at-home cultivation and concentrate making can provide value to your more experienced smokers. And my series on Cannabis and Wellness are for the health-conscious consumers that want to try incorporating cannabis into their wellness routines. What You’ll Get: 50 emails covering a huge range of cannabis related topics, FAQ’s, and common pain points. Each email has 3 subject line options to choose from. CTA’s and P.S. are included, you'll just have to add links. Spots throughout the templates for you to link to blogs, products, or homepages. Total of 150 subject lines catered for cannabis brands. Color coordinated fill-in-the-blank style to easily tailor the content to your brand. If you’re in the canna industry and this sounds interesting to you, sign up for my newsletter in my bio to stay up to date on an exact launch date and price. If you’re in the industry and this DOESN’T apply to you, drop me a like or comment for reach! Thanks for reading!

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