In this episode of the Free Spirits Podcast, Lars Miller and David Gonzalez engage with Chris Fontes, CEO and founder of High Spirits Beverages, who shares his journey in the THC beverage industry. Chris discusses the inception of his company, the challenges faced with Delta 8, and the innovative launch of Trojan Horse Cannabis. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal landscape, the significance of supply chain management, and the need for policy advocacy in the evolving cannabis market. Chris also reflects on the lessons learned from the early days of the hemp beverage industry and how they apply to today's marketplace. In this conversation, Chris Fontes discusses the evolution of the cannabis market, particularly focusing on the rise of Delta 9 products and the challenges posed by altinoids. He shares insights on market predictions, the impact of corporate cannabis, and the importance of strategic decision-making in a rapidly changing environment. Fontes emphasizes the need for flexibility and adaptation in business strategies, especially in the beverage industry, where cash flow and production capabilities play crucial roles. He also reflects on his aspirations for High Spirits and the potential for future growth and acquisition.

Takeaways

Chris Fontes revolutionized the beverage industry with THC drinks.

Understanding the legal landscape is crucial for cannabis entrepreneurs.

Delta 8 posed significant challenges for traditional hemp products.

Trojan Horse Cannabis was launched to disrupt the market.

Supply chain management is vital for business success.

Customers prioritize product availability over legal complexities.

Advocacy in policy is essential for industry stability.

The cannabis industry requires grace and collaboration among competitors.

Innovative branding can redefine consumer perceptions of cannabis.

The future of cannabis normalization lies in beverage innovation. Facilitating conversations can lead to effective networking.

Delta 9 products are becoming more prominent in the market.

The rise of altinoids presents both opportunities and challenges.

THCA's future is uncertain amidst regulatory confusion.

Corporate cannabis is adapting to the hemp market.

Smaller companies are slower to enter the hemp space than expected.

Building production capabilities requires significant investment.

Cash flow management is critical in the beverage industry.

Strategic market decisions can mitigate risks.

Flexibility and the ability to pivot are essential for success.

Keywords

THC beverages, cannabis industry, High Spirits Beverages, Delta 8, Trojan Horse Cannabis, hemp policy, beverage innovation, cannabis normalization, supply chain, regulatory landscape, High Spirits, cannabis market, Delta 9, hemp beverages, regulatory challenges, corporate cannabis, market predictions, THCA, altinoids, cash flow

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the THC Beverage Revolution

01:45 The Birth of High Spirits Beverages

07:19 Navigating the Delta 8 Challenge

12:57 Launching Trojan Horse Cannabis

17:57 Lessons from the Early Days of Hemp Beverages

22:30 The Intersection of Business and Policy Advocacy

27:31 Facilitating Conversations for Growth

28:04 Market Insights and Predictions

28:58 The Rise of Delta 9 Products

29:57 Navigating the Altinoid Landscape

30:58 The Future of THCA and Regulatory Challenges

34:01 Corporate Cannabis and Market Adaptation

36:03 Small vs. Large Players in the Hemp Market

38:58 Building Production Capabilities

42:06 Cash Flow Challenges in Beverage Industry

46:02 Strategic Market Decisions

52:00 Future Aspirations for High Spirits

In this episode of the Free Spirits Podcast, host Lars Miller and co-host David Gonzalez welcome Lisa Hurwitz, president and co-founder of Happi, a low-dose THC beverage brand.

They discuss Lisa's unique experience of running a cannabis beverage company while living in Nicaragua, the challenges and opportunities for women in the male-dominated cannabis industry, and the future of hemp beverages in relation to CPG and recreational cannabis.

Lisa shares insights on how Happi balances wellness and social drinking, the innovative ingredient profiles in their beverages, and the importance of diversity in the cannabis space. In this conversation, Lisa discusses the development and marketing of THC beverages, emphasizing consumer feedback in product formulation, the importance of understanding beverage consumption patterns, and the evolving landscape of functional THC drinks.

She highlights the challenges and strategies in supply chain management, the dynamics of marketplace partnerships, and her vision for the future of the brand, focusing on strategic partnerships and market expansion.

Takeaways

Lisa Hurwitz is the president and co-founder of Happy, a low-dose THC beverage brand.
Living in Nicaragua has inspired Lisa's approach to flavor and wellness in her products.
The cannabis industry still faces challenges regarding gender diversity and support for women.
Happy's consumer base is predominantly women, and the brand is designed with them in mind.
The hemp beverage market is evolving and could fit into a regulatory framework similar to alcohol.
Happy aims to replace weekday drinking occasions traditionally filled by alcohol.
The brand focuses on creating beverages that are both functional and social.
Lisa's background in CPG and regulated cannabis informs her approach to product development.
Happy's innovative ingredient profiles include cannabinoids like CBG and CBN for wellness benefits.
The future of hemp beverages looks promising as they become more mainstream. Consumer feedback is crucial for product development.
Understanding daily beverage consumption patterns can inform product offerings.
THC beverages can serve both energizing and relaxing purposes.
The cannabis beverage market is still in its early stages.
Supply chain efficiency is key to maintaining competitive pricing.
Direct-to-consumer models are gaining traction in the beverage industry.
Marketplace partnerships can enhance brand visibility but come with challenges.
The future of THC beverages looks promising with potential for growth.
Strategic partnerships can facilitate rapid growth and distribution.
The cannabis industry is evolving with new business models emerging.

Summary

In this episode of the Free Spirits podcast, Lars Miller and David Gonzalez interview Brandon Harshberger, the president of Cheech & Chong's Global Holdings. They discuss the expansive operations of the company, which includes various cannabis products and beverages. Brandon shares his journey into the cannabis industry, the importance of building a strong team, and the challenges faced when entering the beverage market. The conversation also delves into marketing strategies, logistics, and the significance of data-driven decision-making in their operations. Brandon emphasizes the brand's commitment to longevity and the unique position they hold in the cannabis space.

In this episode of the Free Spirits podcast, host Lars Miller and co-host David Gonzalez engage with Art Massolo, VP of Business Development at Cycling Frog, a leading THC beverage brand. They explore Art's journey into the cannabis beverage industry, the lessons learned from the wine industry, and the evolution of THC beverages. The conversation delves into the brand story of Cycling Frog, market trends, consumer preferences, and the unique business strategies that have propelled the brand's growth. Art shares insights on vertical integration, direct-to-consumer models, and the challenges faced in the THC beverage industry. The episode concludes with a vision for the future of THC beverages and Cycling Frog's role in that landscape.

Takeaways

Cycling Frog is redefining how we relax and socialize.
Art Massolo's journey into the THC beverage industry was driven by a passion for health and wellness.
The wine industry offers valuable lessons for the THC beverage market.
Consumer preferences are shifting towards lower dosage THC beverages.
Direct-to-consumer sales account for a significant portion of Cycling Frog's revenue.
Vertical integration allows Cycling Frog to control costs and maintain quality.
Partnerships with local brands, like the Portland Pickles, help normalize THC beverages.
The cannabis industry is evolving, with potential for collaboration between hemp and marijuana sectors.
Regulatory challenges continue to impact the THC beverage market.
The future of THC beverages includes a broader acceptance and integration into mainstream culture.

Summary

In this episode of the Free Spirits podcast, host Lars Miller and co-host David Gonzalez interview Jason Dayton, co-founder of Trail Magic, a rapidly growing THC beverage brand in Minnesota. Jason shares his journey from cider making to launching Trail Magic, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the cannabis beverage industry. The conversation delves into the risks and rewards of entering a new market, the importance of consumer preferences, and the strategies for building a successful brand. Jason emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the future vision for Trail Magic as a leader in the cannabis beverage space.

Summary

In this episode, Lars Miller and David Gonzalez interview Aaron Naschbich, the founder of Brēz, a fast-growing THC and functional beverage brand.

Aaron shares his background as an entrepreneur and marketer, and how it led him to create Brēz. The brand story behind Brēz is about providing a better alternative to alcohol, allowing people to feel better without feeling worse.

Building in public has been beneficial for Brēz, as it has allowed them to receive support and solutions from the community. However, there have also been drawbacks, such as jealousy and copycats. When it comes to managing the cash flow, Brēz focuses on strategic investments that facilitate growth and maintains a disassociation from the emotional attachment to money.

In this conversation, Aaron Nosbisch, the CEO of Brēz, discusses the challenges and strategies for growing a THC beverage brand. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on what's working and making strategic investments in new opportunities. He also highlights the need for clear communication and education to overcome the stigma associated with THC and mushrooms.

Aaron advises launching a brand with a strong product and a creative business model that differentiates from competitors. He envisions Brēz becoming the largest functional beverage in the world, valued at tens or hundreds of billions of dollars, while remaining aligned with its mission to reduce human suffering and maximize human potential.