From Biopharma to Cannabis:The Intersection of Pharma and Pot with Seth Yakatan

02/14/24 • 44 min

In this episode of CannaBiz Conversations, host Sean Welsh interviews Seth Yakatan, a prominent figure in the cannabis industry. Seth shares his cannabis origin story, recounting how he first discovered the plant in college and later realized its therapeutic potential through his work in the biopharmaceutical industry. He discusses his fascination with GW Pharmaceuticals, a company that successfully transformed cannabis into an FDA-regulated medicine. This engaging conversation sheds light on the journey that led Seth to become a respected figure in the cannabis space.
[00:03:17] Late bloomer and cannabis use.

[00:04:18] Cannabis use and legality.

[00:09:03] Investment strategy and failures.

[00:13:57] Frustration and finding success.

[00:19:18] Cannabis industry's future and challenges.

[00:20:48] Challenges in the cannabis industry.

[00:24:12] Social justice inequality in cannabis.

[00:29:17] Cannabis legalization and conspiracy theories.

[00:32:25] Sensitization of cannabis with kids.

[00:35:42] Authenticity and LinkedIn growth.

[00:38:48] Using social media for business.

[00:42:49] Honest voices in the industry.

Subscribe and share this episode with someone who loves the CannaBiz!

[00:04:18] Cannabis use and legality.

[00:09:03] Investment strategy and failures.

[00:13:57] Frustration and finding success.

[00:19:18] Cannabis industry's future and challenges.

[00:20:48] Challenges in the cannabis industry.

[00:24:12] Social justice inequality in cannabis.

[00:29:17] Cannabis legalization and conspiracy theories.

[00:32:25] Sensitization of cannabis with kids.

[00:35:42] Authenticity and LinkedIn growth.

[00:38:48] Using social media for business.

[00:42:49] Honest voices in the industry.

Subscribe and share this episode with someone who loves the CannaBiz!

Previous Episode

A Conversation with Jeffrey Hoffman: Vertical Integration and Licensing in the New York Cannabis Industry

In this episode of CannaBiz Conversations, host Sean Welsh is joined by Jeffrey Hoffman, a prominent cannabis attorney in New York. They discuss the recent retail application period in New York and the opportunities it presents for those interested in the cannabis industry. They delve into the unique and equitable implementation of the cannabis law in New York, with a focus on providing opportunities to individuals who have traditionally been marginalized. Tune in to learn more about the application process and the efforts being made to create a fair and inclusive cannabis market in New York.
[00:01:21] Equitable implementation of cannabis law.

[00:04:00] Vertical integration in cannabis.

[00:10:29] Transition and career transformation.

[00:12:26] Expungement laws and judicial issues.

[00:18:00] The filibuster rule.

[00:19:31] Senate filibuster rule and cannabis legalization.

[00:23:52] Tax revenue discussion and small businesses.

[00:26:55] The fix for the illicit market.

[00:28:23] Taking down illicit stores.

[00:31:56] Cannabis industry equity.

[00:36:51] Red states and tribal nations.

[00:38:05] Unscheduling cannabis.

[00:41:04] Cannabis cultivation and community.

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Next Episode

The Power of the Mastermind in the Cannabis Industry: Willie McKenzie's Transition from the Black Market to Regulated Growth

In this episode of CannaBiz Conversations, host Sean Welsh interviews Willie McKenzie, a prominent figure in the cannabis industry. Willie shares his origin story, revealing his involvement in cannabis since the late 90s, from selling weed in high school to becoming an outdoor cultivator in the regulated market. Willie's transition from the legacy side to the legalized side in California and his move to Michigan is also discussed. Tune in to learn more about Willie's journey and his insights on the industry.
[00:02:29] Outdoor cultivation in Michigan.

[00:06:19] No remediation and high-quality flower.

[00:07:34] Mold in food and testing.

[00:11:31] Early stages of medical cannabis.

[00:15:16] Starting a business in Michigan.

[00:19:17] Mental health and addiction.

[00:20:48] Managing addiction and excess.

[00:24:24] Addiction and mental health.

[00:27:50] Addiction to social media.

[00:29:59] Blowing up content distribution.

[00:33:08] Mental health and work-life balance.

[00:36:04] Micromanagement and employee turnover.

[00:40:43] Marketing in the cannabis space.