Chris Violas Breaks Down Blaze’s Software Infrastructure
12/12/24 • 52 min
Software is unique: when it works as it should, no one thinks twice about it. But the moment there’s a hiccup or delay, it becomes an issue.
Building software that consistently runs seamlessly, while integrating additional features to create an “all-in-one” solution that’s easy to use? That’s nearly impossible.
Kudos to Chris Violas and the Blaze team for achieving just that. Leveraging his AWS background, Chris has created a software environment that boasts an impressive 99.1% customer satisfaction score.
The infrastructure may not be the sexiest part of software, but it’s the foundation everything else is built on. Much like adding a second level to a house, it can either be a smooth process or a massive headache, depending on the strength of the foundation.
This week, we sit down with Chris Violas to discuss:
- What most people don’t know about software in cannabis.
- Infrastructure and the connection to customer success.
- Acquisitions, ecosystems, and the evolution of “all-in-one” solutions.
About Blaze:
A complete cannabis software suite designed to streamline and scale dispensary operations. BLAZE powers every aspect of your retail business with an intuitive point-of-sale, advanced inventory management, built-in loyalty, native e-commerce, and integrated cashless payments. Our goal is to provide a cohesive ecosystem that allows dispensaries to offer an exceptional shopping experience for customers.
when we talk mission critical infrastructure, like our system, like it's not okay just to have a lag. We have someone in front of the point of sale, like literally pushing buttons and wanting to check out. And so there's just no space for issues.
it's nice to have a storefront, but the reality is it is like 80% more efficient on so many levels to fulfill an online order than to have someone walk around with someone in store and hold their hand.
Key Topics Discussed
Chris's Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:35)
- Started in college after breaking his wrist
- Launched a dispensary with his father during senior year
- Transitioned to technology after realizing software could solve operational challenges
Blaze's Technology Infrastructure (00:08:29)
- Focus on mission-critical, stable infrastructure
- Designed with redundancy and performance in mind
- Separating production and reporting databases
Compliance and Innovation Challenges (00:23:22)
- Navigating state-by-state regulatory variations
- Developing solutions like Metric Retail ID for product serialization
- Potential time and cost savings for retailers
Payment and E-commerce Strategies (00:49:51)
- Pushing towards more efficient online ordering
- Improving average order value through e-commerce
- Exploring payment solutions in different markets
Social Impact Initiative (00:42:23)
- Launching Blaze Cares partnership with SickKids Hospital in Canada
- Implementing donation roundup program for retailers
Guest Links:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisviolas/
- https://www.blaze.me/
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/goblaze/
- https://x.com/blazecannabis
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1ag_Kpjm6G8IAOaK8iTcIA
Our Links
At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.
8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain
The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast
The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.
The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast
Sign up for our playbook here:
🎥 YouTube: The Dime
📸 Instagram: The Dime
Software is unique: when it works as it should, no one thinks twice about it. But the moment there’s a hiccup or delay, it becomes an issue.
Building software that consistently runs seamlessly, while integrating additional features to create an “all-in-one” solution that’s easy to use? That’s nearly impossible.
Kudos to Chris Violas and the Blaze team for achieving just that. Leveraging his AWS background, Chris has created a software environment that boasts an impressive 99.1% customer satisfaction score.
The infrastructure may not be the sexiest part of software, but it’s the foundation everything else is built on. Much like adding a second level to a house, it can either be a smooth process or a massive headache, depending on the strength of the foundation.
This week, we sit down with Chris Violas to discuss:
- What most people don’t know about software in cannabis.
- Infrastructure and the connection to customer success.
- Acquisitions, ecosystems, and the evolution of “all-in-one” solutions.
About Blaze:
A complete cannabis software suite designed to streamline and scale dispensary operations. BLAZE powers every aspect of your retail business with an intuitive point-of-sale, advanced inventory management, built-in loyalty, native e-commerce, and integrated cashless payments. Our goal is to provide a cohesive ecosystem that allows dispensaries to offer an exceptional shopping experience for customers.
when we talk mission critical infrastructure, like our system, like it's not okay just to have a lag. We have someone in front of the point of sale, like literally pushing buttons and wanting to check out. And so there's just no space for issues.
it's nice to have a storefront, but the reality is it is like 80% more efficient on so many levels to fulfill an online order than to have someone walk around with someone in store and hold their hand.
Key Topics Discussed
Chris's Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:35)
- Started in college after breaking his wrist
- Launched a dispensary with his father during senior year
- Transitioned to technology after realizing software could solve operational challenges
Blaze's Technology Infrastructure (00:08:29)
- Focus on mission-critical, stable infrastructure
- Designed with redundancy and performance in mind
- Separating production and reporting databases
Compliance and Innovation Challenges (00:23:22)
- Navigating state-by-state regulatory variations
- Developing solutions like Metric Retail ID for product serialization
- Potential time and cost savings for retailers
Payment and E-commerce Strategies (00:49:51)
- Pushing towards more efficient online ordering
- Improving average order value through e-commerce
- Exploring payment solutions in different markets
Social Impact Initiative (00:42:23)
- Launching Blaze Cares partnership with SickKids Hospital in Canada
- Implementing donation roundup program for retailers
Guest Links:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisviolas/
- https://www.blaze.me/
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/goblaze/
- https://x.com/blazecannabis
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1ag_Kpjm6G8IAOaK8iTcIA
Our Links
At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.
8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain
The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast
The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.
The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast
Sign up for our playbook here:
🎥 YouTube: The Dime
📸 Instagram: The Dime
Previous Episode
First Mover Secrets with Colin Keeler: How Kiva’s Edibles Cover 80% of the U.S
Kiva's products now reach 80% of the U.S. population.
Think about that for a second.
It’s a testament to how far the cannabis industry has come and the progress being made.
But, as with anything in the cannabis space, there are complexities, caveats, and unique challenges.
For instance, in some markets, consumers can access products directly through D2C channels or dispensaries. While these channels can complement each other and drive brand loyalty, the rise of D2C may also create tension with retailers, who were once the sole point of purchase.
This week, we sit down with Colin Keeler to break it all down and discuss:
- Hemp & Cannabis Strategy
- Minor cannabinoids they are testing
- Innovations & Consumer Preferences
Guest Links
- https://www.kivaconfections.com/
- https://shopkivaconfections.com/
- https://x.com/kivaconfections
- https://www.instagram.com/madebykiva/
Chapters:
- Introduction and Guest Background (00:00:00) - Bryan Fields introduces Colin Keeler from Kiva, and they discuss Colin's background. Colin shares his journey from investment banking to the cannabis industry, including a brief stint in psychedelic biotech.
- Kiva's Business Development Strategy (00:02:18) - Colin explains Kiva's approach to expanding into new markets, focusing on their strategy of targeting sizeable markets, working with partners, and being an early mover in different states.
- Product Innovation and Market Expansion (00:08:14) - The discussion centers on Kiva's product-led approach, highlighting their innovations in edibles like chocolate bars, gummies, and their focus on effects-driven products.
- Hemp Market Exploration (00:14:31) - Colin discusses Kiva's entry into the hemp market, explaining their cautious approach and how they're navigating the different regulatory landscapes across states.
- Pricing and Distribution Challenges (00:26:46) - The conversation explores the complexities of pricing in cannabis and hemp markets, including the challenges of maintaining consistent pricing across different states.
- Innovation and Future Outlook (00:33:09) - Colin talks about Kiva's focus on innovation, particularly around dosage, minor cannabinoids, and creating products that meet consumer wellness needs.
- Rapid-Fire Questions (00:42:05) - The hosts ask Colin a series of quick, fun questions about his dream smoking session, unique perspectives, and predictions for the edible market.
Our Links
At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.
8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain
The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast
The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.
The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast
Sign up for our playbook here:
🎥 YouTube: The Dime
📸 Instagram: The Dime
Next Episode
Hard Questions for Cannabis Founders: Tony Schor on Creative Capital and M&A Strategies
Partnerships are more critical in cannabis than in many other industries.
The line between success and failure is razor-thin, and most companies don’t have the resources to recover from a failed “marriage.”
One of the unique and beautiful challenges of the cannabis industry is the emotional connection founders have with their businesses. Much like a parent’s love for a child, founders tend to see only the good, often downplaying potential downsides.
The ability to stay grounded, ask the hard questions, and—most importantly—be culturally and mentally prepared to discuss a “marriage” with another group is daunting.
When conversations about capital or potential acquisitions arise, it’s easy to overvalue a business internally. Founders know the countless hours and effort that went into building it, which can cloud judgment about its true market value.
This week we sit down with Tony Schor to discuss:
- Where partnerships fail.
- Creative ways cannabis companies are securing capital.
- Where people are investing in the cannabis industry.
Episode Highlights
Cannabis Industry Insights (00:01:25)
- Discussion of cannabis industry legacy
- Importance of partnerships in industry growth
- East Coast vs. West Coast cannabis market dynamics
Mergers & Acquisitions Deep Dive (00:02:53)
- Challenges of cannabis M&A transactions
- Importance of cultural fit in partnerships
- Strategies for finding the right manufacturing and brand partnerships
Capital and Technology in Cannabis (00:37:47)
- Technology as the hottest investment area in cannabis
- Challenges of raising capital in the industry
- Cross-industry interest in cannabis opportunities
Cannabis Hall of Fame (00:47:33)
- Tony's role as chairman
- Plans for a 13,000 sq. ft. immersive exhibit at Planet 13 in Las Vegas
- Goal of destigmatizing cannabis through education and recognition
About Tony Schor
Tony Schor is an accomplished leader and President of Chicago-based Strategic Intro / Investor Awareness, Inc. (Founded in 1994). He is currently offering strategic advisory work and Mergers & Acquisitions opportunities representing both Buyers and Sellers of Cannabis assets in several verticals throughout the country in key markets. He is a highly valued resource to his clients.
Tony also represents numerous award-winning cannabis brands, as well as continues to secure partnerships with access to brands, cannabis operational businesses and conditional licenses across the United States in both mature and limited markets. Tony Schor was asked in 2023 to become Chairman of the Cannabis Hall of Fame.
Guest Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-schor-98a4391/
Our Links
At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.
8th Revolution Cannabinoid Playbook is an Industry-leading report covering the entire cannabis supply chain
The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast
The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.
The Dime is a top 50 Cannabis Podcast
Sign up for our playbook here:
🎥 YouTube: The Dime
📸 Instagram: The Dime
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