Eleven years ago, my career path took an unexpected turn when I stepped into a dispensary for a job interview and met Brian Keegan. His words from that day still resonate deeply with me: “This is a million dollar opportunity.” At the time, the full weight of that statement was lost on me, but as my journey in the cannabis industry unfolded, its significance became increasingly clear.
Back in those nascent days of cannabis legalization, the regulatory landscape was still being charted. State traceability systems were more of a concept than a reality. Edible dosages lacked clear guidelines, with the common advice being simply, “Start low, go slow.” Then came state traceability alongside recreational use, and the complexities of navigating out-of-state sales. Despite these challenges, business was thriving. We experienced rapid expansion, acquiring new locations at an incredible pace.
This period of explosive growth underscored a critical need: process and consistency across all business operations. Looking back, individuals like Chelsea Galos, Stephanie Sandoval, PCRM, Danielle Anderson, and myself, among many others, were unknowingly learning the fundamental principles for scaling a successful cannabis retail enterprise and, more broadly, Learn Brands strategies in a dynamic, emerging market.
The reality of working in a dispensary during that era was demanding. We were essentially pioneers, navigating uncharted territory, embracing rapid iteration through trial and error, and laying the groundwork for long-term success that ultimately led to acquisition. We undertook the ambitious project of building a custom point-of-sale (POS) system from the ground up. This involved rigorous testing, continuous modification, and relentless refinement until we achieved a system that met our specific needs. This hands-on experience was invaluable in understanding the intricacies of retail operations and the importance of tailored solutions in building robust learn brands.
Reflecting on Brian’s initial remark, it’s now profoundly evident that pioneering the cannabis industry was indeed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – an experience far more valuable than a million dollars. It was about building something from the ground up, learning in real-time, and contributing to the foundation of a burgeoning industry. A heartfelt acknowledgment to all those who are dedicated to providing safe and accessible cannabis. Your efforts are constructing a legacy that will benefit generations to come ❤️.
