“We have a lot of work to do to start to reintroduce society as a whole to the idea that cannabis can be a part of our daily life without it being completely monumentally destructive because it never has been, and it never will be.” - Samuel Richard
In this episode, Shayda Torabi is joined by Samuel Richard of Arizona Dispensary Association as they discuss an interesting perspective of cannabis – that it should be boring. Samuel argues that this theme encompasses the effective ways to address the politics and destructive societal views of the plant. Listen as he shares how to get involved towards noteworthy progress through the advocacy.
[00:01 – 10:59] Navigating the Waters of Cannabis Legalization Amidst the Noise
[11:00 – 15:33] The Advocacy of Cannabis Should Be Boring and How to be Involved
[15:34 – 21:34] How We Can Get Involved and Make an Impact as Consumers
[21:35 – 40:18] The Cannabis Landscape in Arizona and the Current Brand Loyalty Stage
[40:19 – 56:22] Taking Action in the Boring Theme Advocacy for Notable Progress
[56:23 – 57:44] Food for Thought: Do you think cannabis should be boring?
Samuel is known for his strategic thinking and development of complex government affairs, communications, and media plans. He approaches every problem with an open mind, patience, and empathy. Samuel has a degree in nonprofit leadership and management from Arizona State University’s College of Public Service and Community Solutions, is a Fellow of the Flinn-Brown Civic Leadership Academy, and holds certificates from both Valley Leadership and the Center for Progressive Leadership. Samuel was recently recognized by the Arizona Capitol Times in its inaugural Breakouts Award highlighting “the sharpest political minds in the state,” and has previously been recognized in the Phoenix New Times’ Best of Phoenix as Best Lobbyist and by the Phoenix Business Journal as a member of the 2013 class of Forty under 40.
Connect with Samuel
Visit https://azdispensaries.org/ to see the efforts dedicated to advancing the Arizona cannabis industry through political advocacy, public education, and professionalization.
Shayda Torabi has been called one of the most influential Women in WordPress and now she’s one of the women leading the cannabis reformation conversation building one of Texas’ premier CBD brands. She's currently the CEO and Co-Founder of RESTART CBD, a female-run education first CBD wellness brand. And has formerly held marketing positions at WP Engine and WebDevStudios. Shayda is the host of a podcast for cannabis marketers called To Be Blunt, where she interviews top cannabis brands on their most successful marketing initiatives. When Shayda's not building her cannabiz in Texas, you can find her on the road exploring the best hikes and spots for vegan ice cream. Follow Shayda at @theshaydatorabi
Key Quotes:
“It's a helpful argument to remind them [the lawmakers] that if they restrict access to cannabis, they're restricting the income to the general fund.” - Samuel Richard
“If someone comes up to you and asks, ‘How can I get involved?’ I think one of the best ways to do that is to just come out as a cannabis consumer.” - Samuel Richard
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095 Cannabis Should Be Boring with Samuel Richard of Arizona Dispensary Association