060 Navigating Cannabis Technology, Integrations, and METRC with Justin Lipchitz of Realistic Consulting

Welcome back to the To Be Blunt podcast! In this episode, Shayda Torabi chats with Justin Lipchitz about the nuances of the cannabis regulations, especially its interpretation, the predatory nature of cannabis consultants, THC and CBD technology, and so much more!

[00:01 – 14:29] Justin’s Background and Consulting is a 4-Letter Word in the Industry

[14:30 – 26:09] Regulation in Oregon Today and the Value METRC Serves in the Industry

[26:10 – 34:34] Problems That New Tech is Trying to Solve

[34:35 – 52:34] What’s Happening With Technology for THC & CBD

[52:35 – 1:05:08]  Regulation Ambiguity and Be Guided by Industry Experts

[1:05:09 – 1:08:04] Food For Thought

Justin Lipchitz has been leading teams in different facets of the Service Industry for over 15 years. During the beginning of his career, Justin led teams in fast-paced, upscale restaurants on the East Coast. Justin then switched gears, entering into retail as the General Manager at Wonderland Glass Galleries.

He came to Portland with dreams of cannabis, looking to join a dynamic team, and established himself at Oregon’s Finest. As Store Manager then General Manager, he helped opened their second retail location and a distribution company, Movement Cannabis. His reputation and experience earned him a coveted position on the Oregon METRC User Focus Group, helping implement system changes and improving overall usage for all licensees. Moving through the challenging regulations of the recreational market, he was able to adapt quickly and advance the ever-changing landscape of the market.

Now with Realistic, Justin brings his multifaceted abilities and expertise to help the entire industry.

Connect with Justin on Instagram @justineatsweed and visit his website https://realistic.biz/

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:

“I try not to use the word consultant because it's a four-letter word in our industry. Everybody wants to get in, they try to take whatever skill set they have from whatever industry they come from, and they're trying to apply it to cannabis.” - Justin Lipchitz

“Having a realistic view of what's going on is always the most important thing.” - Justin Lipchitz

SPONSORSHIP is brought to you by Restart CBD. Check them out for your CBD needs!

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