100 A Decade of MMJ & Recreational Marijuana Experience with Eric Leslie of Cheeba Chews

“Your ability to respond, your resiliency to find new avenues that aren't existent is what allows you to sustain in an industry and to create a legacy that will last forever.” - Eric Leslie

Welcome back to the To Be Blunt podcast! In this episode, Shayda Torabi welcomes Eric Leslie, CMO of Cheeba Chews, to reflect on the brand's journey over the past decade and how it evolved in response to the changing legal parameters for cannabis and the dosage and tolerance of their products. As the edible industry began to standardize, Cheeba Chews continue to be the pioneer brand and a driving force for innovation.

[00:01 – 07:32] Thank You for 100 Episodes of To Be Blunt

[07:33 – 22:41] Setting the Standard for Cannabis Edibles

[22:42 – 29:42] Establishing Brand Identity While Navigating Different State Regulations

[29:43- 35:15] Fighting for a Position in a Saturated Market

[35:16 - 55:25] The Challenge of Marketing Medical Use and the Internal Politics in the Business Community

[55:26 – 1:00:41] The Future with Minor Cannabinoids

Eric Leslie uses an entrepreneurial mindset and years of diverse media expertise to grow Cheeba Chews legacy as one of the most recognizable edible companies in the industry. As the jack-of-all-trades Chief Marketing Officer for the company, Eric’s expertise in video production, client relations, product design and sales helps build the integrity and innovation of the brand as it moves forward into a rapidly expanding cannabis marketplace. Eric came to Cheeba Chews by way of his own production company, which he founded after starting his career as a web developer for boutique marketing companies. Whether he’s creating a new logo and SKU or managing contractors and licensees, Eric takes pride in tackling many different challenges and fostering a passionate, emotional connection to his work. Outside of taking care of his family of colleagues, he enjoys spending time with his wife and kids while getting active outside. 

Connect with Eric Leslie!

Head over to the Cheeba Chews website and follow them on Instagram.

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 Quote:

“You have to adapt how you position yourself in every single market while still trying to find this anchor of identity for yourself across all of those markets. This is who we are. But in this market, you're going to see that you're going to have a slightly different experience based off of what those regulations are for you.” - Eric Leslie

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