Matt Robertson is joined by Ryan Connolly, founder of Grassroots clothing, to share the origin story of his company and how it started as a documentary film about California's cannabis culture, but pivoted to merchandise when faced with challenges.
Ryan discusses navigating the evolving legal landscape, the impact of COVID-19, and building a community through collaborations with artists and musicians. He recounts memorable moments, like smoking with Method Man and the legal battle over his "Break Room" smoking lounge. Throughout, Ryan emphasizes the importance of adaptability, staying true to Grassroots' counterculture roots, and fostering strong relationships with his team and customers.
Also in this episode:
- Grassroots started as a documentary film about California's cannabis culture, before pivoting to merchandise when faced with challenges.
- Ryan has built strong relationships and collaborations with artists, musicians, and counterculture figures like Method Man.
- Navigating the legal landscape, especially around cannabis-related businesses, has presented ongoing challenges for Grassroots.
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Grassroots, forcing them to adapt by downsizing retail and focusing on their online presence.
- Community and staying true to Grassroots' counterculture roots are central to Ryan's approach, as evidenced by initiatives like the "Break Room" smoking lounge.
- Ryan emphasizes the importance of adaptability, innovation, and fostering a strong team and customer relationships as keys to Grassroots' success.
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About Matt Roberston
Matt Robertson is a visionary artist who has made a significant mark in the glass art world with his unique matte-finished caricature sculptures, each reflecting pivotal moments from his life. His playful spirit shines through in his whimsical glass animal sculptures, often depicted in humorous scenarios that embody his vibrant personality. Inspired by creatures like giraffes, Robertson is captivated by the challenges of working with glass, a delicate medium that demands intense focus and energy, which he channels into his art. Each piece captures a dynamic energy, freezing it in time and offering a glimpse into his imaginative universe. After discovering his passion for glassblowing at Sheridan College in Ontario, he honed his craft in Eugene, Oregon, before returning to Canada to co-founded the Edy Roy Glass Gallery, a pioneering space that merges high art with functional glass pipes. Now based in Evergreen, Colorado, Robertson continues to evolve as a glass artist while hosting "The Robertson Stash" podcast and showcasing his work in galleries worldwide, all while advocating for contemporary glass art and its vibrant possibilities.
Smoking with Method Man and Building a Counterculture Empire | feat. Ryan Connolly - Grassroots Clothing FounderPopular Podcasts
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