Welcome back to The Canna Boss Babes Podcast! Today, I’m joined by the dynamic duo behind Blunt Strategies, Leili Fatehi and Laura Monn Ginsburg, who are shaping the future of cannabis policy in Minnesota. Together, they’ve helped craft the innovative “Minnesota Model,” an equitable and community-centered approach to cannabis legalization and business development.
From their work advocating for legalization to their efforts to create opportunities for small businesses and underserved communities, Leili and Laura share the journey of turning their passion into impactful action.
What We Covered in This Episode:
The Origin of Blunt Strategies
- Leili and Laura’s unique partnership, built on years of friendship and a shared desire to leave traditional career paths for meaningful work.
- Their transition from political consulting to cannabis advocacy, starting with the legalization of adult-use cannabis in Minnesota.
The Fight for Legalization in Minnesota
- Navigating the complexities of Minnesota’s deeply purple political landscape, where legalization required legislative action instead of a ballot initiative.
- Collaborating with grassroots advocates, community leaders, and legislators to gain support for legalization.
- How Governor Tim Walz’s recent campaign set the stage for real progress by prioritizing equity and the repair of harms caused by prohibition.
Creating the “Minnesota Model”
- Focusing on small business ecosystems to lower barriers for entry and prevent large MSOs from dominating the market.
- Working with industrial hemp farmers and legacy cannabis entrepreneurs to establish an equitable and localized industry.
- Simplifying the application process to eliminate the need for expensive consultants, making opportunities more accessible for underrepresented communities.
Social Equity and Industry Challenges
- Addressing systemic barriers like predatory partnerships and lack of education that often hinder equity programs.
- Creating pathways for small businesses and underserved communities through education, advocacy, and resources like the Minnesota Women’s Cannabis Business Network.
- Ensuring the hemp-derived THC market provides a runway for social equity businesses to build capital and brand recognition.
What’s Next for Blunt Strategies
- Launching the Blunt Strategies Grow House, a venture studio designed to incubate localized and collaborative cannabis businesses.
- Building a women’s investor circle to empower female entrepreneurs and create generational wealth within Minnesota’s cannabis industry.
- Expanding advocacy efforts to include psychedelic medicine and other progressive policies to support Minnesota communities.
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