Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis

In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Nicole Ricci, licensed New York cannabis microbusiness operator and President of New York Small Farma, for an in-depth conversation about the realities of cultivating cannabis in one of the country's most complex regulated markets. Drawing on decades of cultivation experience and a unique background as a former U.S. State Department negotiator, Nicole shares her journey into legal cannabis and explains how her passion for environmental stewardship, social equity, and small-scale agriculture led her to become one of New York's leading advocates for craft cannabis growers. The discussion explores the challenges facing microbusinesses, including regulatory burdens, capital requirements, wholesale pricing, compliance, and the ongoing struggle to build a viable market for independent cultivators. Nicole also offers thoughtful perspectives on the future of cannabis policy in New York, the importance of collaboration between regulators and industry, and why supporting small farmers will be essential to creating a sustainable, equitable, and environmentally responsible cannabis industry.

Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev Media.

Please contact us at herb.jointsession@gmail.com if you have any questions or comments, including topics to cover.

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