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In this episode of Grow Sessions, host Mark Doherty sits down with Mikhail Sagal, CEO of TSRgrow, for “Growing Smarter: Getting More from Every Watt with Intelligent Grow Lighting,” a conversation about how intelligent grow lighting, remote power, data, and automation are helping cultivators make smarter decisions across the entire facility. Mark and Mikhail discuss how centralized power and connected lighting systems can improve reliability, simplify maintenance, provide greater visibility into energy use, and support more precise lighting strategies. They also dive into under-canopy, side, and 360-degree lighting, including how redistributing light throughout the plant can improve uniformity, yield, and labor efficiency—while still requiring the right HVAC, dehumidification, irrigation, and electrical infrastructure to support increased plant demand. The conversation also looks at the bigger shift happening across cultivation: moving away from simply building bigger and adding more equipment toward smarter facility design, better system integration, data-driven decisions, and long-term profitability. Tune in to hear where intelligent grow lighting is headed next—and what it really means to get more from every watt. About Mikhail Sagal Mikhail Sagal is the Co-Founder and CEO of TSRgrow, a global cultivation technology company where intelligent LED lighting, remote power, and integrated cultivation software come together to help commercial cultivators achieve greater precision, efficiency, and consistency. Under Mikhail's leadership, TSRgrow has developed a connected cultivation platform that transforms lighting from a standalone fixture into a source of real-time data and precision environmental control. By integrating intelligent LED lighting, remote power servers, and their GROWHub software platform, TSRgrow helps cultivators improve consistency, reduce operating costs, optimize plant performance, and increase profitability. Mikhail brings more than 16 years of experience in LED horticultural lighting and is the inventor of 33 issued patents. Before co-founding TSRgrow in 2009, he spent 13 years developing and commercializing thermally conductive plastics, an experience that shaped his innovative approach to LED thermal management and cultivation system engineering. A frequent speaker at industry conferences throughout North America and Europe, Mikhail shares insights on cultivation technology, facility design, energy management, and the future of intelligent cultivation technology. He is passionate about helping cultivators leverage connected technologies to drive greater efficiency, consistency, and long-term success. If you’d like to connect with Mikhail, please email him at [email protected].  Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the VP of Construction & Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in CEA and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Exec. VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. TSRgrow is an AgTech company specializing in intelligent lighting solutions for commercial cultivation. Their systems combine advanced LED lighting, centralized remote power technology, and the GROWHub control platform to give growers precise control over environment, energy use, and crop performance. Built for scale, TSRgrow helps cultivation facilities improve consistency, reduce operational complexity, and maximize efficiency from canopy to harvest. Visit TSRgrow at www.tsrgrow.com. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

What works in a craft grow doesn’t always survive commercial scale. In this episode of Grow Sessions, host Mark Doherty speaks with Deron Caplan about the most common—and costly—mistakes in scaling cultivation operations. They break down why commercial facilities fail when HVAC systems are oversized and poorly balanced, how lighting decisions can unintentionally spike latent load and humidity stress, and why genetics often break down when too many strains are forced into uniform environmental conditions. The conversation also explores the operational gaps that emerge at scale: when cultivation leaders are expected to act as facility engineers, when preventative maintenance is missing, and when data like VWC, EC, and dry-back are not used to steer crops in real time. Finally, they discuss the post-harvest bottleneck—where even a successful grow can lose value if drying and curing capacity cannot keep pace. 🎙️ Listen now and subscribe to Grow Sessions for more conversations with the experts shaping modern controlled environment cultivation. Deron Caplan, Sostanza Global Deron is a Sr. Consultant with Sostanza Inc., where he has designed more than 50 cannabis facilities over the past decade and supported many more cultivators already in operation. He earned North America’s first Ph.D. focused on indoor cannabis production before leading operations at the Kelowna Research Station—the world’s first facility dedicated to advancing cannabis cultivation techniques and systems. He later served as Director of Research and Development at The Flowr Corporation, managing a team of scientists and operators and collaborating closely with The Hawthorne Gardening Company, a subsidiary of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company. Deron has been cited more than 500 times in scientific literature, has provided expert commentary on cannabis production to major media outlets and the Government of Canada, and also serves as an expert witness in cannabis-related court cases. If you’d like to connect with Deron, please email him at [email protected]. Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the VP of Construction & Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in CEA and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Exec. VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. TSRgrow is an AgTech company specializing in intelligent lighting solutions for commercial cultivation. Their systems combine advanced LED lighting, centralized remote power technology, and the GROWHub control platform to give growers precise control over environment, energy use, and crop performance. Built for scale, TSRgrow helps cultivation facilities improve consistency, reduce operational complexity, and maximize efficiency from canopy to harvest. Visit TSRgrow at www.tsrgrow.com. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, Live Long and Process: GMP & the Future of Cultivation, Mark Doherty sits down with Darwin Millard—known as the “Spock of the industry”—to explore how GMP, consistency, and systems-based thinking are shaping not just today’s operations, but the future direction of cultivation and processing as the industry matures. With a mechanical engineering background and a “cold and logical” approach, Darwin applies disciplined thinking to processing, summed up in his mantra: “Live long and process.” The episode covers the shift toward standardized, data-driven production and why solventless extraction is becoming a benchmark for purity and consistency in an increasingly quality-driven market. A major focus is facility design under GMP and GACP frameworks, and why even advanced operations still fail microbial standards due to avoidable design flaws like airflow, HVAC layout, and poor clean-room planning. Darwin outlines what true clean-room thinking requires—from non-porous materials to sanitation-first construction. Looking ahead, the conversation expands into what the next generation of cultivation will look like: more automated environments, tighter environmental control, real-time data monitoring, and increased alignment with pharmaceutical manufacturing standards. As markets mature, Darwin explains how operators who embrace repeatable systems, validation, and certification will be best positioned for scalability and long-term viability, while those relying on legacy methods will struggle to keep pace. The conversation also explores global regulatory pressures and how operators can navigate evolving compliance expectations while bridging pharma-grade rigor with emerging industry frameworks. Third-party certification is highlighted as a key strategy for future-proofing operations. To close, Darwin breaks down the economics of compliance—arguing that proactive investment in safety systems is not just regulatory, but essential for reducing risk, avoiding recalls, and building long-term operational resilience. Darwin Millard, CSQ (Cannabis Safety & Quality)  Darwin Millard is a 18-year cannabis/hemp industry veteran, cannabinoid extraction specialist, policy change-maker, and one of Marijuana Venture’s ‘40 Under 40’ Executives to Watch in Cannabis. Colloquially known as “The Spock of Cannabis,” Millard has focused on the extraction and manufacturing of nutraceutical products containing cannabinoids for nearly two decades, helping companies “live long and process” by implementing cost-effective, purpose-driven phytocannabinoid processing and herbal product manufacturing solutions. Millard specializes in mechanical and solvent based extraction methods for isolating highly volatile terpenophenolic secondary metabolites from botanicals, and his expertise has progressed the cannabinoid product industry forward. In 2012, Millard took part in developing the first legally sold CBD dietary supplement and he’s since worked in some capacity with every major publicly traded cannabis operator at some point in their business lifecycle. Throughout his vast industry experience, Millard learned first-hand about the need for standardization within the cannabis industries, which led him to where he is today. Now Millard champions the benefits of standardization as the Technical Director for Cannabis Safety & Quality (CSQ), the first accredited safety and quality certification program to meet ISO requirements and regulatory requirements from seed-to-sale for the manufacture of cannabinoid-containing products. In addition to his role at CSQ, Darwin is the Vice Chair of ASTM International’s Committee D37 on Cannabis, a group dedicated to the development of voluntary consensus standards for the global cannabis/hemp industry. If you’d like to connect with Darwin, please email him at [email protected] or connect with him on Linkedin. Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the VP of Construction & Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in CEA and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Exec. VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, Mark Doherty sits down with Josh Turner of Yellowhammer Genetics to explore how genetics, facility design, and evolving regulations are shaping modern cultivation. With a background in organic farming, Josh shares how regenerative techniques can improve plant health and efficiency—and why these methods are often difficult to scale in commercial cultivation environments. The discussion highlights the shift from legacy growing practices to highly controlled, data-driven systems built for consistency and performance. The conversation also dives into facility design, emphasizing how lighting, HVAC, and irrigation must work together to create a balanced, high-performing environment. Josh explains how growers can optimize outputs by aligning environmental control with plant genetics. On the genetics side, Josh breaks down cannabis chemotypes, the practical limits of THC production, and the role of advanced propagation techniques like tissue culture and embryonic rescue in preserving valuable cultivars. Finally, the episode addresses looming regulatory changes that could significantly impact the cannabis genetics market. Josh outlines why cultivators should act now to secure and protect their genetic libraries—and how a shift toward seed-based production may define the future of the industry. Joshua Turner & Yellowhammer Genetics Joshua Turner is the founder of Yellowhammer Genetics and a leader in modern cultivation, specializing in high-performance controlled environment facilities and operations. With over two decades of experience, he has built and led teams focused on delivering exceptional results while fostering a culture rooted in integrity, passion, and continuous improvement. Joshua is an accomplished breeder of connoisseur-quality cannabis, with Yellowhammer Genetics earning awards across all major categories and chemotypes (Types I, II, and III). His work spans nearly every legal market in the United States, where he has overseen the breeding, cultivation, and processing of millions of plants. Driven by a deep belief in the plant’s potential, Joshua combines hands-on cultivation expertise with advanced knowledge in genetics, molecular biology, tissue culture, and facility design. His multidisciplinary approach and commitment to lifelong learning continue to shape innovative cultivation strategies and push the industry forward. If you would like to learn more about Joshua Turner and Yellowhammer Genetics visit www.yellowhammergenetics.com or visit Linkedin:  www.linkedin.com/in/joshturneryhg/ Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the VP of Construction & Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in CEA and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Exec. VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode host Mark Doherty sits down with Sam Andras, 3rd Act Architecture to explore what Schedule 3 federal oversight means for commercial cultivation facilities—and how growers can get ahead of the transition. From GMP-ready layouts, one-way flow, and choosing the right systems, to data-driven design for indoor operations, Sam breaks down how smart planning protects crops, avoids costly mistakes, and keeps facility operations running smoothly. The conversation also covers the evolution of cultivation facility design, including precise plant metrics, vetted technology, and why things can go wrong—and how an experienced architect helps check the right boxes early. Add in CAPEX vs. OPEX, energy efficiency, and designing for people, and you’ve got a playbook to survive and thrive under Schedule 3. 🎧 Listen now to future-proof your facility and be ready for federal regulations. Sam Andras, 3rd Act Architecture Sam Andras has been immersed in the building design and construction industry since childhood, starting with his family’s construction company. In 2001, he co-founded 2WR of Georgia, later expanding into Colorado, Massachusetts, and launching MJ12 Design Studio. Both firms were acquired by urban-gro in 2021, where Sam worked until 2023. Introduced to the cannabis industry in 2013, Sam has since designed over 200 cultivation and vertically integrated facilities totaling 10 million+ sq ft, working with aeroponics, deep-water culture, and drip irrigation across various growing mediums. Cannabis cultivation reignited his architectural passion, combining creativity with technical innovation. In 2024, Sam launched 3rd Act Architecture and Consulting, applying 40+ years of design and construction experience to help clients achieve their visions.  If you’d like to learn more about Sam Andres, visit: www.3rdactarchitecture.com or call: 706-573-5520 Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the VP of Construction & Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in CEA and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Exec. VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both. Through his Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning around underperforming cultivation assets using People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate successful cultivation operations. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. About TSRgrow TSRgrow’s advanced cultivation technology helps growers improve efficiency, consistency, and crop performance. From high-performance LED lighting to remote power and monitoring solutions, TSRgrow provides scalable tools designed to support modern cultivation operations at every stage of the grow. To learn more about TSRgrow, visit www.TSRgrow.com. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

Part 2: The Blueprint for a High-Performance Grow Room Welcome to Part 2 of our conversation with Nadia Sabeh, PhD, PE, aka Dr. Greenhouse. In The Blueprint for a High-Performance Grow Room, Mark Doherty picks up where Part 1 : Lights vs. HVAC: The Invisible War Happening Inside Your Canopy left off, focusing on what it truly takes to design a sustainable, high-performance cultivation facility in today’s evolving market. They explore why cannabis still lacks a replicable “gold standard” grow room, how over-engineering can quietly drain budgets, and why long-term success depends more on managing costs than chasing higher yields. The conversation introduces a “less is more” economic strategy—arguing that survival in a maturing market depends on reducing costs and optimizing energy use, not just pushing for higher yields or 30%+ THC results. They also dive into designing within real-world constraints—retrofitted spaces, non-standard warehouses—and the importance of integrating lighting, HVAC, irrigation, and controls into one cohesive system rather than isolated parts. This episode is a practical reality check: high-performance grow rooms aren’t built on hype or “magic” solutions—but on data, integration, and intentional design. About Nadia Sabeh, aka Dr. Greenhouse Dr. Nadia Sabeh works with indoor and greenhouse growers to create the best possible environment for their crop. In 2017, she founded Dr. Greenhouse, Inc., an engineering firm that specializes in the design and operation of HVAC systems that maximize yield and quality, while minimizing costs. She and her team have worked on over 200 controlled environment agriculture (CEA) projects around the world. Her blog and podcast, "The Doctor Is In,” is geared toward growers who seek to advance their knowledge in CEA, climate management, and CEA crop production. She speaks regularly at conferences and events and has authored or interviewed for over 50 articles. Dr. Sabeh discovered CEA as an undergraduate working on a commercial mushroom farm, has a PhD in Agricultural Engineering, and is a licensed Mechanical Engineer in several states. If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Greenhouse, visit them at: www.DoctorGreenhouse.com. About Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the Vice President of Construction and Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in controlled environment agriculture and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Executive VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning around underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both the people and the plants behind successful cultivation operations. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. About TSRgrow TSRgrow’s advanced cultivation technology helps growers improve efficiency, consistency, and crop performance. From high-performance LED lighting to remote power and monitoring solutions, TSRgrow provides scalable tools designed to support modern cultivation operations at every stage of the grow. To learn more about TSRgrow, visit www.TSRgrow.com. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In Part 1 of this episode, Mark Doherty sits down with Nadia Sabeh, aka Doctor Greenhouse, to expose the hidden conflict between high-intensity lighting and the HVAC systems responsible for maintaining balance in controlled environments. Together, they discuss: The Three-Legged Stool of CEA and why lighting, HVAC, and plant biology must be designed as one integrated systemHow increasing photon density drives heat load, humidity, and energy demandThe risks behind the rise of under-canopy lighting and the unintended consequences of chasing more photonsWhy optimizing one system in isolation often leads to higher costs and diminishing returnsThis episode reveals the invisible forces shaping canopy performance, and why many grow rooms fail long before the first plant goes in. 👉 Stay tuned for Part 2: The Blueprint for a High-Performance Grow Room, where Mark and Nadia break down how to design a grow room that works in harmony from day one. About Nadia Sabeh, aka Dr. Greenhouse Dr. Nadia Sabeh works with indoor and greenhouse growers to create the best possible environment for their crop. In 2017, she founded Dr. Greenhouse, Inc., an engineering firm that specializes in the design and operation of HVAC systems that maximize yield and quality, while minimizing costs. She and her team have worked on over 200 controlled environment agriculture (CEA) projects around the world. Her blog and podcast, "The Doctor Is In,” is geared toward growers who seek to advance their knowledge in CEA, climate management, and CEA crop production. She speaks regularly at conferences and events and has authored or interviewed for over 50 articles. Dr. Sabeh discovered CEA as an undergraduate working on a commercial mushroom farm, has a PhD in Agricultural Engineering, and is a licensed Mechanical Engineer in several states. If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Greenhouse, visit them at: www.DoctorGreenhouse.com. About Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the Vice President of Construction and Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in controlled environment agriculture and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Executive VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning around underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both the people and the plants behind successful cultivation operations. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. About TSRgrow TSRgrow’s advanced cultivation technology helps growers improve efficiency, consistency, and crop performance. From high-performance LED lighting to remote power and monitoring solutions, TSRgrow provides scalable tools designed to support modern cultivation operations at every stage of the grow. To learn more about TSRgrow, visit www.TSRgrow.com.   Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, “What’s Really in Your Cannabis: THC Testing & Safety,” host Mark Doherty speaks with Jeff Rawson, founder of the Institute of Cannabis Science (ICS), about the real-world science behind cannabis testing and consumer safety. Jeff shares his journey from academic research as a PhD chemist to cannabis, and how that background shaped the Institute’s mission of independent, off-the-shelf testing and consumer protection. From inflated THC numbers and misleading labels to remediation practices and regulatory gaps, this conversation offers a practical, science-backed perspective on what cultivators, operators, and consumers need to understand to build trust and transparency in today’s cannabis market. About Jeff Rawson, Ph.D. and Institute of Cannabis Science Jeff Rawson founded the non-profit Institute of Cannabis Science while he was a postdoctoral researcher in chemistry at Harvard. He is a scientific consultant for Puffco, a subject matter expert on cannabis testing, and serves on the ASTM D37 committees on cannabis. Jeff earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Bard College in 2002, an M.S. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Vermont in 2009, and a Ph.D. in chemistry from Duke University in 2014. Driven by a passion to improve public health, Jeff uses his skills in researching and communicating science to protect the health and interests of consumers of cannabis.  About Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the Vice President of Construction and Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in controlled environment agriculture and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Executive VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning around underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both the people and the plants behind successful cultivation operations. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. Visit tsrgrow.com to learn how TSRgrow’s advanced cultivation technology helps growers improve efficiency, consistency, and crop performance. From high-performance LED lighting to smart power and monitoring solutions, TSRgrow provides scalable tools designed to support modern cultivation operations at every stage of the grow. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, host Mark Doherty sits down with Drew Greco, cultivator and consultant at Greenstar Cultivation Services, for an eye-opening conversation on mastering efficiency at scale in an episode titled "People, Plants and Profits: Mastering Efficiency in Large Scale Operations." From overcoming early construction challenges to implementing cutting-edge cultivation technologies, Drew shares how his hands-on experience, from managing 75-gallon reservoirs to leading advanced grow teams, shaped his approach to smarter, more efficient operations. He breaks down the real numbers behind production costs, strategies for cutting labor expenses, building strong teams, and creating SOPs that actually work. You’ll also hear insights on indoor versus greenhouse growing , why under-canopy lighting is changing the game and what it really costs to grow a pound of product. Whether you’re designing your first facility or optimizing a mature operation, this episode delivers practical, proven strategies cultivators can apply today. Tune in, take notes, and bring your questions — Grow Sessions is where cultivators learn to grow smarter. About Drew Greco, Greenstar Consulting I have been cultivating cannabis in regulated large-scale (10,000 - 175,000 sq ft) commercial facilities for over ten years. I started in CO in Denver as a cultivation tech and worked my way up to cultivation manager. I have been managing large-scale cultivation facilities for over five years. I started GreenStar Consulting in September of 2020, since then I have helped with facility design, equipment procurement, staff hiring, staff training and facility management in CA, MA, NV, MS, OK and MO. I have a construction background and took estimating classes and some basic architectural drawing classes in college. This background, coupled with my cultivation experience, has allowed me to work closely with general contractors to help with the design and build-out of new facilities.  I have a set of cultivation SOPs that I have developed over the past eight years that are reliable and can guarantee the production of clean, potent cannabis. I grew up swimming competitively, and coached swimming through high school and college. I love to teach people and I love to have a positive impact on people's lives, which i believe, is one of the reasons I have been so successful as a manager and consultant in the cannabis industry. If you'd like to connect with Drew, please email [email protected] or visit his website at www.greenstargrower.com. About Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark Doherty is the Vice President of Construction and Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in controlled environment agriculture and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Executive VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth. Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning around underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both the people and the plants behind successful cultivation operations. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, host Mark Doherty talks with Todd Dahn, founder of CannaLive Genetics, about running a small, community-focused cannabis business in Massachusetts. Todd draws from his experience in both the legacy cannabis scene and the music industry, sharing the challenges of navigating Massachusetts’ CCC regulations. A major frustration: the “mold issue.” Cultivators can be penalized for mold that often develops after leaving the grow facility—during transport, in dispensaries, or even at home. Todd stresses that clean cultivation practices prevent these problems and remediation isn’t needed if cannabis is grown properly. He also highlights other regulatory hurdles: vague compliance rules, inconsistent inspections, and evolving lab testing, packaging, and labeling requirements. While designed to protect consumers, these unclear rules create uncertainty for operators. Todd isn’t just pointing out problems—he’s shaping solutions. He’s collaborating with the CCC on regulations while developing one of the state’s first large-scale social consumption lounges: a 50,000-square-foot Somerville hub with cannabis-friendly areas, live music, gaming, food, and storefronts for social equity businesses. CannaLive Genetics thrives in just 800 square feet of canopy by staying intentionally small, bootstrapping growth, and fostering community ties. They produce effect-driven strains and run a grant program supporting local artists, nonprofits, and social equity groups—showing that success can align with authenticity and impact. This episode offers insights on navigating Massachusetts’ unique cannabis market, building genuine community engagement, and using creativity and intentional cultivation to stand out. 🎧 Tune in to hear Todd’s story and practical strategies for small-scale cannabis success! About Todd Dahn, CannaLive Genetics Todd Dahn brings 30 years of experience in brand development, marketing, and project management from the music industry. He owned a private recording studio for over 20 years, producing 100+ albums and 150 singles, and leveraged digital streaming and social media analytics to help clients generate sustainable revenue streams. Todd also launched a consulting business creating innovative marketing strategies, digital engagement campaigns, and multiple revenue opportunities for clients. He has consulted on tours for over 30 media brands internationally, managed bars and restaurants in Chicago, worked in business process re-engineering, and helped launch recruitment and marketing initiatives for major organizations, including Illinois Bankers Association and NavTech. During COVID, he served on the Board of BAMS Fest, helping expand the festival’s digital presence, educational programs, and live events. Since 2024, Todd has grown CannaLive Genetics into one of Massachusetts’ top craft cannabis brands. As an LGBTQIA-owned microbusiness, Cannalive combines a small canopy with outsized community impact, including grant programs tied to every strain and community-focused events. Todd leads with intent, building community-based brands and creating a blueprint for social impact in the cannabis industry. If you'd like to connect with Todd, please email [email protected] or visit Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/todd-dahn. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In today's episode, guest host Mark Doherty joins Carl Giannone, Co-Founder of Trade Roots in MA, for an insider's perspective on building and operating a vertically integrated cannabis business in one of the most competitive markets. This episode dives into market dynamics, price compression, and strategic decision-making — with a focus on the MA cannabis landscape. Carl provides a overview of his journey from Wall Street to cannabis cultivation, beginning with a life-changing conversation on a mountain in OR and his mother's battle with cancer. The conversation unpacks the transformation of the MA market, from early-stage premium pricing to today's commodity-level competition, highlighting critical factors that determine survival in an oversaturated market. Highlights include challenges encountered by cannabis operators, such as massive price compression (from $14/gram to $3.31/gram wholesale), the complexities of vertical integration, and the ongoing debate between craft cultivation and commercial-scale production. Carl provides insights into brand building, operational efficiency, and market positioning, alongside his work with the Institute of Cannabis Science promoting industry transparency and consumer education, making this an essential resource for industry professionals, investors, and cannabis entrepreneurs seeking to understand the business realities behind legalization. Don't miss this candid conversation that could save you time, money, and costly mistakes in the cannabis industry. Tune in now to gain the hard-earned wisdom that only comes from navigating the complexities of cannabis business operations firsthand. Carl Gianonne, Trade Roots After graduating without distinction from Lafayette College with degrees in Economics & Business, Carl began his career as an equities trader at Trillium Management in 1999.  In 2006 Carl started his own desk, first under Sungard and then T3 Capital Management (2010).  By 2014, his desk employed over 100 traders in two offices deploying myriad strategies across a range of asset classes.  In 2017 he joined Jesse Pitts in helping found Trade Roots - Massachusetts first vertically integrated social equity operator in the cannabis industry.  Carl serves as the Board’s Chair, and his daily responsibilities include strategy, business development, marketing and brand--specializing in irreverent LNKD content.  If you'd like to connect with Carl, please email him [email protected] or visit Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/carlgiannone. Mark Doherty, Doherty Ag Mark has spent over 15 years at the forefront of the CEA and the cannabis industry, leading projects and building successful businesses across NA. He began his journey with Aqua Vita Farms, one of the first commercial aquaponic farms in the U.S., where he helped pioneer sustainable indoor farming practices. Throughout his career, Mark has scaled multi-state cannabis operations, driven startups to over $60 million in annual revenue, and led more than 300 cultivation projects. His expertise spans facility design and operational efficiency to team development and growth. Guided by the philosophy of People, Plants, and Profits, Mark focuses on building strong teams, implementing smart systems, and delivering lasting results. He has a proven track record of helping organizations navigate complex challenges—from commissioning high-tech facilities to adapting during global disruptions. If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected]. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

On today’s episode of Grow Sessions, "Cannabis Genetics: The Root of Success in Commercial Cultivation," we welcome guest host Zachary Taylor, GM of Cultivation at Bountiful Farms, and Jason Begley, CEO of Zennetix, a leader in cannabis genetics. Success in the cannabis industry starts with understanding the importance of genetics as the foundation of quality cultivation. This episode dives into how genetics deliver consistent high yields and premium quality in commercial operations. Today we explore the balance between preserving valuable legacy strains and leveraging advanced techniques like tissue culture to produce disease-free "Gen Zero" plants. In this episode we break down how tissue culture creates genetically pure starter material that eliminates threats like hop latent viroid, providing cultivators with a clean, reliable foundation. The discussion covers practical strategies for choosing genetics that scale effectively, managing genetic diversity across large operations, and sidestepping the pitfalls that can compromise entire harvests. We also detail how tissue culture streamlines propagation while guaranteeing pathogen-free plants and consistency. Beyond cultivation, the conversation explores how genetic innovations are opening new doors in medical cannabis and addressing the worldwide need for cleaner, higher-quality plant material and the importance of honoring traditional strains while embracing scientific advances that push the industry forward. For cultivators, breeders, and plant science enthusiasts, this episode delivers the knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. About Zachary Taylor, GM Cultivation, Bountiful Farms Zach Taylor serves as GM of Cultivation at Bountiful Farms, a premium cannabis company operating a medical dispensary in Natick, Massachusetts and a cutting-edge cultivation facility in Lakeville, MA. With over 15 years in the cannabis industry, Zach began as a caregiver in Colorado in 2007, becoming one of the first 18-year-olds to receive a medical license and among the first 5,000 licensed cannabis employees nationwide. He spent six years managing large-scale cultivation operations in Colorado before bringing his expertise to Massachusetts. Since co-founding Bountiful Farms in 2018, Zach has built a cultivation program that consistently delivers award-winning cannabis. Under his leadership, the team has earned multiple Best Grass in Mass cultivator cups and numerous other industry recognitions for their uncompromising approach to quality products. Rooted in his agricultural background and driven by cannabis's medical potential, Zach continues to innovate with new cultivation techniques and strains. He remains passionate about drug policy reform and finds the greatest satisfaction in serving both medical patients and recreational consumers with exceptional cannabis products. Please visit www.bountifulfarms.care to learn more about Bountiful Farms. About Jason Begley, Zennetix At Zennetix, we are dedicated to the art of propagating perfection. Our Gen Zero tissue culture clones are certified pest and pathogen-free.  Using Zennetix Gen-Zero clones means more vigorous plants and higher yields -- helping you consistently cultivate the best possible cannabis.  Inquire about our demand planning services to keep your mother room performing year-round. If you have questions, you can reach Jason at [email protected]. Please visit www.zennetix.com to learn more about Zennetix. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Grow Sessions, Tony Pavlakis sits down with Jim Megerson of Anvil Agrinomics about the complexities of designing efficient indoor cannabis cultivation facilities. Titled “Connecting Your Cannabis Grow: Easy Efficiency with Integrated Systems,” the episode emphasizes the critical need for system integration over siloed approaches. Early collaboration between architects and engineers is spotlighted as essential to avoiding costly structural and operational issues. They dive into key design considerations—like balancing upfront costs with long-term returns, adopting effective building automation systems, and tackling the integration of environmental controls (such as lighting and fertigation) from the start. The discussion also explores the value of consistent data tracking for smart operational decisions and the importance of a well-defined business plan that drives infrastructure needs, rather than forcing operations into existing building limitations. Strategic planning and integrated design are essential for the future of efficient indoor cultivation. Tune in now to gain practical insights from this must-hear episode. About Jim Megerson, Anvil Argninomics With over 40 years of experience in the design and construction of building systems, Jim Megerson leads Anvil Agrinomics while keeping current with issues of building systems design, including indoor controlled environments for agriculture, energy efficiency standards and green building practices.  During college, Jim completed a sheet metal worker apprenticeship program where he gained invaluable knowledge in the fabrication and installation of sheet metal products, HVAC equipment and associated hardware for large commercial, material handling and clean room applications.  This combines world class engineering knowledge along with hands-on, tool belt wearing experience to balancing design, construction cost, operations & maintenance to achieve the best return on the owner’s HVACD investment. Jim participates on multiple National Committees including the NCIAs’ Facility committee and ASHRAEs’ MTG on controlled environments for agriculture. He regularly speaks on these topics at national conferences. Anvil Agrinomics has completed MEP design on over 40 cannabis cultivation and manufacturing spaces and over 20 dispensaries in 20 different states. This combines to approximately 1.8 million sqft of cannabis industry facilities. If you have questions, you can reach Jim at [email protected]. Please visit www.anvil-ag.com to learn more about Anvil Agrinomics. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

In today's episode of Grow Sessions, host Tony Pavlakis speaks with Timo Bongartz, CEO of Cannavigia, for an insider's perspective on the cannabis industry's evolving global ecosystem. This episode dives into cannabis cultivation, regulation, and technological innovation — with a special focus on the European market. Timo provides a comprehensive overview of Cannavigia's cutting-edge seed-to-sale tracking software, which has become a critical tool for cannabis businesses navigating Europe's stringent regulatory landscape. The conversation unpacks the critical differences between European and US cannabis markets, highlighting Europe's medical-focused approach and the critical importance of precise tracking and compliance. Key highlights include an exploration of the challenges encountered by cannabis businesses globally, such as banking restrictions and regulatory complexities, alongside the significant opportunities arising in markets like Germany. Timo provides valuable insights into vertical integration, technological solutions, and the global future of cannabis legalization, making this episode an essential resource for industry professionals and cannabis enthusiasts seeking to deepen their understanding. About Timo Bongartz, Cannavigia, CEO  Timo Bongartz brings over 15 years of business innovation expertise to his role as Chief Executive Officer at Cannavigia, specializing in the horticulture and cannabis sectors. Previously at Fluence and OSRAM, he focused on advanced horticultural lighting. An MBA graduate from Hochschule München with certifications in management and horticulture, Timo drives sustainable growth in the industry. If you have questions, you can reach Timo at [email protected]. Please visit www.cannavigia.com to learn more about Cannavigia. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.

It’s a new season of Grow Sessions, and we’re excited to chat with Jordan Isenstadt of Marino Public Relations about the unique challenges of cannabis PR in an episode titled "Building a Buzz - Public Relations in the Cannabis Industry." Jordan dives into the complexities of federal restrictions and state-by-state legalization, explaining how these factors shape cannabis PR strategies. A major highlight of the episode is MJBizCon, the cannabis industry’s premier event. Jordan shares why this gathering remains crucial for networking and brand building, despite some criticism. He offers actionable tips to stand out, such as launching products ahead of the show and hosting unforgettable events to create buzz. The conversation also explores the rising importance of influencer marketing, authentic storytelling, and crafting a clear, compelling message to normalize the industry and connect with consumers. Whether you’re a cannabis business looking to grow or just interested in learning more about PR in this unique space, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. About Jordan Isenstadt, Marino Public Relations Jordan Isenstadt founded Marino’s cannabis strategic communications practice in 2018 and has built it into an industry leading force. A former advisor to the New York State Senate and the New York State Governor’s office, he has led award-winning strategic communications programs for a broad spectrum of clients up and down the cannabis supply chain, as well as ancillaries and non-planting entities. He is a regular contributor in various cannabis and policy media outlets offering dope public relations insights. Additionally, Jordan is an Executive Member of the Cannabis Collective and was named a Cannabis Power Player by Politics NY for the 2nd year in a row. Jordan has been a cannabis aficionado for over 25 years and while he still prefers flower, he does enjoy experimenting with all of the newer routes of administration, including beverages, oral sprays, lozenges, tinctures and powders. If you have questions, you can reach Jordan at [email protected] Please visit www.marinopr.com to learn more about Marino Public Relations. Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.