"The only difference between an entrepreneur who's successful and an entrepreneur who is not successful is that an entrepreneur who's successful doesn't quit." - Willie McKenzie Ever wondered what it takes to thrive in the ever-evolving world of cannabis entrepreneurship? Join Shayda as she interviews Willie Mackenzie, an experienced cannabis entrepreneur. Willie, CEO of Left Coast Holdings, discusses his transition from legacy to regulated markets, essential strategies like branding and vertical integration, and pressing industry issues. He also announces the launch of a mastermind group for aspiring entrepreneurs. Tune in for enlightening insights into the world of cannabis! [00:00 - 07:46] Celebrating 3 Years of Trailblazing Cannabis Conversations on the To Be Blunt Podcast [07:47 - 15:30] Navigating the Difficulties of Transitioning from Medical to Recreational Cannabis in California and Michigan [15:31 - 22:46] Adapting to Regulatory Challenges and Market Shifts in the Cannabis Industry [22:46 - 29:49] Michigan's Cannabis Market and the Battle Against the Illicit Industry [29:49 - 36:53] From Legacy to Regulated: Understanding the Transition to Vertically Integrated Cannabis Businesses [36:53 - 43:31] Marketing Success in the Cannabis Industry: The Benefits of Events, Brand Storytelling, and Vertical Integration [43:31 - 50:11] Harnessing the Power of Events in the Cannabis Industry [50:11 - 56:46] Insights, Support, and Resilience for Entrepreneurial Success [56:46 - 59:35] Cultivating Connections and Cannabis Insights Willie McKenzie is CEO and co-founder of Left Coast Holdings, a vertically integrated cannabis firm based in Michigan. After founding the company in 2020, he scaled the business quickly to achieve 8 figure top-line revenue in 2021 and beyond. A seasoned entrepreneur, he has led his business successfully, despite challenging market conditions in the state of Michigan. Willie is passionate about mentorship and loves helping others find success in their business. Connect with Willie! Go to his Linkedin Go to his webpage: https://www.leftcoastholdings.com/ 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 SPONSORSHIP is brought to you by Restart CBD. Check them out for your CBD needs LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone who wants to join me for episodes featuring some serious cannabis industry by sharing this episode or click here to listen to past episodes RESTART CBD is an education-first CBD wellness brand shipping nationwide. Check out my new website 👇🏼 theshaydatorabi.com Get full access to To Be Blunt at tobebluntpod.substack.com/subscribe