Linkedin Instagram Youtube

At Flower Expo, we offer a unique series of conference panels known as Seshes, designed to foster open-form conversations among cannabis industry insiders. Each panel is tailored to address key topics relevant to the event’s cannabis landscape. Featuring a rotating lineup of discussions with experts from across the industry. brands, buyers, and other stakeholders have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders on the most important subjects impacting their businesses.

Past Panel Videos
Upcoming Panels
Past Panel Videos

Northampton, MA

June 04-05, 2025
Learn More

Allegan, MI

August 27-28, 2025
Learn More

Chicago, IL

SEPTEMBER 23-24, 2025
Learn More

SEASON THREE | MARCH 2025

Chicago, Illinois

To kick off Season 3 of SESHES, Flower Expo made its debut in Chicago on March 25, 2025. Our Illinois series featured industry leaders from top brands such as KANHA, Green Thumb Industries, Legacy Cannabis, and KIVA, along with retail representatives from shops like Hatch Dispensary, Sociale, Village Dispensary, and Ivy Hall.

Frame 23 (1)
Brown1
Cheng1
Chua1
Keevin2
Frame 19
Omar2
Denis_1
Hedrick1
Hirsch1
Ambrose2
Korer1
Frame 21
Frame 22
Rice1
Slowek1
Vinson1
Violas1
Frame 20
Youkhana1
Zelman1

Navigating
the Illinois
Retail Market

Watch Now
NEW EPISODE

Consumer Cannabis
Marketing: Lessons from
Dispensaries
and Influencers

Watch Now

From Seed to
Story: Leaders in
Cannabis and
Illinois Media

Watch Now

Think Global,
Act Local:
Adapting National
Campaigns for
Local Impact

Watch Now

Challenges &
Opportunities for
Illinois Social
Equity Operators

Watch Now

12:30 PM – 1:15 PM

Navigating the Illinois Retail Market

Charmaine Chua

SVP of Sales

Sunderstorm / KANHA

Read More
Charmaine Chua

Charmaine Chua is the Senior Vice President of Sales for KANHA/Sunderstorm, one of the country's leading premium edibles company. Her responsibilities include developing and leading execution of sales strategies, driving key partnerships, and promoting a culture of excellence and development within her organization. Prior to joining KANHA, she held several executive roles in the cannabis industry, including Senior Vice President of Sales at STIIIZY, Vice President of US Consumables at PAX, and Northeast Vice President of Sales at Curaleaf. She holds an MBA from Duke University, and dual Business and Legal Studies degrees from UC Berkeley.

John Hirsch

Purchasing & Procurement Manager

Sociale Dispensary

Read More
John Hirsch

At the helm of Socíale Dispensary's purchasing department, John's focus is on strategic sourcing and fostering robust vendor partnerships. With 20 year background in the industry and leading Irie Care Delivery, John brings a wealth of expertise in optimizing supply chain operations and spearheading cost-saving initiatives.His ability to analyze market trends and demand patterns has been instrumental in enhancing purchasing efficiency and supplier performance at Socíale.

John have an extensive network within the cannabis industry all over the country and a deep understanding of Illinois cannabis compliance regulations. His expertise spans across cannabis products and team development. I consistently push for innovation and excellence in dispensary management, raising the bar for operational efficiency and product selection.

Brittney Youkhana

District Manager

BLOC Dispensary

Read More
Brittney Youkhana

I started working in the cannabis industry back in 2020. I’ve excelled my career by working every position in retail and now as a district manager. I want to share my growth and advice to any and all who desire.

Chris Violas

CEO

BLAZE®

Read More
Chris Violas

With a dedication for driving cannabis industry innovation through technology, CEO and Founder Chris Violas uses his on-the-ground experience in cannabis operations and Amazon business development to support the growth of cannabis retailers.

His background in business information systems and online security, coupled with his time as an owner of a dispensary and delivery service, gives him the perspective necessary to drive the expansion of BLAZE’s powerful platforms and services for vertically integrated operators and standalone businesses across the cannabis supply chain. He is also well-versed in advanced infrastructure and knows the importance of B2B relationship building within the industry.

Prior to launching BLAZE, Chris worked for Amazon Web Services as a Start-up Business Development Manager, where he partnered with new companies to establish their cloud-based operations and meet or exceed the security standards specific to their industries. Chris has a B.S. in Business Administration from California Polytechnic State University with a concentration in Information Technology. He lives in Orange County, California, where he spends time outside the office running, camping and backpacking with his family.

1:15 PM – 2:00 PM

Consumer Cannabis Marketing: Lessons from Dispensaries and Influencers

Sarah Zelman

VP of Marketing

Hatch Dispensary

Read More
Sarah Zelman

As the Marketing Director of Hatch Dispensaries, I have led innovative strategies to elevate brand awareness, customer engagement, and revenue growth in a highly competitive cannabis market. I specialize in leveraging data-driven campaigns and lifecycle marketing tools like Alpine IQ to create personalized customer journeys that drive loyalty and retention. My experience spans developing creative content, launching successful community initiatives, and optimizing omnichannel marketing efforts to enhance the customer experience. Passionate about empowering independent retailers, I thrive on finding creative solutions to navigate the challenges of the ever-evolving cannabis industry.

Keevin Cox

General Manager

Village Dispensary

Read More
Keevin Cox

Hi, my name is Keevin Cox, and I am currently overseeing the role of General Manager of the Village Dispensary in Bucktown. I have been in the Cannabis industry since 2017 – throughout my career I have held numerous prominent positions including Operations Manager, District Manager, & Labor Relations Manager. I’ve had instrumental roles in the successful launches of 15 dispensaries across Illinois, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. I love this industry for multiple reasons, some are due to how quickly it forces you to move and create ways for success. Throughout my time in cannabis I’ve learned that there is never a moment that you can’t learn and grow from.

Elanta Slowek

Creative Director

Blazebox Media

Read More
Elanta Slowek

Elanta Slowek is a creative strategist with 8 years of experience in digital strategy, content creation, and experiential marketing, including 4 years in cannabis. They’ve led innovative campaigns that increased brand visibility, engaged communities, and drove measurable results.
Passionate about destigmatizing cannabis and fostering equity, Elanta specializes in crafting strategies that amplify underrepresented voices and create lasting connections between brands and their audiences.

Patrick Vinson

Host / Founder

Couch Lock'd / Midwest Dazed

Read More
Patrick Vinson

I have worked in the Illinois cannabis industry for 5 years and a medical patient for 6, in that time I have advocated for easier access to cannabis while also helping people get their medical cards. On the frontlines working in medical dispensaries as a budtender and working as a brand ambassador for numerous brands, I strive to educate the public to have a better understanding of this plant.

2:00 PM – 2:45 PM

From Seed to Story: Leaders in Cannabis and Illinois Media

Ryan Hedrick

Chief Cannabis Officer

Legacy Cannabis

Read More
Ryan Hedrick

Ryan Hedrick began in the legal cannabis space in 2012 in Boulder, CO after moving from Philadelphia. After producing The Adam Dunn show for 3 years and working in all environments in the Colorado market, Ryan started his own licensed extraction company in Denver in 2015. Since then, Ryan has drafted over a half dozen successful cannabis applications in 4+ legal state markets. Ryan has designed, built, and operationalized cultivation, extraction, processing, and distribution facilities in Colorado, Washington, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Illinois, and Jamaica to name a few. Ryan specializes in brand partnerships that help the success of his clients and licensees in a rather saturated market. In Illinois alone, Mr. Hedrick is responsible for bringing reputable brands such as Evol by rapper Future, Poetry of Plants, Sour Family Farms, and more, to the state of Illinois under his Legacy Illinois umbrella. Ryan created and has helped build Legacy Illinois to be the the second largest independent cannabis brand in IL by total sales, as well as the number 2 and number 3 independent brand in total gummy and pre-roll sales. Mr Hedrick’s dedication to the plant and the industry is relentless and he doesn’t plan on stopping the forward motion of the cannabis culture any time soon.

Elizabeth Rice

Regional Sales Director

KIVA Confections

Read More
Elizabeth Rice

Elizabeth Rice brings over 25 years of experience in Sales and Business Development within highly regulated industries. She spent two decades in the wine industry, where she led international expansion efforts, developing markets across countries and continents. In 2020, Elizabeth transitioned to the cannabis industry, quickly establishing herself as a key player. She has since worked with some of the industry's largest companies, spearheading multi-state strategies, managing large teams, and driving significant revenue growth. Elizabeth previously served as Sales Director of California for CuraLeaf, and for the past two and a half years, she has been the Regional Sales Director at Kiva Confections, overseeing sales teams across California, Arizona, Nevada, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Missouri. She holds an Executive MBA from IE Business School and is the world’s first Certified Sommelier + Ganjier, combining a unique blend of business acumen with a deep passion for both product and industry.

Ambrose Jackson

Chairman & CEO

The 1937 Group

Read More
Ambrose Jackson

Ambrose Jackson is CEO of The 1937 Group, a vertically integrated cannabis company based in Chicago, IL. In addition to managing a craft grow, cannabis transporter, consumption lounge, and multiple dispensaries; Ambrose is the co-owner of KVL International, a marketing and development agency that owns brands such as Kush League, TerpKings, Higher Self and Outfitters. As a voice for the social equity movement, Ambrose has actively worked to create opportunities for increased participation and inclusion. This is further evidenced by The 1937 Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that provides mental health and wellness services for community members impacted by trauma.

Jason Brown

Founding Publisher

Illinois News Joint

Read More
Jason Brown

Jason Brown if Founding Publisher of Illinois News Joint. He has more than two decades of experience as a journalist and taught at the collegiate level for ten years.

JungleCae

Influencer

JungleCae

Read More
Cae Jones

Jungle Cae, also known as Cae, is a Chicago based creative making waves as a plant enthusiast, model, musician, social media specialist, and most notably, a cannabis educator.

 

2:45 PM – 3:30 PM

Think Global, Act Local: Adapting National Campaigns for Local Impact

Angela Cheng

Chief Marketing Officer

Sunderstorm / KANHA

Read More
Angela Cheng

Angela Cheng is the Global Chief Marketing Officer of Sunderstorm, leading the company’s flagship brand, KANHA. With over two decades of experience spanning cannabis, spirits, and fashion, Cheng is a respected authority in marketing within highly regulated industries. Since its founding in 2015, KANHA has grown from its California roots to expand into Illinois, Nevada, Massachusetts, and internationally to Thailand.

In 2024, Cheng was recognized by PR Net as one of MarComm’s Most Influential, marking a milestone for the cannabis industry. Her strategic vision and innovative approach have consistently driven campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences, earning accolades from High Times, which named her an AAPI leader in cannabis, and the Cannabis Clio Awards, where she has served as both a juror and recipient.

A frequent speaker at industry events such as the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference and MJ Biz Con, Cheng shares her expertise in branding, marketing, and growth strategies. Before her success in cannabis, she led impactful campaigns for global brands like Bacardi, Diageo, and LVMH, honing her skills in crafting narratives that inspire and drive business results.

Cheng is passionate about fostering creativity and growth, embodying KANHA’s mantra: Do what you love.

Jen Denis

VP Creative

Green Thumb Industries

Read More
Jen Denis

Coming Soon

Eli Korer

CEO

Dabstract

Read More
Eli Korer

Eli Korer is the CEO of Dabstract. He leads the company’s brand expansion, business development, and capital arms. Eli is an attorney by trade (practicing corporate, M&A and related business law), but has transitioned into the cannabis industry since starting with Dabstract in 2018.

Omar Delgado

VP of Retail

Ivy Hall

Read More
Omar Delgado

With over two decades of experience in retail leadership, Omar Delgado has been at the forefront of shaping cannabis retail since 2018. His journey began in traditional retail, where he spent 19 years at Skechers, ultimately serving as a District Sales Manager. In 2019, he transitioned into the cannabis industry, taking on leadership roles at MedMen and Verilife before joining Ivy Hall in 2022. 

At Ivy Hall, Omar first served as Director of Retail, leveraging his operational expertise to enhance store performance, customer experience, and team development. His commitment to fostering a strong company culture and prioritizing employee well-being led to his promotion to VP of Retail, where he continues to drive innovation and expansion.

3:30 PM – 4:15 PM

Challenges & Opportunities for Illinois Social Equity Operators

Victoria Williams

Founder & CEO

Wake N Vape

Read More
Victoria Williams

Victoria Williams is the Founder and CEO of Wake N Vape, a leading cannabis brand in Illinois, and a trailblazer in the industry known for her commitment to social equity and empowerment. She heads ACC of Illinois Transportation and provides Responsible Vendor Training, applying her extensive experience in public relations, sales, and mobile marketing to foster community empowerment. Additionally, Victoria authored the "Cooking with a Twist" infusion recipe book, which merges culinary arts with cannabis education.

Educated at Prairie State College Victoria's diverse career includes roles such as Sales Director Launching the brand at Starbuds Kaviar and former CEO of Starbuds Illinois. Since 2016, she has led ACC of Illinois, transforming it into a pivotal consultancy across Illinois, Denver, and Nevada, and has been instrumental in launching social equity initiatives that create opportunities for underrepresented communities in the cannabis industry.

Victoria's latest milestone is the launch of "Victoria LP presents... WakeNVape," the first African-American woman owned vape line in Illinois, designed with a deep understanding of mothers and women consumers' unique needs. Her unwavering commitment and innovative approach have earned her multiple accolades and a respected position on various industry boards, shaping policies and advocating for fair market access for minority-owned businesses. Victoria’s journey in the cannabis industry is marked by her innovative spirit and steadfast dedication to creating a more inclusive and diverse market. She was also awarded The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023.

Reese Xavier

CEO & Managing Partner

HT23 Growers

Read More
Reese Xavier

Reese Xavier is a dynamic serial entrepreneur, CEO, and Managing Partner of HT23 Growers, a pioneering, 100% African American-owned craft cannabis company based in Chicago Heights, Illinois. A visionary leader, Reese is driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and expanding opportunities for communities of color within the cannabis industry. With a Master of Science degree and a Master Certification in Cannabis, he plays a collaborative role in shaping the industry's future while spearheading the growth of HT23 Growers in collaboration with its partner community.

At the forefront of Illinois' craft cannabis sector, Reese leads HT23 Growers with a steadfast dedication to quality, equity, and community empowerment. His tireless advocacy for economic inclusion and social progress continues to position HT23 Growers as a catalyst for meaningful change and economic development in the Chicagoland area.

Beyond his leadership at HT23 Growers, Reese actively contributes to the cannabis industry as President of the Illinois Association of Independent Cannabis Entrepreneurs, a Board Member of the Illinois Independent Craft Growers Association, and an engaged member of the U.S. Cannabis Roundtable.

Crystal Anderson

CFO

Excelleaf Dispensary

Read More
Crystal Anderson

Crystal Anderson’s entrepreneurial experience began in 1997 as a Managing Real Estate Broker with 5 million in sales and managing more than 100 residential and commercial properties. Despite this success, she pursued her lifelong passion of caring and nurturing for others by pursuing a career as a Nurse Anesthesiologist. She has spent most of her career at an Illinois VA hospital. In 2014, Crystal understanding the impact of the opioid crisis and the war on drugs in her community, felt that her skillset and experience would help in succeeding to obtain a medicinal Cannabis License. Although she and her partners applied and did not receive one Crystal did not give up. Crystal engaged in extensive studying of cannabis stains, brands and products. In 2015 she spent time at Alpine Wellness of Telluride Co. learning about Cannabis products and the industry. In 2019 Crystal and her partners applied for a Recreational Dispensary and Craft Grow license and were awarded both. Excelleaf Dispensary opened in DeKalb, IL on December 1 , 2023. The Craft Grow Facility is to follow soon in Kankakee, IL.

Crystal is a member of the American Cannabis Nurses Association, NORML, Doctors for Cannabis
Regulation. Crystal is Vice President of the Illinois Independent Craft Growers Association, and the
Secretary of the Alliance of Independent Cannabis Entrepreneurs. Crystal enjoys reading and traveling
around the world.

Crystal is passionate about caring for people, providing for them as patients in the hospital setting and as
customers in the dispensary. She applies the same evidence base approach and practice from the healthcare industry to the cannabis industry.

Ted Parks

Owner

Moetta's Transport

Read More
Ted Parks
  • Over 10 years managerial experience
  •  Experienced in managing retail banks with deposits exceeding $140 million.
  • Adept at driving company growth and improving team performance.
  • Results-oriented, decisive leader with proven success in market identification, strategic
    thinking, and problem solving.
  • Proven track record of leadership, management, adaptability, working with and assisting
    individuals with disabilities

Founder & Chairman
Independent Third-Party Carriers Association (ITPCA)

  • Leads an industry association advocating for fair regulations and best practices in
    cannabis transportation.
  • Develops strategic initiatives to support independent transporters in compliance, safety,
    and financial success.
  • Engages with industry stakeholders, policymakers, and regulators to influence legislation.

Business Owner
Moetta’s Transport

  • Specializes in climate-controlled transportation for cannabis products.
  • Ensures compliance with industry regulations and implements stringent security
    measures.
  • Manages logistics, route planning, and customer relations to maintain operational
    excellence.

SEASON TWO | AUGUST 2024

Lansing, Michigan

To wrap up Season 2, Flower Expo made its debut in Lansing, Michigan, launching a fresh round of Seshes in a new state. Our Michigan series featured industry leaders from top brands such as TerrAscend, CCELL, and Left Coast Holdings, along with cutting-edge tech innovators from Genetica and Evergreen Digital. Marketing experts from The TOKE Agency, Dispenza Dispensary Marketing, and other key players also joined the lineup, making it a diverse and dynamic series of discussions.

Adam Brenzi
Angela Pih
Ben York
Brady Madden
Harrison Roseblum
Jack Grover
Jim Makuso
John Paul
Steve Kikilick
Steve Riparp
William Mckenzie
Willy Vlasic
Zack Issa

Innovating and Scaling:
The Future of Cannabis
Retail and Cultivation

Watch Now

Elevating Cannabis
Business: Innovations in
Retail, Marketing, and Technology

Watch Now

Maximizing Cannabis
Business Potential: Loyalty, Staffing, and Innovation

Watch Now

Harnessing AI and Digital Marketing for Cannabis Industry Success

Watch Now

SEASON TWO | JUNE 2024

Greenfield, Massachusetts

Our industry event exceeded expectations, with Season 2 of our Greenfield Seshes as a standout highlight. The panels featured insights from cannabis veterans, tech innovators, and media icons representing organizations like Curaleaf, Gentlemen Smugglers, DAZED, GreenState (a Hearst company), and The Bluntness.

Brian Foy
Charmaine Chua
Donald Wyse
Drudy Ledbetter
Eugene Mccain
Gary Perry
Harrison Wise
Paul Cambio
Peter Glantz
Rachell Gordon
Randy Reed
Robin Stroike
Rubin Seyde
Jason Paredes

Evolving Trends
in the Cannabis Industry

Watch Now

OGs in the Industry:
From Gray Market to
Legal Business

Watch Now

Elevating Your Brand:
Shaping the Conversation

Watch Now

Challenges & Opportunities
for Social Equity Brands

Watch Now

SEASON ONE | JUNE 2023

Greenfield, Massachusetts

Set against the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in western Massachusetts, the inaugural Flower Expo began as a concept event. Our top priority was to challenge industry norms and focus on authenticity around the plant. This is where Seshes was born—a panel series curated by industry-leading founders from brands like Coast Cannabis, Perpetual Brands, and PAX. These inspiring thought leaders became part of a pivotal moment in cannabis history, joining our rotation of speakers and sparking conversations that shaped the industry.

Alex Mazin
Angela Brown
Blake Mensing
Brian Hurley
Charmaine Chua
Courtney Eder
Derrel Weathers
Dutch ReBelle
Harry Jean-Jacques
Meg Sanders
Ralph Greenberg

Scaling Up: Building a
Multi-State Cannabis Business

Watch Now

Surviving and Thriving in the
Massachusetts Cannabis
Retail Market

Watch Now

Big Hope Project:
Guiding Light Re-Entry Series

Watch Now
CONTACT NOW