#FIFCONF2026
Speakers & Panelists
Welcome to the Flourish Investment Forum! We have gathered an exceptional lineup of speakers and panelists who are leaders and innovators in the cannabis industry. Get ready to be inspired by their insights, expertise, and strategies for success. Join us for thought-provoking discussions and gain valuable knowledge to flourish in Minnesota’s emerging cannabis market.
Team
Eric Taubel
Eric Taubel came to OCM with experience in legal work at two other state agencies and in private practice. Before joining the OCM team, he was general counsel for the Minnesota Department of Education, where he was responsible for building the agency’s Office of General Counsel from the ground up, and previously was an attorney in the Office of the General Counsel at the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Taubel worked in private practice in Minneapolis before joining the Department of Commerce. Prior to holding the role of director at OCM, he was the general counsel for OCM.
Jessica Jackson
Jessica Jackson is the director of social equity at Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management, where she leads the Division of Social Equity and oversees their multi-million dollar reinvestment portfolio focused on advancing economic justice, inclusive licensing, and community development for those harmed by cannabis prohibition. With degrees in sociology, education, and business—each earned summa cum laude—she brings a multidisciplinary approach to policy innovation rooted in both lived experience and strategic leadership. A former legacy operator, national advocate, and current board member of the Redemption Foundation, Jackson has helped shape equity programs across the country. She is also the author of Sis, You’re Copper and creator of the Copper Alchemy framework, using storytelling and systems change to empower communities and drive transformative outcomes.
Dr. Clemon Dabney
is a Minnesota-based cannabis geneticist and entrepreneur. He earned both his PhD in cannabis molecular genetics and genomics and an M.S. in Plant Breeding and Molecular Genetics from the University of Minnesota. He is the CEO of Doctor Dabs Corporation, a hemp company that produces hemp-derived edibles and is transitioning into Minnesota’s adult-use cannabis market. Dabney also writes as a cannabis columnist for the Minnesota Star Tribune’s Strib Voices section.
Lindsey Renner
Lindsey Renner is a nationally recognized cannabis entrepreneur and advisor with nearly a decade of experience building licensed cannabis businesses, including early involvement in California’s recreational market.
She now focuses on helping Tribal Nations develop sovereign cannabis enterprises, working on strategy, regulation, and operations to support long-term economic growth. Based between California and Minnesota, she collaborates closely with tribal leaders to build sustainable, community-focused cannabis programs.
John Barthel
of Honest Cannabis is a respected professional in the cannabis industry, known for entering the California market early and helping develop cannabis financial regulations and tax frameworks across several states. With more than a decade of experience as an accountant, he provides strategic financial guidance to cannabis businesses across multiple licensing categories.
Benjamin Halley
of Honest Cannabis is an innovative leader who connects the cannabis, culinary, and hospitality industries. Known for his passion, authenticity, and cultural respect, he focuses on empowering communities and creating positive impact across the sectors he works in.
Angelique Zerillo
is the Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder of North Bloom Magazine, a Minnesota-based cannabis lifestyle publication focused on promoting healthier living. With over 30 years of experience as a writer and researcher working with organizations ranging from NASA to Nike, she is also a Certified Ganjier (cannabis sommelier) who judges cannabis competitions and speaks at industry events to advocate for the economic, health, and social benefits of responsible cannabis use.
Calandra Revering
is an attorney and justice advocate with over 22 years of experience specializing in criminal defense, cannabis law, family law, mediation, and workplace investigations. She is also a cannabis entrepreneur, owning the Good Zen dispensary and co-founding SLAY Beverage, a THC drink brand. In addition, she founded CUJI (Communities Unifying Thru Justice & Inclusion) and the Minnesota Association for Black Cannabis Professionals to support minority and LGBTQ+ communities.
Chris Hatcher
of Honest Cannabis is a creative director and Art Director at Candid who leads branding and design for cannabis, retail, and food and beverage companies. Her work focuses on strong visual storytelling and building brands that create genuine connections with customers.
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Lance Asher
of Green Elevator is an experienced professional in the cannabis, craft beer, and beverage industries. He is the founder of Green Elevator, known for organic cannabis beverages and flavorful gummies, and co-hosts the Full Spectrum Cannabis podcast with Calandra. After years in corporate work, he returned to the cannabis industry to help reduce stigma and promote the plant.
Cory Lake
CEO of Lake Group Insurance, is a recognized leader in cannabis insurance with extensive knowledge of the industry. A former real estate investor and retail business owner, he has decades of experience advising startups, partnerships, and emerging markets. He also serves as Co-Founder and VP of Strategic Partnerships at the medical software company Palisaid.
Jason Tarasek
is a partner at Vicente LLP and manages the firm’s Minnesota office, where he helps clients obtain adult-use cannabis licenses, navigate regulatory compliance, and structure cannabis-related investments. He is also a prominent cannabis policy advocate who has played a key role in advancing Minnesota’s hemp-derived THC and adult-use cannabis legislation. Tarasek frequently speaks on cannabis law and has been recognized as a Super Lawyer in Minnesota.
Rob Pero
Rob Pero (Bad River/Ojibwe) is the founder of Canndigenous, Wisconsin’s first Indigenous-owned hemp farm and plant medicine company, and the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association. He is also the CEO of Perodigm, a media and marketing company, and co-founder of the Indigenous Business Group, supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and economic development. Rob is dedicated to honoring his Ojibwe heritage, supporting community, and promoting Indigenous leadership in business and cannabis.
Mitchel Chargo
is an attorney with over 30 years of legal experience specializing in commercial real estate, business transactions, and cannabis law. He advises clients on regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and real estate matters, particularly within Minnesota’s growing cannabis and hemp industries. Mitch has also served as legal advisor to a tribal nation and helped negotiate the first U.S. cannabis compact allowing Tribal cannabis operations beyond sovereign land. He is a board member of the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association and frequently speaks nationwide on cannabis law, Tribal cannabis issues, and commercial real estate.
Carol Moss
leads Hellmuth & Johnson’s Cannabis Industry Practice Group, advising cannabis businesses from cultivation to retail on operations, development, and legal matters. She combines deep industry expertise with litigation experience to provide strategic guidance and risk management.
She played a key role in Minnesota’s cannabis legalization and continues to influence the industry through advisory and leadership positions. Carol also advocates for women in business, drawing from her leadership experience, and is a recognized speaker and educator in the cannabis and legal sectors.
Josh Wilken-Simon
is the founder and owner of Legacy Glassworks, Legacy Cannabis, and the Legacy Cup. With fifteen years in the cannabis industry, Josh is dedicated to ensuring Minnesota's new cannabis market is focused on small craft businesses with local operators. Additionally, Josh is devoted to expanding and promoting the locally-made glass pipes scene. Josh has also been a tireless advocate for medical and recreational cannabis legalization for nearly twenty years. In addition, he was appointed by Governor Walz to be the expert in Cannabis Retail on the Cannabis Advisory Board and Josh is the co-chair of the Lyn-Lake Business Association.
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Dustin Brown
is General Manager of Wellington Security Systems, leading the delivery of commercial security solutions across the Twin Cities. With nearly 20 years of industry
experience, he brings deep expertise in system installation, design, project execution, and client service. Under his leadership, Wellington earned recognition as a 2025 Best Places to Work.
Dustin works closely with cannabis operators and investors to align security strategies with
licensing requirements, inspection readiness, and operational goals. Known for his consultative
approach, he helps clients reduce risk, avoid costly delays, and build compliant, scalable systems
that support long-term growth in highly regulated environments.
Steve Hark
is a Minneapolis-based entrepreneur and hospitality leader known for developing high-end event venues through Entourage Events Group, including Royalston Square and Minneapolis Event Centers. His work blends real estate, experiential design, and advanced technology to create large-scale, immersive events.
He’s also active in real estate development and community partnerships, while supporting charitable initiatives that provide meals and aid to families in need. Recently, he expanded into cannabis laboratory testing, bringing a strong focus on service, transparency, and client experience
Kiera Wilson
is a VP of Business Banking and market lead with over 22 years of experience in commercial lending. She specializes in cannabis financing, building and scaling lending platforms that support regulated cannabis, hemp, and ancillary businesses.
She works closely with operators and entrepreneurs to structure compliant credit facilities, real estate, and commercial financing solutions, helping them navigate complex regulations while positioning their businesses for sustainable growth and long-term funding success.
Marci Knight
is a financial services executive and cannabis industry strategist who helps cannabis, hemp, and related businesses grow in regulated markets. As a CMO and business development leader, she has helped build and expand cannabis banking programs, supporting operators with compliant banking, cash management, and capital readiness.
She works closely with dispensaries, cultivators, and entrepreneurs, while actively engaging in industry organizations and events. Known for her practical, relationship-driven approach, she helps bridge the gap between cannabis operators and financial institutions to support sustainable growth.
Stanislav Manchik
is a dedicated real estate professional with over 13 years of experience in residential and commercial markets. Driven by early experiences that shaped his client-first mindset, he focuses on building trust and putting people before deals. With multilingual skills and strong cultural awareness, he connects diverse communities and delivers personalized service. Known for his passion, energy, and commitment to excellence, Stanislav serves as a trusted advisor who goes beyond transactions to help clients achieve their real estate goals.
Rachelle Gordon
is the editor of GreenState. An award-winning cannabis journalist, Emerald Cup judge, and Budist critic, Rachelle began her weed writing journey in 2015. She has been featured in High Times, CannabisNow, Beard Bros, MG, Skunk, and many others. Rachelle was the recipient of the Cannabis Journalist of the Year award at the 2025 Emjays and the Community Cultivator trophy at the 2024 Women's Canna Awards. She has a particular interest in how cannabinoids may benefit people living with neurological conditions and autism spectrum disorder. Follow Rachelle on Instagram @rachellethewriter
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Niki Mohrlant
is a business leader with 25+ years of experience across CPG, fintech, and regulated industries. She has held leadership roles at Whole Foods and Ben & Jerry’s, built her own beverage company, and advised in product development. In the cannabis space, she has helped open more than 60 dispensaries across 20 states, supported major company growth and exits, and now serves as Vice President of Product Emerging Markets at Brink’s, where she helps build compliant financial and operational systems for scaling regulated markets.
Jim Boland
Jim Boland is a Co-Founder and Partner at Signature Law Partners, where he helps clients navigate some of the most highly regulated industries in the country — with a focus on the rapidly evolving cannabis and hemp sectors. His work blends legal strategy, business insight, and a practical understanding of how to build and scale companies in complex regulatory environments. Jim got his start in the cannabis industry in 2018 with a Chicago start-up that became the largest vertically integrated cannabis company in the United States during his time there. That experience taught him how to balance innovation with compliance — and that great legal counsel isn’t just about solving problems, it’s about anticipating them.
Sumer Blackner
As an attorney at Signature Law Partners, Sumer advises entrepreneurs, closely held businesses, and regulated operators on complex legal and compliance matters, with a particular focus on cannabis, hemp, and highly regulated industries. Sumer’s tax background informs her strategic approach to business structuring, transactions, and operational planning. She counsels clients on entity formation, tax strategy, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation, helping businesses build strong legal foundations while navigating evolving federal and state frameworks.
Sara Brittany Somerset Ph.D.
Sara Brittany “SB” Somerset, Ph.D. is a globally recognized communications executive and drug policy analyst with nearly two decades of experience across cannabis, psychedelics, biotech, and robotics. She founded the United Nations’ first cannabis-focused news bureau and played a key role in the 2021 decision to remove cannabis from Schedule IV.
A former Chief Communications Officer for multiple public companies, including Cybin, SB has been named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in cannabis. She is also a passionate advocate for global legalization and equitable access.
Jennifer Makris
Jennifer Makris, MBA, also known as the Cannabis Cash Queen, is a trusted advisor with over 20 years of experience in sales, logistics, and cash management. She helps cannabis operators navigate the challenges of cash, payments, and banking in highly regulated environments.
A frequent industry speaker and leader, Jennifer works with both startups and established brands, while also supporting key organizations to connect operators, policymakers, and financial institutions across the cannabis space.
Fatima Moore
is a leading voice in cannabis policy, racial equity, and government affairs in Minnesota. As Principal of Firefly Advocacy and Executive Director of SotaCann, she helps shape the state’s emerging cannabis industry through lobbying, policy development, and coalition building.
With over a decade of experience, she focuses on ensuring community voices are represented in policymaking while advancing a responsible and equitable cannabis market.
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Sellano L. Simmons, Esq.
A seasoned trial attorney with 17+ years of experience, Sellano specializes in civil, employment, and business litigation, with a background spanning both top law firms and corporate counsel at Target. As COO of CUJI, he supports aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs through legal education, compliance guidance, and business strategy.
He brings a practical, equity-focused perspective to the cannabis industry, helping founders and investors navigate legal risks and build sustainable, compliant businesses.
Don Raleigh III
is a payments and compliance expert specializing in high-risk industries like cannabis. At Evolve Payment, he helps businesses and financial institutions create secure, compliant, and scalable payment solutions despite complex regulations.
He is known for guiding operators through compliance, risk management, and cashless payment systems, while turning complicated financial rules into practical strategies that improve efficiency, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
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Dr. Stephen Brockman
Dr. Stephen Brockman is a Minnesota native and experienced analytical chemist who received his PhD from the University of Minnesota. During his time at the University, he focused on developing and performing high-throughput analyses of chemicals from a wide range of plants, including Cannabis. His many contributions from his time at the UMN include naming the “Triumph” apple cultivar and discovering the novel red pigment Nescodin. Since graduating, he has been involved in the establishment of two Cannabis analysis labs. Most recently Analytica Inc., where the functions as chief technical officer overseeing the buildout of the facility.
Erica El Hilali
Erica El Hilali is one of Minnesota's most experienced cannabis banking professionals, bringing over a decade of expertise in payments, treasury management, and financial solutions for cannabis entrepreneurs. A Minnesota native and Carlson School MBA, she has held leadership roles at Green Check Verified, PayQwick, and Wells Fargo, and now serves as Vice President of Treasury Management at Bridgewater Bank — where she is helping build the financial infrastructure Minnesota's cannabis industry needs to thrive.
Kennis Littleton
is a social equity entrepreneur and founder of Canna Gemz, focused on building opportunities in communities impacted by the war on drugs. Drawing from his personal journey, he advocates for equity in the cannabis industry through business, community initiatives, and leadership.
He has led impactful projects like Venture North Bikes & Coffee and Payne to Purpose, and is an active voice in policy and equity discussions, helping shape a more inclusive cannabis industry.
Elaine Rasmussen
is a leader in impact investing and inclusive finance, focused on expanding access to capital. As founder of ConnectUP! Institute, she draws on her background in mediation, communications, and finance to build cross-sector partnerships. She has received multiple awards for innovation and leadership, including recognition from major finance and social impact organizations. Rasmussen also serves on several investment committees and boards. Her overarching mission is to direct billions of dollars into underserved Black, Brown, and rural communities.
Shelly Doll
is a veteran community banking leader with over 30 years of experience across finance, operations, and risk management. She is a pioneer in cannabis banking in Minnesota, having launched a program at United Prairie Bank. In 2026, she became President of Falcon National Bank, working alongside CEO John Herges on long-term strategy. Recognized with multiple awards, she is known for advancing innovative banking solutions, particularly for cannabis entrepreneurs.
Katy Tepley
Katy Tepley is a growth strategist and advisor with 24 years of experience helping businesses turn strategy into revenue. As a former Director of Trade Marketing at one of North America’s largest beverage distributors, she spent her career at the intersection of sales, marketing, and field execution, navigating complex regulatory and compliance environments while learning firsthand how leads, clients, and revenue get lost when the right systems aren’t in place.
She is the founder of Alkemy Lab, a growth strategy practice that helps businesses capture and convert the leads they’re already generating, without adding headcount or ad spend.
Katy is based in Minneapolis.
Mark R. Waller
Mark R. Waller, CPA, is an experienced accountant with over 20 years in public and private sectors, specializing in cannabis, wellness, and nonprofit organizations. He helps business leaders build compliant, financially strong companies. A licensed CPA in Minnesota, he is also a recognized speaker, educator, and podcast guest in the cannabis and accounting space.
Mark lives in Minneapolis, MN with his wife, Brigitte, two children, Malcolm and Colette, and their dog, Crunch.
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Leah Kollross
is a seasoned founder and operator with 16+ years of experience in payroll, tax, benefits, and people operations, followed by entrepreneurship across regulated industries like beauty, real estate, cannabis, and hemp. She specializes in building scalable businesses in complex
environments, turning regulatory challenges into structured, ethical systems. Her expertise includes licensing, product development, manufacturing, and go-to-market strategy, with a strong focus on trust and compliance.
Jennifer Martin
is a veteran indoor grower, facility designer and cultivation business planning expert. She has seen projects through from inception to state approval in Minnesota, California, Arkansas, Illinois, Rhode Island, and Mississippi.
She has built budgets and investor documentation for all styles of indoor cultivation based on ground-up construction and pre-existing structures in rural and urban areas, leading to her detailed knowledge of costs, equipment requirements and risk mitigation essentials for operational success.
Colin Kelley
is a senior operating partner at Merida Capital Holdings and a cannabis industry leader who has helped build over 100 operations across 14 markets. He also serves as Chief Strategy Officer and board member at Great White Companies MN, while holding multiple board and advisory roles across cannabis, software, and healthcare startups.
Previously, he played a key role in scaling LeafLine Labs into a full multi-location operation and held leadership positions at firms like Dun & Bradstreet and State Street Bank. His background also includes international development work, notably contributing to Libya’s denuclearization, and he holds a business degree in Finance and Management from Bryant University.
Betsy Morem
Is a Director of Client Accounting Services at SAX with a primary focus on the cannabis industry. Based in Minnesota, she serves clients across the country and brings over a decade of experience in client accounting services. While cannabis is her main area of focus, Betsy has worked with clients across a variety of industries, including nonprofit, wellness, and other closely held businesses. In her role, she focuses on building strong client relationships and helping organizations understand how thoughtful accounting support can drive clarity and better decision-making.
Outside of her professional work, and when she’s not busy raising her young children, Betsy is actively involved in her local community. She serves on multiple boards and is passionate about contributing her time and expertise to help make her community a better place to live and work.
Bryant Jones
Bryant Jones is a plant scientist from the University of Minnesota specializing in plant production systems, breeding, genetics, and cannabis cultivation. He is the CEO of CHARCCO and serves on Minnesota’s Cannabis Advisory Council as the cultivation expert.
With over 12 years of private-sector experience, he has led cultivation operations for multiple companies and contributed to cannabis policy and law development in Minnesota. At the University of Minnesota, Bryant served as the primary investigator on several cannabis research projects, including medical cultivation techniques and terpene analysis. He also received the Mahmoud ElSohly Award from the American Chemical Society’s Cannabis Chemistry subdivision and helped establish the university’s cannabis-focused course, AGRO 2402: Science of Cannabis.
Chad M. Olsen
Chad M. Olsen is an Army veteran and transportation professional with over 25 years of experience in logistics, operations, fleet management, routing optimization, and regulatory compliance. He has a strong track record of improving efficiency, on-time delivery, and overall supply chain performance.
He also served 6 years in the U.S. Army, including in transportation units and as an M1A1 Tanker, supporting operations in Texas, Germany, Bosnia, and Kuwait. His military experience involved leading transport teams, managing sensitive equipment, and maintaining strict accountability and safety standards. Chad combines logistics expertise, military discipline, and a customer-focused approach to deliver reliable results in demanding transportation and supply chain environments.
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Roxxi Bohn
Roxxi Bohn is the founder of Bohn Financial Group, a woman-owned accounting and consulting firm based in the Twin Cities that helps service-based small and mid-sized businesses build strong financial foundations. With more than a decade of experience supporting entrepreneurs, Roxxi specializes in bookkeeping, financial cleanups, SOP implementation, and strategic tax advisory — bringing structure, clarity, and long-term value to the operators she partners with. At Flourish, she brings a financial operator's lens to the conversation about how emerging cannabis businesses can build sustainable, investable foundations from day one.