In this episode, David Spradlin, CEO of Goldenhour Collective, and Amy O'Gorman Jenkins, Executive Director of the California Cannabis Operators Association, discussed California’s scheduled cannabis excise tax increase from 15% to 19%, which is set for July 1, 2025. The conversation focused on protecting consumers and patients, who will ultimately bear the tax increase during challenging economic times. Jenkins explained how the tax increase threatens public health and safety by driving Californians to dangerous products in the unregulated market. Research shows that even a 1% price differential can push consumers away from legal cannabis. Spradlin offered insight from a retailer's perspective, emphasizing how price increases could push consumers to the illicit market. Jenkins explained how the industry has united to prevent this tax hike through Assembly Bill 564 (Haney), which they hope to incorporate into the state budget process before the June 15th deadline.

In the second part of their conversation, Goldenhour CEO David Spradlin and Humboldt County cannabis farmer Marion Collamer of Lost Creek Family Farms explore the devastating impact of California's cannabis regulations on legacy farmers. They discuss the critical need for vertical integration models similar to the wine industry, the dramatic decline in Humboldt's cannabis farms (from over 100 to just a handful in Marion's area), and the economic ripple effects throughout local communities. The conversation highlights the puzzling decision by Humboldt County to pivot away from cannabis toward traditional tourism despite the region's remote location, while examining missed opportunities for cannabis tourism that could revitalize the area.

In this Goldenhour Podcast, Goldenhour Collective CEO David Spradlin talks with cannabis farmer, Marion Collamer of Lost Creek Family Farms, about Humboldt County's cannabis history. Marion shared how she discovered Humboldt while on Phish tour around 2000, describing it as "this really best kept secret in California." The discussion highlighted why Humboldt's geography creates perfect growing conditions, and they explored the community's self-sufficiency and resilience during prohibition, including law enforcement tactics. David noted what makes the region unique: "People in the Emerald Triangle are some of the kindest, most creative, most hardworking people I've ever met." Marion added that cannabis enabled a way of life rather than being the end goal: "I didn't come here exactly for weed. The cannabis was just the reason that I could stay here." The episode concludes by examining challenges following California's legalization, including its failed cooperative venture involving consultants and outside investors. Tune in for part two to hear about developments since 2016, including Measure S and the tax burdens threatening legacy farmers.

In this episode of the Goldenhour podcast, we explore women's experiences in the cannabis industry, particularly in Northern California. Guests include Goldenhour Collective co-owner Haylee Parker, and Leah Cerri, a cannabis brand marketer, event producer, writer, Ganjier, and founder of Northern California Women in Cannabis. Leah shares her journey from growing up in a cannabis-friendly household in Mendocino County to working in nonprofits and eventually returning to cannabis for its community aspects. She discusses founding Northern California Women in Cannabis, which hosts free events for women across the region. Hayley talks about her decade-long career in cannabis and her commitment to maintaining the compassionate core of the industry at Golden Hour Collective. Both discuss the challenges women face in the industry, including sexism and the difficulties of navigating a market dominated by corporate interests rather than patient-centered approaches. The conversation covers the importance of community-building among women in cannabis, the value of understanding retail and consumer needs, and advice for women entering the industry. They also discuss the upcoming Northern California Women in Cannabis event in Santa Rosa on March 22nd, featuring women-owned brands, a seed swap, and cannabis history exhibits.

In this episode of the Goldenhour Podcast, CEO David Spradlin reveals how the dispensary defies industry trends by partnering directly with Northern California's legacy cannabis farmers. Unlike competitors chasing scale, Goldenhour Collective has created an "asset-light" business model that cuts out middlemen, delivers superior products, and achieves impressive margins. Spradlin explains how their approach honors cannabis heritage while meeting modern consumer desires for craft quality and variety. The episode offers valuable insights into sustainable cannabis retail strategy and the importance of preserving Northern California's cannabis agricultural legacy in an increasingly corporate market.

In this episode of The Goldenhour Podcast, David Spradlin, CEO of Golden Hour Collective, sheds light on the growing confusion surrounding hemp-derived products like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC versus outgrown and sungrown cannabis in the North State. David explains how California’s stringent testing regulations ensure safe, high-quality cannabis, while many intoxicating hemp products lack oversight, often containing harmful contaminants. He highlights the importance of consumer education, especially in states where access to regulated cannabis is limited. David also discusses the benefits of full-spectrum, sun-grown cannabis versus synthetic, isolated compounds found in intoxicating hemp products. Listeners will gain insights into sustainable farming practices, how to identify trustworthy dispensaries, and why supporting small, legacy cannabis farmers matters. Whether you're a seasoned consumer or new to cannabis, this episode is a must-listen for staying informed and making safer choices.

In this episode of the Goldenhour Podcast, David Spradlin, CEO of Golden Hour Collective, analyzes the cannabis industry's challenges heading into 2025, discussing everything from price compression and tax burdens to regulatory hurdles and potential solutions. This candid and comprehensive conversation reveals the California cannabis industry's systemic issues and possible paths forward.

In this eisode of the Goldenhour Podcast, David Spradlin, CEO of Golden Hour Collective, discusses the future of legacy cannabis farming and its crucial role in California's cannabis industry. He shares insights on the industry's return to legacy farming, the importance of business acumen for small farmers, and the untapped potential of cannabis tourism in the North State of California.

In this episode of the Goldenhour Podcast, Haylee Parker, co-owner of the family-owned Goldenhour Collective in Weed, California, shared her journey from casual cannabis user to industry professional. Haylee described the complexity behind the plant’s characteristics and benefits. She explained why it was time to move beyond Indica and Sativa labels - and high THC content - toward a more holistic understanding of the plant’s full spectrum, including the synergistic qualities of each strain’s terpenes and cannabinoid compounds. From pain management to anxiety relief, Haylee also offered tips for new dispensary visitors and front-of-house staff to ensure everyone walks out the door with the right product for their desired experience. The conversation then shifted to Goldenhour Collective's mission of supporting local and family-owned legacy cannabis farms and sustainable practices. Despite producing some of the world's best cannabis, these legacy growers often struggle against larger corporations. Goldenhour's mission is to provide a platform for these farmers, ensuring their survival and promoting their exceptional products. Haylee described the regenerative practices used by their partner farms, including natural pest management and careful cultivation techniques. These methods produce superior cannabis, protect the environment, and ensure product safety.

In this episode of the Goldenhour Podcast, David Spradlin, CEO and co-owner of the family-owned Goldenhour Collective in Weed, California, provides an insider's look at the challenges facing California's legacy cannabis farmers. From burdensome taxation to regulatory hurdles, David reveals how current policies favor large corporations over small family farms – and shares his innovative business model designed to preserve Northern California's rich cannabis heritage.