Every year SXSW raises the bar higher and higher. Providing experiences unlike anything else in the world, the City of Austin and even Texas in general will once again play host to the massive event. This year, things are even more exciting because most of the state is becoming more friendly to the idea of legalized cannabis, including hemp and CBD.
A portion of this year’s SXSW event is actually dedicated to the world of cannabis. As expected, guests still cannot consume products on site, but they will be exposed to high-level information from some of the best professionals in the cannabis world.
One of these individuals is Nick Jikomes, Leafly’s principal research scientist. Mr. Jikomes holds a PhD in neuroscience from Harvard University and a B.S. in genetics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Since 2016, he has been a professional cannabis researcher and data scientist, contributing data-driven cannabis science and even authoring a few consumer-facing pieces as well.
Leafly’s digital footprint is massive in comparison to other cannabis brands. With millions of visitors each month and hundreds of thousands of fans on social media, their success in the cannabis space can be attributed to many things. Above all else, Leafly’s data-driven approach to product development, content, and strategy has enabled them to stay ahead of the curve and lead the cannabis pack as innovators.
People often overlook the value of data because they don’t understand the story that the numbers and reports tell. Jikomes is leading efforts in research and data strategy, including partnering with cannabis testing facilities and producer-processors to incorporate laboratory data on cannabis products into Leafly’s consumer-facing platform. Professionals looking to get into the world of legal cannabis should prioritize his session as one of the more important segments.
Additional Talks from Thought-Leaders
Already announced for the SXSW Conference, are Keynotes Jessica Brillhart(Film), Joseph Lubin (Interactive), Shirley Manson and Lauren Mayberry (Music), Marti Noxon (Film), and Kevin Systrom with Josh Constine (Interactive).
Featured Speakers joining the 2019 lineup include Clovyr co-founder Amber Baldet; actor and comedian Kevin Hart; SM Entertainment’s Head of A&R Chris Lee; actress and producer Elisabeth Moss; futurist and author Amy Webb; 2017 Time Person of the Year Susan Fowler; cannabis rights activist Steve DeAngelo; musician Wyclef Jean; former Starbucks Chairman and CEO Howard Schultz and The Daily Show host Trevor Noah.
The Cannabusiness Track
“As cannabis becomes more widely legalized, there is immense opportunity for entrepreneurs to seek funding and grow their businesses within a rapidly evolving industry.
Please be aware that cannabis and related laws vary. Programming in this track is designed to inform attendees about this fast-changing industry, and does not promote the use or sale of illegal drugs.” – SXSW
SXSW Cannabusiness Sessions 2019
Building a World Class Brand in Uncharted Territory
Cannabis and the Aging Brain
Cannabis Feminism Meet Up
Cannabis & Parenting Meet Up
Cannabis Research Shackled by Politics Since 1968
Cannabis Start Up State of the Industry
Cannabis: The Sustainability Challenge
Can We Heal Ourselves From the War on Drugs?
CBD: The Cannabis Trailblazer
Creating a California Craft Cannabis Brand
Entrepreneurship & Licensure: A Cannabiz Guide
The Evolution of the Pot Dealer
Exploring the Future of Dispensaries
Featured Session: Dr. Michele Ross, Jess Dugan & John Salley with Ricky Williams
Featured Session: Troy Dayton
Featured Speaker: Amy Margolis
Featured Speaker: Steve DeAngelo
The Future of Hemp and Health
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