Ep. 27 Explore the intersection between cannabis and alcohol in American social circles as Shelby Poole shares her journey from the restaurant industry to founding Betty Bloom, a mobile social club focused on empowering women about the marijuana plant. The conversation dives into the future of cannabis consumption lounges, the rise of non-alcoholic cocktails, and the need for destigmatization and education.Key Takeaways:

There is a significant trend toward non-alcoholic and cannabis-based alternatives, reflecting a larger "sober curious" movement within society.

Stigmatization of female cannabis users as "stoners", contrasting it with the socially accepted "wine moms".

Shelby envisions a future where the boundaries between alcohol and cannabis consumption are blurred, advocating for responsible and inclusive spaces in hospitality.

The widespread mismanagement of cannabis legalization in New York State, in terms of market control and education represents a pressing issue within the industry.

About the GuestShelby Poole is a multi-faceted entrepreneur and thought leader in the burgeoning cannabis industry. As the owner of Betty Bloom Social Club, she brings her background as a restaurateur to develop educational and socially-driven cannabis experiences. With a family history in the hospitality sector and having managed two family restaurants, Shelby stands at the crossroads of cannabis advocacy and community building. Her efforts are directed toward de-stigmatization, education, and shaping a responsible and fun cannabis culture.Instagram @bettybloomsocialclubJoin the Betty Bloom Social ClubEvent March 8th (International Women’s Day) in NYC: Mainstream Mary

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican RestaurantEpisode sponsors: Salena’s, Marshall Street, Union TavernFocus + Fortify BOSSY Summit in Irondequoit March 11,12 + 18, 19

Music: Do it by Infraction, Mellow Bop by Prigida & You are the best by Cutesy Chamber Ensemble Produced by JazzCast Pros

0:00:00 Introduction to Shelby Poole and her work in the cannabis industry0:03:29 Introduction to the concept of free spirited cocktails0:06:05 Start of conversation with Shelby Poole0:08:11 Historical context of the stigma surrounding cannabis0:09:54 Impact of the war on drugs and the need for cannabis legalization0:10:40 The changing perception and acceptance of cannabis0:13:23 Growing up in the hospitality industry0:16:05 Transitioning from restaurants to working for Anheuser Busch0:19:20 Creating a successful 420 festival0:20:58 The intersection of alcohol and cannabis in hospitality0:21:45 Coming back together after COVID-19 as authentic individuals0:22:54 Exploring different uses and benefits of cannabis0:26:07 Dreaming of a different lifestyle0:26:33 Questioning the definition of success0:27:49 Launching Betty Bloom0:30:28 Using Tupperware parties as a model to empower women0:32:03 Hosting infused dinner and movie events0:32:22 Planning Mainstream Mary event to destigmatize cannabis0:36:21 The future of alcohol and cannabis: Allowing liquor license holders to sell cannabis beverages0:41:00 Dark side of the cannabis industry: Rise of the black market0:44:48 The correlation between cannabis legalization and violence in Rochester0:47:36 Shift in societal acceptance of moms smoking cannabis0:51:59 Efforts of brands to make cannabis more accessible and less intimidating0:52:47 Shoutouts to Eaton Botanicals and Her Highness as brands doing well in the space0:54:48 Teaching teens about responsible cannabis use0:57:10 Comparing the perception of alcohol and cannabis in households0:58:34 The shift in understanding cannabis as a medicinal alternative1:00:26 Future plans for Betty Bloom1:03:07 Tease next podcast guest, Hope1:04:19 Focus and Fortify event coming in March1:04:50 Sign-off and contact informationLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices