When it comes to the cannabis industry, success isn’t just about cultivating the best product; it’s also about cultivating a knowledgeable and compliant team. In this month’s episode of “Under The Microscope with Jenny Podcast,” host Jenny Germano sits down with Maureen McNamara, founder of Cannabis Trainers, to discuss how a strong training foundation is the key to building successful and sustainable cannabis operations.
Beyond the Rules: Why Training Is the Core of Your Business
The conversation kicks off with a powerful idea: training is more than a box to check. With cannabis still being federally illegal, state-level compliance is critical. Maureen emphasizes that if operators are tempted to skimp on training, they expose their business to serious risks, from potential citations to unsafe products that could harm consumers, especially medical patients. She shares eye-opening stories from the early days of the legalized industry where folks made mistakes because they weren’t yet trained (not wearing gloves when handling products). These anecdotes highlight a crucial distinction: were people making a mistake because they didn’t know or because they didn’t care? The answer is almost always the former, underscoring the vital need for foundational training.
Making Learning Stick: Engaging the Adult Learner
If the idea of compliance training makes you think of a boring lecture, you’re not alone. Maureen and Jenny dive into the art of adult education, explaining that adult learners need to understand the “why” behind every rule. To combat the “forgetting curve,” training must be highly engaging and interactive. This includes activities, team breakouts, and drawing on the wisdom of the participants themselves. The best training doesn’t just deliver information, it creates a space where everyone can learn from each other’s experiences, fostering a deeper understanding that goes beyond memorization.
Investing in People, Not Just Product
A common mistake businesses make is assuming their team already knows the basics. As Maureen points out, this leads to a costly cycle of mistakes and re-training. Investing in quality training is a proactive way to prevent problems before they start. It’s a key part of creating a positive company culture where employees feel valued and empowered. Maureen explains that for many, job satisfaction isn’t just about salary, it’s about feeling respected and having a clear path for growth. A strong training program can reduce employee turnover and build a brand that consumers can trust.
Want to learn how to future-proof your cannabis business and build a team that thrives? Listen to the full episode of “Under The Microscope with Jenny Podcast” to hear Maureen’s full insights, including her advice for multi-state operators, how to get buy-in from leadership, and one of the biggest myths about compliance training.
