20 Most Influential Women In The Cannabis Industry And The Secret To Meet Them In Person In 2024

To celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s essential to shine a light on the women making strides in the Cannabis industry, a field historically dominated by men. These remarkable women are set to share their experiences and wisdom at the upcoming Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, marking their indelible mark on the industry with their leadership, achievements, and commitment to excellence. Let’s take a closer look at each of these influential figures, who not only lead with distinction but also inspire a new generation of women to aspire to greatness in cannabis.

Kim Rivers, CEO, Trulieve

Since 2015, Kim Rivers has been the driving force behind Trulieve TCNNF, guiding it to a leading position in the cannabis industry. Her background in law, focusing on mergers and acquisitions, has been pivotal in Trulieve’s growth and expansion. Beyond her role at Trulieve, Kim contributes to the broader cannabis community through her involvement with the National Cannabis Roundtable and the Benzinga Cannabis Advisory Board. Her work has earned her several honors, including the Green Market Report’s Women’s Leadership Award 2022 and the Most Influential Women in Cannabis Award, celebrating her impact and leadership in the field.

Nancy Whiteman, CEO, Wana Brands

Nancy Whiteman, celebrated as “The Queen of Cannabis,” is the co-founder and CEO of Wana Brands, an eminent cannabis edibles brand that dominates the market across the United States and Canada. Recognized for her impactful contributions and leadership, Whiteman has garnered several prestigious accolades, including being listed in Forbes 100 America’s Self-Made Women and Forbes Most Influential People in Cannabis in 2023. 

Under her stewardship, Wana Brands was announced to join Canopy USA in a significant deal with Canopy Growth Corp., marking a new chapter in its expansion. Beyond her business acumen, Whiteman’s dedication to social responsibility shines through the establishment of The Wana Brands Foundation, which supports a spectrum of nonprofits in making a meaningful difference. 

Chanda Macias, CEO, Women Grow

Dr. Chanda Macias, holding an MBA and Ph.D., stands out with over fifteen years of experience across various fields, including academia, government, technology, and, notably, the cannabis industry. As the CEO and Chairwoman of Women Grow, an organization aimed at empowering women in the cannabis space, she brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership. Dr. Macias’s work is central to building strong teams and directing meaningful research, with a particular focus on medical cannabis advocacy. This effort enhances patient access to alternative treatments. Women Grow is a platform for uniting and uplifting female entrepreneurs in cannabis. Dr. Macias’s role in mentoring reflects her deep commitment to fostering a supportive community for women to thrive in this industry.

Christine De La Rosa, CEO, The People’s Ecosystem

Christine De La Rosa stands as a trailblazer in the cannabis world and has led the company as CEO and Co-Founder of The People’s Ecosystem. Her enterprise is recognized for its innovative approach to catering to diverse market segments often overlooked by mainstream cannabis companies. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Christine serves as a Strategic Advisor at Nourish And Bloom Market, leading AI-driven grocery solutions, and actively contributes as a Founding Member at The People’s Group, focusing on investments in BIPOC and women-led cannabis ventures.

Her advisory roles extend to organizations like Regennabis, Cannabis Doing Good, and Tetragram, showcasing her wide-ranging influence. Christine’s scholarly contributions, including leading discussions on gender parity and pathways to equity in cannabis, coupled with her policy recommendations across various states, underscore her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable cannabis industry. Her efforts aim to reshape the industry to serve historically marginalized communities and entrepreneurs better.

Sara Stewart, CEO, Ritual Hospitality Group

Sara Stewart, recognized by Forbes as a “cannabis consumption lounge pioneer,” has largely shaped America’s cannabis hospitality scene. With her hands-on experience launching Lowell Cafe in West Hollywood and Rise Mundelein in Illinois, she’s at the forefront of offering unique cannabis experiences. Her cannabis journey followed 15 years in high-end hospitality and running doors for L.A.’s elite events. As a co-founder of the Cannabis Hospitality Coalition, Stewart has shaped regulations across several states, leveraging her marketing background to build a substantial following and influence in the industry. Her deep passion for enhancing the hospitality aspect of cannabis mirrors her dedication to community building and offering spaces where cannabis culture is not just observed but celebrated.

Diana Eberlein, President, Cannabis Beverage Association

Diana Eberlein, the current president of the Cannabis Beverage Association and V.P. of marketing & business development at SōRSE Technology, brings over 15 years of marketing expertise to the forefront of the cannabis beverage market. Her role involves spearheading digital and experiential marketing strategies, including event sponsorship, production, public relations, and advertising, focusing on infused beverages. 

Diana’s work is characterized by her passion for creating memorable consumer experiences and her thought leadership within the industry. Under her guidance, the Cannabis Beverage Association aims to unify stakeholders, support industry growth through advocacy and education, and establish regulatory standards. Her efforts to elevate cannabis beverages on national platforms, coupled with her drive to advocate for the industry in Washington, D.C., reflect her commitment to innovation and the wider acceptance of cannabis-infused beverages.

Gloria Govan, Co-Founder, RLNTLSS Brands

With a 15-year background in the restaurant industry, Gloria Govan co-founded RLNTLSS Brands to merge her expertise in operational leadership and customer service excellence with the burgeoning cannabis market. As CEO at RLNTLSS Brands, she leverages her extensive skills in team leadership, revenue growth, and customer satisfaction, aiming to elevate the cannabis experience through wellness-focused products. Govan’s approach to cannabis emphasizes not just the quality of products but also the importance of consumer education and the promotion of wellness, marking her as a distinguished figure in the industry committed to enhancing consumer lifestyles with cannabis.

Luna Stower, Chief Impact Officer, Ispire Vape Technology

Luna Stower serves as the chief impact officer at Ispire Vape Technology, bringing over a decade of experience in the cannabis industry to her role. Her career includes significant contributions to California’s cannabis legacy brands, such as Jetty Extracts. In 2021, she was honored as “Cannabis Culture Advocate of the Year” by the Cannabis Chamber of Commerce. With an educational foundation with a Master’s in Education from U.F. and a B.A. in Social Justice from UCSC, Luna has been a vital force behind drug policy reform, focusing on decriminalization and social equity initiatives. At Ispire, her work synergizes her advocacy with technological advancements to improve vaping experiences, emphasizing safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Christine Smith, CEO, Gron Edibles

Christine Smith, the founder and CEO of Gron Edibles, has redefined the cannabis edibles landscape with her focus on quality, sustainability, and transparency. Under her leadership, Gron has become a beacon for ethical cannabis production, emphasizing eco-friendly practices and community engagement. Smith’s commitment to creating a positive impact through cannabis is evident in her dedication to customer education and her advocacy for environmental stewardship in the industry.

Sydni Joseph, Co-Founder, Big Plan Holdings

Sydni Joseph, a co-founder of Big Plan Holdings, has quickly become a standout entrepreneur in the cannabis industry. She leveraged her Business Marketing and Fashion Merchandising education from the University of Kentucky. At Big Plan Holdings, she leads new business development, branding, event planning, and investor relations, focusing on the cannabis market. 

Sydni launched 3rd Eye Hi, a luxury CBD subscription box, at just 20 years old, showcasing her expertise in startup growth, marketing strategies, and distribution channels. In her role, she reviews over 300 cannabis-related deals annually, conducting thorough due diligence to ensure they meet Big Plan Holdings’ high standards for profitability and fit within their diverse portfolio. Her mission is to create exceptional investment opportunities in the cannabis space, particularly for young women investors.

Alexa Alianello, Sales & Partnerships for Cannabis & Emerging Industries, X

Alexa Alianiello leads Sales & Partnerships for Cannabis & Emerging Industries at X, formerly Twitter, where she has made a notable impact in broadening the platform’s reach within the cannabis community. Her dedication over a decade at X has seen her develop and expand essential verticals, culminating in her recent focus on the cannabis industry. Through her efforts, Alexa has been crucial in crafting an advertising policy that stands as the most welcoming for cannabis brands on any social media platform, opening new avenues for these brands to engage and grow. Her work reflects a commitment to meeting the industry’s needs while enhancing brand visibility and engagement on X.

Denise De Nardi, Chief Revenue Officer, Higher Love

Denise De Nardi is the chief revenue officer at Higher Love, which has quickly become the go-to destination for premium cannabis in the Upper Peninsula. With a firm belief in cannabis’s benefits for wellness and relief, Higher Love stands out for its commitment to organic cultivation and the delivery of high-quality products. 

Denise plays a crucial role in overseeing the journey of each product from seed to sale, ensuring that customers receive nothing but the finest cannabis, rich in terpenes and robust in cannabinoid profiles. Her dedication to the company’s mission extends beyond mere product quality; Denise is deeply involved in empowering individuals on their wellness journeys, offering guidance and support to those exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis. 

Liesl Bernard, CEO, CannaBiz Team

Liesl Bernard, founder and CEO of Cannabiz Team and Cannabiz Temp, has made substantial strides in cannabis recruitment. With a background as a Big 4 CPA and over two decades in global executive search, she brings much experience to the cannabis industry. Under her leadership, CannabizTeam has become a leading staffing firm dedicated to placing top talent across various cannabis sectors. 

Since 2016, the company has successfully matched thousands of professionals with roles in cultivation, extraction, testing, manufacturing, retail, compliance, and executive positions, covering 30 states and accessing over 200,000 vetted candidates. Liesl’s dedication to connecting exceptional talent with leading cannabis companies has positioned CannabizTeam as a titan that shapes a skilled and professional workforce within the rapidly evolving cannabis market.

Jackie Gonzalez-Becerra, VP, Weedmaps

Jackie Gonzalez-Becerra has been a driving force at Weedmaps, leading the Revenue function and enhancing the connection between consumers and trusted cannabis businesses. Her work developing marketing strategies has left a lasting mark on the company’s trajectory. Jackie’s commitment to improving the user experience and expanding the platform’s accessibility aligns with Weedmaps’ goal to support a transparent and inclusive cannabis economy. Her efforts highlight the role of technology in ensuring industry access and compliance, underpinning the company’s mission to serve the cannabis community effectively.

Sahar Ayinehsazian, Attorney, Vicente LLP

Sahar Ayinehsazian of Vicente LLP has carved a path for herself in the cannabis industry by guiding companies through the complexities of expanding into new markets across the U.S. Her expertise in executing corporate transactions for cannabis businesses has positioned her as a trusted advisor. Sahar’s prior role in regulatory and governmental affairs has equipped her with a profound understanding of the compliance challenges facing the cannabis sector, particularly in banking and financial services. 

Her leadership in Vicente LLP’s Banking and Financial Services Access practice is pivotal. She aids cannabis businesses in establishing crucial banking relationships and ensuring they meet stringent regulatory standards. Additionally, her involvement with the National Cannabis Industry Association’s Banking & Financial Services Committee underscores her commitment to advancing solutions that facilitate easier access to financial services for cannabis enterprises. Sahar’s work is instrumental in shaping a more accessible and compliant cannabis industry.

Emily Paxhia, Co-founder, Poseidon Investment Management

As a co-founder and managing partner of Poseidon Investment Management, Emily Paxhia has made her mark by thoroughly evaluating countless cannabis companies and supporting their founders through pitch development, market entry strategies, and operational enhancements—her proactive participation on various boards and as an advisor underlines her commitment to guiding companies towards success. Emily’s dedication extends to policy reform, where she contributes to organizations like the Marijuana Policy Project, Athletes for CARE, and The Initiative. 

With a strong background in consulting and research, she adeptly applies research findings to improve business operations and assess market opportunities, ensuring products meet market demands and have scalable potential. Under her and her sibling Morgan’s leadership, Poseidon emerged as an early and respected player in cannabis investment, valued for its in-depth industry understanding and positive influence.

Tahira Rehmatullah, Partner, Highlands Venture Partners

Tahira Rehmatullah is renowned for her multifaceted roles within the cannabis community. She serves as a partner at Highlands Venture Partners and Commons and as a board member for the Last Prisoner Project. This organization is dedicated to reforming cannabis criminal justice, illustrating her commitment to social justice within the cannabis sphere. Throughout her career, Tahira has embraced many responsibilities, from branding initiatives to investment management, making substantial contributions to various enterprises within the industry. 

Her passion for promoting leadership among BIPOC and women reflects her dedication to creating a more inclusive environment. As a co-author of “Waiting to Inhale: Cannabis Legalization and the Fight for Racial Justice,” she further establishes her role as a thought leader committed to social equity. 

Kim Rael, CEO, Azuca

As CEO and co-founder of Azuca, Kim Rael has made a distinctive mark on the edible cannabis market with products recognized for their quick onset, pleasing flavors, and consistent effects. Her leadership extends beyond Azuca, serving as Vice-Chair of the Board of Regents for the University of New Mexico, highlighting her active engagement in business and community spheres. 

With a foundation built on experiences ranging from startups to Fortune 50 companies and a history of supporting entrepreneurs in various fields, including culinary technology and energy, Kim’s influence in the cannabis industry is broad and multifaceted. Her approach to creating consumer-friendly, chef-quality cannabis edibles has set a new standard in the market. Additionally, her commitment to community and industry leadership is evident through her service on numerous corporate and community boards, illustrating a deep dedication to advancing multiple sectors, including the cannabis industry.

Claire Stawnyczy, CEO, Lophos Pharmaceuticals Corp.

Claire Stawnyczy leads Lophos Pharmaceuticals Corp as its CEO, setting a commendable example in the ethical and sustainable production of plant-based psychedelics. Under her guidance since 2021, the company has made significant strides in offering peyote, a legally accessible plant in Canada, due to specific exemptions. Claire’s vision extends beyond mere compliance, focusing on the responsible use of natural psychedelics for adults. With a team that brings together expertise from biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and beyond, Lophos Pharmaceuticals stands out for its innovative approach to cultivation. 

The company is notably recognized as North America’s leading research and cultivation facility for peyote cactus. By advancing cultivation techniques, Claire’s team is working to substantially reduce the growth period of peyote, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and access. Her leadership reflects a harmonious blend of respect for tradition and forward-thinking in psychedelic research.

Kristi Palmer, Founder, Kiva Confections

Kristi Palmer and her partner Scott Palmer co-founded Kiva Confections in 2010, aiming to elevate the edible experience for legal cannabis users. Starting from their home kitchen, they crafted the inaugural Kiva Bars, unknowingly establishing a new benchmark for the cannabis edibles industry. 

Under Palmer’s guidance, Kiva has grown into the leading edibles brand in the United States, renowned for its dedication to quality, safety, and delicious, consistent dosages. The company’s product line has expanded to include Terra, Petra, Camino, and Lost Farm, all reflecting their commitment to natural ingredients and sustainable practices. Kiva’s influence extends beyond product innovation to community engagement and advocacy, demonstrating Palmer’s holistic vision for a responsible and compassionate cannabis industry.

A Chance To Meet The Experts

These women, with their diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, illustrate the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the cannabis industry. Their leadership, innovation, and dedication contribute to their organizations’ success and inspire a more inclusive and progressive cannabis community. As we look forward to the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, let’s celebrate these trailblazers’ achievements and invaluable contributions to the industry. Don’t miss the chance to learn from these visionary leaders—get your tickets to the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference today and be part of the conversation shaping the future of cannabis.

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference is returning to Florida in a new venue in Hollywood on April 16 and 17, 2024. The two-day event at The Diplomat Beach Resort will be a chance for entrepreneurs, both large and small, to network, learn, and grow. Renowned for its trendsetting abilities and influence on the future of cannabis, mark your calendars — this conference is the go-to event of the year for the cannabis world. Get your tickets now on bzcannabis.com – Prices will increase very soon!

Image: Benzinga