In this episode of Joint Session, host Herb Barbot is joined by Vanessa Cuccurullo, founder of Mrs. C Botanicals and the woman behind Leilala and Watson, a cannabis brand built around the idea of “low dose, high trust.” A two-time cancer survivor, Vanessa shares how her experience first as a caregiver for her grandmother and later as a patient herself changed her relationship with cannabis and ultimately inspired her to enter the industry. The conversation explores her journey from navigating New York’s licensing process to developing a clean, solventless, low-dose product designed for people who want greater control over their cannabis experience. Vanessa discusses the gap she saw in the market for consumers who are cannabis-curious, returning to cannabis, or simply looking for an alternative to higher-dose products, as well as the challenges of getting a new brand onto dispensary shelves. She also shares her thoughts on breaking the stigma around cannabis, the importance of education and transparency, and her plans to expand into new low-dose products while using the brand to support causes close to her own experience with cancer.
Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis is produced by Herb Barbot, with executive production and marketing by Simlev Media.
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What is Joint Session: Diverse Voices in NYS Cannabis?
Joint Session is your go-to source for the latest cannabis news shaping the New York market. Hosted by Herb Barbot, Esq., the first Director of Operations at the NYS Office of Cannabis Management, this podcast delivers expert insights, breaking developments, and in-depth conversations with the industry’s most influential voices.
From policymakers and legislators to business leaders, licensees, and advocates, Joint Session brings you exclusive interviews with those shaping the future of cannabis in New York and beyond. Plus, we keep you informed with key national and international cannabis updates. Whether you're an industry professional, an advocate, or just curious about the evolving landscape, Joint Session delivers factual, insightful, and digestible information to help you stay ahead of the curve. Tune in for high-level discussions, straight talk, and expert perspectives you won’t find anywhere else.