High Functioning Podcast

Michael Mulkern built and sold a CBD company, lost his investment in a bad acquisition, got laid off with a newborn at home, and launched MAVZ Naturals the same week. He now runs 34 dispensary accounts across Massachusetts with zero ad spend.In this episode he breaks down the sample jar tactic that wins retail floor space, why he bought his own product back off dispensary shelves during his rebrand, how he keeps manufacturing lean enough to survive market swings, and what independent hemp operators need to do now as the 2026 federal hemp deadline approaches.If you sell into dispensaries or manufacture hemp products, this is the operational playbook.Topics covered:How he rebuilt from a failed acquisition with no outside investmentThe sample jar strategy that converts buyers without paid mediaWhy he targets 10 to 20 core accounts instead of chasing volumeSkincare and New York distribution as hedges against the hemp cliffWriting a children's book named after his son as a legacy project21+ where legal. Nothing for sale.Full Episodes: highfunctioning.show

Show Notes

Michael Mulkern built and sold a CBD company, lost his investment in a bad acquisition, got laid off with a newborn at home, and launched MAVZ Naturals the same week. He now runs 34 dispensary accounts across Massachusetts with zero ad spend.

In this episode he breaks down the sample jar tactic that wins retail floor space, why he bought his own product back off dispensary shelves during his rebrand, how he keeps manufacturing lean enough to survive market swings, and what independent hemp operators need to do now as the 2026 federal hemp deadline approaches.

If you sell into dispensaries or manufacture hemp products, this is the operational playbook.

Topics covered:

  • How he rebuilt from a failed acquisition with no outside investment
  • The sample jar strategy that converts buyers without paid media
  • Why he targets 10 to 20 core accounts instead of chasing volume
  • Skincare and New York distribution as hedges against the hemp cliff
  • Writing a children's book named after his son as a legacy project

21+ where legal. Nothing for sale.Full Episodes: highfunctioning.show

What is High Functioning Podcast?

High Functioning Podcast is hosted by Jason Reposa, founder and CEO of Good Feels, a Massachusetts-based cannabis-infused beverage company. Join Jason as he dives into candid conversations with industry experts, innovators, and thought leaders from the cannabis world. Each episode explores the stories behind the people shaping the future of cannabis, from business practices to wellness trends. Whether you’re curious about the cannabis industry, looking to learn from the best, or simply want to stay informed, this podcast offers high-level insights with a dose of positivity.