This week’s Best Buds partner spotlight features Chris Martin of Hempful Farms CBD. Chris, a chef, and his wife Andi, a nurse, have operated in the industry for more than a decade. Learn more about their interesting journey and the unique ways they are helping to shape the cannabis space.
What inspired you to enter the cannabis industry, and how has your journey been so far?
We never thought of this as an “industry” in the beginning. I started this journey as a grower in prohibition states trying to grow medicine for Crohn’s. It’s been a crazy journey. From starting our edible line at home and launching as one of the first Arizona brands, to being raided in 2012 and facing life in prison, to now founding a non-profit and sitting on the board for another that helps people in the same position.
What are some key challenges you’ve faced while operating in the cannabis sector, and how have you overcome them?
After the raid, we adapted our cannabis line to hemp — not only out of necessity, but out of the importance of letting people know about our situation and how many were fighting for the right to be in this space. Hempful Farms has been open since our raid — operating a cafe, multiple relocations, and a food trailer over the last 15 years.
What has surprised you, in a good way, about the cannabis industry?
We have been surprised with the easy transition for so many people to want to discuss access to, and information about, this plant. It’s exciting to see so many inquire.
What sets your cannabis products/services apart from your peers in the industry?
We have manufactured for 12 years for ourselves and other brands/companies. We as owners are still the day-to-day operators. Consistency is our motto and what we strive for every single day.
How do you prioritize sustainability and social responsibility in your cannabis business practices?
All of our packaging for our cafe/food trailer is biodegradable, and we compost in our kitchen. We produce in small batches to ensure quality and accuracy.
How do you approach building strategic partnerships within the cannabis industry?
Vetting is a must, as well as due diligence. After this long in the space, it’s definitely smart to have an open door policy, but always read fine print with the team — more eyes on the deal is hugely important.
In what ways do you envision the future of the cannabis industry evolving in the coming year? What big changes are you hoping to see?
Schedule 3 will determine a lot. At this time, it’s kind of up in the air. I’m hoping for a chance to even the playing field and allow more legacy brands and owners to get involved. I’m more of the legalizing type of person versus rescheduling.
Anything you’d like to add, but we haven’t asked *just* the right question?
Please check out the following:
Our documentary #HatersMakeMeFamous on Amazon Prime Video
Our book One Life: The Chris Martin Story on Amazon Kindle
Dinnerclub420.com Culinary Experience
Our non-profit, Zonka Miles