Afternoon at the Executive Summit: Conversations That Carried the Day Forward

Monday, January 19 | Ballroom A

As the Executive Summit moved into the afternoon, the conversations shifted from policy foundations to the realities of operating, competing, and evolving in a global cannabis industry. What unfolded was a progression of ideas—each session building on the last—offering both big-picture perspective and grounded, practical insight.

The afternoon began by looking outward.

The Understanding the Complexities of the International Cannabis Market panel set the tone with a candid discussion about where Canadian cannabis fits on the global stage. Moderated by Deepak Anand, the conversation brought together Carlos Rainero, Elliot McKerr, Scott Mayer, and Travis Heppner.
Panelists spoke openly about certification, compliance, export readiness, and the competitive advantages Canada holds—while also acknowledging the challenges that come with navigating international frameworks. The message was clear: global opportunity exists, but it requires intention, infrastructure, and patience.

From global markets, the focus narrowed to one of the fastest-moving product categories in cannabis.

At 2:00 PM, Cannabis Vapes: Changing Technology and an Expanding Market explored how innovation and consumer behavior are reshaping the vape landscape. Moderated once again by Deepak Anand, the panel featured Keith Bao, Kyle Michael, Peter Machalek, and Seibo Shen.
The discussion touched on evolving hardware, technological differentiation, regulatory pressure, and the growing sophistication of consumers—highlighting how quickly this category continues to change and where future growth may lie.

After a short health break, the Summit returned to a topic that underpins every part of the industry: regulation.

The Evolution of Canada’s Cannabis Regulations and Industry’s Approach to Government Relations brought together voices deeply engaged in advocacy, policy, and compliance. Moderated by David Brown, the panel included Bo Chen, Julia Cameron, Megan Preik, and Sarah Campbell.
Rather than focusing solely on obstacles, the conversation emphasized collaboration—how industry groups, operators, and regulators can work together, and why consistent engagement remains critical as the sector matures.

As the afternoon drew on, the lens shifted closer to home.

Different Pathways to Success: A Talk with Four BC Growers highlighted the diversity of cultivation models across the province. Moderated by David Brown, the panel featured Alannah Davis, Graeme Holfeld, Joshua Beckett, and Mathieu Aubin.
From scale to strategy, the growers shared honest reflections on what’s working, what isn’t, and how resilience has become one of the most important tools in today’s market.

The afternoon concluded with a moment of reflection and forward vision.

In Roots and Vision: Kevin Jodrey on the Next Decade of Cannabis, Kevin Jodrey drew on decades of experience to speak about legacy, genetics, quality, and culture. His closing keynote connected the past, present, and future—reminding the room that innovation and integrity must move together as the industry evolves.

The day wrapped with an Executive Cocktail Reception, where conversations continued beyond the stage—ideas exchanged, connections strengthened, and the themes of the afternoon carried forward into the evening.

Explore the photo gallery below for moments from the afternoon sessions at the Executive Summit.