In this episode of the Bodacious Women in Cannabis podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Catherine Sidman, a seasoned professional in laboratory equipment sales who has been focused on the cannabis industry since 2010. Catherine shared her unique journey into the cannabis space, highlighting how her technical sales background and people skills made her a perfect fit for this evolving industry.

We delved into the intricacies of laboratory equipment used in cannabis extraction, discussing how these tools, although not unique to cannabis, play a crucial role in ensuring product safety and quality. Katherine explained the importance of vacuum ovens in the extraction process, drawing parallels to their use in other industries like pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

Our conversation also touched on the challenges faced by cannabis businesses, particularly around access to monetary systems and the regulatory landscape. Katherine emphasized the resilience and passion of cannabis operators, many of whom are multi-generational and deeply committed to the plant.

We explored the differences and tensions between the hemp and regulated cannabis markets, especially in light of recent legislative changes and the potential rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule 3. Catherine shared her insights on how these developments might impact the industry and the importance of normalizing cannabis use.

One of the highlights of our discussion was Catherine's love for the cannabis industry culture. She spoke passionately about the sense of community and support that exists among industry professionals, particularly at in-person events and conferences.

To wrap up, Catherine shared her contact information and encouraged listeners to connect with her on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Future 4200 forum.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinesidman/

00:00:16 - Introduction to Bodacious Women in Cannabis Podcast
00:00:30 - Meet Your Host: Susan Burns
00:01:02 - Guest Introduction: Katherine Sidman
00:01:33 - Katherine's Journey into Laboratory Equipment Sales
00:02:27 - Transition to Cannabis Industry
00:03:11 - Unique Aspects of Cannabis Laboratory Equipment
00:04:05 - Challenges in Cannabis Business Transactions
00:04:49 - Learning from Industry Pioneers
00:05:32 - Importance of Vacuum Ovens in Cannabis Extraction
00:07:21 - Simplifying Extraction Processes
00:09:02 - Vacuum Processing Explained
00:10:16 - Introduction to Butane Honey Oil (BHO)
00:11:28 - Benefits of Non-Combustible Cannabis Products
00:12:57 - Safety and Regulation of Solvents
00:14:39 - Comparison with Other Industries
00:16:17 - Passion for the Cannabis Industry
00:18:33 - Reflections on the 2018 Farm Bill
00:20:00 - Challenges in Cannabis and Hemp Regulation
00:22:00 - Impact of Rescheduling to Schedule 3
00:24:26 - Market Demand for Low-Dose Products
00:25:46 - Regulatory Discrepancies Across States
00:26:31 - Passionate People in the Cannabis Industry
00:27:36 - Unique Bodaciousness in the Cannabis Industry
00:28:19 - Importance of In-Person Events
00:29:38 - Cannabis Industry Culture
00:31:19 - Where to Find Katherine Sidman

Produced by PodConx

Susan Burns' Email

Susan Burns' Linkedin

Sound Design by Jamie Humiston

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