Greenway Audio Magazine hosts B.E. Dunn and Tim Pickett sit down for a “blunt” conversation with Michael Wilson, co-founder and CEO of Franklin's, the nation's leading blunt company.
The episode covers Franklin’s rapid growth from a hemp startup to a multi-state cannabis brand, offering insights into the challenges and successes of microbusiness entrepreneurship in the cannabis industry. Wilson details his transition into cannabis following a high-profile business failure, the pivotal role of quality brand-building, the importance of listening to consumer feedback, and the company’s strategic expansion beyond Missouri.
The discussion also explores industry regulation, normalization of cannabis, and Franklin's future plans, including the pursuit of flower consistency and new product development.
Full YouTube Video - https://youtu.be/CHwiLDzWCkI?si=likC2Hn-9SSVvb4A&
Chapter List
00:00 – Introduction
00:15 – Michael Wilson
00:44 – Franklin’s Market Leadership
01:04 – Early Growth & National Attention
02:33 – Brand-Building & Consumer Approach
03:21 – Personal & Professional Resilience
06:09 – Getting a Foot in the Cannabis Door
07:23 – Raising Capital & Growing Sustainably
10:13 – Merchandise & Visual Identity
12:29 – Product Development & Consumer Feedback
14:23 – Principles of Success for Microbusinesses
17:55 – Teamwork & Compliance
20:21 – Expanded Product Lines
22:22 – Quality Assurance in Cannabis Production
24:17 – Market Expansion
28:18 – Cannabis Culture & Brand Loyalty
33:39 – Product Convenience & Industry Trends
43:33 – Innovation & Next Steps
51:18 – Education & Normalization.
57:40 – Pricing, Regulation & Competitive Advantage
1:02:06 – Future Vision & Brand Legacy
1:04:31 – Cannabis Advocacy & Community Presence
1:14:53 – Closing
