Under the Microscope with Jenny
Welcome to Under the Microscope Podcast, and I am your host Jenny Germano the founder of ICS Consulting. I have 16 years experience working in Regulated Cannabis operations in the United States. I’ve run and operated vertically integrated licensed Cannabis facilities in Colorado for 6 years and have been consulting for 10 years Nationally. I help new and existing operators navigate the challenges of running a Regulated business in the Cannabis Industry. This Podcast is for new and existing Cannabis operators and for people who are specifically looking to start-up their new Cannabis business - such as a licensed Dispensary, Cultivation, Manufacturing, or Transport/Delivery facility in their State or in multiple States. Each weekly episode will have a topic of discussion related to starting up a Regulated Cannabis business, and/or operating an existing licensed cannabis business in the US National Cannabis marketplace. Under the Microscope Podcast will have guests who are experts in their field each month, along with weekly discussions with Jenny Germano on compliance topics, tips, operating in different markets, pitfalls, managing the overwhelm of a new business and navigating the challenges of running a Regulated Cannabis Business.
Episodes

6 hours ago
6 hours ago
In this episode of 'Under the Microscope', host Jenny Germano, a seasoned cannabis consultant, welcomes Alex Hearding from Red Wolf Risk to discuss the intricacies of insurance in the cannabis industry. With over a decade of experience in cannabis operations and insurance risk management, Alex provides an in-depth look at various insurance types, their importance, and the potential pitfalls operators face. The conversation covers general liability, property insurance, product liability, and more, emphasizing the critical need for understanding and incorporating safeguard endorsements into business operations. The episode aims to demystify the complex insurance landscape and offers practical advice for cannabis business operators on managing risks effectively.
For More information, reach out to the host at: ICS Consulting
Guest Info: Alex Hearing, at Red Wolf Risk
Podcast Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Host Background
00:32 Guest Introduction: Alex Herding
01:17 Alex's Journey in the Cannabis Industry
03:45 Challenges in Cannabis Insurance
04:44 Understanding Insurance Basics
07:43 Deep Dive into Types of Insurance for Cannabis Businesses
20:05 What is Risk Management in Cannabis
20:43 Understanding Risk in Business
21:33 The Four Ways to Manage the Risks
22:46 How Insurance Should Work vs. The Reality
24:07 The Importance of Safeguard Endorsements
29:34 Compliance vs. Risk Management
34:05 Roles in the Insurance Industry
39:49 Biggest Losses and Claims in the Cannabis Industry
42:50 Final Thoughts

Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
In this episode of 'Under the Microscope with Jenny,' host Jenny Germano welcomes Rachael Ardanuy Esq., a cannabis attorney with over a decade of experience in the industry. Together, they discuss how to properly structure a regulated cannabis business, covering key topics such as the importance of legal contracts, real estate considerations, intellectual property, and common mistakes to avoid. Rachael shares her journey into cannabis law, starting from her education at Florida State University (FSU) to establishing her firm, RZA Legal, in Colorado. This episode provides vital information for anyone looking to enter or currently operating in the regulated cannabis market.
For more information visit my website.
Guest Info: RZA Legal
00:00 Introduction and Guest Intro01:09 Jenny's Background03:45 Rachael's Journey into Cannabis Law06:43 Navigating Real Estate for Cannabis Businesses15:22 The Importance of Legal Guidance25:17 Forming a Cannabis Business27:17 Understanding Costs of Goods Sold (COGS) in Cannabis28:09 Importance of Streamlined Business Structures30:33 Forming a Cannabis Business: Legal Essentials35:26 Trademark Challenges in the Cannabis Industry46:12 Common Mistakes in Setting Up Cannabis Businesses55:08 Final Thoughts and Podcast Conclusion

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Ep. 1: Getting Ready to Get Ready | Becoming an Operator in the Cannabis Industry
In the premiere episode of Under the Microscope Podcast, host Jenny Germano explores the initial steps prospective cannabis operators need to take to launch a successful business. Drawing from over a decade of experience in the cannabis industry, Jenny discusses essential research, funding strategies, legal considerations, and the nuances of entering both mature and emerging markets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of starting or expanding a cannabis business. Join us as we delve into the preparation needed to achieve success in this rapidly evolving market.
For more information visit my website.
Podcast Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Under the Microscope Podcast
01:13 Introduction to the Cannabis Industry
02:41 The Importance of Research
04:34 Navigating State Regulations
12:52 Funding and Capital Considerations
17:25 Common Challenges and Delays
25:21 Hiring the Right Legal Help
26:41 Vetting and Building Relationships
31:02 Understanding Market Types and Opportunities
35:10 Opportunities in Mature Markets
38:45 Conclusion and Next Steps