In Episode 4 of POTENT, hosts Wendy Heimann and Bryan Bergman talk with Maha Haq, a leading cannabis strategist and marketing expert, about the expanding role of cannabis in experiential spaces. From lounges in West Hollywood to events at the Oakland Coliseum, Maha shares how brands are navigating regulation, creating community, and leveraging entertainment platforms like Twitch and Discord to reach consumers in new ways. The episode explores the shifting landscape of cannabis marketing, consumption events, social equity, and the broader movement to integrate cannabis into traditional retail, hospitality, and entertainment environments.

In this follow-up to Part 1, POTENT hosts Bryan Bergman, Wendy Heimann, and Nick Rosenberg continue their compelling conversation with Adam Spiker of Spiker Rendon Consulting.

This episode dives into the local-level dynamics of cannabis legalization and how communities, regulators, and the entertainment industry can work together to shape a more functional and inclusive cannabis landscape. Adam discusses the roadblocks that still plague California’s regulated market, the power of storytelling to de-stigmatize cannabis, and how immersive experiences and smart coalition-building can help move the needle.

They also discuss:

• Why cities that embrace legalization rarely regret it
• The broken cannabis supply chain—and how it compares to other industries
• Ballot initiatives vs. ordinances: which is more effective?
• How creatives and non-plant-touching businesses can be powerful allies in legalization
• What opportunities still exist for newcomers entering the industry today

If you're a policymaker, creative entrepreneur, cannabis advocate, or just curious about how change actually happens, this episode is a must.

🎙️ Guest: Adam Spiker, Spiker Rendon Consulting
🌐 spikerrendon.com

In Part 1 of this two-part episode of POTENT, Bryan Bergman and Wendy Heimann speak with Adam Spiker, partner at Spiker Rendon Consulting and a third-generation political consultant specializing in cannabis regulatory advocacy.

They unpack the disconnect between state and local cannabis licensing, explain why many California cities still resist implementing Prop 64, and explore how stigma, bureaucracy, and political caution continue to block access and growth in the cannabis industry. Spiker shares insider insights on navigating local government, educating elected officials, and why true progress is slow—but possible.

If you’re in cannabis, immersive entertainment, or location-based development, this episode sheds light on how to build coalitions and advocate for responsible cannabis policy.

🎙️ Guest: Adam Spiker, Spiker Rendon Consulting
🌐 spikerrendon.com