The Magazine

Editor’s Note: Flunking the Turing Test

I asked AI to write this editor’s note. It didn’t go so well.

Published

1 year ago

August 21, 2023

Damon Poeter GLOBAL CANNABIS TIMES Summer 2023

ChatGPT, write an editor’s note about cannabis brand-building, our cover subject Kristi Palmer of Kiva Confections and cannabis tourism in Thailand.

As the global perception and legal status of cannabis continue to evolve, it is important to stay informed about the emerging cannabis brands and the shifting regulatory environments around the world. This editor’s note aims to shed light on two distinct subjects: cannabis brands, with a specific focus on Kiva Confections, and the current state of cannabis in Thailand.

Okay, STFU, robot. Enough. Stop.

The hype around AI is relentless but as we can see, the technology has a ways to go before it replaces the human touch. But that doesn’t mean AI can’t be a useful tool and in this issue, Von Dellinger and David Belsky tell us how.

This is also our big Brand House issue and Tom Adams has his brilliance all over it. Tom’s deep dive into the brand strategies of companies tracked by BDSA is a must-read for anyone interested in the current state of the industry. His interview with the delightful and insightful Kristi Palmer is just icing on the infused cake.

Our other main focus this issue is near to my heart. I lived in Thailand in the 1990s and early 2000s. I know people who did hard time in Thai prison for ganja possession. How times have changed! Brad Cheng gives us the lowdown on a remarkable reversal of cannabis policy and a terrific profile of Bangkok’s Amsterdam Café. Meanwhile, Dennis Walker recently hit the sois in the Thai capital looking to score and gives us his fascinating report.
Get lit!

5 Smart Tips From This Issue

Host a book-signing event at your store or start a staff book club for Book Lovers Day (Big Dates, p12)
Make a plan to teach each store staff member an important skill one-on-one in the next few weeks. (Planning Calendar, p12)
Do you sell digital gift cards on your website? They may not sell well until the holidays but the time to start promoting them is now. (Planning Calendar, p12)
Is it your instinct to lash out or quietly fume at adversity? Take a tip from the Stoics and chill the eff out. (Tip Sheet, p46)
Ever wonder what a lounge experience would add to your retail business? Here are some of the very best from around the globe. (Benchmarks, p50)

Going Global - Pioneering Cannabis Hospitality: A Conversation with Arend Richard

In this enlightening interview, Arend Richard, a seasoned entrepreneur from the cannabis industry, shares his journey from starting a YouTube channel to educate on cannabis use, to co-founding WeedTube, and developing a unique cannabis hospitality business. Born and raised in Colorado, Aaron discusses the evolution of his business ventures and his current project—creating a welcoming, educational environment for both seasoned and first-time cannabis users. He delves into the challenges of establishing a cannabis-friendly social space, including regulatory hurdles and community engagement, and highlights his vision for a new kind of social interaction centered around cannabis.