Event Schedule

Get a sneak peek at our event schedule for the 2018 World Medical Cannabis Conference & Expo! Our events will be added as they are confirmed and are subject to change. See below for more information.

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CLE Courses

The accrediting agency for continuing legal education (CLE) is the Allegheny County Bar Association (ACBA). The ACBA is approved by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Continuing Legal Education Board as an accredited CLE provider. Each CLE program offered during the conference has been approved by the Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education Board for the number of CLE credits indicated. The number of credits that will be awarded for attendance for attorneys seeking credit in states other than Pennsylvania will depend on the jurisdiction the attorney is requesting credit for. Other than for Pennsylvania licensed attorneys, attorneys seeking credit for CLEs in other jurisdictions should “self-report”. Attorneys attending the CLEs will receive a CLE slip as proof of attendance for each CLE course provided and are responsible for certifying completion of the required credits as required by such jurisdiction.

Presenter: Cátia Kossovsky is the founder and managing member of Kossovsky Law PLLC, a boutique law firm focused on assisting cannabusiness clients with corporate, business, financing, securities laws and regulations compliance. Cátia is the Chair of Allegheny County Bar Association’s Medical Marijuana and Hemp Law Committee. She is an avid speaker and writer in cannabis law and regulation and serves as Of Counsel to Hoban Law Group.

CME Courses

CME accreditation for the identified sessions is pending A.A.F.P. approval for AMA-1 credit. Medical professionals, in addition to physicians, may benefit from continuing education (CE) credit offered by World Medical Cannabis Conference & Expo speaker Dr. Regina Nelson. Currently, four AMA-1 courses are pending final approval by the American Association of Family Practitioners (AAFP).

Presenter: Dr. Regina Nelson is a founding officer of The eCS Therapy Center an Integral 501C3 organization desiring to build awareness of the endocannabinoid system (eCS) and champion community-based education and research projects. Dr. Nelson has published and presented in twenty peer-reviewed forums, including events hosted by the International Leadership Association, the International Cannabinoid Research Society, and the Integral European Conference.

CPE/CLE Courses

The accrediting agency for the CLE substantive credits is the Allegheny County Bar Association.

The accrediting agency for the CPE credits is the NJ State Board of Accountancy with Thorburn Walker as licensed approved sponsor (License #20CE00239900).

Presenter #1: Thorburn Walker LLC, providing legal representation in Commercial Litigation, General Business Representation, Marijuana Tax Law, Construction, Land Use, Entitlements, Cannabis Law, Estate Planning, Real Estate, Tax Law and IRS Representation.

Presenter #2: Seigneur Gustafson LLP, a nationally recognized firm for its unparalleled expertise, along with a reasoned, impartial and thorough approach to the complex, evolving world of valuation and litigation support services.

Time for the Talk

Time:  12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Speakers: Dr. Regina Nelson
CME Credits: 1

From Dr. Nelson’s book, Time for the Talk: Talking to Your Doctor or Patient about Medical Cannabis, this session is designed to promote positive communication around the use of medical cannabis as an issue of diversity. Participants will briefly explore the endocannabinoid system (why), medical cannabis and hemp products (what/how), and provider and patient experiences (who). Helping physicians and patients (the public) understand the importance of co-decision-making and opening communication channels are the primary objectives of this session. AMA-1 credit is pending A.A.F.P. approval for this session.

How to Cook Cannabutter

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Speakers: Captain Kirk, Michael Hensel

Cannabis infused edibles are becoming increasingly popular for many consumers and patients who want a healthier and more discreet way to consume their cannabis. However, many do not know how to properly make these edibles in their own kitchens. This panel will go over how to appropriately dose and cook Cannabutter for desired results.

Second Class Citizens? How Cannabis Consumers Continue to Face Prejudices and What They Can Do About It

Time: Noon – 12:45 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Patrick Nightingale, Dr. Bryan Doner

For decades cannabis consumers have been portrayed as everything from depraved addicts to lazy do-nothings. Even today with widespread support for medicinal cannabis patients often find themselves treated differently merely because they choose a natural, non-toxic treatment alternative. This keynote will explore the stereotypes and prejudices facing medical cannabis patients in 2018 and what we can do to effect positive and permanent change.

Overcoming Banking and Financing Obstacles for Marijuana Related Businesses

Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Speakers: Cátia Kossovsky, Steve Schain, John Vardaman
CLE Credits: 1

Navigating cannabis industry banking, financial and investing challenges. This timely and informative seminar will provide information on the current state of banking and financing in the industry, how banks are operating in the industry, and how marijuana related businesses can forge and maintain long term banking and financing relationships.

The Future of Cannabis in the Fitness and Wellness Industry

Time: 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Michael Sena, Dr. Ed Sulkowski

Cannabis continues to be a hot topic in the world of professional sports, but what are its benefits for daily fitness regimens and overall wellness? Understand how cannabis is infiltrating the fitness and wellness sectors and what is trending for 2018.

Building Community and Creating a Network of Resources for Patients

Time: 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Speakers: Theresa Nightingale, Jane Fix, Sarara Corva
Moderator: Sven Hosford

This panel will discuss how businesses can better serve the patient community in both medical and adult-use markets. Attendees will discover how to build brand loyalty through custom educational content and resources as well as learn how to reach and engage with their target consumer.

Creating a Social Conscious Brand While Creating a Corporate Culture

Time: 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Speakers: Lilach Mazor Power

How to create and develop your company’s culture and how to incorporate socially conscious business practices. What does it mean to your bottom line and how will it affect your overall success.

An Introduction to CBDs: Who Can They Help and What are Their Health Benefits?

Time: 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Speakers: Dr. Stuart Titus

Dr. Stuart Titus, CEO of Medical Marijuana Inc. will talk about CBD and the potential benefits many around the world are seeing by taking this substance for their ailments. He will talk about the many different ailments and disorders that have seen great results because of CBD.

Viridian Staffing: Juana Career Readiness Workshop

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Speakers: David Murét

Interested in becoming part of the fastest growing industry in North America? You know you wanna! Juana Career was created by highly experienced recruiting professionals to provide organic opportunities for job seekers to connect with leading cannabis industry employers, be they producers, processors, retailers, labs or other ancillary businesses. Juana Career provides those looking to launch their careers in the cannabis industry, as well as those looking to advance within it, with an unmatched set of tools and opportunities.

Beneath the Surface: The Endocannabinoid System and Your Skin

Time: 2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Speakers: Dr. Jeanette Jacknin

An expert in the field of cosmeceuticals and author of Smart Medicine for Your Skin, Dr. Jacknin will discuss the endocannibinoid system and skincare, as well as an in-depth look at cannibinoid and hemp topicals.

Consumer Rights Session – DUIs, Guns and Employment

Time:  2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Speakers: Patrick Nightingale, Catia Kossovsky, Jean Novak
CLE Credits: 1

With more and more states legalizing medical cannabis patients face the potential for a Driving While Impaired charge even if following their physician’s recommendation. Patients in legal medical cannabis states face uncertainties when it comes to their Second Amendment rights. A patient may lawfully own a firearm under state law, but may nonetheless subject to federal prosecution. Across the country employees and employers are confronting issues related to an employee’s medical cannabis use. This CLE will take a look at trends across the country with respect to patient/employee rights. This CLE will take a look at how law enforcement across the nation is addressing DUI in the context of medical cannabis and survey existing trends in medical cannabis states and whether patients should fear federal prosecution.

My CannaBusiness Journey: Founder of the First Cannabis Dispensary

Time: 2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Speakers: Alex Abellan

Meet Canadian film and television actor Alex Abellan who left his on-screen career to pursue a new kind of venture in cannabis. As founder of one of the first cannabis dispensaries, Alex will share his entrepreneurial journey, industry insights, and projections for the future.

The Fundamentals of Testing: How to Be Compliant and Build Credibility

Time: 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Dr. Andrew Rosenstein

Steep Hill was Founded in CA in 2008 and is a science and technology firm that has become the industry leader in cannabis testing and analytics in the United States, and internationally. Steep Hill pioneered the first medical cannabis potency and microbiological contaminants testing methodology used in California, which was the first state to legalize medical cannabis. The company has since developed a variety of revolutionary cannabis industry testing products. Steep Hill has also provided expert consulting advice to many U.S. states and local municipalities on effective cannabis testing, quality assurance and regulation for a healthy and safe supply of medical cannabis.

eCS 101

Time:  3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Speakers: Dr. Regina Nelson
CME Credits: 1

This session is designed to assist session participants in developing a basic understanding of the endocannabinoid system (eCS) and explore the ways phytocannabinoids, like THC and CBD, interact with the eCS. Further, the session will explore the various ways cannabis may be delivered, as well as targeted dosing guidelines. AMA-1 credit is pending A.A.F.P. approval for this session.

Pennsylvania Opportunities: How to Capitalize in Round 2 with a Winning Application

Time: 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
Speakers: Sara Gullickson

Learn how to create a strong license application and build your team for Phase II of Pennyslvania’s medical marijuana program. Receive a comprehensive overview of key application elements and how to score high on the 1000-point merit-based system. Discover proven strategies for a well-crafted and quality-driven application. Understand ways to prepare for program expansion and potential regulation changes with a thorough and adaptive application.

A History of Cannabis

Time:  3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
Speakers: Don E. Wirtshafter

Don E Wirtshafter has collected the history of the medical use of Cannabis for over 40 years. A team is busy working to turn this collection into the Cannabis Museum. This presentation will showcase 60 slides of objects hidden from history. Study of this remaining evidence discloses much about the plant and it historic use.

Cryptocurrency Concerns for the Cannabis Industry

Time: 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
Speakers: Steve Schain, Kevin Fortin
Moderator: Catia Kossovsky

Join the discussion surrounding whether cryptocurrency provides practical solutions to most immediate and relevant concerns of marijuana related business in conducting financial transactions.

Cannabis & Your Family: Meet the Parents of Children Using Cannabis

Time: 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: TBD

There is no shortage of reports on parents stating that medical cannabis save their child’s life. There’s also no shortage of the hardships and difficulties that go into obtaining and treating your child with medical cannabis. This panel will feature a panel of patients and their parents who will tell their stories about how cannabis has transformed their lives and helped them get through some debilitating diseases and circumstances. Come and listen to these heroic advocates as they discuss their road to discovering the truing healing power of cannabis.

Cannabis Career Fair

Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Exhibit Hall C

Discover what companies are hiring locally, regionally, and nationally. Engage and network with industry representatives, and drop off your resume. Learn about how you can take your career skills and expertise and apply it to the cannabis market.

Tax and Your Business 280E Update

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Speakers: Jim Thorburn
CPE Credits: 1 / CLE Credits: 1

IRC 280E is far and away the most important tax provision for the cannabis industry. Section 280E denies all business deductions to any business which “consists” of unlawfully “trafficking” in a Schedule I or II controlled substance. The IRS has determined that Section 280E applies to the cannabis industry. The cannabis industry is currently subject to an “Information Gathering Project” by the IRS and numerous audits have been commenced. This course will take the practitioner through the basics of what a Section 280E audit looks like and both the civil and criminal implications the audit has.

Workshop with Shimadzu

Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (SSI) is the American subsidiary of Shimadzu Corporation, headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 1875, Shimadzu is a $3 billion multinational corporation with three major divisions: Medical Diagnostics, Aerospace/Industrial, and Analytical Instruments. The Analytical Division is one of the world´s largest manufacturers of analytical instrumentation and environmental monitoring equipment. In addition to Japan, Shimadzu products are manufactured in China, the Philippines, the U.K., and in Portland, Oregon. International sales, service, and technical support facilities are located in Germany, Singapore, Australia, China, Brazil, and Turkey, with numerous regional offices and distributors worldwide.

• 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Overview of Cannabis Testing
• 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: A Voyage into the Captivating Realm of Science and its Regulation
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Making a List and Checking it Twice – Are Pesticide Regulations Naughty or Nice?
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Cannabis Extractions with United Chemical Technologies
• 2:00 – 3:00 PM: Cannabis Analyzer for Potency and Hands on Workshop
• 3:00 – 4:00 PM: A Day in the Life of a Cannabis Sample

Sexual Health & Cannabis

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Speakers: Dr. Regina Nelson
CME Credits: 1

This presentation will review study a unique and innovative opportunity for research and analysis in sexual health and cannabis. Nelson will discuss the creative, mixed-methodology study that launches in 2018. The sexual function and health study will focus on critical areas in need of review: emotional and physical satisfaction with and without a partnered sexual relationship; satisfaction with sexual health and function; and the importance of sex, sexual function and health to quality of life. Further, this study seeks to understand how introducing novel cannabis products designed for sexual enhancement and health affect consumer respondents’ sexual experiences. Initial study insight and findings will be discussed with session participants. AMA-1 credit is pending A.A.F.P. approval for this session.

Law Update and Business Impact

Time:  11:00 AM – Noon
Speakers: Jim Thorburn
CPE Credits: 1 / CLE Credits: 1

There is no business segment in the United States that is changing faster than the cannabis industry. In just a few short years, fifteen additional states have legalized cannabis either for medical, adult use, or both. The federal laws have been changing – but more against the industry. This course will discuss the “mixed messages” being sent by the federal government and the potential impact it can have on practitioners in the cannabis industry.

* You must stay for entire two hours to receive up to two (2) course credits.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Time: 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Nadir Pearson

What do Facebook, Dropbox, and Microsoft all have in common? Each was created by a group of college students. Nadir Pearson will speak on bridging academia and cannabis for the betterment of the cannabis community. Universities have the resources and student populations to execute in-house cannabis education for millions of students to legitimize the industry. Still, miseducation runs rampant on college campuses. The time is now to prepare the next generation of cannabis leaders. In the digital age, the cannabis community must find ways to utilize social media and the internet more generally to educate, connect, and break down the stigmas for the youngest, brightest minds to fuel innovation.

Living Life on the Offense: Brain Health Initiatives in 2018

Time: 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Eric Hipple, Gus Frerrote

Brain Health is a vital, yet often neglected area of wellness. RC21X is a new way to monitor and be proactive with how well your brain is performing. Gus Frerrotte of RC21x and Eric Hipple will showcase new technologies to live life on the offense. Hipple is a former National Football League (NFL) quarterback who spent his ten year career with the Detroit Lions. Since his 15-year-old son Jeff’s suicide in 2000, Hipple has devoted his life to building awareness and breaking down the stigma surrounding depressive illnesses, and providing innovative ways to address treatments

From Cultivation Site to Dispensary Showroom: Seed2Sale Operational Technologies

Time: 10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
Speakers: Jeff Kiehn

Learn how to utilize industry-specific technology and create a strong foundation for your cannabusiness. Receive a comprehensive overview on seed to sale tracking, Track and Trace software, and discover new innovations that can help maximize workflow efficiencies. Understand how to maintain compliance while building your business for sustained growth.

Investing in Publicly Traded Cannabis Companies

Time: 10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
Speakers: Marco Hegyi, Chand Jagpal, Tim McGraw

As recently predicted by Forbes, cannabis will be a 1 billion dollar industry within the next three years. With this exciting news just on the horizon, the time to invest in cannabis stocks is now. The Investing in Publicly Traded Companies Speaker Panel will offer advice from some of the most successful executives in the cannabis industry whose companies have gone public and are trading on the market.

Dedication to Medication: How to Accurately Develop, Dose, and Promote Your Infused-Product Line with the Patient in Mind

Time: 10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
Speakers: Nadeem Al-Hasan

The infused-product sector of the cannabis industry is a booming market, both recreationally and medically. However, whether an edible is tailored for patients or consumers, accurate dosing is key. Products that are consistent and reliable, build brand loyalty and offer families dependable and safe treatment alternatives. Learn proper dosing and extraction techniques, and how to partner with dispensaries and cultivators from Nadeem Al-Hasan, co-founder of award-winning edibles company Baked Bros.

Talking to Your Children About Cannabis

Time: 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
Speakers: Theresa Nightingale

When they were younger, many hid their cannabis use from their parents. Now many consumers are hiding it from their kids. Learn how to effectively talk to your children about medical marijuana.

Increasing Sales in the Medical Market for Cultivators and Dispensary Owners

Time: 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
Speakers: Lilach Mazor Power

Tools and tips on increasing sales without upselling to patients and how to keep yourself and your company laser focused with so many opportunities.

In the Know: Cannabis Science, QC Testing & Academic Research Updates

Time: 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Josh Crossney, Janie Maedler, Dr. Mowgli Holmes

As cannabis becomes more mainstream, the need for safe, clean and reliable cannabis is at an all time high. How can we ensure consistency and the highest quality cannabis for patients and consumers? This presentation will look at new testing methodologies and technologies for 2018.

Hemp Oil or Cannabis Oil? What’s the Difference?

Time:  12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Speakers: Dr. Regina Nelson
CME Credits: 1

Are CBD-rich products made using Hemp Oil the same as those produced with Medical Cannabis? The short answer is no, they are not the same—but that doesn’t mean both don’t have a place in medicine. This session provides an in-depth explanation of the known differences between cannabis sativa and cannabis ruderalis oils. The botany of the plant, it’s known bio-accumulation traits, and the importance of terpenes are a few of the important differences to be discussed. Finally, an exploration of how CBD enhances THC’s painkilling and anticancer properties, while lessening the euphoria associated with cannabis sativa will be undertaken. AMA-1 credit is pending A.A.F.P. approval for this session.

The Different Faces of Technology in Cannabis

Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM
Speakers: Brian Mackay, Megan Rideout

This informative panel will cover how to effectively market and brand technology for both recreational and medical markets. Learn from top investors and entrepreneurs as they share their insight and personal business journeys.

Opioid Epidemic and Natural Solutions

Time: 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Speakers: Dr. Nate Riddle

Cannabis Appraisal and Financial Management: Hot and Emerging Issues

Time:  1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Speakers: Ron Seigneur
CPE Credits: 2 / CLE Credits: 2

The advent of a legal[1], expanding, regulated industry involving a plant that has been actively cultivated for thousands of years has given birth to a host of challenges for owners, investors and professional advisors. This session will focus on the economic aspects that must be considered for any enterprise associated with the industry.

* You must stay for entire two hours to receive up to two (2) course credits.

The Suit Against Sessions

Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Jose Belen, Sebastien Cotte, Marvin Washington, Patrick Nightingale
Moderator: Senator Daylin Leach

Meet industry advocates Jose Belen and Marvin Washington who have brought a suit against Jeff Sessions in favor of the legal cannabis industry. Attorney Patrick Nightingale will provide legal context, and a Q&A session will follow this main stage event.

Patient Education

Time: 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Speakers: Phil Cohen

Today, digital screens can be seen in every type of customer-facing business, which means you see them where you shop, where you bank, at quick-serve restaurants, movie theaters, college campuses, airports, hospitals and in doctor’s offices. What makes digital screens so effective is that they are used to communicate information to specialized audiences in specific locations in customer-facing businesses, most often at point of purchase.

Verbal Dry Ice Extraction Demo with Cannabis Chef Captain Kirk

Time: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Speakers: Captain Kirk, Michael Hensel

Cannabis infused edibles are becoming increasingly popular for many consumers and patients who want a healthier and more discreet way to consume their cannabis. However, many do not know how to properly make these edibles in their own kitchens. This panel will go over how to appropriately dose and cook Cannabutter for desired results.

CCC Medical Round Table: Top Doctors Discuss Cannabis Advancements in Different Fields

Time: 2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Dr. Jeanette Jacknin, Benjamin Caplan, MD, Dr. Lawrence Bagnell
Moderator: Dr. Bryan Doner

Even as cannabis becomes increasingly popular, there is still much to discover. This panel will discuss the future of cannabis advancements in the across a broad spectrum of medical fields, as well as where current research is at and what the current findings are showing.

Cannabis Goes Mainstream: Understanding the Cannabis Media Landscape and How to Get Noticed

Time: 2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Speakers: Javier Hasse, Neko Catanzaro
Moderator: David Hodes

Now that more than half of the adult population in the U.S. has access to cannabis, the potential for national media coverage is at an all-time high. This interactive panel will offer insight on how to maximize brand visibility and generate media attention with proven tactcs, a systematic approach, and finesse. Learn how to build a network of contacts and penetrate local, regional, and national outlets. Audience members will learn how to develop and tell their brand story for their target audience with the media in mind.

Case Studies: Cannabis & Concussions Through the Forensic Lens

Time: 3:00 PM – 3:45 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Dr. Cyril Wecht

Renowned forensic scientist Dr. Cyril Wecht will share his insight on the therapeutic utilization of cannabinoids for appropriate medical conditions, and the latest concussion research.

The Supremacy Clause – The Continuing Battle Between State and Federal Jurisdiction

Time: 2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Speakers: Patrick Nightingale

What is the Supremacy Clause and how can it undo literally decades of state level reform? This keynote will discuss the push and pull between state reform and federal prohibition and its practical effects on states with medicinal cannabis programs.

Securing Success: Post-License Steps to Building a Compliant and Secure Cannabusiness

Time: 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
Speakers: Robert Cormier, Stephen B. Hall, Robert Kassoff
Moderator: Eric Schlissel

After winning a license, the real work begins. the necessary post-license steps to take before launching, with a special emphasis on security compliance. This discussion will focus on the basics of integrated CCTV and Access Control solutions for Dispensaries – what to look for and what to avoid, actual solutions and how to meet and be approved by the state inspections.

Cannabis & Athletics: A New Era of Sports Medicine

Time: 4:15 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Main Stage
Speakers: Eben Britton, Riley Cote, Darren McCarty, Frank Shamrock, Marvin Washington
Moderator: Jim McAlpine

Athletes For CARE is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness for important issues facing professional athletes and the public at large, including addiction, chronic pain, access to alternative medicines, mental health, CTE and traumatic brain injury. We are an organization founded by pro athletes who are uniting as one voice to advocate for research, education and compassion when addressing these challenges.

Gateway Clipper Riverboat Cruise and Fundraiser

Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

The Gateway Clipper Cruise will sail along the steel city’s famed Three Rivers, from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., on Friday, April 13. The evening event is open to the public and provides an opportunity to socialize with some of the most recognized leaders and entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry.