Harvest of Ohio, Author at Harvest of OH | Ohio Dispensaries Near Me

A Message From Our CEO

Please direct any questions to our Director of Community and Public Relations, Jeane’ Holley at jeane@harvestofoh.com

The plants themselves guide my priorities, and as their main caretaker, it is my responsibility to ensure that their needs are met in a timely and effective manner. By keeping a close eye on their growth and responding to their needs, I can ensure that our plants thrive and produce high-quality medicine for our patients.

Q: What have you done to ensure that cultivation is always growing and developing?

As the Director of Cultivation, it is crucial to ensure that our cultivation practices are always evolving and improving. To achieve this, I have focused on building a skilled and knowledgeable team of cultivators who share my passion for cannabis cultivation. It is the collective effort of our team that allows us to continually grow and develop our cultivation practices. By fostering a culture of learning, collaboration, and innovation, we can ensure that our greenhouse remains at the forefront of the industry and continues to produce high-quality cannabis medicine for our patients.

Q:What makes the medical cannabis industry different from any other?

The cannabis industry is unique in many ways, but what sets it apart most of all is the shared passion and commitment that everyone involved in it has for the plant and its many benefits. Whether you are a cultivator, a dispensary owner, a patient, or just a casual enthusiast, there is a sense of camaraderie and community that permeates the industry and makes it unlike any other.

Q: Can you name your favorite activity you’ve done with Harvest of OH?

One of my favorite activities that I’ve done with Harvest of OH was attending the one year event in Ironton at the greenhouse. It was a fantastic opportunity to bring together members of our Harvest of OH family and celebrate the progress that we had made in just one year of operation. The event was a wonderful showcase of the hard work and dedication that our team had put into building the company and serving our patients. It was also a chance for us to connect with patients and members of the local community and share our passion for the medical cannabis industry. Being able to see so many members of our team in one place was truly special. It reminded me of the importance of working together as a team and the power of our collective efforts to make a positive impact on the lives of our patients. Overall, the one year event was a memorable and meaningful experience, and it served as a testament to the great things that we can accomplish when we work together with passion and dedication.

Q: How does it feel to be working at a company that is family oriented?

Working at a family oriented company like ours is an amazing experience. It fosters a sense of community, support, and belonging that is truly unique, and it makes coming to work each day a joy. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of such a wonderful team!

Q: What do you think is the most essential professional skill in your position?

Problem solving is an essential skill for anyone in a leadership position, and particularly important in the fast paced and ever changing world of cannabis cultivation. It is what keeps the job interesting and rewarding, and allows us to continuously improve our processes and better serve our patients.

Q:What is your favorite show or movie to keep rewatching?

My favorite show to keep rewatching is definitely Castle. It’s a show that has something for everyone. A combination of comedy, romance, suspense, and drama that keeps me entertained.

Q:What is your favorite thing to do whenever you have free time?

Whenever I have free time, my favorite thing to do is to unwind and spend time with my loved ones. Depending on the season, my favorite activities might vary, but right now I’m really looking forward to enjoying the warm weather and relaxing in my pool with my girlfriend, Candice, and our furry friends, Harper and Kingston.

Q:If you could guess a number, how many pairs of shoes do you own?

If I had to guess, I would say that I don’t own enough shoes! Although, if crocs count, then that might change things a bit. All jokes aside, probably only around 10 pairs.

Q: Are you a cat or a dog person? Why?

If I had to choose between being a dog or cat person, I would have to say that I lean more towards being a dog person. That’s not to say that I don’t appreciate cats and their unique personalities, but there’s just something special about the bond that humans share with dogs.
Dogs are known for their loyalty, playfulness, and unconditional love, and they truly become a part of the family. They’re always there to greet you when you come home, provide comfort when you’re feeling down, and bring endless joy and laughter to your life.

Q:If you could meet your younger self, what would you be surprised by?

I think I would be amazed at the level of self-motivation and determination that I exhibited, especially considering that I didn’t always have a lot of external support or encouragement. I was often my own biggest fan, pushing myself to keep going and striving for success even when things seemed difficult or impossible.
Looking back, I think that this tenacity and ambition were the key factors that helped me get to where I am today. Whether it was pursuing my career goals, overcoming personal challenges, or just striving to be the best version of myself, I always had a strong sense of purpose and a deep desire to make a difference in the world.
So, if I could meet my younger self today, I think I would be proud of the person that I was and grateful for the inner strength and resilience that helped me get to where I am today.

Q: What is the most beautiful place you’ve seen in person?

One of the most breathtaking places I’ve seen in person is Lookout Mountain, where Buffalo Bill’s grave is located. It was my first experience to be up on a mountain and see the world from that vantage point.

Spotlight – Jazmine C.

Our corporate office is full of incredible people who believe in hard work and having fun along the way. Meet Jazmine Couch, our Licensing and Special Projects Manager. Tasked with planning all of our amazing events and group outings, she is behind the licensing process of our wonderful staff and all of the fantastic bonding moments that we’ve been able to share in our two years of operation.

Q: What professional projects or milestones are you most proud of?

Implementing our employee engagement calendar. We wanted to make sure we focused on activities for everyone to be able to do over the year, like cultivation tours, group outings, and fun holiday activities.

Q: What surprised you about the medical marijuana industry?

The medical marijuana industry is full of surprises. It surprises me to know that even after so many people benefit from the goodness of cannabis, it is still federally illegal, and there are still so many people out there that aren’t educated on how many benefits medical marijuana has, and how far it has come in such a short amount of time.

Q:Can you explain your approach to overcoming difficult tasks?

I like to write all of my tasks out and then just tackle them one by one.

Q: Who inspired you to pursue the career you have today?

I am inspired daily by our incredible CEO, Ariane Kirkpatrick. Not only did she break into an industry that was difficult to get into, but she is also thriving and succeeding along the way. There have been ups and downs, but her business savvy and tenacity have made us a force in this industry, and I’m honored to contribute to this legacy in any way I can.

Q: What has been your biggest success factor in your position? Why?

Getting all of our employees licensed in order to open up our stores. Licensing and compliance are integral parts of this business. I had no idea where to begin with licensing, and now I am a pro at it!

Q: What is your favorite holiday? Why?

My favorite holiday is Christmas. My whole life, my family has gone all out for Christmas, and it brings me joy to be able to give to others and put smiles on their faces while spending time with loved ones.

Q:If you were a celebrity, what would you be famous for?

I would be famous for being an activist. I have a passion for fighting for and standing up to inequality and injustice.

Q:What is one thing you would never do again?

Go kayaking on vacation. I was talked into going on a 5-mile kayak trip while vacationing in the Siesta Keys. We got rained on, saw alligators and every bug you can imagine, and the next day my arms were on fire. I would have rather been on the beach!

Q:At this moment, what are you most excited about? Why?

I love crafting and creating. I just got a new Cricut that I’m eager to try out. I also love, love, love cooking and yoga. Grocery shopping and cooking are meditations for me.

Q: Do you have any hobbies? If so, what are they?

If animals could talk, I think the dog would be the smartest.

Spotlight – Sudden-Joi H

Sudden-Joi is our amazing Shift Supervisor at Harvest of Beavercreek. Making sure that day-to-day functions are carried out and improving everyone’s mood, Sudden-Joi works hard to raise efficiency for all of our patients.

Q: What does being a part of Harvest of OH mean to you?

Being a part of Harvest Of OH means being able to be a part of an opportunity to me. Not only an opportunity to educate people on the goodness of cannabis, but an opportunity to be a Black woman in a male dominated industry.

Q: As you work, what standards do you aim to meet?

As I work, I aim to give all of our patients an experience that they will value from Harvest Of Beavercreek.

Q:How do you make sure that patients have a positive experience at Harvest?

Fulfilling needs from start to finish. I always try to ensure that every patient leaves Harvest satisfied.

Q: What do you do to make yourself a person everyone can rely on?

One thing I try to do is to be personable with the staff and a person that they know cares about them inside and outside of work.

Q: How do you ensure that communication between you and your co-workers is streamlined?

I make sure that tasks, needs, roles, etc are communicated clearly and at the start of our day in our morning H.I.T.

Q: Are there any qualities you feel you already exemplified before stepping into a shift supervisor role? Are there any you gained after?

I think I exemplified the qualities of a leader before I stepped into my shift supervisor role. I definitely think that I’m learning how to be more vocal that I’ve actually stepped into the role. I’ve learned how to use my voice as not only a leader, but a voice of reason as well when it comes to issues.

Q: If you could only have one song playing all day, what would it be?

It would definitely be Dangerously In Love 2 by Beyoncé. She’s my favorite artist of all time and it’s nothing like her early singles.

Q:What is your favorite fragrance?

My favorite fragrance at the moment is Daisy Love by Marc Jacobs. It’s the perfect light, sweet scent for the spring.

Q:If you had to leave one of the four seasons of the year behind, which one would it be?

If I had to leave one of the four seasons behind, it would definitely be the Winter. It’s pretty to look at from the inside with the heat, but definitely too cold outside.

Q:What is a funny unpopular opinion you have?

A room can never have too many pink items.

Q: If animals could talk, what species would be the smartest?

If animals could talk, I think the dog would be the smartest.

Q: What is a fact about you that many are unaware of?

I am terrified of cats. One of my top fears is being trapped in a room with cats.

Spotlight – Amonica D

It doesn't happen often that a family-run business can develop to the extent that Harvest of OH has! Partnering with her sister and CEO, Ariane Kirkpatrick, Amonica has worked tirelessly to support Ariane’s vision by creating a business system to ensure the company’s success and direct it down a sustainable path. We celebrate Women’s History Month with a woman who has undoubtedly made an impact on the industry and all of our lives here at Harvest of OH.

Q: As the only woman, minority-owned vertically integrated cannabis company in Ohio, what have you done to ensure that others receive the same opportunity as well?

We have been very transparent and shared the story of our successes and challenges since being awarded dispensary, cultivation, and processing licenses in Ohio. We have shared that the hard work comes long before. Entrepreneurs must continue to sharpen their business skills and stay prepared so that when such opportunities present themselves, they don’t have to get ready because they already are. They understand their profit and loss statements, they’ve established a network of business professionals, including a lawyer, a banker, and an accountant, and they’ve served the community of which they live.

Q: How does it feel to be a part of Black History?

I share with our team all of the time that we will forever be in the history books and that is part of our collective legacy. In the midst of it all, we came, we see, and we are conquering barriers. Blessed be those that we bring along and those that follow in our footsteps and continue down this road less traveled.

Q: How has your previous experience prepared you for entrepreneurship?

My husband, John Davis, Jr. and I have owned a ServiceMaster franchise for over 15 years, serving commercial cleaning customers in Cleveland and the surrounding communities.

Q: Was there a moment where you questioned whether or not you would end up where you are right now?

No.

Q: What habits have you cemented in your daily routine to prepare for success?

Daily, I am reading business or cannabis-related articles to expand my knowledge and broaden my expertise in this forever-changing cannabis industry of which we all find ourselves.

Q:A healthy work-life balance is so important, how do you maintain it and handle stress?

Every place I have ever worked, I have been fortunate to find a group of people that I really vibe with and enjoy their company and the talent that they bring to the workplace. So even when we have to put in those 10–12-hour days, it doesn’t seem off balance, but more like a community of like-minded people sharing their hearts and stretching their minds to create something bigger than themselves.

Q: What is your favorite book?

My favorite book is always the one I’m reading at that particular time. So now, it is “One Day My Soul Just Opened Up,” by Iyanla Vanzant, given to me recently by a dear friend. In it she discusses how our own insecurities and fears can block our emotional and spiritual health, and shares inspiring stories, experiences, and exercises that tap into your very essence, your soul.

Q: 8) If you could name a Harvest strain after you, what would you name it?

Boomshakalaka😊…look it up!

Q:If you were stuck on a deserted island, what item would you take?

A staff, a long rod painted red, black and green.

Q: What was your favorite toy as a child?

All of my many stuffed animals that I loved to play with, talk to and “take care of.”

Q: What’s the most exciting vacation you’ve ever been on?

Last year to Jamaica! It was an extended family vacation that began with the wedding of my dear first-born, Naja, to her amazing partner, McWayne Flowers who is from Linstead, a small town in the parish of St. Catherine, outside of Montego Bay.

Q: You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?

Boomshakalaka😊…you know its meaning now!

Women’s History Month

As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, we are reminded of how far we have come and how far we have to go. With this year’s theme being “Embracing Equity," the ladies of our Executive Leadership Team sat down to discuss the difference between equity and equality. As a team that connects, enlightens, and empowers, Harvest of OH takes pride in breaking the glass ceiling. Our team not only believes in diversity and inclusion, we live it, by creating an equitable community through education, wealth, and ownership opportunities.

Spotlight – Noah T

Meet Noah, our incredible General Manager at our Beavercreek location. Noah has been with us since the beginning and has demonstrated a strong passion for the industry. Working tirelessly to ensure that our patients receive the best care possible and that our employees are supported, Noah keeps everything running like a well-oiled machine.

Q: As a general manager, what principles are you devoted to upholding?

My first principle is to make sure the patient gets the product they need vs. the products that they don’t need.Nothing could be worse than a patient coming in for the first time and getting something that doesn’t help their needs.

Q: What is the most important element to leadership?

The most important element to leadership is listening and communication skills.My staff doesn’t dread coming to work every day because they know they have a manager that takes their needs and wants into account heavily.

Q: What was the best team-building activity you participated in at Harvest?

We’ve had so many in our short time– it’s hard to pick. My favorite is anytime Ariane and the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) comes through to Harvest of Beavercreek.We typically get dinner with the staff after work and the ELT gets to sit back and see the well-oiled machine run throughout the day.

Q: How has working at Harvest of Ohio affected your perception of this industry?

The Cannabis industry moves at light speed. I’m immensely excited to see where it will land in 2024 with legislation being introduced for cannabis legalization.The stigma of cannabis and marijuana is a tough one to overcome, but the industry has overcoming the stigma at the forefront of it’s to-do list.

Q:How do you establish positive working relationships with your staff?

Trust and communication is the best policy.When you listen and trust your staff, they will give you the respect that is earned as a manager. Then, when the hard conversations come around, they are easier to have.

Q:What is your biggest takeaway in your career so far?

Enjoy your days off!There are so many times where I would feel like I’m not doing a good job and I’m too hard on myself. There will always be something new to do and there are times when you have to tell yourself: “The team will survive one day without you”.

Q: If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Rebel a little.All through high school I was a well-behaved kid. I didn’t go out and party, I never missed a curfew, and I had pretty decent grades. I’m sure even my parents would agree that I could have opened up and experienced more things in my younger days.

Q: Which family member are you closest to?

My brothers, Jackson and Daniel, are my best friends.They were the best men at my wedding and we hang out every week. Whether it be playing some games or going bowling we are having the best time when in each other’s company.

Q:What was the first thing you bought with your very first paycheck?

Money was tight for sure then–I think it went mostly to bills.

Q:Is there an odd combination of food that you really enjoy?

My old roommate made peanut butter and cheese sandwich one day.It’s not something I crave, but he told me not to knock it until I tried it. I was skeptical but, I tried it and it was pretty good.

Q:If you could have a super power, what would it be?

Super speed or invisibility.I’d never have to pay for gas again or I could be a fly on the wall in so many important conversations.

Q:What is the craziest thing you believed as a child?

That cannabis had no medicinal benefits!

Spotlight – Malik B

Open all year round, our Ironton facility works hard to provide patients with the highest quality products possible. We would like to introduce you to Malik B. Malik has exhibited such growth and passion as a Cultivation Associate, we are so proud to announce that he is now our new Fertigation and Propagation Lead!

Q: How would you describe the culture you experience at Harvest?

The culture at Harvest of Ohio is goal oriented. Most everyone is on the same page about helping the patients that we serve.

Q: Do you feel that you are making history in the medical marijuana industry? Why?

Absolutely, every day that harvest of Ohio stays open works to change the stigma of cannabis in Ohio. Both medically and as a plant.

Q: What do you want to accomplish in your new leadership position?

My biggest goal is to get everybody on the same page as far as standards of operation, consistency, and communication throughout the department. If everyone feels like part of a team, we can perform as a team.

Q: What is your favorite part about coming to work?

100% the plants. There’s something very therapeutic about being around that many living organisms in the same room.

Q:How would you say that the medical marijuana industry is different than any other industry?

What sets the medical marijuana industry apart from others is that you have several different types of roles in the same industry. From cultivation and plant work, marketing and sales, processing, deliveries, to management and public relations, there really is a role for anyone interested in joining the industry.

Q:What motivates you to create change in your job?

My biggest motivator is the growing nature of the company. Just like the seedlings we use in cultivation it’s important to do things right from the beginning with anything that you want to grow. Be it a plant or a startup company.

Q: What is your favorite TV show?

My favorite tv show is The Simpsons. It’s a ridiculous cartoon but at the heart it’s a family show and I’ve always liked that.

Q: How many languages do you speak?

Fluently I speak one language but I’m working on pig-Latin.

Q:Are you an introvert or an extrovert?

I would say I get my energy from others but make it a priority to have alone time. I guess that makes me an introvert.

Q:What is your favorite childhood memory?

My favorite childhood memory is when I first learned to ride a bike. It took all day but my family, cousins too, all stayed out there until I got it. I didn’t understand why they were so sure I would get it but I did. That’s a great feeling.

Q:If you could do anything new for one day, what would it be?

Scuba diving. I love the water so being able to breath in water for a day would be amazing.

Q:What genres of music do you listen to?

I like all kinds of music but lately I’ve been into indie and house music pretty exclusively.

Spotlight – Adrienne K

Everyday, our dispensary associates serve as the backbone of our stores, guiding and informing our incredible patients. We would like you to meet our amazing dispensary associate, Adrienne Krantz.

Q: What inspired you to work in the medical marijuana industry?

I have always loved horticulture and the healing effects of cannabis. I knew I wanted to be a part of the growing cannabis industry in one aspect or another. A friend encouraged me to check out the Cleveland School of Cannabis. Once I got started learning more I couldn’t get enough!

Q: What is the most important aspect of your job as a Dispensary Associate?

I think it is a balance of upholding state law and maintaining patient satisfaction. It is imperative for patient and employee safety that the rules are followed, and it is important that the patients are satisfied overall with their products and the service we provide.

Q: What kinds of challenges do you face in your position?

Finding the best product for each patient’s individual needs can sometimes be challenging. In our area there are also a lot of patients with really sad stories. Being a strong listener and a having a positive attitude is crucial.

Q:What has been your proudest moment with the company so far?

Becoming a key holder for the company after two months was my favorite moment with Harvest so far. I am excited for more big milestones in the near future!

Q:What advice would you give to someone interested in working in the medical marijuana industry?

First, get educated. There are so many great cannabis programs out there that can escalate your position within the cannabis industry. Second, network. Knowing the right people can earn you the best opportunities. Third, advocate for cannabis legalization. Every voice counts!

Q:How has your previous experience prepared you for this one-of-a-kind opportunity?

As a former bartender and restaurant manager, I have a lot of customer service experience that I use when working with patients. The leadership skills I gained as an Executive Assistant help when working with newer team members. I also have my own professional organizing business in Columbus, so I am very good at keeping the store organized!

Q:What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love spending time with my two dogs, Murphy and Kona. We love to go to the park or to the Athens Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. I also love to read a variety of different books.

Q:Do you have any hidden talents?

I was a French major in college and learned Spanish working in kitchens. My vocabulary is limited, but my accent is still pretty good!

Q:What is one place on the planet that you would love to visit?

Italy! I am a pasta addict and would love to try every kind of pasta and pizza in every city of Italy.

Q:Who is your favorite comedian and why?

I love any Adam Sandler movie! I like Taylor Tomlinson a lot too. She is young and has a funny, fresh perspective on life.

Q: What, in your opinion, is the most exciting aspect of life?

Traveling and seeing the world is my favorite part of life. I love discovering different landscapes and learning about other cultures. There is always something new to explore!

Q:Who is your hero and why?

Jane West is my favorite role model in the cannabis industry. The founder of Edible Events Company, she started by hosting cannabis-friendly Friday night cocktail parties. Like me, she is good at organizing people and getting a lot done in a short amount of time. She pivoted her focus and founded Women Grow, organizing women-led initiatives in the cannabis industry.

She believes diversity is crucial to success (80% of her company is owned by women and people of color) and she cares about the companies she partners with. I hope to one day be as successful and impactful in the cannabis industry!

Spotlight – Reshima J

Today, we'd like to highlight Reshima Jackson, our incredible accountant. She has been with the company since its inception and has done an outstanding job. We are grateful to have such a dedicated employee who has repeatedly demonstrated the importance of staying true to oneself.

Q: How many years of experience do you have in financing

27

Q: What aspect or your job do you like the most?

Working in a family like environment

Q: What are some of the challenges withing in the Medical Marijuana industry?

Navigating an industry that is legal on the state level but illegal federally, specifically the tax code 280E that disallows the deduction of “ordinary and necessary” business expenses

Q: How have you grown professionally while on our team?

I’m constantly being educated on the Medical Marijuana industry

Q: How do you keep yourself motivated at work?

Our CEO is motivational and inspirational, I always strive to represent the CEO positively and professionally

Q: What is the biggest impact you would like to leave on the company?

Great work ethic

Q: What is your dream vacation?

Any country in Africa, but specifically Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Ghana, Eritrea, Zanzibar, Madagascar, or Morocco

Q: If you could name your own strain of flower, what would it be?

Chocolate Baby

Q: Tell us about a unique experience?

Touring the Sistine Chapel and learning that Vatican City is an independent country`

Q: What is something about you that most people don’t know?

I’m a Nerd

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Working for Harvest of Ohio and having visited at least 5 African countries

Q:If you could change anything in the world, what would it be?

Less judgement, more grace most of us are trying our best

Author: Harvest of Ohio

Q: How do you determine what takes priority in your role?