In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, we sit down with Cory Lake, CEO of Lake Group Insurance, to break down the real challenges facing Minnesota’s cannabis and hemp businesses, from rising insurance premiums and compliance pressure to market volatility and the federal hemp ban. Cory shares insight on the future of the Minnesota cannabis industry, what dispensaries and hemp operators need to prepare for next, and how his recent merger with World Insurance Associates expands resources for cannabis operators. The conversation also touches on industry consolidation, MSOs, offering a clear look at cannabis insurance, risk management, and business survival in Minnesota.

Getting licensed is just the beginning. In Minnesota’s newly opened adult-use market, the real challenge is staying operational in a supply-strained, high-expectation environment.

In this episode of The Canna Connect Show, host Stephen Eigenmann sits down with Gus Sevastos of Dutchie to unpack what Minnesota cannabis operators are actually facing as the market enters 2026.

As the early “gold rush” gives way to the grind, Stephen and Gus break down the realities behind the headlines—from limited wholesale supply and testing bottlenecks to why culture and community are becoming survival tools for dispensaries.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why 40+ Minnesota retailers are competing for product from a handful of wholesalers
• How operators can manage overhead in a margin-tight market
• What Dutchie is changing in its platform to support supply-constrained states
• Why “Names to Faces” networking matters more than menus and marketing
• The difference between getting licensed—and building something that lasts
• Plus: a quick football detour, because culture still matters off the clock too

Whether you’re an operator, aspiring entrepreneur, or industry professional watching Minnesota’s rollout closely, this conversation offers a clear-eyed look at what it really takes to succeed after the doors open.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

🔗 Connect with Gus Sevastos

Dutchie: https://business.dutchie.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-sevastos

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

📬 Join The Cannaverse

Get Minnesota cannabis insights, event announcements, and industry updates delivered straight to your inbox:
👉 https://cannaverse-newsletter.beehiiv.com

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

🎙 Sponsored by the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE)

In a market where every dollar counts, CEE helps cannabis operators lower overhead through free energy consultations and LED lighting rebates.
Learn more: https://www.mncee.org/growLED

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

🌱 About Canna Connect MN

Canna Connect is Minnesota’s community hub for cannabis education, networking, and growth—bringing together operators, professionals, and consumers through trusted conversations and real-world events.

Rachelle Gordon is the editor of GreenState, a cannabis news and lifestyle media outlet. An award-winning cannabis journalist, Emerald Cup judge, and Budist critic, Rachelle began her weed writing journey in 2015. She has been featured in High Times, CannabisNow, Beard Bros, MG, Skunk, and many other industry publications. Rachelle was the recipient of the Cannabis Journalist of the Year award at the 2025 Emjays and the Community Cultivator trophy at the 2024 Women's Canna Awards. She is also the two-time host of the California Cannabis Awards at the California State Fair. Follow Rachelle on Instagram @rachellethewriter