Whoopi Goldberg with Whoop-Tea

Whoopi Goldberg to Participate in Fireside Chat at CMB, Launching Hemp- Derived Beverage “Whoop-Tea”

Whoopi Goldberg to Participate in Fireside Chat at CMB, Launching Hemp- Derived Beverage “Whoop-Tea”

 

Leading Cannabis Means Business (CMB) Trade Show and Conference, Takes Place June 4-5 at the Javits Center in New York

 

(New York, New York, May 2025)—Cannabis Means Business (CMB) is thrilled to announce that Whoopi Goldberg—Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award- winning entertainer and entrepreneur—will take the stage at CMB 2025, happening June 4–5 at the Javits Center in New York City, to launch her new hemp-derived beverage, Whoop-Tea.

 

Goldberg will sit down with CNBC’s Tim Seymour on Wednesday, June 4, for an exclusive conversation in the Special Events Area on the CMB exhibit floor. The discussion will dive into the fast-rising cannabis beverage market and the vision behind Whoop-Tea, her collaboration with leading cannabis beverage brand Pure Genesis.

 

“I wanted to create something that’s fun, relaxing, and brings people together— without the hangover,” said Whoopi Goldberg. “Whoop-Tea is exactly that. It’s tea, it’s lemonade, it’s THC, and it’s all about unwinding and enjoying the moment. I’m excited to bring this to CMB and to be part of this incredible shift in wellness culture.”

 

With the global cannabis beverage market valued at $1.16 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $3 billion this year, the category is one of the fastest-growing segments in cannabis.

 

Pure Genesis, known for its innovation and mission-driven approach, has partnered with Goldberg to launch Whoop-Tea—a non-alcoholic hemp-derived THC mocktail that blends iced tea and lemonade for a smooth, refreshing experience. Pure Genesis will have a major presence on the CMB exhibit floor and its Co-Founder and CEO, Faye Coleman, will participate in the Women in Cannabis Entrepreneurship Luncheon on Thursday, June 5th. She will share her journey of starting a successful cannabis business in one of the most challenging industries in the world.

 

“We’re thrilled to partner with Whoopi, a cultural icon who shares our passion for quality, community, and breaking stigma,” said Faye Coleman, CEO and Co- Founder of Pure Genesis. “Whoop-Tea represents a new era of cannabis wellness—where the product is elevated, inclusive, and truly enjoyable.”

 

“Whoop-Tea is what happens when passion meets purpose,” added Priscilla Wynn, co-founder of Pure Genesis. “It’s a celebration of flavor, culture, and community—and a testament to what’s possible when visionary women lead.”

 

Whoopi Goldberg & Tim Seymour in Fireside Chat, Wednesday, June 4 at CMB
Whoopi Goldberg & Tim Seymour in Fireside Chat, Wednesday, June 4 at CMB

 

CMB 2025 Highlights with Whoopi Goldberg and Pure Genesis:

 

  • Fireside Chat: Whoopi Goldberg in conversation with Tim Seymour, Wednesday, June 4, Special Events Area. A can’t-miss session for trend- spotters and industry leaders.
  • B2B Networking Bash Sponsorship: Attendees will get to sample Whoop-Tea firsthand, courtesy of Pure Genesis, official sponsor of the B2B Bash on Tuesday, June 3, at the Yotel.
  • Women in Cannabis Entrepreneurship Luncheon, Thursday, June 5, in the Special Events Area with Faye Coleman, Co-Founder and CEO of Pure Genesis.

 

“CMB is all about bringing together bold voices and visionary brands to drive the future of cannabis,” said Christine Ianuzzi, CEO of CMB. “Whoopi’s involvement, and the launch of Whoop-Tea with Pure Genesis, is the kind of high-impact moment that defines what our event is all about.”

 

Cannabis Means Business (CMB) is a new vision for the show previously run as CWCBExpo. CMB will offer an expansive exhibit floor and a diverse slate of industry-leading speakers, presenting insightful addresses, educational sessions and workshops designed to address the complexities of operating within the regional, national, and global cannabis marketplace.

 

In addition there will be a Cannabis Workforce Job Fair, hosted by the Cannabis Workforce Initiative, and networking events including the B2B Bash and the O2VAPE industry Yacht Party.

 

Don’t miss this landmark moment at the intersection of culture, cannabis, and commerce.

 

Register Today to take advantage of pre-show pricing at the premier industry event  https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/2025-registration/.  For more information on exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities visit; https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/exhibiting-sponsoring/

 

About Cannabis Means Business (CMB)

 

Cannabis Means Business (CMB), formerly CWCBExpo, is the premier North American trade show and conference for professionals and companies who are serious about growth, innovation and building their business in cannabis.  As champions of a responsible, ethical, sustainable and profitable cannabis ecosystem, CMB reflects the vibrancy and complexity of New York City—a global hub for business, innovation and the cannabis supply chain. Visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com

 

Rosen Group PR Contacts: raquel@rosengrouppr.com and @rosengrouppr.com CMB PR Contact: press@cannabismeansbusiness.com; 201-310-9252

CMB Press Release

Speakers, Panels and Networking Opportunities Announced for CMB in New York

Speakers, Panels and Networking Opportunities Announced for Cannabis Means Business in New York

 

Cannabis Workforce Initiative Job Fair, Women in Cannabis Luncheon, and more at the premier cannabis industry trade show and conference, June 4-5 in NYC

(New York, New York, May 2025)—Cannabis Means Business (CMB), the industry’s premier business to business conference and expo, today shared new details on their schedule of panels and presentations, along with new programming, exhibitions and networking opportunities. Speakers have also been announced, including CNBC Fast Money trader Tim Seymour; Philip Wolf, a pioneer of the cannabis hospitality sector; and Dr. Chanda Macias, CEO of Women Grow.

 

Taking place June 4-5 2025 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City, the epicenter of commerce and innovation, the 11th annual CMB (formerly the CWCBExpo) will bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and advocates from across the rapidly growing cannabis sector. The conference will feature in-depth panel discussions, presentations and workshops that will shape the industry’s future both within New York and worldwide, with topics such as:

  • The Investment Renegades Changing the Face of Cannabis: Has cannabis funding turned from green to yellow?
    Featuring Tim Seymour, Founder & CIO, Seymour Asset Management, and Co-Host, CNBC Fast Money; Will Muecke, Co-Founder and Managing Member of Artemis Growth Partners; Neil Managing Member, Kaufman McGowan PLLC; Steve Gelsi, MarketWatch reporter; Josephine Giordano, Senior Director, Financial Forensics and Business Valuation Services Group and Cannabis Tax & Advisory Group, BeachFleischman PLLC; Aida Sy, PhD. and Adam Rosenberg, President, Vlasic Bioscience.
  • Infusion from the Beverage Industry: How far has it come into cannabis, and where is it heading?
    Featuring MarketWatch reporter Steve Gelsi, Art Massalo, VP Business Development Cycling Frog, and Cynthia Salarizadeh, co-founder of the cannabis infused beverage Herbacee, whose parent company recently merged with Death Row Records and Snoop Dogg to create Iconic Tonics.
  • Compliance & Best Practices: Breaking through to profit in uncertain times.
    Featuring Jason Bartow, Executive Vice President, Bartow Insurance; Kelley Crosson, Horticulturist, Designer, Consultant; Holden Farahani, Co-Founder, CEO, Camaraderie Group; Ed Keating, Co-Founder, Cannabiz Media; and Nichelle Santos, Founder and CEO, CannaCoverage.

 

Additional panels throughout the two-day schedule will cover topics ranging from Hospitality & Cannabis Tourism; Real Estate & Cannabis Business Planning; Health & Wellness, among other subjects impacting businesses and consumers alike.

 

Three pre-event workshops will take place on June 3rd. These deep dive programs will cover important topics to scale your business: AI & Everything Cannabis for Your Business; Taking Your Cannabis Brand or Business Around the World –An International View of Building Your Opportunities; and Marketing & Communications for Brands & Retailers.

There will also be a range of networking opportunities, including but not limited to:

  • B2B Rooftop Bash with The NORML FORML (Tuesday, June 3) – Enjoy an open bar, food, and panoramic views of the city skyline. NORML is a nonprofit public-interest advocacy group that has since 1970 provided a voice in the public policy debate for those Americans who oppose marijuana prohibition and favor an end to the practice of arresting marijuana consumers.
  • Women’s Entrepreneur Luncheon (Thursday, June 5) – Connect with women leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates shaping the future of the cannabis industry.
  • Cannabis Workforce Job Fair, Hosted by the Cannabis Workforce Initiative, whose mission is to promote and support social equity in the adult-use cannabis market by providing quality workforce development and legal education.
  • O2VAPE Industry Yacht Party (Wednesday, June 4) – A Hudson River cruise, dinner and DJ dance party sponsored by O2VAPE®, a USA Veteran-owned company and has been providing consumers with high-quality portable vaping products since 2014.

    “New York’s rapidly growing cannabis market, combined with its unmatched consumer base and global reach, creates a unique opportunity for businesses to thrive—and makes it the perfect backdrop for our event,” said CMB CEO and Founder Christine Ianuzzi. “Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to be in the right room, surrounded by innovators, investors, and decision-makers— this is where the future of cannabis commerce is taking shape.”

     

    Cannabis Means Business (CMB) is a new vision for the show previously run as CWCBExpo. This evolution marks a significant shift in the landscape of cannabis industry events and reflects the needs of today and the future of the industry. CMB will continue to offer an expansive exhibit floor and a diverse slate of industry-leading speakers, presenting insightful addresses, educational sessions and workshops designed to address the complexities of operating within the regional, national, and global cannabis marketplace.

     

    For the latest scheduling updates, speaker information and to learn about attending, exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities at CMB–New York Global Edition, visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com.

Register Now to take advantage of pre-show pricing at the premier industry event  https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/2025-registration/.  For more information on exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities visit; https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/exhibiting-sponsoring/

 

About Cannabis Means Business (CMB)

 

Cannabis Means Business (CMB), formerly CWCBExpo, is the premier North American trade show and conference for professionals and companies who are serious about growth, innovation and building their business in cannabis.  As champions of a responsible, ethical, sustainable and profitable cannabis ecosystem, CMB reflects the vibrancy and complexity of New York City—a global hub for business, innovation and the cannabis supply chain. Visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com

CMB Press Release

Cannabis Means Business Opens Registration

Cannabis Means Business (CMB), New York Global Edition, Opens Registration

 

Experience the Premier Trade Show & Conference, June 4-5, For Cannabis Industry Professionals

(New York, New York, January 2025))—Cannabis Means Business (CMB), the premier business to business conference and expo, announces that registration is now open for its highly anticipated 2025 event. Taking place June 4-5, 2025 at the Javits Convention Center In New York City, the epicenter of commerce and innovation, CMB will bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts from across the rapidly growing cannabis sector.

 

Now in its 11th year, CMB (formerly CWCBExpo) is renowned for providing an unparalleled platform for networking, education, and business development. With an expansive exhibit floor and a diverse slate of industry-leading speakers, CMB attendees can expect an array of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to address the complexities of operating within the regional, national, and global cannabis marketplace.

 

What to Expect at CMB 2025:

 

    • Expert-Led Panels & Sessions: providing insights from industry leaders covering critical topics like market trends, investment strategies, global opportunities, regulatory frameworks and innovative business models that are shaping the industry.
    • Product Showcases: featuring the latest products, services, and technologies driving the cannabis industry forward.
    • Workshops and Trainings: practical sessions designed to provide actionable knowledge and skills for business success in the cannabis sector.
    • Networking Opportunities: including exhibit floor activations, mixers, and after hours events.

 

Featured keynote speakers and panelists will include top industry figures, government representatives, and thought leaders who will discuss the most pressing issues shaping the future of cannabis business.

 

“As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, CMB remains at the forefront of shaping its business landscape,” said Christine Ianuzzi, CEO of CMB. “Our mission is to provide a vibrant space for industry professionals to connect, learn, and discover the tools they need to succeed in this dynamic market. This year’s event promises to deliver even more value with a carefully curated lineup of speakers, exhibitors, and innovative content.”

 

Who Should Attend:

 

    • Cannabis Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
    • Dispensary and Retail Operators
    • Investors and Venture Capitalists
    • Manufacturers, Cultivators, and Suppliers
    • Legal, Compliance, and Regulatory Professionals
    • Industry Influencers and Advocates

 

Register Now to take advantage of early bird rates at this premier industry event here:  https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/2025-registration/.  There is still time to submit a speaker application and be a part of the prestigious CMB conference program:  https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/speaker-application/. For more information on exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities visit; https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/exhibiting-sponsoring/

 

About Cannabis Means Business (CMB)

 

Cannabis Means Business (CMB), formerly CWCBExpo, is the premier North American trade show and conference for professionals and companies who are serious about growth, innovation and building their business in cannabis.  As champions of a responsible, ethical, sustainable and profitable cannabis ecosystem, CMB reflects the vibrancy and complexity of New York City—a global hub for business, innovation and the cannabis supply chain. Visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com

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