On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, we’re joined by Adam Bierman, entrepreneur, cannabis industry pioneer, and author of the bold new book Weed Empire. Adam is the Co-Founder and former CEO of MedMen, the first major American cannabis brand to go mainstream. Under his leadership, MedMen scaled to 33 stores across five states, employed over 1,500 people, and achieved a nearly $2 billion valuation—all while navigating one of the most complex and highly regulated industries in the world.
In our conversation, Adam shares what it was like to lead a business that was both pioneering and polarizing. We get into the rollercoaster ride of building MedMen, the lessons he learned as the face of the cannabis revolution, and what founders need to know about scaling in gray space industries. He talks about the moments of breakthrough and breakdown, how he navigated public scrutiny, and why he felt now was the right time to write Weed Empire—a raw, unfiltered story of what it really took to build at the edge of culture and regulation.
Adam also shares his thoughts on what the cannabis industry got right (and wrong), what needs to change for the sector to truly thrive, and what’s next in his journey as a futurist and advisor. Whether you’re building a disruptive brand, recovering from a high-profile pivot, or just want the truth behind one of the most talked-about startups in recent years—this episode is a must-listen. Now on The Kara Goldin Show.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Adam Bierman and Weed Empire:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-bierman
https://www.amazon.com/Weed-Empire-High-Stakes-Cannabis/dp/1637745133
https://www.instagram.com/adambierman
https://www.theadambierman.com/

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Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/685