Leif Olsen

With over 14 years of owner-operator-advisor experience working with plant-touching and ancillary businesses, Leif Olsen has become a seasoned and globally sought-after cannabis application & licensing specialist, operations expert, and a seasoned entrepreneur, focusing on retail, distribution, F&B, services, manufacturing, and real estate sectors.

Leif began his career in the cannabis industry in 2008. He co-founded, operated, and successfully exited Kind Love, one of Colorado’s first and most successful medical and adult-use cannabis companies. Since owning and operating the vertically integrated operation, Leif has logged over 20,000 hours of hands-on operational experience and advised on more than 5 million sq. ft. of cultivation, manufacturing, and retail operations.

In 2015, identifying an emerging demand for operational experience, innovative solutions, and genetic advancements, Leif co-founded Catalyst BC, a cannabis advisement firm that guides partners through the gauntlet of conceptualizing, funding, designing, building, and operating a profitable cannabis or hemp business. During the first year of operations, Leif helped a client obtain one of Maryland’s first fifteen cultivation and dispensary licenses. Since then, the team has helped secure more than 46 licenses for cultivation, manufacturing, and retail dispensaries in 8 states, including some of the most competitive and rigorous application processes to date.

Together with Catalyst BC, Leif and partners have developed multiple ancillary companies, such as Allele/303 Seeds, a genetics service and solutions company with an extensive portfolio of proven and proprietary cultivars, and Greenhaus Industries, the first commercial vertical cannabis cultivation company. Greenhaus Industries was acquired by Pipp Horticulture in 2018, creating the industry-leading vertical farming solution with over 2,500 grow rooms worldwide. In addition to his ancillary endeavors, Leif was Supply Chain Manager for FLRish Inc. and Harborside Health, one of the most prominent medical and adult-use cannabis dispensaries in the United States.

As Business Development for Pipp Horticulture and Chief Executive Officer of Catalyst BC, Leif combines industry experience, Lean methodologies, and heart-based leadership to serve prospective operators, startups, and publicly traded LPs and MSOs in existing and emerging markets through a unique Kaizen-like approach that drives continuous consumer-focused improvement while maintaining regulatory compliance. Leif’s passion for cannabis-based treatments and products that improve others’ lives provides the fuel to continue to lead individuals, teams, and companies through the ever-evolving gauntlet of the cannabis industry.

A cannabis worker carefully harvesting mature cannabis plants in a well-lit indoor cultivation facility.
Cannabis Cultivation, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Genetics Consulting, Vertical Farming

10 Common Mistakes Among Commercial Cannabis Growers (And How to Avoid Them)

Whether you’re an experienced cannabis cultivator or just starting, mistakes are inevitable when growing cannabis at a commercial scale. Cannabis cultivation is a dynamic and demanding industry that requires meticulous planning, precision, and expertise. Even minor errors can have significant consequences, from reduced yields to costly financial losses.

A clean, brightly lit indoor greenhouse showcasing rows of vibrant, healthy cannabis plants under modern grow lights, emphasizing precision and care in cultivation.
Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Cultivation, Cannabis Facility Design

Designing the Ultimate Cannabis Cultivation Facility

The cannabis industry is evolving rapidly, with increasing demand for efficiency, compliance, and sustainability in cultivation practices. At the heart of every successful cultivation operation is a thoughtfully designed facility. A cannabis cultivation facility design isn’t just about creating a space for plants to grow—it’s about fostering an environment where plants thrive, yields maximize, and operational efficiency is seamless.

10 Recommendations To Increase Output
Cannabis Consulting

10 Recommendations To Increase Output

In the past couple of years, the cannabis industry has witnessed an exceptional surge. The legalization of cannabis in several countries along with the increasing acceptance of its use for medicinal and recreational purposes has created a multi-million dollar industry.

A cannabis consultant standing at the head of a conference table, presenting to two clients who are seated with open laptops, taking notes.
Cannabis Consulting

10 Ways Cannabis Consultants Offer Value

With the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis in many parts of the world, cannabis has become a hot topic in the past few years. As the industry continues to grow, so does the need for experts who can help businesses navigate the complex world of cannabis regulations, cultivation, and distribution.

Closeup of a man's hands typing on a laptop displaying charts and diagrams, symbolizing strategic cannabis business turnaround planning.
Uncategorized

Reignite Your Cannabis Venture: Tailored Turnaround Solutions

The cannabis industry is teeming with opportunities, yet it comes with unique challenges that can test even the most experienced entrepreneurs. From regulatory red tape to market oversaturation and financial hurdles, the path to success is rarely straightforward. However, with the right strategies and expert guidance, your cannabis venture can overcome obstacles and thrive.

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