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.

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🔗 Connect with Gus Sevastos

Dutchie: https://business.dutchie.com

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

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📬 Join The Cannaverse

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

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🎙 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

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🌱 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.