Olivia Mannix – Advocate highlight

Olivia Mannix: Founder & CEO, Cannabrand

When and how did you become an advocate for cannabis?

I have been an advocate for cannabis for a long time. Operating a business in the space for about four years now has opened doors for me to stand side-by-side with individuals who have been in the trenches for decades and led the battle for the overall legalization of cannabis. I aspire to be a part of social and legislative acceptance of cannabis on a medicinal and educational level.

How has cannabis benefited your life?

Cannabis has enhanced my life in every aspect. I have benefited from cannabis with aches and pains, anxiety, as well as a skin care regimen. I’ve had two knee surgeries and the first time, I got very sick from prescription painkillers. So for the second surgery I used cannabis, topicals and edibles, and the recovery was much less painful and faster.

What’s your greatest achievement for the cannabis cause?

My greatest achievement has been creating Cannabrand, a cannabis marketing agency. The basis of the agency has been to help cannabis-related companies with their marketing needs, ranging from branding to public relations to social media. The agency has helped with the elevation of the industry as a whole, because our mission has been to “rebrand” cannabis and change the way the industry and cannabis enthusiasts are perceived. It is incredible to see how far we have come as an agency and to look at the sheer number of brands that have come out of the shadows to play an integral role in cannabis industry.

How did that manifest?

As a marketer, I saw the need for professional-caliber branding and marketing in the cannabis space and decided to dedicate my life to evolving the industry for the betterment of all.

Who do you look up to or admire?

To name one person is very difficult! I look up to and admire many other advocates and activists in the cannabis industry who have tirelessly battled for the legalization of cannabis through sacrifice and education.

If you could change one thing about the way cannabis is viewed and/or treated right now, what would it be?

My mission has always been to “rebrand cannabis.” I tirelessly educate, motivate and inspire others to change the negative images of cannabis that many still hold as “fact,” by speaking with media and the public about cannabis use and all of the benefits of this versatile plant.