March 13th 2024.
Sue Taylor, also known as "Mama Sue," is a well-known figure in the cannabis industry. She is the co-founder of Pharmacy Berkeley, a pioneering cannabis dispensary known for its commitment to providing top-tier cannabis education, premium products, and compassionate customer service. But before delving into the world of cannabis, Taylor had a long and successful career in education.
Taylor was born into a large family in Louisiana and eventually moved to California with her family when she was just 12 years old. She went on to become a principal at two schools in Oakland before retiring in 2004. However, her son's interest in cannabis and his attendance at Oaksterdam University in Oakland sparked her own curiosity about the plant.
In 2009, Taylor, along with her son and daughter-in-law, established iCann Health with a shared vision of creating a community-focused dispensary dedicated to educating seniors about cannabis and its potential health benefits. She recently spoke with BLACK ENTERPRISE about her journey in the industry, her advocacy for seniors, and her impact as an African-American woman.
When asked about her well-being, Taylor often responds with a resounding "excellent!" Her perspective on cannabis shifted when her son presented her with the opportunity to create a spiritual wellness center. Despite the societal stigma surrounding cannabis, Taylor saw the potential for holistic healing.
According to the ACLU, Black individuals are significantly more likely to be arrested for marijuana-related offenses, despite similar rates of usage compared to white individuals. Taylor's initial reluctance was replaced with excitement when her son suggested she could finally build the spiritual wellness center she had always wanted.
Now, Taylor is a leading voice in the Plants Over Pills movement and has partnered with Glass House Brands to educate individuals on the benefits of choosing cannabis over prescription pills. However, her journey in the cannabis industry has not been without its challenges.
As an African-American woman in a predominantly white and male-dominated industry, Taylor faced numerous obstacles, including securing a building, facing discrimination, and being refused rental space. Despite these challenges, she remained persistent and passionate about her mission.
The lack of diversity in the cannabis industry is a prevalent issue, with Black individuals only accounting for 1.2% to 1.7% of business owners, according to Leafly's Jobs Report 2021. But Taylor's focus remains on empowering seniors and promoting holistic wellness through initiatives like Plants Over Pills.
She believes that seniors are wisdom keepers and have a vital role to play in society. By providing them with education about cannabis, Taylor hopes to break down misconceptions and offer alternative solutions for their health and well-being.
At 76 years old, Taylor continues to trailblaze in the cannabis industry. She encourages others to make their mark and create something meaningful, reminding them that life is not forever. Through her work, she hopes to inspire her age group to embrace new ways of thinking and living.
Recently, Pharmacy Berkeley celebrated its fourth anniversary, and Taylor expanded her endeavors beyond the dispensary with her line of senior-focused products under the name "Mama Sue." It took 12 years and the involvement of three external investors, but Taylor's perseverance paid off.
In a world where cannabis is often stigmatized, Taylor is determined to change the narrative and empower others to take control of their health and well-being. She wants her age group to know that there is another way, and she encourages them to follow their passions and create something meaningful in their lives.
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