Herbal Profiles #71

Author

Lars Miller
January 10, 2025

In partnership with

Welcome Note

Welcome back Gardeners! I want to start this today by saying my heart goes to everyone out in California this week. I am so sorry for the loss and I hope you are safe! If any of my readers are in a position to help you can do so here. 

I was having a conversation with some folks this week about what surprised them most the first time they tried a THC beverage, and almost everyone said “how fast it hit me” or “that it actually worked” I think a lot of times we forget how novel these products are and the science behind it all. Obviously we know it works but most people are not living it day in and day out so when they see these beverages, then try these beverages for the first time and they don’t really taste like weed, they can sneak up on you! Good feedback from some folks.

Trying to grow my other networks to 11k+ like I did on Linkedin so please follow me on Bluesky, X, Facebook, Instagram, and of course Youtube, I would love to chat with you there. You also can always reach me by just hitting reply here.

In case you missed it, David Gonzalez and I launched a podcast last year & the sixth episode and final show of Season 1 was released with Chris Fontes.

So be sure to subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get listen to podcasts. Also, be sure to rate us and maybe give the Youtube Channel a follow to if that’s your jam!

Just a heads up, The Free Spirits Podcast is on break until February and then we will be regrouping for season 2.

Lastly, if you love Coffee, I just launched a new newsletter that will be laid out similarly to this newsletter just focused on Coffee, and more specifically the speciality coffee industry.

High Spirits Beverages, The Original Hemp-Derived THC Drink by Free Spirits with David Gonzalez & Lars Miller

spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/CzoUWOLHsPb

Any comments or questions? Leave comment on this post or shoot me an email. Would love to hear from you!

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Choosing the Right 3PL for THC Beverages: A Navigational Guide

The THC beverage industry has unique challenges, and finding the right 3PL (third-party logistics provider) is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A good partner does more than just ship your product—they help you navigate regulations, protect product quality, and deliver on customer expectations. Here’s what to consider when making your choice.

Start with the basics. Think about what your brand needs from a logistics partner. Do your products need to stay cold to preserve their quality? Are you shipping to states with strict and differing cannabis laws? THC beverages often require temperature-controlled facilities and compliance expertise that not every 3PL can offer. Be clear about these needs upfront.

Compliance isn’t optional. THC beverages are heavily regulated, and mistakes can be costly. Look for a 3PL that has experience in industries with similar legal demands, like pharmaceuticals or alcohol. Do they have reliable systems for verifying customer ages? Can they handle state-by-state compliance requirements? Ask for specific examples of how they’ve dealt with these challenges before.

Technology is another piece of the puzzle. The best 3PLs use systems that make it easy for you to track your inventory, monitor shipments, and analyze performance. Real-time tracking isn’t just a nice-to-have—it can save you from customer complaints and lost revenue. Make sure their tech integrates seamlessly with your e-commerce platform, so you’re not juggling multiple systems.

Visiting the warehouse is one of the best ways to gauge whether a 3PL is the right fit. You’ll learn a lot by walking the floor and meeting the people who will handle your products. Are the processes organized? Is the team knowledgeable and engaged? These details matter when it comes to maintaining your product’s integrity and getting it to customers on time.

Think about what happens as your business grows. A good 3PL should be able to scale with you. If you’re shipping 5,000 cases a month now, can they handle 10,000 or 20,000 when you expand? Flexibility is key. You might not need all their services now, but having access to things like expanded freight options or returns management down the line can be a game-changer.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of a 3PL that acts as a true partner. The best ones don’t just fulfill orders—they provide insights on inventory planning, shipping strategies, and even cost-saving opportunities. Some offer consultative services that go beyond logistics, helping you optimize your entire supply chain.

Choosing the right 3PL isn’t just about speed or cost—it’s about finding a partner who understands the complexities of your industry and supports your goals. Take the time to do your research, visit facilities, and ask tough questions.

Founder Spotlight - Scotty Hunter

From launching the world's largest fruit brewery to pioneering THC beverages, Scotty Hunter shares his journey of building innovative beverage brands.

Enjoy 20% off when you use Code HERBALx20

Creator Spotlight - Stephen Eigenmann

How Stephen Eigenmann's CannaConnect is creating meaningful connections and shaping the future of Minnesota's cannabis scene.

Let Me Help Tell Your Story

My Services

  • Photography - This is one of my passions. If you are doing a campaign launch, brand activation, behind the scenes content, etc. I love telling your story through photography. You can see my portfolio and more at www.LarsMillerMedia.com. I specialize in event photography and lifestyle/product photography. I also do behind the scenes, portrait, and more. Shoot me an email if you’re interested in working together.

  • Ghost-writing for Executives - I have a had a few clients now and they have seen great results. I worked with one client who saw over 500k impressions and sold 5-figures worth of consulting services in the 6 months we worked together. Another client received a couple job offers and interview requests from C-Suite folks, not recruiters.

    • How does it work?

      • Consultation - We will meet and discuss - what do you want to be known for, what is your goal with building a personal brand, and I will begin crafting your content pillars and setting up all your onboarding materials.

      • We will then begin to hone your brand voice/tone and map out the strategy.

      • Then we will begin putting together the content calendar for the next 30-60 days. This can/will be a multi-channel approach.

    • What type of content can I help with?

      • Social content - Linkedin, X, Bluesky, Threads, and more.

      • Newsletter & Blogs

  • Social Media Management/Community Management - need someone who is chronically online, knows the industry well, and loves yapping with strangers online? Let me manage your social media. Deploying content, strategizing with you or your internal team on how best to leverage your internal assets, and more.

Shoot me an email to [email protected] any time and we can discuss what business challenges you are facing and how I can help. This is complete free.

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