Jesse is a Pennsylvania native and Army combat veteran with deep roots in the cannabis industry. He played a pivotal role in launching new markets, leading and training the teams responsible for the first legal medical cannabis sales in both Pennsylvania and Ohio. While serving as a New Store Opening Director for a large multi-state operator, he met his wife, Carrie—and together, they set out to build something of their own.
As co-founder and COO of Black Bear Dispensary, Jesse now brings that large-scale operational experience into a more personal, hands-on approach as an owner-operator. With the launch of Black Bear’s first adult-use dispensary in Minnesota, he is focused on helping shape a new market—delivering a retail experience rooted in education, transparency, and high standards.
Jesse oversees all day-to-day operations, including regulatory compliance, business strategy, and operational execution. His passion lies in building strong teams, creating exceptional customer experiences, and contributing to the communities Black Bear serves.
He believes success comes down to doing meaningful work, enjoying the process, and staying grounded in purpose—something he sums up in four simple words: “have fun, sell weed.”
