Highlife Health LLC owner & CEO Jennifer Gierum
By Dan Murphy
Over the past few months, several licensed Cannabis dispensaries have opened in Westchester County. One county dispensary that is hoping to open its doors on Aug. 3 is High Life Health, LLC, owned by Jennifer Gierum.
Highlife Health LLC will be one of the few female owned Cannabis dispensaries in New York State, and the only women owned in Westchester.
High Life Health will offer both medical and adult-use cannabis products to customers, including a wide array of whole flower products, vaporizers, concentrates, edibles, pre-rolled, beverages, topical, accessories and specialized items for pets.
Their location, at 19 Huguenot Street, New Rochelle, NY 10801, will include curbside services, enabling customers to have a more convenient experience.
“It is a privilege to establish Highlife Health LLC in my hometown and also setting a precedent for our community that women can thrive and carve their own path in any industry,” said Jennifer Gierum, President/CEO of Highlife Health LLC. “Embracing this challenge entails more than just introducing safe products to the marketplace; it involves leading the charge in alternative medicine, catalyzing a transformative era of wellness and empowerment.”
Gierun explained that the planned opening is for Aug 3. “However that depends on final licensure with the state. They have to inspect us first. We are awaiting our CO, so we can call the state in to inspect. Then they will issue our final certificate to operate. We hope to be one of the first 150 licensed dispensaries to open in the entire state”
The dispensary will include a number of sales terminals to ensure efficient service and minimal wait times for patients, and spacious parking.
Jennifer Gierum brings an interesting life story and professional background to her new role. She combines a diverse background in acting, modeling, and entrepreneurship with a keen sense of business acumen. While raising her two young sons, she managed employment/contracts with major corporations like PepsiCo, Ethan Allen, and News Corp in financial roles. After her children embarked to college, Jennifer returned to her acting roots, achieving success with appearances in numerous television and film productions.
Now, Jennifer is leveraging her passion for holistic living and alternative medicine to pioneer a new venture. She has secured a coveted adult-use cannabis license in the state of New York, aiming to introduce these healing alternatives to her community at large.
Recently the state task force closed down 6 illegal dispensaries in New Rochelle. “This opportunity is in uncharted territory and has come with a ton of struggles in order to get to this point,” said Gierum.
What is the mission of High Life Health LLC?
“To start to normalize talking about the effects that cannabis can have on every individuals well being. To educate our customers as to the actual benefits of cannabinoids, and to direct them appropriately to products that will truly make a difference. I truly have a personal mission to let others know that when used appropriately, this can be safer alternative to medicating young adults with prescription medicine that they eventually stop taking because the side effects are too harsh, leaving them untreated, or allowing them continuous use of alcohol because you do not know what to do. I feel that this is my mission because if I was afforded this opportunity when my own children were in school,I would have not been able to own this type of business. The stigma attached in high school would have been too much for my own children to take. My own mother called me a “dope dealer”, when I told her that I received a license. Now, she is starting to educate herself, and allowing conversation.
Why did you decide to get into the Cannabis business?
“My friend came to me for my opinion on the Social and Economic Equality Application. In reviewing the application, I realized that I could qualify as a SEE applicant, as a solely woman owned and financed entity. The opportunity was extremely enticing, because I had just started looking into and accepting cannabis as a holistic medicine in my own son’s anxiety treatment. I was able to see with my own eyes what the proper uses of cannabis can aid. I am now passionate about educating others about this holistic approach to living.”
What role can cannabis, THC, and CBD have on improving a customer’s health?
“THC is primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, which can include relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief. It may also stimulate appetite and reduce nausea.
CBD is non-psychoactive and has been associated with various potential therapeutic effects. It may have anti-inflammatory properties, help alleviate pain, reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, and even have antipsychotic effects.
CBN (cannabinol) is often cited for its potential sedative effects. Some research suggests that CBN may have mild sedative properties and could potentially help in promoting sleep. It may be particularly effective when combined with other cannabinoids like THC or CBD.
What are the impacts of illegal cannabis stores?
Products sold in illegal cannabis stores are not subject to regulatory oversight or quality control measures enforced by legal frameworks. This lack of regulation can lead to products being contaminated with pesticides, molds, or other harmful substances. Ingesting such products can pose serious health risks to consumers. Illegal dispensaries may operate in ways that compromise public safety. This can include issues such as selling cannabis to minors, operating in unsafe locations, or attracting criminal activity due to cash transactions and the presence of valuable inventory. The presence of illegal cannabis stores can impact the character and safety of neighborhoods. Concerns may arise regarding increased traffic, loitering, and a perceived decrease in property values
Are you concerned about an overflow of legal Cannabis stores? Are you worried about competition?
I am not concerned that there will be an overflow of legal stores. The Office of Cannabis Management has clear outlines as to limits based on population data. I have to trust that they will continue to act in everyone’s best interest and keep current proximity protections in place.
What makes your dispensary appealing to customers?
We are woman owned and family run. Our focus is on educating our customers about the products that will help them best and help them to navigate this ever changing field of alternative medicine. Our staff is knowledgeable and our space inviting.
What would you tell someone who has never tried, cannabis, THC, or CBD?
It is important for the first time cannabis user to take it slow. Many go overboard the first time, and never want to touch it again. It is important to communicate to your bud tender exactly the effect that you are looking for. This way they can select the appropriate product and instruct you as to the way to start off taking the product.
What products are among your most popular?
We are not open yet, however I have met with tons of cultivators and brand owners. They are seeing a rise in disposable vape cartridges, edibles. They attribute the rise in edibles due to a new “fast acting” component, and disposable cartridges for the convenience.
What products are popular among older customers? Or Younger Customers?
From what I have heard everyone either wants energy or sleep. It doesn’t matter the age. However, I intend to educate our customers as to what they really should be using to address their specific concern.
What are the financial challenges that come with opening a cannabis business in NY?
We have had so many challenges, however financially it has not been as bad as one would think. I was able to receive a reduced rate for all licensing fees due to the fact that I am a woman entity. The toughest challenge was having to lease a space prior to submitting the initial application. The state review process at the time was flawed, and horribly slow. I had to secure the space from October of 2023, when my application was submitted. If we pass our final inspection as planned, we will open in August. That means that I have had to pay a lease on our space for a total of 10 months, without being able to open. Some who aren’t licensed yet are still paying their leases, however the state has proximity protected them. The build-out has been way more expensive than planned. I have had to invest a ton of money into high-tech security systems, and safety to assure that my family, employees and I are safe. We have also endured extensive costs associated with building our website, and online ordering features.
After their opening, High Life Health hours will be open Monday to Saturday from 10am – 9pm and Sunday 10:00 am—5:00pm. Phone: (914) 500 – 0010.
For more information about High Life Health LLC visit https://highlifehealth.cannalogic.co/
