The Team
Meet the Hosts
Ben ALL CAPS
Co-Host & NYGC Co-Founder
Co-founder of the New York Growers Cup, Ben brings deep expertise in cannabis cultivation and quality assessment. His passion for elevating craft cannabis in New York drives the conversation forward.
@ben_allcaps
The Kolektor
Co-Host & TKS Sensei Co-Founder
Matt Kachmar, known as The Kolektor, is a Marine Corps veteran turned cannabis entrepreneur. Co-founder of TKS Sensei and operator of a licensed dispensary in Peekskill.
@thekolektor
Dr. Dankenstein
Co-Host & Cultivation Expert
A technical cultivation specialist and NYGC co-founder, Dr. Dankenstein dives deep into the science of growing. His analytical approach helps demystify advanced techniques.
@dr.dankensteins
Sensei Cultivation
Co-Host & Legacy Grower
A legacy cultivator with roots in the Hudson Valley, Sensei brings generations of growing knowledge. Co-founder of TKS Sensei, bridging traditional wisdom with modern practices.
@sensei_cultAbout
The Show
I SMOKE NY is the official podcast of The New York Growers Cup, bringing you unfiltered conversations about cannabis culture, cultivation, and community in the Empire State.
Each episode features the four co-founders diving deep into topics ranging from growing techniques and strain reviews to industry news and advocacy efforts. Whether you're a seasoned cultivator or just curious about New York's evolving cannabis landscape, there's something here for you.
Connect