Discover the inspiring journey of Craig Henderson, CEO of Extract Labs, from Army veteran to CBD industry leader.
The title CEO conjures figures of corporate America: neckties, skyscrapers with corner offices, and vast distances between management and employees. While this is probably a fairly accurate description for many corporations, Extract Labs still has its start-up roots front and center.
Drop into their Boulder headquarters, and you are likely to find CEO Craig Henderson sweeping the floor, helping our shipping team fulfill orders, or raiding the Community Manager’s snack drawer. While many things at Extract Labs could be considered unconventional, this is especially true when it comes to Craig.
Craig spent most of his childhood on a Marine Corps base in 29 Palms, California. Immediately after finishing high school in Southern Indiana, Henderson entered military service, serving as an infantryman and Team Leader with 1 Battalion 27th Infantry during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2002 to 2006. Throughout his military career, he was twice nominated for a Bronze Star and received an ARCOM with Valor award while serving in Iraq.
After retiring from the Army, Craig went back to school and earned a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Louisville, with a concentration in thermal sciences and renewable energy.
From there, Craig went on to become Senior Sales Engineer for Apeks Supercritical – an Ohio-based CO2 extraction technology leader. There, he performed technical sales and managed all training and service on Apeks’ extraction systems – both domestically and internationally. He also conducted cannabis-related research and development and taught classes specifically on advanced CO2 extraction and processing techniques.
In 2016 hemp production began ramping up in Colorado. Sensing there was a vacuum to fill, Craig decided to do what he could to help meet the demand. Like many a start-up, it all began in his garage as a side hustle and a distant dream: maybe CBD would someday turn into a niche industry.
Craig bought a small rotovap and some basic processing equipment, and thus Extract Labs was born. Now an industry leader in the production of CBD, CBG, and all things hemp, Craig hasn’t forgotten the days of shoveling snow into a bucket to keep the condenser coils of his rotovap cold.
While some CEOs barely manage a bird’s eye view of production, Craig still gets his hands dirty daily. Whether it’s frantically purging the break room fridge, refining distillation SOPs, or lending his wit to writing social media captions, Craig is just as involved in the business now as he was in his garage on day one. A natural-born leader, Craig’s example inspires all of us to give 200% every day.
We got a chance to interview Craig. Read on below to learn more about him, Extract Labs, the DOJ reclassifying marijuana, and great information about CBD, CBG, Delta 8, and Delta 9.
Ganjly: Craig, as a veteran who has witnessed the benefits of cannabinoids firsthand, can you share how your personal experiences in the Army influenced your journey into the CBD industry?
Craig Henderson: My time in the Army was transformative in many ways. Serving in combat zones, I saw many of my fellow soldiers struggling with physical injuries and mental health issues like PTSD. After my service, I personally experienced the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, including dealing with chronic pain and anxiety. Traditional treatments often came with significant side effects, leading me to explore alternative options. This led me to CBD, where I found substantial relief without the adverse effects. Seeing the difference it had on my life, I was driven to help others in similar situations, which ultimately led to the founding of Extract Labs. My goal has always been to make these beneficial products accessible to those who need them most, especially fellow veterans.
Ganjly: Can you explain the key differences between CBD, Delta 8, and Delta 9 in terms of their benefits for pain and anxiety relief?
Craig Henderson: Certainly. CBD is well-known for its non-psychoactive properties and is widely used for its potential to reduce pain and anxiety without causing a high. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to promote balance and homeostasis. Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid that is similar to Delta 9 THC but is less potent. It provides a milder psychoactive effect and can help with pain and anxiety, often with fewer side effects such as paranoia. Delta 9 THC, the most well-known form of THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis and is effective for pain and anxiety relief but comes with a strong psychoactive experience. Each of these cannabinoids offers unique benefits, and the best choice depends on the individual’s specific needs and their response to each compound.
Ganjly: With the recent DEA/DOJ proposal to reclassify marijuana and its products, how do you see this impacting the future of cannabinoid research and product development?
Craig Henderson: The proposed reclassification of marijuana to Schedule III is a significant step forward. It would ease many of the restrictions that currently hamper research and development in the cannabinoid space. This change would likely increase funding opportunities, allow for more comprehensive studies, and foster innovation in product development. Additionally, it would make it easier for companies like ours to explore the full therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, leading to a broader range of safe and effective products for consumers. The reclassification would also help in normalizing the use of cannabinoid-based therapies and potentially increase acceptance among healthcare providers and the public.
Ganjly: Extract Labs offers a range of USDA-certified organic and vegan products. Can you discuss the importance of these certifications for consumers seeking cannabinoid products for health and wellness?
Craig Henderson: Certifications like USDA organic and vegan are crucial for consumers who prioritize health and wellness. These certifications ensure that our products meet stringent standards for quality and purity, providing assurance that they are free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and artificial additives. For many consumers, especially those with specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, knowing that a product is organic and vegan can make a significant difference in their purchasing decisions. It aligns with our commitment to transparency and excellence, ensuring that our customers receive the highest quality products that support their well-being.
Ganjly: What are some of the main challenges you’ve encountered in educating the public about the health benefits of cannabinoids?
Craig Henderson: One of the primary challenges is overcoming the stigma associated with cannabis. Despite growing acceptance, many people still associate cannabinoids solely with recreational use and psychoactive effects. Another challenge is the misinformation and lack of understanding about the differences between various cannabinoids and their effects. We invest heavily in education through our website, social media, and partnerships with healthcare professionals to provide accurate, science-based information. It’s also important to address the varying regulatory environments across states, which can create confusion for consumers. By consistently communicating the benefits and safety of our products, we aim to build trust and increase awareness.
Ganjly: How do you address concerns regarding the potential dominance of Big Pharma in the cannabis market following the rescheduling to Schedule III?
Craig Henderson: The potential for Big Pharma to dominate the cannabis market is a significant concern. Big Pharma has a history of driving up prices and adding unnecessary additives to their products, which goes against the principles of natural and holistic health that the cannabis community values. The entry of Big Pharma could lead to higher prices and a shift away from the natural benefits of cannabinoids. We strongly advocate for regulations that ensure fair competition and protect smaller, independent companies. This way, consumers can continue to have access to diverse, affordable, and clean options. We also emphasize the importance of staying true to our roots and continuing to innovate in ways that prioritize the well-being of our customers over profits.
Ganjly: Can you elaborate on the specific challenges that states with legal marijuana programs might continue to face despite the rescheduling to Schedule III?
Craig Henderson: Even with rescheduling, states with legal marijuana programs may still face significant challenges. These include navigating the patchwork of state regulations that can differ widely, leading to complexities in compliance and enforcement. Banking remains a critical issue, as many financial institutions are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to federal regulations. There are also ongoing challenges related to interstate commerce, taxation, and the establishment of standardized testing and quality control measures. While rescheduling is a step forward, comprehensive federal legislation and regulatory reforms are needed to address these issues fully and create a more cohesive framework for the industry.
Ganjly: What are some of the most compelling scientific findings that support the use of cannabinoids for mental and physical health?
Craig Henderson: There is a growing body of research supporting the use of cannabinoids for various health conditions. For example, studies have shown that CBD can be effective in reducing seizures in certain types of epilepsy, leading to the approval of the first CBD-based medication, Epidiolex. Cannabinoids have also been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful for managing chronic pain. Research indicates potential benefits for anxiety and PTSD, with cannabinoids helping to modulate stress responses and improve sleep. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids and highlight the need for further research to fully understand their capabilities and applications.
Ganjly: In your opinion, what further legislative and regulatory reforms are necessary to fully harmonize federal and state cannabis laws?
Craig Henderson: To fully harmonize federal and state cannabis laws, several key reforms are necessary. First, comprehensive federal legalization would provide a unified legal framework, reducing the disparities between state laws. Banking reforms are crucial to allow cannabis businesses to operate financially without restrictions. Clear guidelines for interstate commerce would facilitate the legal transport and sale of cannabis products across state lines. Additionally, establishing national standards for testing, labeling, and quality control would ensure consistency and safety for consumers.
Ganjly: What advice would you give to consumers, especially veterans, who are new to cannabinoids and looking to explore their benefits for health and wellness?
Craig Henderson: My advice to consumers and veterans new to cannabinoids is to start with thorough research and consult with healthcare professionals knowledgeable about cannabinoid therapies. Begin with lower doses and gradually increase as needed while monitoring your body’s response. Look for reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing to ensure product quality and transparency. It’s also important to understand that everyone’s body reacts differently, so patience and careful observation are key. For veterans, seeking support from fellow veterans who have experience with cannabinoids can provide valuable insights and encouragement.
Thank you so much, Craig, for taking the time to do the interview. To learn more about Craig and his company, go to ExtractLabs.com.
