We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashley Mccray. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashley below.
Hi Ashley, thanks for joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?
At Honeypot Treats, we believe that three key elements contribute to success: 1) a great team, 2) a unifying mission, and 3) an unwavering commitment to continuous learning. The team at Honey Pot Treats is small but powerful, with deep expertise in cannabis policy, global product launches, legal strategy, and business. Our diverse perspectives lay the foundation for a brand devoted to spreading sweetness in New York and around the world. This shared mission drives everything we do.
This common purpose is vital because it keeps us focused and motivated through high points and challenges alike. Challenges are seen as opportunities to learn, and we share a passion for learning. Success is forged from countless lessons learned through setbacks without ever accepting defeat. When plans go awry, we learn, adapt, and improve—emerging stronger each time. A life or business committed to learning is destined for success, equipped with the resilience to adapt and anticipate what comes next.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Honey Pot Elevated Treats was created as a solution to a problem we recognized. As cannabis enthusiasts who entered the industry driven by our passion for the plant and its benefits, we noticed that smoking flower or vaping often left a constant feeling of dry throat or cottonmouth. We wanted a high that made our bodies feel good, a product that tasted great, and one that contributed positively to the world. This led to the creation of Honey Pot Drops!
These honey-based hard treats are a smoker’s best friend—offering the perfect combination of sweetness, a pleasant high, and a soothing sensation that any busy adult can appreciate. Our flavors are inspired by the diverse taste preferences of our consumer community. Our core flavors include Pure Honey, Hot Honey, and Floral Honey (e.g., Elderflower Hibiscus Honey), with rotating seasonal flavors such as Tropical Honey, a delightful Mango Hibiscus.
We wanted a product that could be taken on the go; a treat that delivers the impact of flower, and tastes like an indulgent treat made just for you!
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Over the past two years of product development, we pivoted several times. We initially began with a delicious dosed lemonade. While the taste tests were a success, we soon realized that the dosed beverage market was highly competitive and beverage businesses are CAPEX intensive. Although we loved our product and knew we might eventually launch a beverage, we needed a more unique product to debut.
As our team evolved, we discovered that one of our co-founders was a beekeeper. Given our passion for the planet, the importance of pollinators, sustainability, and wellness, incorporating the natural sweetness of honey into our product was an obvious choice. After speaking with various consumers, a common theme emerged: while they enjoy smoking, they don’t love the harsh effect it had on their throats. So, we got to work in the kitchen to create a solution!
Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
Sasha and Ashley met while attending Harvard Business School (HBS). Fun fact: Sasha is one of the co-founders of the Business of Cannabis Club at HBS. Before business school, Ashley spent years in product development at General Mills, launching global products. Ian and Sasha connected through the cannabis community, where Sasha was impressed by Ian’s impactful work in sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). When the idea for a cannabis company emerged, the three came together for a sweet beginning.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.honeypottreats.com/home
- Instagram: HoneyPotTreats
