Episode 179 - Giancarlo Pinto, NYCBud

Episode 179 is the 42nd episode of Season 3.

We’re joined today by Giancarlo Pinto, co-founder of NYC Bud, a family of dispensaries redefining cannabis retail through design, culture, and a distinctly New York sensibility. From their first Long Island City location styled like a subway station, to their new Midtown shop modeled after Grand Central Station itself, NYC Bud blends cannabis with the architecture and energy of the city that raised it.

Giancarlo and his business partner Jonpaul Pezzo built their vision out of Queens roots and New York nightlife, creating stores that feel more like art installations than dispensaries. Interactive touches—like departure boards for order status and “ticket window” budtenders—turn shopping into an experience that’s playful, immersive, and uniquely New York.

In this episode, we talk about what it means to build dispensaries that reflect the culture of a city, how design can change the way people experience cannabis, and what’s next for NYC Bud as they continue to grow. For Giancarlo, cannabis retail isn’t just business—it’s about honoring the backdrop of New York while keeping cannabis accessible, communal, and a little less serious.

Follow Giancarlo on LinkedIn and learn more at nycbud.com.

Enjoy the show!