Meet CONSTANCE STONE

We had the good fortune of connecting with CONSTANCE STONE and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi CONSTANCE, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing many outsiders are unaware of about the cannabis industry is just how heavily regulated and compliance-driven it is. It’s not the “Wild West” that people might assume. Operators must navigate complex layers of local, state, and federal compliance, often simultaneously. From seed-to-sale tracking, data security, and system access reviews to mandatory audits and product labeling laws everything is scrutinized.

Also, beyond the business operations, there’s a deep social impact layer to this work. For me personally, being part of this industry means helping rewrite a narrative turning something that once devastated communities, including my own, into an opportunity for empowerment, ownership, and second chances. Most people don’t see that side of the industry they just see the product, not the purpose or the policy behind it.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My work sits at the intersection of technology, compliance, empowerment, and second chances. I currently serve as an IT Compliance Leader in the legal cannabis industry, a space that’s not only complex and heavily regulated, but one that has deep historical roots in systemic injustice. What sets my work apart is that I bring humanity into a space that can often be dominated and competitive. I ensure that compliance isn’t just about checkboxes, it’s about building ethical, secure, and inclusive systems that work for people.

I also own a real estate & cleaning business, CWC Company, where I intentionally hire individuals with prior convictions, veterans and immigrants. People who often get overlooked but deserve another shot. My brand stands for transformation, dignity, and doing business with care.

Getting here was far from easy. I was a teen mom. I’m a domestic violence survivor. I’ve been broke, overlooked, and underestimated. But I never let that define me. I leaned into education, got certified in project management, earned my business degree, and kept showing up flawed but focused. I took every setback as a setup for the next level.

One of my proudest moments was being recognized for my leadership and volunteer work. I also mentor youth, speak publicly about resilience, and use every part of my story, especially the hard parts, to inspire others.

What I want the world to know is this: I am not a product of my pain. I am proof that purpose can be born from it. My brand and my work are about power, not the kind that dominates, but the kind that restores, uplifts, and transforms.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for the week, I’d roll out the red carpet Southern-style—with my city wit. I am from Massachusetts, but I love the south. I love a good mix of good food, good vibes, and soul-nourishing experiences.

Day 1: Welcome & Wind Down
We’d kick things off in Alpharetta with a cozy dinner at South City Kitchen, modern Southern food done right. After that, we’d relax on my patio or at The Velvet note, a lounge with live jazz to ease into the week.

Day 2: A Day in the City – ATL Vibes
We’d head to Ponce City Market for shopping, rooftop games, and skyline views. Then grab tacos and margaritas at Bar Taco. Love the Oster Tacos! In the evening, we’d hit Apache XLR for spoken word or live music, because I love to sing. it’s a vibe you won’t forget.

Day 3: Black Excellence + Culture Day
We’d explore the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and then visit The Trap Music Museum because yes, both can exist in the same day. Dinner would be at Twisted Soul Cookhouse, an award-winning Black-owned restaurant with soul food and sophistication.

Day 4: Spa + Self-Care
A full-day recharge: massages and facials at my daughter’s spa in Sandy Springs ‘By Karli Beauty’ (because keeping it in the family is top-tier). Then lunch at True Food Kitchen and maybe a drive through Buckhead for a little real estate dreaming.

Day 5: Art + Creativity
We’d hit the High Museum of Art, then do a sip and paint at home where we could create, talk, and laugh. I’d probably cook, something soulful like Cajun salmon, roasted veggies, and peach cobbler for dessert. I love to cook!

Day 6: Nature + Nostalgia
We’d spend the day at Piedmont Park or even take a ride to Stone Mountain for some fresh air and perspective. That night, dinner at The Garden Room a floral, whimsical experience that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. And the drinks!

Day 7: Sunday Soul + Celebration
We’d dress up and attend my congregation for service. Then Sunday brunch at The Breakfast Boys or Atlanta Breakfast Club, followed by a final toast somewhere rooftop like 9 Mile Station or The Thompson Hotel. Before they head out, I’d give them a personalized gift, maybe one of my paintings or journal, to remember the trip.

Because for me, it’s not just about where we go, it’s how we feel while we’re there. And I want my best friend to feel seen, celebrated, and completely filled up.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people and moments that shaped my journey, but if I had to dedicate this shoutout, it would go to Vivian Gore of SisterCare, she was part of the organization that helped me reclaim my power at a time when I was just trying to survive. I walked through their doors seeking answers, but I left with vision, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. The women there didn’t just provide resources they saw me, uplifted me, and reminded me I was never alone.

I also have to shout out my children. They were my “why.” Watching them grow, thrive, and succeed has been one of my greatest accomplishments. And to every mentor, friend, and even the challenges, thank you. And lastly, I want to thank me for not giving up on myself when times become demanding. The lessons, the love, the disappointments, and the divine timing all played a role in the woman I’ve become. I stand here today as a businesswoman, IT leader, artist, and advocate because someone believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.

Website: https://cwccompany.com

Instagram: Constancestone_

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/constance-o-stone

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/constanceoct

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@conoct

Image Credits
Raphael Simien Photography
DeAndre Gresham – SlingShots Photography