Celebrating the “Moms of Vireo”
Vireo is proud to be a cannabis company that lifts female voices and perspectives, and we feel lucky to have so many amazing women leaders at our company. Many of these women are also working Moms, making their accomplishments and hard work even more admirable.
The last year has been a unique challenge for mothers – many have had to add the role of teacher to a growing list of familial responsibilities, while others have been away from family, unable to see children or grandchildren due to COVID-related precautions. But as mothers always do, they have found a way to rise above and lead their families through even the toughest times.
In honor of Mother’s Day 2021, we are highlighting just a few of the incredible “Moms of Vireo!” See below for their interviews.
We also recognize that the holidays can be more difficult for some people, especially those who have lost loved ones or face unseen challenges. Whether you have experienced loss or ache to become a mother yourself, please know we see you and support you.
Theresa Svoboda, Sales & Marketing Manager – Maryland
Tell us about your kids?
I am the proud Mom to daughter Sydney, 19 and son Cam, 17.
What’s your favorite part of being a Mom?
My children bring so much dimension to my life. The rewards have always been in the abundance of loving and joyful Moments I share with the kids. I also enjoy sharing their successes with my parents, hoping it makes up for the times I gave them trouble when I was younger!
What are some of the challenges of being a Mom in general?
My kids didn’t have a nuclear family, so I wore all the hats. Although the challenges of being a single Mom are plentiful, the most challenging Moments in this role have provided me with the perspective and resilience I carry throughout my days. I wouldn’t change a thing!
Challenges of being a working Mom in particular?
I have never met a working Mom that thinks it’s a breeze. Working mothers learn to prioritize, schedule, and be efficient, but it is still difficult work. Working for a family-oriented organization like Vireo health has given my “Mom-life” great flow. That’s why I am #vireoproud — it’s so much more than a hashtag phrase — it’s family.
Have you talked to your kids about what you do for work – i.e., working at a cannabis company?
My kids are happy their Mom has a job in cannabis – it’s no secret that I love representing for Vireo! My children have witnessed my journey to wellness firsthand, and it’s been a true testament to the plant’s healing value. The day I had my consultation to get a medical cannabis certification, I talked to them. I explained how our society has been overwrought with misinformation about the medical benefits of cannabis. There is so much value in leading with truth!
If yes, what are their thoughts on your profession?
My kids are so supportive of my profession. Working in cannabis comes with an organic, feel-good factor. One can’t ignore the patient successes and the transformative, pivotal stories of how cannabis has positively changed lives. I’m so grateful to be able to hear and share those stories every day. I mentor my children, sharing how many job opportunities this new industry is creating. By planting seeds now, I’m hoping that perhaps someday they find a career in cannabis.
Anything else you would share with other Moms, working or not?
Cannabis has helped me become a better person and a better Mom. It eats me up that Mommy wine culture is so accepted and cannabis-using Moms are still in hiding. I would love more acceptance of cannabis in the Mom-sphere and ask any Mom that’s a cannabis ally to help us make this shift. By arming ourselves with cannabis education and using it responsibly, we will all reap the rewards that the plant provides. As much as I dislike the thought of giving a Mom more “work,” this is an assignment for us all!
Ebony Watkins, Recruitment Manager, Georgia
Tell us about your kids?
Noelle (9 months) and Chance (2-year-old)
What’s your favorite part of being a Mom?
My favorite part of being a Mom is the fact that I am a Mom! As crazy as it sounds, after battling infertility for 5 years, I was finally given my “Chance” to be a Mom and it is the best feeling ever.
What are some of the challenges of being a Mom in general?
Trying to be a perfect Mom when in fact there is no such thing as a perfect Mom! There is no handbook on how to Mom, so I am just making it up as I go. Also, forgetting to have time for yourself and not let yourself go!
Challenges of being a working Mom in particular?
The challenges I currently face include balancing work and being a Mom during a pandemic. I strive to give my all as an HR professional and a Mom and wife but will sometimes forget to give myself a little grace. Balancing both can sometimes be tricky, but then I remember the term “Mom grace.” I am grateful for Vireo and my wonderful HR team for understanding that I am a working Mom and never making me feel bad for that!
Have you talked to your kids about what you do for work – i.e., working at a cannabis company?
My kids are very young, but I will tell them that Mommy works for an industry helping to make a difference in people’s lives just like their Nana! I work for a company that helps Nana manage her pain and to make her smile. I will let them know that I am a part of the future of healthcare.
Anything else you would share with other Moms, working or not?
Always remember you are human and give yourself grace and take time for yourself. You are amazing and phenomenal! You are someone’s hero! You are a great Mom!
Cindy Hupf, District Manager Retail – Minnesota
Tell us about your kids?
I am the proud Mom of McKenna and Hallie.
What’s your favorite part of being a Mom?
The unconditional love my children and I have for each other. When they were little, it was amazing to see the world through their eyes. Now as they grow older, there are moments when my daughters say something profound, mature, and grown-up, and it really makes me step back and appreciate the small things.
What are some of the challenges of being a Mom in general?
Being a Mom is the most important job I have ever had. I have always taught my daughters to feel confident in their own skin and love themselves for who they are. Watching my daughters grow into independent young women and knowing that I had a hand in that makes my heart full.
Challenges of being a working Mom in particular?
Making sure you always make time and keep your family first. But I have also been so inspired by the compassionate, creative, and supportive Moms I get the privilege to work with every day at Vireo Health.
Have you talked to your kids about what you do for work – i.e., working at a cannabis company?
Yes, they know I work in the cannabis industry. When I got this position, I explained to them what the company does and what my role would be. They love the values of Vireo health and Green Goods and they are proud to tell their friends I work for a company that provides medical cannabis as a safer alternative to medicine! They understand that I go to work every day to help patients feel better.
Anything else you would share with other Moms, working or not?
My Mom demonstrated every day of her life how to be a fearless mother and a strong leader. She supported and cheered me on every step of my life. Her biggest advice as a mother, wife, and leader is to be a good listener and always be grateful for what you have.
From Theresa, Ebony, Cindy, and all of us at Vireo Health, Happy Mother’s Day!