Meet Derek Cumings, Co-Founder and R&D Leader at Medically Correct
Derek Cumings, Helping To Pave The Way for The Nation's Cannabis Industry
Over 10 years ago, at the onset of Colorado medical cannabis legalization, Medically Correct was born with a mission to make cannabis products safe and accessible to patients in need. We launched the incredibles chocolate bar line and our early focus on consistency and quality propelled us to the top of the Colorado edibles market. We’ve since grown into the highest volume edibles company in the state! Our success and longevity are a true testament to our incredible leadership team.
We connected with our Co-Founder and R&D Leader, Derek Cumings, to hear more about his journey within the cannabis industry and Medically Correct. This is what he shared with us.
Q&A with Derek Cumings
Derek, what inspired you to join the cannabis industry?
About 22 years ago, I became my first patient after a fall that broke both of my legs and compressed discs in my lower back. Early on, I decided I didn’t want to take part in the treatment plan put forth by the doctors who were backed by pharmaceutical companies. After several legal issues as a young man for cannabis possession and use, I was pretty much forced to quit. However, just a couple of short years later, medical cannabis laws were passed in Colorado and California. In the midst of hating my current medical situation, I was given a joint by a friend for nausea and that small reintroduction opened my eyes.
I thought the possible long-term effects from pills were much worse than any problems I had with cannabis and I didn't want to treat lifelong ailments with something that had such harmful potential. I began using more and more cannabis in different ways, simultaneously taking fewer and fewer pills. My quality of life increased 10x. I then convinced my parents of the safety and efficacy of cannabis, and once they understood, I didn’t care what anyone else thought. I was able to actively go out and push for Colorado's changes and cannabis laws. As I joined local patient groups, I realized I already obtained more knowledge and experience than most; the people within the places I looked to for answers were much further behind. So, I began helping them.
About 15 years ago, I owned one of the first ten dispensaries in Colorado, Harmony Wellness in Windsor. After that, I pushed my way through the industry on multiple levels through edibles and concentrates, and this is when I met Rick and Bob.
How did you learn to create cannabis oil, then edibles, and other infused products?
Making the jump from smoking to edibles was huge in my personal treatment plan. Edibles were outrageously overpriced and equally inconsistent. Using the 'caregiver' providers available at the time was the only option for cannabis products other than flower, or occasionally water or scissor hash. I was determined to bridge the gap because there needed to be a better answer. At the time, trim was a liability for growers, so I began turning waste into wonder.
In a pre-Youtube world, I was taught by an elderly patient about rudimentary solvent extractions. After nailing down procedures for making ultra-potent, solvent-based concentrates, I was able to put it in almost anything. I moved quickly to cakes, chocolates, ice cream, olive oil, pizza, drinks, and the crown jewel of the time -- hard candy. I swapped ideas with some of the only people in the game at the time, and that was when the first true product lines were born.
What in your current position are you most passionate about?
I’m most passionate about my presence in cannabis. I grew complacent over time and I’ve realized it’s time to stop taking that for granted.
There’s a buzz about your new upcoming brand, Zelō. What can you share with us about it, Derek?
Introducing people to cannabis for the first time has always been one of my favorite motivators. And while those opportunities are few and far between, compared to a decade ago, I’m excited for the possibilities of the new projects reaching fresh faces. Cost and confusion have long been two of the barriers to entry for patients and customers looking to try edibles for the first time, and we’re hoping to change that with Zelō. Zelō is for the people.
Connect with Derek Cumings, Medically Correct Co-Founder and R&D Leader
It’s easy to see how Derek’s contributions over the years have played such a big role in our success and we sure are grateful for him. Reach out to connect with him on Instagram and keep in touch with Medically Correct by entering your contact information here.
We’d love to stay connected!
