Ruben is the CEO of Phoenix Nutraceutical, Inc., Blak Mar Farms, LLC and Herbn Couture, LLC. A former professional athlete and veteran entrepreneur, Ruben has been involved in launching several successful startup businesses in the tech industry. Most importantly, as a key player in the hemp and legal cannabis space, Ruben is a strong proponent for social equity and creating opportunities for success for those adversely affected by systemic racism. He is one of the recipients of California’s GoBiz Cannabis Education Grant, used to fund initiatives aimed at building an ethical and equitable cannabis industry, including people of color and other marginalized community members. Along with his business partner Dr. Norris Dorsey, Ruben authored the book “The War on Legal Cannabis, Just Say Yes,” which is a guide to understanding and working in the legal cannabis industry. Ruben earned his MBA in Finance and Management from the Leonard M. Stern School of Business at NYU and his undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Buffalo. Lindo is an active member of Athletes for Care, which unites athletes as one voice to advocate for research, education, and compassion when addressing important health issues. Ruben is extremely active in a community-based relations program with the New York State Police, Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, and City of Kingston Police Department, working together to bridge the gap between the community and law enforcement. Ruben is the Director of the Hudson Valley Cannabis Industry Association and Director for the New York City Cannabis Industry Association. He is a board member, as well as the Chairman of Diversity and Inclusion and Social Equity in Business for the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation.