Steve Podell

Steve Podell is an experienced executive in the fields of finance and operations, currently serving as Techne Fund III Operating Partner and Co-Manager GP II at Cypress Ascendant Holdings, LLC since 2024. Podell co-founded and holds the position of Chief Executive Officer at HYROAD since 2023, and previously acted as Chief Financial Officer at Petalfast in 2022. A seasoned professional in the cannabis industry, Podell served as a Cannabis Executive at Grupo Flor from 2016 to 2022 and as a Cannabis Executive Consultant at CYPRESS CONSULTING from 2014 to 2016. Leadership roles include President at Jimway from 2013 to 2014 and President/COO at Hunter Fan Company from 2009 to 2013. Podell's earlier career includes significant leadership positions at Encompass Lighting Group and E&J Gallo Winery, where responsibilities ranged from sales management to information technology. Podell holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance/Economics from California State University, Chico.