IgniteIt, a media and events platform focused on emerging and regulated markets, announced that Whoopi Goldberg will headline its upcoming Market Spotlight: New Jersey conference on February 10, 2026, at The Westin Jersey City Newport. Goldberg, along with business associates Davina Kaonohi and Melissa Jochim, Founding Partners of Beauty Evolution, will participate in a 30-minute moderated conversation from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM exploring the intersection of culture, wellness, and entrepreneurship.
The session will cover Goldberg's personal wellness journey, the evolution and strategy behind WhoopFam's new wellness line, and how cannabis is increasingly shaping mainstream consumer conversations. New Jersey attorney and longtime IgniteIt collaborator Lou Magazzu will moderate the discussion, which is expected to be one of the conference's most anticipated sessions. Goldberg has been an outspoken advocate for accessible, responsibly produced cannabis, and through WhoopFam's new wellness line, she continues to push for education, normalization, and thoughtful product innovation in a rapidly evolving market.
Javier Hasse, co-founder of IgniteIt, noted Goldberg's genuine long-term commitment to cannabis advocacy. "Having spoken with Whoopi about cannabis extensively a few years ago, what stayed with me is how genuine it is for her," Hasse said. "This isn't a trend or a talking point. She's been thinking about this plant, and talking about it, long before it was widely accepted." Elliot Lane, President of IgniteIt, emphasized Goldberg's cultural influence, stating, "Whoopi Goldberg is one of the most influential cultural voices of our time. Her perspective on wellness, business, and the evolution of cannabis resonates far beyond this industry."
Market Spotlight: New Jersey will convene leading multi-state operators, New Jersey license holders, investors, and industry stakeholders for a full day of deal-making, market intelligence, and strategic networking. The event reflects IgniteIt's focus on connecting operators, investors, and policymakers through high-impact education and strategic networking. More information and tickets are available at https://www.cannabismarketspotlight.com/new-jersey-2026/home.
The conference's inclusion of a high-profile celebrity like Goldberg signals the cannabis industry's continued push toward mainstream acceptance and normalization. As cannabis becomes increasingly integrated into wellness and consumer culture, events like Market Spotlight provide crucial platforms for education and dialogue. Goldberg's participation highlights how cultural figures can influence public perception and drive responsible growth in regulated markets. For New Jersey's cannabis industry, which includes both established operators and new license holders, this conference offers opportunities for networking and strategic development as the market evolves.
Goldberg's focus on wellness and responsible production aligns with broader industry trends toward quality, safety, and consumer education. Her advocacy for accessible cannabis products could influence product development and marketing strategies across the sector. As the cannabis industry faces ongoing regulatory challenges and public scrutiny, voices like Goldberg's help bridge the gap between industry insiders and mainstream consumers. The Market Spotlight series, which brings regional industry leaders together to share insights and forge relationships, demonstrates how targeted events can accelerate responsible growth in emerging markets.
