420TV, the premium cannabis news, entertainment and lifestyle channel set to launch in January 2018, has signed TV personality and social entrepreneur Quddus Philippe to host “Cannabiz,” a series exploring the cannabis industry’s established and emerging innovators.

Quddus will delve into the stories behind the canna-billionaires of tomorrow, taking a deeper look into the pioneers of the recreational and medical marijuana industry. Each of the series’ 10 episodes is dedicated to a company that is making a unique mark on the surging cannabis business and impact. Quddus will introduce viewers to how each cannabis start-up found its success and what its future will look like within the rapidly changing social and political landscape. 

Quddus rose to international stardom as a host on MTV's hit show "Total Request Live" (TRL), which inspired the Associated Press to call him the “coolest guy on television.” He then turned his passion to digital, where he has been an avid influencer ever since. Quddus was not only one of the first to create premium content for YouTube, but has also hosted some of the net’s biggest live streaming events, breaking records alongside major stars. An entrepreneur himself, Quddus has gone from interviewing stars to also developing them for their appearances through his groundbreaking media training program, Camera Ready.

"As marijuana goes mainstream, 420TV is in a pioneering role. Breaking new ground for cannabis reminds me of how MTV changed the landscape of music,” said Quddus. “I’m excited to highlight the business rockstars that are moving this industry forward and impacting so many lives in the process. Considering the proven health benefits of cannabis, it’s time that it gets the shine it deserves. And the stories we’re doing are actually uncovering the insights and practical takeaways that any entrepreneur will find valuable in building their business.”  

“We always thought that Quddus would be a great fit to host this series,” said Marta Tracy, Head of Talent and Development for OWNZONES Media Network, which is launching 420TV. “But learning that Quddus, himself, is an entrepreneur makes his role in ‘Cannabiz’ that much more relevant. He brings a special insight to the process, knowing what makes these entrepreneurs tick and asking just the right questions to deliver some truly compelling interviews.”

Currently shooting across the country, “Cannabiz” was created for 420TV by Jon Brewer and Benjamin Cassou, and is being executive produced by Jordan Browning, Jon Brewer and Benjamin Cassou of Bounty Content. The series is slated to debut on the new network when it launches in January 2018.

“As legalization continues to expand, so does the cannabis industry landscape, which presents a huge opportunity for both accomplished purveyors and newly emerging innovators. That’s where ‘Cannabiz’ comes in… with Quddus guiding us through a fascinating look at some of those companies and the people behind them,” added Doug Lee, OWNZONES’ Head of Programming.

About 420TV 
Debuting in early 2018, and initially available through 420TV.com and its mobile applications, 420TV is a premium 4K video-on-demand network devoted to all things cannabis. It will deliver original programming produced exclusively for the multi-platform channel, in addition to acquired long- and short-form entertainment. Content categories in development include news, information, food, fashion, comedy, music and animation, as well as acquired feature films, documentaries, music and live streaming events. 420TV was developed by 420 Entertainment Group, comprised of OWNZONES Media Network, Genesis Media and Alex Nahai Enterprises. For more information, please follow www.420TV.com.