Meet Coleman: The Hands-On Co-Owner Making Waves at The Rec Dispensary

When you walk into The Rec Dispensary, you might spot Coleman, a lifelong North Carolina local. He’s the kind of person who keeps everything running smoothly—from managing the technology to ensuring the quality of every product on the shelves. His hands-on approach and friendly nature make him a cornerstone of The Rec’s success.

Growing up in the area, he has built relationships that span decades. This local connection means that when you visit The Rec, you’re not just a customer—you’re part of a community. Coleman often runs into people he knows, whether it’s a longtime friend or a new face who’s become a regular.

Read on to learn more about Coleman.

Coleman is a born and raised NC local.

Favorite part of being part of the REC'D team:

Helping people improve their quality of life through education. I love seeing customers become more confident in their cannabis choices and watching the stigma disappear once they realize cannabis can be a legitimate wellness tool. We have an incredible team that creates a welcoming, judgment-free environment where everyone feels comfortable asking questions.

How long in North Carolina?

I've called North Carolina home for most of my life. I grew up here, but I've also had the opportunity to travel extensively, live in several other states, and even spend time living overseas. Those experiences gave me a great appreciation for what we have here, and I'm grateful to have built my businesses and put down roots in this community.

What's a "hidden gem" you think most people miss?

The small towns throughout the foothills. Communities like Conover, Hickory, and the surrounding areas are full of locally owned restaurants, breweries, hiking trails, and some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. They're the kind of places where people still know their neighbors and support local businesses.

What is your favorite spot in town to relax or spend a day off?

Lake Norman is tough to beat. Whether I'm out on the boat, grabbing dinner at Toucan's or Blue Parrot, or simply watching the sunset over the water, it's my favorite place to recharge. And if I have a full day to spare, the Blue Ridge Mountains are close enough for an easy getaway.

What's surprised you the most about living in North Carolina?

Even after living here for years, I'm still amazed by how much variety the state offers. You can spend one day hiking in the mountains, the next relaxing on Lake Norman, and be at the beach just a few hours later. It's hard to find another state that offers so much within such a short drive.

What do you wish more people knew about North Carolina?

North Carolina isn't just a beautiful place to visit—it's an incredible place to build a life. The people genuinely care about their communities, local businesses thrive because of that support, and there's a quality of life here that's hard to match.

Where is the best place to watch a sunset, sunrise, or take a great photo?

For sunsets, it's hard to beat Lake Norman. The reflections across the water never get old. If you're chasing a sunrise or mountain views, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the most breathtaking scenery anywhere on the East Coast.

If you had 36 hours to show someone the best of this area, what would you do?

I'd start the morning with breakfast at Claremont Cafe before exploring downtown Hickory and some of its local shops. Then we'd head to Lake Norman for an afternoon on the water, followed by dinner at one of the lakefront restaurants and a sunset cruise. The next morning, we'd make an early drive toward the Blue Ridge Mountains for a hike and scenic overlooks before stopping at a local brewery or winery on the way home. It perfectly captures what I love about North Carolina—small-town charm, incredible scenery, great food, and endless opportunities to get outside.