Josh Schmidt: Inside the Mind of Natura’s VP of Biz Dev
Grow World
In this candid conversation, we sit down with Josh Schmidt, VP of Business Development at Natura Life Sciences, to explore his personal journey with cannabis—from his earliest encounters to the pivotal role it’s played in shaping his career. Josh pulls back the curtain on the misconceptions he’s battled, the innovations that excite him, and the lessons he’s learned while helping to build one of the most dynamic companies in the plant-based wellness space. Tune in for an honest look at how passion, persistence, and a belief in the transformative power of cannabis have guided Josh from curious enthusiast to industry leader.
00:00 Introduction & Cultural Inspiration
00:47 Building an Always-Evolving Brand
01:38 Inside the Grow World Community
02:19 Partner Spotlight & Industry Collaboration
03:18 Building a Loyal Community (“Street Team”)
04:23 The Power of Networking & Connection
05:15 Old-School Hospitality Meets Modern Business
06:27 From Rolodex to Digital Relationships
06:45 A Life of Travel & Global Perspective
07:41 First Cultural Influences & Early Experiences
09:14 Travel Before the Internet Era
10:34 Why Travel Is the Best Education
11:29 Finding Yourself Through New Environments
12:20 Learning Language & Cultural Respect
13:41 The Importance of Communication & Belonging
14:44 Discovering Thailand
16:35 First Impressions That Changed Everything
17:30 Why Thailand Feels Different
18:24 Global Markets & Rapid Growth
20:34 Building a Culturally Inspired Brand
22:08 Turning Ideas Into Real Products
23:35 Nostalgia, Packaging & Consumer Experience
26:03 Sharing Culture Through Products
26:39 Building a House of Brands
28:07 Why Owning Your Brand Matters
29:40 Inspiration from Collectibles & Culture
31:07 Constant Innovation & Product Evolution
33:50 Expanding Into New Brand Concepts
36:10 Traditional Knowledge Meets Modern Products
37:53 Market Trends & Consumer Preferences
39:57 Strength vs. Experience in Products
41:25 Building for Global Standards
42:23 The Vision for Global Expansion
44:40 Emerging International Markets
45:46 Cultural History & Global Shifts
47:06 Import vs Export Economies
49:33 Lessons from Global Trade (Coffee, Rice, Sugar)
51:18 Commodities vs Branded Products
53:07 Distribution Challenges Worldwide
55:01 Regulation vs Access Debate
55:59 What a Brand Really Means
56:52 The Future Vision (10-Year Outlook)