We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shana Lipner Grover. Check out our conversation below.
Shana, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My favorite way to start the day is with a cup of tea and a walk outside. As an herbalist, nature is my inspiration. I love to see the hummingbirds feed on flower nectar and connect with the gifts nature has to share. I’ve found that this helps me feel more grounded and contributes to my overall health in various ways.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Shana Lipner Grover. I am a clinical herbalist and field botanist. I have been teaching Herbal Medicine for over 20 years. I run our school, Sage Country Herbs, with my husband, Brandon Grover. We are the premier herbal field apprenticeship in Southern California. I teach people not only how to use herbs safely and effectively, but also how to view themselves as an integral part of nature. We call our community herbal field program ‘Botanical Eyes’ because we teach people how to feel confident in identifying plants around them. My passion is connecting people to their local farming community, especially small family farms. Southern California has a tremendous amount of abundance, and local farms are a great place to access this and support the community.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
When I started my Herbal Field Apprenticeship, I also managed a vitamin department for a local natural market and taught at a local holistic health school. As my Apprenticeship grew, it began to put a strain on my managing job. Eventually, I was offered a significant promotion at my job, which would require prioritizing the company’s needs over my aspirations to develop a school of my own. I sat down with my husband, Brandon, to discuss our next steps. I was surprised when he strongly encouraged me to turn down the promotion, quit my management job, and pursue my dreams. Brandon could see my passion and recognized its growth potential. His support gave me the confidence to go for it!
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Never give up on yourself. Dream big and pursue those with passion and hard work. You are not limited by where you came from or what others think of you. Do not settle for a life that doesn’t light you up, and let your passion for being connected to the earth and community inspire the path you take.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I started Sage Country Herbs to inspire people to recognize the gifts that nature and community connection have to offer. My goal is to empower individuals with the benefits of herbal medicine and provide them with education about themselves and the world around them. This will enable them to solve problems using natural tools and understand how their bodies work. Beyond our hybrid field and online program, we offer a variety of community events to inspire connection to people, place, and plants. From our Botanical Field Program to our online Community Herbal Program, our Farm-to-Table Herbal Skill Program, and our Herbal Festivals, we strive to provide educational experiences that fit into anyone’s lifestyle.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Nothing, I am blessed to live the life that I want. Every day, I immerse myself in nature and share it with as many people as possible. It is an honor to be an ambassador of nature and its many gifts to all of us. It’s been a long journey to get here, and I would not trade it for anything. Each day, I reflect on the gratitude I feel for discovering this type of life, one that fills me up and makes me feel alive while positively impacting my health and community. I’ve often found a little secret to a good life: finding joy in the day-to-day experiences and feeling a sense of connection. Living with meaning and purpose is worth more than riches and fame any day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sagecountryherbs.com
- Instagram: @sagecountryherbs
- Facebook: @sagecountryherbs
