At just 24 years old, Xavier “Zay” Smith (@baeze.02) started like a lot of us in the Cannabis industry: Consuming on a casual level transformed into diving into the world’s ever-expanding knowledge of the plant. Splitting his time working at Storehouse and doing stagehand work in the music industry, his worlds have collided in a meaningful, rewarding way that serves his passions. Smith forms deep relationships with customers and co-workers, making every day in the industry something he feels blessed to be a part of.
What early family memories or personal experiences influenced your curiosity about the plant?
It was my late uncle Russell and then my mom; they used to go out and smoke weed on the back porch all the time. I didn’t know much about what they were doing, but I knew the smell and could see the glistening in their eyes. After they came inside, we would watch movies together and have the best time playing PS2. Those early 2000s movies were a big part of my household growing up. Also, the culture and influence Cannabis had in music played a big part in my curiosity.
How did your perspective on Cannabis transition from recreational enjoyment to a wellness-based approach?
At the start, it was just a tool to be social and another thing to do when hanging out with friends. The first time I smoked, I was definitely anxious. I knew where my mom’s stash was; I was watching and waiting until she went out, and that was the time for me to try it. I grabbed her little one-hitter and a pinch of her Blue Dream and took a hit that was followed by immediate paranoia. Moving forward to a little closer to today, in 2019, I wasn’t smoking as much at the time when I moved to Dundalk. I was having some issues with my sleep schedule and general everyday anxiety. I started smoking again and realized I was sleeping better and wasn’t as anxious or nervous as when I wasn’t smoking.
How has your understanding of Cannabis changed over time?
When I first started working at Storehouse, all I knew was “indica in the couch,” and sativa was something to use that wouldn’t make you tired. I didn’t know much about terpenes at the time, but now I use them as a tool to combat specific things and have learned a lot about them. I found my favorite terpene for pain and anxiety, and it was beta-myrcene. I have patients here that are going through specific struggles medically, and I recommend products based off of the knowledge of terpenes that I gained since working in the Cannabis industry.
What initially drew you to storehouse?
I used to be a customer here, and I really liked the vibes, plus I have always worked in retail, so it felt like an obvious choice. Retail with weed is a different story. As a customer, the staff always treated me right, either getting me in and out quickly or having a conversation with me about something we both love. What keeps me here is the community. Some customers wait for me because we have a relationship, and that is something you just can’t beat.
What are your hopes for the future of the industry
I know this is a rapidly growing industry on the East Coast, and I had no idea how expansive it was until I got into the industry. I attended the Maryland Leaf Bowl and some other Cannabis events, and it opened my eyes. I love budtending, and I’m really happy with where I’m at.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I stream video games online and pursue content creation, in addition to stagehand work for music production. Being able to meet musicians and celebrities in a working environment brings me so much joy. It’s really rewarding to be a part of putting something together that brings happiness to so many people.
