Meet Carol Smith | Community Herbalist & Owner of Green Magick Apothecary

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carol Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carol, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind starting Green Magick Apothecary was deeply personal. My journey into herbalism began as a necessity—I was navigating my own healing after a serious health complication from an undiagnosed autoimmune disorder forced me to step away from my career as a cosmetologist. During my recovery, I discovered the powerful potential of herbs and natural remedies, which not only helped me heal but ignited a passion to help others.

At the same time, my husband, Jonathan, a three-time Iraq War veteran, was facing his own chronic pain challenges. Through his connections in the veteran community, I saw how many others were also seeking effective, natural alternatives for relief. This inspired me to create Mystikal Muscle Rub, a balm designed to ease muscular pain. When it resonated so strongly—especially with veterans—I realized I had something truly meaningful to offer.

From that single product, Green Magick Apothecary grew into a full line of herbal balms and skincare, all rooted in the belief that nature has the power to heal, and that true healing happens within a supportive community. What started as a personal journey has become a mission to help others, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to do so.

What should our readers know about your business?
Green Magick Apothecary is more than just a business—it’s my heart, my passion, and my purpose. What sets us apart is not just the quality of our products but the deep intention and care behind them. Every balm, every blend is crafted with the belief that nature holds powerful healing potential and that we all deserve access to remedies that truly nurture our well-being. But more than just selling products, I want to share knowledge, foster connection, and create a space where people feel supported on their own healing journeys.

My path to creating Green Magick Apothecary was anything but easy. At 39, I faced a life-altering health crisis—an emergency open-heart surgery that forced me to completely reevaluate my life. I was already at an emotional crossroads. My kids were grown, I had no trade anymore, and my future felt like a blank slate. It was terrifying, but it also became an opportunity for reinvention. As I navigated my recovery, I found myself drawn to herbalism. Learning about the healing power of plants wasn’t just interesting—it was transformative. And as I applied that knowledge to my own healing, I realized I had found my purpose.

I started crafting herbal remedies, first for myself and then for others. My husband, Jonathan, was my biggest supporter, encouraging me every step of the way. When I created Mystikal Muscle Rub to help with his chronic pain—and saw how much it helped others, especially veterans—it became clear that this was what I was meant to do. Seeing my products truly make a difference in people’s lives is what makes me most proud. That’s why I do this.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned on this journey is to trust my intuition. My work relies heavily on it—on understanding the nuances of herbs, formulation, and even the needs of the people I serve. The more I trust myself, the more my belief in my own abilities is confirmed.

What I want the world to know is this: Green Magick Apothecary isn’t just about products. It’s about people. It’s about healing. I’m not just here to sell—I’m here to share, to educate, and to connect. Every balm, every elixir carries a piece of my story, and my hope is that they bring comfort and empowerment to others on their own journeys. Because healing is more than just a remedy—it’s a community, a connection, and a little bit of magic.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Colorado Springs for a week, I’d make sure they got the full experience—breathtaking nature, quirky art, amazing food, and, of course, some rock shopping (because gotta have those crystals!). Here’s how I’d plan the ultimate week:

Day 1: Classic Colorado Springs
We’d kick things off with a visit to Garden of the Gods, because no trip to the Springs is complete without walking among those towering red rock formations. After hiking and taking in the views, we’d head downtown for lunch at Mediterranean Cafe—they have the best gyros, hands down. Afterward, we’d grab a chai from Kairos Coffee, a local gem with a mission-driven business model that makes every sip feel even better.

Day 2: Pike’s Peak & Rock Shopping
Time for a day trip up Pike’s Peak! Whether we drive or take the Cog Railway, the views from the summit are unreal. But the real highlight? Stopping at Pike’s Peak Rock Shop to pick up some gorgeous crystals. Because let’s be honest—what’s a trip to Colorado without adding some new stones to the collection?

Day 3: Wildlife & Views
We’d start the day at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, where you can feed giraffes while looking out over the entire city—one of the most unique zoos in the country. For dinner, we’d check out one of the great local spots, maybe Phantom Canyon Brewing for a laid-back vibe and some solid craft beers.

Day 4: Denver Day Trip
Time to switch it up and head to Denver! First stop: Meow Wolf, because if you haven’t stepped into this mind-bending immersive art world, you’re missing out. After that, we’d wind down with a visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis with stunning plant life from all over the world. Dinner could be something fun like Linger or Root Down, both of which serve up incredible food in unique settings.

Day 5: Exploring Old Colorado City & Manitou Springs
We’d spend a day strolling through Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs, two charming areas packed with art galleries, quirky shops, and natural mineral springs you can drink from. We’d also check out The Loop for some killer Mexican food and margaritas before heading to the Manitou Incline (if we’re feeling ambitious) or just a scenic walk at Red Rock Canyon Open Space.

Day 6: Relax & Rejuvenate
After an active week, we’d take it easy—maybe start with a slow morning at Kairos Coffee for another chai (because it’s that good) and then visit a local spa for a bit of relaxation. In the evening, we’d hit up The Rabbit Hole, an underground speakeasy-style restaurant with delicious food and a cool, mysterious vibe.

Day 7: One Last Adventure
For the final day, we’d leave things open—maybe revisit a favorite spot or check out a lesser-known hiking trail. Then, one last incredible meal before saying goodbye to an unforgettable week in Colorado Springs.

Between the stunning landscapes, the thriving local food scene, and the mix of adventure and relaxation, I’d make sure my best friend had the best time in my favorite place.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There’s no question that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of my husband, Jonathan. He has been my rock, my cheerleader, and my greatest source of strength. When my health took a turn and I had to step away from my career as a cosmetologist, he nursed me through some of my hardest days—physically, emotionally, and mentally. He never let me lose sight of my own resilience and constantly reminded me that I still had so much to offer the world.

Jonathan has supported me through every step of this journey, encouraging me to embrace my passion for herbalism and helping me see that my knowledge and experience could truly make a difference. He believed in me even when I doubted myself, pushing me to take the leap and start Green Magick Apothecary. And beyond the emotional support, he’s been hands-on—connecting with the veteran community, helping to get our products into the hands of those who need them most, and being an integral part of our mission.

His love, encouragement, and belief in me have made me feel unstoppable, and for that, I will always be grateful. Green Magick Apothecary is just as much his legacy as it is mine, and I couldn’t ask for a better partner in life and in this business. So this shoutout belongs to him—my husband, my rock, and the person who makes this all possible.

Website: https://greenmagickapothecary.com

Instagram: @greenmagickapothecary

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