Hello, my name is Steve Schachtschneider, owner of Grandfather Medicinals, a company focusing on providing wild foraged, ethically harvested medicinal and gourmet mushrooms and plants. My roots run deep as I began foraging for Morel mushrooms with my father as a 4 or 5-year-old child. I did not understand my father’s excitement upon locating morels at the time, but as I grew older and moved to North Carolina I experienced that same feeling myself. I began researching after I stumbled across a group of Morels on a riverbank in South Carolina many years ago. I found that while the size and amounts of Morels in the Southeast were not as large nor prevalent as in other parts of the country, they were still inhabiting this region. The fire that was rekindled led me to Asheville, where I have been able to develop a definite pattern for finding Morels in the spring. In Asheville I met another mushroom enthusiast who helped me learn how to find several other species such as Chanterelles, Chaga, Reishi, Maitake, Lions Mane, and many others. Four years ago, I began selling fresh mushrooms seasonally, and making products like tinctures and dehydrated edible and medicinal mushrooms. I took a course which certifies me in 9 states to sell 20 types of mushrooms (certification # 1229, expires 11/22/2026). I am discovering that there is a lot of interest in mushrooms and their many health benefits, which has prompted me to share the bounty I receive with others, via markets, website, and word of mouth. I am deeply grateful for those who sparked my interest, held my hand, and everyone who has helped me to realize a truly rewarding way to make a living which only brings goodness into others’ lives. Thank you!