Penny Stadick Heals Herself Naturally, Then Opens Herbz and Spicez to Help Others Do the Same

In this episode of The Fargo Five, host Conrad Fargo sits down with Penny Stadick, the passionate and endlessly credentialed owner of Herbz and Spicez in West Fargo. Penny shares the story of how her journey to heal herself from post-gastric bypass complications sparked a deep dive into holistic health, ultimately leading her to open her own bulk herb, spice, and tea shop—complete with Reiki services and a vast wall of wellness offerings.Listeners will get a vivid walkthrough of what to expect inside Penny’s store—from shelves lined with over 200 single herbs and nearly 80 spices, to specialty tea blends crafted for specific body systems and medicinal needs. She also explains how customers can bring their own jars, scoop what they need, and take home fresher, more potent botanicals than what's typically found in commercial grocery-store tea bags. Conrad, having visited the store himself, highlights unique items like menthol crystals and marshmallow root, and marvels at the blend of practical utility and visual beauty throughout the shop.Penny introduces listeners to Reiki—a non-touch energy healing modality—and talks about her work as a clinical aromatherapist, integrative nutritionist, and end-of-life doula. She reflects on her five-year apprenticeship under a master herbalist in Arizona, the success of in-store certification classes that inspired her own career, and her plan to begin teaching classes locally. Penny also shares how her early gastric bypass in 2002—which eventually led to white matter disease and other long-term complications—prompted her to reject overmedication in favor of herbal and nutritional healing methods.Throughout the conversation, Penny and Conrad touch on topics including:The power of continuing education and why Penny never stops learningHer time managing naturopathic clinics before moving to ArizonaThe difference between bulk botanical sales and pre-packaged supplementsHer roots in Jamestown and the long road that brought her back to the Fargo metroHow she uses teas, tinctures, oils, and salves to support her clients naturallyThe practical and spiritual dimensions of being an end-of-life doulaThe overlap between wellness, community, and accessible educationThis episode dives deep into Penny’s motivations, her commitment to helping others navigate their health challenges, and how she's creating the kind of resource she wishes had been available during her own lowest points. Whether you're into natural health, small business, personal transformation, or just want to hear a story of grit and growth, this is an episode worth your time. Listen in as we unpack the personal trials, practical insights, and powerful mission behind Herbz and Spicez in West Fargo.