Budtender of the Month: Jason Smith, The Nug Co.
August 08, 2026
When you love cannabis as much as Jason, budtending comes naturally. With an endless thirst for knowledge and a love of learning, Jason knows what's up. We're so excited to feature Jason and showcase just one of the incredible budtenders that adds so much value and heart to this industry. Kudos, Jason!
Why are you passionate about your role?
I'm passionate about my role because I'm passionate about cannabis. I came to know and love cannabis during the legacy days, and I never imaged actually working in the legal Cannabis industry. Before budtending, I had two different careers and while they had their moments, I couldn't be happier to be talking all day with our customers about the ins and outs of weed!
What is one thing you wish all customers knew?
I wish customers knew more about The Entourage Effect (terpenes and cannabinoids working together) and how that gives a more well-rounded, and ultimately, better purchase and experience. I am a fan of High THC products myself but know that the high can be fleeting and dissipating quickly. Also, I wish every customer knew to bring their ID with them to a dispensary - you wouldn't go to the hospital without your ID!
What is your number one tip for your colleagues on how to excel in their roles?
Learn as much as you can. Don't just take Cannsell Standard, take the CannSell Expert course too. Take every online course you can. Join Budtender Advocacy groups like High Buds Club and listen to their product knowledge sessions. Try out products your store sells so you know what you're selling and how you feel about it. There are many industry events that are often free, like BSDS, Tether, or Kind where you can sample their latest products and get to know your local reps.
If you could have any other role in the industry, what would it be and why?
I could see myself in a role where I am acting as Retail Buyer, Director of Purchasing for multiple stores in a chain, because I like to take what I learn about cannabis products and put it to good use, choosing only what I believe are the best products that my colleagues, peers and I, find worthy of supporting.
What are you excited about for the future of cannabis in Canada? What do you envision?
I am definitely excited about the future of cannabis in Canada! 8 years into legalization, I'm finally noticing less stigma around cannabis usage. I envision a future with cannabis drinks and products for sale at public events like concerts and sporting matches and consumption lounges (in the spirit of Hot Box Cafe) for the public to enjoy. I would also love to see a future where medical professionals are empowered to prescribe cannabis options and solutions, as opposed to harmful addictive narcotics.
Anything else you want to tell us about yourself?
When I'm not budtending, I love attending concerts, playing PS5 games, running my own independent electronic music record label, reading comics, and most of all, my 2 cat 'daughters' Mira and Lula.
I'm very grateful for being recognized as Cannsell's Bud of the Month, it means a lot to me! If you are in the Dundas and Ossington area in Toronto, I implore you to check out the awesome store I work at, The Nug Co, 1213 Dundas West. We have a great selection and I know our customers love our store's vibe.
Join budtender groups and try products
Jason understands and appreciates the value of networking and collaborating with industry groups and peers. Between his attendance at diverse industry events, his understanding of the value of sampling products sold at your store, and his unending desire to educate himself on all things cannabis, it's clear why Jason is exemplary. These skills translate on the floor and empower Jason to guide customers with a deep and ever-expanding knowledge base. Thanks for keeping the vibes high, Jason!
Congratulations, Jason! Thank you for the care you bring to your role and to the people you serve.
Know a budtender who goes above and beyond? Nominate them for a future Budtender of the Month at cannsell.ca/community/budtenders.