Journeys Through Change- Inspiration for Women to Create a Life they Love

Lauren Schmidt: A Love Affair That Led Her to Create ‘A Tree That Grows’- An Organization Committed to Global Impact

Noelle Van Episode 46

Sometimes life shows us that the experiences we’ve had were the building blocks to get us to a place we are meant to be. Our guest today shares her story of how an idea can come out of nowhere, leading us toward alignment with what we know we were meant to do and living on purpose with ease and flow. This week on Journeys Through Change, my guest Lauren Schmidt shares how a love affair led her to create A Tree That Grows- an organization committed to global impact. 


Sparked by her interest in Jane Goodall, Lauren Schmidt took her first trip to Tanzania, an experience that began a love affair she just couldn’t shake. After returning home to complete her Masters of Social Work from Columbia University she returned to Tanzania for 10 more years. As time went on, she recalls cringing as volunteer organizations would roll into town with programs to ‘educate the community’ - knowing it could be so much better. So, she decided to design her own. As the pandemic forced many out of the country, Lauren stayed to carry out her mission and from there, A Tree That Grows was born. A Tree that Grows empowers youth to use their passion and strengths to design projects that support communities around the world. With volunteer fellowships, residencies, and an invitation to pitch their project at a global impact conference, it provides them with the opportunity for growth and self-discovery while addressing real-world issues and providing sustainable solutions along the way.



In this episode, Lauren and I discuss:

  • Lauren’s first trip to Tanzania sparked her love affair with the country and a promise to return time and time again. 
  • The inspiration and mission behind her organization ‘A Tree That Grows’.
  • Helping students find a sense of purpose is much more impactful than academic grades or accolades. 
  • The priceless lessons she learned about herself and others when given the opportunity to be of service. 



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CONNECT WITH LAUREN SCHMIDT:

A Tree That Grows Website

Lauren Schmidt- LinkedIn



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