Lawrence “Laz” DeSimone is a proud FDNY first responder by day and a curious herbalist by night.

During his firehouse tours, Laz became known for sharing homemade teas, tinctures, and nutritional supplements — small acts of care designed to help his fellow firefighters manage stress and support their well-being on the job.

His love of ice cream runs deep. It started with his mom, who worked at a Carvel ice cream shop as a teenager — she even has an ice cream cone tattoo. That sweet nostalgia, combined with Laz’s passion for plant medicine, led to something new: Laz’s Ice Cream — a feel-good take on a classic indulgence.

Laz earned his master’s in Sustainability and Urban Planning and completed his herbalist apprenticeship in 2020 with Sacred Vibes Apothecary. He lives in upstate New York with his wife, a climate journalist, and together they share a deep commitment to nourishing people and the planet.