Ari Raz is a distinguished entrepreneur and executive in the natural foods industry, renowned for his leadership and innovative contributions.

Before joining The Coconut Cult in August 2021, Ari co-founded Once Upon a Farm, a company specializing in cold-pressed baby food, where he held the positions of CEO and later President from 2015 to 2021. Once Upon a Farm is currently on a $250M revenue run rate and valued at over $1B.

His tenure was marked by significant growth and the establishment of the brand as a trusted name in children's nutrition.

Under Ari's leadership, The Coconut Cult has grown from a $2.7M annual revenue business to a $36M revenue run rate actual and $57M revenue run rate if capacity existed to fill all orders.

His strategic vision continues to propel The Coconut Cult toward new heights in the plant-based yogurt market.

He is also the President of Naturally San Diego, a nonprofit organization and business network that fosters sustainability and responsible business practices, stimulates conscious growth, supports entrepreneurship, and develops leadership in the San Diego natural products community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ari Raz and His Journey

01:01 Inspiration from Family and Early Experiences

05:45 The Birth of Once Upon a Farm

10:51 Branding and Marketing in the Food Industry

15:09 The Role of Jennifer Garner in Once Upon a Farm

24:12 Commitment to Growth

26:00 Navigating Leadership Transitions

28:42 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business

30:51 Manifestation and Intuition in Entrepreneurship

33:54 Building Naturally San Diego

40:22 Personal Biohacks for Entrepreneurs

48:05 Mindfulness and Global Awareness

Contact Ari Raz:

president@naturallysandiego.org

https://naturallysandiego.org/

https://thecoconutcult.com/

Contact Liesl Bernard:

liesl@kalonstaffing.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

www.leadingforwellness.com

In this inspiring episode, Liesl Bernard interviews Susan Buckwalter Hartman, co-founder of Recoup Beverage, discussing her journey from corporate marketing to entrepreneurship, the unique aspects of Recoup's products, and the personal stories that inspired their creation.

They explore the challenges of building a brand in a competitive beverage market, balancing family life with entrepreneurship, and the future plans for Recoup, including their recognition in the industry and commitment to regenerative organic practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Recoup Drinks and Susan's Background

02:12 The Leap to Entrepreneurship

04:07 What Sets Recoup Apart

09:10 The Unique Ingredients of Recoup

12:42 Challenges in Building a Brand

15:48 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family Life

18:46 Future Plans for Recoup

22:37 Recognition and Industry Impact

Contact Susan Buckwalter Hartman:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-buckwalter-hartman-704a19a/

https://www.instagram.com/recoupwellness/

https://www.recoupwellness.com/

Connect with Liesl Bernard:

liesl@kalonstaffing.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

www.leadingforwellness.com

Madelyn Hadley is the founder of Madly Hadley, a San Diego-based innovative plant-based food brand. With a background as a private chef focused on plant-based cooking, she worked closely with naturopathic doctors and their patients to create delicious, health-conscious meals. Motivated by a passion to make her chef-quality, vegan, soy-free, and gluten-free recipes accessible to a wider audience, she launched Madly Hadley in 2021. The brand is known for its popular products like coconut bacon bits and cashew Parmesan, which are available nationally in Sprouts and nationally in Whole Foods Market and other natural grocers. Madelyn's mission is to transform familiar foods into healthier, environmentally friendly versions that delight consumers while supporting wellness and sustainability.

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In this inspiring episode, Liesl Bernard sits down with Madelyn Hadley, the dynamic CEO of a thriving vegan snack brand, to explore her path from personal shopper at Whole Foods to trailblazing entrepreneur. Madelyn opens up about the leap of faith that took her from grocery aisles to launching her own line of plant-based products—driven by passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to wellness.

She shares the challenges and lessons she’s faced breaking into the competitive food industry, offering honest insights on everything from sourcing ingredients to scaling a startup. She also dives into her creative process—how she approaches product development, packaging design, and building a brand that truly resonates with today’s conscious consumer.

Madelyn discusses the strategies she’s used to connect with customers, build a loyal following, and spread the message that healthy, flavorful food can be for everyone—no matter your dietary choices. This episode is full of practical advice, authentic stories, and empowering takeaways for anyone looking to turn their vision into reality.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: From Personal Shopper to CEO

03:05 Creating Vegan Alternatives: The Inspiration Behind the Products

05:57 Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from the Food Industry

09:01 Vision for the Future: Expanding Offerings and Market Reach

11:55 Mindset and Personal Practices: Staying Grounded as an Entrepreneur

15:05 Creative Expression: The Art Behind the Brand

18:06 Building a Team: From Solo Entrepreneur to Collaborative Efforts

21:01 Marketing Strategies: Spreading the Word About Vegan Products

24:06 The Broader Impact: Making Plant-Based Eating Accessible to All

26:51 Connecting with the Community: Engaging Customers and Investors

Connect with Madelyn Hadley:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelyn-hadley-29542394/

https://www.madlyhadley.com/

https://www.instagram.com/madlyhadleymagic/

Connect with Liesl Bernard:

liesl@leadingforwellness.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/leading-for-wellness/

www.leadingforwellness.com

Sam Schatz is the CEO of Biohm Technologies, a company pioneering microbiome-based ingredients using proprietary datasets that integrate genetic analysis, metadata, and AI. Joining Biohm in 2021 as President, he became CEO in 2023, driving business expansion, capital raising, and P&L management. Previously, Sam was Managing Director at AeroFarms, scaling it to 300+ employees. With more than 15 years of experience in management and entrepreneurship, Sam holds an MSc from London School of Economics and a BA from Columbia University and serves on leadership councils at 92NY and YPO Polaris.

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In this episode of Leading for Wellness, Liesl Bernard interviews Sam Schatz, CEO of Biohm Technologies, about the intersection of data science and biology in understanding the human microbiome. Sam discusses the importance of both bacterial and fungal microbiome data, the balance of Candida in gut health, and the innovative testing methods used to personalize health recommendations.

The conversation also explores the link between microbiome health and longevity, as well as Biohm's AI-driven discovery platform for developing new health products.

Sam also discusses the innovative approaches of Biohm Technologies in enhancing nutrient absorption through their product Mycosa, the importance of expanding microbiome research beyond gut health, and the future of microbiome science with a focus on postbiotics.

He emphasizes the need for targeted formulations based on clinical data and the role of fungi in gut health.

Additionally, he shares insights on cultivating a culture of innovation within his remote team and personal health strategies that contribute to longevity and wellbeing.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Biohme Technologies and Sam Schatz

01:03 The Intersection of Data Science and Biology

03:35 Understanding the Human Microbiome

07:28 Researching Fungi in the Microbiome

14:01 The Balance of Candida in Gut Health

15:26 Personalized Microbiome Testing and Recommendations

18:04 Improving Microbiome Health Over Time

20:55 The Link Between Microbiome and Longevity

22:01 Biohme's Symbiont AI Discovery Platform

27:04 Innovative Products: Mycosa and Its Mechanism

31:56 Enhancing Nutrient Absorption with Mycosa

34:00 Expanding Beyond Gut Health

35:42 The Future of Microbiome Science

41:37 Innovating with Targeted Formulations

46:43 Cultivating a Culture of Innovation

52:12 Personal Health Strategies and Biohacks

54:53 Exploring the Heart-Gut Connection

Connect with Sam Schatz:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/samschatz/

https://biohmtechnologies.com/

Sam@biohmtech.com

Connect with Liesl Bernard:

liesl@kalonstaffing.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

www.leadingforwellness.com

In this episode, Liesl Bernard interviews Doug Lynch, a global executive with a three-decade experience in commercialization of clinical nutrition products, supplements, cosmetics, animal health, and proprietary actives. He’s held global executive roles and intellectual property portfolio management for proprietary ingredient companies and brands alike. He’s developed and marketed scores of consumer products over his career, is a frequent industry speaker on current and future nutrition trends, and serves as a current board member for the Organic and Natural Health Association in Washington, D.C.

Doug Lynch discusses the significance of GLP-1 supplements in weight management and overall health.

Doug explains the mechanism of GLP-1, its role in satiety, and the challenges associated with GLP-1 medications, including side effects and muscle loss. He also highlights the importance of dietary supplements as alternatives to GLP-1 medications and their potential in promoting longevity.

The conversation further delves into the relationship between GLP-1, gut health, and the emerging understanding of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 - Introduction to GLP-1 and Its Importance

03:09 - The Mechanism of GLP-1 in Weight Management

05:50 - Side Effects and Challenges of GLP-1 Medications

09:05 - Dietary Supplements as Alternatives to GLP-1

11:57 - The Role of GLP-1 in Longevity and Overall Health

19:54 - Understanding Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Postbiotics

Links:

Connect with Doug Lynch:

douglas@marketwellnutrition.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketwellnutritionceo/

https://marketwellnutrition.com/

Connect with Liesl Bernard:

liesl@kalonstaffing.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

www.leadingforwellness.com

More than 30 years ago, Steve Jennings played a pivotal role in introducing the world to the benefits of creatine supplementation at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

In this conversation, Steve will share the reason behind why he's now leading the charge with creatine 2.0, and how we can shift our perception beyond the world of gyms and performance sports, and introduce the broader health and wellbeing benefits of creatine to the mass population.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 - The Genesis of Creatine Supplementation

08:59 - Creatine's Evolution and Its Broader Applications

18:10 - Understanding Mitochondrial Health and Creatine

22:54 - The Future of Creatine: Formats and Innovations

28:05 - Understanding Creatine Stability and Usage

32:08 - Innovations in Liquid Creatine Technology

34:55 - The Future of Creatine in Mainstream Nutrition

39:39 - Challenges in Creatine Manufacturing and Supply Chain

43:39 - The Need for Onshore Manufacturing

46:52 - The Broader Impact of Creatine on Health and Longevity

Links

Connect with Steve Jennings:

steve@helloyeu.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjennings1/

https://www.instagram.com/creatineog/

Connect with Liesl Bernard:

liesl@kalonstaffing.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

www.leadingforwellness.com

Your gut does more than digest food. It shapes your cravings, energy, and even your mood. So how can you work with it instead of against it?

Liesl Bernard sits down with Sierra Simpson, founder and CEO of BrilliantBiome, to talk about the microbiome’s surprising influence on health and performance. After struggling with the effects of long-term antibiotic use, Sierra turned to science to heal herself and discovered the powerful connection between gut health and the brain. She explains how the gut-brain axis works, why enzymes and metabolites act as messengers between systems, and how small shifts in diet and lifestyle can create a big impact.

Can changing what you eat really improve mental clarity? How does the microbiome affect peak performance for athletes and high achievers? Sierra breaks it all down with strategies, from incorporating whole foods and fermented products to using mindfulness techniques that strengthen the gut-brain connection. Whether you’re looking for better digestion, more energy, or sharper focus, Liesl and Sierra’s conversation offers insight into how your microbiome holds the key.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

02:21 Discovering the Microbiome

06:30 Tips for a Healthy Microbiome

09:16 Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics

13:14 Future of Microbiome Testing in Healthcare

17:35 Addressing Sugar Cravings and Candida

19:04 Lifestyle Changes for Microbiome Health

22:28 Holistic Approach to Health

30:08 Microbiome and Autoimmune Disorders

32:44 Dietary Recommendations for Inflammation

36:36 Accessing Brilliant Biome Services

Links

Connect with Sierra Simpson:

www.brilliantbiome.com, discount code "KALON"

Connect with Liesl Bernard:

https://kalonstaffing.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

AI won’t take your job. Someone who knows how to use it will. So what does that mean for the nutraceuticals industry?

Liesl Bernard sits down with Andy Dahlen, a veteran in consumer packaged goods and dietary supplements, to talk about how AI is shaking up nutraceuticals and personalized nutrition. With experience leading brands like General Mills, Beech-Nut, and MegaFood, Andy shares how AI is speeding up ingredient research, making product development more efficient, and giving smaller brands a real shot at competing with industry giants.

Consumers want supplements backed by science. Sorting through mountains of research takes time, but AI is changing that. Companies that use AI tools can cut research time dramatically, making it easier to develop innovative, science-backed products. But will businesses embrace the technology fast enough to keep up?

Andy also challenges leaders to get hands-on with AI. Instead of waiting for their teams to figure it out, they should be modeling its use and encouraging experimentation across departments. The companies that do will be the ones driving the future of personalized nutrition. Will yours be one of them?

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Andy Dahlen’s Background in CPG and Supplements

02:03 AI in the Supplement Space

03:44 Job Impact of AI in the Industry

05:01 Tools and Efficiency in the Supplement Industry

06:40 AI’s Role in R&D and Other Areas

08:04 Recommendations for Companies to Embrace AI

12:13 AI Adoption in Different Company Sizes

15:14 Challenges in Embracing AI in the Supplement Industry

19:15 Advice for CEOs on Implementing AI

24:44 Training and Employee Involvement in AI

27:20 AI’s Impact on Job Satisfaction and Efficiency

29:10 Importance of Accurate AI Output and Data Privacy

30:00 Shifting Mindsets Towards AI Usage

31:24 Training and Skill Development for AI

32:42 Encouraging Curiosity and Innovation with AI

33:29 Leadership’s Role in AI Adoption

34:07 Closing

Links

Welcome to AI: A Human Guide to Artificial Intelligence: Shrier, David L.: 9781647827526: Amazon.com: Books

HBR Podcasts:

Why AI Isn’t Enough To Beat The Competition

The AI Skills You Should Be Building Now

Tech at Work: What GenAI Means for Companies Right Now

Connect with Liesl Bernard:

https://kalonstaffing.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm