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Introduction:
Welcome to a captivating episode with Sarah Koszyk, the visionary behind MIJA, a California-based wellness company that's redefining health supplements. Dive deep into her journey of self-funding, product development, and building a brand from the ground up.
Sarah’s Background:
- Sarah’s passion for wellness began early, driving her to become a registered dietitian after rigorous education and training.
- Transitioned from traditional dietician roles to media, writing for prominent magazines and establishing herself as a trusted voice in nutrition.
- Elected chair of the national organization, the Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetic Practice Group, underlining her industry expertise and leadership.
The Birth of MIJA:
- Observing challenges with unregulated supplements and their potential health implications, Sarah identified a gap in the market.
- Collaborating with her business partner, Mike, they conceptualized MIJA to provide safe, third-party tested, and ethically sourced wellness products.
- The emphasis on quality, sustainability, and community-building became the brand's cornerstone.
Self-Funding & Business Challenges:
- Sarah’s journey began without a large nest egg, relying instead on her vision, grit, and determination.
- The challenges of sourcing high-quality ingredients, sustainable packaging, and balancing a tight budget.
- Adapting to unforeseen setbacks like the COVID-19 pandemic and pivoting strategies for growth.
MIJA’s Growth & Strategy:
- Launching with their flagship product, Superstar, a superfood supplement that encapsulates the brand's ethos.
- Exploring various distribution channels, from direct-to-consumer to retail partnerships in boutiques and international markets.
- Emphasizing grassroots marketing, media contributions, and building a dedicated community around the brand.
Future Aspirations & Takeaways:
- Sarah's commitment to continuous growth and innovation, with plans for expanding the product line.
A core piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Believe in your mission, stay aligned with your values, and persevere through challenges with unwavering conviction.
Thank you for joining us in this insightful conversation with Sarah Koszyk, as we unravel the story behind MIJA and the passion driving its success
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