Leading For Wellness

Elina Sofia Wang, CEO and founder of ESW Beauty, shares her journey from personal health struggles to building a successful, community-focused skincare brand. Discover her strategies for growth, overcoming obstacles, and maintaining mental wellness as an entrepreneur. 
Chapters 
00:00 The Journey Begins: From Struggles to Success 
03:06 Building a Brand: The Vision and Strategy 
06:01 Overcoming Obstacles: Lessons Learned Along the Way 
08:57 The Evolution of Leadership: From Founder to CEO 
11:57 Community and Connection: The Heart of ESW Beauty 
14:39 Mental Wellness: The Key to Entrepreneurial Success 
17:53 Future Aspirations: What's Next for ESW Beauty 
Contact Elina Sofia Wang 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elina-sofia-wang-ab78409a/ 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/eswbeauty/ 
https://eswbeauty.com/ 
https://www.instagram.com/esw.beauty 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 
 

Paul Frantellizzi is a passionate and motivational leader with results-oriented entrepreneurial vision and a unique ability to bring great value to every relationship and business opportunity. A former native of NYC, Paul has a 40+ year history and experience with start-ups, executive management, the organic food industry, two-term Mayor, Police Commissioner, filmmaker, and a national sales and marketing director for Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. He currently leads the team@ Joyful Humans & Blue Toad® developing microdose delivery formats, MGBA support nutrient-rich supplements, protein bars, tinctures, powders, drinks, chocolate, etc., all utilizing Nootropics, Ayurvedic Botanicals, Hemp/ Cannabis/ Mushroom products.  
Prior to creating Joyful & the Toad, Paul was the Chief Innovation Officer for Stanley Brothers Cannabis (founders of Charlotte's Web), he founded the country's premiere co-manufacturer of functional-foods, GOOD SUPERFOODS® (winner of NUTRACON & SSW Editors Choice) and Superfood Innovation Lab® where he innovated for iconic clients such as; USANA, Melaleuca, NuSkin, NewWays, Young Living, Scentsy, Modere, Dr. Mercola, Onnit Nutrition, Walmart, Garden of Life, Kroger, Labrada Nutrition, and many more. Paul also founded the country’s first organic vending distribution company (NextGen Vending®), and developed that industry’s first PLA-based biodegradable water bottle (Earthpure Organics®).  
His beautiful family, core values, sense of community, and a powerful work ethic inspire Paul to be his best everyday 
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In this episode, Paul Frantellizzi shares his personal journey through the testosterone crisis affecting men, explores the science behind hormone health, and offers practical advice on lifestyle, diet, and supplements to optimize testosterone levels and overall well-being. 
Chapters 
00:00 Understanding the Testosterone Crisis 
02:59 The Symptoms of Andropause 
05:50 The Role of Testosterone in Men's Health 
08:47 The Importance of Comprehensive Hormone Testing 
11:44 The Endocannabinoid System and Hormonal Balance 
14:56 Total Testosterone vs. Free Testosterone 
17:37 Cultural Influences on Men's Testosterone Levels 
20:37 Raising Boys to Embrace Masculinity 
27:29 The Power of Kindness and Unconditional Love 
28:18 Lifestyle Changes for Natural Testosterone Support 
29:30 Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options 
31:12 The Importance of Resistance Training and Sleep 
33:14 Cortisol Management and Sunlight Exposure 
34:40 Dietary Choices for Hormonal Health 
36:37 The Role of Fermented Foods and Gut Health 
37:28 Understanding Visceral Fat and Its Impact 
38:59 Intermittent Fasting and Weight Management 
39:51 Key Supplements for Testosterone Enhancement 
41:15 Blood Panels and Hormonal Health 
46:14 Taking Control of Long-Term Health 
 
Contact Paul Frantellizzi: 
https://www.joyfulhumans.com/ 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulfrantellizzi/ 
https://www.instagram.com/joyful.humans/ 
https://leadingforwellness.com/blog/guide-to-andropause
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

In this insightful interview, Tim Adams shares his expertise on performance, mindset, and holistic self-awareness. Discover how aligning mind, body, spirit, and emotions can unlock peak performance and authentic leadership. 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Performance and Mindset 
02:26 The Foundation of Coaching: Mind, Body, and Spirit 
07:57 Lessons from the Sports Field: Precision and Performance 
12:42 The Importance of Mindset in Achieving Success 
17:16 Finding Purpose: Aligning with Your Values 
21:23 Navigating the Hustle: Understanding Rhythm and Recovery 
27:38 Connecting with Your Body and Mind 
28:10 Understanding Your Energy Rhythms 
31:53 The Importance of Identity in Leadership 
34:20 Articulating Vision and Purpose 
39:08 Heart-Brain Coherence in Leadership 
44:58 The Balance of Giving and Receiving in Leadership 
 
Tim Adams 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachadams/ 
https://www.coachtimadams.com/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

Élan M. Sudberg is CEO of Alkemist Labs, a passionately committed contract testing laboratory specializing in plant and fungal authentication and quantitative analytical services to the food & beverage, nutraceutical, companion animal and psychedelic industries. He holds a degree in chemistry from California State University Long Beach, and has authored numerous articles on phytochemistry and analytical techniques for the natural products industry. Elan is on the AHPA board, was founding chair of the Cannabis Committee, and now chairs the Psychedelic Plants & Fungi Committee. Other boards he serves on include the United Natural Products Association (UNPA) Executive Advisory Committee. He is a Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry Advisor to the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia. The industry has honored Elan and his company in 2019 with NutraIngredients-USA NutraChampion award for advocacy of best testing practices, and the Nutrition Business Journal (NBJ) award for Efforts on Behalf of Industry in 2022. 
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Élan M. Sudberg shares his 30-year journey in botanical testing, the importance of quality control, and how transparency can revolutionize the industry. Discover insights on testing methods, building a company culture, and enhancing consumer confidence in natural products. 
Chapters 
00:00 Roots of Passion: A Natural Upbringing 
03:08 The Birth of Alkemist Labs: From Garage to Industry Leader 
05:55 Navigating Challenges: The David vs. Goliath of Labs 
09:06 Expertise and Innovation: What Sets Alkemist Labs Apart 
11:55 Understanding Testing: Identity, Potency, and Contamination 
14:55 Building Consumer Confidence: The Importance of Transparency 
17:47 Outcomes Assured: Marketing Quality in the Industry 
22:02 Testing and Quality Assurance in the Industry 
25:21 Company Culture and Leadership Values 
31:43 The Importance of Work-Life Balance 
32:00 Passion for Quality and Integrity 
37:44 Health, Wellness, and Personal Life 
38:24 The Need for Transparency in the Industry 
 
Élan Sudberg:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elan-sudberg-62b7774/ 
https://www.alkemist.com/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

Heather Howell shares her inspiring journey from leading global innovation at Jack Daniels to becoming CEO of Greater Than, a brand dedicated to women's hydration and wellness. Discover how she identified a white space in the beverage market, reformulated products to meet women's needs, and built a brand rooted in empowerment, authenticity, and community. 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Greater Than and Heather's Journey 
02:51 The Evolution of Greater Than: A Focus on Women's Wellness 
06:00 Reformulating for Women: Ingredients and Health Benefits 
08:49 Branding and the Goddess Concept 
12:05 Challenges in the Beverage Market: Getting on Shelves 
14:59 The Vision for Greater Than: Future Innovations 
24:42 Empowering Women Through Community Engagement 
26:24 Overcoming Challenges as an Entrepreneur 
30:22 The Importance of Female Representation in Business 
33:27 Balancing Work and Family Life 
39:03 Nourishing the Mind and Body 
43:37 Advice for Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs 
 
Contact Heather Howell:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-howell-579180118/ 
https://www.drinkgt.com/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

Joel Kocher shares his remarkable journey from tech industry leadership to pioneering in the nutraceutical space with a focus on nitric oxide and its impact on human health. Discover how science, purpose, and strategic vision are transforming health and wellness. 
Chapters 
00:00 From Tech to Nutraceuticals: A Journey of Purpose 
02:57 The Miracle Molecule: Understanding Nitric Oxide 
05:55 The Science Behind Human Products 
09:02 Building Trust in the Nutraceutical Industry 
11:50 Disrupting the Market: The Role of Education 
14:45 The Future of Healthcare and Nutrition 
17:47 Navigating the Challenges of the Nutraceutical Industry 
20:55 The Path Forward: Sustainability and Reform 
31:23 The Role of AI in Trust and Industry Sustainability 
33:21 Vision and Purpose in Entrepreneurship 
35:20 Hiring for Culture Fit and Revolutionary Mindsets 
41:11 Articulating Vision and Corporate Objectives 
43:36 Transitioning from Tech to Entrepreneurship 
51:47 The Importance of Talent in Scaling Businesses 
52:33 Working with a Spouse in Business 
54:24 Health, Nutrition, and Personal Well-being 
 
Joel Kocher 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jkocher/ 
https://humann.com/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

Rajat Mittal Shah is the Co-founder of Nutriventia, a science-backed nutraceutical ingredients company, a patented inventor, published researcher, and APAC Regional Co-Chair of Women in Nutraceuticals, and today, a candidate for the WIN Global Board of Directors. She brings something rare to this industry: a technology and systems mindset layered on top of deep pharma and nutraceutical experience, and a belief that science is the only durable currency in wellness. 
About Nutriventia 
Headquartered in Mumbai, India, Nutriventia Limited is a leading innovator in premium nutraceutical ingredients, combining science and nature to deliver effective health solutions. With nearly four decades of experience and a pioneering role in Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS), Nutriventia develops high-performance, clinically validated ingredients that address bioavailability, stability, and efficacy. Its advanced delivery platforms enhance consumer convenience, compliance, and outcomes. Trusted by nutraceutical brands worldwide, Nutriventia continues to set benchmarks in creating safe, effective, and consumer-friendly health solutions.  
https://www.nutriventia.com 
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In this insightful interview, Rajat Mittal shares her journey from India to the US, her entrepreneurial ventures in nutraceuticals, and her vision for the industry's future, emphasizing evidence-based solutions, technology, and diversity in leadership. 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Rashad Mattel and Nutraceuticals 
01:46 Rajat's Journey: From Education to Entrepreneurship 
04:09 Personal Motivation Behind Nutraceuticals 
06:56 The Future of the Nutraceutical Industry 
10:33 Women in Nutraceuticals: The Importance of Diversity 
15:19 Challenges and Opportunities in the APAC Region 
19:38 Cultural Nuances in Business: The McDonald's Example 
23:06 Framework for Entering the APAC Market 
26:04 The Role of AI in the Future of Nutraceuticals 
31:33 Vision for Women in Nutraceuticals Board 
34:37 Conclusion and Call to Action 
 
 
Rajat Mittal Shah 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajatmittal/ 
https://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/exclusives/dont-just-move-east-why-global-programs-miss-the-mark-when-designed-in-the-west-and-how-apac-teams-can-fix-them/ 
https://www.nutriventia.com/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 
 

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Mark Tager discusses his journey from family medicine to the field of aesthetics, emphasizing the merging of wellness and beauty. He explores the importance of nutrition, exercise, and hormonal balance in maintaining skin health, while also addressing the impact of sugar and the science behind collagen treatments. Dr. Tager advocates for a comprehensive approach to wellness clinics that prioritize personalized care and preventive measures, highlighting the role of epigenetics and mindfulness in achieving overall health and beauty. 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Integrative Aesthetics 
03:04 The Merging of Aesthetics and Wellness 
06:00 The Role of Exercise and Nutrition 
08:57 Understanding Hormones and Skin Health 
11:45 The Impact of Sugar on Skin 
14:56 The Journey of Collagen Health 
17:51 Building a Comprehensive Clinic 
21:05 The Importance of Testing and Personalization 
24:00 The Role of Lifestyle in Longevity 
26:54 The Future of Healthcare and Patient Relationships 
29:56 The Science of Epigenetics and Presence 
Contact Mark Tager 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktager/ 
Contact@drtager.com 
https://www.amazon.com/Integrative-Aesthetics-Roadmap-Practice-Success/dp/0971625069 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

Jeremy Bartos, Ph.D., is the Chief Science Officer at INW, a contract manufacturing conglomerate specializing in dry dosage forms, liquids, softgels, and functional bars. He has over 18 years of experience working in the dietary supplements industry in a variety of R&D, product development, innovation, business development and sales roles. He specializes in probiotics, having formulated probiotic dietary supplements that have generated close to $1 Billion in sales to date and is an elected member of the International Probiotics Association’s Board of Directors and Executive Advisory Committee Member for the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA). In his current role, he utilizes his knowledge of the scientific and clinical benefits of nutraceutical ingredients to create new finished product solutions for the dietary supplement, food, beverage and personal care industries, specializing in probiotic, sports nutrition, and health condition-specific innovative solutions. 
His accolades include authoring peer-reviewed publications, co-inventing numerous natural products patents and launching both branded proprietary ingredients and successful finished products tailored for various dietary supplement markets. 
Dr. Bartos received his B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Rochester and his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Roswell Park Cancer Institute, a division of the State University of New York at Buffalo. 
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In this conversation, Liesl interviews Jeremy Bartos, PhD, the Chief Science Officer of INW, about his unique journey from the pharmaceutical industry to the nutraceutical space. Jeremy shares insights on the differences between these fields, the importance of product development, and the role of science in marketing nutraceuticals. He discusses the impact of AI on consumer behavior, the integration of traditional medicine with modern science, and emerging trends in the nutraceutical industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for real science behind products and the importance of education in consumer health practices. 
Chapters 
00:00 Journey from Pharmaceuticals to Nutraceuticals 
05:08 The Role of Product Development in Nutraceuticals 
10:21 Understanding R&D and Product Development 
15:14 The Importance of Science in Marketing Claims 
18:40 Navigating Consumer Behavior in the Digital Age 
20:33 The Impact of AI on Product Development 
24:10 Integrating Traditional Medicine into Modern Formulations 
29:40 Trends in the Nutraceutical Industry 
37:45 Personal Health Practices and Industry Insights 
 
Contact Jeremy Bartos: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremybartos/ 
jbartos@inwmfg.com 
https://www.inwmfg.com/
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

In this conversation, Liesl interviews Duffy MacKay, Senior Vice President of Dietary Supplements for the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA).
Duffy shares his extensive background in the supplement industry, discussing the evolution of dietary supplements, the role of CHPA in ensuring quality and access to self-care products, and the challenges faced by the industry today.  
He emphasizes the importance of education for consumers, the need for stricter regulations, and the future focus on integrating dietary supplements into overall wellness. Duffy also shares his personal health practices and the significance of community in navigating the industry. 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Duffy MacKay and His Journey 
03:08 The Role of CHPA in Dietary Supplements 
06:11 Consumer Access and Product Quality Initiatives 
08:55 Challenges Facing the Dietary Supplement Industry 
11:55 The Impact of Social Media on Consumer Trust 
15:05 Future Focus of CHPA and Regulatory Changes 
18:06 Navigating the Dietary Supplement Landscape 
20:48 Personal Health Practices of Duffy MacKay 
23:53 Conclusion and Future Events 
Contact Duffy MacKay: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/duffy-mackay-6ab19b12/ 
Dmackay@chpa.org 
https://www.chpa.org/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com