Leading For Wellness

EP 21 - From Medicine to Mushrooms: A Journey of Transformation - Sandra Carter

Dr. Sandra Carter, M.A., MPH, Ph.D. is a pioneer in preventative medicine, sports performance, and integrative health — and a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the functional mushroom industry. After decades in public health and disease prevention, Dr. Carter founded M2 Ingredients at the age of 55, bringing scientific rigor and mission-driven innovation to a field on the cusp of mainstream awareness. 
As Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of the largest functional mushroom supplier in the Western Hemisphere, Dr. Carter built M2 Ingredients with a clear conviction: while others in the industry debated marketing semantics, she focused firmly on science, research, and measurable impact. She anticipated the noise that would inevitably follow the mushroom boom — and knew that real data and clinical research would be the most powerful differentiator. 
Under her leadership, M2 has invested heavily in scientific validation, assembling the largest team of scientists in the industry and leading research on mushroom-derived compounds, gut health, immune support, and cognitive function. This unwavering commitment to science has positioned M2 as the go-to partner for brands seeking integrity, innovation, and efficacy. 
In parallel, Dr. Carter also built a national consumer brand — now sold in Whole Foods, Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Target — helping bring the benefits of functional mushrooms to millions. Widely recognized as a category architect, she continues to lead with clarity, compassion, and a steadfast belief in the power of fungi, food, and evidence-based wellness. 
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In this conversation, Liesl Bernard interviews Sandra Carter, founder of Om Superfoods and M2 Ingredients, discussing her journey from a successful career in preventive medicine to becoming an entrepreneur in the functional mushroom industry. Sandra shares key milestones in her business, the importance of focus and discipline, and the challenges she faced, including overcoming imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the significance of mentorship, community, and data-driven research in building a successful brand. The discussion also covers the health benefits of mushrooms, the future of the industry, and Sandra's personal practices for maintaining balance and intuition.  
 
Chapters 
00:00 Founding Success: Milestones in Entrepreneurship 
02:52 Transitioning Careers: From Medicine to Entrepreneurship 
05:54 Navigating Challenges: Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 
08:49 Vision and Discipline: Keys to Business Success 
11:48 Building a Brand: The Journey of Om Superfoods 
14:50 Sales Strategy: The Hands-On Approach 
17:41 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Gaining Confidence 
20:50 Mentorship and Community: Learning from Others 
23:36 Data vs. Vision: Balancing Insights for Future Growth 
25:24 Articulating Confidence in Ideas 
26:25 The Impressive Mushroom Facility 
29:55 Health Benefits of Mushrooms 
34:12 The Future of Mushroom Products 
38:44 Cultivating Intuition and Connection 
43:20 Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning 
45:28 Finding Purpose in Life 
 
Contact Sandra Carter: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-carter-3b6b3241/ 
https://ommushrooms.com/ 
https://m2ingredients.com/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 
 

EP 20 - Unlocking the Power of Magnesium - Rafea Naffa

In this episode, Liesl Bernard interviews Rafea Naffa, PhD bioanalytical chemist, Scientific Advisor for AIDP, about the critical role of magnesium in human health.
They discuss the importance of magnesium for various bodily functions, its bioavailability, and the different forms of magnesium supplements available. Rafea emphasizes the need for daily magnesium intake, the symptoms of deficiency, and the impact of magnesium on brain health and hormonal balance.
The conversation also touches on recent research and clinical studies that highlight the benefits of magnesium supplementation, particularly in improving cognitive performance and sleep quality. 
 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Magnesium and Its Importance 
02:00 The Role of Magnesium in the Body 
05:58 Bioavailability and Sources of Magnesium 
10:47 Understanding Magnesium Forms and Their Functions 
13:01 Magnesium's Impact on Brain Health 
16:00 Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency 
21:41 Magnesium and Hormonal Balance 
25:40 Research and Clinical Studies on Magnesium 
29:40 Daily Magnesium Intake and Recommendations 
38:26 Personal Insights and Recommendations on Magnesium 
 
Contact Rafea Naffa: 
https://aidp.com/
rafea@aidp.com 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

EP 19 - Transforming Wellness and the Future of Nutrition and Mental Health - Tom Aarts

In this conversation, Liesl Bernard interviews Tom Aarts, a leading authority in the global wellness industry. Tom shares his journey in the nutrition sector, his passion for mental health, and his proud accomplishments, including the founding of the Nutrition Business Journal and the NBJ Summit. He discusses the importance of personalized nutrition, the impact of AI, and the growing trend of biohacking. Tom also reflects on the political landscape's influence on the wellness industry and shares insights on successful strategies for companies. He emphasizes the significance of mindset and spirituality in health and concludes with his aspirations for a legacy that contributes to solving major health issues like Alzheimer's. 
 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Tom Aarts and His Journey 
02:59 The Importance of Nutrition and Mental Health 
06:05 Proud Accomplishments in the Wellness Industry 
08:48 Navigating Mergers and Acquisitions in Wellness 
12:09 The Future of Personalized Nutrition and AI 
14:59 Biohacking and Wellness Trends 
17:53 Political Landscape and Its Impact on Wellness 
20:40 Keys to Success in the Wellness Industry 
23:49 Personal Health Journey and Longevity Practices 
27:03 Mindset, Meditation, and Mental Health 
29:52 Legacy and Future Aspirations 
 
Contact Tom Aarts: 
https://www.nbjsummit.com/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 

EP 18 - From Adversity to Empowerment: Lessons in Entrepreneurship - Lisa Odenweller

Lisa Odenweller is a pioneering wellness entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Kroma Wellness, a modern functional nutrition brand dedicated to simplifying healthy living for busy, high-performing lifestyles. With over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry, Lisa has committed her career to making premium, science-backed nutrition accessible, delicious, and effortless.
Before launching Kroma, Lisa founded Beaming, one of Southern California’s most influential wellness café brands, renowned for its clean nutrition and culinary creativity. After successfully scaling Beaming into a multi-location business and exiting in 2018, she turned her focus to addressing a deeper problem: the overwhelming, flavorless, and unsustainable nature of many wellness routines. With Kroma, she introduced a first-of-its-kind 5-Day Whole Body Reset and a range of instant, shelf-stable, adaptogen-rich products that enable people to nourish themselves with joy, ease, and purpose—anytime, anywhere. Lisa’s ability to merge functional nutrition with indulgent flavor and modern lifestyle design has established her as a category innovator and a leading voice in the next era of wellness.
Beyond Kroma, Lisa is a mom of 3 grown kids, a passionate mentor to female founders, a frequent speaker on health and entrepreneurship, and a tireless advocate for making wellness more intuitive, empowering, and enjoyable 
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In this episode of the Leading for Wellness podcast, Liesl Bernard interviews Lisa Odenweller, founder of Kroma Wellness and Beaming, discussing her journey in the wellness industry, the challenges she faced, and the lessons learned from adversity. Lisa shares insights on self-worth, the importance of energy in business, and her innovative approach to nutrition with Kroma. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community support, personal growth, and the unique challenges female entrepreneurs face in fundraising. Lisa also highlights her daily rituals for maintaining positivity and energy. 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Wellness and Entrepreneurship 
03:06 The Journey of Beaming: A Superfood Cafe 
05:56 Lessons from Adversity: Overcoming Challenges 
08:51 Self-Reflection and Healing: The Path to Growth 
11:51 Building Self-Worth and Confidence 
14:54 The Importance of Energy in Business 
17:38 Fundraising Insights for Female Entrepreneurs 
20:54 Creating a Nutrition System: The Chroma Brand 
23:30 Daily Rituals for Energy and Positivity 
26:34 The Power of Community and Support 
29:22 Innovations and Future Vision for Chroma 
32:36 Conclusion and Special Offers 
Contact Lisa Odenweller: 
https://kromawellness.com/ 
https://www.instagram.com/kromawellness/ 
Contact Liesl Bernard: 
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/  
www.leadingforwellness.com 
 

EP 17 - The Power of Branding and Intention in the Natural Foods Industry - Ari Raz

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 
 

EP 16 - From Corporate to Co-Founder of a Unique Wellness Beverage Brand - Susan Buckwalter Hartman

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 

EP 15 - From Personal Shopper to Vegan CEO Transforming Plant-Based Eating – Madelyn Hadley

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 
 
 

EP 14: Data Driven and Fungi Focused – The Future of Microbiome Science - Sam Schatz

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 

EP13: GLP-1 - The Key to Weight Management and Optimal Health – Doug Lynch

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 
 

EP12: Taking Creatine to the Next Level - Steve Jennings

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