Also I wanted to ask you. Why did you start Pulp Pantry which is now Trashy chips?
I woke up to a realization - that there was a massive, nutritiously-rich waste stream of organic fruit and vegetables in Los Angeles that no one had found a better solution for.
But why did I start Pulp Pantry? I went on the John Muir Trail with the idea for Pulp Pantry in mind, but I was one foot in one foot out. Fear of failure was the only thing preventing me from diving headfirst, putting my all into building this company. It wasn't a good reason to quit at all.
And what are a few lessons you have learned from being a small business owner?
Don't downplay your dream, vision, ideas. Share the pie in the sky, share your passion and enthusiasm - your energy is transferable. It's the only way you'll get people to invest in building this baby with you. Carve out time for reflection. Journal extensively along your journey. Because it's going to be a long one. Full of twists and turns. And there's nothing sweeter than reveling in your experiences and learning from them, watching as your mind expands and your perspective opens. Lose the ego. Everything becomes easier.
What are some of the unforeseen obstacles and challenges you have had to overcome in operating your own business? Both personally and professionally.
Personally, learning how to trust. I'm still learning. Giving up control is giving in to trust, it's a beautiful thing. Learning how to listen to my body and inner wisdom, to respect myself and take time to do the things that recharge the batteries and keep me connected to my community.
Professionally, in the beginning, it was that inevitable realization that no one has all of the answers. That building a business is an art and should be a creative process, done with integrity, unique to the people building it. There are a million ways to build a business, and there are many right ways.
How to listen, actively. Listen to customers, listen to mentors, listen to the world. When you listen you might hear something that unlocks a new door.
What are some of the things you do to maintain a work/life balance?
Right now, my work is my life. There is no balance in the traditional sense, no set time when work "starts" or "stops," yet I feel in balance. I work alongside colorful, inspiring, aligned people who make work play and play work. I'm a thread in an incredible, growing network of inspiring women who are leading the movement towards a more conscious and well society, and that's something to feel inspired about.
Today we introduce you to Kaitlin Mogentale the genius behind @trasychips. Kaitlin is using business to bring good into the world and is spreading lots of happiness along the way.
What do you usually eat for breakfast?
I'm a bit obsessive now about making tonics. Made to fulfill a function, they're intentional, ritualistic and healing. I've been drinking this one creation in place of coffee and it keeps me satiated through most of the morning. It energizes me and also helps to buffer stress. 1 heaping tbsp coconut oil, turmeric, ginger, maca, ashwagandha, shilajit, black pepper, holy basil and a good 2 tbsp cacao. Add a little local honey or a few drops of stevia and it's just a treat.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting their own business?
Simplify, simplify, simplify. Strategize. Before you begin, before you overcomplicate things, distill why you're in it, what the value is, and what the end goal (success) looks like for YOU. With those pieces in mind, pound the pavement and meet with people who know about getting where you want to go, who have gone down that road or who are just a bit further along than you. Most will be happy to help so long as they can sense that you're sincere. Last, just do it. Put it out there. Don't be shy, don't be afraid. This will be fun.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Eat Food, Not Too Much. Mostly Plants. (Michael Pollan). Please don't think that only applies to food 😜
What book should I read next?
My eyes are often occupied. I'm all for podcasts and audiobooks when my ears are free. Podcasts have taught me how to be a better listener, noticing what separates a good host from a bad host. Esther Perel is really a vision. A dream woman. She's a psychotherapist focused on relationships, with others and ourselves. I think we'd all do well to give a listen.
What has been your best investment?
Of time, blood, sweat, tears.... building Pulp Pantry. Worth every drop.
What do you think is often the difference between people who are good at what they do and people who are great at what they do?
People who are great exist outside of the box. They push the envelope. They make magic happen. They transfer energy and passion in a way that transforms others around them. People who are good at what they do, maybe they're missing that spark. After all, what separates the good from the great could just be the perception of the people watching. So much of what we do, creatively, in business, its success is dependent on forces (ahem, people) beyond ourselves. One individual can change the world, but they can't do it without people changing too. How well are you able to control those forces? Greatness leaves an impression.
What is one talent or strength of yours, which has been critical to your success?
Empathy. I'm easily inspired by the world and by people. I feel. I get contact high.
Window seat or aisle?
Window. Always. Ideally, I'll be landing when the sun is setting.
What would you like for your next birthday?
I'm asking my people for their time, and presence. To exist in the moment with me (is that not the biggest ask of all?).
What is love?
Nourishment at its best. And lucky for us, its an infinite resource.