episode 0033- making plant-based protein accessible to all with koia co-founder maya french

Maya and her co-founder Dustin set out to make the perfect protein beverage in Koia. But it wasn't easy, and there were many road blocks. Tune in to hear the challenges they faced, and how they overcame them to get on the shelf at Starbucks, and ultimately exit the business.

We also dive into the details of Maya's new company: HAPPY POP, a mood-boosting beverage company. Maya gives us insights into launching a second company, whether it was easier or harder than launching the first, how they market the product, how business is going, and plans for the future.

Show Highlights:
1- How did Koia start? Where did you get the idea? (6:20)
2- We discuss how this was always a business venture and never just a hobby, and how they were able to get the quantities they needed while making this at home. (12:10)
3- Maya discusses the process of learning how to make their product shelf-stable. (15:30)
4- How did you go about getting your drinks packaged, and navigating other business elements that come with producing a beverage for mass consumption? (19:00)
5- Maya reveals her favorite Koia flavor. (22:45)
6- How Koia ended up on the shelves at Starbucks. (23:50)
7- We discuss Maya’s exit from Koia and the transition to HAPPY POP. (25:00)
8- What are adaptogens, and how do they play a role in HAPPY POP? (29:30)
9- How easy or challenging was the second business after having already built the first? (31:35)
10- What was the initial feedback from customers who purchased HAPPY POP? (35:00)
11- How much were you able to leverage prior relationships to get HAPPY POP into retail stores? (38:00)
12- What advice would you give to the entrepreneur considering an exit strategy? (42:10)
13- How is business going for HAPPY POP today? (45:30)
14- Where can we find more of you, and where can we purchase HAPPY POP? (46:45)
15- Listener question: What is your advice for someone with an idea for a beverage but is intimidated by entering such a competitive space? (47:50)

Books Mentioned:
Who Not How by Dan Sullivan

Visit the Koia Amazon Store!

Follow us on Instagram: @witnessbusiness
Follow Maya on Instagram: @mayajfrench

Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and make a purchase. This is no additional cost to you; it just helps us be able to run the best show possible. Thank you for your support!