Hi Nicole, can you tell us a little about your background and how you became interested in the natural products industry? I've been in this industry my entire life! My family had a small chain of health food stores back in Michigan and I've always been surrounded by the people and the products that define our industry. It's been incredible to watch everything evolve and the paradigm shifts. I remember back in the day that the only Gluten-free products were Ener-G vacuumed-packed bread loafs! How far we've come.
I've had the opportunity to work with many incredible companies: Nutraceutical, New Chapter, Garden of Life, and Life Extension. I've been blessed to watch incredible product launches that have truly defined and changed our industry. What is the best part about this industry is the people. Our industry is small, yet the people represented make up for it by the masses. No one ever leaves, and it's exciting to watch fellow colleagues transition and help start-up companies and stay connected. There are always friendly faces at expos and shows, and when working in different regions, you always recognize a friendly face.
You're the National Sales Manager at WishGarden. What are your duties? I wear many hats! My primary duties are connecting with our Kick-Ass Sales Force in the field. I work with them to help develop their regions/territories, assist in bridging those Key Relationships if needed, and I also do my best to help them discover their best business skills and practices. I constantly ask and push our reps; if they're feeling uncomfortable then they're exactly where they need to be. Again, I'm honored to work with so many different people and help them make a difference in their lives and their stores.
What does your typical day look like at WishGarden? It is different everyday! I might be in the field working with a badass rep, building endcaps, educating staff, doing detail at retail. Other days I might be at the office brainstorming all day with our incredible team on new marketing ideas, collaterals, or promotions. It is the greatest feeling when you work with such like-minded people and they empower you to be the best you can be. Our company culture is like no other; I feel like it's a hidden utopia and I have to pinch myself that I'm not dreaming. It's hard to believe that this is my job! Days fly by. .
Have you established any goals for this year (ones that you can share)? Make this a KICK-ASS YEAR FOR WG AND BREAK ALL OUR RECORDS!
We are witnessing a real growth in the natural products sector. What do you attribute that to? There are so many to list: product innovation, FDM converting to hybrid models, and consumer awareness. Excitement and passion are contagious, and health and wellness are at the top of everyone's conversations. I feel that a larger part of society is starting to take a more vested interest in their health and well being, and it's speaking clearly through the volume of sales.
Where do you see WishGarden at in five years? I see WG represented across the nation — being able to offer people anywhere and everywhere these incredible formulas that assist in helping them attain their peak optimal state of well being. So many people have no idea who or what WG is, and my goal is to make WG a household name and a go-to for products.
Do you have a favorite herb? I do! My favorite herb is cilantro! I love herbs that cross over from culinary to medical usage. Cilantro is my favorite herb to cook with. I love its tangy flavor and its ability to elevate the most simplistic dish. It creates a depth of flavor that gives my dishes a personality. I also love how purifying it is; it cleanses and detoxes the blood and our systems. It's great for digestive support and obviously it's delicious!
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or sell any product.
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