A Conversation with Lauren Haynes, Founder and CEO of Wooden Spoon Herbs

In this episode, Daniella sits down IRL with Lauren Haynes, Founder and CEO of Wooden Spoon Herbs. A trained herbalist and 3rd generation entrepreneur, Lauren shares her entrepreneurial journey starting with the genesis of her brand at a farmers market in 2014. She recounts her early experiments with herbal products and how she expanded from local sales to a national presence, recently securing a significant distribution deal with Whole Foods. Lauren discusses how she has evolved and grown as a leader alongside her business, emphasizing the support, resources, and mentorship that have been critical to her success. She highlights the challenges and opportunities of building a successful herbal supplement brand, including the need for a clear vision, focusing on products that truly matter to consumers, and connecting to a deeper 'why' beyond just making money. EPISODE KEY MOMENTS Wooden Spoon Herb early days Experimenting with products and gathering consumer feedback Brand growth and distribution partnership with Whole Foods Product development and refinement Making herbal products accessible Fundraising for a natural products business Scaling a brand Where to connect with Lauren on the internet: Wooden Spoon Herbs website - Find them at a Whole Foods near you via this store locator Wooden Spoon Herbs Instagram Lauren Haynes PLANTAS POD CREDITS: Host: ⁠⁠Daniella Allam⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠Jacqueline Smith⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Plantas Strategy website⁠⁠ For episode transcripts, go to the Plantas Pod website ⁠⁠here If you have any feedback or questions about the podcast, email ⁠[email protected]