From Teen Activist to CBD Entrepreneur | Jessica Assaf | Co-Founder of Prima

Jessica Assaf’s activism began at age 13 when she joined a local cancer study and discovered how many beauty and personal care products contained harmful ingredients. By 15, she was testifying in California for cosmetic safety reform. That passion for health, transparency, and safer consumer products shaped her entire career. Today, Jessica is the co-founder and Chief Education Officer of Prima, a science-backed hemp CBD wellness brand she launched with Christopher Gavigan and Laurel Angelica Myers. She shares how she went from nonprofit advocacy to Harvard Business School, why she chose entrepreneurship as a vehicle for change, and what it takes to build a brand in an emerging category. Jessica talks about the science and stigma around CBD, the importance of business compatibility, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, purpose, and resilience. Her story is proof that curiosity and persistence can turn an early cause into a lifelong mission. Chapters 00:00 Meet Jessica Assaf 03:20 How a Local Cancer Study Sparked Her Activism 06:15 Testifying for Cosmetic Safety Reform at 15 10:40 From Nonprofit Advocacy to Harvard Business School 14:50 Why She Chose Entrepreneurship for Impact 18:30 Building Prima with Christopher Gavigan and Laurel Angelica Myers 22:10 Breaking Stigma and Building Trust Around CBD 27:40 Science-Backed Wellness and Product Transparency 31:00 What True Compatibility in Business Partnerships Looks Like 35:20 Challenges of Launching in an Emerging Industry 39:00 Lessons on Leadership and Resilience 43:10 The Future of CBD Wellness 47:00 Advice for Turning Passion Into a Career The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices