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Mike Fata

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The Story of a Brand Show
The Story of a Brand ShowMike Fata - From Personal Health to a $419M ExitIn this episode of The Story of a Brand Show, my co-host Rose Hamilton, CEO of Compass Rose Ventures, sits down with Mike Fata, Founder and past Chairman & CEO of Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods.  Mike's story is one of personal transformation fueling a movement. What began with his own health journey, losing weight, regaining strength, and discovering hemp seeds, evolved into co-founding a company that pioneered an entire food category and scaled it all the way to a $419 million strategic exit. Mike shares how belief, discipline, and governance shaped his entrepreneurial path. From f...
2025-10-2240 minMitlin Money Mindset
Mitlin Money MindsetBuilding a Business Legacy with Mike FataFrom personal transformation to entrepreneurial triumph, Mike Fata's story showcases resilience, vision, and purpose-driven leadership. In this episode of Mitlin Money Mindset®, Larry Sprung speaks with Mike Fata, founder of Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods. They discuss Mike's inspiring journey from overcoming personal health challenges to creating a thriving business in the health food industry. Mike shares his philosophy on maintaining balance, the lessons learned from his entrepreneurial path, and the importance of mentorship in fostering success. Mike discusses: Overcoming personal health challenges and using those experiences to inspire business ventures Founding Manitoba H...
2025-02-1938 minThe Deep Wealth Podcast - Unlock Your Deep Wealth—In Business and Life
The Deep Wealth Podcast - Unlock Your Deep Wealth—In Business and LifeMultiple 9-Figure Exit Entrepreneur Mike Fata On The Secrets To His Success (#296)Send us a text“Don’t leave any loose ends with anyone or any relationship in life.” - Mike FataThe Deep Wealth podcast hosted Mike Fata, a successful entrepreneur, who shared his journey to success and offered advice to listeners. Fata emphasized the importance of discipline, making small changes, and aligning personal passions with work to achieve both personal and business success. He also discussed strategies for building a world-class business, including building a team and culture around quality and world-class standards. Fata shared his experience of raising institutional capital to grow his co...
2024-01-0347 minThe Daily Helping
The Daily Helping340. Transforming Health and Entrepreneurship with Mike FataMike Fata's story is one of transformation, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Once a high school dropout who weighed 300 pounds, Fata turned his life around by embracing health and fitness. His journey led him to co-found a successful company that pioneered the introduction of hemp foods to the market. Fata's entrepreneurial ventures stem from his deep passion for natural, healthy foods, a passion that resonates throughout his professional endeavors.Fata's transformation was not just physical but also mental and professional. Growing up in a challenging environment, he realized at the age of 18 that a change was necessary for...
2023-12-1830 minThe Daily Helping
The Daily Helping340. Transforming Health and Entrepreneurship with Mike FataMike Fata's story is one of transformation, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Once a high school dropout who weighed 300 pounds, Fata turned his life around by embracing health and fitness. His journey led him to co-found a successful company that pioneered the introduction of hemp foods to the market. Fata's entrepreneurial ventures stem from his deep passion for natural, healthy foods, a passion that resonates throughout his professional endeavors.Fata's transformation was not just physical but also mental and professional. Growing up in a challenging environment, he realized at the age of 18 that a change was necessary for...
2023-12-1830 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorTara Bosch: Founder of SmartSweetsGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Tara Bosh, founder of SmartSweets on a mission to “kick sugar, keep candy”.  Tara founded SmartSweets in 2016 after realizing the de...
2023-07-1345 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorSeth Goldman: Chief Change Agent at Eat the ChangeGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Seth Goldman. Seth is the Chief Change Agent at Eat the Change, Co-Founder at PLNT Burger, Chair of the Board at B...
2023-07-0635 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorLily Harper: 9 year old Founder of Lily Lou’s AromasGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by the youngest guest on Founder to Mentor, Lily Harper. At just 9 years old, Lily is the founder of her candle company, L...
2023-06-2916 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorDavid Karr: Co-Founder of Guayaki Yerba MateGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by David Karr. Co-Founder of Guayaki Yerba Mate.  David and four other friends decided to launch a company that would br...
2023-06-2243 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorSean Kelly: Chairman at Caroo and General Partner of The Family Fund & Founder CommunityGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Sean Kelly, Chairman at Caroo and General Partner of The Family Fund & Founder Community.  Sean has co-founded three eight fi...
2023-06-0847 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAnnette Verschuren: CEO at NRStor Inc.Get your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! accelerated the commercialization of energy storage technologies through planning and development of energy storage parks around the world.
2023-06-0141 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorJosh Wand: Founder and CEO of ForceBrandsGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Josh Wand, Founder and CEO of ForceBrands. Josh has always been passionate about h...
2023-05-2539 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorShane Heath: Co-founder and CEO at MUD/WTRGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Shane Heath, co-founder and CEO of MUD/WTR. Like most people, Shane fell in love with coffee and was i...
2023-05-1848 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorRonak Shah: CEO & Co-Founder at ObviGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Ronak Shah, the CEO and co-founder of Obvi.  Obvi is a women’s health and wellness brand with collagen rich...
2023-05-1141 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorDionne Laslo-Baker: Founder & CEO DeeBee’s OrganicsGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Dionne Laslo-Baker. Dionne is the founder and CEO of DeeBee’s Organics.  As a Medical Scientist, Dionne has always been...
2023-05-0444 minLegacy Leaders
Legacy LeadersFrom Humble Beginnings to Unstoppable Entrepreneur featuring Mike FataMike Fata is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker who has dedicated over 25 years of his life to studying and practicing natural health. Co-founding Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods in 1998, he helped guide the strategic sale of the company to Tilray for $419 million in 2019. Since then, Mike has celebrated and supported other business ventures as an entrepreneur, investor, advisor, and mentor. He is the Chief Executive Officer of Fata & Associates, the host of Founder to Mentor podcast, a best-selling author of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur, and a 9 Figure Growth Coach. As a certified holistic health coach, Mike...
2023-05-0318 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorGail Becker: Founder of CAULIPOWERGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Gail Becker. Gail is the Founder of CAULIPOWER, one of  the most disruptive companies in the better-for-you frozen food space.  A...
2023-04-2740 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorJosh Simair: Co-founder of Pivot SubscriptionsGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Josh Simair. Josh has co-founded SkipTheDishes and his latest company, Pivot Subscriptions.  Pivot Subscriptions is a “circular approach to furn...
2023-04-2047 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorBob Crane: Canbrands Specialty FoodsGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Bob Crane. Bob is the Owner and President of N2 Ingredients and the CEO of Canbrands Specialty Foods.  Throughout th...
2023-04-1337 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorRyan Benn: CEO of Alive Publishing Group Inc. - Live from CHFAGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is coming live from the floor at CHFA. the Canadian Health Food Association, with Ryan Benn from Alive Publishing Group.  Mike and Ry...
2023-04-0652 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorChris Meade: Co-Founder of CROSSNETGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Chris Meade, Co-Founder of CROSSNET, the world’s first four-way volleyball game. After going to film school and working sal...
2023-03-3037 minThe Self-Employed Life
The Self-Employed LifeMike Fata – Growth: Making Every Day the Best Day EverWhat does it really take to live an unconventional life - the life that we live as self-employed business owners?  We're going to explore that today with our guest, Mike Fata. Mike shares his inspiring journey of overcoming adversity and achieving success while prioritizing his mental and physical health. During our conversation, Mike delves into the topic of self-doubt and the difference between Impostor Syndrome and general self-doubts. He explains how self-doubt can hold us back and prevent us from achieving our full potential. Finally, we touch on the importance of being present and fully engaged in the moment, w...
2023-03-2938 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorJames Boettcher: CEO of Righteous GelatoGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by James Boettcher - Chief Empowerment Officer and “Custodian of Culture” at Righteous Gelato. In 2009 with $1,800 to his name, James acqui...
2023-03-2341 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAnouck Gotlib: CEO of Belgian BoysGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Anouck Gotlib, CEO of Belgian Boys. Both from Belgium, Anouck and her husband started Beligan Boys to cure their n...
2023-03-1639 minConsumer VC: Venture Capital I B2C Startups I Commerce | Early-Stage Investing I Brands | Technology
Consumer VC: Venture Capital I B2C Startups I Commerce | Early-Stage Investing I Brands | TechnologyMike Fata (Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods) - How He Founded a 9-figure Hemp BrandHey friends,Our guest today is Mike Fata, Founder of Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods, which sells hemp-based foods, oils, and supplements. The company was acquired for 9 figures by Tilray in 2019. Now he’s an investor, coach, writer and author of “Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur”, which will be released on March 29th 2023. Highly recommend pre-ordering your copy.***Sponsor*** Introducing aVenture - venture capital for everyoneWith aVenture everyone can now invest directly into venture capital funds through our platform while also benefiting from periodic liquidity options.
2023-03-0945 minConsumer VC: Venture Capital I B2C Startups I Commerce | Early-Stage Investing
Consumer VC: Venture Capital I B2C Startups I Commerce | Early-Stage InvestingHow He Founded a 9-figure Hemp Brand // Mike Fata, Co-Founder of Manitoba Harvest Hemp FoodsWelcome to The Consumer VC, a newsletter about venture capital and consumer. If you aren’t subscribed, come and subscribe below.This issue is brought to you by aVenture - venture capital for everyone.Hey friends,Our guest today is Mike Fata, Founder of Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods, which sells hemp-based foods, oils, and supplements. The company was acquired for 9 figures by Tilray in 2019. Now he’s an investor, coach, writer and author of “Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur”, which will be released on March 29th 2023. Highly recommend pre-ordering your copy.
2023-03-0945 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMelissa Facchina: Co-Founder & General Partner, Siddhi CapitalGet your copy of Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur Connect with Mike >>>  Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter Get Mikes free mentorship tools at www.fatafleishman.org Sign up for The Unstoppable Entrepreneur newsletter Drop a review and let me know what resonates with you about the show! Thanks for listening and make it your Best Day Ever! In this episode, Mike is joined by Melissa Facchina, co-founder and general partner at Siddhi Capital. Melissa’s experience growing up around the manufacturing business combined wit...
2023-03-0957 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorPete Maldonado: Co-Founder & Co-CEO of CHOMPSIn this episode, Mike is joined by Pete Malonado. Pete is the co-founder  and co-CEO of Chomps, a better-for-you meat snack brand with products made from the highest-quality, sustainably sourced proteins and no hidden, harmful ingredients. Pete started the Chomps business from his apartment in 2012 and since then they have raised $80 million and the brand continues to be one of the fastest-growing in the country. Throughout this episode, Pete talks about co-founding Chomps, financing the business, marketing tactics, scrappy stories from his entrepreneurship journey, wellness habits that have helped him improve as a founder, how s...
2023-02-2338 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMatt Weiss: Founder & CEO, RIND SnacksIn this episode, Mike is joined by Matt Weiss, the founder and CEO of RIND Snacks. RIND Snacks motto is “Keep it Real, Eat the Peel!” Their product line of craveable dried fruit blends is “powered by the peel” to maximize nutrition and minimize waste. RIND is leading two of the most powerful trends in CPG today, functional nutrition and sustainable snacking. Prior to founding RIND, Matt spent 20 years in investment research at Baron Capital in New York. Matt also serves as the Founder and President of Friends of Chelsea Green, a grassroots non-profit dedicated to prese...
2023-02-1645 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMarie Chevrier Schwartz: CEO & Founder of SamplerIn this episode, Mike is joined by Marie Chevrier Schwartz, CEO and Founder of Sampler. Sampler is the leading Direct-to-Consumer product sampling platform helping brands like L'Oréal and Nestlé deliver samples online and gather the insights they need to build one-to-one relationships with consumers. Sampler has worked with over 900 brands in 24 countries, and has built a reach of over 59M consumers. Some of Sampler’s most notable clients  include Unilever, Pepsi, Henkel, and L'Oreal. Throughout this episode, Marie talks about building Sampler, the scrappy stories from building the company, her experience fundraising, the value that...
2023-02-0946 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorKaren Danudjaja: Co-Founder & CEO of BlumeIn this episode, Mike is joined by Karen Danudjaja, co-founder and CEO of Blume. During her time working in commercial realty and meeting with colleagues over coffee, Karen realized that there was nothing on the cafe menu that tasted great and actually did something good for your body. That's where her idea for Blume came from. Blume is a simple way to enhance your daily rituals with lattes, done better. With Blume,  you can now give your coffee a tasty superfood boost or swap it entirely for your favourite latte flavour that doesn't compromise your w...
2023-02-0246 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorJake Karls: Co-Founder & Rainmaker of Mid-Day SquaresIn this episode, Mike is joined by Jake Karls, Co-founder and Rainmaker of Mid-Day Squares. Jake, his sister Lezlie, and his brother-in-law Nick are the trio behind Mid-Day Squares, the first functional Chocolate Bar. As they say, it’s “everything a chocolate bar isn't, everything a protein bar wishes it was.” Jake's ability to build hype, create a loyal fan base through social media marketing and relationship building has been a vital component to Mid-Day Square’s success. Throughout this episode, Jake talks about discovering his strengths that he could bring to the Mid-Day Squares team, ad...
2023-01-2638 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorClaire Coder - Founder & CEO of Aunt FlowIn this episode, Mike is joined by Claire Coder, founder and CEO of Aunt Flow. After getting her period in public without a pad, tampon, or a coin to get one from the bathroom dispenser, Claire was inspired to create a solution to provide quality period products for free in public bathrooms. In 2016, Claire founded Aunt Flow. Today, Aunt Flow’s freely accessible period product dispensers filled with organic cotton tampons and pads are in bathrooms at businesses and schools across North America. Throughout this episode, Claire talks about the inspiration behind starting Au...
2023-01-1934 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorSean Riley: Co-founder & Chief Executive Dude of DUDE WipesIn this episode, Mike is joined by Sean Riley, “Chief Executive Dude” at DUDE Wipes. DUDE Wipes was created when Sean and his friends realized that baby wipes were a cleaner alternative to toilet paper. With $30k in cash DUDE Wipes was launched in 2012 out of an apartment in Chicago. A few years later they landed a Shark Tank deal and Mark Cuban invested in DUDE wipes. Today, as DUDE Wipes puts it, they “wipe over 1 billion butts per year” and are sold in Walmart, Target, Kroger, and on Amazon. Throughout this episode, Sean tal...
2023-01-1246 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMatthew von Teichman: Executive Chairman of Purplesful SnackingIn this episode, Mike is joined by Matthew von Teichman, Executive Chairman of Purplesful Snacking. Purplesful Snacking is a mission driven snacking business that puts Purpose before Profits. They donate 25% of our profits to support kids in underprivileged communities, focusing on improving nutrition, education and access for kids who need it most. Matthew is a natural entrepreneur, he has founded 9 companies in his career. He launched and sold his first business which was a bar/restaurant when he was in University, then launched and sold a franchised window cleaning company, after that he created Canada's first online...
2023-01-0540 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAlex Lieberman: Co-founder of the Morning BrewIn this episode, Mike is joined by Alex Lieberman, the Co-founder of the Morning Brew. Alex and his co-founder Austin Rief founded the Morning Brew newsletter in 2015 while they were students at the University of Michigan. Since then, the newsletter has over 4 million readers and has sold a majority stake for 8-figures in October of 2020 Morning Brew creates accessible content for anyone interested in business. They have a lifestyle and recommendations publication, Sidekick, and podcasts, Business Casual and Founders Journal. For the people who love to dive deep into an industry, they also have Emerging Tech Brew...
2022-12-2939 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorDominic Dube: Founder & CEO at Evive NutritionIn this episode, Mike is joined by Dominic Dube, the founder and CEO of Evive Nutrition. Evive was born after Dominic’s wife, Claudia, began making smoothies daily and the two of them had the idea to turn smoothie recipes into frozen cubes so they could prep their smoothies in 3 easy steps without using a blender. Since 2016,  Evive has grown nationwide in Canada, appeared on Dragon’s Den, and has expanded into the US. Today, Evive is one of the fastest-growing frozen food companies. Evive smoothies are certified organic, GMO-free, vegan, and allow you to prepare a delic...
2022-12-2243 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAaron Spivak: Co-Founder of HushIn this episode, Mike is joined by Aaron Spivak, co-founder of Hush. Aaron is a 27-year-old Canadian serial entrepreneur, former Canadian Junior Hockey League player,  public speaker, startup advisor, and was named to Forbes 30 under 30 in 2020. Hush is a sleep improvement company that sells the World's Most Popular  weighted blanket - designed to help those with sleep, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, and more. Within its first 24 months, Aaron and his team grew Hush to become an 8-figure brand. The company launched a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $1.5M+ in 30 days - making it the Top 10 most raised Canadian 30-d...
2022-12-1551 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Margaret Coons: Founder and CEO at Nuts For CheeseIn this episode, Mike is joined by Margaret Coons to answer questions from other founders. Margaret is the Founder and CEO at Nuts For Cheese, which she launched in 2015 to combine the highest quality ingredients to create the world’s best-tasting, gourmet vegan cheese. Throughout this episode, Margaret answers questions from other founders about what marketing tactics have brought the most traction, her advice for building a team, what it was like doing product demos during the pandemic, how she decided on the right packaging, and more. Follow Margaret Coons on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on...
2022-08-1126 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMargaret Coons: Founder and CEO at Nuts For CheeseIn this episode, Mike is joined by Margaret Coons, the Founder and CEO at Nuts For Cheese. When she launched the company in 2015, Margaret set out on a mission to use the highest quality ingredients to create the world’s best-tasting, gourmet vegan cheese. Nuts For Cheese has since become an award-winning manufacturer and distributes its products throughout Canada and the United States. Throughout this episode, Margaret talks about her journey to starting the company, when she became vegetarian, how her yoga practice influences her approach to business, the manufacturing side of the business, how the plant based consumer la...
2022-08-1143 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Annalea Krebs: Founder & CEO at Social NatureIn this episode, Mike is joined by Annalea Krebs. Annalea is the Founder & CEO at Social Nature, which she launched in 2015 as a product discovery and trial platform in the CPG space. Today, Soul Nature has a community with over 1 million members  and is actively changing consumer habits by providing members the opportunity to sample healthy and sustainable products on their shopping trip in exchange for an online product review.  Throughout this episode, Annalea answers questions from other founders about how to wear all hats of the business, if Soul Nature works with hemp products, and more. Fo...
2022-08-0417 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAnnalea Krebs: Founder & CEO at Social NatureIn this episode, Mike is joined by Annalea Krebs, the Founder & CEO at Social Nature. In 2015, Annalea launched Social Nature as a product discovery and trial platform in the CPG space which has now grown to a community with over 1 million members. Social Nature is working towards their mission of changing consumer habits by providing community members the opportunity to sample healthy and sustainable products on their shopping trip in exchange for an online product review.  Throughout this episode, Annalea talks to Mike about the foundational mission behind Soul Nature, what motivated her to start the business, what she h...
2022-08-0453 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Shaun Crew: Founder & Former President / CEO of Hemp Oil Canada IncIn this episode, Mike is joined by Shaun Crew for a question and answer session with other founders. Shaun is the original Founder and former President and CEO of Hemp Oil Canada Inc. After founding Hemp Oil Canada in 1998, Shaun grew the company to great success, eventually becoming the first company in the hemp industry to receive Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). Since selling the business in 2017, Shaun is now the Director at Merit Functional Foods and is passionate about helping other founders along their journey. Throughout this episode, Shaun answers questions...
2022-07-2821 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorShaun Crew: Founder & Former President / CEO of Hemp Oil Canada IncIn this episode, Mike is joined by Shaun Crew, the original Founder and former President and CEO of Hemp Oil Canada Inc. Originally founded in 1998, Shaun grew Hemp Oil Canada to great success, eventually becoming the first company in the hemp industry to receive Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). Since selling the business in 2017, Shaun is now the Director at Merit Functional Foods and is passionate about helping other founders along their journey. Throughout this episode, Shaun talks about his entrepreneurship journey since starting Hemp Oil Canada Inc., using trade shows to...
2022-07-2854 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Shelby Taylor: Founder & CEO at ChickapeaIn this episode, Mike is joined by Shelby Taylor, the Founder and CEO at Chickapea, which has had massive success since launching its organic pasta made from only chickpeas and lentils in 2015. As a previous health food store owner and a mom, Shelby recognized the challenge of finding a healthy meal that everyone would enjoy, so she turned the family favorite - pasta - into a superfood Throughout this episode, Shelby answers questions about her path to selling in retail stores, the most challenging part of the financial planning process, her current thoughts around broadening her product line, and...
2022-07-2119 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorShelby Taylor: Founder & CEO at ChickapeaIn this episode, Mike is joined by Shelby Taylor, the Founder and CEO at Chickapea, which has had massive success since launching its organic pasta made from only chickpeas and lentils in 2015. Throughout this episode, Shelby talks about what got her interested in health, building a business while building her family, co packing vs manufacturing, building her team and the culture of her company, the differences between the US and Canadian market, learnings from financing the business, and more. Follow Shelby Taylor on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Instagram
2022-07-2141 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Sean Holladay: Co-Founder of The SpacestationIn this episode, Mike is joined by Sean Holladay to answer questions from other founders. Sean is the Co-Founder The Spacestation which includes Spacestation Gaming, Spacestation Investments, and Spacestation Integrations . In this episode, Sean talks about  raising capital through NFTs, what  the hardest obstacle he has endured in his life has been, the importance of mentorship, and so much more. Follow Sean Holladay on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fatafleishman.org Check out all things Mike at Ww...
2022-07-1417 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorSean Holladay: Co-Founder of The SpacestationIn this episode, Mike is joined by Sean Holladay. Sean is the Co-Founder The Spacestation which includes Spacestation Gaming, Spacestation Investments, and Spacestation Integrations . In this episode, Sean talks about his journey to creating  The Spacestation,  previous companies he created and sold, investing in other companies, what the culture is at The Spacestation,  fostering creativity, brands that he is watching, social media marketing, the habits and routines that are integral to his success, and more. Follow Sean Holladay on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s fre...
2022-07-1446 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Adam Brown: Founder & President of Sircle MediaIn this episode, Mike is joined by Adam Brown, the Founder and President of Sircle Media. Adam has worked in and around digital marketing since 1999 and has held various positions on both the client and vendor sides. Since founding Sircle Media, a Social Media Strategy Firm based in New York City, Adam and his team work with CPG, Beverage, and Spirits brands to help them successfully implement social media strategies and execution. In this episode, Adam answers questions about how to maintain energy as a founder, marketing and working with hemp and  CBD companies, resources for social media strategy, w...
2022-07-0724 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAdam Brown: Founder & President of Sircle MediaIn this episode, Mike is joined by Adam Brown, the Founder and President of Sircle Media. Sircle Media is a Social Media Strategy Firm based in New York City that works with CPG, Beverage, and Spirits brands to help them successfully implement social media strategies and execution. In this episode, Adam talks about how he became passionate about sales and marketing, the culture he has created at Sircle Media, how he began working in the CPG space, the importance of engagement over followers on social media, the future for Sircle Media, and so much more. Follow Adam...
2022-07-0742 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Ari Raz: CEO of The Coconut CultIn this episode, Mike is joined by Ari Raz, the CEO of The Coconut Cult. The Coconut Cult is on a mission to help people restore their gut health through super probiotic coconut yogurt and gelato. Prior to joining The Coconut Cult team, Ari co-founded Once Upon a Farm and served as both CEO and President. Throughout this episode, Ari answers questions from other founders about shelf space, how everyone's strategy is different,  how transparent to be with your team, increasing product in your product line, kpi’s to look at when launching a new product, what ide...
2022-06-3054 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAri Raz: CEO of The Coconut CultIn this episode, Mike is joined by Ari Raz, the CEO of The Coconut Cult. The Coconut Cult is on a mission to help people restore their gut health through super probiotic coconut yogurt and gelato. Prior to joining The Coconut Cult team, Ari co-founded Once Upon a Farm and served as both CEO and President. Throughout this episode, Ari talks about his experience as a founder, deciding to leave the business he founded, co packing vs manufacturing, innovation, geographic sales channels, marketing for a CPG brand, raising capital, and more. Follow Ari Raz on...
2022-06-3040 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Lorna Vanderhaeghe: Founder of Lorna Vanderhaeghe Health SolutionsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Lorna Vanderhaeghe, to answer questions from other founders. Lorna was the founder, CEO, and creator of Lorna Vanderhaeghe Health Solutions, a top-selling line of women’s nutritional supplements. Since Lorna Vanderhaeghe Health Solutions was acquired by Jamieson Wellness, the largest nutritional supplement company for 8 figures, Lorna is on a mission to help and empower as many women (and men) as possible to find optimal health. Throughout this episode, Lorna answers questions about overcoming imposter syndrome, how she learned to be comfortable talking about money and asking for investment, her main strategy for ac...
2022-06-2327 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorLorna Vanderhaeghe: Founder of Lorna Vanderhaeghe Health SolutionsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Lorna Vanderhaeghe, President at Headlines Promotions Inc. Lorna was the founder, CEO, and creator of Lorna Vanderhaeghe Health Solutions, a top-selling line of women’s nutritional supplements. From the beginning, Lorna Vanderhaeghe Health Solutions made Canada’s Fastest-Growing Companies list every year and in four short years, it was acquired by Jamieson Wellness, the largest nutritional supplement company for 8 figures. Throughout this episode, Lorna talks about her education in nutritional medicine, alternative health, how she manifested getting out of poverty, ways that she found her mentors, product innovation, and more. Foll...
2022-06-2334 minThe Riderflex Podcast: Inspiring & Hiring
The Riderflex Podcast: Inspiring & HiringRiderflex Podcast - Guest Interview #263A - Mike FataThe Value Of Personal Growth - Mike Fata, Co-Founder; Fata & Fleishman | Riderflex - Recruiting & Sourcing Mike Fata is an experienced entrepreneur, investor and mentor. He is working to build a world class portfolio of natural product companies. Mike is the co-founder of Fata & Fleishman. He is also an author, a keynote speaker, host of the Founder to Mentor podcast, Global Growth Advisor of Mid-Day Squares, Chairman of the Board of Nuts for Cheese, Lifetime member (Past Chairman) of the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), Lifetime member (Past Chairman) of Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and investor...
2022-06-2353 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Steven Singer: Founder & CEO at Fody Food CoIn this episode, Mike is joined by Steven Singer to answer questions from other founders. Steven is the Founder of Fody Food Co, a business designed with your GI symptoms and digestive wellness in mind. He is also the Co-Founder of Glutino, which went on to become a global gluten-free leader and a 100 million dollar brand. Steven is on a mission to help millions of people around the globe improve their digestive help. Throughout this episode, Steven answers questions about finding the right retailers for your company, how to educate while also increasing sales, the one thing he wished...
2022-06-1641 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorSteven Singer: Founder & CEO at Fody Food CoIn this episode, Mike is joined by Steven Singer. With a passion to help people with their digestive help, Steven founded Fody Food Co, a business designed with your GI symptoms and digestive wellness in mind. He is also the Co-Founder of Glutino, which went on to become a global gluten-free leader and a 100 million dollar brand. Throughout this episode, Steven talks about product research, raising money, the operations behind co packing, differences between the US market vs. Canadian market, social and environment responsibility, and more. Follow Steven Singer on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on...
2022-06-1636 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Patrick Higgins: President of Propel Natural BrandsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Patrick Higgins, to answer questions from other founders. Patrick is the President of Propel Natural Brands, a retail brokerage that specializes in complete sales management of the Canadian market for natural brands. With their focus on cultivating relationships and leveraging innovative technology, Patrick and his team provide their clients with the infrastructure necessary to compete in the Canadian market. Throughout this episode, Patrick answers questions about working with brands as a retail brokerage, his perspective on direct to consumer, and more. Follow Patrick Higgins on LinkedIn Connect with...
2022-06-0922 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorPatrick Higgins: President of Propel Natural BrandsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Patrick Higgins, President of Propel Natural Brands. As a retail brokerage, Propel Natural Brands specializes in complete sales management of the Canadian market for natural brands. With their focus on cultivating relationships and leveraging innovative technology, Patrick and his team provide their clients with the infrastructure necessary to compete in the Canadian market. Throughout this episode, Patrick talks about his entrepreneurship journey, choosing brands to work with, leveraging data, what he looks for when investing in companies, giving back to the industry, being in the brokerage business, and more. Follow...
2022-06-0945 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Erika Rankin: Founder & CEO of Bro DoughIn this episode, Mike is joined by Erika Rankin, the founder and CEO of Bro Dough, to answer questions from other founders. Bro Dough is Canada's first better-for-you edible cookie dough - 100% vegan, contains plant-based protein, and uses natural sweeteners.Throughout this episode, Erika answers questions about leveraging TikTok for brand awareness, her thoughts around paid advertising, how to prioritize as an entrepreneur, developing flavors, and so much more. Follow Erika Rankin on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s f...
2022-06-0243 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorErika Rankin: Founder & CEO of Bro Dough - Canada’s first Better-For-You Edible Cookie DoughIn this episode, Mike is joined by Erika Rankin, the founder and CEO of Bro Dough. After being involved in the fitness industry for years, Erika took her passion and turned it into a business. Bro Dough is Canada's first better-for-you edible cookie dough - 100% vegan, contains plant-based protein, and uses natural sweeteners.Throughout this episode, Erika talks about her body building and fitness background, why she started Bro Dough, her advice for selling direct to consumer, leveraging tiktok for brand marketing and awareness, her passion for helping brands with their social media, and so much more. ...
2022-06-0228 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Nima Fotovat: Co-founder & President at Riverside Natural FoodsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Nima Fotovat, the Co-founder & President at Riverside Natural Foods, to answer questions from other founders. Riverside Natural Foods produces MadeGood, GOODTO GO and CookiePal, as well as private label products for leading retailers. Beyond their B Corp certification, Riverside Natural Foods is also a proud TRUE Zero Waste business with a silver rating, diverting a minimum of 92% of waste for reuse, recycling, composting and recovery for use in nature or the economy. Throughout this episode, Nima answers questions about ingredients for developing new products, tips and tricks while growing a business, building...
2022-05-2654 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorNima Fotovat: Co-founder & President at Riverside Natural FoodsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Nima Fotovat, the Co-founder & President at Riverside Natural Foods. Riverside Natural Foods produces MadeGood, GOODTO GO and CookiePal, as well as private label products for leading retailers. Beyond their B Corp certification, Riverside Natural Foods is also a proud TRUE Zero Waste business with a silver rating, diverting a minimum of 92% of waste for reuse, recycling, composting and recovery for use in nature or the economy. Throughout this episode, Nima talks about his entrepreneurship journey, manufacturing, distribution, sustainability, and more. Stay tuned for Part 2 for a Q & A with Nima! ...
2022-05-2634 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Ian Walker: Founder & President of Hippie SnacksIn this episode, Mike is joined by Ian Walker. Ian is the Founder & President of Hippie Snacks, a British Columbia-based Certified B Corporation that is dedicated to using as few steps as possible in its manufacturing process to keep the ingredients close to nature. Ian answers questions from other founders about hiring and building a team, marketing sustainability, his process before product launching, what his retail sales philosophy is, entering the United States market, and more. Follow Ian Walker on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow M...
2022-05-1954 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorIan Walker: Founder & President of Hippie SnacksIn this episode, Mike is joined by Ian Walker. Ian is the Founder & President of Hippie Snacks, a British Columbia-based company that is dedicated to using as few steps as possible in its manufacturing process to keep the ingredients close to nature. Ian talks about his experience with co-founders, his experience being a single founder, selecting products to distribute, strategies for product innovation, building the ‘hug factor’, and so much more. Follow Ian Walker on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get M...
2022-05-1936 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Greg FleishmanIn this episode, Mike is joined by Greg Fleishman. Greg answers questions from other founders about marketing, packaging, direct to consumer, scaling a team, and so much more. Greg has had multiple 9-figure exits as the Co-Founder/Board Director of Foodstirs, Co-Founder of Purely Righteous, Co-Founder Up To Good Energy, Co-Founder of Eat Union, Board Director for Lily's Sweets (exited to Hershey’s June 2021), Once Upon a Farm with Jennifer Garner, and more. Follow Greg Fleishman on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram ...
2022-05-122h 57Founder to Mentor
Founder to MentorGreg Fleishman: Sharing His Journey & Exiting Lily’s SweetsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Greg Fleishman. Greg is passionate about starting, nurturing, & funding Consumer Brands that help make the world better. He has had multiple 9-figure exits as the Co-Founder/Board Director of Foodstirs, Co-Founder of Purely Righteous, Co-Founder Up To Good Energy, Co-Founder of Eat Union, Board Director for Lily's Sweets (exited to Hershey’s June 2021), Once Upon a Farm with Jennifer Garner, and even more. Follow Greg Fleishman on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mik...
2022-05-1233 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with David Greenfeld: CEO & Founder of Dream PopsIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and founder of Dream Pops, David Greenfeld. David founded Dream Pops in 2018 with the mission of shaking up the dessert category with delicious and healthy plant-based products. Throughout this episode,  David answers questions from founders about raising money from investors, marketing on social media platforms, what pivotal decisions he made early on after launching, friction points when selling direct to consumer, transitioning to retail, and more. Follow David Greenfeld on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on...
2022-05-0552 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorDavid Greenfeld: CEO & Founder of Dream PopsIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and founder of Dream Pops, David Greenfeld. David founded Dream Pops in 2018 with the mission of shaking up the dessert category with delicious and healthy plant-based products. Throughout this episode,  David talks about what he credits the business’ success to, how he financed the company, selling direct to consumer, the impact of social media marketing, and so much more. Follow David Greenfeld on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s free m...
2022-05-0527 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Peter Neal: Co Founder of Neal Brothers FoodsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Peter Neal, co-founder of Neal Brothers Foods. Since Peter and his brother founded the company in 1988, Neal Brothers Foods has provided families throughout Canada with better-for-you snack options. Throughout this episode,  Peter answers questions from other founders about product manufacturing, what he looks for when making investments in other companies, the importance of collaboration and giving advice, creating a healthy balance between operational efficiency, sales & distribution, and so much more. Follow Peter Neal on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Fo...
2022-04-281h 44Founder to Mentor
Founder to MentorPeter Neal: Entrepreneurial Lessons Learned While Building Neal Brothers FoodsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Peter Neal, co-founder of Neal Brothers Foods. Since Peter and his brother founded the company in 1988, Neal Brothers Foods has provided families throughout Canada with better-for-you snack options. Throughout this episode,  Peter talks about the ups and downs that come with working with family, their innovation process, sourcing co packers, building company culture, and the importance of mental health as an entrepreneur. Follow Peter Neal on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s fr...
2022-04-2839 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with John Foraker: Co- Founder & CEO at Once Upon A FarmIn this episode, Mike is joined by John Foraker, the co-founder and CEO at Once Upon A Farm, a leading kid nutrition business for the next generation. John is also the founder and former CEO of Annie’s Inc and went on to be President of the Annie’s Unit when the company became a subsidiary of General Mills. Throughout this episode,  John answers questions from other founders about how to find a compatible co-founder, tactical tips for gathering the valuable data, suggestions on packaging redesign process, qualities he looks for when investing in entrepreneurs, handling pressure as an entre...
2022-04-2151 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorJohn Foraker: Co- Founder & CEO at Once Upon A FarmIn this episode, Mike is joined by John Foraker, the co-founder and CEO at Once Upon A Farm, a leading kid nutrition business for the next generation. John is also the founder and former CEO of Annie’s Inc and went on to be President of the Annie’s Unit when the company became a subsidiary of General Mills. Throughout this episode,  John talks about his career journey in the natural food and organic space, his process and thoughts around innovation, being an entrepreneur with environmental responsibility, and so much more. Check out Part 2 for the Question & Answer session with...
2022-04-2134 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with CEO at Three Farmers Foods Natasha VandenhurkIn this episode, Mike is joined by Natasha Vandenhurk. Natasha is the co-founder and CEO of Three Farmers Foods, a Canadian brand that provides healthy, wholesome plant-based snacks. In this episode, founders ask Natasha questions about her initial distributions strategy and how she has built out her team throughout scaling the business. Follow Natasha on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fatafleishman.org Check out all things Mike at Www.mikefata.ca
2022-04-1417 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorNatasha Vandenhurk: CEO at Three Farmers FoodsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Natasha Vandenhurk. Natasha is the co-founder and CEO of Three Farmers Foods, a Canadian brand that provides healthy, wholesome plant-based snacks. In this episode, Natasha shares her story of co-founding Three Farmers Foods with her sister and how they have built it to the successful brand it is today. She talks about changes she has seen over the decade in the industry, pros and cons of working with family, being on Dragons Den, manufacturing, the evolution of the brand, and so much more. Be sure to listen to Part 2 to hear a...
2022-04-1447 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMatt McLean: CEO & Founder of Uncle Matt’s OrganicIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and founder of Uncle Matt’s Organic, Matt McLean. Starting with one item sold locally in his backyard, Matt founded Uncle Matt’s Organic in June of 1999. Today, it’s the oldest organic OJ brand in the US and is sold in over 15,000 stores nationwide. Throughout this conversation, Matt talks about the early stages of the company, selling the company to Dean Foods, buying the company back, and lessons learned along the way. Check out Part 2 for a Q & A with Matt! Follow Matt McLean on LinkedIn Conn...
2022-04-0742 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Matt McLean: CEO & Founder of Uncle Matt’s OrganicIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and founder of Uncle Matt’s Organic, Matt McLean. Since founding the business in 1999, Uncle Matt’s Organic is now the oldest organic OJ brand in the US and is sold in over 15,000 stores nationwide. Throughout this conversation, Matt answers questions from other founders about managing a budget while scaling, knowing the right time to raise capital, bringing a new ingredient to the market, and more. Follow Matt McLean on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on In...
2022-04-0731 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorAlex Bayer: Co-Founder & CEO of Genius JuiceIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and co-founder of Genius Juice, Alex Bayer. Alex founded Genius Juice with a mission to make nutrition widespread and available to everyone. Genius Juice is the world's first all organic plant-based smoothie made from whole coconut,  simply blending two ingredients: organic coconut water and organic meat to make a delicious and clean smoothie.Throughout this conversation, Alex talks to Mike about his journey to founding Genius Juice, the company’s appearance on Shark Tank, focusing on direct to consumer, raising capital, perishable shipping solutions, and more. Check out Part 2 for a Q...
2022-03-3129 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Alex Bayer: Co-Founder & CEO of Genius JuiceIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and co-founder of Genius Juice, Alex Bayer. Alex founded Genius Juice with a mission to make nutrition widespread and available to everyone. Genius Juice is the world's first all organic plant-based smoothie made from whole coconut,  simply blending two ingredients: organic coconut water and organic meat to make a delicious and clean smoothie.Throughout this episode, Alex answers questions from founders about product labeling and packaging, maintaining quality while scaling your formula, running advertisements through retailers, and more. Follow Alex Bayer on LinkedIn Connect with Mike o...
2022-03-3134 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorKara Goldin: Tech Executive Turned Founder of Hint, Inc.In this episode, Mike is joined by Kara Goldin, CEO and founder of Hint, Inc. Hint is a San Francisco-based beverage company that was founded in 2005 and is best known for its delicious unsweetened flavored water. Throughout this conversation, Kara tells the story of how her personal health journey led to her to leave her tech executive position to founding Hint, Inc. She talks about entering the ready to drink industry, why she chose to co-pack, the importance of data, using social media to communicate with customers, and more. Follow Kara Goldin on LinkedIn Follow...
2022-03-2437 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ & A with Hint, Inc. Founder Kara GoldinIn this episode, Mike is joined by Kara Goldin, CEO and founder of Hint, Inc. to answer founders’ questions. Kara answers questions about creating a direct to consumer strategy, switching delivery systems, and how to manage ingredients as the company scales. Kara founded Hint in 2005 when she decided to quit drinking diet soda and was in search of a delicious unsweetened flavored water. Follow Kara Goldin on LinkedIn Follow Kara on Twitter Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s fre...
2022-03-2419 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMark Samuel: Lessons from Founding IWON OrganicsIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and founder of IWON Organics, Mark Samuel. As a health enthusiast and serial entrepreneur, Mark has over 17 years of start-up experience. In 2016, Mark founded IWON Organics (I’m Winning On Nutrition), a legume-based food company that makes bold, flavor-infused snacks, cereal and granola made from plant-based proteins. Throughout this conversation, Mark talks to Mike about understanding your customer, the influence of social marketing, how to present yourself to the people who work for you, and more. Check out Part 2 for a Q & A with Mark! Follow Mark Samuel on...
2022-03-1721 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with CEO and Founder of IWON Organics Mark SamuelIn this episode, Mike is joined by the CEO and founder of IWON Organics, Mark Samuel. In 2016, Mark founded IWON Organics (I’m Winning On Nutrition), a legume-based food company that makes bold, flavor-infused snacks, cereal and granola made from plant-based proteins. Throughout this episode, Mark answers questions from other founders regarding the direct to consumer landscape, co-packing, raising brand awareness, validating product before going to market, and more. Follow Mark Samuel on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s fre...
2022-03-1738 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorSuzie Yorke: Learning that Fats Are Fuel & Founding Love Good FatsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Suzie Yorke, the CEO and founder of Love Good Fats. As a marathon runner, cyclist, and 11x Ironman athlete, Suzie realized that her low fat diet was doing more harm than good and that incorporating fats in her diet could fuel her better. Suzie then founded Love Good Fats, a nutrition bar company that is low in sugar and loaded with good fats, and the company has since surpassed 8 figures. Throughout this conversation, Suzie shares her story of founding Love Good Fats and what she has learned about building a business in...
2022-03-1045 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ & A with Love Good Fats founder Suzie YorkeIn this episode, Suzie Yorke, the CEO and founder of Love Good Fats joins Mike for a Question & Answer session with other founders. Suzie has had incredible success since launching Love Good Fats bars in 2016, surpassing $100 million in revenue in just over 3 years. She answers questions about digital sampling, when to decide to co-pack, making a launch successful, fundraising, doing consumer research, presenting to retailers, and more. Suzie’s insights and advice from her experience can help all founders no matter what stage their business is in. Follow Suzie Yorke on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on...
2022-03-1052 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorNicholas Reichenbach: Founding Flow Alkaline Spring Water & 11 Other CompaniesIn this episode, Mike is joined by Nicholas Reichenbach. Nicholas is the Founder, Executive Chairman, and former CEO of Flow Alkaline Spring Water. Throughout this episode, Nicholas talks about when he knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur, building Flow Alkaline Spring Water, strategic thinking for market and channel, how his role at Flow Alkaline Spring Water has changed, and more. Nicholas is an incredible entrepreneur, having built 11 companies and led Flow Alkaline Spring Water to massive success in the natural products industry. Follow Nicholas Reichenbach on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn ...
2022-03-0341 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ & A with Flow Alkaline Spring Water Founder Nicholas ReichenbachIn this episode, Nicholas Reichenbach joins Mike for a Question & Answer session with other founders. Throughout this session, Nicholas answers questions about expanding distribution, when to ‘divorce’ from your company, how to enter new ventures, and more.  Nicholas is the Founder, Executive Chairman, and former CEO of Flow Alkaline Spring Water- one of 11 companies he has built- and has great insights that founders in all industries can benefit from hearing. Follow Nicholas Reichenbach on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s...
2022-03-0341 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ & A with Bio-K+ Founder Isabele ChevalierIn this episode, Isabele Chevalier, the founder and former CEO of Bio-K+, answers other natural products founder’s questions. Some of the topics that she provides her insights and answers to are about building a business with family members, what she looks for when investing in other founders, getting customers to try your product, raising equity, and more. Follow Isabele Chevalier on LinkedIn Follow Isabele on Instagram Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Clubhouse  Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fa...
2022-02-2435 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorIsabele Chevalier: Pioneering the Probiotic Industry & Building Bio-K+In this episode, Mike is joined by Isabele Chevalier, the founder and former CEO of Bio-K+. Bio-K+ is a Canadian company that provides premium-quality probiotic products backed by science.  Since launching Bio-K+ over 20 years ago, the company has been massively successful and expanded internationally. Throughout this episode Isabele shares her story of building Bio-K+ with her family and what she has learned from being in the early stages of the probiotic industry to now. Check out Part 2 to hear Isabele answer other founders’ questions! Follow Isabele Chevalier on LinkedIn Follow Isabele on Instagram Con...
2022-02-2434 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorDror Balshine: Founder of Sol Cuisine With 25 Years in the Plant Based IndustryIn this episode, Mike is joined by Dror Balshine the founder of Sol Cuisine (which was acquired by Plant Plus for $125mm). Dror first launched Sol Cuisine back in 1997 and the company has had incredible success over it’s 25+ years in the plant based food industry. Throughout this episode Dror shares the story of building Sol Cuisine and what has changed from the early stages in the industry to now. Follow Dror Balshine on LinkedIn Sol Cuisine Website  Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s fre...
2022-02-1736 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ & A with Sol Cuisine Founder Dror BalshineIn this episode, Mike hosts a Q & A session with Sol Cuisine Founder, Dror Balshine. Dror answers questions about working with wholesalers, building brand awareness, what he would tell his younger self, channel expansion, packaging, and more. Follow Dror Balshine on LinkedIn Sol Cuisine Website  Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Follow Mike on Instagram Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fatafleishman.org Check out all things Mike at Www.mikefata.ca
2022-02-171h 16Founder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Mid Day Squares founders Nick Saltarelli, Jake Karls, Lezlie KarlsHere is the Audience Q&A with Mike and Lezlie Karls, Jake Karls and Nick Saltarelli, the founders of Mid-Day Squares. Check out Mid-Day Squares Connect with Lezlie Karls on LinkedIn  Connect with Jake Karls on LinkedIn  Connect with Nick Saltarelli on LinkedIn  Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fatafleishman.org Check out all things Mike at Www.mikefata.ca
2022-02-1044 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorArlene Dickinson: Building Venture Communications & Helping Canadian Founders SucceedIn this episode, Mike is joined by the legendary Canadian businesswoman, Arlene Dickinson. Arlene talks about her mission and vision behind her marketing firm, Venture Communications, how she balances her time, lessons from raising funds, what she looks for in Canadian entrepreneurs as an investing Dragon on CBC’s show, Dragons’ Den, and more! Connect with Arlene on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fatafleishman.org Check out all things Mike at Www.mikefata.ca
2022-02-1027 minFounder to Mentor
Founder to MentorQ&A with Arlene Dickinson Venture CommunicationsHere is the Audience Q&A with Mike and Arlene Dickinson the founder of Venture Communications. Connect with Arlene on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fatafleishman.org Check out all things Mike at Www.mikefata.ca Get Mike’s free mentorship tools at Www.fatafleishman.org Check out all things Mike at Www.mikefata.ca
2022-02-101h 01Founder to Mentor
Founder to MentorMid-Day Squares: Nick Saltarelli, Jake Karls, Lezlie KarlsIn this episode, Mike is joined by Lezlie Karls, Jake Karls and Nick Saltarelli, the founders of Mid-Day Squares. They tell the story of the early stages of the brand, how the business began to scale, why their number one focus is the customer, lessons from raising capital, and more. Check out Part 2 to hear their answers to founders' questions! Check out Mid-Day Squares Connect with Lezlie Karls on LinkedIn  Connect with Jake Karls on LinkedIn  Connect with Nick Saltarelli on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Ge...
2022-02-0953 minChatter that Matters
Chatter that MattersHARVESTING MATTERS to Mike FataA magical story of turning impossibility into possibility. At 13, Mike Fata drops out of school to help his Mom, balloons to 300 pounds on a junk food diet and self-pity. At age 18, he says: 'I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.' On his journey to regaining his mental and physical health, Mike Fata discovers Hemp, an excellent source of essential fats. Still, it's a banned crop because of its association with cannabis. He sees this as an opportunity, and after many bureaucratic hurdles, he starts with one farm, one press and one customer at a time. He...
2022-01-1438 minTime To Grow
Time To Grow13 Year Old Dropout to Multi-Million Dollar Entrepreneur and Now Mentor with Mike FataIn this week’s episode, Kyle is joined by the one and only Mike Fata. After dropping out of school at just 13 years old, Mike joined the workforce earlier than most. When he found himself weighing upwards of 300 pounds at 18 years old, Mike began a weight loss journey that would spark his passion for the health industry and lead him to founding Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods in 1998. With Mike as Chairman & CEO, Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods became massively successful and was sold in 2019 for $419 million dollars. Throughout this conversation, Mike describes the lessons that dropping out of school at 13 ye...
2021-12-0146 minBrands for a Better World (formerly Evolve CPG)
Brands for a Better World (formerly Evolve CPG)042 - From Founder to Mentor with Mike Fata of Manitoba HarvestFeeling constantly sick, tired, and weighing 300 pounds at 18 years old, Michael Fata embarked on a pursuit of health, which, after much experimentation, led him to the discovery of the benefits of hemp.Hemp, though often confused with marijuana, has no mind-altering properties and is a great source of essential fatty acids. When Michael founded his company, Manitoba Harvest, not only did he have zero high school or college education, but he was also faced with the challenges of hemp being a product with a brand-new supply chain, laden with numerous regulatory challenges. However, Michael’s pas...
2021-11-0341 minTaste Radio
Taste RadioAfter A $419M Exit, Manitoba Harvest's Mike Fata Has Something 'Bigger' On His MindMike Fata's entrepreneurial journey began when he dropped out of high school. It culminated in the $419 million acquisition of the company he co-founded, global hemp foods producer Manitoba Harvest. Reflecting on his remarkable ascent, Fata mentions one regret: that he didn't "dream bigger." Launched in 1998, Manitoba Harvest, which is best known for its popular Hemp Hearts brand, has played a critical role in education about and mainstream adoption of hemp, beginning in its home market of Canada and later in the United States. Seventeen years after the company's debut, Fata guided a majority sale of Manitoba Harvest...
2021-03-1638 minThe Health Ranger Show
The Health Ranger ShowHealth Ranger Show #50: Interview with Mike Fata from Manitoba HarvestManitoba Harvest president Mike Fata talks about the first unsweetened, certified organic hemp milk product that's ever been released: Hemp Bliss. Website is www.ManitobaHarvest.com
2008-07-1500 min