Julia Cooper
Julia Cooper is an innovative product developer and business operations leader with a passion for bringing practical, user-centered ideas to life. Over the past two years, she has focused on product development and open innovation, creating patent-pending inventions such as CoreGuard and Juul A Expandables, an adaptable earring designed for versatility and everyday wear. Her work is driven by a desire to solve real-world problems through thoughtful design, blending creativity with functionality.
In addition to her work in innovation, Julia plays a pivotal role in the growth and success of Cooking with Mr. Cooper, a family-owned startup she has helped build over the past five years. As the driving force behind operations and strategic brand development, she has been instrumental in scaling the brand to a thriving audience of over 1.6 million followers and subscribers. Working alongside her husband, the face of the company, Julia has managed the business infrastructure, brand strategy, and consulting efforts that have fueled its expansion and visibility.
Julia’s journey into innovation began more than a decade ago during her pregnancy, when she recognized a gap in products designed to support comfort and safety in the kitchen. This experience inspired her first invention and sparked a long-term commitment to creating solutions that address overlooked needs. Through her entrepreneurial spirit and hands-on leadership, Julia continues to pursue new ventures, driven by a deep sense of purpose and the confidence she gained from building and supporting a successful brand.
• University of Illinois at Chicago
• Ashworth College
• Personal interests - interior design
• Music
• Reading
• Basketball
• Musical Director at church for 20 years
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to building a family business alongside my husband, where we combined our strengths to create and grow a meaningful brand. That experience not only strengthened my entrepreneurial foundation but also gave me the confidence to pursue my own path in innovation and product development.
My inspiration comes from my family and a deep passion for solving real-life problems through thoughtful, creative solutions. Many of my ideas are rooted in personal experiences, which drives me to develop products that are both practical and impactful.
I also credit my success to consistent, hands-on work each day—from content creation and managing brand partnerships to developing new products. Staying actively involved in every aspect of the business has allowed me to grow, adapt, and continue building with purpose.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering this industry to stay consistent and trust the process. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but showing up every day, putting in the work, and remaining committed to your goals will set you apart over time. Believe in your vision, be patient with your growth, and understand that every step—big or small—is part of the journey.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, honesty, and authenticity. I believe in staying true to who I am, being transparent in my actions, and building trust through consistency and accountability. These values guide how I make decisions, how I show up for others, and how I approach every opportunity.
Locations
Cooking with Mr. Cooper
Country Club Hills, IL 60478