Rebecca Richardson

I attribute my success to a strong belief in possibility, combined with setting clear goals and maintaining a plan for forward movement, even though the plan often changes along the way. I’ve learned that without direction it’s easy to become stagnant, but by staying open to new experiences and stepping outside my comfort zone, I’ve been able to create momentum and growth. I’ve also been fortunate to encounter meaningful opportunities and connections at the right time—such as being introduced to key industry leaders through personal networks—which helped me refine my ideas, strengthen my focus, and move my work forward in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.

One of the best pieces of career advice I’ve received from my dad is, “Never underestimate the power of being underestimated.” It has been especially meaningful during career transitions, when imposter syndrome can arise, reminding me to turn doubt into motivation rather than limitation. My parents have also been a strong influence in my life and career, and their support and perspective have played a key role in shaping my resilience and growth.

I would advise young women entering my industry to focus on doing thorough research and actively leveraging their network. Reach out to people you know, as you may be surprised by how many are willing to support, guide, and invest in your growth. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that your network is one of your most valuable assets, and consistently building and nurturing those relationships is essential for long-term success.

One of the biggest challenges in my field is the lack of transparency in parts of the supplement industry, especially around marketing claims versus product efficacy in areas like mushroom supplements. Many companies use mycelium because it is faster and cheaper to produce, but it is not always as potent as full-spectrum fruiting body extracts. This also represents a major opportunity to raise standards through education, testing, and accountability. Our focus is on transparency, scientific validation, and working with medical professionals to better understand and verify product impact, which is ultimately driving both industry improvement and meaningful outcomes for people.

Integrity and transparency are the core values that guide both my work and personal life. I’m focused on building the kind of company I always wanted to work for—one that shares success with its people, including providing employees with equity because their contributions are essential to what we’re building. I’ve also learned the importance of presence and self-awareness through my experiences with horses, which have taught me to stay grounded and fully engaged in the moment. Ultimately, much of what I do is driven by a desire to honor my parents’ legacy and the values they instilled in me.