Free Daily Podcast Summary
Leading For Wellness: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Liesl Bernard
Get key takeaways, quotes, and insights from Leading For Wellness in a 5-minute read. Delivered straight to your inbox.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 1 weeks ago42 min
EP 32 - How Transparency and Quality Control Are Changing the Natural Products Industry - Élan Sudberg
Élan M. Sudberg is CEO of Alkemist Labs, a passionately committed contract testing laboratory specializing in plant and fungal authentication and quantitative analytical services to the food & beverage, nutraceutical, companion animal and psychedelic industries. He holds a degree in chemistry from California State University Long Beach, and has authored numerous articles on phytochemistry and analytical techniques for the natural products industry. Elan is on the AHPA board, was founding chair of the Cannabis Committee, and now chairs the Psychedelic Plants & Fungi Committee. Other boards he serves on include the United Natural Products Association (UNPA) Executive Advisory Committee. He is a Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry Advisor to the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia. The industry has honored Elan and his company in 2019 with NutraIngredients-USA NutraChampion award for advocacy of best testing practices, and the Nutrition Business Journal (NBJ) award for Efforts on Behalf of Industry in 2022. ---- Élan M. Sudberg shares his 30-year journey in botanical testing, the importance of quality control, and how transparency can revolutionize the industry. Discover insights on testing methods, building a company culture, and enhancing consumer confidence in natural products. Chapters 00:00 Roots of Passion: A Natural Upbringing 03:08 The Birth of Alkemist Labs: From Garage to Industry Leader 05:55 Navigating Challenges: The David vs. Goliath of Labs 09:06 Expertise and Innovation: What Sets Alkemist Labs Apart 11:55 Understanding Testing: Identity, Potency, and Contamination 14:55 Building Consumer Confidence: The Importance of Transparency 17:47 Outcomes Assured: Marketing Quality in the Industry 22:02 Testing and Quality Assurance in the Industry 25:21 Company Culture and Leadership Values 31:43 The Importance of Work-Life Balance 32:00 Passion for Quality and Integrity 37:44 Health, Wellness, and Personal Life 38:24 The Need for Transparency in the Industry Élan Sudberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elan-sudberg-62b7774/ https://www.alkemist.com/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
- 3 weeks ago49 min
EP 31 - Revolutionizing Women's Hydration: The Greater Than Story - Heather Howell
Heather Howell shares her inspiring journey from leading global innovation at Jack Daniels to becoming CEO of Greater Than, a brand dedicated to women's hydration and wellness. Discover how she identified a white space in the beverage market, reformulated products to meet women's needs, and built a brand rooted in empowerment, authenticity, and community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Greater Than and Heather's Journey 02:51 The Evolution of Greater Than: A Focus on Women's Wellness 06:00 Reformulating for Women: Ingredients and Health Benefits 08:49 Branding and the Goddess Concept 12:05 Challenges in the Beverage Market: Getting on Shelves 14:59 The Vision for Greater Than: Future Innovations 24:42 Empowering Women Through Community Engagement 26:24 Overcoming Challenges as an Entrepreneur 30:22 The Importance of Female Representation in Business 33:27 Balancing Work and Family Life 39:03 Nourishing the Mind and Body 43:37 Advice for Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs Contact Heather Howell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-howell-579180118/ https://www.drinkgt.com/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
- 4 weeks ago59 min
EP 30 - Unlocking the Power of Nitric Oxide: The Miracle Molecule - Joel Kocher
Joel Kocher shares his remarkable journey from tech industry leadership to pioneering in the nutraceutical space with a focus on nitric oxide and its impact on human health. Discover how science, purpose, and strategic vision are transforming health and wellness. Chapters 00:00 From Tech to Nutraceuticals: A Journey of Purpose 02:57 The Miracle Molecule: Understanding Nitric Oxide 05:55 The Science Behind Human Products 09:02 Building Trust in the Nutraceutical Industry 11:50 Disrupting the Market: The Role of Education 14:45 The Future of Healthcare and Nutrition 17:47 Navigating the Challenges of the Nutraceutical Industry 20:55 The Path Forward: Sustainability and Reform 31:23 The Role of AI in Trust and Industry Sustainability 33:21 Vision and Purpose in Entrepreneurship 35:20 Hiring for Culture Fit and Revolutionary Mindsets 41:11 Articulating Vision and Corporate Objectives 43:36 Transitioning from Tech to Entrepreneurship 51:47 The Importance of Talent in Scaling Businesses 52:33 Working with a Spouse in Business 54:24 Health, Nutrition, and Personal Well-being Joel Kocher https://www.linkedin.com/in/jkocher/ https://humann.com/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
- Apr 3, 202637 min
EP 29 - Harnessing AI and Evidence in Nutraceutical Innovation - Rajat Mittal Shah
Rajat Mittal Shah is the Co-founder of Nutriventia, a science-backed nutraceutical ingredients company, a patented inventor, published researcher, and APAC Regional Co-Chair of Women in Nutraceuticals, and today, a candidate for the WIN Global Board of Directors. She brings something rare to this industry: a technology and systems mindset layered on top of deep pharma and nutraceutical experience, and a belief that science is the only durable currency in wellness. About Nutriventia Headquartered in Mumbai, India, Nutriventia Limited is a leading innovator in premium nutraceutical ingredients, combining science and nature to deliver effective health solutions. With nearly four decades of experience and a pioneering role in Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS), Nutriventia develops high-performance, clinically validated ingredients that address bioavailability, stability, and efficacy. Its advanced delivery platforms enhance consumer convenience, compliance, and outcomes. Trusted by nutraceutical brands worldwide, Nutriventia continues to set benchmarks in creating safe, effective, and consumer-friendly health solutions. https://www.nutriventia.com ---- In this insightful interview, Rajat Mittal shares her journey from India to the US, her entrepreneurial ventures in nutraceuticals, and her vision for the industry's future, emphasizing evidence-based solutions, technology, and diversity in leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rashad Mattel and Nutraceuticals 01:46 Rajat's Journey: From Education to Entrepreneurship 04:09 Personal Motivation Behind Nutraceuticals 06:56 The Future of the Nutraceutical Industry 10:33 Women in Nutraceuticals: The Importance of Diversity 15:19 Challenges and Opportunities in the APAC Region 19:38 Cultural Nuances in Business: The McDonald's Example 23:06 Framework for Entering the APAC Market 26:04 The Role of AI in the Future of Nutraceuticals 31:33 Vision for Women in Nutraceuticals Board 34:37 Conclusion and Call to Action Rajat Mittal Shah https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajatmittal/ https://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/exclusives/dont-just-move-east-why-global-programs-miss-the-mark-when-designed-in-the-west-and-how-apac-teams-can-fix-them/ https://www.nutriventia.com/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
- Feb 17, 202642 min
EP 28 - Integrative Aesthetics: Merging Wellness and Beauty - Mark Tager, MD
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Mark Tager discusses his journey from family medicine to the field of aesthetics, emphasizing the merging of wellness and beauty. He explores the importance of nutrition, exercise, and hormonal balance in maintaining skin health, while also addressing the impact of sugar and the science behind collagen treatments. Dr. Tager advocates for a comprehensive approach to wellness clinics that prioritize personalized care and preventive measures, highlighting the role of epigenetics and mindfulness in achieving overall health and beauty. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Integrative Aesthetics 03:04 The Merging of Aesthetics and Wellness 06:00 The Role of Exercise and Nutrition 08:57 Understanding Hormones and Skin Health 11:45 The Impact of Sugar on Skin 14:56 The Journey of Collagen Health 17:51 Building a Comprehensive Clinic 21:05 The Importance of Testing and Personalization 24:00 The Role of Lifestyle in Longevity 26:54 The Future of Healthcare and Patient Relationships 29:56 The Science of Epigenetics and Presence Contact Mark Tager https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktager/ Contact@drtager.com https://www.amazon.com/Integrative-Aesthetics-Roadmap-Practice-Success/dp/0971625069 Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
- Feb 2, 202643 min
EP 27 - The Science Behind Nutraceuticals - Jeremy Bartos, Ph.D.
Jeremy Bartos, Ph.D., is the Chief Science Officer at INW, a contract manufacturing conglomerate specializing in dry dosage forms, liquids, softgels, and functional bars. He has over 18 years of experience working in the dietary supplements industry in a variety of R&D, product development, innovation, business development and sales roles. He specializes in probiotics, having formulated probiotic dietary supplements that have generated close to $1 Billion in sales to date and is an elected member of the International Probiotics Association’s Board of Directors and Executive Advisory Committee Member for the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA). In his current role, he utilizes his knowledge of the scientific and clinical benefits of nutraceutical ingredients to create new finished product solutions for the dietary supplement, food, beverage and personal care industries, specializing in probiotic, sports nutrition, and health condition-specific innovative solutions. His accolades include authoring peer-reviewed publications, co-inventing numerous natural products patents and launching both branded proprietary ingredients and successful finished products tailored for various dietary supplement markets. Dr. Bartos received his B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Rochester and his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Roswell Park Cancer Institute, a division of the State University of New York at Buffalo. ----- In this conversation, Liesl interviews Jeremy Bartos, PhD, the Chief Science Officer of INW, about his unique journey from the pharmaceutical industry to the nutraceutical space. Jeremy shares insights on the differences between these fields, the importance of product development, and the role of science in marketing nutraceuticals. He discusses the impact of AI on consumer behavior, the integration of traditional medicine with modern science, and emerging trends in the nutraceutical industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for real science behind products and the importance of education in consumer health practices. Chapters 00:00 Journey from Pharmaceuticals to Nutraceuticals 05:08 The Role of Product Development in Nutraceuticals 10:21 Understanding R&D and Product Development 15:14 The Importance of Science in Marketing Claims 18:40 Navigating Consumer Behavior in the Digital Age 20:33 The Impact of AI on Product Development 24:10 Integrating Traditional Medicine into Modern Formulations 29:40 Trends in the Nutraceutical Industry 37:45 Personal Health Practices and Industry Insights Contact Jeremy Bartos: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremybartos/ jbartos@inwmfg.com https://www.inwmfg.com/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
- Jan 27, 202647 min
EP 26 - Navigating the Dietary Supplement Landscape - Duffy MacKay
In this conversation, Liesl interviews Duffy MacKay, Senior Vice President of Dietary Supplements for the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA). Duffy shares his extensive background in the supplement industry, discussing the evolution of dietary supplements, the role of CHPA in ensuring quality and access to self-care products, and the challenges faced by the industry today. He emphasizes the importance of education for consumers, the need for stricter regulations, and the future focus on integrating dietary supplements into overall wellness. Duffy also shares his personal health practices and the significance of community in navigating the industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Duffy MacKay and His Journey 03:08 The Role of CHPA in Dietary Supplements 06:11 Consumer Access and Product Quality Initiatives 08:55 Challenges Facing the Dietary Supplement Industry 11:55 The Impact of Social Media on Consumer Trust 15:05 Future Focus of CHPA and Regulatory Changes 18:06 Navigating the Dietary Supplement Landscape 20:48 Personal Health Practices of Duffy MacKay 23:53 Conclusion and Future Events Contact Duffy MacKay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duffy-mackay-6ab19b12/ Dmackay@chpa.org https://www.chpa.org/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
- Jan 20, 202641 min
EP 25 - Unlocking the Future of Wellness: Trends in Supplements - Scott Dicker
Scott Dicker is a recognized thought leader in the natural products and active nutrition industries, known for transforming complex market data into clear, actionable insights. As a leading voice in the space, Scott is a frequent keynote speaker at major industry conferences, where he helps brands, retailers, suppliers, and investors understand not just where the market is today — but where it’s heading next. With a background rooted in data‑driven analysis and strategic storytelling, Scott has built a reputation for spotting emerging trends early and translating them into practical strategies that drive growth. His work at SPINS, where he serves as Sr. Director of Market Insights, has made him a go‑to expert for companies seeking to navigate the rapidly evolving health, wellness, and CPG landscape. Whether he’s breaking down the latest consumer behavior shifts, forecasting category growth, or revealing the next big opportunity in wellness, Scott brings clarity, depth, and forward‑thinking perspective to every conversation. His engaging style and ability to make data meaningful have made him a sought‑after guest for podcasts, panels, and stages across the country. --- In this episode, Liesl Bernard welcomes Scott Dicker, the Senior Director for Market Insights at SPINS, to discuss the latest trends in the supplement and wellness industry. Scott shares his unconventional journey from being a sports nutritionist to leading market insights at SPINS, where he analyzes consumer behavior and industry trends. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how shoppers' preferences are evolving and how brands can adapt to meet these changes. Scott also highlights the release of SPINS' 2026 prediction report, which identifies key trends such as conscious consumption, anywhere commerce, and the rise of non-human participation in product discovery. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Trends in Supplements 04:27 Scott Dicker's Journey in Nutrition and Data 08:25 Key Insights from the 2026 Prediction Report 12:50 Emerging Categories: Joint Health, Energy, and Hormones 19:29 The Rise of Personalized Nutrition 22:24 Trends in Sleep and Mood Support 27:35 Final Thoughts and Personal Health Practices Contact Scott Dicker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-dicker-6a83b965/ https://www.spins.com/resources/report/2026-trend-predictions/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
About Leading For Wellness
Welcome to Leading For Wellness, the podcast where we explore the intersection of business success and holistic health. Join Liesl Bernard, the CEO of Kalon Executive Search, as she talks with visionary entrepreneurs and executives who are transforming the wellness industry. Subscribe to Leading For Wellness and join our community of wellness leaders today.
Customized Recaps
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Straight to Your Inbox
Get key takeaways from Leading For Wellness in a 5-minute read.
Save Hours Every Week
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Podzilla's Leading For Wellness daily summary?
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of Leading For Wellness as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
How does the Leading For Wellness podcast summary work?
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
Is this an official Leading For Wellness product?
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by Liesl Bernard.
Can I get summaries of other podcasts too?
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts. Upgrade to Pro for 15, or Premium for 50. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
How often does Leading For Wellness release new episodes?
Leading For Wellness publishes biweekly. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
What topics does Leading For Wellness cover?
Leading For Wellness covers topics including Business, Careers. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Start getting Leading For Wellness summaries tomorrow morning.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.