
Free Daily Podcast Summary
by Liesl Bernard
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.
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
Liesl Bernard speaks with John Quilter, CEO of Saanroo, about his shift from a long corporate career into a family-owned wellness business. John shares why he stepped away from a high-travel leadership role, how he rebuilt balance in his life, and why Saanroo’s science-first approach sets it apart in the nutraceutical space. John explains why he left an 18-year global leadership career at Kerry and nearly retired in 2023 before choosing a new entrepreneurial path. He shares how constant travel, family priorities, and burnout risk pushed him to reassess what success really meant. Saanroo’s rebrand from Gencor is discussed to separate the nutraceutical business from the family’s broader pharma interests. John outlines Saanroo’s science-led positioning, including nearly 80 clinical studies and roughly $20 million invested in research. He breaks down Saanroo’s core product platforms: men’s health, female health, health span and metabolic health, and advanced delivery systems. The conversation covers Levigen, Triptee, Testafin, Tesnor, Liby FEM, and Hair Age as examples of Saanroo’s branded ingredients and areas of focus. John explains why delivery systems matter, especially bioavailability, stomach resistance, and better absorption of lipids and other ingredients. He describes the company’s partnership with Pharmaco in Australia and the role of technologies like LippySpurse, Aquacell, CPO, and liposome formats. John talks through the culture he is building at Saanroo, emphasizing humility, vulnerability, respect, and supporting people as whole humans, not just employees. He shares how the company is thinking about AI adoption, starting with policy, internal Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to John Quilter and Saanroo’s story 01:16 - Why John stepped back from corporate life 04:34 - Choosing entrepreneurship over retirement 06:28 - How Saanroo became the next chapter 07:25 - Family culture and people-first leadership 09:59 - Strategy, structure, and execution as John’s leadership framework 11:21 - Building personal balance through travel limits, swimming, and family time 13:51 - Why Gencor became Saanroo and what the new name means 15:01 - Why science and clinical research are central to the brand 17:24 - How Levigen and Triptee work in simple terms 20:11 - Saanroo’s four growth platforms 21:36 - Hair health, publications, and credibility through science 23:03 - Delivery systems: powders, liposomes, and better absorption 24:30 - Manufacturing standards and pharmaceutical-grade quality 26:07 - The next two to five years: growth, expansion, and stronger market recognition 30:17 - Hiring for culture fit and practicing humility 31:05 - Celebrating wins, handling mistakes privately, and staying aligned 33:29 - Why small gestures build loyalty and trust 35:25 - Vulnerability, leadership, and not needing to know everything 36:25 - Zooming in and out without getting lost in the details 38:27 - How Saanroo is approaching AI adoption 41:08 - John’s morning routine and supplement habits 43:19 - Where John is happiest outside of work 44:49 - Favorite travel destinations, especially Asia and Japan 46:56 - The quote John lives by: “If it is to be, it’s up to me” Contact John Quilter: https://www.saanroo.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-quilter-3b316b22/ George Kokkinis – Bioavailability Scientist Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
Sarah was formerly with Fonterra and held roles as Vice President International Farming based in China, Managing Director of Dairy Nutrition, and Managing Director of RD1-Fonterra’s chain of rural retail stores. Prior to joining Fonterra in 2011 she had more than 20 years’experience in dietary and animal nutrition, including ten years as Managing Director of Healtheries/Vitaco NZ Ltd. During her time at Healtheries, she trebled the company revenue and then oversaw the merger of Healtheries and Nutralife to form Vitaco the third largest health and wellbeing company in the Australasian market. She is originally a veterinarian by training and has held a number of other senior executive positions in agribusiness and food industries. In 2009/2010 Sarah completed a Sloan Fellowship Program in Global Leadership and Innovation at Massachusetts Institute of Technology with 110 other Sloans selected from around the world. Sarah has held a number of board positions with Government, private, philanthropic andlisted NZ companies. Calocurb currently sells in ve international markets and continues to grow rapidly through channels and geographies. ----- Sarah Kennedy, founder and CEO of Calocurb, shares the science behind this natural appetite suppressant and its potential to revolutionize weight management. Discover how it stimulates your body's own hormones, its clinical trial results, and future applications. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Kennedy and Calocurb 01:54 The science behind Calocurb's mechanism of action 03:51 Research and clinical trials supporting Calocurb 08:10 How bitter taste receptors influence appetite 11:58 Calocurb's effects on hunger, cravings, and rebound eating 16:11 Clinical trial results on weight loss and fat reduction 20:10 Using Calocurb to support gut-brain access and hormonal balance 23:58 Sarah's journey as a female founder and CEO 32:05 Future vision and potential applications of Calocurb 10% Off Discount Code for Calocurb: LFW10 Contact Sarah Kennedy https://www.calocurb.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kennedy-0a840b13/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
Elina Sofia Wang, CEO and founder of ESW Beauty, shares her journey from personal health struggles to building a successful, community-focused skincare brand. Discover her strategies for growth, overcoming obstacles, and maintaining mental wellness as an entrepreneur. Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Struggles to Success 03:06 Building a Brand: The Vision and Strategy 06:01 Overcoming Obstacles: Lessons Learned Along the Way 08:57 The Evolution of Leadership: From Founder to CEO 11:57 Community and Connection: The Heart of ESW Beauty 14:39 Mental Wellness: The Key to Entrepreneurial Success 17:53 Future Aspirations: What's Next for ESW Beauty Contact Elina Sofia Wang https://www.linkedin.com/in/elina-sofia-wang-ab78409a/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/eswbeauty/ https://eswbeauty.com/ https://www.instagram.com/esw.beauty Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
Paul Frantellizzi is a passionate and motivational leader with results-oriented entrepreneurial vision and a unique ability to bring great value to every relationship and business opportunity. A former native of NYC, Paul has a 40+ year history and experience with start-ups, executive management, the organic food industry, two-term Mayor, Police Commissioner, filmmaker, and a national sales and marketing director for Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. He currently leads the team@ Joyful Humans & Blue Toad® developing microdose delivery formats, MGBA support nutrient-rich supplements, protein bars, tinctures, powders, drinks, chocolate, etc., all utilizing Nootropics, Ayurvedic Botanicals, Hemp/ Cannabis/ Mushroom products. Prior to creating Joyful & the Toad, Paul was the Chief Innovation Officer for Stanley Brothers Cannabis (founders of Charlotte's Web), he founded the country's premiere co-manufacturer of functional-foods, GOOD SUPERFOODS® (winner of NUTRACON & SSW Editors Choice) and Superfood Innovation Lab® where he innovated for iconic clients such as; USANA, Melaleuca, NuSkin, NewWays, Young Living, Scentsy, Modere, Dr. Mercola, Onnit Nutrition, Walmart, Garden of Life, Kroger, Labrada Nutrition, and many more. Paul also founded the country’s first organic vending distribution company (NextGen Vending®), and developed that industry’s first PLA-based biodegradable water bottle (Earthpure Organics®). His beautiful family, core values, sense of community, and a powerful work ethic inspire Paul to be his best everyday ----- In this episode, Paul Frantellizzi shares his personal journey through the testosterone crisis affecting men, explores the science behind hormone health, and offers practical advice on lifestyle, diet, and supplements to optimize testosterone levels and overall well-being. Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Testosterone Crisis 02:59 The Symptoms of Andropause 05:50 The Role of Testosterone in Men's Health 08:47 The Importance of Comprehensive Hormone Testing 11:44 The Endocannabinoid System and Hormonal Balance 14:56 Total Testosterone vs. Free Testosterone 17:37 Cultural Influences on Men's Testosterone Levels 20:37 Raising Boys to Embrace Masculinity 27:29 The Power of Kindness and Unconditional Love 28:18 Lifestyle Changes for Natural Testosterone Support 29:30 Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options 31:12 The Importance of Resistance Training and Sleep 33:14 Cortisol Management and Sunlight Exposure 34:40 Dietary Choices for Hormonal Health 36:37 The Role of Fermented Foods and Gut Health 37:28 Understanding Visceral Fat and Its Impact 38:59 Intermittent Fasting and Weight Management 39:51 Key Supplements for Testosterone Enhancement 41:15 Blood Panels and Hormonal Health 46:14 Taking Control of Long-Term Health Contact Paul Frantellizzi: https://www.joyfulhumans.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulfrantellizzi/ https://www.instagram.com/joyful.humans/ https://leadingforwellness.com/blog/guide-to-andropause Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
In this insightful interview, Tim Adams shares his expertise on performance, mindset, and holistic self-awareness. Discover how aligning mind, body, spirit, and emotions can unlock peak performance and authentic leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Performance and Mindset 02:26 The Foundation of Coaching: Mind, Body, and Spirit 07:57 Lessons from the Sports Field: Precision and Performance 12:42 The Importance of Mindset in Achieving Success 17:16 Finding Purpose: Aligning with Your Values 21:23 Navigating the Hustle: Understanding Rhythm and Recovery 27:38 Connecting with Your Body and Mind 28:10 Understanding Your Energy Rhythms 31:53 The Importance of Identity in Leadership 34:20 Articulating Vision and Purpose 39:08 Heart-Brain Coherence in Leadership 44:58 The Balance of Giving and Receiving in Leadership Tim Adams https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachadams/ https://www.coachtimadams.com/ Contact Liesl Bernard: liesl@leadingforwellness.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/ www.leadingforwellness.com
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
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
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
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.
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Get key takeaways from Leading For Wellness in a 5-minute read.
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
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.
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.
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by Liesl Bernard.
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts. Upgrade to Pro for 15, or Premium for 50. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
Leading For Wellness publishes biweekly. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
Leading For Wellness covers topics including Business, Careers. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.