About this episode
Building a Nutritional Brand: Jennifer Mo on the Midlife Entrepreneur PodcastIn this episode, Jo interviews Jennifer Mo, a nutritional formulations expert and co-founder of the award-winning brand Pura Collagen. Jennifer shares her extensive background in sports nutrition, anatomy, and bioscience, highlighting her journey from a college athlete to a professional working with elite athletes and specialized military personnel. She discusses the inception and growth of Pura Collagen, a brand focused on scientifically formulated collagen supplements for skin, hair, nails, and joint health. Jennifer's story emphasises the challenges and triumphs of building a business in midlife, including the importance of PR, regulatory compliance, and investing in your team. The conversation also explores the personal sacrifices and resilience required to succeed as an entrepreneur, while touching on themes like the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, work-life balance, and the value of mentorship. 00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast00:14 Meet Jennifer Mo: From Sports Nutrition to Pura Collagen01:39 Jennifer's Journey: From Aspiring Doctor to Nutritional Expert03:06 The Science Behind Supplements: Jennifer's Early Fascination06:19 From Retail to Military: Jennifer's Career Evolution10:23 Corporate Challenges and Personal Growth13:17 The Pandemic Pivot: Birth of Pura Collagen14:32 Building Pura Collagen: From Kitchen Experiments to Market23:08 Launching Pura Collagen: Overcoming Initial Hurdles26:42 Pura Collagen's Unique Approach and Market Strategy29:15 Understanding Product and Packaging29:48 Addressing Menopause with Innovative Products33:04 Challenges of Starting a Business in Midlife34:49 The Impact of the Pandemic on Career Choices37:01 The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Overcoming Fear38:37 The Importance of Mentorship and Team Building43:36 Navigating Financial Challenges and Growth44:52 Joining Forces with a Larger Brand46:39 Reflections on the Entrepreneurial Journey48:10 Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts Jennifer’s 3,2,1:3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:1. PR – to help get cut through in a crowded industry2. Legal experts to look at labelling and packaging information3. Team – especially investing relationships outside of the workplace 2 things you wish you’d done differently:1. Had a better understanding of equity and fund raising 2. Not allowed friends and family to invest – too much pressure, you don’t want to let them down.1 person you’d like to thank:1. CEO, 24 Hr Fitness, Mark Mastrov for understanding how to support women, for guidance and access to his knowledge. Also, Barry De Vilbiss, VP Retail a
