You hold a leadership role in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint. How does your faith intersect with your mission at Sunwarrior?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the Mormon Church, relies on lay ministers who volunteer their time. As an Area 70, I assist regional leaders in supporting communities, addressing their challenges, and helping individuals come closer to Christ. My responsibilities include organizing conferences and delivering messages often to thousands of members.
Interestingly, my work at Sunwarrior feels very similar. My role here isn’t about being a traditional boss but rather about creating an environment where my team finds joy in their work, which they can carry into their personal lives. I believe in enabling others to succeed and thrive, whether it’s through spiritual guidance on weekends or aligning systems and fostering purpose during the week. This alignment between faith and work is what makes both endeavors deeply fulfilling.
Sunwarrior operates within the context of addressing malnutrition and obesity, particularly in the U.S. What is the company’s mission, and how do your products address these issues?
At Sunwarrior, we believe that nature provides everything our bodies need. Over time, modern diets have stripped away essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, leading to a host of health problems. Many health issues attributed to aging or genetics are often the result of long-term nutritional deficiencies.
Our mission is to help people live better lives by providing high-quality, plant-based products. We don’t see other natural food brands as competitors; our real competition is highly processed foods that have been denatured of its beneficial nutrients., We aim to educate consumers about nutrition and create products that fill the gaps in their diets without using synthetic vitamins or fillers. Our products are designed to offer the best of what nature has to offer in a form that is convenient and accessible.
Do you believe the modern lifestyle, especially in places like the U.S., is at the root of the health crisis we’re facing?
Over the past 30 years, the rise in health awareness is largely due to the availability of information. Social media and research have made it clear that the choices we make in our youth have significant consequences later in life. Unfortunately, while we’re the most informed generation, we’re also the most confused. Contradictory trends about diet and nutrition make it difficult for people to know what to trust.
At Sunwarrior, we cut through the noise by focusing on what nature provides. Our products deliver natural, nutrient-dense ingredients that the body can easily absorb. For example, swapping out a sugary soda for one of our hydration products can make a noticeable difference in energy levels and overall well-being. Convenience is important, and we believe nature’s solutions can also be made convenient without sacrificing quality.
You’ve described spirituality and physical health as interconnected. Could you expand on this perspective?
I see spirituality and physical health as deeply linked, though many people separate the two. Just as neglecting physical health has long-term consequences, so does neglecting spirituality. Our bodies and spirits are amazing creations with incredible resilience, but they require care and attention.
Paul’s words in Corinthians about the body being a holy temple resonate deeply. I interpret this as a call to honor both our physical and spiritual selves. Clean eating and clean thinking go hand in hand. Nourishing the body with wholesome food and nurturing the spirit with meaningful connections with a higher Being and and purpose are equally important in leading a fulfilling life.
You made the strategic decision to bring manufacturing and fulfillment in-house. How has this impacted product quality and customer satisfaction?
About 6 years ago, we decided to bring manufacturing in-house after our primary contract manufacturer shifted focus. This decision allowed us to gain complete control over our supply chain, from sourcing raw ingredients to delivering finished products.
By managing production ourselves, we ensure the highest quality standards and minimize waste. Many contract manufacturers overproduce, leading to stale products. Since our products are natural and minimally processed, they are like fresh produce—time-sensitive and nutrient-dense. By controlling the entire process, we can provide customers with fresh, potent products while maintaining transparency about sourcing and sustainability.
If someone with an average diet wanted to improve their nutrition, which Sunwarrior products would you recommend, and why?
I’d recommend starting with two products: our Active Protein and Thermo Greens. Active Protein is a plant-based protein designed not only for athletes but for anyone. It includes prebiotics and probiotics to aid digestion and absorption, ensuring your body gets the fuel it needs for repair and rejuvenation. Unlike other sources of protein, it’s gentle on the stomach, so you won’t experience bloating.
Thermo Greens is another favorite. It combines thermogenic ingredients that boost your metabolism and provide a full serving of green vegetables. It helps burn fat while supplying essential vitamins and minerals. Together, these products address key nutritional gaps and support energy, digestion, and overall wellness.
You’ve emphasized the importance of accessibility. How are you working to make Sunwarrior products available to everyone?
Accessibility is central to our mission. Fifteen years ago, plant-based protein was a niche product available only in specialty health food stores. Today, you can find Sunwarrior products in grocery stores, drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, and major retailers like Walmart.
By expanding our distribution, we’re meeting people where they shop. This democratization of plant-based nutrition allows consumers to choose healthier options, such as a Sunwarrior protein snack over a sugary cereal or processed food. Additionally, our website ensures fast delivery, with most orders arriving within two days. We’re constantly striving to remove barriers and make high-quality nutrition accessible to all.
Do you see your mission at Sunwarrior as aligned with the spiritual idea of democratizing wellness for all?
I believe in making wellness accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. Paul’s words in Corinthians about there being no distinction between people resonate here. Our goal is to ensure that high-quality, plant-based nutrition is available to every man and woman, no matter where they live or what their income level is.
By placing our products in mainstream retail stores and maintaining affordable pricing, we’re breaking down barriers.
Wellness should not be a luxury but a universal right.
Our mission is to empower individuals to make healthier choices and lead better lives.
What motivates you personally in your work at Sunwarrior?
I’m driven by the knowledge that we’re making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s hearing from a customer who feels better after incorporating our products or seeing our team grow and thrive, it’s incredibly rewarding.
At the heart of it, our work is about service—both to the community and to the planet. By creating sustainable, natural products and educating people about health, we’re helping individuals achieve wellness while honoring the environment. It’s a mission that aligns perfectly with my values, and it’s what keeps me inspired every day.
