Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

I’m inspired by entrepreneurs who see opportunity where others see waste. My journey started when I noticed mountains of perfectly good apples going unused in orchards. That simple observation sparked the idea for BeeMindful Hunnie. I’m also inspired by the small farmers, chefs, and makers who prove every day that food can be innovative, sustainable, and incredibly delicious all at once.

How do you stay motivated?

Entrepreneurship is a roller coaster, so I stay motivated by focusing on impact. Every jar of BeeMindful Hunnie represents rescued food, a new way to think about sweetness, and proof that sustainability can scale. When customers tell me they’re using it in restaurants, cocktails, or family recipes, it reminds me why we started. Turning overlooked ingredients into something people love keeps the fire going.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d use the $25,000 to amplify the story behind BeeMindful Hunnie. Most people have never heard of bee-free honey or realized how much food goes to waste. With the right marketing and storytelling, we can change that. The funding would help us reach more consumers, support retail demos, and turn rescued apples into a movement people can taste.