From Bankrupt to a $60M Beverage Business
"Today is a beautiful day filled with opportunity and potential"
During this episode on the Scale Your Agency Podcast, I sat down with Trent Dyrsmid. We discuss the difficulties of growing a business, especially in the beverage industry, the importance of differentiating your product and hiring the right people.
The Lines Between Beer, Soda, and Spirits are Blurring as Beverage Companies Seek Sales Growth
A 130% increase in ready-to-drink alcoholic seltzer beverages has compelled industry giants like Coca-Cola and Pepsi Co to enter the alcoholic beverage market as well. New kinds of hard seltzers seem to be released every week, such as Hard Mountain Dew or Topo Chico Hard Seltzers. Read on to see what this could mean for the competitive environment of the alcoholic beverage industry.
“If you really look closely, most overnight successes took a long time."
- Steve Jobs
U.S. News - Top Food Trends for 2022
Environmental sustainability is now one of the main purchase drivers for today’s consumers. Along with sustainable foods, consumers are also more interested than ever in food products that will promote our immunity, mental health, and digestive system. Check out this article for some new products to try out in 2022, including barley milk and plant-based charcuterie!
The Mountain is You: Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mystery
I talk a lot about the "victim mentality" and the dangers of falling into its trap. We are the ONLY ones who have the power to create the life we want. While no book, podcast or article can magically make that happen, this book sure is a great place to start!
Bonus: 2022 Goal Setting
I'm sure many of you have huge goals for this upcoming year, both personally and professionally. But what are your plans to ensure you reach those goals? Check out this awesome 2 part video on goal setting from our friends over at Procabulary.
Part 1: Getting Unstuck
Part 2: The Enlifted Goal Setting Method
From Bankrupt to a $60M Beverage Business “Today is a beautiful day filled with opportunity and potential” During this episode on the Scale Your Agency Podcast, I sat down with Trent Dyrsmid. We discuss the difficulties of growing a business, especially in the beverage industry, the importance of differentiating your product and hiring the right […]
Prior to Wodapalooza, FITAID held a photoshoot with CrossFitter, Kelsey Kiel. Being that it was her first competition in almost 2 years, we thought we would catch up with her and see what she has been up to. Our manager of social, Dion, was able to get some behind the scenes content as well as ask Kelsey some interesting questions. Check out our Q&A brought to you by our Master of Social, Dion. Also, give our Instagram page, @fitaid, a follow to stay up to date with everything FITAID.
Being that this is your first competition in almost 2 years, why did it take you so long to come back to crossfit?
Kelsey: “I took almost a full year off from doing anything crossfit to bobsled and the last competition I did was in February of 2020. I took a lot of time off to focus on bobsledding. I missed Crossfit though so I decided to come back.”
What intrigued you the most about bobsledding?
Kelsey: “It was a different opportunity. They asked if i wanted to see if i’d be good at the sport so i decided to give it a go. I had a feeling that crossfit wasn't going anywhere but the opportunity to try and make an Olympic team was something I wanted to try to give a shot. They said it was going to be hard to do that in less than a year, and it was hard to do, and i didn't do it, so here i am back in the sport that i really love.”
What are you excited about the most for WZA?
Kelsey: “I feel like I am most excited to just get back out there. I get to compete with my best friend on my team. All three of us are just out to have fun. I've missed it. When they say WZA is a celebration of fitness, that's exactly what it is. There's nothing like it.”
What do you miss most about competition?
Kelsey: “The sport in general. Like when you're training for a very specific reason, to medal at the olympics, it's very sport specific. But with Corssfit, everyday in the gym is such a process and I missed that when I was training for bobsledding. Everyday im looking forward to going to the gym again and I am having more fun than i feel like i've ever had doing CrossFit. I'm just doing it for myself and enjoying every moment.”
Has this process of getting back into CrossFit brought you reminders of why you started CrossFit ?
Kelsey: “If someone told me I would be doing this (a photoshoot) when I started, I would have never in a million years believed you. I think that taking the year off and trying a different sport, trying something new, made me realize what I miss about this sport. It really took me back to the roots, the reason I started competing in the first place. I think I lost myself a little bit there. Not necessarily doing it for the wrong reason but it became a chore. Taking some time off and coming back makes it seem like a different environment and I've been having so much fun with it.”
What's the most frustrating thing about a photo shoot? Doing the same thing over and over again? Or just waiting for a long time?
Kelsey: “The lack of snacks that I brought HAHA”
How many times have you had to fake drink a FITAID?
Kelsey: “Too many to count!” (Proceeds to fake drink a FITAID)
Thin crust pizza or deep dish pizza?
Kelsey: “Thin crust because I just don't like deep dish pizza. I feel like it's very saucy.”
If you had to choose one, Outback Steakhouse or CheeseCake Factory?
Kelsey: “Outback Steakhouse because I really like Steak even though Cheesecake Factory has the biggest menu I have ever seen in my life. It’s like a book.”
Be sure to check our other blog posts for more exclusive interviews, WZA Competition content, and everything LIFEAID!
Prior to Wodapalooza, FITAID held a photoshoot with CrossFitter, Kelsey Kiel. Being that it was her first competition in almost 2 years, we thought we would catch up with her and see what she has been up to. Our manager of social, Dion, was able to get some behind the scenes content as well as […]
“Party in the city where the heat is on, All night, on the beach till the break of dawn, Welcome to Miami, Bienvenidos a Miami!” Pack your bags and don't forget your swimsuit. For the first event of 2022, the LIFEAID team is headed to Miami for Wodapalooza (WZA). What started in 2012 as a grassroots 1-day event with 145 athletes and 500 spectators, has now grown into the world’s premier Functional Fitness Festival. Today, this event spans 4 days on Miami’s Bayfront Park and brings together thousands of athletes, spectators, and fitness enthusiasts.
If you plan on making the trip to Miami, here is what you can plan for. There will be a weightlifting faceoff, WZA Strong which is a hybrid competition of Strongman and functional fitness movements, and the Gauntlet which is an exciting and fast race through three workouts in one hour (!!!). Also, for spectators, there will be one of the largest collections of functional fitness vendors and exhibitors as well as spectator workouts and seminars.
This year, several of our FITAID sponsored athletes will be competing at 2022 WZA. Those competing will include Sara Sigmundsdóttir, Guilherme “Gui” Malheiros, Kelsey Kiel, James Newburry, Jay Crouch, and Ellie Turner. If you are going to this event, make sure you cheer extra loud for our athletes and be on the lookout for some of our team members handing out FITAID merch and FITAID GO!
“Party in the city where the heat is on, All night, on the beach till the break of dawn, Welcome to Miami, Bienvenidos a Miami!” Pack your bags and don’t forget your swimsuit. For the first event of 2022, the LIFEAID team is headed to Miami for Wodapalooza (WZA). What started in 2012 as a […]
The Indicator podcast by Planet Monkey - The toymakers’ (supply chain) nightmare before Christmas
Considered one of the best podcasts available today, the Indicator takes on a unique issue in the business world and breaks it down in 10 minutes or less. This episode explains the supply chain delays and their effect on Christmas shopping patterns this year. With many stores not receiving their holiday shipments, many were wondering what kind of presents will go under their Christmas tree.
New Eye Drops Offer an Alternative to Glasses
Nope, it’s not science fiction. This week the FDA approved eye drops that can improve your vision. The drops begin working in fifteen minutes and can improve eyesight for up to 10 hours! Read on to see how they work.
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
- Nelson Mandela
Deep Breathing: A Complete Guide to the Relaxation Technique
As humans, we breathe in and out over 22,000 times a day. Concentrating on just a few deep breaths every day can actually relieve stress, alleviate pain, and increase your energy levels. Check out this great article from Everyday Health for a complete guide to deep breathing.
Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness It
Voted one of Amazon’s best books of the year, Chatter reveals the psychology of our inner voice and allows us to better listen and understand ourselves. There is more to our silent conversations than we think, learn how to take advantage of this awesome part of you.
The Indicator podcast by Planet Monkey – The toymakers’ (supply chain) nightmare before Christmas Considered one of the best podcasts available today, the Indicator takes on a unique issue in the business world and breaks it down in 10 minutes or less. This episode explains the supply chain delays and their effect on Christmas shopping […]
The Goal Digger Podcast - The Science of Happiness at Work
In this podcast, host Jenna Kutcher speaks with Jenn Lim, the CEO of Delivering Happiness, a company dedicated to helping organizations improve their company culture. Kutcher and Lim explain what it takes to create a great work environment and company culture, including steps you can take to truly enjoy your time at work.
Why Emotionally Intelligent Leaders Follow the Rule of Zero Off-Hours
A brief exploration of the importance of balancing work and home life, this article explains why we shouldn’t constantly check our emails and how expecting everyone to be available at all times is a recipe for burnout. Here’s what you can do instead.
“To me, business isn’t about wearing suits or pleasing stockholders. It’s about being true to yourself, your ideas and focusing on the essentials."
- Sir Richard Branson
A Penny for Your Squats?
A study published in Nature tested over 50 motivational programs and their effects on how often we exercise. After analyzing the results of incentives like paying users to workout, it turns out that rest may be the key factor that keeps us going back to the gym.
You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life
Described as being “Packed with humor, inspiration, and advice”, You Are a Badass is currently the number one New York Times best-selling self-help book. Read through these real life stories, how-to guides, and sage advice, and be on your way to living an awesome life.
The Goal Digger Podcast – The Science of Happiness at Work In this podcast, host Jenna Kutcher speaks with Jenn Lim, the CEO of Delivering Happiness, a company dedicated to helping organizations improve their company culture. Kutcher and Lim explain what it takes to create a great work environment and company culture, including steps you […]
Empire Podcast - Build a Powerful Existence
There are no shortcuts, it's all about the long game. Every day you have a choice of what you put in your body, directly resulting in how you show up in the world. Check out this interview I did with Bedros Keuilian to hear more about LIFEAID, how to avoid the "victim" role and recognize your own power.
How Exercise Affects your Appetite
Does exercising regularly make us hungrier or does it help curb our appetites? The answer - Both. This article is an interesting read, discussing research on the relationship between burning calories and consuming them.
“Wherever you are, be all there."
- Jim Elliot
Mentor Nation - Chase your Impossible Dream
Last month, I sat down with John Abbas, host of the Mentor Nation Podcast, to discuss how we started LIFEAID with no money and no experience. Listen to find out how being creative gave us our edge to compete with giants like Red Bull and find success in an industry with a 99% failure rate. This is the story of how we chased our impossible dream.
Are Energy Drinks Really that Bad?
Not all energy drinks are created equal. This article discusses everything you should look out for when purchasing caffeinated drinks, including sweeteners, added coloring and flavoring, and heavy amounts of caffeine. Fortunately, all of LIFEAID’s blends are made with the highest attention to wellness, with natural caffeine from green tea, vitamins, and zero added colors or flavors.
Your Next Five Moves - Master the Art of Business Strategy
This Wallstreet Journal Bestseller by Patrick Bet-David focuses on improving our clarity, so we can better analyze our situation and where we would like to improve. Patrick Bet-David discusses strategies for improvement and growth, as well as how to build the perfect team. Finally, this book offers insight into the power of leverage and its different applications.
Empire Podcast – Build a Powerful Existence There are no shortcuts, it’s all about the long game. Every day you have a choice of what you put in your body, directly resulting in how you show up in the world. Check out this interview I did with Bedros Keuilian to hear more about LIFEAID, how […]
Life of the Beverage Industry
In a market as crowded as the beverage industry, creating a brand new company from scratch involves a whole lot of creativity, strategic planning, and a little bit of luck. LIFEAID started with an idea that has turned into not only a great product, but an opportunity to impact thousands of lives. Learn more in this conversation between myself and Matt Beaudreau.
The 10 Healthiest New Year's Resolutions You Can Make
It's almost that time! A fresh year, a fresh start and a chance to set new intentions. As with any habit, it's essential to start small and be realistic. Wake up 10 minutes earlier, go for a daily 10 minute walk, or just picking up a book before bed instead of your phone. What are your 2022 New Year's Resolutions? Let me know on Instagram @aaronhinde
“All problems are illusions of the mind."
- Eckhart Tolle
Does High Intensity Exercise Affect Our Hearts? Minds? Life Spans? Waistlines?
Exercising is definitely not a one-size-fits-all. And at the end of the day, moving your body in a way that works for you is most important. But how does our body tend to respond to different types of workouts? In this article, Gretchen Reynolds analyzes how effective High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is and how it impacts our health.
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking
While my day job revolves around developing high-quality beverages, after hours I've been known to spend some time in the kitchen. At LIFEAID we know how essential it is to put good stuff in your body, and cooking food yourself is a great way to start. In this book, Samin Nosrat teaches us how to cook healthy and flavorful meals from instinct, instead of following a recipe step by step.
Life of the Beverage Industry In a market as crowded as the beverage industry, creating a brand new company from scratch involves a whole lot of creativity, strategic planning, and a little bit of luck. LIFEAID started with an idea that has turned into not only a great product, but an opportunity to impact thousands […]
Glam & Grow Podcast
How do you bring an idea to life? Especially when that idea is entering an already overcrowded beverage space? Find out how we created the functional beverage concept, with Takara Sewitt.
The Emotional Push-Up
Mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness. But how can we make the two work together? Olivia Bowser founded Liberate, a program that “takes what we love from fitness classes and uses it to focus on strengthening the mind”.
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act but a habit.”
—Aristotle
7 Surprising Benefits of Exercise
We all know exercise is good for us, but why? This article goes through seven key benefits of exercise. Read on for some motivation to break a sweat!
The Gifts of Imperfection
The world would be too boring if people could attain perfection. Brene Brown, Research Professor at the University of Houston, celebrates our imperfections in her most recent book. Brown helps us learn how to change the things we can, and accept the things we can’t.
Glam & Grow Podcast How do you bring an idea to life? Especially when that idea is entering an already overcrowded beverage space? Find out how we created the functional beverage concept, with Takara Sewitt. Listen now… The Emotional Push-Up Mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness. But how can we make the […]
As we are less than a week away from Christmas, it is only right to truly get into the holiday spirit. The LIFEAID team has made a list of their favorite holiday songs and best believe they are checking it twice. If you are in charge of the aux this year at your company's Christmas party or the family holiday party, the LIFEAID team has you covered. Christmas songs last forever and the list below is proof of that. Christmas hits of the 50’s and 60’s can still be played this week at your holiday parties - everyone loves a classic! So sit back, relax, and enjoy these holiday tunes that will sure enough get you in the holiday spirit.
“White Christmas” (1954) - The Drifters
“Dominick The Donkey” (1960) - Lou Monte
“Last Christmas” (1984) - Wham
“Baby It’s Cold Outside feat. Sofia Reyes” (2016) - Brett Elredge
“This Christmas” (1998) - NSYNC
“Christmas Don’t Be Late” (1959) - The Chipmunks
“Cuddle Up, Cozy Down Christmas feat. Michael Bublé” (2020) - Dolly Parton
“Won’t Be Home For Christmas” (2005) - Blink 182
“White Christmas” (2019) - A.Skillz
“This Christmas” (2007) - Chris Brown
“Have yourself A Merry Little Christmas” (2020) - Sam Smith
“Mistletoe” (2011) - Justin Bieber
“Little Saint Nick” (1964) - The Beach Boys
“Don't Shoot Me Santa” (2016) - The Killers
“Feliz Navidad” (1970) - José Feliciano
“Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer”
As we are less than a week away from Christmas, it is only right to truly get into the holiday spirit. The LIFEAID team has made a list of their favorite holiday songs and best believe they are checking it twice. If you are in charge of the aux this year at your company’s Christmas […]
Christmas is a time to spend with family and friends. A time when those family traditions come together. More importantly, Christmas is a time to sit back, relax, and unwrap those presents. However, have you ever thought about what those CrossFit athletes are up to on this holiday? Do they have their own traditions? And…do CrossFit athletes workout on Christmas day?! All year, these athletes are so dialed in on training and keeping their bodies in shape, that you may sometimes forget that CrossFit athletes are no different than you and me. Our friends over at Morning Chalk Up sat down with 6 of our LIFEAID athletes and found out what they are up to on Christmas.
Neal Maddox, Laura Horvath, Jacob Heppner, Cassidy Lance-McWherter, Gabi Migala, and Ellie Turner gave insight to what their Christmas day generally looks like. From spending time with family, to cooking all the family meals, and getting a training session in, all of these CrossFit athletes have their own special traditions that they do during the holidays. To read more about these traditions and their details, head over to the Morning Chalk Up. The url for this specific article will be linked below.
For everything CrossFit, make sure you are following Morning Chalk Up. Become a member of the site so you do not miss out on the fittest news in CrossFit around the world!
Christmas is a time to spend with family and friends. A time when those family traditions come together. More importantly, Christmas is a time to sit back, relax, and unwrap those presents. However, have you ever thought about what those CrossFit athletes are up to on this holiday? Do they have their own traditions? And…do […]