Founder Spotlight: Keren Dorner (Smoodies)
Meet Keren Dorner
Smoodies are frozen, vegan-friendly smoothies crafted with premium, plant-based ingredients, and vibrant, global flavors. Simply blend for a quick, nutrient-packed treat that’s perfect for busy, health-conscious lifestyles.
Location:
Santa Ana, California, USA
When did you launch the business?
June 2017
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Startup Stage?
Smoodies is in the growth stage of its startup journey, having achieved major milestones like securing contracts with major retailers such as Costco and Sprouts Markets. The brand continues to expand its reach while staying true to its mission of delivering convenient, mood-inspired nutrition.
What led you to where you are today?
My journey began with a passion for healthy living and the determination to create something meaningful after navigating significant personal challenges as a single mom. Founding Smoodies after my divorce, I relied on creativity and hard work to turn an idea into a thriving business. Driven by a belief in the power of wholesome, convenient nutrition, I’ve built Smoodies to inspire others to live healthier, more balanced lives.
What do you wish you knew before embarking on your entrepreneurial journey?
I wish I knew better how to price the Smoodies from the start to ensure a larger profit margin. Understanding the true costs of production and balancing affordability with profitability would have made a significant difference early on. It’s a lesson that has shaped how I approach business decisions today.
What is the most difficult decision you've had to make regarding your business so far?
The most difficult decision I had to make was choosing to go all-in on Smoodies, knowing it meant taking financial risks and stepping into an industry I had no prior experience in. As a single mom, the stakes were high, but I believed in my vision and was determined to make it work. It was a leap of faith that ultimately defined my journey.
What can you help the VEGPRENEUR community with?
I can inspire other VEGPRENEURS by sharing my story of resilience, determination, and the challenges of building a business rooted in values like health and sustainability. I want them to know that starting a plant-based business doesn’t require a perfect blueprint, but rather a clear vision, a passion for the products, and a commitment to making a positive impact. By staying true to your mission, navigating setbacks, and learning along the way, you can create something meaningful that not only thrives but also contributes to a healthier, more conscious world.
How can the VEGPRENEUR community help you?
The VEGPRENEUR community can help me by connecting me with like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts who share my passion for plant-based businesses. I can access valuable insights, network with potential collaborators, and stay informed about trends in the plant-based economy. Additionally, the platform can provide mentorship, funding opportunities, and marketing support to help Smoodies grow and thrive within the plant-based business sector.
Fun fact about you:
A fun fact about me is that I love talking to people and making new connections. It’s one of the things that energizes me and helps me grow both personally and professionally!
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