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Building a Business with Heart: Mei-Yung Lee's Vision for Ageless Zen and Community Impact
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In this episode of the Maker-Manager Money Podcast, host Kyle Ariel Knowles welcomes Mei-Yung Lee, the president and CEO of Ageless Zen Incorporated. Mei shares her inspiring journey from her roots in Hong Kong, where she was influenced by her father's work as a herbal medicine doctor, to becoming an entrepreneur through acquisition.
Founded in 2016, Ageless Zen is a boutique manufacturer of premium natural skincare and supplement products. Mei discusses the company's unique business model, which integrates ancient wisdom with cutting-edge science to create effective health and beauty products. She also highlights the company's philanthropic efforts through the Ageless Zen Circle of Giving Foundation, which supports organizations like MetaViver, which are dedicated to funding research for metastatic breast cancer.
Key Takeaways:
- The Power of Integrating Ancient Wisdom with Modern Science
Mei's father inspired her to study herbal medicine, shaping her approach to creating natural skincare and supplement products. She emphasizes merging traditional knowledge with cutting-edge research to develop effective solutions. This integration benefits consumers and highlights the potential of combining different fields to innovate and create unique offerings. - Focus on Community and Philanthropy
One of the standout aspects of Ageless Zen is its commitment to giving back through the Ageless Zen Circle of Giving Foundation. Mei's vision is to create a self-funding model that supports schools and non-profits while providing consumers with high-quality products. This approach demonstrates that businesses can thrive while positively impacting their communities. It's a reminder that success is not just about profit; it's also about purpose. - Navigating Challenges in International Expansion
Mei candidly shared her experience expanding Ageless Zen internationally, highlighting the importance of establishing a strong domestic foundation before venturing abroad. Her advice to focus on what you do well before entering new markets is invaluable for entrepreneurs. It’s a lesson in patience and strategic growth that can help prevent common business scaling pitfalls.
Join us as Mei shares her insights on entrepreneurship, the challenges of expanding internationally, and the importance of community partnerships. Discover how Ageless Zen provides high-quality products and empowers consumers to support local charities and schools through purchases.
Key Topics:
- Mei's entrepreneurial journey and background
- The philosophy behind Ageless Zen's product development
- The importance of philanthropy in business
- Challenges and lessons learned in international expansion
- How consumers can support nonprofits through Ageless Zen
Links:
Chapters
1. Live Violence-Free Program (00:00:00)
2. Introduction to Ageless Zen and Mei-Yung Lee (00:00:00)
3. Mei's Background and Journey to Entrepreneurship (00:01:12)
4. Inspiration from Herbal Medicine and Family (00:02:07)
5. Acquisition of Research Company and Product Development (00:03:45)
6. Ageless Zen's Philanthropic Efforts and Circle of Giving Foundation (00:05:30)
7. Product Range: Skincare and Supplements (00:06:56)
8. Challenges of International Expansion (00:08:09)
9. Business Model Comparison with Competitors (00:09:46)
10. Mei's Previous Career and Transition to Business (00:10:36)
11. Community Partnerships and Nonprofit Involvement (00:12:56)
12. Kurandza Community Partnership Overview (00:14:06)
13. Live Violence Free Program (00:15:55)
14. Metavivor and Breast Cancer Research Support (00:16:06)
15. Ross Valley Women's League and Local Impact (00:17:33)
16. How the Donation Model Works (00:19:27)
17. Influencer Collaboration and Affiliate Marketing (00:20:37)
18. Favorite Products from Ageless Zen (00:22:31)
19. Highlighting the Night Cream Product (00:24:39)
20. Impact of Family on Mei's Life (00:25:47)
21. Emotional Reflections on Loss (00:27:49)
22. Importance of Friendships and Communication (00:29:54)
23. Lightning Round: Personal Preferences (00:31:25)
24. Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Rewards (00:33:41)
25. Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations (00:36:13)
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