Allison and Stephen Ellsworth’s entrepreneurial journey took a remarkable turn when they built Poppi from the ground up and subsequently sold it to PepsiCo for nearly $2 billion last year. This week, the couple shared insights with Business Insider, highlighting the sacrifices and risks they embraced while navigating their path to success, particularly focusing on how they intend to manage their newfound wealth to ensure their children remain grounded.
The genesis of Poppi traces back to 2016 when Allison began experimenting with home remedies to alleviate her stomach issues and skin problems. Unsatisfied with the taste of apple cider vinegar, she innovatively mixed it with sparkling water and fresh fruit, resulting in what she dubbed Mother Beverage. Seeking to bring her creation to market, she enlisted Stephen’s support, and together they began selling their beverages at local farmers’ markets. Their persistence paid off when a Whole Foods buyer took notice, leading to their products being stocked in the premium grocery chain.
The couple attributed their leap of faith to their unwavering belief in Allison’s wellness product, complemented by positive customer feedback and the Whole Foods endorsement. That confidence propelled them to invest everything into their business, maxing out credit cards, borrowing funds, and even opting to sell one of their cars to secure necessary supplies.
In the early days, survival was a constant challenge. They found themselves frequently negotiating with suppliers to extend payment deadlines. Their big break came in 2018 when they pitched on “Shark Tank,” which secured them a $400,000 investment from renowned marketing expert Rohan Oza. The exposure, funding, and mentorship transformed their venture, culminating in a significant rebranding effort in 2020, when the company was renamed Poppi, focusing on prebiotic sodas.
However, the journey was not without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about various obstacles, including cash flow problems and supplier contract terminations. To navigate these difficulties, the company had to secure an additional $25 million in funding. Amidst the turmoil, the unexpected growth led the couple to overhaul their business strategies completely.
By 2024, Poppi experienced remarkable growth, amassing over $500 million in annual sales, leading to its acquisition by PepsiCo for $1.95 billion. Throughout their entrepreneurial journey, the couple made significant personal sacrifices, including quitting their jobs and postponing personal milestones, all in a bid to focus on building their brand and family legacy.
As they grappled with the intense demands of the business, Allison reflected on the lack of work-life balance they experienced early on. The couple consciously decided to prioritize the needs of their family and business, accepting that short-term sacrifices would pave the way for long-term success. Despite feelings of “mom guilt” over the hours invested in Poppi, Allison expressed pride in how her children perceive her as a successful businesswoman.
With their new wealth, the couple adopted a cautious approach to spending. They recently purchased a larger home and new vehicles but aim to prioritize family experiences over material possessions. This summer, they plan to avoid extravagant vacations, instead opting for a low-key family retreat in Wyoming.
Determined to instill strong values in their children, the Ellsworths emphasize hard work and kindness. They expect their kids to contribute to household chores and pursue jobs in their future. Stephen, drawing from his conservative upbringing, is eager to teach his children a different perspective on money management, focusing on the importance of leveraging wealth to create opportunities rather than simply saving.
Looking toward the future, the couple has largely stepped back from Poppi post-acquisition. Although they initially enjoyed a period of leisure, both realized they were too young to retire and missed the thrill of entrepreneurial endeavors. As they prepare to embark on a new venture, they plan to leverage the knowledge and insights gained from building Poppi, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their entrepreneurial journey.
