INSPIRED IMPACT is an ongoing blog series that gives voice to purpose-driven brands and passionate business leaders and entrepreneurs who are making an impact in their communities and industries.
Lindsay Karson is the Founder/CEO of Cows Gone. Follow her on LinkedIn and learn more about and follow Cows Gone on Facebook and at www.cowsgone.com.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
Cows Gone makes delicious frozen desserts that are just like ice cream… only better! Our creamy frozen treats deliver the full ice cream experience – taste, texture, indulgence and fun while also being free of dairy, gluten, soy and eggs.
WHY DO YOU DO IT?
My lifelong obsession with ice cream came to a screeching halt when I developed an intolerance to dairy and I was so disappointed with the dairy-free alternatives! They did not satisfy my cravings. Instead I felt left out, forced to consume a “less-than” alternative. So I created Cows Gone.
Cows Gone has since grown to embrace healthy and compassionate living by making plant-based desserts that are accessible, delicious, indulgent and fun!
WHAT IMPACT ARE YOU MAKING?
Plant-based = Planet-based! By providing a delicious ice cream experience with a product that has a smaller carbon footprint and doesn’t exploit animals, we are providing consumers with a way to live healthier, more compassionate lives.
WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU TO MAKE THIS IMPACT?
Life inspires me! There is so much beauty and joy in the world. Food can transform. Once I cut dairy and gluten out of my diet I came out of a fog and a deep sense of well being settled over me. And I didn’t even know I was in a fog until I came out of it! Every person has a right to health and happiness. I am inspired by the harmony of life and by helping others to “come out of the fog.” I am also inspired by fierce, fearless and courageous women. I love the word “courageous” – it comes from the root “cour” which means HEART. To be courageous is to lead with your heart.
WHAT IS (OR HAS BEEN) YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE?
The biggest challenge is managing the stress of an emerging business while also remembering to take time for self-care. It can be very tempting to sacrifice one’s health for the sake of business, and I still struggle with a “work, work, work” mindset. But I also know that when I take time to rest, eat right, meditate and pamper myself, I slide into a flow. The magic is in the flow.
WHAT WORDS OF ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER LEADERS WHO ARE LOOKING TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
I firmly believe the biggest impact we can have is to be happy. Stress can make us small, it can cause negative thinking, jealousy or cause a tendency to be controlling. That’s why self care is essential. Melt the stress and open to joy. When we commit to joy and positivity – those vibes are contagious. It seems simple but it is so powerful!
HOW CAN OTHERS SUPPORT YOU OR YOUR CAUSE?
Eat more plant-based foods. Be nice. Be happy. Buy Cows Gone. Also we are always looking for bright people to join our team – advisers, consultants, investors, employees. If you are passionate about plant-based foods, love ice cream and want to get involved, contact us!