by: Hannah Shraim ’20, Dingman Center Marketing Intern
If you haven’t already heard, Seth Goldman is coming to campus as part of our Robert G. Hisaoka Speaker Series. Goldman is best known for co-founding Honest Tea. You know, Honest Tea — the company that Coca-Cola paid $43 million for.
There’s a lot of hype surrounding this event as the industry pioneer is set to share his experiences as a socially conscious entrepreneur. In light of this, we wanted to share five fast facts about Goldman to get you ready for conversation.
Seth Goldman has a background in government
Goldman graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in government from Harvard University in 1987. Before his bustling career as an entrepreneur, he worked on Michael Dukakis’ presidential campaign. After attempting to solve social issues through a governmental lens, he eventually switched to business with the same goal in mind.
He met his wife teaching English in Moscow
Upon graduating from Harvard, Goldman taught English in Beijing for one year and Moscow for another. Julie Farkas happened to be in Moscow while Goldman was teaching. The rest is history. Farkas graduated from the University of Virginia and helped launched Jobs Have Priority, an organization that helps homeless communities transition to working life.
He co-founded Honest Tea with his school professor
Goldman attended the Yale School of Management from 1993 to 1995. He and his professor Barry Nalebuff always had interesting classroom discussions. Goldman often challenged the ideas Nalebuff presented, which Nalebuff found refreshing. They stayed in touch after Goldman graduated, and when the idea for Honest Tea came to mind, Goldman sought a partnership with his longtime friend.
He and his family are vegetarians
One of Goldman’s inspirations for starting Honest Tea surrounded his healthy lifestyle. He ran cross country in college, and as he finished a run one day in New York City, he longed for a refreshing drink. To his dismay, the options presented to him were far too sugary. That’s when it hit him — why not create a drink made with organic, fresh ingredients? Even further, why not create a brand grounded in Fair Trade principles and social value? Goldman did both!
He is Executive Chair of the Board at Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat is a company that aims to provide plant based alternatives to traditional meat options. Their products simulate beef, chicken, and pork sausage. As a vegetarian, Goldman was once again dissatisfied with the veggie burger options on the market. In his current role, Goldman is able to aid in the initiative of bringing healthier food alternatives to mainstream markets. Beyond Meat food options can be found at Target, Giant, and even Dunkin’ Donuts.
So there you have it, five fast facts about Seth Goldman. We’ll see you on October 30 at Gildenhorn Recital Hall, The Clarice, at 5:00 p.m. for more!