In Founder Focus we introduce entrepreneurs and change-makers working on innovative startups, social enterprises and SME’s around Aotearoa New Zealand.
At a glance
Founder: Carl Meyer
Business: Bio Gold
Founded: 2019
HQ: Bay of Plenty
Can you tell us a bit about your business?
Our company produces 100% New Zealand made natural health products to supercharge energy levels, strength, libido, hormonal balance, sports performance and more.
Our special ingredient is pine pollen, an incredible herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 3000+ years.
A special fact about pine pollen is that it’s the #1 most potent plant-based source of testosterone on the planet. However It’s not just for gym goers and ageing-men (though – they do absolutely love it), it’s also for men and women looking for health support in a range of areas that are related to hormonal health, which affects all systems of the body.
My reason initially for starting the company was to strengthen and diversify New Zealand’s natural product industry and make use of a wasted, (yet valuable) resource that otherwise blows away in the wind. However, after receiving five-star reviews and testimonials on our early products – I had a profound personal reaction. People were having their lives changed. People were healing. Pine pollen was working its magic and allowing people to experience a greater quality of life and health. It moved me emotionally as I realised, truly, that Bio Gold is a vehicle for service to others. To improve people’s health and wellbeing, naturally. That’s what now drives me and is at the core of our company and everything we do.
What’s the backstory for your business idea?
I initially came across pine pollen in a book in Wellington City Central Library. I used to go to the library every week and read books about natural health, herbs, and plants. When I read about pine pollen, I was mindblown! It’s incredible stuff and has been studied in depth by scientists and biologists.
I have a science degree in biology and environmental science from Victoria University of Wellington. After graduating I got a job with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), which is where I got interested in land use, exports, and combining that with my passion for natural health.
What programmes, learning or mentoring, or resources have been of assistance so far?
Top resources have been:
- Direct feedback, criticisms & suggestions from experienced entrepreneurs & investors
- Steve Blank’s free video course on how to build a startup
- Learning from all the mistakes I made in my first startup
- Getting a coach to work on myself as a founder
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