Faith Boyer on Food, Community, and Life with Ground Up
At Ground Up, we believe that empowering women is not just the mission behind our apprenticeship program. It is a value we see reflected in the community around us. The She's Empowered series spotlights women who are building purposeful careers, creating work that matters, and inspiring others along the way. This month we are sitting down with Faith, recipe blogger and creator behind our bestselling Brownie Batter nut butter!
Tell us about your journey. What inspired you to start Faith’s Fresh/Picnic Date?
In 2019 I found out that I was intolerant to gluten and dairy (on the morning of my birthday… what a cruel joke!) This not only forced me into the kitchen, but also forced me to get creative with it too. I didn't have much cooking experience before that, but immediately began cooking every single meal everyday. After about a year of doing this, I figured there would be people in the same boat as me, so I started posting my recipes online and the rest is history!
What was the inspiration behind Brownie Batter? How does this flavor reflect your personality, favorite foods, or memories?
Brownie Batter was one of my favorite “foods” growing up! I remember always licking the brownie batter bowls clean, so why not make it “healthy” and without the risk of salmonella? Yes please!
Running a business can be demanding! What are some daily habits or rituals that help you stay grounded and motivated?
I love a list! Without a daily to-do list, I will literally not get anything done.
At Ground Up, we're passionate about creating opportunities for women overcoming adversity. What causes or communities are closest to your heart?
The autism community is super close to my heart! I spent ages 15-22 working at a school for children and adults with autism. It was one of my favorite jobs I have ever had, and brought me so much joy.
What advice would you give to women who are looking to start a business, pursue a creative passion, or make a career change?
First off, do something you know you love! Doing something you truly love will keep you motivated, especially in the early days when starting a business can have a lot of forks in the road. It can also be super scary to make a big jump like that, but you’ve got to trust yourself. It’s your life at the end of the day, so follow your heart and your dreams!! It sounds cheesy, but it's true :)
We talk a lot about spreading good through yummy spreads like Brownie Batter and by directly giving back within our community. What does "spreading good" look like in your own day-to-day life?
I love to cook for people!! Making food for those I love is my favorite way to “spread good”, because who doesn't like getting a random batch of brownies? You can never go wrong.
What are your favorite ways to enjoy Ground Up nut butter?
On toast, or in a protein shake… Or by the spoonful of course
Rapid Fire Questions
Favorite Ground Up Flavor: Brownie Batter of course
Favorite Snack: Green olives
Current Obsession: My kindle!! I have been staying up until 4 am reading almost every night recently… its a bad habit, but I cant resist.
Go-To Productivity Tip: Make. A. List.
Best Career Advice You've Received: Keep going, and never give up!
Favorite Way to Spend a Saturday: Going to the farmers market, going on a walk, making a yummy treat, then getting takeout for dinner.
One Woman Everyone Should Know About: Michelle Obama!!
Inspired by Faith's story? At Ground Up, we are surrounded by women building something meaningful every day. Learn more about the women in our apprenticeship program and the mission behind every jar.
