Coworking with Hannah Lewis

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Hannah Lewis is CMO at Fermented Food Holdings, parent company of fermented food brands like Bubbies and Wildbrine.

How would you describe your job to someone who doesn’t work in retail? I am a steward of our portfolio of brands, tasked with sharing the legacy of a brand like Bubbies with consumers and connecting people over food that sparks conversation and connection.

One thing we can’t guess about your job from your LinkedIn profile? I can say the alphabet backwards.

What’s your favorite project you’ve worked on? I love the process of creating. Whether it is new innovation, new packaging, or a new brand completely, the art of building something that holds value for our consumers brings me joy. Creating the first new items from Bubbies kitchen—our new sweet chip flavors—has been a really awesome journey over the past year.

Which emerging retail trend are you most excited about this year, and why? Fermentation! I love that consumers are turning to food as medicine and understanding that what we eat can have a beneficial impact on how we live. The idea that natural foods can add more value than supplements or even in some cases medicine is truly a trend that can change the world.

What’s your go-to coffee order? Cold brew, heavy cream.

Worst piece of advice you’ve received? Turn a weakness into a strength. I think that we are happier and more productive when we use our natural strengths day in and day out. Work doesn't feel like work if you love it. It is good to pay attention to your weaknesses and blind spots and work to improve them, but a far better strategy for me has been to fuel those natural strengths.

What was your favorite retail product when you were 15, and what’s your favorite retail product now? Easy. Then: Carnation Instant Breakfast. Now: Bubbies Kosher Dill Pickles!