Ben Goodwin

Ben Goodwin, co-founder and CEO of Olipop, has become a transformative figure in the beverage industry by pioneering gut-healthy sodas. Growing up on the "standard American diet," Goodwin struggled with being overweight, anxious, and generally unhappy in his youth. His life took a dramatic turn at the age of 15 when he adopted a vegetarian lifestyle. The dietary change brought improvements in his emotional stability and cognitive function, sparking his enduring interest in the microbiome's role in digestion, immune health, and the nervous system.

Driven by this passion, Goodwin dropped out of college to pursue a career in beverage formulation. In 2008, he launched his first venture, Obi Probiotic Soda, a probiotic water kefir drink rooted in the belief that health is fundamental to sustainable well-being. This early venture laid the groundwork Olipop.

By 2023, Goodwin's Olipop brand had taken the market by storm, becoming a viral sensation on TikTok and a staple on supermarket shelves. Olipop's innovative approach to soda, which incorporates prebiotics, fiber, and botanicals, positions it as a healthier alternative to traditional soft drinks. The brand's rapid ascent is reflected in its financial performance, with projected revenues exceeding $200 million for the year.