Kristen Dunning Transformed a Personal Struggle into Shark Tank Success With Gently Soap

September 30, 2024

“Being an entrepreneur means being a role model, the person I wish I saw when I was younger.”

Kristen Dunning is the founder of Gently Soap, a brand that crafts pure and sustainable herbal remedies that every body can use. Inspired by a battle with eczema, Kristen pioneered herbal research in college and Gently is a testament to her resilience, innovation, and the power of nature. Kristen’s story led her to ABC’s Shark Tank, where she secured a deal with fellow Entreprenista Candace Nelson, fueling her brand’s growth. Her mission now is to bring plant derived, skin safe products to all households. Tune in and hear what Kristen tells us about her childhood struggle with eczema and the impact it had on her confidence, the strategy she used to win multiple collegiate entrepreneurship pitch competitions, and the behind the scenes of her Shark Tank experience.

We talked about:

The lack of eczema-friendly products on the market (05:56)
Sourcing capital through UGA’s entrepreneurship program (16:01)
Kristen’s Shark Tank experience and advice for future contestants (21:17)
People are always willing to give business advice (37:02)
Kristen’s biggest business secret (39:18)

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