| Tell us about your company: |
| TRUBAR is a radically real protein bar brand that’s breaking the mold of traditional wellness snacks. We make plant-based, low-sugar bars that taste like indulgent desserts — think “It’s Mint to Be Chip” or “Get in My Belly PB&J.” But TRUBAR isn’t just about bars — it’s about building a brand that celebrates authenticity, fun, and flavor without compromise. We’re female-founded, unapologetically bold, and growing fast in retail and online. |
| What inspired you to start your business? |
| I started TRUBAR out of frustration — I was tired of “health” foods that tasted like cardboard and were marketed with unrealistic standards. I wanted to create a snack that felt indulgent but was actually good for you — and one that spoke to women like me. I believed we deserved something better, something fun, something real. That belief turned into TRUBAR. |
| What are your proudest achievements so far? |
| There have been a lot of pinch-me moments — launching nationally in Costco, being featured in Forbes, and seeing people tag TRUBAR in their everyday lives. But what makes me most proud is building a team that truly believes in what we’re doing. We’ve gone from scrappy startup to a national brand with heart, hustle, and humor. |
| What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs: |
| Start before you’re ready. If you wait for the perfect moment, you’ll miss it. And surround yourself with people who believe in you, challenge you, and make you laugh — because the journey is intense, and your support system matters. Oh — and trust your gut. It knows. |
| Please share a memory or thought about your alma mater: |
| My alma mater gave me the foundation and fire to think big. I remember long nights, dreaming up business ideas that felt crazy at the time — and now I’m living one of them. It’s wild how those early sparks shape your whole path. |
Alumni Emporium 