Lisa Li Of The Qi: The Future Is Flowers

Hosted by Abena Anim-Somuah
Produced by Kerry Diamond and Catherine Baker
Edited by Jenna Sadhu
Recorded at CityVox Studios in NYC

This week, we look into the future with Lisa Li, founder of The Qi, a wellness brand specializing in single-origin, whole-flower tea. After a decade in fashion, Lisa was burned out and looking for a new path. The idea for The Qi came to her when she learned about the connection between energy and flowers while studying qi gong, a practice that combines breathing, meditation, and movement. 

Lisa joins host Abena Anim-Somuah to talk about the aesthetics and identity of The Qi, supply chain transparency, how bootstrapping her brand has forced her to be “resourceful, scrappy, and creative,” and why she’d like to collaborate with wellness-focused hotels. Don’t miss Lisa’s voicemail to her future self and Future Flash Five predictions. 

Thank you to Kerrygold and Walmart for supporting our show. Learn more about Kerrygold butter & cheese here and about Walmart’s annual Open Call program here. 

The Future Of Food Is You is a production of The Cherry Bombe Podcast Network. Check cherrybombe.com for show transcripts. Who do you think is the Future of Food? Nominate them here!

More on Lisa: Instagram, The Qi, website

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