How I Built This with Guy Raz Nature’s Path: Arran and Ratana Stephens
May 23, 2022
Arran and Ratana Stephens, co-founders of Nature’s Path, discuss their near 40-year journey in the organic cereal industry. Arran shares his vision for starting with Manna bread mixed in a bathtub, while Ratana provides insight into managing the financial side of their success. They reveal the challenges of transitioning from local products to national distribution, the emotional toll of rapid growth, and the inspiration behind their popular Love Crunch granola. Their story illustrates how complementary skills and shared values helped them thrive both in business and marriage.
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Spiritual Journey and Restaurant Inspiration
- Arran Stephens' spiritual journey led him to India in 1967, where he spent seven months with his mentor.
- Inspired by his time there, he decided to open a vegetarian restaurant in Vancouver.
Arran's Connection to India
- On arriving in India, Arran felt a profound connection to the country, describing it as feeling like a mother.
- He immersed himself in the culture, learning the language and wearing Indian clothes.
Arranged Marriage
- Arran and Ratna had an arranged marriage in India in 1969 after a brief meeting.
- They were both students of the same spiritual leader, which formed their initial connection.