This week, on the podcast, host Eva Hartling speaks with Emily O’Brien, founder of Comeback Snacks. Emily’s unlikely journey into the popcorn business began in 2018 while serving time at a federal prison for drug smuggling. Despite being behind bars, she managed to produce a product and support its launch, making it a successful business. Emily transformed an obstacle into an opportunity. The idea for a popcorn brand came to her while watching the 2018 Super Bowl when she was enjoying the flavoured popcorn her fellow inmates had created. Emily used her network outside of prison to conduct market research on the popcorn industry. A few months later, her brand became a viable business, with approval from Correctional Service Canada. When Emily was released from custody in December 2018, she was ready to take her business to the next level, and today, Comeback Snacks line of products is available in close to 1,000 stores throughout Canada. Where possible, Comeback Snacks hires people with criminal backgrounds or helps them find work through their partners. As well, the company aims to provide a portion of profits to organizations focused on reintegration programs and prison reform.

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