When Matthew O’Hayer Knew Vital Farms Would Change the Industry

What does it take to build over 50 companies while staying true to purpose-driven business principles?

For Matthew O’Hayer, entrepreneurship isn’t just about business success—it’s about passion, purpose, and making a meaningful impact. Matt shares how a simple observation on his farm—watching free-range chickens thrive—led to the creation of a company that prioritizes humane treatment, ethical sourcing, and superior-quality eggs at Vital Farms.

He dives into the challenges of scaling a purpose-driven business, the importance of trust with stakeholders, and how conscious capitalism has shaped his approach to leadership. Beyond business, Matt opens up about his diverse interests, from sailing to flying, and the mindset that fuels his entrepreneurial drive. The conversation also touches on the future of food, conscious consumerism, and what it takes to build a lasting, impact-driven company.

**

If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience.

Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.

For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.com

This show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.

Thank you for your support!

- Timothy & Raj

Time Stamps

00:00 Building Trust and Reputation

01:06 Meet Matthew O'Hayer: Serial Entrepreneur

03:04 The Birth of Vital Farms

08:01 Challenges and Successes in the Egg Industry

29:57 Learning on the Job: The Early Days

30:45 Navigating the Egg Market

33:17 The Food System and Conscious Capitalism

37:55 Building Trust with Consumers

41:46 Future Vision and Personal Insights