63. Carina Hamel: Fuel more fun with Bivo
In this episode, Gemma talks with Carina Hamel, a lifelong athlete, mother, and co-founder of Bivo drink bottles.
Carina shares the story behind Bivo and how she and her husband identified a gap in the market for non-plastic hydration solutions for athletes and everyday use. She discusses her journey from a career in footwear product development to starting her own business, the challenges of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and the importance of creating products that address real-world issues like minimizing microplastic exposure.
The conversation also touches on the personal joys and challenges of parenting, finding balance, and the importance of having fun and staying active with family.
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TRANSCRIPTION:
Innovations in Sports Hydration: An Interview with Carina Hamel, Co-Founder of Bivo Drink Bottles
Introduction
In a world where optimal performance and environmental consciousness are paramount, few innovations have struck a balance as well as Bivo Drink Bottles. I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Carina Hamel, co-founder of Bivo and lifelong athlete, to discuss her journey and the unique features of Bivo's stainless steel drink bottles. What follows is an insightful look into how Bivo is revolutionizing sports hydration and tackling the plastic problem one bottle at a time.
A Lifelong Athlete and Innovator
Carina Hamel isn't just an entrepreneur; she's been deeply embedded in the athletic world from a young age. As a cross-country ski racer and outdoor enthusiast, Carina has always been keenly interested in how products interact with our bodies. From her early days working in footwear product development for Keen Footwear, she honed her skills and gathered the insights necessary to branch out on her own.
"I was interested in product growing up and worked at an outdoor store. Being an athlete myself, it was fascinating to see how products interacted with one's body," Carina shared. Following her tenure at Keen, she started her own footwear design and development agency, which she ran successfully for ten years.
The Birth of Bivo
Carina's journey took a pivotal turn after the birth of her first daughter in 2018. Faced with the challenge of transitioning her daughter from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding, Carina was reluctant to use plastic bottles due to concerns about chemical leaching. She realized that every time she exercised, she was also drinking from plastic—an inconsistency she couldn't ignore.
It was during a cross-country skiing trip in Oregon that the idea for Bivo was born. "We quickly came home and started diving into design and development," Carina explained. "We noticed a gap in the market for non-plastic options, especially in the cycling community."
Innovative Design and Features
Bivo bottles are not only about eliminating plastic but also about enhancing the drinking experience. One of the primary challenges was to design a bottle that was easy to drink from and not too heavy. By collaborating with a third-party engineer who formerly worked at NASA, Bivo managed to create a high-flow system that makes drinking effortless and pleasant.
Carina elaborated on the process: "Most metal bottles have complex mechanisms, but we needed something simple, just like a regular sports bottle. Our system is fast and efficient, making hydration easier and more enjoyable."
Real-World Feedback
The real-world application and feedback have been overwhelmingly positive. Even though many assume that a metal bottle would be heavy and difficult to drink from, users quickly adapt and often prefer Bivo bottles over plastic alternatives. "I've personally found myself gravitating towards the Bivo bottle because it’s so easy to drink out of," I shared with Carina during our conversation. The insulating properties also make a significant difference, keeping beverages cold for extended periods, which is invaluable in hot climates.
Addressing the Microplastic Issue
Microplastics and their health impacts are an area of growing concern, and Bivo aims to offer a safer alternative. "There's been a lot of research recently showing the presence of microplastics in our food, water, and even in human bodies," Carina noted.
"It's not just about reducing plastic but understanding its impacts on our health. Studies have shown links to various diseases, and while more research is needed, minimizing exposure is crucial."
Balancing Athletics and Motherhood
Carina is not just an innovator but also a devoted mother. Discussing how she balances her career and family life, she admitted it’s a challenge but also a joy. "Sharing my love for the outdoors with my kids changes the dynamics, but it brings a new kind of joy and fulfillment."
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Mothers
For those considering a career shift or starting a new venture, Carina’s advice is simple: "Go for it. Don’t hesitate. Figure out the worst that can happen and know you’ll always find a solution."
Equally, she acknowledges the challenges of motherhood. "It's okay to talk about how hard it is. You need to prepare mentally and understand that the joys will change, but new and equally fulfilling experiences await."
Conclusion
Through this enlightening conversation, it’s clear that Carina Hamel embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience. Bivo Drink Bottles not only address the critical issue of plastic waste but also provide a superior hydration solution for athletes and everyday users alike.
As we concluded our chat, Carina left us with a simple yet profound mantra that sums up Bivo’s mission: “Fuel more fun.” In sport, business, or personal life, this is advice we can all embrace.
Stay tuned for more exciting conversations and insights from leaders in sports, health, and innovation.
