Episode 70: Heart & Hemp: Leading with Grit, Passion & Perseverance

This episode was created from my heart to you. ♥ “My passion is natural health and my purpose is to help share it with the world.” Mike Fata Mike Fata co-founded Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods in 1998. From 1998 to 2016, he ran all aspects of the company as Chairman of the Board and CEO. In February 2019 Mike helped guide the strategic sale of Manitoba Harvest to Tilray for $419 million dollars. Mike has dedicated over 25 years studying and practicing natural health, starting in 1995 when he made the life-changing decision to lose over 100lbs, and go from 300lbs to his current 180Lbs. He has gained an excellent knowledge of human anatomy, diet, nutrition and natural health lifestyle. Mike is a keynote speaker, has been featured on television, radio and quoted in newspapers and magazines countless times regarding natural health, nutrition, hemp foods, organic agriculture and sustainable business. Mike has won numerous awards; Young Entrepreneur of the Year (2004) Socially Responsible Business Award (2006) The Lorax Award (2006) Top 40 under 40 (2008) Company of the Year (2010) CHFA Organic Achievement Award (2010) Spirit of Winnipeg Award (2014) Nutrition Business Journal Education Award (2014) CME Emerging Business Award (2014) EY Entrepreneur of the Year (2014) MFPA Presidents Award (2016) OTA Organic Rising Star Award (2016) Top 100 Health Influencers (2017) As well, he has guided Manitoba Harvest to be on the Profit 100 list of fastest-growing companies in Canada for 5 consecutive years. In July 2015 Mike guided a majority sale of Manitoba Harvest to The Compass Group with an enterprise value of $132 million dollars. Then in December 2015 Mike lead Manitoba Harvest’s acquisition of Hemp Oil Canada for $42 million dollars. In February 2019 Mike helped guide the strategic sale of Manitoba Harvest to Tilray for $419 million dollars. Mike is currently Chief Executive Officer of Fata & Associates, Chairman of the Board of Sol Cuisine and Director (Past Chairman) of the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA). Mike is a homeschooling father, certified holistic health coach and avid backyard organic farmer. In his free time, he enjoys coaching and mentoring emerging natural health entrepreneurs. Previously Mike has served as Chairman of the Board of YPO Manitoba, Board Member and Treasurer of Canadian Organic Trade Association, Chairman of the Board of the Canadian Hemp Trade Association, Board Member of the Manitoba Food Processors Association and Chairman of the Board of Om Organic Mushrooms.