Atlanta-based entrepreneur Jasmine Crowe’s startup Goodr began with a simple question: Why don’t more businesses donate their unused food? The answer, as she recently shared on Office Hours (check out the replay above), had a lot to do with logistics. What followed were many late nights of research, dozens of pitch competitions and more than a few hand-drawn wireframes for developers. By the end of 2017, Crowe had gathered the resources to create her breakthrough tech to fight hunger.
The Goodr app, based on blockchain technology, allows restaurants and event venues to route meals that would otherwise be discarded to people who need it—and claim tax credits to boot. Goodr also lets corporations sponsor local pop-up grocery stores and grocery delivery for those in need—two services her team has increasingly leaned into since the pandemic.
Today, with a multimillion-dollar valuation and plans for expansion, Goodr’s CEO and founder is hardly letting up. But after a breakneck couple of years, a pandemic and a new baby, she’s finding new ways to restore her spirit and maintain focus.
Self-care & Attitude
What does self-care mean to you?
Self-care means mental and physical wellness, it means caring for yourself, putting yourself first and making sure you are whole to do the tasks and jobs that are required of you. After experiencing burnout a year into my startup journey, I began to take my self-care extra seriously. I know that I cannot pour from an empty cup.
How do you maintain a positive attitude?
I believe that great things are always happening for me. I put out a lot of good in the universe, and I know it’s coming back to me. I also find that my attitude affects the attitudes of those around me, so I always try and see the positive in any situation I’m dealt.
How do you “turn off” at the end of the day?
I have a hard stop policy for myself. If I’m answering emails and working, I set a time where, no matter what, I close my laptop. I snooze my emails until the next morning and say, “Work is done for today.”
Workspace & Routine
Do you have an office at home? Tell us about it.
Yes, and I love it. I recently purchased a home, so building an office was a given. It incorporates some of my favorite colors: white, gold, gray and pink. I have three bookcases, a mini white board, a ring light for filming and interviews, pictures of my loved ones, and flowers—lots of flowers always!
What do you do when you need a change of scenery?
Pre-pandemic, I would travel. Even during the pandemic I snuck away to the mountains and the beach and worked outside. When that’s not possible, I switch between working at home and working in the Goodr office. Sometimes you will find me on the building’s rooftop, other times I’m at our playground or at my desk. I guess you can say I like to move around.
Time & Organization
How do you keep yourself on track during the day?
I am still a heavy to-do list person. Every day I make a list of things I want to accomplish, and I take them off as I complete them. I also live by my calendar and my amazing assistant, who helps make sure I have everything scheduled.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned or habit you’ve formed to create more balance?
I have learned that work-life balance is something that you have to achieve. I plan things like date nights. I am intentional about taking breaks and spending time with my loved ones. I am also getting into working out again. I recently purchased an exercise bike, and I am finding joy in reaching some of my health goals and living a better, well-balanced lifestyle.
This interview is part of Office Hours, a series that connects you with entrepreneurs and experts with tips for running and growing a business right now. Find other can’t-miss conversations by visiting our Events page.