Brian Guadagno, founder and CEO of Raw Elements has long been a proponent of protecting skin with—and the oceans from—sunscreen. Starting out in 2009, he has been working with the same contract manufacturer since Day 1 and has partners with plenty of street cred (or should we say, “board” cred): surfing legend Garrett McNamarra as well as Chris Wagaman and Aaron Hennings. This indie brand has nearly doubled its team in the past 12 months to support its growth. Guadagno shares his story:

I started this company because: I am a lifelong ocean lifeguard, 25+ years. I was always aware of harmful effects of overexposure to the sun and became aware of the harmful effects of chemical sunscreen for human and environmental health. I tried every ‘natural’ sunscreen imaginable and was never happy with what was available, from a performance and aesthetic standpoint. I felt there was a huge need for a natural sunscreen that was gentle enough for the most sensitive skin yet met the performance demands outdoor athletes. After doing endless research I began formulating in my kitchen. That is where it all began.

Favorite product: Today most of the initial formulation still begins in my home lab. They all begin with an innovative, functional approach to solve a problem. Being so intimately connected with them all in that way, it’s tough for me to choose one favorite. That said, I am extremely excited to roll out our Zero Waste Baby+Kids collection and our new Pink Sugar Shimmer Lip SPF this summer season!

What is the biggest issue facing for your company right now? Access to resources and the cost associated, I would say is always the greatest challenge. Growing at the tempo in which we are, there is a constant need to feed and reinvest into that growth. I would also say finding the balance of maintaining a steady course while also knowing when to strike on an opportunity could be considered a bit of an art.

Biggest mistake so far: I’d say anytime I allow an outside voice to drown out my inner voice that is a mistake. Surrounding myself with quality, inspiring people and working hard at grounding practices is my fix. 

Alana Mitchell of Alana Mitchell Skincare (our Feb. 2019 Indie Inc. profile) wants to know what is the best business advice you’ve ever received? When you are making a difference, it really is not supposed to be easy.

What has me most excited for Raw Elements in 2019 is: Our team. Bringing on some new, exciting members to collaborate with our existing group; it’s very exciting what is going to happen when everyone spreads their wings together.