Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Kristina Cohen of Decatur

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kristina Cohen. Check out our conversation below.

Kristina , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Well, two things have been bringing me a ton of joy lately outside of work. Taking movement-dance classes and riding my bike. Both bring me back home to myself and rejuvenates my spirit. It’s the best medicine to get out there and push through any resistance and by the end of it, all the serotonin and dopamine is flowing and I can’t help but think how blessed I am to be here breathing and moving forward.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kristina Cohen. I’m a filmmaker and actor, and I’ve also started a botanical snacking granola brand with my life and business partner called Granola People. We bake small-batch granola using organic and local ingredients, with each recipe featuring its own unique botanical and spice profile. Right now, we’re retailing in a few local boutique markets and focused on scaling the business.

Granola People has clean ingredients and exceptional taste. Delicious, hearty, hand-made recipes that live up to the original promise of granola. My partner is a chef and is very discerning about quality and technique and it really shows in the batches every week. Our goal with this thing is to restore balance to the carb-heavy breakfasts and sweet snacks and carve out a lane offering healthy breakfast options that are actually really delicious.

Hewn from the earthly, bound to the celestial.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with my dad has deeply shaped how I see myself. He always encouraged me to go after my dreams, stay true to myself, and “come from the mountain” — to rise above, zoom out and see the bigger picture. Because of him, I see myself as a dreamer and a go-getter and who, with the right mindset, can accomplish anything I set out to do.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
It’s not too late. You’re right on time.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
My partner and I are deeply committed to building Granola People. The time and energy we’re putting into it now is an investment in something long-term. We want to create the most delicious and nourishing granola we can, while also making the process fun and reflective of who we are.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I brought them joy and that I made them laugh. I love making people laugh. I hope they’ll say that being around me made them feel loved, seen, and good about themselves. And I hope they’ll say that I went for it, that I kept growing and expanding as a person, that I gave my passions my whole heart, and that I lit things up along the way.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @granolapeople.co

Image Credits
Codee Adams
Olivia Hamilton
Nicky Smoothskin