Dear Friends and Colleagues,

As 2024 came to a close, I transitioned out of the CEO role. This was a deliberate step—one that honors my strength as a visionary leader while recognizing the need for an integrator leader for our next phase of growth that’s so dependent on aligned teams, organizational structure, and world-class sales and marketing execution. Together, we’re the yin and the yang, bringing both speed and stability, while delivering a reimagined standard of sustainability to the marketplace.

Every seven years, I’ve noticed a natural rhythm in my life—a calling to pause, reflect, and evolve. True to form, this year brought transitions and challenges that called me to grow in new ways. It was humbling, rewarding, and a reminder that cycles of change are necessary for both personal and professional flourishing.

A 3-Year Initiative Comes Full Circle

Three years ago, EarthKind set out to transition from an entrepreneurial-run company to a professionally-run organization. The goals were ambitious but clear: build the right team, implement scalable systems, and stay true to what we do best: protect people, pets, property, and the planet. This year, I’m proud to say we achieved that big goal, laying the foundation for sustainable, scalable growth.

Together, we’ve created:

– Next-generation capabilities across manufacturing, innovation, and omni-channel sales, driven by data-focused strategies to deliver delightful experiences to our valued customers.

– Record-breaking growth, with $350M cumulative sales through national retailers.

– A financially sound, debt-free foundation poised for long-term success.

– A top-rated workplace where trust, collaboration, and purpose, drive innovation and employee engagement.

– An innovation pipeline delivering humane, effective, and sustainable solutions.

As 2024 came to a close, I transitioned out of the CEO role. This was a deliberate step—one that honors my strength as a visionary leader while recognizing the need for an integrator to guide the next phase of growth. In 2025, my STEP-UP founder principles will combine with our new CEO’s expertise to bring both speed and stability, delivering transformative growth and a reimagined standard of sustainability to the marketplace.

Answering the Call: From Israel to Nature to Leadership Transformation

At the end of 2023, I felt a personal calling that took me to Israel for 33 days. There, I worked alongside farmers and community leaders facing devastating challenges. Returning home, I helped raise funds for their recovery—an experience that deepened my commitment to stewarding what sustains us. Click here to learn more: http://bit.ly/42965RF

I also leaned further into my passion for nature, joining the Monarch Joint Venture board to advance conservation efforts for pollinators. This work aligns closely with EarthKind’s work – protecting what matters most.

To navigate the transitions of this year, I joined vYve by Vayner, a transformative program supporting high-performing leaders through the complexities of growth and innovation. The experience left me feeling renewed and reminded me that CSuite leaders, too, need nurturing and aligned networks to build the futures we envision.

2024 in Summary: A Year of Alignment and Growth

This year was a testament to the power of aligned leadership, enduring principles, and a purpose-driven mission. Together, we’ve built:

– A company ready for exponential growth.

– A culture where employees feel empowered and valued.

– Innovations that set new standards for humane, sustainable pest control.

As Executive Chair, my role now focuses on EarthKinds long- term goals, opportunities and direction of the business, while our trusted team and new CEO focus on execution towards that vision.

Looking Ahead to 2025

In 2025, EarthKind will build on this strong foundation, expanding our reach and deepening our impact. I look forward to sharing more about this journey—and my personal goals—in my next blog post.

To my team, partners, and supporters: thank you for believing in EarthKind’s mission and daring greatly alongside me. Together, we’re #unstoppable.

With love and gratitude,

Kari