Kristen Dunning Transformed a Personal Struggle into Shark Tank Success With Gently Soap

"Being an entrepreneur means being a role model, the person I wish I saw when I was younger." Kristen Dunning is the founder of Gently Soap, a brand that crafts pure and sustainable herbal remedies that every body can use. Inspired by a battle with eczema, Kristen pioneered herbal research in college and Gently is a testament to her resilience, innovation, and the power of nature. Kristen’s story led her to ABC’s Shark Tank, where she secured a deal with fellow Entreprenista Candace Nelson, fueling her brand's growth. Her mission now is to bring plant derived, skin safe products to all households. Tune in and hear what Kristen tells us about her childhood struggle with eczema and the impact it had on her confidence, the strategy she used to win multiple collegiate entrepreneurship pitch competitions, and the behind the scenes of her Shark Tank experience. We talked about: The lack of eczema-friendly products on the market (05:56) Sourcing capital through UGA’s entrepreneurship program (16:01) Kristen’s Shark Tank experience and advice for future contestants (21:17) People are always willing to give business advice (37:02) Kristen’s biggest business secret (39:18) Connect with Gabrielle: Gently Soap @ProfessionalPlantGirl on IG @GentlySoap on IG Are you ready to make meaningful business connections that lead to real business results? Join our Entreprenista League community of women founders at https://refer.entreprenista.com/joinus! You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded Entreprenistas who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website and social channels, and access to Office Hours with top founders who have been on our show! We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of The Entreprenista Podcast - the most fun business meeting for women founders and leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Spotify | Stitcher | iHeart Radio | GooglePlay Be sure to share your favorite episodes across social media to help us reach more amazing female founders, like you.