Meet Martha Santos

We had the good fortune of connecting with Martha Santos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Martha, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I first brought my dog, Miru, into my life, he quickly became my world. Living in Washington, we spent countless hours exploring the stunning hikes and landscapes that the state has to offer. But as my partner and I prepared for our longer adventures, I noticed a glaring gap in the market: while we had endless options for portable energy bars, there was nothing equivalent for my dog—only single-ingredient treats or low-quality biscuits filled with fillers.

With my background in cellular and molecular physiology, I knew the importance of high-quality calories, especially for active dogs. Dogs metabolize food much faster than humans, and given their shorter lifespans, it’s even more crucial that what they consume is clean, nutrient-dense, and specifically tailored to their metabolic needs. I realized that existing portable snacks either contained unnecessary fillers or failed to address the unique demands of an active dog’s body.

That’s when the idea for Ryōken Instinct was born. I wanted to create something that would support not just my dog, but also the many passionate dog owners out there who view their pets as true adventure companions. Our products, especially our bars, were developed to fill that gap, providing high-quality, metabolically appropriate nutrition for dogs who live their best, most active lives. Ryōken Instinct is truly a love letter to my own dog, a brand that dog owners can trust, knowing it was built from a place of genuine care, research, and dedication to the bond we share with our four-legged friends.

What should our readers know about your business?
Our commitment to quality—from sourcing to manufacturing to packaging—sets us apart. We’re proud to have been recognized as the best functional dog treat of the year by the Pet Innovation Awards, a testament to our dedication. The road hasn’t been easy; setbacks, delays, and financial challenges have all been part of the journey. However, our unwavering passion for enhancing the bond between dogs and their owners keep us grounded.

Through challenges, we’ve learned valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community. Our brand is built on values shared with dog owners who prioritize their companions’ health and happiness through activities like training, sports and outdoor adventures.

Looking ahead, while we’re excited about our achievements, we’re even more pumped about what the future holds. We’re continually innovating and striving to expand our reach, always aiming to make a meaningful impact in the lives of dogs and their owners. Ryōken Instinct isn’t just about products; it’s about fostering moments of profound connection and adventure that enrich both human and canine lives.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d take them to the breathtaking North Cascades National Park, just two hours north of Seattle. This place is a true gem for anyone who loves the outdoors. We’d set up camp to really soak in the natural beauty, and I’d take care of the meals to make sure we’re well-fueled for our adventures.

For food, I’d start with kimchi fried rice, which is perfect for camping—spicy, tangy, and filling. I’d bring pre-cooked rice, chopped kimchi, some green onions, and a bit of gochujang for that extra kick. Add some spam or pork belly for protein, and you’ve got a hearty meal ready to go.

Next, I’d prepare Japanese yakitori. I’d marinate chicken thighs in my three-year old tare – a mix of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and a touch of sugar, then skewer them with green onions. Grilling them over the campfire would give them that smoky flavor that’s just unbeatable.

And for a warm, comforting dinner, I’d make a hot pot. I’d bring a portable stove, some miso broth, thinly sliced beef, napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and udon noodles. It’s a communal dish, perfect for sharing and warming up after a day on the trails.

As for the hikes, I’d choose three of my favorites:

1. Blue Lake Trail – This hike is about 4.6 miles round trip with an elevation gain of around 1,050 feet. It’s considered moderate and offers stunning views of the turquoise Blue Lake, surrounded by jagged peaks. The trail winds through forests and open meadows, and if you’re lucky, you might catch some wildflowers in bloom. The serene lake at the end is the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty.
2. Maple Pass Loop – This is a more challenging hike, about 7.2 miles with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet. The loop is known for its incredible panoramic views of the North Cascades, especially in the fall when the larches turn golden. The trail takes you through dense forests, open ridges, and past alpine lakes, offering a little bit of everything. It’s a tough climb, but the 360-degree views at the top are absolutely worth it.
3. Artist Point – This hike is shorter, only about 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 1,000 feet, and it’s considered easy to moderate. The views here are some of the best in the region, with Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan looming large in the background. It’s the kind of place where you can just sit and marvel at the scenery, watching the clouds drift by and feeling completely at peace.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My partner Michael is the unsung hero behind Ryōken Instinct’s journey. His tireless commitment to managing our operations and finances has been the cornerstone of our growth. His steadfast support frees me to focus on my passion: sharing our brand story, innovating our products, and reaching more dog owners with our heartfelt mission.

But outside our immediate business, I will forever have a special place in my heart for our community – the ryōken pack.. They’ve been our champions from day one, sharing in our belief that every dog deserves the world and more. Their boundless passion and unwavering support inspire us to push harder, dream bigger, and create a lasting impact in the lives of dogs everywhere.

Website: www.ryokeninstinct.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ryokeninstinct