We had the good fortune of connecting with Sari Megan Kern and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sari Megan, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Gambling and adrenaline are deeply ingrained in my nature. From learning Blackjack with my dad as a young child, to training as a cave diver in university, I’ve always sought the rush of uncertainty. Yet, I understand the difference between reckless gambling and calculated risk-taking.

In both personal and professional realms, I’ve embraced risk, driven by the thrill of uncertainty tempered by strategic planning. I’ve often left secure positions for more challenging roles, driven by a constant hunger for growth and innovation. This mindset, shaped by my background as an ER nurse and a poker player, guides my approach to decision-making.

Every choice I make is a calculated gamble, weighing potential rewards against inherent uncertainties. It’s this blend of thrill-seeking and strategic thinking that propels me forward, constantly pushing boundaries and seeking opportunities for growth. Risk-taking isn’t about recklessness; it’s about informed decisions that lead to substantial rewards. It’s woven into the very fabric of who I am, driving my journey toward success.

Starting Zen Stax has been my latest risk – launching a food company with no prior experience, two kids, and another on the way was a gamble. However, I meticulously analyzed financials and market competition, leveraging my ability to empathize with customers to make informed decisions. This venture embodies my ethos of calculated risk-taking, where the potential for success outweighs the uncertainty of the journey.

What should our readers know about your business?
Zen Stax offers gourmet, plant-based, superfood-loaded pancake batter. What sets us apart is our dedication to crafting pancake batter that’s not only delicious but also nutritionally dense. We balance indulgence with nutrition, infusing our batter with premium ingredients and superfoods to ensure every bite is a delightful treat for your taste buds and your well-being.

One of my proudest moments is when a parent returns to the Farmers Market to buy for the second time and says, “this has changed my life.” It resonates with me deeply because I understand. I cherish those extra 30 minutes of sleep in the morning, preparing a breakfast in just 5 minutes that my boys love, knowing they’re starting their day with a good source of fiber, protein, and omegas. Their favorite flavors like Banana Chocolate Chip, Gluten-Free Double Chocolate, and Guava Strawberry are a hit, but even our flavors with no added sugar are enjoyed when topped with superfood syrup (stay tuned for more on this 😉). Plus, I appreciate the few extra minutes at the end of breakfast when I don’t have nearly as many dishes to wash.

Building a business from scratch, especially as a mom, has its challenges. Over the past two years, I’ve learned countless lessons—from social media hurdles and website glitches to supply-chain management, equipment failures, and packaging mishaps. But with an incredible support system and loyal customers who stand by us through thick and thin, we’ve overcome each obstacle together.

I want the world to know about the aloha influence in our brand. While I’m not native to Hawai’i, my time there taught me invaluable life lessons about kindness, stewardship of the land, and the importance of family. These values are woven into our brand because amidst life’s busyness and stress, it’s essential to reconnect with what truly matters. I hope our customers take a moment to breathe, share aloha with their loved ones, and find gratitude in the simple joys of life.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

If my best friend were visiting for a week-long trip, here’s how I’d plan the ultimate adventure:
We would start with a beach day at Leo Carrillo, bringing the kiddos to climb the rocks and explore the tidepools. I would bring my surfboard, too, and I would almost catch 10 waves and maybe fall on one or two. We would then head to dinner at Satdha in Santa Monica, treating ourselves to plant-based gourmet Thai food by Chef Gun.

On a Saturday, we would, of course, head to the Calabasas Farmers Market for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. We would have Gene tell us all about the history of his fruit trees at Etheridge Farms while we sampled the best citrus we ever tasted. We would grab fresh sprouts and organic strawberries from Alex at AZ Ranch, some kombucha from Waren at Wava, tea from Arcana Apothecary, and some palo santo and candles to match our vibe from Rasheeda at Mood Servant. We would also get some authentic Turkish Towels from Room 34 to bring on a hike in the canyons after the market for a picnic lunch. I am always hungry so after hiking we would be ready for dinner at Makin Vegan Sushi in Agoura.

A wellness day would be in order as well and I can’t think of anything more perfect than starting the morning with a Daybreaker event (a sober morning rave centered on gratitude). Joi cafe is a favorite of mine as well as Juice Ranch for cold-pressed juices and a healthy breakfast. We would enjoy a pilates session with Jennifer Wilson of Bodywise and then we would head out to Santa Monica to see Dr. Chen at MyQi and indulge in her infrared sauna, gua sha, acupuncture, massage and Chinese herbs. I love finishing a relaxing day at the beach and Point Dume is the perfect place for quiet walking meditation as well as swimming and watching wildlife. An indulgent dinner would be at Kusaki in West L.A., where we would drool over Chef Pearl’s innovative Japanese cuisine.

I also think it is always worth the trip down to Manhattan Beach for a surf lesson and a bike ride on the beach. Plus there are so many delicious cafes to eat at and it is close to Hollywood Park Casino. We would definitely meet up with my poker buds and play some hands.

All this planning is making me think it might be time to take a restorative week for myself…

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
They say it takes a village, and I’ve wholeheartedly embraced that belief. My husband, Justin, though inherently risk-averse, stands by my side and supports my small business journey. While I hustle at weekend markets, he holds down the fort with our three boys, often lending a hand with the heavy lifting.

My mom, my rock and biggest cheerleader, embodies the spirit of support. She’s not just my best customer; she’s a one-woman marketing team, spreading the word about Zen Stax far and wide. And when the financial road gets tough, my dad is there, offering unwavering support and guidance.

And let’s not forget my boys, the true CTOs (Chief Tasting Officers) and ultimate endorsers of Zen Stax. Their voracious appetite for our snacks reminds me daily that our business is making a real impact.

To my tribe, thank you for being my pillars of strength, my sounding boards, and my constant source of inspiration. Together, we’re not just building a business; we’re creating a legacy. Here’s to many more moments of growth, gratitude, and shared success.

Website: https://www.zen-stax.com

Instagram: @zenstax

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smkern/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarimkern

Yelp: Zen Stax

Other: TikTok: @pinkhairedpancakequeen

Image Credits
Shane O’Donnell – photos of me, of Bodhi eating a pancake, of the stack of guava strawberry pancakes, and the family photo.

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