Meet the powerhouse duo behind Bite Body, Jaime Hackett and Erin Prohaska, two purpose-led entrepreneurs and avid adventurers. Jaime, a marketing and tech expert, and Erin, a finance and taxation professional, are driven by their passion for empowering women, promoting sustainability and finding innovative solutions. Frustrated with greasy, strong-smelling, and chemical-laden bug sprays, they wanted a better alternative. That’s how Bite Body was born – clean, non-toxic, and effective.
What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
Jaime: At 15, I started as a hostess at a restaurant and stuck with it for seven years. I learned how to deal with people, practice patience, and be punctual. Plus, it gave me early financial independence from my parents, which was a huge bonus!
Erin: I worked at a family-owned banquet hall as a server, handling everything from setup to tear-down for all kinds of events. It taught me accountability and responsibility – and confirmed one thing for sure: I definitely didn't want a traditional wedding or to be a "Bridezilla!"
If you think back on leaders who inspired you in your career or leadership style, who were they and why were they inspiring?
Jaime: Throughout my career, I've drawn inspiration from different people, including family and past leaders, who helped me build confidence and recognize my potential.
Erin: My journey at Deloitte shaped my leadership style, inspired by leaders who embodied patience and taught me how to handle mistakes. Instead of pointing fingers, they focused on solutions: “How do we fix it?” We always debriefed afterward to learn from the experience. It was all about teamwork - there’s no “I” in achievements! Working in various small organizations and private firms also inspired me to collaborate and continually challenge myself.
What motivates you every day?
Jaime: The community around us and the positive feedback from customers about our product, along with the re-orders, really keep me motivated. Working as a team is a huge factor - we don’t want to let each other down. We’ve accomplished so much in our first year; this is just the beginning of our journey!
Erin: Every day, I strive to do more than the last, which can be a double-edged sword; it sometimes means I forget to celebrate our wins as they come. I’m always pushing for more!
What do you want to change in the world and why?
Jaime: I want to change the world by encouraging more women to step up and start their own businesses. It’s important for them to realize they can be their own leaders and create their own paths.
Erin: I echo that sentiment. I believe that if we help women build confidence in their abilities from a young age, we can empower them to take charge and pursue their dreams with conviction. So, bet on yourself!
What is the purpose and vision of Bite Body? And why is your purpose and vision important for your customers?
Our mission is simple: to create a natural, effective solution to keep pesky bugs at bay.
Let’s face it, most insect repellents are filled with hidden toxins, making them more of a health risk than a solution. And who hasn’t had a bad reaction to a mosquito bite or worried about ticks? It takes only one bite to remind us how important protection is. We knew there had to be a better way. So, we developed a clean, non-toxic product that people actually want to use - safely and effectively. We believe it should look as beautiful as it feels on your skin. That’s why our solution not only keeps the bugs away but also helps build healthy habits, so you can enjoy the great outdoors, worry-free!
What one piece of advice would you give other entrepreneurs and leaders regarding leading with purpose?
Jaime: Stay true to yourself, your vision, and what you're trying to achieve, no matter the challenges or distractions. Stay the course and keep focused.
Erin: Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Find your niche and commit to it.
Like the old saying goes, “there’s a lid for every pot.”
Trust that your market exists, and make sure any new ideas align with your original plan, if they don’t, they’re just distractions!
What one question would you like to ask other purpose-led CEOs?
Have you ever reached a breaking point - wondering whether you should continue? If so, what was the root cause, and how did you get yourself back on track?
One question from the CEO we interviewed before you, Ben Greenhouse, CEO, Potentia Renewables Inc.
How do you prioritize your tasks and time - balancing mentoring others versus being curious yourself versus moving through the day to day tasks that keep a business moving?
Jaime: We rely on systems and processes to keep us organized and to tackle our priorities efficiently. Mentoring vs. sharing is always an interesting balance! As we are learning to navigate the ropes of this new industry, we are always happy to share our learning. We have been so fortunate to receive amazing mentorship from those around us, which I hope to give back with time and growth.
Erin: Priorities should be measured across all areas of life, and it’s important to re-evaluate timelines to ensure they’re realistic and necessary. Before each new week, we schedule a check-in to focus on critical success factors for the business. We manage two main work buckets and one personal:
Strategic tasks that drive the business forward
Day-to-day tasks that must get done
Personal refresh for balance and well-being
When it comes to mentoring, I am committed to giving back and supporting others, especially women, whenever I can. I believe in sharing my expertise and being open about what I am still learning. Given that our business is seasonal, I find it easier to focus on mentoring during the quieter periods, allowing me to dedicate the time and attention it deserves.
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