Joel Schantz

SURVIVOR

In 1988 while attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, I was hit by a car that flew into Tower Records. I sustained major fractures, had an extended hospital stay and rehab for over a year, taking a break from school.

I built strength and resilience, learned how to deal with pain and developed a true "live my truth" attitude, as if I was given a second chance.

I was 20 years old at the time and had no idea how strongly, and more important positively, this event would impact the rest of my life. In order to create the best quality of life midst new physical challenges, I had to make many changes in the health/wellness department.

ADAPTER

Being in less than stellar health at the time, (living the rock n roll night life), it was imperative that I turned things around. Over the next few years, I got in great shape (dropped over 75lbs), studied holistic nutrition and took a more mindful path.

I took a traumatic event and ultimately used it to change my life and develop discipline, consistency and a deep determination to succeed in the field of natural foods and products, of which I became so passionate.

I have become well equipped to pivot and adapt to changes in my personal and professional life, and ultimately thrive.

THRIVER

At that juncture I took my deep determination and creative musical energy and channeled it into the creation of vegan organic energy bars that replicated classics from my youth.

Before I knew it, I was a business owner selling Organic Candy Bars throughout the US and Canada. This is how I learned the trade, by doing it, albeit with great mentors and guidance.

As you will see in my resume, in the last 20 years I have sold chocolate, salt and pretzel bread. What's is the next adventure?  

Now that you know a bit more about me, let's talk! I am a sales cycle specialist with a wealth of versatile experience in the trade. I'm eager to spring forward with the right organization that will recognize my value and offer an environment and progressive culture that I can thrive in.

With Gratitude,

Joel Schantz

** I have 4 years of college education; however, I do not have a degree. There is an easy explanation for this of which I hope to have the opportunity to share with you.**

My inroad to the natural foods industry began in 2002 when I created the first Organic candy bar in the trade. Being new to the trade, I raised enough capital to hire Sales managers, Marketers, Mentors and Brokers to guide me through the learning curve. I licensed the brand in 2009 and went on to work as Sales Director for Celtic Sea Salt brand. This led me to a 10 year tenure with Pretzilla as a National Account Manager and eventually Director of Sales for the Natural and Specialty channels. Whole Foods Market was my main focus.

I learned by doing and having great mentors in the trade. I have 4 years of college experience, yet no degree. This is easily explainable.