Rviita’s Rise: How Karly Jacobsen Built a Better Energy Drink and a Purpose-Driven Team

In this energizing episode, Shane Jeremy James sits down with Karly Jacobsen, co-founder of Rviita, the first non-carbonated, better-for-you energy drink delivered in innovative pouch packaging. Inspired by a close friend’s energy drink-related heart scare, Karly and her brother, Mitch, set out to create a healthier, more mindful alternative and ended up building one of Canada’s most exciting beverage startups. Karly shares her journey from night-shift nurse to entrepreneur, how they overcame early manufacturing nightmares, and the lessons learned in building a team-first culture.

She opens up about raising capital, scaling through Sobeys and Costco, and why relationships, not just great products, are the foundation of long-term success. Whether you're in CPG, a founder just starting, or someone passionate about brand building with heart, this episode is packed with real talk, practical advice, and entrepreneurial inspiration.