As someone who has always been fascinated by the power of innovation to shape industries and communities, I was thrilled to sit down with Bri Warner, the CEO of Atlantic Sea Farms, on the latest episode of the Startup of the Year Podcast. Bri is a trailblazer in sustainable aquaculture, and our conversation was a deep dive (pun intended) into how her team is transforming Maine’s coastline and creating opportunities for local fishermen through kelp farming. I’m also proud to have had an opportunity to invest in Atlantic Sea Farms with some other fantastic investors that care about making the world a better place for us to live through our investment arm, Established Ventures.

Changing the Tide for Coastal Communities

Atlantic Sea Farms is on a mission to revolutionize the way we think about seaweed—not just as a superfood but as a lifeline for Maine’s coastal communities. Bri shared how the company partners with lobstermen, providing them with the training, resources, and support they need to grow kelp during the off-season. This innovative approach not only diversifies their income but also helps mitigate the challenges of climate change, such as warming waters and unpredictable fishing seasons.

It was inspiring to hear Bri talk about her commitment to creating sustainable economic opportunities. She emphasized that Atlantic Sea Farms isn’t just building a business; it’s building resilience in a region deeply connected to its natural resources.

Kelp: The Ocean’s Superhero

One of the highlights of our conversation was learning about the incredible benefits of kelp. Bri explained how kelp farming improves ocean health by absorbing carbon and nitrogen, which helps combat ocean acidification. Plus, kelp is a nutritional powerhouse that’s gaining popularity in kitchens across America. From smoothies to salads, Atlantic Sea Farms’ kelp products are making waves in the food industry.

Bri’s enthusiasm for kelp’s potential was contagious. She spoke about the company’s efforts to innovate in product development, ensuring that seaweed becomes a staple in everyday diets. It’s clear that Atlantic Sea Farms is not just selling products—they’re inspiring a sea change in how we consume and care for our planet.

Leadership Lessons from the Ocean

As a leader, Bri brings a unique perspective shaped by her background in public health and her passion for environmental stewardship. She shared some of the challenges she’s faced, from raising awareness about kelp farming to scaling a mission-driven business. Her insights on building trust with stakeholders—whether they’re fishermen, customers, or investors—were particularly impactful.

One of my favorite moments was when Bri described the importance of staying authentic and true to your mission, even when faced with setbacks. Her leadership style is a reminder that purpose-driven entrepreneurship can create lasting change.

Tune In to the Full Conversation

If you’re curious about the future of sustainable food systems, the power of community-driven innovation, or just want to learn more about why kelp is the next big thing, you won’t want to miss this episode. Bri’s passion and expertise shine through, and I’m confident you’ll come away as inspired as I was.

Check out the full interview with Bri Warner, CEO of Atlantic Sea Farms, on YouTube here, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Startup of the Year Podcast for more conversations with incredible innovators who are shaping the future.