Artisan Labs VP of Product Development Inspires Next Generation on Idaho 4-H Roundup Podcast
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Hansen-Based Cosmetics Company Showcases Innovation and Community Partnership in Eastern District Teen Takeover Episode
Hansen, Idaho – Mara Reed, Vice President of Product Development at Artisan Labs, was featured as a guest speaker on the popular Idaho 4-H Roundup podcast during their special "Eastern District Teen Takeover" episode, which aired on April 28, 2024. The appearance highlighted the innovative cosmetics company's commitment to STEM education and youth development in rural Idaho communities.
Teen Leaders Take the Mic
In a unique twist that aired this past spring, the podcast episode was entirely hosted by Eastern District teen leadership officers Cynthia Squires and Fall Orgill, who interviewed Reed alongside Matt Fisher from 4-H Youth Development. This youth-led format showcased the next generation of Idaho leaders taking initiative in their communities.
"This is the eastern district team leadership officer team, and we've decided to take over this episode," announced the teen hosts, setting the stage for an engaging conversation about STEM careers and entrepreneurship.
From High School Intern to Industry Leader
Reed shared her inspiring career journey, which began with a bold move right after high school graduation. "I applied for an internship back when I was in high school, and that internship was at another cosmetics manufacturer here in Idaho, and luckily, I got it. And four days after graduating high school, I traveled across the country from New York over to Idaho, and started my little career in cosmetic science."
Her path from lab technician to director exemplifies the opportunities available in Idaho's growing manufacturing sector, particularly for young people willing to pursue STEM careers in unexpected places.
Artisan Labs' Community Connections
The podcast revealed Artisan Labs' strong ties to local youth development programs. Reed explained how the Hansen-based company has partnered with their local 4-H chapter: "At artisan labs in Hanson, Idaho, we are pretty close with our local chat 4h chapter, and we've done multiple lab tours and multiple experiments with them, showing how their crops may be eventually used in a cosmetic product."
This partnership demonstrates how the company bridges agriculture and cosmetics science, showing rural youth how their local crops can be transformed into high-value products through innovative formulation and manufacturing processes.
Hands-On STEM Education in Action
During the teen retreat that prompted this podcast interview, Reed conducted interactive demonstrations that captured the imagination of participating 4-H members. "I came prepared with some mini experiments to show how a lotion is made," she explained, noting the exceptional engagement from the students.
Entrepreneurial Spirit Emerges
What impressed Reed most was the entrepreneurial mindset of the 4-H participants. "What I was really impressed by was all of the questions that were posed. I was I loved how entrepreneurial each member in 4h seemed. I think a few of them are getting ready to start some lotion brands here, possibly."
This entrepreneurial enthusiasm reflects the broader impact of programs like this, where young people see real pathways from local agriculture to value-added manufacturing and brand development.
Changing Perceptions About Rural Youth
Matt Fisher, the 4-H Youth Development specialist who facilitated Reed's involvement, emphasized the quality of the participants: "Unfortunately, I think teenagers, high schoolers, get a bad rap, because they're seen sometimes as immature or ornery or things like that. And the good thing about coming to a retreat like this is the people want to be here."
Reed echoed this sentiment, praising the students' curiosity: "I also was impressed with their curiosity. There were so many interesting, intelligent questions asked."
STEM Education in Rural Communities
This podcast appearance underscores Reed's commitment to rural STEM education. "Rural STEM education is something that's close to my heart," she shared, explaining her motivation for participating in youth development programs.
The collaboration between Artisan Labs and 4-H represents a successful model for how innovative companies can contribute to educational opportunities in rural areas, potentially inspiring the next generation of scientists, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.
About the Idaho 4-H Roundup Podcast
The Idaho 4-H Roundup podcast, typically hosted by Joe and Jeremy, provides listeners with "Gem State 4-H facts, fun, and foolishness." The Eastern District Teen Takeover episode demonstrated the leadership development that 4-H programs foster, with teen officers confidently conducting professional interviews and showcasing their communities.
Artisan Labs: Innovation Meets Community
This podcast feature adds to Artisan Labs' growing recognition as both an industry innovator and community partner. The company, which specializes in custom cosmetic formulation and manufacturing, has become a significant economic driver in Hansen and the broader Magic Valley region.
Previous Recognition Includes:
- Twin Falls Times News feature on cosmetic manufacturing processes
- KMVT Channel 11 behind-the-scenes business spotlight
- Southern Idaho Economic Development acknowledgment
- SBA official visit highlighting company growth
The Future of Rural STEM
Reed's appearance on the podcast illustrates how companies like Artisan Labs are changing the landscape of rural career opportunities. By connecting agricultural roots with advanced manufacturing and scientific innovation, they're creating pathways for young people to build successful careers without leaving their home communities.
Key Takeaways for Idaho Youth
Career Opportunities: STEM careers exist in unexpected places, including cosmetics manufacturing in rural Idaho Entrepreneurship: Local agricultural products can be transformed into high-value cosmetic ingredients Education Pathways: Hands-on experiences and mentorship can spark lifelong career interests Community Impact: Local businesses can play vital roles in youth development and education
Connect with Artisan Labs
Company Information:
- Location: Hansen, Idaho (Magic Valley region)
- Specialties: Custom cosmetic formulation, body care, skincare products
- Services: Product development, manufacturing, packaging
- Website: artisanlabs.com
Educational Partnerships:
- Local 4-H chapter collaborations
- Lab tours and STEM demonstrations
- Youth development program support
The Idaho 4-H Roundup podcast is available on major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music. The Eastern District Teen Takeover episode from April 28, 2024, showcases the impressive leadership development happening through Idaho's 4-H programs and highlights how local businesses like Artisan Labs are investing in the next generation.
