Emily Darchuk | Source | CEO & Founder at Wheyward Spirit

Emily Darchuk, founder and CEO of Wheyward Spirit, began her career as a food scientist in the natural food and dairy industry before revolutionizing the liquor sector with sustainable spirits. Her mission-driven approach brings the principles of natural food into the spirit category, benefiting consumers and local farmers alike. With a background in Food Science and Nutrition from the University of Illinois and further studies in Food Science and Technology and Innovation and Entrepreneurship, she gained experience at Coca-Cola and as owner of Rara Avis Innovators. Mentored by Gary Hirshberg of Stonyfield Farm, Emily's dedication led her to craft her signature spirit using whey, an underutilized agricultural byproduct. This endeavor culminated in the launch of Wheyward Spirit in 2020, offering a "farm to flask" product that combines culinary excellence with sustainability, residing in Portland, Oregon with her husband and rescue dog.