Alexa Hesse shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Alexa , thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I know for me, as a small business owner and creative, I often struggle with feeling like I have to keep it all together all the time. On the outside, it might look like everything is flowing effortlessly- the pretty markets, the colorful jars, the joyful energy of the brand. But behind the scenes, I’m constantly problem-solving, learning, and sometimes doubting myself- trying to balance growth, be a strong leader for my team, and be fully present as a mom through it all.
We as business owners never want to sound ungrateful for the love and support we receive, but sometimes entrepreneurship can feel lonely, like you’re the only one who isn’t “figuring it out.” I want to create more space for honest, judgment-free conversations about the real side of building something meaningful, where we can remind each other that struggle doesn’t cancel out gratitude.
Because the most beautiful part of this journey isn’t in the moments of perfection. It’s in the courage to keep showing up anyway — even when things feel messy or hard. That’s where the heart of Yummy Lotus really lives for me: in showing up with love, even on the tough days, and trusting that the energy I pour into what I create will always come back in some form of light.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Alexa Hesse, the founder and heart behind Yummy Lotus, a gourmet pepper jam company based in Golden, Colorado. Yummy Lotus was born from a love of flavor and a deep belief that food should connect people – to joy, to creativity, and to each other. Our jams are all about balance: a little heat, a little sweet, and a whole lot of flavor.
What makes Yummy Lotus special is the intention behind it — to create something that sparks happiness in someone’s day. It’s not just jam; it’s an experience that invites people to slow down, savor, and connect.
Right now, we’re expanding our wholesale partnerships, exploring more gifting collaborations, and showing up in more communities around Colorado. But at the core, my mission remains the same — to create delicious, thoughtful food that reminds people how good it feels to enjoy something made with real care and love.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think what often breaks bonds between people is a lack of understanding or presence—when we stop truly seeing each other, or when fear, ego, or judgment takes the lead. Life gets busy, words go unsaid, and small misunderstandings can grow if we let them.
What restores bonds is openness, honesty, and the willingness to meet each other where we are. It might be sharing a laugh, offering forgiveness, showing up even when it’s hard—or in my world, sharing a jar of jam with someone. Connection is about creating little pockets of space where people feel safe, seen, and celebrated. It’s in those moments that we remember: we belong, we matter, and relationships are worth nurturing.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that’s held me back the most is the fear of not being good enough. Even after nearly ten years of building Yummy Lotus, I sometimes catch myself second-guessing my knowledge, my choices, or my ability to run my own business. I ask myself: Do I really know what I’m doing? Am I truly a good business owner?
Alongside that, I’ve also struggled with the fear of the unknown. I work deeply in knowledge and strategy, but growth often requires stepping into uncharted territory. There have been moments where I hesitated because I wondered if I was capable of the next step, or if all I’d built was fragile. But the truth is, I’ve created something beautiful that people appreciate and connect with, and embracing that uncertainty has been the pathway to growth and deeper connection—not just with my business, but with myself.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
One truth that’s foundational in my life, though I rarely articulate it, is my drive to constantly evolve into a better version of myself. I never want to be stagnant—personally, creatively, or professionally. That drive shows up in how I run Yummy Lotus, how I connect with people, and most importantly, how I show up as a mom. Every day, I aim to model curiosity, growth, and presence, and to create a life full of joy, learning, and meaningful connection.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I think about the story I hope people tell about me when I’m gone, I hope they remember my warmth and my ability to truly connect. I want people to feel that I saw them and created spaces—through Yummy Lotus, in my community, with my incredible team, or at home with my family—where they felt seen, celebrated, and a little happier just by being around me. Whether it’s the joy of a farmers market, a shared meal with my kids, or a moment of support from my team, I hope my legacy is one of connection, care, and moments that ripple outward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yummylotus.com
- Instagram: @yummylotus
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yummylotusjam
Image Credits
Jenna Loeva Photography
