Ali Lazowski is the founder and CEO of Bare Life, a plant-based food startup inspired by her journey with chronic illness. After attending Renbrook and Miss Porter’s schools in Connecticut, she attended culinary school in Italy and then studied at Johns Hopkins.
Her twin battles with cancer and Lyme disease fueled her passion for food, leading to the creation of Bare Life’s award-winning organic, plant-based, and gluten-free hot cocoa mixes. They are now available at over 300 locations across 32 states, including UConn, Whole Foods, QVC and Amazon.
Lazowski also chairs reSET’s board of directors and was named to HBJ’s and Connecticut Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40.
What have been your biggest professional accomplishments so far?
Founding Bare Life is my biggest achievement — turning a near-decade-long health struggle into a thriving company. From launching in Whole Foods and QVC to selling out our Pumpkin Spice flavor in 10 days, the journey has been incredible. But the greatest reward? Helping people rediscover nostalgic foods they thought they’d never enjoy again.
What’s the next big goal you want to accomplish professionally?
To grow — both Bare Life and our impact. I want to expand beyond hot cocoa, creating everyday staples that are clean, unrefined and delicious. More than anything, I want to elevate our food system, ensuring no one feels left out of life’s sweetest moments. Because food isn’t just food — it’s connection.
What’s one of the biggest professional challenges you’ve overcome?
Building Bare Life while managing my health has been one of my biggest challenges. It taught me to pace myself, anticipate challenges, and lean on the right people — lessons that carry over into every obstacle we face.
From supply chain disruptions to outgrowing co-manufacturers, we adapt, problem-solve, and keep delivering the nostalgic treats our customers love.
How are you involved in the community?
Through Bare Life, I’m working on reimaging our food system — making allergen-friendly treats more accessible so no one feels a sense of “otherness” in their community. That mission drives everything we do, from sustainable sourcing to planting trees.
Beyond Bare Life, I serve as reSET’s board chair and guest lecture at UConn’s YSEALI Program, helping empower the next generation of changemakers.
What are your keys to maintaining business success?
Building a business isn’t a solo sprint — it’s a marathon. While I have no desire to run in one, I know success comes from years of learning, adapting, and the right team supporting you.
Our success comes from our marathon team — our people, asking for help, learning from others, and growing together.