Meet our team

Founder & Visionary CEO

Jesse Lopez, the founder of Seed to Stomach, is a passionate advocate for sustainable living and community empowerment. With a background in horticulture and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, Jesse has dedicated his career to helping individuals and communities reconnect with the natural world through gardening and homegrown food.

Growing up in the heart of the Arizona desert, Jesse learned early on the value of resilience, resourcefulness, and the beauty of nature. His experiences have shaped his belief in the transformative power of gardening—not just as a means of producing food, but as a way to nurture the soul and strengthen communities.

Before founding Seed to Stomach, Jesse collaborated with various organizations, including his company Horticultural Analytics Global (HORT-AG) and the Imperial Hemp Company (IHC), to innovate eco-friendly solutions such as 3D printed hemp coffins. His work in these fields has underscored the importance of sustainable practices and the need for industry-wide change.

In addition to his horticultural expertise, Jesse boasts an extensive culinary background. He spent many years as a chef, cooking at some of the finest restaurants, including Sullivan's, a double eagle restaurant, and managing the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain property. Jesse was also one of the two founders of the Port of Long Beach Bar and Grill in downtown Long Beach, California. His diverse experience extends to working on movie sets as craft services and catering dozens of events, showcasing his culinary versatility and passion for food.

Jesse's mission with Seed to Stomach is to empower individuals to take control of their food sources, reduce waste, and cultivate a deeper connection with their environment. Through comprehensive guides, engaging stories, and hands-on kits, he aims to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to embrace the joys and benefits of gardening.

In addition to his work in horticulture and the culinary arts, Jesse is an accomplished author. His books, 'If I Knew Then What I Know Now' and 'The Hemp Memoirs,' and also "The Hustler's Handbook" reflect his journey and insights into personal growth, resilience, and the importance of positive influences in shaping one’s life. Jesse's dedication to helping at-risk youth and fostering community bonds is evident in all his endeavors.

Jesse Lopez is more than just a gardener and chef; he is a visionary leader committed to making the world a greener, healthier, and more connected place, one seed at a time.

Chief Operations Officer 

Leah Hotchkiss is the backbone of Seed to Stomach’s operations, a dynamic leader whose unparalleled expertise in business management and operational strategy has propelled the organization to new heights. With over 25 years of experience driving success across industries, Leah brings a level of precision, foresight, and creativity that sets her apart as a true force in the world of business. Her mission is clear: to ensure Seed to Stomach thrives as a beacon of innovation and sustainability.

Leah’s career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements in some of the most competitive sectors. As a regional director at Pure Beauty, she transformed underperforming regions into top-tier markets, pioneering operational systems that increased efficiency while fostering a culture of excellence. Her leadership style is both strategic and empowering, enabling her teams to exceed expectations while delivering measurable results. Leah’s reputation as a trailblazer extends beyond traditional business roles, showcasing her ability to adapt and lead in diverse environments.

Not one to shy away from challenges, Leah expanded her repertoire as a top seller for Doterra Essential Oils, mastering the art of entrepreneurship and customer engagement. Her sales success wasn’t just about numbers—it was about building trust, cultivating relationships, and turning visions into reality. Leah’s ability to connect with people on a personal level while maintaining a sharp focus on business goals has become one of her most defining traits.

Leah’s expertise is grounded in a robust educational foundation in business and administration. This formal training has equipped her with the analytical tools and strategic insight to manage complex organizational structures and lead teams to excellence. Her deep understanding of business operations has made her an invaluable asset to every organization she’s touched, allowing her to excel in roles that demand both big-picture thinking and an eye for detail.

Beyond her remarkable career at Seed to Stomach, Leah has managed several large-scale companies, leaving a legacy of success wherever she’s worked. Her ability to navigate the intricate challenges of corporate leadership and drive results across diverse industries demonstrates a versatility that few can match. Leah’s ability to combine her business acumen with an unwavering commitment to her team’s growth and success is a testament to her extraordinary capabilities as a leader.

As the operations manager at Seed to Stomach, Leah’s impact is transformative. She oversees the company’s day-to-day functions with unmatched precision, ensuring every aspect of the organization aligns with its mission to empower sustainable food habits. Her innovative approaches to business management have streamlined operations, enhanced client experiences, and strengthened the foundation for long-term growth. Leah’s influence is felt in every corner of the organization, from strategic planning to the smallest operational detail.

Leah Hotchkiss is more than an operations manager—she’s a visionary who brings a relentless drive and a deep sense of purpose to everything she does. Balancing her role as a dedicated mother of two boys with her career, Leah exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, passion, and determination. Her presence at Seed to Stomach is not just an asset; it’s a game-changer, propelling the organization toward a future of sustained excellence and impact.

Maria Espinoza is a distinguished expert in botany and horticulture, bringing over 18 years of experience and a profound wealth of knowledge to the Seed to Stomach team. With degrees earned in both the United States and Mexico, Maria has a unique cross-cultural perspective on sustainable agriculture and plant sciences. Her groundbreaking work in breeding new varieties of fruits and vegetables has not only enriched gardens and plates worldwide but also paved the way for women in the horticulture industry.

Maria’s expertise lies in innovation and sustainability. Over her career, she has successfully developed and introduced several new fruit and vegetable varieties, enhancing flavor, resilience, and productivity. Her work has garnered recognition for pushing the boundaries of traditional horticulture while maintaining a strong focus on environmental stewardship. Maria’s passion for creating sustainable solutions extends beyond the lab, as she actively mentors young women entering the field, inspiring the next generation of leaders in agriculture.

A pioneer in organic pest control, Maria has conducted extensive research into eco-friendly methods for managing garden pests. Her studies emphasize the importance of preserving ecological balance while ensuring plant health and productivity. Through her research, Maria has developed natural pest control techniques that are both effective and accessible, empowering gardeners to protect their crops without relying on harmful chemicals.

Maria’s dedication to sustainable gardening and innovation is matched by her commitment to education. She frequently shares her expertise through workshops, lectures, and hands-on training sessions, helping communities and individuals embrace organic gardening practices. Her approach is rooted in the belief that sustainable agriculture is essential for preserving biodiversity and addressing global food challenges.

At Seed to Stomach, Maria Espinoza is a vital force, blending scientific excellence with a passion for teaching and community engagement. Whether she’s developing a new variety of vegetables or guiding gardeners toward organic solutions, Maria’s work reflects her dedication to creating a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

Farrah Eisenhower - Director of Marketing and Special Events

Farrah Eisenhower is a visionary leader and master strategist, serving as the Director of Marketing and Special Events at Seed to Stomach. A dual graduate of UCLA, Farrah holds degrees in Infection Control and Business Administration, a unique combination that reflects her multidisciplinary expertise and innovative approach to her work. Her career spans laboratories and corporate offices, where she has consistently demonstrated excellence in blending scientific knowledge with strategic planning to create impactful outcomes.

Farrah’s influence extends far beyond Seed to Stomach. She is the driving force behind all events held by the Association of American Horticulturists, where she has set a new standard for excellence in event management and community engagement. Her ability to design, organize, and execute large-scale events that inspire and educate audiences has earned her accolades across the horticultural community. Her marketing acumen ensures that every event resonates with audiences, amplifying the mission and vision of Seed to Stomach.

With a background in soil research, Farrah brings a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between soil health and sustainable agriculture. Her expertise has been instrumental in advancing innovative practices at Seed to Stomach, from developing educational programs to promoting awareness about the importance of soil conservation. She also holds a distinguished track record in the cannabis industry, where her contributions to genetics research have paved the way for new, resilient varieties. Her groundbreaking work in this field has been recognized with several industry awards, including the Cannabis Innovator of the Year Award and the Excellence in Horticultural Research Award.

Farrah’s remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with the Horticultural Leadership Award for her outstanding contributions to the horticultural industry, as well as the UCLA Distinguished Alumna Award for her impact in the fields of science and business. Her ability to merge her scientific expertise with business strategy has made her a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences, where she shares insights on sustainability, marketing, and innovation.

As the Director of Marketing and Special Events, Farrah Eisenhower plays a pivotal role in shaping the public presence of Seed to Stomach. Her creativity, leadership, and dedication ensure that every campaign and event not only meets but exceeds expectations. Whether she’s orchestrating large-scale conferences or spearheading cutting-edge marketing initiatives, Farrah’s work continues to elevate Seed to Stomach as a leader in sustainable gardening and community engagement.

Lioran Valtès: Sustainable Garden Landscape Designer

Lioran Valtès is a master of sustainable garden design, blending his expertise in landscape architecture with a deep knowledge of plants and ecological principles. With over 20 years of experience in both research laboratories and the field, Lioran has honed his craft in designing breathtaking garden landscapes that are as efficient as they are beautiful. His innovative approach to sustainable design ensures that each project reflects a balance between human needs and the natural environment.

Born and raised in Europe, Lioran brings a unique perspective to Seed to Stomach, drawing inspiration from the rich horticultural traditions of his homeland. His unparalleled ability to identify plants by sight and understand their growth habits makes him a walking encyclopedia of botanical knowledge. Whether it’s selecting the perfect plants for a region or designing a garden that thrives in harmony with its environment, Lioran’s expertise shines in every project he undertakes.

Lioran’s passion for sustainability extends to water conservation, where he specializes in implementing cutting-edge irrigation systems tailored to specific landscapes. His designs not only optimize water usage but also enhance plant health and growth, making them both eco-friendly and cost-effective. By combining his technical skills with his artistic vision, Lioran creates gardens that are functional, sustainable, and visually stunning.

With his extensive background in laboratory research, Lioran has a deep understanding of plant biology and soil science, allowing him to solve complex gardening challenges with precision and creativity. His hands-on experience in the field has equipped him with practical knowledge that complements his scientific expertise, making him an invaluable resource for clients and colleagues alike. Lioran’s ability to bridge the gap between science and design is what sets him apart in the world of sustainable gardening.

As a key member of the Seed to Stomach team, Lioran Valtès is dedicated to helping clients achieve their gardening dreams while respecting the environment. His innovative designs and wealth of knowledge inspire others to see the potential of sustainable gardening as a means of enhancing both their lives and the planet. Lioran’s work embodies the Seed to Stomach mission: to empower communities to cultivate a better future through sustainable practices and thoughtful design.

Junior Horticulturalist 

Michael Wilson is a dedicated juior expert in sustainable gardening, bringing innovative and eco-conscious approaches to Seed to Stomach. With a passion for cultivating harmony between nature and agriculture, Michael specializes in offering practical advice on eco-friendly planting techniques, tailored to empower individuals and communities to grow their own food sustainably. His work reflects a commitment to preserving the environment while fostering the joy of gardening.

Currently pursuing his degree in botany at the University of Arizona, Michael is at the forefront of understanding plant sciences and their applications in sustainable agriculture. His academic focus allows him to combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on expertise, ensuring his gardening techniques are not only effective but also scientifically grounded. He is particularly interested in exploring plant biodiversity, soil health, and climate-resilient gardening practices.

Michael’s contributions to Seed to Stomach go beyond traditional gardening. He works closely with clients to design personalized garden plans that prioritize water conservation, soil regeneration, and organic methods. His goal is to make sustainable gardening accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience level or available space, by providing solutions that are both innovative and practical.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Michael is actively involved in community initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable living. He believes that gardening is not just about growing food but also about cultivating a deeper connection to the earth. Through workshops, consultations, and educational content, Michael inspires others to see gardening as a tool for environmental stewardship and personal well-being.

Michael’s dedication to sustainability and education makes him an integral part of the Seed to Stomach team. His expertise and enthusiasm for eco-friendly gardening empower clients to embrace a greener lifestyle while contributing to a healthier planet. Whether you're starting a small herb garden or transforming your yard into an eco-friendly oasis, Michael is here to guide you every step of the way.