Meet our team

Founder & Visionary

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,' 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.

Operations Manager

Leah Hotchkiss is the operations manager at Seed to Stomach, bringing with her a wealth of experience and expertise in business management and bookkeeping. With over 25 years of management experience, Leah is a seasoned business expert dedicated to ensuring smooth and efficient operations within the organization.

Leah's professional background spans various industries, with a significant tenure in the beauty and cosmetics sector. She served as a regional director at Pure Beauty, where she honed her skills in leadership, strategic planning, and operational efficiency. Additionally, Leah was a top seller for Doterra Essential Oils as an independent contractor, showcasing her exceptional sales acumen and customer relationship management.

Beyond her professional achievements, Leah is a dedicated mother of two boys. Her ability to balance her career and family life is a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment. Leah's dedication and hard work are evident in every aspect of her role at Seed to Stomach, where she plays a crucial part in driving the company's mission forward.

Leah Hotchkiss's blend of business expertise, management experience, and dedication makes her an invaluable asset to the Seed to Stomach team, contributing to the organization's growth and success.

Experienced in tree planting and maintenance.