MATT WARNOCK, HERBAL HEAD HONCHO
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Thinker. Reader. Writer. Outdoorsman. Problem-Solver.
What is your inspiration?
I draw inspiration from nature. Life will survive and thrive under incredible circumstances despite overwhelming challenges. I try to do likewise.
Where are you from?
My parents moved a lot when I was a kid, so I grew up in on the San Francisco peninsula, near Pasadena, in Geneva, Switzerland, and Salt Lake City.
What is your astrological sign?
I am a Gemini. But I am of two minds about it. Or maybe that was somebody else.
Message:
Hi! I'm Matt, the Herbal Head Honcho, and I'm a second-generation owner of RidgeCrest. I joined the Company in 2000 to help out my dad and loved it so much I bought the company (or something like that). I'm married to the love of my life, Carol, and we have three daughters with growing families of their own. Two of my girls live near me with their families in Utah, and the other lives in Indiana with her hubby. My motto for life is simple: If you ain't havin' fun, you're probably doin' it wrong.
WILL CHRISTENSEN, GINGER BEARD OF POWER
(CEO)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
People Person. Freethinker. Father. Husband. Activist.
What is your inspiration?
I love to make my own. Nature and plants, especially trees, inspire me. Friendships are inspiring above all.
Where are you from?
South Salt Lake City.
What is your astrological sign?
Virgo. I am very pure. ;-D
Message:
I am Will, the “Ginger-Beard of Power” around here, otherwise known as the President of RidgeCrest Herbals. I have spent all of my adult life and a good part of my youth in the natural products industry. Some of my favorite memories come from my work in a good old-fashioned health food store when I was a teen. As I gained knowledge and found that my desire and a little bit of know-how could impact a person’s health and quality of life, I knew I would always be drawn to natural living. I was lucky to fall in with the amazing people here who have helped me learn and get "in tune." That help has been priceless.
MELISSA, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Positive. Amiable. Adventurous. Witty. Resourceful.
Where are you from?
I was born in Seattle, then lived in Hong Kong, New York, back to Washington State, Idaho for a time, and now Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
Sagittarius.
Message:
I am Melissa, I have been with RidgeCrest as the Office Manager for over two years. I love my family, animals, traveling, and my garden. I have never had a mosquito bite, and I don't like to camp. Writing this makes me feel like I am writing a dating profile, which makes me very happy I am married. I hope you decide to swipe right!
BRITTINI GEHRING, HERBAL GAIA
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Considerate. Creative. Nature Lover. Mother. Vibrant.
What is your inspiration?
I am inspired by the beauty, fresh air, and sunshine of the outdoors, by the efforts and success of unexpected people, by watching my children grow into who they are becoming, and by the inner voice deep inside of me that is always encouraging me.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Utah by young hippies who taught me love, respect, and consideration for all things.
What is your astrological sign?
Libra-Scorpio Cusp.
Message:
Hey, Readers! Welcome! I'm Brittini (you can call me Britt), Herbal Gaia, Master Herbalist, and an old face at RidgeCrest as I have been here for 15 fun years! I am the Chief Botanical Officer, which means if it has anything to do with a botanical, it involves me, from formulation to quality! Outside of work, I have a growing family (current count: 13, plus a handful of fur babies) that keeps me pretty grateful and amused. I thrive on change and learning! I am fascinated with energy, the subconscious mind, smiling at strangers, and the contrast between pain and joy. I love all things nature, outdoor activities, leg day, public speaking, and dynamic perspectives. Check out my story in our 2017 Almanac about how a pair of beautiful ancient Indian burial moccasins divinely set me on a path to becoming a Master Herbalist! And hey, don't be a stranger! Email me anytime at brittini@rcherbals.com to say hi, ask me herbal questions, share your wisdom and "feels" for the day, or make a new friend!
CHRIS HERBERT, CHIEF SALES OFFICER
(CSO)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Family man. Hard-worker. Competitive. Funny. Analytical. Reliable.
Where are you from?
Born & grown in Memphis, Tennessee. I’ve also lived in Louisiana, Minnesota, Colorado, and currently Texas.
What is your astrological sign?
Gemini.
Message:
Hi, Y'all! I'm Chris, Sales Director for RidgeCrest Herbals, and I've been with the company for over ten years and within the Natural Products Industry for 22 years. I live in Austin, Texas, with my beautiful wife, three boys (11,9,7), and our sweet pup. I love being outdoors, going on family hikes, playing sports with my sons, and enjoying an evening with my wife watching movies, talking about our dreams and aspirations, and playing board games.
NICHOLE PETERSEN,
MAGICAL MARKETING MILLENNIAL
(Marketing Director)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Wilderness Enthusiast. Artist. Bookworm. Spiritual Alchemist. Mother.
What is your inspiration?
The miracles of nature inspire me.
Where are you from?
Good ol' Salt Lake City, Utah!
What is your astrological sign?
Scorpio.
Message:
I'm Nichole, the Magical Marketing Millennial. I joined RidgeCrest in 2016. I have an extensive background in the natural products industry, from a small mom & pop shop all the way to my current position. I love the outdoors, art, reading, gardening, spirituality, and my family.
My blended family is made up of my partner, our sons, Viktor and Leon, daughters, Violet and Jocelyn, and our array of critters: Zahra, the Corgi-mix, Fearne, the Golden Retriever, Essek, the tuxedo cat, Caduceus, the fluffy lion cat, Kima, our dragon gecko, and Kiki, our candy cane cornsnake. I love spreading positivity where I can and participating in mindfulness exercises. The Earth is my grounding space, and I enjoy playing in its endless expanse.
ASPEN, THE PLANGANIZER
(Project Manager)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Empath. Introvert. Grounded. Mother.
What is your inspiration?
October storms, the smell of campfire or rain, mountain air, the laughter of my son, an iced coffee and a cool drive, train horns in the distance, Bo Burnum's Inside, and a pug named Noodle who may or may not have bones...
Where are you from?
Lake Point, Utah, where I watched the sunset over the Great Salt Lake every night growing up.
What is your astrological sign?
On the cusp of Cancer.
Message:
Hi, everyone! I'm Aspen, RidgeCrest Herbals' Project Manager. I joined the company in early 2017. My son, Pip, is the love of my life and gets me invited to all the cool kindergarten parties. Since my two older brothers moved in with me to help co-parent in 2021, we've been living that Full House life. I love TikTok, gardening, psychology, organizing, dismantling the patriarchy, baking, and embroidery.
Heather, PR Priestess
(aka Public Relations)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Compassionate, Adventurer, Human Rights Defender, Live Music Lover, Diligent…and my daughter says I’m peevish.
What is your inspiration?
My daughter. She’s living her best life, bravely & unapologetically. I’m so proud of her!
Where are you from?
I was born in Utah, spent my childhood/teenage years in Northern CA, went back to Utah for my 20/30’s and am now spending my 40’s in WA, just outside of Seattle and am LOVING it.
What is your astrological sign?
Aquarius, through & through!
Favorite herb & why?
Easy, cilantro. It’s DELICIOUS. Medicinally, my favorite is Ashwagandha. There are just SO many benefits.
Message/About yourself:
I was the Fulfillment Manager at RidgeCrest for nearly 10 years. I then went on to study and practice Massage Therapy, Reiki and became a Spa Director. I returned to RidgeCrest because I believe in the brand, use the products, and love the people I work with! I’m in Public Relations now, and I’m excited to build relationships with the media, engage with our audiences, and promote our message of wellness. I’m also the 3rd generation at RidgeCrest Herbals, which is pretty cool!
SCOTT VANZALINGE, LORD OF LOGISTICS
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Outdoorsman. Health conscious. Archer. Father. Curious.
What is your inspiration?
This year, being more health conscious is what has driven my creativity, I've been cooking a lot - sous vide, grilling, making bone broth and soups, as well as using nothing but whole ingredients in most of my recipes.
Where are you from?
I am from Salt Lake City, Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
Taurus
Message:
Hi, I'm Scott, Lord of Logistics for Ridgecrest Herbals. I've been a part of the team since 2015, and love working for such a great company. I have a son, Duggan. His favorite thing about my job is our annual company campout, and it is a great deal of fun. I love to read and listen to podcasts, mostly about business, history, and politics. I enjoy outdoor activities including hiking and disc golf. It's my curiosity in everything that drives me to be a lifelong learner who loves to experience unique cultures and try new things.
SHAE, CUSTOMER SERVICE QUEEN
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Creative. Kind. Nature-lover. Compassionate. Goddess.
What is your inspiration?
My inspiration is drawn by always trying to grow, learn, and be my best.
Where are you from?
Mt. Pleasant, Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
My sign is Cancer in Greek astrology. It is Woodpecker/Salmon in Native American astrology.
Message:
I am Shae, your Customer Service Queen, and I am a licensed massage therapist. I am married with three fur babies. I am passionate about helping & educating others, and about life, love, and honesty. I am a creative light at heart and enjoy learning new things. I am an herb nerd, hippy, kitchen witch, fairy creature, goddess on a mission to love, be happy, and help others awaken to their inner light.
MEAGAN, AR/AP TREASURE DRAGON
(AR/AP)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Direct. Honest. Young Hearted. Mother. Truth Seeker.
What is your inspiration?
Watching people grow and better themselves. Nature never ceases to amaze me.
Where are you from?
Born and raised in Centerville, Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
Sagittarius.
Message:
My name is Meagan, I recently moved from being the Customer Service Mermaid and evolved into the Accounts Receivable Treasure Dragon. I am so grateful to work for a company that has allowed me to a work from home so I can be with my now 2-year-old daughter, Luna. I enjoy world traveling and have been to Japan several times. In my free time I like to watch cartoons, collect nostalgic toys, playing games, and spending time with my family, friends, and animals.
JOSH, PIXEL PUSHING DIGITAL WIZARD
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Artistic, Chill, Jack of a lot of Trades, Mountain Man
Or Just a dude, playing a dude, disguised as another dude.
What is your inspiration?
I draw inspiration from nature, art, and my beautiful daughter.
Where are you from?
Born and raised in Utah. Lived in Orlando, FL as well.
What is your astrological sign?
Straight up Cancer
Message/About yourself:
I am a rootin-tootin’, outdoorsin’, art creatin’, photography takin’ son of a gun.
RAYMOND KING, APPRENTICE MARKETING MAGICIAN
(Digital Marketing)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
I'm a world traveler, a creative, a culturalist, a socialite, and a netizen.
What is your inspiration?
I'm inspired by the abundance of plants, animals, and minerals that exist here on earth and the unlimited potential humanity has to create with it all.
Where are you from?
Born and raised in Park City, Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
Aquarius.
Hello, I'm Raymond, the living ray of sunshine! I'm the Apprentice Marketing Magician aka Assistant Marketing Director at RidgeCrest Herbals. I'm responsible for assisting the marketing team to execute their plans and meet objectives. I've spent years studying abroad in rural countries across Central and South America, learning and living with indigenous and modern people from a variety of cultures. I am a child of the earth, and I have loved outdoor recreation and wilderness exploration since I was very young. I grew up in Park City, Utah skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and exploring abandoned mines with my father. I am a yogi, a reiki practitioner, a fire dancer, an herb and crystal nerd, and a life coach to my closest friends and peers. I am constantly inspired by nature, the abundance of plants, animals, and minerals that exist here on earth, and the unlimited potential humanity has to create with it all!
NINA, MULTITASKER IN THE CLOUD
(AKA DIGITAL PERSONAL ASSISTANT TO MATT WARNOCK)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Logical thinker. Practical. Adventurous. Nature lover. Thoughtful. Mother.
What is your inspiration?
My inspiration comes from the Universe. Mother Nature knows best and her intuition is never wrong!
Where are you from?
I’m from Belgrade, Serbia, all the way in Europe!
What is your astrological sign?
Sagittarius, rising Taurus
Message:
Hi all! I joined the RidgeCrest family end of 2022 and I absolutely love working with this amazing group of people! I grew up in Malta (a small island in the Mediterranean), and studied business in Paris, France after which I came back to my hometown in Serbia and have been living here for over 10 years now. I’m a mom of 1 (almost 2) babies, and I love going for walks and adventures with my family - but most of all I love spending time in the kitchen and creating new ways to put smiles on my family’s faces!
HALEY, SPENDING SPRITE
(aka AR/AP Clerk )
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Community Driven. Creative. Friendly. Flexible. Reliable.
What is your inspiration?
I am inspired by the instinctual way humans get together to make something bigger than themselves, as well as authenticity, integrity, and expression.
Where are you from?
I am from Orem, Utah and I live in Salt Lake City.
What is your astrological sign?
February Pisces Sun
Message/About yourself:
I am Haley. I am an artist, a lover of people, and a huge nerd. I've done all sorts of work; from illustration, to design, to social media management, retail management, and more. I am thrilled to join this team and carve out a niche.
ALLISON, CSR ENIGMATIC ENTITY
(Customer Service)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Fun-loving, kind, compassionate, and boy-mom who loves to read and go on adventures!
What is your inspiration?
People around me-watching how they take on daily events and learning from them...as well as the beauty and joy that can be found around us.
Where are you from?
I am from a little bit of all over the place. Born in Seattle, moved to Hong Kong, then NewYork. Spent most of my school years in Spokane, Washington then moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho for a few years. From there up to Jackson, Wyoming but I am now back in Ogden, Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
Libra and all the fantastic things that go along with it!
Message:
My name is Allison and I love talking to people. I am the mother to an amazing active son so we get to do all sorts of cool stuff. He plays Hockey which has been an amazing sport to watch him grow in. I spend my extra time on the weekends volunteering at the local Animal shelter trying to show a little love to some just incredibly deserving animals who are just looking for a place of their own.My favorite way to relax is to sit down and immerse myself in a book. I love to read. I moved from Idaho to Utah recently and am loving all the hiking trails near our home and will actively try to convert the squirrels in my new yard to be my friends by the end of the summer!
JORDAN, PRINCE OF PACKAGES
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Geek, Funny, Gamer, Prospector, Outdoorsman
What is your inspiration?The forest, I am inspired by all the unique plants and creatures that live there.
Where are you from?
I'm from Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
Leo
Message:
Hello! I’m Jordan and I do order fulfillment for RidgeCrest. I started working for the company in 2018. I’m currently in the process of going back to school for computer science and I'm an avid gamer. I come from a family of five, and I’m the middle child with two sisters that I love. I hope to one day have a family of my own. When I get the chance, I like to go up to the mountains and prospect for gold - I got the fever!
TYSON, SALES MUSTACHE
(Sales)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Nerd, Empath, Comedian, Jack of some Trades
What is your inspiration?
Space and the stars, The earth and her knowledge.
Where are you from?
Layton, Utah
What is your astrological sign?
I'm a Leo!
Backstory:
I was born into a good household, grew up, went to school and did all the things that a young lad were to do, but something just never sat right with me. One day whilst doing my day to day NPC work at the local Gas stop, an opportunity had arisen, to be a salesman! But that life of light hearted sales turned swiftly into a tale of piracy and telling tales of falsehoods and deception. This did not sit right with the young traveler after finding love along the way and having a child to raise, I left that life to work with the local herbalists and learn a trade based in helping people instead, and here I am working with RidgeCrest Herbals.
MITZY, THE WAREHOUSE WITCH
(Warehouse Coordinator)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Extrovert, mother, daughter, good cook, non-judgmental, non-confrontational.
What is your inspiration?
My memories of the two most important people in my life.
Always be willing to learn more about what I have poor knowledge of.
Where are you from?
Santiago, Chile
What is your astrological sign?
Taurus
Message:
Hi, my name is Mitzy! I work with the warehouse peeps, I try to always have a smile on my face, even in hard times. I highly dislike talking politics and other confrontational topics. I believe in respect of opinion. I'm a mother of 3 and love my kids more than any words could describe.
I'm a true believer in the importance of loyalty and trust.
AUSTIE, CUSTOMER SERVICE EXTRATERRESTRIAL
(AKA CUSTOMER CARE REPRESENTATIVE)
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Nice, Honest, Charming, Yogi in training, animal lover and stargazer.
What is your inspiration?
The kindness in humans and the beauty of animals.
Where are you from?
Mount Pleasant, Utah
What is your astrological sign?
Libra
Favorite herb & why?
Ginger,my tummy often needs it!
Message/About yourself:
I am Austie, I am the youngest daughter of three girls. I live in beautiful Sanpete County, Utah.
I love practicing Yoga and Meditation. I love spending any free time I get outside in nature getting muddy. Animals have a very special place in my heart, I think we can learn a lot from them. I'm in the pursuit of happiness. Leave things better than when you found them!
BIRDY,
CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST
Creative, optimistic, outdoorsy, animal/nature-loving, friendly, hippy/witch
What is your inspiration?
A lot of my inspiration comes from nature! The mysteries and beauty of our world are an ever-expanding source of wonder! Artists and musicians also inspire me! Seeing how people express themselves and their ideas are deeply moving to me.
Where are you from?
My parents are from Heber, Utah, and Cokeville, Wyoming. They met at a local dance and escaped their crowded families by moving to Salt Lake City and starting their own family of five. I’ve lived with my parents and two older brothers in small cities from Eagle Mountain and Lindon to Holladay and downtown Salt Lake City, but always in Utah.
What is your astrological sign?
I’m a Scorpio!
Message:
Hello, my name is Birdy! I’m a customer service representative for Ridge Crest Herbals! I’ve always found meaning and joy in customer service. Being able to be part of a local company that cares about people and the environment means a lot to me! I’m very passionate about humankind's stewardship of nature and our responsibility to create a future where all beings and ecosystems can thrive! I also love to be out in nature walking, hiking, camping, and traveling with my wonderful husband, Nick, and our nine-year-old shepherd mix, Jesse. I’m an artist who loves to dabble in various creative pursuits, from digital art to stained glass! I’m also a big nerd who loves fantasy novels, playing Dungeons and Dragons, watching horror movies, and playing video games. My favorite motto is: "It’s never too late to be what you might have been."
SOPHIE, THE PASTEL POSTING PIXIE
SOCIAL MEDIA
What words do you use to describe yourself?
Easy going. Personable. Positive. Good Listener. Encouraging. Good Communicator. Persevering. Creative. Open Minded.
What is your inspiration?
I’m inspired by those around me that are living happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. I strive to be happy in life and to make the people around me happy as well. I hope to leave a legacy of kindness and gentleness to all that I meet.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. Don’t let the state fool you. My city has the highest number of total engineering degrees per capita. NASA, the FBI, and Twitch’s headquarters all have offices in Huntsville.
What is your astrological sign?
My astrological sign is Capricorn.
Message/About yourself:
Hi there, lovely! My name is Sophie. I enjoy video gaming, all things kawaii/pastel, cooking, crafting, makeup, cosplay, and creating social media content. I am a forearm crutch user/wheelchair user, as I was born with a birth defect called Spina Bifida. My birth defect mostly affects my right leg and back. I am going to school for Visual Communications: 3D Modeling and Animation. I am in my last semester of college and plan to graduate with an Associate Degree in May. I'm excited to be working for Ridgecrest!
Would you like to join us? We're a third-generation family business with a close-knit, but diverse and far-flung extended team. We're always looking for talented and dedicated local field representatives. Send your resume to Will Christensen by emailing will@rcherbals.com, or call (801) 978-9633.