Meet Gianna Malatrasi | Founder/CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gianna Malatrasi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gianna, is there something you believe many others might not?
“Failure is not an option” This one phrase, which I’m pretty sure we have all heard, read, or seen at some point, is one of the most misleading…at least for me. Failure is essential to success. It is the Yin, to the Yan…it is a needed step for success. Throughout my career in arts and design, I’ve experienced failure in probably every project I’ve been a part of. It does not matter if what you’re doing works or not, part of the creative process is failing and making mistakes. Learning every step of the way, because if not we’re setting ourselves up for repetitive failure. Most of us never learn from what is perfect or without effort. However, stubbornness and ego are human traits that if not controlled can and will hinder us from reaching the success we’ve worked so hard for. With failure comes humbleness, empathy, and new creative highways. We must build upon those to succeed and prosper, never forgetting what it took to reach that level of success. Embrace failure, learn from it, and use it as a tool to better yourself, your profession and in the end your life.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Panza started with just an old family recipe, the will to succeed and dash of crazy to start something from scratch. We wanted to share the love and nurture that we experienced growing up when we cooked with our families. At the same time wanting to create a sweet gourmet snack that was “guilt-free” and a healthy option for anyone that tasted it. After months of testing and many fails – Panza’s unique thin and crispy cookie sticks were born. At the beginning there were only 3 combinations, all centered around guava. Now we have over a dozen flavor combinations, artisan crafted and sourced with top-grade organic ingredients. The Panza is sold in multiple gourmet markets nationwide – including all EREWHON Market stores. Having The Panza has part of the selected group of CPG products accepted into EREWHON Market stores was an incredible achievement for us as a small minority women-owned company. EREWHON is known for being the celebrity-loved marketplace and is extremely selective with any of the products that are available at their stores. Not only does the product have to be of the highest quality, the ingredients must be clean, healthy and organic, but also the feel and look of the packaging needs to have that “it factor” that fits their high-end look and demographic. For a small company this is a huge accomplishment and a true steppingstone for the company’s upward growth.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

If you’re visiting Colorado, Denver will surely be your first stop. Endless breweries, incredible art scene and rooftop sunset views to die for. A show at the imposing Red Rocks Amphitheater should be on anyone’s bucket list. For even more stunning city and Rocky Mountain views, plus world-class hiking, Boulder is the place to go. Find amazing restaurants, all the tech companies you’ll see at Silicon Valley, walk the CU Boulder campus, and go shopping at Pearl St Mall. Head up to the mountains for a world-class ski/snowboarding experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro skier, there’s a slope for you. From local-loved spots and international flare, the vibes at après ski are one-a-kind. Enjoy nature unbounded and untouched anywhere you go. Colorado is a true treasure and will stay with you forever.

If you’re visiting the Palm Beach area, you’re in for a glamour trip. Incredible beaches, multi-million-dollar homes, cars, and yachts. Shops, dining and shows that can rival any European city. There is something for everyone that likes the lux lifestyle. But Boca Raton and the Palm Beaches also offer incredible opportunities for new and upcoming companies. It opens the door to new and international markets and broadens people’s reach into new business ventures. So, whether it is shopping, arts, sports, business, or culinary experiences…Boca Raton and Palm Beach has everything to offer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

My father has been the rock in my life. Even through our rough patches, there was never a moment where I questioned how much he loved me or his commitment to see me and my siblings succeed and happy. Growing up I saw my father live through the ups and downs of life, but his grace and commitment to those he loved never faulted. He set the example of what an honorable gentleman is. Placed our wellbeing above it all and allowed us to find ourselves, find what we truly loved and then shine our own unique light onto the world. My father has always been the voice of reason, of sound advice and, most importantly, of unconditional unselfish love. The person I know will always have my back and wants what’s truly the best for me. For that I’m eternally grateful.

Last but not least, my superhero husband (and business partner), that somehow manages to deal with my crazy ideas and the adventure that is being me every day. His support, acceptance, understanding and unselfishness has made it possible for The Panza and myself to evolve and grow every day.

Website: www.thepanza.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_panza_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-panza

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/panzasticks

Image Credits
Gianna Malatrasi