In this powerful episode of Women Who Make It, host Angela Dodd sits down with Julie Smolyansky — CEO of Lifeway Foods, filmmaker, activist, entrepreneur, and mother — whose story is nothing short of extraordinary. At just 27, Julie became the youngest female CEO of a publicly traded company following the sudden passing of her father. What could have been a moment of collapse instead ignited a career shaped by resilience, purpose, and a relentless commitment to using business as a vehicle for change.

Julie shares how her upbringing as a first-generation daughter of Soviet immigrants shaped her grit, work ethic, and belief that pain can be transformed into purpose. She reflects on building Lifeway from a small cultural product into a global wellness brand, and how authenticity — not perfection — became her leadership superpower.

But Julie’s impact extends far beyond kefir. She opens up about her journey into advocacy and documentary filmmaking, producing The Hunting Ground, On the Record, and The Home Stretch — works that sparked national conversations and real policy change around sexual violence and survivor support. Her nonprofit work with Test 400K helped reform rape kit legislation nationwide, demonstrating how business skills can meaningfully influence social justice.

Julie also shares the story behind her newest venture: Burd Beauty, a clean, purpose-driven haircare brand co-founded with her teenage daughters, Misha and Leah. Blending entrepreneurship, empowerment, and activism, Burd Beauty donates to teen dating and domestic violence prevention. Julie discusses what it’s like building a new generation of female founders — and what working with family has taught her about leadership, boundaries, and communication.

This episode is a masterclass in turning leadership into legacy and business into impact. Julie’s journey is a reminder that resilience is generational, advocacy is essential, and women can define success far beyond the bottom line.