Trailblazers & Changemakers: Celebrating the Female Visionaries Shaping Our World

Women’s History Month is a time to recognize the trailblazers, innovators, and changemakers who have shaped our past and continue to illuminate the path forward. We’re celebrating by shining a light on some of our remarkable partners—women who are breaking barriers, challenging convention, and redefining leadership in their own inspiring ways.

We sat down with Kat Hantas, founder of 21 Seeds Tequila and our partner for a mindful mixology class at 1 Hotel San Francisco; Dr. Betty Dilley, founder of Vitality Kaua’i at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, where they offer services from IV therapy to medical aesthetics and are pioneering new conversations around longevity and holistic wellness; and Sophie Hessler, founder of Woof Wellness, who brings her rescue puppy yoga classes to our sanctuaries in Nashville and New York, promoting pet wellness and connection.

From redefining the spirits industry to blending science with holistic wellness, and championing self-care for people and pets alike, these founders are transforming their fields with passion and purpose. As they share their journeys, inspirations, and the wisdom gained along the way, they remind us that true progress happens when we lift each other up, embrace fearless ideas, and lead with intention.

Kat Hantas, Founder of 21 Seeds, on Redefining Spirits 

21 Seeds is more than just a tequila brand—it’s a movement toward redefining how we enjoy spirits. What inspired you to create a tequila infused for a new kind of drinker?

We created 21 Seeds for a drinker the market had yet to recognize. At the time, tequila was mostly positioned for sipping or shots. But we saw a different kind of tequila lover—one who preferred spritzes with a splash of juice or a light mixer. Yet, no product existed that truly delivered that fresh, real fruit flavor. That’s where 21 Seeds Infused Tequila came in. Made with the juice of real fruit, our varietals—Cucumber Jalapeño, Grapefruit Hibiscus, and Valencia Orange—are crafted for effortlessly delicious cocktails.

Entrepreneurship in the spirits industry has long been male-dominated. What challenges did you face as a woman launching an alcohol brand, and how did you navigate them?

We were true outsiders in the spirits industry—none of us had prior experience in alcohol, but we understood the female consumer: where she shopped, how she discovered brands, and what she was looking for. In meetings with distributors and retailers, we found ourselves advocating for an overlooked yet highly valuable consumer: women, specifically moms, in the tequila market.

International Women’s Day is about empowerment and celebrating progress. What does this day mean to you, and how do you see 21 Seeds playing a role in uplifting women?

We are incredibly proud to be a female-founded brand and to have made history as the largest female-founded spirits acquisition when Diageo acquired us in March 2022. Being an industry outsider is a strength because you can challenge the status quo that holds others back. We hope our story inspires other female leaders to follow their curiosities and not to fear what they don’t yet know.

Dr. Betty Dilley, Founder of Vitality Kaua’i at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay on Longevity & Wellness

Vitality Kauaʻi blends science and nature to help guests feel their best. What makes your approach unique, and what are some of the most transformative treatments you offer?

At Vitality Kaua’i, we combine cutting-edge medical advancements with a respect for natural, holistic wellness. Our location at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay inspires us to harness both the power of modern science and the healing elements of nature. Some of our most transformative treatments include IV vitamin therapy for rapid nutrient replenishment, hormone optimization to restore balance from within, and regenerative aesthetics utilizing PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) to naturally stimulate collagen and skin renewal. And because longevity is at the core of what we do, we emphasize VO2 max testing, which the American Heart Association recommends as a key indicator of health and longevity.

Throughout your journey in medicine, wellness, and entrepreneurship, have there been any women leaders, whether in your industry or beyond, who have inspired you? What lessons have you taken from them?

Absolutely. I’ve always been inspired by women who challenge the status quo and carve their own paths. In medicine, Dr. Sara Gottfried and Dr. Pamela Smith have been pioneers in women’s health and hormone optimization, showing that science and lifestyle medicine go hand in hand. Outside of medicine, I have always admired Dolly Parton. She has shown me the power of resilience, creativity, and believing in your vision even when others don’t see it yet. And the biggest lesson I’ve taken away from women leaders is that success is about stepping forward with confidence, learning as you go, and staying true to your mission.

As we celebrate Women’s International Month, what message do you want to share with women looking to step into their power, whether in business, wellness, or beyond?

Your power is already within you. It’s just a matter of owning it. Whether you’re starting a business, prioritizing your health, or making a big life change, don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Take the first step, trust your intuition, and surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take up space. The world needs more women who lead with both strength and heart.

Sophie Hessler, Founder of Woof Wellness, on Pet Wellness

You’ve built Woof Wellness around the idea of deepening the bond between people and their pets. What inspired you to create this unique experience?

My love for fitness and dogs inspired Woof Wellness. I’ve always believed in the connection between physical and mental well-being, and I saw an opportunity to merge that with supporting rescue animals. Living in New York, I witnessed overcrowded shelters and wanted to help, so I created Woof Wellness as a space where people can experience the transformative power of Pilates and yoga, all while connecting with adoptable dogs in need of loving homes.

At Woof Wellness, it's about more than just working out; it's about fostering connections—whether that's through the peaceful flow of a yoga class, the strength built in Pilates, or the unconditional love of a furry friend. The goal was always to create an experience that nurtures the body, mind, and soul, while also giving back to the community by supporting local animal shelters. By uniting humans and rescue dogs through mindful movement, we’re helping to create a stronger bond, not only between people and their pets but also between people and the broader community.

This month, we’re celebrating the incredible ways women shape their communities—including in the world of pet wellness. How do you hope to inspire more women to embrace the joys of pet-friendly living?

I hope that by experiencing Woof Wellness classes, women will feel the unconditional love and joy that animals bring into their lives. My goal is to inspire them to embrace pet-friendly living by showing how pets can be a source of connection, happiness, and wellness.

When we take time for ourselves—physically, mentally, and emotionally—we not only feel better but also create a positive impact on our communities. By combining fitness and animals, I believe we can create a more balanced and joyful life, and encourage more women to live with purpose and love for both themselves and their pets.

International Women’s Day is a time to uplift and celebrate women. Looking ahead, what’s next for Woof Wellness, and how do you hope to continue supporting women in this space?

We’re also excited to announce the launch of our new concept, Serotonin Club. This will feature yoga, pilates, sculpt, and strength classes led by an amazing team of strong women at our studio. While Serotonin Club classes won’t have rescue dogs in attendance, you’re welcome to bring your own pup, who will be cared for by our team while you work out.

With brand-new equipment from Bala, studio upgrades, and innovative classes designed to boost strength, flexibility, and mental well-being, we're here to help you feel your best—inside and out!

We invite you to explore all of the events across our sanctuaries this Women’s History Month, each one thoughtfully designed to celebrate women, foster connection, and inspire community.