A serial entrepreneur and outstanding leader, Ryan Niddel serves as the CEO of MIT45. His unwavering commitment, passionate entrepreneurial mindset, and leading-by-example leadership philosophy have played a crucial role in his long-standing professional journey. Up and personal on his journey, Ryan shares briefly about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and making a lasting impact in the Kratom industry.
The Foundation Story behind MIT45
Shawn Brady and Dalton Locke, currently Co-Founders of MIT45 were once partners in a different business based out of Huntington Beach, California. As they considered sun-setting that business, they oversaw packaging products. While they had support staff to help grow it, it was all hands on deck to get orders out. Shawn was in the fulfillment part of the business, packing up products, and his lower back began to hurt. They happened to have employees from Thailand helping package the product. One of the individuals says, “Mr. Shawn,” as they called him, “Please, please take this. It will help you.” Shawn was resistant to this, not knowing what it was, and didn’t want to be high. However, the employee explained that Kratom is a healthy substance that people in Thailand take regularly.
Shawn mixed up raw Kratom leaf powder in water. It didn’t mix well, and it didn’t taste good, but he drank it. Within 30 minutes to an hour, he felt no pain or discomfort. Shawn says to the employee, “This is incredible,” and they go on to have a conversation about Kratom, how it works, and that it’s something people in Thailand have used for centuries and centuries. He shared all this with Dalton, thinking this should be the easiest thing to sell in the world. “This is so incredible! You just take this powder, and it makes you feel better.” Well, there was no sense of awareness of the challenges that would ensue in all aspects of the industry. But that circumstantial meeting is what led to the creation of MIT45 roughly 12 years ago.
All about MIT45’s Product Offerings
• MIT100
1 shot, 100 possibilities
With 100mg of extract in each bottle, MIT100 is made for more versatility, travel, and grab-and-go convenience.
• Gold
The Gold Standard for kratom
With more than 35 million bottles sold, MIT45’s triple-purified liquid extract remains the best on the market and the #1-bestseller.
• BOOST
The BOOST to get stuff done
MIT45 BOOST shots feature its signature liquid kratom extract, plus a boost of plant-based caffeine. For the ultimate kratom energy shot, just reach for the little red bottle.
• BOOST Bites
Take a bite out of your day
Tasty 10mg BOOST Bites kratom gummies are the perfect way to take one’s kratom on the go. Unwrap herbal energy, focus, and clarity, without the bitter taste.
• GO
GO boldly
MIT45 GO is a low-profile kratom extract pouch that helps its buyer to go boldly. Featuring honey, orange, and cinnamon, MIT45 GO pouches can go wherever one goes.
• Super K
Feel the Super K way
For a more pronounced kratom experience, each blue bottle of MIT45 Super K is packed with an impressive 500mg of mitragynine extract.
• Super K ES
Step up to Extra Strong
MIT45’s strongest kratom shot, every purple bottle of Super K Extra Strong features 1,200mg of our triple-purified extract.
• ULTRAMIT
Conquer your day / Conquer your to-do list
The result of over 10 years of expertise, UltraMIT is a premier liquid extract, designed for superior focus and energy support.
• Black Label
Experience the Black Label difference
Every Black Label capsule features a blend of botanicals, each hand-selected to support one’s premium, portable kratom experience.
A Journey of I Came, I Saw, and I Conquered
Given Ryan’s journey and the insights he has gathered, he was driven to step into the kratom industry by a strong desire to not only innovate but also to instill a level of integrity and regulation that was sorely missing. His passion for this field was inspired by the potential he saw in kratom as a natural product that could offer significant benefits when sourced, produced, and distributed responsibly.
From the onset, Ryan’s mission with MIT45 was clear: to set a new standard for quality, consistency, and safety in an industry that was, at the time, largely unregulated. This commitment to excellence and ethical business practices has been the cornerstone of its approach, distinguishing them within the marketplace and earning the trust of consumers and partners alike.
Looking forward, Ryan sees his role not just as a business leader but as an advocate for the responsible use and regulation of kratom. By actively participating in conversations around regulatory standards, engaging with policymakers, and contributing to research, he aims to ensure that kratom is recognized for its potential benefits while safeguarding consumers through best practices and stringent quality controls.
It’s about more than leading a successful company; it’s about championing a cause that Ryan believes in deeply. It’s about demonstrating that when one prioritizes the right things—quality, safety, integrity—one not only creates a sustainable business but also contributes positively to the industry and society at large. This belief in doing the right thing, not just for the customer but for the industry overall, is what drives him every day. It’s how he knows that MIT45 will continue to grow and scale with integrity, setting benchmarks, and leading by example.
As the CEO of MIT45
As an entrepreneur deeply involved in the growth and development of MIT45, Ryan has always believed in tackling challenges head-on and using innovative strategies to navigate the complex business landscape. His journey from solving intricate problems to leading MIT45 underscores his commitment to guiding businesses through their pivotal growth phases.
Ryan’s role extends beyond the confines of MIT45; he is a true entrepreneur passionate about empowering other founders with his extensive knowledge and market insights. Through his LinkedIn posts and the “Playing to Win” newsletter, he aims to share actionable insights and lessons learned from his experiences. This platform is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate their business journeys effectively.
Ryan’s approach is straightforward yet innovative. He focuses on transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, a philosophy that has served him and the company well. His visibility across various media outlets not only amplifies the impact of his work but also solidifies his reputation as a mentor and thought leader within the business community.
As MIT45 advances into 2024, his contributions continue to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs. He is committed to being a pivotal figure for anyone looking to leave a significant mark on the business landscape, sharing the wisdom that has shaped his path and hoping it lights the way for others.
Decoding the Leadership Philosophy
Ryan’s leadership philosophy revolves around fostering a culture of empowerment, accountability, and continuous growth, both for himself and everyone within MIT45. This philosophy is deeply ingrained in his organizational fabric, ensuring that it permeates every aspect of its operations.
First, empowerment is crucial. Ryan believes in trusting his team with autonomy to make decisions, which instills a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their work. This is not just about delegating tasks; it’s about giving them the authority to lead projects, innovate, and drive changes.
Secondly, accountability is a pillar of its work ethic. By setting clear expectations and maintaining open lines of communication, Ryan ensures that everyone understands their roles and the impact of their contributions. This approach fosters a transparent environment where successes are celebrated, and mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities.
Lastly, Ryan emphasizes continuous growth. This includes not just professional development but personal growth as well. He encourages his team to pursue learning, provides them with resources for skill enhancement, and creates an environment that nurtures curiosity and innovation.
Ensuring these principles are reflected throughout the organization involves regular engagement with his team, providing mentorship, and leading by example. He strives to embody these values in his daily actions and decisions, making it clear that they are not just abstract concepts but practical guidelines that drive success. Through consistent communication, feedback sessions, and team-building activities, we reinforce these values, creating a cohesive and resilient organizational culture.
Repeating the Story of Success for Numerous Clients
Some of Ryan’s most notable successes include growing a web hosting company from 10,000 to 600,000 clients, helping grow a custom clothing company to $5 million a year in revenue, and growing a CBD company from 0 to $10 million a year.
Ryan’s proudest achievement is his work with MIT45, where he joined as a strategic consultant in 2019. Since then, the company’s annual revenue increased by 1300% (it is currently rounding the corner to nine figures), and issued shares to all employees, signifying how important it is for them as drivers of its success to benefit from its growth. The company has grown from 50 employees in 2022 to 140 as of the spring of 2024.
Earning a Reputable Name for its USP
To mark a presence in the market, there are many obstacles MIT45 has overcome including transitioning from a B2B model to a direct-to-consumer model, streamlining processes, and optimizing supply chain management.
MIT45 is leading the way in the Kratom industry. The company is working hard to not only develop the most cutting-edge products and formulations but also to challenge misconceptions and promote a global understanding of Kratom’s benefits.
While many Kratom businesses operate in obscurity, MIT45 is committed to transparency, integrity, and guiding customers to success with top-tier products and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The company is mission-driven in every aspect of its business.
Recognizing Talent, Developing Future Leaders
As the CEO, Ryan’s leadership philosophy deeply intertwines with the concept of recognizing and nurturing the talent within the organization. He has always believed that mentorship plays a crucial role in this process, guiding the team members toward realizing their full potential. Here’s how he approaches this integral aspect of MIT45’s corporate culture:
• Fostering a Learning Environment: Ryan advocates for a culture where continuous learning is not just encouraged but celebrated. This means providing the team with the resources they need to expand their skills, pushing for a mindset geared towards constant development, and making sure that it all understands the value of evolving together.
• Tailored Mentorship Programs: Recognizing the unique paths of MIT45’s team members, Ryan has initiated mentorship programs that are as diverse as its people. These programs are designed to align with individual career goals, strengths, and areas for growth, ensuring mentor-mentee relationships that truly resonate and produce tangible outcomes.
• Openness and Communication: Ryan prioritizes keeping the lines of communication open. It’s vital to foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas, challenges, and ambitions. This openness not only strengthens its team’s bond but also allows for the identification and nurturing of hidden talents.
• Empowerment through Responsibility: Handing over meaningful responsibilities to the team members is a practice Ryan swears by. It’s a testament to trust and an opportunity for growth, allowing individuals to step out of their comfort zones, take ownership, and truly shine.
• Leading by Example: Lastly, Ryan believes in being a mentor himself. By sharing his journey, including the setbacks and victories, he aims to inspire resilience, adaptability, and a never-ending pursuit of excellence within their team.
The Achievement Corner
MIT45 has been recognized for its commitment to quality and safety in the Kratom industry. The company is certified by the American Kratom Association and strictly adheres to its Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) every step of the way in the manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and storing of its products. The company has received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from customers and industry experts for its premium products as well.
Overall, Ryan’s philosophy underscores the importance of mentorship, team development, and a relentless pursuit of goals, a belief in the power of perseverance, learning, and adapting as key factors for ongoing growth and success.
Climbing the Ladder to the Top
In guiding MIT45 to new heights, Ryan’s decision-making for advancing the products and services is deeply rooted in a core belief: prioritizing the right thing for its customers and the industry overall, above transactions and revenue. This philosophy isn’t just talk; it’s the cornerstone of how the company operates and grows with integrity.
Here’s how it translates into MIT45’s strategy:
• Listening to its Customers: The company is constantly in dialogue with its customers, understanding their needs, feedback, and how its products impact their lives. This insight guides its innovation and improvement processes.
• Industry Leadership: By focusing on service, the company sets standards in the industry, not just for product quality but for customer interaction, safety, and reliability. It’s about leading by example, showing that success doesn’t have to compromise integrity.
• Continuous Improvement: MIT45’s commitment to service over mere transactions drives the company to continuously refine its offerings. Whether it’s product formulation, packaging, or customer service enhancements, every decision aims to provide more value to its customers.
• Ethical Growth: This approach ensures that MIT45’s growth is sustainable and ethical. By placing service and integrity at the forefront, the company builds long-term trust and loyalty, which are invaluable for its brand’s reputation and longevity.
• Innovation with Integrity: Every step forward in MIT45’s product or service offering is measured against its mantra of doing the right thing. This ensures that its innovations not only meet market demands but do so in a way that upholds its ethical standards.
In essence, MIT45’s growth strategy is not just about expanding its product line or entering new markets; it’s about how the company does it. The company believes that when one consistently does the right thing for its customers and the industry, growth and scale come as natural byproducts, adorned with integrity and respect. This belief is what sets MIT45 apart and what will continue to guide the company as it moves forward.
Getting Future-Ready
Ryan believes MIT45 is going to see wider acceptance of Kratom in the future, especially when taken in reasonable amounts from reputable manufacturers. MIT45 is a driving force behind this trend by taking product safety and purity to another level. They are the only company in the industry committed to zero residuals in its Kratom extracts, starting with a responsible and reliable supply chain that minimizes the presence of contaminants. MIT45 continually refines its Kratom to remove more residual substances, continuing the extraction process until they are unable to detect them.
Looking ahead, MIT45 is looking beyond the Kratom Consumer Protection Act to the next step, focusing on actual Kratom education. The company is looking at what different people want from their Kratom experience, whether it’s to take their workout and fitness routine to the next level, for general relief and recovery, or to make new friends. It may join a gym or online fitness community with other Kratom enthusiasts or discover a local kava/Kratom bar in its neighborhood. For some, Kratom helps with their pursuit of physical fitness and athletic performance, among other hobbies and passions.
Ryan’s Pens His Wisdom to Inspire Budding Entrepreneurs
Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey is one of the most exhilarating yet challenging endeavors you can undertake. As the CEO of MIT45, I’ve navigated through various phases of business growth, and my experiences have taught me invaluable lessons that I believe can benefit budding entrepreneurs.
Firstly, embrace the mindset of continuous learning. The entrepreneurial landscape is perpetually evolving, and staying informed is critical. This means not just understanding your industry inside out but also being aware of the broader business environment. The moment you think you know it all is the moment you fall behind.
Secondly, resilience is key. You will face setbacks. It’s not a matter of if, but when. How you respond to these setbacks defines your path forward. I’ve learned that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth. It’s crucial to maintain focus, adapt, and persist through the highs and lows.
Networking is non-negotiable. Building relationships with other entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry experts can provide you with insights, support, and opportunities that are not available elsewhere. I’ve found immense value in peer groups and mentorship, both as a mentee and a mentor.
Innovation and customer focus should be at the core of your operations. Always look for ways to innovate and improve your offerings. Listen to your customers—they are your most valuable resource for feedback and ideas. Remember, if you do the right thing for the customer and prioritize service over transactions, success will follow.
Lastly, be prepared to take risks. Entrepreneurship is about stepping out of your comfort zone and making decisions that can significantly impact your business. Calculated risks, backed by thorough research and planning, often lead to breakthroughs and progress.
In summary, as a budding entrepreneur, your journey will be filled with learning, challenges, and opportunities. Stay resilient, connected, innovative, customer-focused, and ready to embrace risks. These principles have guided me through my journey with MIT45, helping us grow and scale with integrity. I believe they can do the same for you.
