Meet Elexia Roberson | Founder of SMARTY OATS & Junior at Arizona State University

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

Hi Elexia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business has always been a dream of mine since I was a little girl. Growing up, both of my parents were personal trainers and were very involved in the world of health and fitness, which greatly influenced me. In the summer of 2021, I became a personal trainer at the age of 20 while studying Nutrition at Arizona State University. While studying Nutrition, I realized that when I graduate, I do not want to work under someone, and that I want to be my own boss. I knew I wanted to create a product that is healthy, affordable, and convenient for everyone while giving back to my community, but the big question was what the product would be. After many months of brainstorming, I finally came up with my product after delivering a speech on the importance of breakfast for college students in my public speaking class. In the speech, I talked about quick and easy breakfast options for college students, overnight oats being one of them. The feedback and questions my peers had about overnight oats were overwhelming, and that is what sparked my idea. At first, I had some self-doubt about how I, a 20-year-old college student, would make it happen, but I overcame that self-doubt with support from friends and family, listening to motivational podcasts, and doing lots of online research. It took many months of hard work and dedication to create the recipes, packaging, website, and strategies marketing all by myself that I would use to make my business successful. There were times when I felt lost, like I had no idea what to do or who to ask, and there were times when I felt unstoppable. Looking back, I am extremely grateful for the entire process and everything I have learned so far. I still have much more to learn about the food industry and business world, and I can’t wait!

What should our readers know about your business?
What sets Smarty Oats apart from other brands is that it gives back to the community. I volunteer at Pitchfork Pantry, a student led food bank for ASU students on behalf of Smarty Oats. There, I donate some of my products as well as participate in handing out food and personal hygiene items to fellow ASU students who come to the pantry. I love giving back to my community because I love helping others as well as getting to know and connecting with everyone. Another thing that sets Smarty Oats apart is there is a Superfood Veggie & Fruit Blend included that way customers can work towards their protein, fiber, and vegetable and fruit intake all in one.

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?
I would take them to some of my favorite restaurants such as Sunshine Breakfast Bar for breakfast, Blanco Tacos, Flower Child, Cava, and Sauce for lunch, and Parama Italian Roots, and AZ88 for dinner. In the afternoons, we would definitely go hiking on Camelback Mountain or Pinnacle Peak. and do some shopping at the Scottsdale Quarter or Fashion Square. At night, we would go out for drinks in old town. We might even take a day trip to ride ATV’s around Sedona and/or go snowboarding in Flagstaff depending on the season.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate a shoutout to my public speaking class, parents, grandparents, boyfriend, and the Motivation Daily podcast by Motiversity for inspiring me and being a part of the business’ success.

Website: www.smartyoats.store

Instagram: @smartyoats

Facebook: smarty oats

Other: TikTok: smartyoats