Mamava’s journey began with a frustration that Sascha Mayer and her co-founder, Christine Dodson, were all too familiar with: 

Where could mothers find privacy, cleanliness, and comfort while breastfeeding or pumping outside the home? 

Inspired by their own experiences trying to continue to breastfeed while going about their lives, and by the needs they saw not only in workplaces, but also in public spaces, these two mothers turned their personal solution into a scalable product: Mamava Pods. 

The Magic of Seeing a Problem and Solving It

Mamava’s lactation Pods provide a safe, clean, and convenient solution for breastfeeding or pumping in airports, stadiums and shopping malls—and other work places (some you might not expect!). These self-contained, private lactation spaces became a lifeline for mothers—but today, they’re also a symbol of how seeing and solving your own problem can also help countless others. 

With this seemingly simple invention, Mayer and Dodson created a whole new space in the market, which speaks to an even bigger truth: The best innovations often start by identifying a problem—usually a personal one—and solving it in a way that can scale.

To Mayer and Dodson, Mamava wasn’t just about inventing a new product; it was about responding to a need that often goes overlooked. 

If there’s one thing Mamava’s story teaches us, it’s that sometimes the most effective ideas come from solving a problem you personally face. By focusing on a need that they knew intimately, Sascha and Christine could approach it from a fresh, authentic perspective. This level of dedication led to a product that isn’t just about providing privacy, but about respecting mothers and their needs; not just a convenient space, but a statement on the value of inclusivity in modern workplaces—and the enhancement of public spaces that benefit everyone.

Partnerships and Serendipity: Key Ingredients for Growth

Mamava’s path wasn’t a solitary one. This story sprouted its roots in Vermont—a state known for small-town charm, a strong sense of community, and increasing startup support. It may not be Silicon Valley, but the Green Mountain State offers a collaborative spirit and a startup ecosystem uniquely conducive to creativity and connection, as well as a close-knit business community that Mayer and Dodson leaned into collaboration to fuel Mamava’s growth.

Strategic partnerships like these quickly became a cornerstone of their business model as they connected with experts in design, technology, and manufacturing to bring their vision to life. This open approach led to some unexpected and essential developments—like Mamava’s tech-enabled breastfeeding Pods that allow users to locate, access, and reserve them through a mobile app. The Mamava app also created an unexpected network for moms on the go, forming a digital community that extends beyond the Pods themselves. 

It’s these kinds of collaborations, combined with a bit of serendipity, that have allowed Mamava to go beyond what Sascha Mayer and Christine Dodson initially envisioned.

The Power of a Simple Solution

The potential of their product also extended far beyond the locations they were originally thinking of when they designed it, like travel hubs and shopping centers; some of their biggest success stories have come from unexpected places, like schools, factories, corporate offices, college campuses, and even stadiums. All of these organizations saw this new innovation and quickly realized the tremendous value of creating a more inclusive and family-friendly environment.

The surprising part was how eagerly companies across industries embraced these Pods to support mothers in their own unique settings, proving that businesses in every sector can play a part in addressing the diverse needs of working parents. This reach into new markets reveals that Mamava’s breastfeeding Pods are more than just a convenience—they’re a vital step toward a more inclusive, human-centered world. 

When businesses pay attention to this level of personal need for individuals—employees and customers alike—a bond of gratitude is made that makes the relationship stronger. (That is the Gratitude Economy working at its best!)

A Model for the Future

Today, Mamava continues to innovate and expand, showing that a company founded on empathy and personal experience can go a long way. Their journey demonstrates how addressing simple need that you understand—like offering privacy and comfort to breastfeeding mothers—can blossom into a global movement for change.

Through their journey, Sascha Mayer and Christine Dodson have not only redefined how we think about breastfeeding in public, but also paved the way for a future where work, family, and community are more harmoniously connected, and breastfeeding mothers can be included more easily.

Mamava deserves not only our applause, but also our continued support as they lead the charge toward a more kind and thoughtful world. Theirs is not just a business success story; it’s a story about community, collaboration, and the serendipitous discovery that happens when you build and innovate with purpose and passion in your heart. 

• Website: Mamava
• Podcast: Taylor Zehren’s CoG Episode #192
• Video: First Follower: Leadership Lessons from Dancing Guy

• 00:00 – Intro & Welcome
• 02:21 – Origin Story of Mamava
• 07:28 – Vermont’s Business Culture
• 10:29 – Adaptability in Spaces
• 12:13 – Privacy in Pumping Spaces
• 16:20 – Creating a Comfortable Space
• 20:25 – Design Approach to Lactation Spaces
• 25:27 – Break
• 27:42 – Sasha’s Background and Journey
• 32:04 – Building the Team
• 38:00 – Turning Setbacks into Growth
• 43:03 – Words of Support App Feature
• 45:53 – Celebrating Wins in Business
• 48:20 – Serving B2B and End Users
• 53:00 – Sasha’s Grandmother’s Influence
• 55:55 – Reflecting on Privilege and Responsibility
• 58:10 – Key Advice for Innovators
• 01:00:25 – What You Can Do Next
• 01:02:00 – Closing