Nurturing the Nurturer: How One Female Founder is Revolutionizing Self-Care for Women Who Care for Everyone Else
In the heart of New York City's Lower East Side, Lauren Forsch is on a mission to transform how women approach wellness and self-care. As the founder and CEO of Popped.NYC, she has created more than just another CBD boutique—she's built a sanctuary specifically designed for "The Caregivers' Caregiver," those women who dedicate their lives to caring for others while often forgetting to care for themselves.
Forsch's journey into the CBD wellness space wasn't just about identifying a market opportunity; it was about addressing a deeply personal understanding of the unique challenges women face. From juggling family responsibilities to managing professional demands, women often find themselves at the bottom of their own priority lists. Through Popped.NYC, Forsch is working to change that narrative, one conversation at a time.
Located in one of Manhattan's most diverse neighborhoods, her boutique serves as both a retail space and an educational hub where women can explore CBD wellness in a judgment-free environment. With a focus on science-backed information, personalized consultations, and genuine community building, Forsch is breaking down barriers and building trust in an industry that still faces significant stigma.
In this candid Q&A, Lauren shares her insights on female entrepreneurship in the wellness space, the importance of inclusive health practices, and her practical advice for women ready to prioritize their own well-being—because as she firmly believes, every caregiver deserves care too.
1. What inspired you to create Popped.NYC specifically for "The Caregivers' Caregiver," and how does CBD wellness intersect with the unique challenges women face when caring for others while neglecting their own self-care?
At Popped.NYC, I was inspired by the countless women I met — friends, colleagues, mothers, daughters — who devote themselves to caring for others, yet rarely make space for themselves. I wanted to create a space and a brand that spoke directly to “The Caregivers’ Caregiver”, honoring women’s unique role and reminding them that their well‑being matters too.
CBD became a cornerstone of that mission because it supports relaxation, tension relief, and better sleep — benefits that can make a profound difference for women who carry both emotional and physical burdens every day. At Popped.NYC, we guide women to rediscover self‑care rituals, making CBD an accessible, trusted part of their daily wellness routine.
2. As a female founder in the CBD wellness space, what barriers have you encountered in building trust and credibility with women, especially given the stigma and misinformation that still surround CBD?
Trust is everything when it comes to women’s wellness. The biggest barrier I’ve faced is skepticism rooted in stigma and misunderstanding about CBD. That’s why I built Popped.NYC to educate first, listen deeply, and recommend products only when I’m confident they align with a woman’s individual needs.
I’m passionate about sharing science‑backed information, personal stories, and one‑on‑one consultations that empower women to make informed choices about their bodies. In doing so, I’ve created a space where women feel seen, heard, and supported — a space where trust naturally grows.
3. Your Lower East Side location serves a diverse community — how do you approach wellness inclusively, and what advice would you give to women who are curious about incorporating CBD into their routine but don’t know where to start?
The Lower East Side is a melting pot of people and stories, and I wanted Popped.NYC to reflect that richness. Here, every woman — regardless of background, experience, or age — is welcomed, celebrated, and treated with care.
For those just starting their CBD journey, my best advice is to begin slow, ask questions, and tune into your body. Try a low‑dose oil, a soothing topical, or a mild edible, and notice how you feel. Most of all, approach it with an open heart — CBD can be a beautiful entry point into deeper self‑care.
If you’re ready to take that first step, I’m here to listen, educate, and support you every step of the way. You’re worth it, and your wellness deserves your attention.
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