We caught up with Jaime, the woman behind the much-buzzed-about Schmidt's Deodorant--I'm wearing some right now!--to share the story behind the fresh 'pits.

Hi Jaime! Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Jaime Schmidt, owner of Schmidt's Deodorant. Living in Southeast Portland, I'm also a happy wife and mom to the sweetest 4 year old boy, Oliver.

[caption id="attachment_3336" align="aligncenter" width="300"]Jaime Schmidt, founder of Schmidt's Deodorant Jaime Schmidt, founder of Schmidt's Deodorant[/caption]

How did Schmidt’s Deodorant get started?

I've always pursued natural beauty products, and several years ago I began making them for my family. After a couple years of R&D and testing the highest-quality ingredients available, I finally perfected the deodorant recipe in 2012. When Schmidt's Deodorant hit store shelves, people were shocked that it worked so well--they couldn't get enough of it. Now, thanks to our devoted customers and some very talented employees here at Schmidt's, we've grown quickly into the brand we are today.

Can you tell me about the ingredients in your deodorant? What makes it effective?

It's always been a top priority of ours to source the absolute highest quality ingredients and incorporate the specific functions of each by using very exact ratios. The production not only requires a specific combination of ingredients, but a very careful and "secret" process that gives us the great consistency and hand feel we're looking for.

[caption id="attachment_3338" align="aligncenter" width="300"]Some of our favorite summer beauty essentials Some of our favorite summer essentials, including Schmidt's and the Moon Cup![/caption]

Why is it important to use a deodorant like Schmidt’s instead of a typical antiperspirant?

People tend to be frustrated with conventional deodorant options. They don't always work, often have a sticky feel, and they clog the pores--not only that, but many are loaded with harmful chemicals. Schmidt's allows for the body's natural process of perspiration--we don't include those chemical ingredients that are designed to keep you from sweating--rather, we use plant-based powders and top-quality baking soda to absorb the wetness if you do sweat. These ingredients help to balance our body's natural odor with a more health-conscious deodorant option.

What advice do you have for women who want to make their personal care routine more natural and healthy?

There are so many high-quality natural beauty brands available on the market today, making the switch to healthier alternatives an easy one. Beauty blogs are a great source for discovering some of the best.

What’s it like being a woman in business? Have you encountered specific obstacles or opportunities?

I think being an entrepreneur brings specific challenges regardless of gender. I do know there's an abundance of resources available for female business people. Luckily, I've not encountered any discrimination that's directly affected my ability to do business. I've been supported by men and women alike, and I'm very grateful for my network of friends and business relationships.

About the author of this post:

tracypuhl is the owner of GladRags and is passionate about period positivity and empowering women everywhere. When she’s not in the office, you might find her attempting to run a faster 10k, traveling, practicing yoga, or pointing out how cute her cats are being right now.