October 2023 – Marianopolis graduate and successful entrepreneur Jake Karls took time this week to discuss managing entrepreneurial challenges while looking out for his own well-being, as part of Marianopolis Mental Health Week.

Karls – a 2012 Social Science program graduate, cofounder of Mid-Day Squares and Forbes 30 under 30 entrepreneur – was on campus Tuesday to share his thoughts and experience with students.

Mid-Day Squares has enjoyed viral growth since its founding in 2018, but its road to disrupting the chocolate industry hasn’t been an easy one. Jake says he’s able to handle the demands of entrepreneurship through weekly business therapy, which allows him to prioritize the well-being of both his personal and professional relationships.

He discussed concepts that resonated with students and staff alike, from the power of storytelling in making Mid-Day Squares stand out from its competitors, to dealing with burnout and learning to prioritize self-care.

Social Science professor Bruno Delorme facilitated the discussion, and honours Social Science students Meagan Mellor and Marco Pitruzzello led the Q&A.

Jake described how his time at Marianopolis pushed him to take himself and his studies more seriously and allowed him to connect with motivated and inspired peers.

Students also got to taste some of Jake’s sweet success, as he offered Mid-Day Squares to everyone at the event.

Thank you Jake for an engaging and motivating discussion!