The deep, selfless desire to help, aid, and assist others.

Kokua’s Founder

Headshot of Kokua creator Marie

Marie Grinstead, PhD

Marie, the founder of Kōkua, extracts and crafts each creation offering unparalleled transparency in the development of her science-backed, plant-based functional formulas. Connection is at the heart of her mission. Better connected to nature, self, and to each other.

Marie started Botanical Processing, an extraction research laboratory, in 2015 while working towards her doctorate in mechanical engineering. She started out as solely a processor and manufacturer of hemp-derived CBD products for other companies, and her main focus was developing and utilizing optimal CO2 extraction methods as part of producing superiorly effective natural alternatives. After completion of her doctorate, the custom blends she had been creating for family, friends, and neighbors proudly expanded into a line of products, now available to all. She is grateful for the many avenues of opportunity to make a difference and share her creations nation-wide.

Connection is at the heart of her mission. 

Better connected to nature, self, and more deeply connected to each other. 

With no better way to express her motivation behind the brand, she chose the Hawaiian word, Kōkua, meaning the desire to help, aid, and assist others. Marie was born in Hawai’i and raised in Kentucky. For a decade, Marie devoted extensive effort and time whenever possible towards the Polynesian dance school she founded in 2013, ‘Ike Roa, to share and perpetuate the beautiful cultures of both Hawaii and Tahiti. Feeling the desire to devote more time outside of work to family, Marie stepped away from teaching regular weekly dance classes – a decision that not only allotted her more time with her husband and son, but also allowed more flexibility to become a student and researcher once again. 

Marie will always continue her education in Polynesian dance. While she offers occasional workshops and private lessons throughout the year, her learning and practice now takes place with a greater focus on having optimal surrounding energy and connection. She continues to perform at local International events and festivals with her dance students. In 2023, she began training with 4x Muay Thai World Champion, Sakasem Kanthawong. They partnered on a business that honors Sakasem’s immense career and accomplishments. The core mission of the The Punisher Muay Thai is to inspire and support dedication to a healthy, balanced, and fulfilling lifestyle. They recently opened a Muay Thai gym togther that started offering classes March 2025.

Marie is thankful for the incredible people who surround her to make all of this possible, especially her husband, Jeff. He owns and operates a landscaping and hardscape business, serves in the Air Force, and helps Marie in the lab and gym. They welcomed a son in 2021, and they cherish every moment and blessing together as they grow their family. Marie is grateful for everyone who encouraged and inspired her over the years as she withstood pandemic-induced changes to the industry and her businesses. 

Contact Marie
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