Meet the Makers Mini Interview: Lively
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meet the makers of lively: justin and julia
Lively Mini Interview
Meet West Coast duo Justin and Julia, the makers behind Lively, a new functional prebiotic pop. Made with apple cider vinegar to support gut health, Lively lets you enjoy classic flavours you know and love, with a little something extra for your digestion. We sat down with co-founder Julia Luu to get the scoop on how this all started!
Share your story with us in 150 words or less.
This all started with a Diet Coke obsession that I developed during COVID. I have always loved soda, but I didn’t love the long list of artificial ingredients. When I went searching for a healthier alternative, the options were either flavoured sparkling water or drinks with an overwhelming aftertaste. I missed real soda, the kind that feels nostalgic and satisfying. So we decided to make our own.
Getting from an idea to a small business is a lot of work! When did it first sink in for you that ‘this is really happening’?
The turning point was the first time we tasted a version that truly hit the mark. It had the flavour, the balance, and that familiar soda experience we grew up with. That was when it sank in that this wasn’t just a fun idea or a side project. We had created something we were genuinely excited to drink and proud to share.
Out of all your products, which is your personal favourite and why?
I go back and forth depending on the mood I’m in and the food I’m eating, but I always gravitate back to Cola and Cream Soda.
Both flavours feel incredibly nostalgic. They remind me of going to the corner store with my Grandpa, carefully choosing candy from the 5-cent bins with a soda in hand. Those flavours bring back that simple kind of joy, except now they’re made with ingredients I feel good about.
What’s your favourite thing about the town or city you live in?
There are so many things to love about Vancouver! If I had to pick one, it would be the food scene which captivated me to move here from Calgary. In all seriousness, the ease and access to nature also hits top of the list.
Describe your ideal Sunday morning, including your breakfast.
I do love a good Sunday football day that includes a homemade latte and some peanut butter toast. But for the rest of the 34 weekends without football, I just love a nice morning coffee with my business and life partner.
What are your personal top three tips for feeling amazing?
Feed the soul – enjoy a great meal, whether it’s about the food itself or the people you’re sharing it with
Sweat a little or a lot – movement makes the body feel alive
But also don’t sweat the small stuff. Life feels a lot better when you let the little things go.
Find Lively: On Their Website | On Instagram