After struggling with infertility—and eventually welcoming two children into the world—former Vital Proteins CMO Caryn Johnson launched BOND, a supplement line that reimagines hormone and reproductive health. Here, the Roscoe Village-based co-founder and CEO shares her inspiring story and the insights she’s learned along the way.
The BOND line includes supplements that support both women’s and men’s fertility.
How long have you been working on developing BOND?
Despite enduring multiple pregnancy losses and undergoing numerous rounds of IVF, my medical team couldn’t offer any clear solutions. Taking matters into my own hands, I delved into research and discovered that I was autoimmune infertile. During this journey, I identified a glaring gap in our understanding of women’s health, hormones and their impact on reproductive cycles. In 2022, I resolved to change that, and in 2023, BOND officially launched.
What are the benefits of BOND supplements?
Our supplements take a holistic, root-cause approach, addressing the systems that interact with and support fertility. Each product is tailored to specific hormonal stages, from menstrual cycle management to conception to perimenopause, providing a roadmap to wellness without detours.
When should women begin looking into their fertility and taking precautionary measures?
A woman’s fertility journey is intricately linked to health—not just her hormone levels and reproductive organs—but also the immune system, microbiome and endocrine system, which regulates hormones. These foundational systems must be in optimal condition to effectively support a new pregnancy. That’s why at BOND, we’re passionate about educating women on how to optimize their hormone levels early in life, long before they plan to conceive.
What advice do you have for women experiencing infertility?
Do your own research and always advocate for yourself... Find a specialist or team of specialists you trust... And embrace your community and know you’re not alone.
What has been the most rewarding part of your journey with BOND so far?
The opportunity to connect with and help people. I felt the divine need to create this brand because of my own story. I want to be a light to others, teaching them to care for their hormone health with resources I didn’t have.
What’s next for you and the brand?
We’ve just introduced a new product called Cycle Care, a comprehensive solution for a balanced period. As for me, I feel grounded in the fact that I’m following my life’s purpose. I’m also still leaving the door open for my own family to grow.
Photography by: PHOTO BY ALI ROSE
