Tom Bilyeu, an American entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and media figure, gained prominence as the co-founder of Quest Nutrition, a leading protein food enterprise recognized as the second-fastest-growing private company in North America by Inc. magazine in 2014. Additionally, he co-founded and hosts Impact Theory, a media venture focused on creating motivational content through videos and podcasts.

Early Life and Education

Tom Bilyeu, born in 1976 in Tacoma, Washington, experienced firsthand the health struggles stemming from poor nutrition within his mildly obese family. This ignited his passion for filmmaking and storytelling. He pursued his education at the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California.

Career

Bilyeu embarked on his professional journey in 2003 as a copywriter at Awareness Technologies, gradually ascending to the position of chief marketing officer over a seven-year tenure. It was during this period that he crossed paths with his future business associates, Ron Penna and Mike Osborn, the founders of Awareness Technologies.

In 2010, Bilyeu departed from Awareness Technologies to co-found Quest Nutrition alongside Penna, Osborn, his wife Lisa Bilyeu, and Shannan Pena. Their vision was to craft nutritious yet delicious food options to combat obesity and metabolic diseases. Quest Nutrition commenced its operations modestly, crafting protein bars in a small kitchen and distributing them online. The company swiftly burgeoned, amassing $82 million in revenue by 2013 and earning the distinction of being the second-fastest-growing private enterprise in North America, as recognized by Inc. magazine in 2014. By 2016, Quest Nutrition boasted a workforce of over 1,300 individuals and its products were available in more than 70 countries.

In 2016, Bilyeu and his wife Lisa co-established Impact Theory, a media enterprise dedicated to leveraging commerce to catalyze global cultural transformation. Impact Theory specializes in producing motivational content such as videos and podcasts, featuring interviews with accomplished entrepreneurs, celebrities, athletes, authors, and experts. Notable guests on Impact Theory include Tim Ferriss, Gary Vaynerchuk, Mel Robbins, Wyclef Jean, Laila Ali, and Peter Diamandis. Bilyeu serves as the host of Health Theory, a program centered around health and wellness, as well as co-hosts Relationship Theory with his wife Lisa, delving into the intricacies of love and relationships.

In 2019, Quest Nutrition was acquired by Simply Good Foods, the parent company of Atkins branded products, in a deal worth $1 billion. Despite the acquisition, Bilyeu continues to play an active role in Quest Nutrition as a board member and advisor.

Personal Life

Bilyeu shares both his personal and professional life with his wife, Lisa Bilyeu, who serves as his business partner and co-host. They reside in Los Angeles, California. Bilyeu adheres to a vegan lifestyle and incorporates daily meditation and gratitude practices into his routine. He also contributes as a member of the Innovation Board for Peter Diamandis’s X Prize Foundation, a non-profit entity dedicated to organizing competitions aimed at addressing global issues.