Articles
Gelgate: Important Update about Spring Energy and our Commitment to Your Trust
Hey Team, Courteney here. If you haven’t heard by now, unsettling news has come out about Spring Energy products. It turns out, their nutritional facts, specifically the calorie and carbohydrate content, are not what they claim to be. Third-party tests show that the actual values are less than half of what’s listed. Outside published an article this week that dives into the details and iRunFar has a fantastic writeup with independent testing results for Spring and 9 other gels. And, of course, if you want to go down the Reddit rabbit hole, there's loads, but make sure to block at least 4 hours off your calendar. The TL;DR version - this is Gelgate 2024. As a longtime user and fan of Spring, I’m devastated. Partially because I wasn’t getting the fuel I thought I was, but more so because Spring has done very little to address the issue and, here at Fuel Goods, that’s something that we won’t stand for. Our Bold Stand and Immediate Actions Clearance Sale: Effective immediately, all Spring Energy products are available at a 57% discount. It’s simple: you’re getting 57% less than what they advertise, so you should pay 57% less. We know many of you have been training with Spring and it may be too late to deviate from that for an upcoming race (ahem, me) so if you need to stock up your stash one last time before you make a switch, the time is now. Use code GELGATE. Complete Removal of Spring Energy Products: After you rid us of our Spring during this clearance sale, we will permanently remove Spring Energy products from our marketplace. Even if Spring Energy can substantiate their nutrition claims in the future, the trust we once had in them is irreparably damaged. We know this might seem like a harsh step, but we take our role as your trusted nutrition source incredibly seriously. There are plenty of reputable companies out there that we can partner with, and we prefer to support those that consistently align with our standards and values Refund and Store Credit Policy: - If you have unopened Spring and you want to return it, we’ll give you a full refund. Reach out to us at support@fuelgoods.com - If you consumed the Spring you purchased from us, even if you loved it, we’ll be proactively contacting you and providing full store credit for your purchase. Think of it as free opportunity to start over and find an alternative. We are more than happy to work with you personally to right the right fit among our other gel options. Our Commitment to You At Fuel Goods, we understand the responsibility we have in vetting the products we offer and are committed to taking strong actions to maintain our honor and your trust. Future Measures In full transparency, we don’t have all the tactical steps laid out just yet as to how we’re going to navigate this unprecedented labeling failure and make sure what you're buying is what you get, but here’s what you need to know: At Fuel Goods, we have - and always will have - a zero-tolerance policy for any discrepancies from the partners we feature. We are relentless in our pursuit of the best brands and products, not just for their performance and accuracy, but for their integrity. As more details unfold around next steps and future processes, you’ll be the first to know. Thank you for sticking with us and continuing to trust us to support your health and fitness journey. If you have any questions or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out. In Your Corner, Courteney Fuel Goods COO and former lover of Spring
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Boston Marathon and Why I'm Still Pinching Myself
Running a startup is hard and there are some days that I want to cry and tear my hair out. And then there are some days that I pinch myself and can't believe that this is what I do for work. The Boston Marathon was a weekend of those days. While I can't fit all the awesome that went down into words, here are some highlights. 1. We got to spend the afternoon with Kathrine friggin' Switzer What an incredible gem of a human. It's always interesting to meet people you deeply admire because quite honestly, they don't always live up to the hype. Not Kathrine. She blew my mind with her kindness, generosity, and compassion. BONUS: We got to hear about the new Rabbit Dream Chaser that debuted at Boston from the sneaker engineer himself. Yep, that's me just casually trying on sneakers with one of my idols *Pinch* 2. And be inspired by Kara Goucher Kara's talk was a powerful call to action for women of all ages to pursue their dreams relentlessly. I got to listen to this for "my job".*Pinch* Oh, and guess who won the raffle here? Yes, this is my winning face 👇🏻🤪 3. Sunday's Shakeout Run I wasn't racing, but there's nothing like shaking it with thousands of other runners through Boston's streets. Seriously, I love this community. We are all so different, yet in these running moments, we find a shared beat to stride to. Even though I can't run far these days, with every step I smile ear to ear. 4. The Expo Gotta love a good expo. Especially since we got to catch up with our friends at Maurten. SPOILER ALERT: coming to Fuel Goods soon 🎉 5. @immrsspacecadet IYKYK. And if you don't know, go follow her immediately. You can thank me later. 6. Race Day Ok - back to the race! Courteney and her fast friends were all smiles... Until the reality of the day's heat set it.... I had one job - deliver an aid bottle halfway through. When you have one job you can't mess it up. Dinosaur suits and obvious signs were utilized to maximize chances of success. We nailed the bottle, but even the best of fuel couldn't save these poor runners from the heat the day brought. They dug deep. They finished. And then sat in the street with the rest of the race carnage. To everyone who ran, my hat is so far off to you. It was a tough day on an already tough course. Thanks for inspiring me with your grit and tenacity. And thank you Boston Marathon, for reminding why I love my job so damn much. It's weekends like this that make every tough day worth it. Until the next time, let's keep pushing, Laura
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Courteney's Fueling Plan for Boston
Hey Fuel Gooders,As we count down to the Boston Marathon, we’re thrilled to share an insider look into the journey of one of our own, Courteney Lowe, our Chief Product Officer. Courteney isn’t just the force behind the products sourced for Fuel Goods; she’s a rockstar runner and an avid nutrition guru.So then, how is she fueling for Boston? And, what everyone want to know, what shoes is she wearing??? We’ll let her tell you! Breakfast of Champions Without fail, my marathon mornings kick off with two thick, no-nonsense slices of sourdough toast slathered in mashed banana with a hit of cinnamon. It’s simple, hearty, and it packs the punch I need to take on the miles ahead. Race Hydration Throughout the race, I’m that runner gripping my handheld filled with a concoction of Skratch High Carb + Skratch Sport Hydration. Why? Because I’m a control freak – no surprises from aid stations for this girl. 🤷🏻♀️ Race Fuel My stomach’s about as sensitive as Wi-Fi in a thunderstorm– very. So, it’s Spring or nothing. I kick off with Spring Awesome Sauce 10 minutes before the start, then follow it with a mildly caffeinated Spring Hill Aid every 40-ish minutes (that’s 3 total if you’re counting). When I hit the 2:30 mark it’s a single caffeinated Honey Stinger chew every 10 minutes until I see that glorious finish line. Recovery Post-race, even when I'm not feeling it, I have a scoop of Ascent Chocolate Whey in water and ice within 30 minutes. Why? Because my legs deserve a thank you letter for not giving up on me. They always write back with less soreness. Treats. Treats. Treats. And what’s the marathon glory without the victory lap through Boston’s froyo and cocktail scene? I’m on a mission, and I need you, Boston crew, to light the way.HELP – WHERE SHOULD I GO? It's gotta be the shoes... It's not a race without race shoes. Enter Hoka Cielo X1, the closest thing to flying without leaving the ground. Hoka went full throttle on these and I LOVE THEM. Who cares that I can only race in them twice (besides my wallet 🤷🏻♀️) Whether you’ll be in Boston or not, here’s to everyone racing or spectating this weekend!Let’s make it count,Courteney
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Is a coach worth it - Part 1
One of the most common questions we get is…SHOULD I HIRE A COACH??? Well, do any of these sound like you? 1.Your training plan is a thrilling blend of guesswork, intuition, and the advice of that one cousin who ran a 5K once. 2. Your post-run recovery is a questionable blend of whatever protein powder was on sale and six-day-old banana bread. 3. You're a seasoned physiotherapist who confidently diagnoses that weird knee pain as either a minor sprain or... imminent doom 4. Your race goals shift from personal bests to simply not getting overtaken by that person in the overly enthusiastic dinosaur costume. 5. Your hydration strategy depends on whether the water fountain at the park is working 🤷🏻♀️ STOP. THE. MADNESS. You can get started for as little as $15. I know coaching is an investment, but it’s so worth it. And thanks to our friends over at Team RunRun, you can find a coach for as little as $35/month. They have over 200 amazing coaches to choose from. And because we knew you might need some incentive to give coaching a shot, we’ve twisted their arms to throw in an extra $20 off your first month with code fuelgoods20. This is not a paid advertisement and we get no commission. We simply want to give you as many tools and resources as we can to help you hit your goals. When I got my first coach, my only question was why the heck I didn’t do it sooner. Don’t sleep on getting a coach like I did. Take the plunge. I promise it will help you have more fun and reach those goals. Let's get after it, Laura PS - we dive deeper into the benefits of coaching in Part 2 HERE.
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Is a coach worth it - Part 2
In Part 1 we dove into what your plan might look life if you don't have a coach. In Part 2, we lean on the wisdom of Team RunRun coach, Brant Stachel to find out what your running will like if you do get a coach... By Team RunRun coach Brant Stachel Embarking on a running journey is an adventure filled with personal highs, challenging lows, and the pursuit of goals that may have once seemed out of reach. Whether you're lacing up for the first time or eyeing a new personal best, I hope to share some insight into why hiring a running coach can transform your experience and outcomes. 1. Tailored Guidance for Your Unique Path Imagine having a roadmap designed just for you, one that considers every twist and turn of your personal and physical landscape. A running coach offers just that—a training plan crafted to fit your life, your goals, and your current fitness level. This personalized approach ensures you're not running aimlessly, rather you're running towards something efficiently and effectively. 2. Technical Insights and Efficiency Running seems straightforward until you dive into the nuances of form, technique, fueling, strategy, injuries, and periodization. A coach breaks down these complexities and offers insights that can help you move more efficiently, reduce injury risk, and perhaps even find a new love for aspects of running you hadn't considered. Having a coach is like having a translator to help decipher the language of running, all while making the process more enjoyable, and bringing you closer to your goals. 3. A Source of Motivation and Accountability Let’s face it, running isn’t always fun, sometimes it sucks to get out the door. Sticking to a training schedule can be as challenging as the runs themselves, especially when motivation dips. Having a coach provides a layer of accountability that's hard to replicate on your own. Knowing someone is there, cheering for you, waiting to hear about your runs, and pushing you gently (or firmly) towards your goals can be the difference between hitting snooze and hitting the pavement. 4. Emotional Support Through Ups and Downs The journey of running is filled with emotional highs and lows. A coach is there through it all, offering a shoulder to lean on when things get tough and celebrating your victories, big and small. This emotional support is invaluable, especially when at times the mental hurdles seem bigger than the physical ones. 5. Overcoming Plateaus and Setting Achievable Goals Every runner faces plateaus or setbacks. A coach helps you navigate these moments, adjusting your training to keep you progressing. They're skilled at setting goals that stretch you but are within reach, striking a balance between ambition and realism that keeps you motivated and injury-free while building consistency along the way. 6. Beyond Running Shakespeare once wrote, "Bid me run, and I will strive for things impossible." This embodies what coaches help us achieve. They inspire us to reach beyond the confines of what we thought possible, challenging us to set goals that stretch our limits, and ignite our passion for running. Beyond the physical act of running, a coach plays a pivotal role in weaving the fabric of community and confidence around us. They introduce us to fellow runners, clubs, and groups, and in doing so help us find our tribe within the broader community of the running world. This sense of belonging in addition to the above-stated reasons to hire a coach can transform your running practice from a solitary pursuit into a shared experience, enriched by camaraderie, support, and excellence. About Brant Brant Stachel is a coach with Team RunRun. He is a professional Ironman athlete, has 13 years of professional coaching experience as both a triathlon and run coach, and is a former Canadian national team coach known for guiding athletes to achieve PR's at every distance. He combines his coaching acumen with his credentials as a Registered Massage Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), providing a unique fusion of physical and mental expertise for athletes aiming to realize their full potential. Work with Brant! Like his style? You can save 25% off your first month with Brant with code FG25brant here. Remember, you get $20 off the first month of any Team RunRun coach with code fuelgoods20 over at teamrunrun.com
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The Story of How Fuel Goods Came to Be
I bet only a few of you know that all this started when I quit my job in corporate finance to pursue a professional cycling career and The Runner/RiderBox was my side hustle that paid the bills. Fast forward 10 years and this episode of The Chief Endurance Officer dives deeper into The RunnerBox, RiderBox, and Fuel Goods story and the very essence of what drives us forward: the endurance mindset. In this episode you get my take on things like: How to keep going after devastating setbacks A behind-the-scenes look at how we've embedded the endurance mindset into our team’s culture Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and how setting a vision can drive your path forward How technology will shape the future of sports nutrition This episode is not just a reflection of my journey or the ethos of our company. It’s a testament to the power of endurance, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that resides in all of us. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone with a goal in sight, there’s a wealth of insights waiting for you in this episode. Tune in Now: Spotify Apple Podcast Google Podcast Amazon Music YouTube As always, I am immensely grateful for each of you in this community that pushes me to be better every day. Here's to pushing boundaries together, Laura
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Fuel Goods Breaks Down the Latest RiderBox
This edition of The RiderBox is stacked. Let's jump right in and see how each item will transform your riding. Remember...it's not just about what's inside the box—it's about unlocking the next level of your cycling journey by knowing how to use them. The TL;DR version: This box includes: Groundbreaking products for recovery Fun ride fuel to keep you on your toes (or pedals) Super clean snacks to keep your nutrition goals on track For those of you looking for a a deeper dive, here's the rundown on why we chose each one and how to get the most out of them: ⚡Oars and Alps Epsom Salt Bar Soap For when you need an Epsom soak, but you only have time for a quickie... Soothing Sanctuary: This isn't just soap; it's a muscle magician. Epsom salt and arnica blend to soothe your aches, while coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, and shea butter lavish your skin with love. Spa Day, Every Day: The soap smells divine and if you close your eyes you might forget you're in your own shower Vegan and Cruelty-Free – Oars +Alps care about ethics without skimping on results. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Lather up with this bar after you've smashed a ride and the legs are achy but there's no time for an Epsom salt bath. It's the perfect compromise to restore on the fly. ⚡The GFB Bar The GFB will be your new BFF for its... Clean Ingredients: We love that we can pronounce everything in the short list of ingredients that make this bar No flavor compromise: That being said, it packs a big peanut butter punch that we love Protein-packed snack: Each 2oz bar is a compact powerhouse, delivering 12g of protein and a healthful high-five 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: As a hearty snack to keep hunger at bay on days that you've slayed a hard ride and want to make good choices to capitalize on all those gains. ⚡4D Hydration 5 Stick Combo Pack Say hello to the cyclist's fantasy blend. 4D was concocted by an endurance athlete to include dream ingredients that act as the ultimate utility player for your body. Here’s what this dream drink is coming with: Instant Energy - With 150mg of caffeine you'll have to check to make sure you're not on an e-bike Laser Focus - Maca, B12, ginseng, and yohimbe will have your brain firing on all cylinders. Endurance for Days - Beet powder gives you legs of steel to go the distance. Joint Joy and Muscle Magic - Glucosamine, bromelain, glutamine, arginine, and beta-alanine heal you up while BCAAs recover you down. Glowing Skin - Aloe and vitamins have your skin looking oh-so-good. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: While this product is great for recovery, we love it for a pre-workout boost. Blend one stick in 32oz of ice cold H2O, shake it real good, and sip it 30 minutes before you workout. We usually drink half before for energy and save the other half for post-workout to give our muscles the BCAA love. ⚡Aahana's Rice and Lentil Bowl It’s not often we include a ready-to-eat meal, but we fell so hard for this one we couldn’t help but share it with you. You may be thinking, what’s the big deal with some rice and grains, but let me tell you, this bowl is about to rock your world in the most positive way possible! Flavor explosion: The perfectly cooked rice, lentils and veggies all come together in a symphony of scrumptiousness that'll have your taste buds doing backflips. Sprouted, Freeze-Dried and Rich in Nutrients The grains and legumes in this baby have been sprouted, which means all those tasty nutrients are supercharged and ready to fuel your adventures. On top of that, it's been freeze-dried, so every morsel is packed with the same delicious flavors and benefits no matter when or where you eat it. Protein Powerhouse: With a massive 15 grams of plant-based protein per serving, this bowl will have you feeling energized and strong enough to take on any challenge that comes your way. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: All you have to do is add boiling water to the fill line, let it sit for seven minutes, and presto - you've got a gourmet meal without even trying. No fuss, no muss, just nourishment on the fly. ⚡Ascent Chocolate Whey Protein We’re a sucker for any company that calls themselves the official sponsor of hard work. Truly, Ascent is the real MVP when it comes to fueling your grind. They use ingredients you can pronounce and use science to get the job done... High-Quality: Ascent uses cream of the crop, premium milk for a superior amino acid profile and is made with native whey, the least processed whey protein available today. Chocolate So Good It Should Be Illegal: Real cocoa makes this taste just like chocolate milk - but with benefits Top-Notch Muscle Recovery: Recovery requires more than protein. This mix contains 25g of whey protein per serving PLUS 5.5g BCAAs and 2.6g naturally occurring leucine which helps trigger protein synthesis. Clean Eatin’: It’s free from added sugar or artificial ingredients- just the good stuff to support your mission of fueling good. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: The traditional route: We mix half a sachet after rides or a full sachet after strength training, straight into a shaker with water and consume within 45 minutes of our workout to rebuild muscles and recover for the next day. Something more adventurous: We add the powder into our baking (reduce the amount of flour by the same amount of protein you add) to make dynamo muffins, pancakes, etc. Here is a yummy recipe for chocolate gingerbread protein muffins straight from Ascent if you’re feeling inspired. ⚡XACT Energy Strawberry Fruit Bar NOSTALGIA ALERT! These gummy fruit bars are like biting into those delectable candy fruit slices from your childhood, but with an endurance athlete twist. Here’s why we love them: Natural Ingredients: These bars are made with fruit pulp, natural flavors, and glucose to give you natural energy like a bolt of lightning, but tastier and without the frazzled hair. Easy Consumption: It’s made specifically to be easy to eat and easy to digest. It’s so smooth, some say it slides down easier than a compliment on a good hair day. Perfect for those moments when chewing feels like too much work and something hard on the stomach is out of the question Compact Convenience: Fits in your jersey better than your phone—and way more nutritious. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Pop one every 30-45 minutes during intense rides lasting longer than an hour…or when you're pretending to listen in meetings. It's the secret sauce to keep your energy levels more consistent than your ex's mood swings. ⚡Eco Lips Hemp Plant Pod Windburn anyone? Soothing Relief: Hemp seed oil and natural ingredients provide essential moisture and relief to chapped lips, perfect for recovery after long rides. Eco-Conscious Cycling: The first plastic-free tube is made entirely of plants. For real. All-weather Formula: Offers protection against harsh winter conditions like dreaded cold air windburn 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Apply liberally before, during, and after rides, especially when facing the elements so you can keep your focus on the road, not on discomfort. ⚡Extreme Sport Beans® with Caffeine These hard-hitting beans are strategic magic candy for athletes. We're digging: The ingredient mix: They really thought these beans through - packed with carbs, electrolytes, vitamins, and caffeine, they're like tiny, tasty power-ups that are scientifically proven to improve fluid balance, protect cells, and sustain energy The flavor assortment: Assorted flavors mean every bean is a new adventure in taste and energy. Bye, bye flavor boredom 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Pop two beans every 10 minutes during the crunch time of your workout or race. It’s like a secret weapon against fatigue. ! IMPORTANT ! Make sure you continue taking until the end to ensure you don't hit that wall FOR EXTRA FUN: During hard intervals, don’t look and guess which flavor you’re eating as a way to keep your mind off the burn ⚡Rule Breaker Junior - Strawberry Shortcake Those of you that have been with us for a while know that we're mildly very obsessed with Rule Breaker. It's a go-to snack for us because... Guilty Pleasure, No Guilt: This innovative bar utilizes chickpeas as the main ingredient for a protein and fiber rich snack Sinfully Delicious: Truly, how does something made from beans taste so dang good? Bonus: the portion size is perfect since we could eat these forever. Allergy-Friendly: Free from the top 11 allergens, making it a worry-free delight for everyone. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: As a better for you option when cravings hit and you want to stay on track and need something scrumptious. Also ideal for packing in kids' lunch boxes for a safe, tasty snack. ⚡Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn Air popped popcorn may just be the king of athlete snacks but when you can't air pop, this is your next best bet... Simple Ingredients: Just three components—organic popcorn, extra-virgin coconut oil, and Himalayan pink salt—for clean snacking. Cyclist's Dream Snack: High fiber, complex carbs, and ridiculously low calories to volume ratio = WIN, WIN, WIN! 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Reach for this popcorn when you need a light yet fulfilling snack. It's perfect for those moments when dinner is on the horizon but your stomach can't quite wait. ! IMPORTANT ! NOT BEFORE A RIDE: see high fiber ☝🏼💩 That's a lot... We know. You can get each of these items individually for about $54. Or you could subscribe and get this box for $32. We're not mathematicians but.... And if you already subscribe (yessssss!!!) don't forget that you can restock on the Fuel Goods marketplace and save 15% off everything. You can find your super secret discount code when you scan the QR code on the What's in the Box card found in your box. Let us know what you think We want to hear from you! Drop a comment or email us at feedback@theriderbox.com to: Share other ways you're using the product Ask any questions you have on the nutrition side Give any other feedback As always, it is our joy to hep you fuel your best. Here's to making every mile count!
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Fuel Your Run: Fuel Goods Unveils the Latest RunnerBox
Dive into this edition of The RunnerBox and find out why each product is a game-changer for your runs. It's not just about what's inside the box—it's about unlocking the next level of your running journey by knowing how to use them. Let's chase that runner's high, one awesome product at a time!
Learn moreRun Farther, Ride Faster: How Our New Partnership with Fuel Goods Powers Your Potential
2023 in a Nutshell 2023 was a phenomenal year for our Runner and RiderBox family. It was a year where our passion for running and cycling transcended boundaries, touched lives, and pushed us to new heights. We: Shipped thousands of boxes across the nation Empowered Parkinson’s Foundation Champions Launched on Amazon And unveiled our new website. But something was still missing… Listening and Evolving Your feedback is the guiding force that pushes us to be better You’ve repeatedly asked for two things: 1) A more convenient way to replenish your favorite products 2) A more personalized box experience. Your voice has been instrumental in shaping our next big leap… Introducing Our Partnership with Fuel Goods In a groundbreaking move, we’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Fuel Goods, a name synonymous with excellence in sports nutrition. This collaboration is not just a partnership; It's a fusion of visions to elevate your nutrition game. Fuel Goods is on a mission to help you remove the friction between wanting to fuel better and actually doing it. By joining forces, we provide you full the ecosystem to find great products and make sure you always have them available to fuel your best. Here’s What’s in Store for You: - Customized Boxes: Tailor-made nutrition is no longer a wish but a reality. You can customize a subscription box to fit your dietary preferences and fueling needs. - Expert Guidance: Sports nutrition is complex. Fuel Goods is here to help you reach your goals by creating you a custom box based on your lifestyle. Fuel Goods will also take the lead on our social media accounts so they share their extensive nutrition expertise with our followers. - More Variety Get the products you loved in your boxes, PLUS more fully vetted sports nutrition products so you can always fuel good - Exclusive Discounts: As a membership perk, all Runner and RiderBox subscribers will receive 15% off the entire Fuel Goods website Beyond Convenience: A Leap Towards Sustainable Growth This partnership spans beyond just offering more nutrition. Fuel Goods will also become the fulfillment partner who ships all our boxes. This is a strategic move to enhance operational efficiency and keep our commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. With a larger warehouse network, we're set to streamline our logistics, ensuring that your favorite boxes arrive at your doorstep seamlessly. What Changes for You? Fear not, for the heart of RunnerBoxes and RiderBoxes remains unchanged. Same quality product. Same good vibes. The essence of what we do will continue as always. Embracing Change with Open Arms This partnership is a testament to our relentless commitment to providing you with the best possible products and unmatchable value. We can't wait for you to check out Fuel Goods and transform your pantry into a way to reach your goals. Here's to continuing to push boundaries together, Laura and Courteney
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