From Optician to Pacifier Pioneer: How Lindsey DeOlivia is Redefining Baby Safety

For Lindsey DeOlivia, what started as a personal parenting challenge has grown into a mission to revolutionize baby safety. As a stay-at-home mom with a background as an optician, Lindsey faced a common yet frustrating dilemma: finding a pacifier that met her high safety standards. Rather than settle for what the market had to offer, she decided to change the game entirely.

Through her brand, Soothe Beginnings, Lindsey has created a line of bottle nipples and pacifiers that prioritize safety, innovation, and quality—setting a new standard in the baby product industry. Her journey, rooted in a blend of personal experience and professional determination, is a testament to how one person’s vision can transform an industry.

A Mission Born From Necessity

Lindsey’s decision to launch Soothe Beginnings wasn’t just about convenience; it was about trust and accountability. “I HAD to do something about it,” she explains. “My personal struggle revealed a bigger issue: inadequate safety standards in the U.S. pacifier market. I wanted to create a product that exceeded expectations, putting parents’ minds at ease. For me, this was about prioritizing well-being over profit.”

Her commitment to safety stems from her role as a mother. Lindsey’s daughter has been her driving force, motivating her to not only develop safer products but also advocate for higher standards across the industry. “Every time I look at my daughter, I’m reminded why I started Soothe Beginnings. I wanted safer, better products for her, and I’m driven to ensure no other parent has to compromise on safety.”

From Optician to Entrepreneur

Transitioning from a career as an optician to becoming an entrepreneur presented its own set of challenges. Lindsey entered the world of business without formal training in product development or marketing, but her determination and commitment fueled her success. She admits the journey wasn’t always easy, but her passion for making a difference kept her going.

“If I could give myself one piece of advice, it would be this: You truly can make a difference in an industry, create a product made in the USA, and be a dedicated mom all at once. Don’t underestimate the impact one person with a clear vision can have.”

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Lindsey’s entrepreneurial journey is not only about product innovation but also about empowering other women to pursue their goals. She actively encourages women to embrace their potential, even in the face of obstacles.

“Research shows women-owned businesses often outperform others, despite facing greater adversities,” she shares. “You are powerful, and your work matters. Don’t stand alone—find your village. Together, we rise. And remember, people will judge you no matter what, so do what YOU feel called to do.”

Making Waves on The Blox

Lindsey’s entrepreneurial drive caught the attention of the business competition show The Blox, where she competed against other leaders to showcase her ideas and vision. Her time on the show was transformative, not only because she won but also because of the connections she made.

“The most memorable part of The Blox was the incredible connections I made,” she recalls. “I spent a week with people who didn’t need me to explain my ‘crazy’ because we’re all on this wild entrepreneurship path together. The friendships and network I gained are invaluable.”

Winning the competition opened unexpected doors. “It gave me a level of authority and credibility I didn’t have before,” Lindsey explains. “I walked away with an investor and collaborations I never dreamed possible. Companies I had admired for years started reaching out to me.”

Lessons for Success

Lindsey’s experience on The Blox taught her valuable lessons about branding and strategy. “Branding is everything,” she says. “Stopping the scroll to grab people’s attention is crucial. You can have the best message in the world, but if no one sees it, it’s meaningless.”

Her advice to future competitors is practical and insightful: “Play the game well, but network HARD. The connections you make can open doors you never thought possible. Almost anything I might need in business now, I know someone I can go to.”

The Future of Soothe Beginnings

As Lindsey looks ahead, she’s focused on growing Soothe Beginnings while continuing to prioritize safety and innovation. “Our first book just launched this week, and the pacifier is almost ready to hit the market—which is beyond exciting!” she shares. “Right now, the focus is on driving home our product offerings and building cash flow to sustain and grow the business.”

Beyond product development, Lindsey hopes to inspire other entrepreneurs to take risks and follow their passions. “Take chances, make moves, and don’t be afraid to shake things up. Whatever you do, make it great. I believe in you!”

A Legacy of Safety and Resilience

Lindsey’s story is more than a tale of business success—it’s a narrative of resilience, innovation, and the courage to stand for what matters most. Her dedication to baby safety, combined with her determination to empower others, underscores the impact one person can have on an entire industry.

For parents, Soothe Beginnings offers more than just products—it provides peace of mind. And for aspiring entrepreneurs, Lindsey’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that success often starts with a simple decision not to settle.