Johnny Harris

Founder, T-tox, on matcha tea, buoys in the sea, biltong and Usain Bolt

johnny harris t-tox

What was your first job? A summer job working for a European stockbroking firm.

What’s been your worst job interview? I applied for a role as a kitchen assistant at a busy restaurant. Even in the interview it was clear I didn’t want the job but needed the money. Somehow I got the job but hated it so much I quit after one day!

What was the first music single you bought? Straight Up by Paula Abdul.

How do you describe your job to your mates? I describe my role as a tea pusher! I sell healthy matcha teas to people leading an active and balanced lifestyle. I’ve also got 15 years experience as a personal trainer.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Knowing I am enhancing someone’s long-term health in a small but beneficial way is very rewarding.

What is the least rewarding part? Working long hours and being away from my wife and son.

What is your motto in life? We don’t appreciate our health until we lose it. Our health is the one thing money can’t buy.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? Free air travel. From both a personal and business level, I would love to travel regularly to explore and find out about new cultures, influences and business opportunities.

Do you have any phobias? Buoys in the sea!

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? To have all the key retail buyers on speed dial.

What luxury would you have on a desert island? Biltong. It would give me energy for making fire and raft-building so I could escape.

What animal most reflects your personality? I’m most like a dog: loyal, protective and determined.

What’s your favourite film and why? From Dusk till Dawn. I love the unexpected twist midway through the film.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? All my embarrassing moments generally involve drink. Suffice to say I no longer drink shots.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Usain Bolt. He’s one of the few internationally recognised athletes; he would boost the profile of T-tox to new levels.