We had the good fortune of connecting with Katie Andonian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katie, what matters most to you?
The health and safety of my family, our community & environment matters most to me. And, it is for this reason that I created RxEssentials.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
For the past 13 years, I have been a hospital pharmacist in San Diego. My career has been dedicated towards advancing clinical pharmacy practice and infectious disease management for women and newborns. My commitment to the health and safety of some of San Diego’s most vulnerable populations (pregnant women and their babies) was brought to an apex at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was at this point that I wanted to create a solution to not only help meet our community’s needs for hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and cleaning supplies but also create products that aim to be safer, more eco-friendly, and more enjoyable.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When not working as a hospital pharmacist or making cleaning products, I love to spend time with my family enjoying many family-friendly, outdoor activities. Some of our favorite local spots include the trails and beaches in North County, Carlsbad Village, and the San Diego Botanical Gardens in Encinitas. We are so excited that some of our favorite small restaurants are opening up such as Mr. Peabody’s in Encinitas and the Green Dragon in Carlsbad. And, we love supporting local, small vendors at maker events. We feel so fortunate to live in such a beautiful place that is focused on community.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
We are very thankful for the creator of Shop My Porch, Phyllis Hong Chung and the community members of Shop My Porch. Through this organization, we have been able to connect with members of our community and collaborate with small-businesses. It has offered a unique way for people as a way to re-connect and re-build our community.

Website: Rxeclean.com

Instagram: @TheRxEssentials

Facebook: @TheRxEssentials Rxeclean

Image Credits
Grace Francis of Studio Deku

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.