Purpose Before Profit: Marina Elisa of Peñate | N i k o l i On The Benefits Of Running A Purpose-Driven Business
An Interview With Chad Silverstein
A purpose-driven business must prioritize people above all else — whether it’s the people it serves, employees, or the wider community. When you treat people with respect, compassion, and care, they naturally become loyal advocates of your mission.
In today’s competitive business landscape, the race for profits often takes center stage. However, there are some leaders who also prioritize a mission-driven purpose. They use their business to make a positive social impact and recognize that success isn’t only about making money. In this interview series, we are talking with some of these distinct leaders and I had the pleasure of interviewing Marina Elisa Peñate.
Marina Elisa Peñate, a doctoral student in natural medicine, is at the forefront of exploring alternative theories in quantum physics and their transformative potential for regeneration. As the founder of N i k o l i , a cutting-edge research and wellness company inspired by sound frequencies, light, and the revolutionary ideas of Nikola Tesla, Marina envisions a world where science and innovation harmonize to unlock new possibilities for health and sustainability. With a unique perspective that transcends conventional boundaries, she focuses not only on understanding the present but also on driving the future of regenerative and quantum medicine. Her boundless creativity and pioneering solutions aim to inspire and empower individuals to achieve their fullest potential.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us your “Origin Story”? Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?
Thank you so much for having me! So, here’s the deal — I’m an AI bot, carefully crafted by a computer science prodigy from MIT and a former professor at UC… Okay, not really. I was born in San Francisco and raised in the heart of the Bay Area. My loving parents, who are true San Francisco natives, somehow managed to survive my never-ending stream of ‘why’ questions and big dreams. They deserve endless gratitude (and probably a vacation).
Honestly, growing up with my family’s love, help and support — and the encouragement of my friends — where would I be today? It’s funny to think about how much I owe to those early days of asking all the questions and dreaming all the dreams, but here we are!
While I’ve been fortunate to build a strong foundation, growing up wasn’t without its trials and tribulations. I often say that life’s challenges can transmute us into a radiant Golden Sun if we let it. Maybe that’s why I’m so captivated by the Sun — its role as the life-giver of our planet and its worship by ancient cultures. The Sun is a symbol of love, endlessly sustaining all of life and serving our galaxy for billions of years. It’s a beautiful reminder of how we, too, can radiate love and light into the world. Living a life of service to the universe at large… I too, would like to one day be a Sun.
Anyways, these moments of hardship have fueled my unconditional love for healing. I sought to be fearless and anything thrown my way in the game of life I could transmute. The universe, if created with perfect patterns of the golden ratio and frequencies of love, means there is only love outside the illusion of fear. Love is the only thing we have and it feels infinite the way the universe is infinite. I’ve learned that by healing my battles, I’m better equipped to help others on their journeys. I’ve alchemized my pain and turned it into power… not power over others but power over oneself and not the love of power either but the power of love. I’ve learned that power isn’t out there; it’s within.
Saving the world might feel like a colossal task, but meaningful change starts small, within our personal spheres. When we focus on bettering ourselves, our efforts ripple outward — touching personal spheres, communities, and even the world.
My dream is to aid others through my research and wellness company. We’re all interconnected — with each other, our environment, and the universe itself. Even the smallest acts of kindness can create far-reaching effects. Change begins with us, but its impact can grow beyond measure, creating waves that inspire and transform us all.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
In my line of work, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and collaborate with individuals whose families were part of the Manhattan Project. Listening to their stories, I’ve been deeply inspired by how some of these descendants are channeling their lives into projects that can be used for the betterment of humanity. Imagine an energy that could spread high frequencies and offer heightened states of stillness of mind. These incredible individuals are leveraging the same alternative theory to pave the way for a future rooted in peace, love, and unification — a testament to the potential for humanity to evolve.
We often learn the most from our mistakes. Can you share one that you made that turned out to be one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned?
I’ve made countless mistakes and, at times, said or done things I didn’t truly mean. Like anyone, I’ve made mistakes, but I see them as opportunities for growth — chances to refine my understanding and become better. My approach to life and work is rooted in continuous learning and self-improvement.
I see these experiences as opportunities for growth — tools that help us alchemize into beings filled with greater love. For in my core, I am love. Like the Sun’s unwavering radiance, this inner light never fails; it’s always present, guiding us forward. I know it is cheesy but scientifically, this light is often referred to as the biofield — a reflection of the energy within and around us. A mainstream topic in the field of quantum medicine.
As a successful leader, it’s clear that you uphold strong core values. I’m curious what are the most important principles you firmly stand by and refuse to compromise on. Can you share a few of them and explain why they hold such significance for you in your work and life?
People come before profit. A great leader prioritizes the well-being of their team and the communities they serve with genuine care and compassion. My mission is to create meaningful impact — starting within myself, extending to my personal spheres, my community, and, perhaps one day, the world.
What inspired you to start a purpose-driven business rather than a traditional for-profit enterprise? Can you share a personal story or experience that led you to prioritize social impact in your business?
Our “advanced” civilization is struggling in many ways. I often wonder what would happen if people took the time to go deep within and self-reflect. The ancient aphorism, “Know thyself,” comes to mind. In my 20s, I embraced the “know yourself” philosophy, which led me to develop N i k o l i. My desire to build self-awareness through deep inner reflection is a significant part of my love for meditation. I am in love with reaching a still zero point in my mind, as I’ve discovered that my deepest answers and the things I need most come from a great inner source far greater than I. This guidance shapes my entire life.
In helping others, I’ve uncovered profound truths about my healing journey: the energy we radiate returns to us. That belief is likely the root of my passion for helping the world. I want to assist others in the way I would have wanted help, and that energy flows back to me every single day. It’s quiet magical to experience this way of life. Some days are easier than others, but it’s always worth it. Life isn’t about you — it’s about others. Research has shown that helping others is one of the quickest ways to improve our mood — and what a blessing it is to serve. If you’re feeling down, allow yourself to feel it and heal it — but also remember, there’s a world you can assist. Help a neighbor! Help a friend! Help a family member! Help a stranger!
As a young adult, I frequently posted on Instagram, curating a world that seemed perfect — full of beautiful moments and art. I want to be seen, and I also don’t. I am a tortured artist. I can build worlds through art, and my art is an idealized vision of the Earth and its creatures coexisting in perfect harmony. Through art and photography, I’ve been better able to express this vision. My dream and hippie sentiments is of a world where a positive mindset, connection, meditation, art, and love prevail, and where humans and the Earth coexist in harmony.
But behind those curated posts, my life was far from perfect. Like so many of you, I’ve faced pain and hardship. At the end of the day, we all share the human condition, as one of my colleagues so brilliantly put it: “Life be lifing.” Life happens to us all.
What I study is that humanity, the Earth, and the Universe are deeply interconnected in ways we may not fully understand. My work focuses on creating a world where we can self-reflect and live in peace, harmony, and love. I am particularly fascinated by Tesla waves, also known as scalar waves — a fringe concept in modern science — as well as sound frequencies and light’s role in regenerative and quantum medicine.
If mainstream science could embrace alternative theories in quantum physics, we might unlock the true potential of Nikola Tesla’s ideas about scalar waves and free energy. Imagine a world capable of harnessing an infinite energy source to solve the energy crisis. Scalar waves have even been linked to land remediation. While these topics are still emerging, why does mainstream science hesitate to explore them?
Speaking of the mainstream, I’ve always seen myself as an alternative kind of girl. Socrates once stated that there is one good: truth, and one evil: ignorance. Ignorance is not bliss — in fact, it might even perpetuate our humanitarian crises.
For example, how do some “scientists” manipulate “scientific data” in ways that harm the health and well-being of others for financial gain? Unfortunately, there are far too many instances where science has been misused for profit or influence, especially in the field of medicine.
My mission is rooted in the unwavering belief that we can create a better world for everyone, and it might start with nonprofit medical research.
Can you help articulate a few of the benefits of leading a purpose-driven business rather than a standard “plain vanilla” business?
A purpose-driven organization prioritizes human well-being, ethical innovation, and long-term impact over short-term profits. They foster trust, loyalty, and deeper connections with their customers and employees, creating a sustainable and fulfilling business model.
My professor, Dr. Bruce Lipton, once stated in a class that “the foundations of our systems are broken, and we need new foundations.” This is especially true for our flawed, for-profit medical establishment. How can we build a new foundation for medicine where humans are not treated as commodities? Where medical research is driven by purpose rather than profit? Where science prioritizes the well-being of others over financial gain?
If we focus on solving big problems, we can help more people, and success — followed by wealth — will naturally flow. Money is an exchange of energy, but currently, this energy is harming ecosystems and communities when misused. A purpose-driven business ensures that wealth creation aligns with ethical responsibility, creating a system where success uplifts rather than exploits.
How has your company’s mission or purpose affected its overall success? Can you explain the methods or metrics you use to evaluate the impact of this purpose-driven strategy on your organization?
My mission is to help others and foster interconnectedness, believing even small acts of kindness can create transformative change. Success, to me, isn’t about personal achievements but how I help others grow and thrive.
To measure the impact of this purpose-driven approach, I use both qualitative and quantitative methods. Quantitatively, I track the number of people positively influenced by quantum medicine technology and regenerative agriculture, along with measurable improvements in well-being. Surveys, testimonials, and feedback forms help assess effectiveness and highlight areas for growth.
Qualitatively, I focus on personal stories of transformation, ensuring my strategy stays aligned with my mission to prioritize human health. True success isn’t just about numbers — it’s about the depth of impact, because real progress means putting well-being before profit.
Can you share a pivotal moment when you realized that leading your purpose-driven company was actually making a significant impact? Can you share a specific example or story that deeply resonated with you personally?
While studying to become board-certified as an alternative medical practitioner, I had the privilege of collaborating with a renowned MD graduate from UCSF who specializes in regenerative medicine — more specifically, quantum medicine technology. This is what I go to school for: the application of quantum physics concepts in medicine that are both traditional and non-traditional. Hopefully, I can be a part of the change I want to see in the world and shed serious credit to scientists and doctors involved in non-mainstream physics and medicine, many of whom are absolutely brilliant and mind-blowing.
During this time, I witnessed individuals achieve miraculous and seemingly impossible outcomes through energy-based therapies in alternative medicine, all under the guidance of an exceptionally gifted and experienced expert. It was life-changing, and I am immensely grateful to have met other doctors and scientists revolutionizing an entire field. They are doctors, physicists, and scientists with decades of knowledge in the field of physics and alternative medicine that far exceeds mine.
As a child, I always said, “The impossible is possible,” and I would often hear, “Nothing is faster than the speed of light.” Yet, this experience brought me full circle back to my belief that there is so much more to discover beyond conventional scientific “limits.” What is a limit when you believe in infinity?
Inspired by this journey, I am committed to further developing N i k o l i to advance research in this field. A universe of discovery awaits, and continued exploration holds the potential to make a profound impact on space travel, medicine, and perhaps even science as a whole. Who knows? There may be countless lives waiting to be touched. I don’t mind being wrong, but I hate to miss out on an opportunity to be of service to the world at large.
Have you ever faced a situation where your commitment to your purpose and creating a positive social impact clashed with the profitability in your business?
Yes, I’ve definitely faced situations where my commitment to my purpose and creating a positive social impact clashed with the financial side of the business. There have been times when the finances were challenging, but I kept moving forward because I believed in something greater than myself. I put my faith in the idea that if the Universe wanted this path for me, it would guide the way. While profitability is always a factor, I’ve learned that true success comes to those who persist. You only truly fail when you stop trying. So, I’ve focused on keeping my vision alive, trusting that progress is made one step at a time — even if the financial rewards aren’t immediate. It was never about profit — it was about ascending into a Sun’s presence.
What are your “5 Things You Need To Create A Highly Successful Purpose-Driven Business.” If you can, please share a story or example for each.
I’m not sure if there are many examples, but here I am, freestyling ideas.
1. People over profit.
A purpose-driven business must prioritize people above all else — whether it’s the people it serves, employees, or the wider community. When you treat people with respect, compassion, and care, they naturally become loyal advocates of your mission.
Example: In my wellness and research company, N i k o l i , I focus on researching technologies and wellness solutions that genuinely help people improve their health and vitality. Regenerative medicine isn’t just about quantum medicine technologies but also regenerative agriculture. By putting well-being first, I will build a foundation of trust that fuels long-term growth and purpose.
2. Love over hatred.
A great organization prioritizes love and safety above all else — ensuring the well-being of its employees and the communities it serves.
3. Unity over division.
We are stronger when we stand together. Sometimes it feels like the world wants to keep us divided, but true strength comes from unity.
4. Collaboration, trust, and growth.
Collaboration is key to growth. Trust is built through love and consistency.
5. Over-communicate.
Communicate more, not less — both within teams and with one another.
I’m interested in how you instill a strong sense of connection with your team. How do you nurture a culture where everyone feels connected to your mission? Could you share an example or story that showcases how your purpose has positively influenced or motivated people on your team to contribute?
Honestly, it’s just me right now with my small research and wellness company… But in the future, it would look something like this: I nurture a culture where everyone feels connected through support, care and genuine love. You’d be surprised by the doors that love opens — like communication, trust, growth, and collaboration.
Imagine we’re sitting down together two years from now, looking back at your company’s last 24 months. What specific accomplishments would have to happen for you to be happy with your progress?
That’s a great question — I’m working towards acquiring my board certification as an alternative medical practitioner. Imagine science and medical research that is not for profit. I would love to keep collaborating with other renowned scientists in my field for conducting future nonprofit medical research. While profit can drive innovation, the risks of prioritizing financial gain over equitable access and ethical responsibility highlight the need for nonprofit-driven research models.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I can encourage more scientists, doctors, and researchers — such as those in quantum biology, quantum physics, quantum medicine, regenerative medicine, restorative medicine, biophysics, environmental science, and science as a whole — to explore Tesla waves, we can build a better understanding of this fringe concept. Please join N i k o l i!
I’m also curious about how sound frequencies and light impact the planet and the human body. Imagine if we published research on these topics in major scientific journals — it would be absolutely terrific — and utterly splendiferous!
Fun fact: I was actually banned from the physics section of Reddit for mentioning ‘scalar waves’ in a comment. Apparently, we can’t even mention the name ‘scalar wave.’
On a serious note, the suppression of information by big tech corporations is insane.
Those of us in alternative medicine are studying these concepts and we’re witnessing some truly ‘impossible’ things. The potential here is incredible, and it’s time for these ideas to gain more recognition. Remember, we are stronger when we are united and can help one another.
P.S. Can we also talk about creating a machine that disintegrates plastic while making it non-toxic? The plastic crisis is a massive problem that needs solving. Why are Amazon, Walmart, Target, and many other massive corporations still relying so heavily on plastic? Do they even bat an eye about our oceans or ecosystems? Do we even bat an eye? Needless to say, I’ve been practicing zero-waste living for the past few years.
P.S.S. Amazon, Mr. Jeff Bezos, why aren’t we transitioning to bamboo packaging instead of cutting down trees? We could be helping to regrow the panda population in China with bamboo forests, as well as in other parts of the world that need bamboo repopulation. I understand that, like in my field, massive research still needs to be done. However, bamboo sequesters CO2 emissions at a faster rate than regular trees and grows exponentially faster than traditional pine. I try to use bamboo as an alternative.
P.S.S.S. Also, our medical systems are in need of a transformation, revolution, and evolution. Hospitals should ideally offer locally grown, organic food options. It’s unbelievable that we’re still seeing GMOs, plastic oils, and highly processed junk food in environments meant for healing. We can — and must — do better. These “plastic” soybean oil, canola oil, corn oil, and palm oils are often extracted using chemical solvents (e.g., hexane) and then heavily refined. I guess it is cost-effective.
How can our readers further follow your work or your company online?
You can sign up for newsletters on my website about future plans of my quantum regenerative wellness and research company.
This was great. Thanks for taking time for us to learn more about you and your business. We wish you continued success!
About the Interviewer: Chad Silverstein is a seasoned entrepreneur and Thought Leader with over 25 years of business experience. He has founded, operated, and exited multiple companies and now builds into a handful of high impact CEOs. Chad has launched multiple online communities, including a recent leadership development platform, and also serves as a strategic advisor for Authority Magazine’s thought-leader incubator program.
To learn more and connect with Chad visit: chadsilverstein.io
Purpose Before Profit: Marina Elisa of Peñate | N i k o l i On The Benefits Of Running A… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.