Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Susanna Herlitz-Ferguson

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Susanna Herlitz-Ferguson. Check out our conversation below.

Susanna, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: When was the last time you felt true joy?
I’ve felt a lot of joy recently, but one moment stands out above all. This might be a bit serious for an icebreaker question, but when you asked, it immediately came to mind. My son Trey struggled with addiction for many years, and as his mother, I struggled tremendously with him, as anyone with an addict in the family would understand This summer, Trey gave a TED talk about his journey and the programs he has started to help other young men like him. When the audience rose to give him a standing ovation, the joy I felt was overwhelming. Joy can come from a flower or a smile, but the joy that comes after a long struggle—there’s nothing quite like it.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Susanna Herlitz-Ferguson, owner of MV Salads on Martha’s Vineyard. We focus on fresh, locally inspired salads and farm-to-table ingredients, and I’ve created my own dressing, MV The Dressing, which is available on Amazon. I’m also an Amazon best-selling author of my book “Made with Kindness.” What makes MV Salads special is my commitment to quality, creativity, and a true sense of community. I’m not just selling food, I’m sharing a little taste of the Vineyard with everyone who comes through the doors. Outside the shop, I love taking on special projects, from recipe development to events, that bring people together.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
Without a doubt, my dad. From early childhood, I watched the joy he brought to his work life and everything he did: his positivity, his enthusiasm, his ability to tackle any task with energy. But the truly amazing thing? When he came home, work stayed at the door. He gave his full attention to family and friends—a premium quality, honestly. Me? I like to think I’m trying, but let’s just say I still have room to grow in that regard and be less preoccupied with my work life.. I guess some lessons are easier to admire than to follow!

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Honestly, the fear of the unknown, the big “what if.” It is amazing how two tiny words can stop me in my tracks.
That little voice of doubt can make me hesitate, even when the opportunity in front of me might be exactly what I have been waiting for. Over time, I’ve learned that the “what if” can be paralyzing, but it can also be a doorway. My trick is reminding myself that the unknown isn’t always something to fear. Quite often, it can also be where the best surprises live. And I try to remember some of those surprises.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
John Lewis—without question. What I admire most is that his influence didn’t come from power in the traditional sense. He wasn’t chasing titles or authority; he was driven by his convictions. He believed so deeply in justice that he was willing to get into “good trouble” for it, again and again. To me, that shows the strength of character is far more powerful than any position or office.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
This is a silly but true little story, and when you asked the question, it’s what immediately came to mind. When I was a little kid on summer vacation, my dad asked what my ONE wish would be. I dreamed big: I wished I could swim underwater without holding my nose. Two days later, boom—I could do it. And then I thought, “Seriously? Something so trivial is what I spent my one wish on?!” Let’s just say I learned back then that the smart play is always to wish for more wishes.

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Sofiia Wiley

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