About our Founder

Born in the la la land of the least compassion, Los Angeles, CA, Handle with Bear (a play on “handle with care,” because we’re all emotionally delicate) is the response of a heartbroken songwriter and Office Manager who had had it with dating and the music industry, missed her dog, was anxious, healing her childhood trauma, and needed a change… but held on to her goal to heal and inspire others through music. While leaning toward loving herself fully—and silently meditating on what to do next—she realized the importance of keeping her inner child happy in order to keep the best part of herself alive and well.

This company was dreamed up by our Founder, Cristina Leigh Calderaro, on a yoga mat in March of 2022, while surrendering to the universe, recalling her happiest moments as a child and listening to herself intently so she could live her best life.