Avsnitt
-
What do you get when you combine a great-grandmother’s Swedish cookie recipe, a mother-daughter duo, and a lot of grit?
You get Spritzal, a clean-label cookie brand disrupting the cookie aisle with shortbread bites made from real, simple ingredients.
In this episode, I sit down with Taylor Walker, COO and Co-founder of Spritzal, to talk about how a family recipe evolved into a brand that’s winning over retailers, shoppers, and sweet tooths alike.
Taylor shares the 10-year journey of building Spritzal, from hand-pressing cookies in a home kitchen to scaling manufacturing and launching with major retailers. We also talk about what it takes to stand out in a crowded category and the power of resilience, belief, and, of course, butter.
Key Moments in This Episode:
🍪 How a family recipe turned into a national cookie brand📦 The big pivot: from clamshell packaging to resealable bags
🛒 Getting into retail: what buyers really want
📈 Bootstrapping, burnout, and the decision not to quit
🥇 Why clean ingredients and smart branding win shelf space
Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Taylor Walker as we explore what makes Spritzal cookies and this brand unique.
For more on Spritzal, visit: https://spritzal.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures- Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.
Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above.
Today’s Highlighted Brand:
Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/
If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.
Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies.
Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study! Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!
Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now! -
What happens when two passionate entrepreneurs set out to reinvent the non-alcoholic drinking experience?
In this episode, I sit down with Oliver Spring and Sophia Racciatti, Co-Founders of Ooso, to discuss their journey of creating a sparkling tea inspired by natural wine. From late-night kitchen experiments to landing on retail shelves, they share how they built a brand that brings complexity, sophistication, and design-forward thinking to the non-alcoholic space.
Oliver and Sophia dive into the challenges of launching a beverage brand, the importance of great branding, and why consumer education is key to success in the growing non-alcoholic market.
Key Moments in This Episode:
✅ The Spark Behind Ooso – How a personal lifestyle shift led to a brand idea.✅ From Idea to Market – The year-long journey of formulation and brand building.
✅ Retail Strategy & Challenges – What it takes to get on store shelves.
✅ Why Packaging Matters – The role of branding in consumer adoption.
✅ The Future of Non-Alcoholic Beverages – Trends shaping the category.
Join me, Ramon Vela, for this insightful and inspiring conversation with Oliver and Sophia as we explore the future of better-for-you beverages!
For more on Ooso, visit: https://drinkooso.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more.
Today’s Highlighted Brand:
Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/
If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.
Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies.
Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study! Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!
Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now! -
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
Women’s health should be accessible, judgment-free, and rooted in real solutions, but that hasn’t always been the case.
In this episode, I sit down with Jamie Norwood, Co-founder of Winx Health, to discuss how her brand is challenging outdated norms, improving access to essential products, and leading the charge in reproductive and vaginal health. From over-the-counter emergency contraception to at-home testing, Winx Health is redefining how women take control of their well-being.
Jamie shares the challenges of breaking into retail, the impact of misinformation on women’s health, and why proactive education is just as important as the products themselves.
Key Moments in This Episode:
✅ Why Women’s Health Needs More Transparency – Breaking down stigmas and outdated norms.
✅ The Road to Retail – What it takes to get women’s health products on store shelves.
✅ Myth-Busting & Misinformation – How confusion prevents women from getting the care they need.
✅ At-Home Testing & Telehealth – The future of accessible, judgment-free healthcare.✅ Building a Mission-Driven Brand – Lessons in advocacy, resilience, and business growth.
Join me, Ramon Vela, for this powerful and necessary conversation with Jamie Norwood as we explore the future of women’s health!
For more on Winx Health, visit: https://hellowinx.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.
Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. -
Jewelry isn’t just about sparkle—it’s about storytelling, sentiment, and capturing life’s most meaningful moments.
In this episode, I sit down with Simone Kendle, CEO of Wove, to discuss how this brand redefines the fine jewelry experience with custom designs, technology, and a personal touch. From engagement rings to viral moments, Simone shares how Wove is making luxury jewelry more accessible, personal, and deeply meaningful.
Simone also discusses the strategy behind Wove’s recent viral success, the importance of operational excellence, and how the brand is scaling without losing its custom-first approach.
Key Moments in This Episode:
✅ From Engagement Rings to Everyday Jewelry – How Wove expands beyond bridal.✅ The 10% Luck, 90% Preparation Rule – The truth behind viral moments.
✅ Scaling Customization – How Wove balances handcrafted quality with technology.
✅ The Power of Personalization – Why consumers want more than off-the-shelf jewelry.
✅ Leading a Brand with Intentionality – Simone’s journey from startup marketing to CEO.
Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this insightful and inspiring conversation with Simone Kendle and explore the future of custom fine jewelry!
For more on Wove, visit https://wovemade.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Showa rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above.
Today’s Highlighted Brand:
Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/
If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.
Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies.
Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study! Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!
Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now! -
What if prenatal and reproductive health went beyond pregnancy?
In this episode, I sit down with Ayla Barmmer, Founder & CEO of FullWell, to discuss the critical role of nutrition in fertility, pregnancy, and overall reproductive wellness for both women and men.
As a registered dietitian and integrative health expert, Ayla shares how evidence-based formulations, transparency, and education are changing the landscape of prenatal and fertility supplements.
Ayla opens up about the science behind essential nutrients, why preconception health matters, and the industry-wide gaps FullWell is solving.
Key Moments in This Episode:
✅ Beyond Prenatals: Why reproductive health isn’t just for pregnancy.✅ The Three-to-Six-Month Rule: How nutrition before conception shapes lifelong health.
✅ Trust & Transparency in Supplements: What to look for in high-quality vitamins.
✅ Why Men’s Fertility Matters: The often-overlooked role of male reproductive health.
✅ Building FullWell: How Ayla turned clinical expertise into a mission-driven brand.
Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this insightful, science-backed conversation with Ayla Barmmer and explore the future of reproductive wellness!
For more on FullWell, visit https://fullwellfertility.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
Most sparkling water brands sound the same, look the same, and talk to the same consumer but Mike Pilkington, Co-founder & CEO of Key Sparkling Water, saw an opportunity to do things differently.
In this episode, we discuss how Key Sparkling Water is challenging the status quo with real ingredients, crafted carbonation, and a bold new approach to branding.
Mike shares insights on building a brand that stands out in a crowded market, the shifting culture around alcohol, and why knowing your core consumer is key to long-term success.
Key Moments in This Episode:
✅ Why the Sparkling Water Market Needed a Shake-Up – The story behind Key’s unique positioning.✅ The Power of Real Ingredients – Why Key chose real fruit over "natural flavors" and why it matters.
✅ The Decline of Alcohol & the Rise of Better Alternatives – The cultural shift that’s changing drinking habits.
✅ Building a Brand with Intention – Why understanding your consumer on a deep level is the secret to success.
✅ Lessons from Sysco & Death Wish Coffee – What Mike learned from his corporate career and how he applied it to entrepreneurship.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful and energizing conversation with Mike Pilkington as we explore the future of better-for-you beverages and category disruption!
For more on Key Sparkling Water, visit: https://keysparklingwater.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. -
What if you could naturally support your body’s appetite regulation without injections or synthetic drugs?
In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Kennedy, CEO of Calocurb, to dive into a revolutionary approach to hunger management and GLP-1 activation.Backed by 14 years of research and $30 million in funding, Calocurb is a clinically tested, plant-based supplement designed to help consumers take control of their cravings and portion size without side effects.
Sarah shares how her personal journey, cutting-edge science, and a mission to transform weight management led to one of the most innovative natural solutions on the market today.
Key Moments in This Episode:
* The Science Behind Natural GLP-1 Activation – How Calocurb helps reduce hunger, cravings, and calorie intake.
* A New Approach to Weight Management – Why controlling hormonal hunger signals is more effective than willpower alone.* Coming Off GLP-1 Injectables? – How Calocurb is being used to help people transition off Ozempic and Wegovy.
* Debunking Diet Myths – Why weight management is about more than just “eat less, move more.”
* The Future of Health & Nutrition – Where the industry is headed and how Calocurb is leading the charge.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful and empowering conversation with Sarah Kennedy as we explore the future of natural weight management!
For more on Calocurb, visit: https://www.calocurb.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify. Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures- Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.
Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
In today’s episode, I sit down with Yash Chavan, the founder of Saral, to talk about what’s changed in influencer marketing, what’s working right now, and how brands can build long-term, authentic partnerships with influencers.
We dive into the evolution of the influencer space, why attention is the new currency, and how brands can stop wasting money on the wrong influencer deals. Yash breaks down his game-changing strategy—one that flips the script on traditional influencer marketing and helps brands build a sustainable, scalable pipeline of real advocates. If you're serious about growth, this episode is packed with must-know insights!
Key Moments in This Episode:
* The Attention Economy – Why getting the right kind of attention matters more than ever.
* Building Your Influencer "Secret Society" – The three-layer strategy that separates successful brands from the rest.
* The New Way to Pay Influencers – How brands can de-risk partnerships and only invest in proven creators.
* Common Mistakes to Avoid – Why follower count means nothing without real influence.
* The Future of Influencer Marketing – How AI, authenticity, and trust will shape the next wave of brand partnerships.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful episode with Yash Chavan as we uncover the real strategies behind influencer marketing success! 🎧
For more on Saral, visit: https://www.getsaral.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
If you love stories of resilience, grit, and entrepreneurial spirit, today’s episode is exactly that.
Meet Molly Blakeley, the powerhouse founder of Molly Bz Cookies, who went from being a single mom with just $150 to her name to building a nationally recognized brand. Molly’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—full of hustle, creative problem-solving, and an unstoppable mindset.
We talk about the highs and lows of building a business, from baking cookies in her kitchen to landing in major retailers like Costco and Walmart. Molly shares the behind-the-scenes hustle, the power of saying "yes" before you figure it out, and how she turned obstacles into stepping stones for success. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a brand from the ground up, this episode is for you!
Key Moments in This Episode:
* The $150 Gamble – How Molly turned her last bit of money into a booming cookie business.
* From Food Truck to National Brand – The creative way she tested and validated her cookie concept.
* Bold Moves & No Limits – Why asking, taking risks, and ignoring self-imposed limitations led to her big break.
* The Walmart Open Call Success – How Molly’s hustle landed her two golden tickets and an exclusive Walmart cookie.
* Lessons in Entrepreneurship – Her insights on rejection, mindset, and pivoting to keep growing.
Join us in listening to this incredible episode with Molly Blakeley as she shares the highs, the lows, and everything in between in building Molly Bz Cookies!
For more on Molly Bz Cookies, visit: https://mollybz.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
In this episode, Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, sits down with Pete Maldonado and Rashid Ali, Co-founders and Co-CEOs of CHOMPS, the fastest-growing food brand in the U.S.
From humble beginnings to over $500 million in retail sales, Pete and Rashid have built a brand redefining the snacking industry with high-quality, healthy, and delicious meat snacks.
What I love about this conversation is how Pete and Rashid dive into the lessons they’ve learned, the mistakes they’ve made, and the strategies that have fueled their success. Whether you’re a founder, a business leader, or someone passionate about entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable takeaways.
Key Moments in This Episode:
* Building from Scratch: How Pete and Rashid leveraged their complementary skills and a deep understanding of their customers to build a loyal community around CHOMPS.
* Focus on Brand Awareness: Why keeping brand awareness ahead of distribution has been their key to scaling successfully while maintaining customer loyalty.
* Lessons in Resilience: How bootstrapping through challenges—like raising $1 million in a weekend to fund a Trader Joe’s order—helped them grow sustainably.
* Innovation with Simplicity: The power of focusing on a core product lineup while introducing customer-driven innovations like pantry packs to meet evolving needs.
* The CHOMPian Culture: How Pete and Rashid maintain their original values and foster a strong company culture, even as their team and operations scale rapidly.
Join us in listening to this insightful episode where Pete and Rashid share the secrets behind CHOMPS’ incredible growth and their mission to create a better-for-you brand that resonates with consumers. Let’s dive into their journey and learn how to build a purpose-driven and wildly successful business. Enjoy the show!
For more on CHOMPS, visit: https://chomps.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.
Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
From the archive: This episode was originally recorded and published on May 26, 2022. Our interviews on The Story of a Brand Shows are meant to be evergreen, and we do our best to confirm that all offers and URLs in these archive episodes are still relevant.
In this episode of The Story of a Brand, I interview Anthony Ciavirella, Co-founder of Manmade.
Anthony and his co-founders are redefining men’s essentials with a focus on quality, simplicity, and authenticity. From leaving their finance careers to perfecting their products, their story is filled with grit, innovation, and a relentless drive to create something extraordinary.
In this episode, we explore what it takes to build a product-driven brand, the journey of creating boxer briefs and socks that truly deliver on quality, and how TikTok and customer feedback became game-changers for their growth. Anthony’s passion and insights into entrepreneurship will leave you inspired and ready to take action.
Key Moments in This Episode:
* From Finance to Fashion: How four best friends left their corporate careers, locked themselves in a cabin, and came out with a plan to build a legacy brand.
* The Power of Listening: Why calling over 1,000 customers and gathering feedback was critical to perfecting their products.
* TikTok Success Story: How leveraging trends and authentic storytelling on TikTok helped the brand gain viral attention and organic growth.
* Redefining Men’s Essentials: The attention to detail behind Manmade’s products, including their innovative “drop-top fly” boxer briefs and no-slip socks.
* Commitment to Sustainability and Quality: The challenges and rewards of creating premium products without cutting corners or compromising values.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this fascinating episode as Anthony takes us behind the scenes of building a purpose-driven brand that puts men’s wellness first without the BS. Enjoy the show!
For more on Manmade, visit: https://us.manmadebrand.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.
Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
In this episode of The Story of a Brand Show, I interview Tom Binder, Co-founder of The Real Cereal Co.
From leaving a comfortable job to investing in a self-owned facility to a deep commitment to simple, clean ingredients and sustainability, this story is one of grit, big dreams, and redefining what breakfast cereal can be.
Whether you're a founder, a food enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good story about innovation and values-driven entrepreneurship, this conversation is for you.
Key Moments in This Episode:
* The Power of Family Support: How Tom’s family believed in his vision and supported him through the rollercoaster of building a brand from the ground up.
* Revolutionizing Cereal: Why The Real Cereal Co. is challenging the status quo by creating products with just one or two simple, clean ingredients.
* Going All In: Tom explains why investing in a dedicated manufacturing facility early on was key to staying true to the brand’s values.
* Balancing Risk and Vision: “Go big or go home” is Tom’s motto, and he shares how taking calculated risks has driven the company’s growth.
* Eco-Friendly Innovation: The importance of sustainable packaging and why The Real Cereal Co. is committed to reducing environmental impact.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful episode as Tom Binder takes us behind the scenes of building a brand that’s setting new standards in the food industry.
Check out The Real Cereal Co. at realcereal.com and find out where you can try their delicious and healthy cereals. Let’s dive in!
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.
SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands: https://storybrandoffer.com/
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Try it risk-free with an extended 14-day trial, exclusively for The Story of a Brand Podcast listeners. Start today! Visit the link above. -
In today’s episode of The Story of a Brand Show, I interviewed Rosa Li, the inspiring Founder and CEO of wildwonder.
Her brand is rooted in a beautiful blend of her Chinese heritage and California influences, offering gut-healthy sparkling beverages that are as delicious as they are beneficial.
From early entrepreneurial hurdles to the game-changing impact of appearing on Shark Tank, Rosa shares the incredible story of how her grandmother’s herbal tonics inspired Wildwonder and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of building a mission-driven brand.
Key Moments in This Episode:
* From Passion to Product: How Rosa’s childhood memories of her grandmother’s herbal tonics inspired her to create wildwonder, blending Eastern herbal wisdom with California’s fresh produce.
* Pivoting in the Pandemic: Rosa shares how COVID-19 wiped out her initial business model and forced her to knock on over 300 grocery store doors to keep her dream alive.
* The Shark Tank Effect: Learn how appearing on Shark Tank not only boosted awareness but also drove long-lasting customer loyalty and repeat business.
* Operations First, Marketing Later: Rosa explains why focusing on product quality and operational efficiency before investing in marketing was critical to wildwonder’s success.
* Representation in Retail: Rosa discusses her mission to bring cultural representation and unique, botanically influenced flavors to retail shelves, creating a brand that stands out.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful episode, where Rosa shares how wildwonder is making waves in the beverage industry and leaving a lasting impact on communities.
For more on wildwonder, visit: https://drinkwildwonder.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand Increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.
Shopline U.S. - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story
Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link. -
I’m thrilled to have Chris Meade back on the show. You might remember Chris as the co-founder of CROSSNET, the four-way volleyball game that has taken backyards and beaches by storm. But today, he’s here to talk about his exciting new venture, The Founders Club, a community designed to support entrepreneurs in navigating the ups and downs of building a business—and life.
In this episode, Chris shares his journey from bootstrapping CROSSNET to seeing it become a staple in major retailers like Target and Costco. Along the way, he opens up about the lessons learned, mistakes made, and how those experiences inspired him to create a space where founders can connect, grow, and thrive.
Whether it’s about overcoming loneliness, avoiding costly mistakes, or balancing business and life, Chris’s insights are invaluable for anyone on the entrepreneurial path.
🔑 Key Moments in This Episode:
* The Origin of CROSSNET: How Chris and his friends invented a four-way volleyball net and turned it into a national sensation, now played in over 15,000 schools and countless backyards.
* Lessons from the Trenches: Chris discusses the challenges he faced as an entrepreneur, from inventory mishaps to navigating a potential business exit, and how those moments shaped his vision for The Founders Club.
* The Power of Community: Why entrepreneurship can be isolating and how The Founders Club fosters meaningful connections through local chapters, events, and mastermind groups.
* Addressing the Whole Entrepreneur: The club’s focus on more than just business growth, covering topics like financial literacy, personal well-being, and maintaining strong relationships.
* Practical Advice for Founders: Chris offers actionable tips, like how to invest wisely post-exit, the importance of planning ahead, and why understanding your “why” is key to success.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this inspiring conversation as we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey, the value of community, and the importance of balancing ambition with personal well-being. Chris’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, connection, and never giving up on your dreams.
For more on The Founders Club, visit: https://www.foundersclubofficial.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.
SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands: https://storybrandoffer.com/
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Try it risk-free with an extended 14-day trial, exclusively for The Story of a Brand Podcast listeners. Start today! Visit the link above. -
In this episode, Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, sits down with Mike Glick, the innovative Co-founder and CEO of Goode Health.
Mike shared his journey from working in large-scale nutrition to building a groundbreaking, personalized superfood brand. His passion for nutrition and commitment to helping people take charge of their health shines through as he discusses how Goode Health leverages technology, data, and smart product design to transform daily routines into healthy habits.
If you’ve ever been curious about biohacking, personalized wellness, or the future of nutrition, this episode is for you!
Key Takeaways:
* From Big Nutrition to Innovation: Mike’s journey from working at Abbott Nutrition to launching Goode Health and what inspired his focus on personalized wellness.
* The Science Behind Superfoods: How Goode Health uses polyphenols, clean ingredients, and customization to create a powerful yet scalable product.
* Blending Tech and Nutrition: Why personalization, backed by wearables and biomarkers, is the next frontier in health.
* Tackling Wellness Trends: How Goode Health is positioning itself to complement health trends like GLP-1 usage and the rise of nutrient-dense diets.
* Retention Ready from Day One: The importance of starting with retention strategies and creating tools to help consumers stay engaged, like journals and recipe guides.
Join us in listening to the episode as Mike shares his vision for the future of health, his entrepreneurial lessons, and why Goode Health is poised to redefine the wellness industry. 🎧
For more on Goode Health, visit: https://www.goodehealth.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.
Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
In this episode of The Story of a Brand Show, I interview Cleo Davis-Urman, the founder of Barrière, about her groundbreaking innovation in the vitamin and wellness space.
Cleo shares her inspiring journey from working in luxury fashion to reimagining how we take vitamins with her patented transdermal patches. What started as a personal need has become a product combining functionality, design, and self-expression, making wellness accessible, stylish, and practical. From navigating manufacturing hurdles to embracing customer feedback, her journey is a masterclass in perseverance, innovation, and building a brand with heart.
Key Moments to Look Out For:
* The Spark of Innovation: How Cleo's health challenges led her to invent transdermal vitamin patches.
* Bridging Wellness and Style: Creating wearable "works of art" that make health routines fun and expressive.
* Consumer-Centric Iteration: Leveraging customer feedback to refine the product for accessibility and appeal.
* Overcoming Hurdles: Finding the right manufacturing partner and perfecting the product over three years.
* Advice for Entrepreneurs: Patience, trust in the process, and not letting fear of failure hold you back.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode! You won’t want to miss this inspiring story of resilience, creativity, and innovation.
For more on Barrière, visit: https://www.mybarriere.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.
Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story
What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. -
In today’s episode of The Story of a Brand, I interview Neal Goyal, a passionate leader and VP of Strategic Sales at Disco.
Neal shares his fascinating journey from sales executive to mentor and industry leader alongside his insights on the evolving e-commerce landscape. From driving innovation in customer acquisition to helping brands unlock new revenue streams, Neal offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Here are some highlights from our conversation:
* From Sales to Leadership: Neal’s career shift from a top-performing sales executive to an advocate for mentorship and team success.
* The Power of Post-Purchase: How Disco Network helps brands monetize post-purchase real estate for added profitability.
* Customer-Centric Advertising: Using AI and machine learning to target high-value customers across an integrated ad network.
* Driving LTV Growth: Why lifetime value is critical for profitability and how brands can achieve it with innovative tools.
* Monetizing Real Estate: Turning underutilized website spaces into profit centers with Disco’s retail media network capabilities.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful episode as Neal shares his passion for leadership, customer-centric innovation, and how Disco Network is helping brands thrive in an ever-competitive market.
For more on Disco, visit: https://www.disconetwork.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.
SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands: https://storybrandoffer.com/
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Try it risk-free with an extended 14-day trial, exclusively for The Story of a Brand Podcast listeners. Start today! Visit the link above. -
In today’s episode of The Story of a Brand Show, I had the pleasure of chatting with Joshua Britton, Founder, CEO, visionary innovator, and the driving force behind DEINDE and its parent company, Debut Biotechnology.
Joshua's story is of relentless determination, groundbreaking science, and a mission to redefine skincare and beauty through biotech innovation. From living in a one-bedroom apartment to running a company that merges artificial intelligence, molecular biology, and skincare, Joshua’s journey is as inspiring as it is transformative.
Here are some highlights from our conversation:
* A Life-Changing Uber Ride: How a 7-minute conversation led to a $100,000 investment that launched it all.
* Science Meets Beauty: The revolutionary process behind crafting new molecules for skin health.
* Redefining Clean Beauty: Why biotech is the next evolution in sustainable and effective skincare.
* From Academia to Entrepreneurship: Lessons learned transitioning from the lab to the business world.
* Breaking the Mold: How DEINDE's innovative approach is creating products that outperform traditional ingredients.
Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this fascinating episode as Joshua shares the science, passion, and purpose driving DEINDE and Debut Biotech. 🎧
For more on DEINDE, visit: https://www.deinde.com/For more on Debut BioTechnology, visit: https://www.debutbiotech.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand Increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.
Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story
Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link. -
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sean Goldsmith, Co-founder and CEO of The Zero Proof, a trailblazer in the non-alcoholic beverage space.
Sean shared his journey of turning a personal decision to abstain from alcohol into a thriving business that’s reshaping how people socialize and enjoy beverages without compromise.
We explored the rise of non-alcoholic options, the challenges of building a marketplace and brand, and how Sean’s team makes premium non-alcoholic drinks accessible and exciting. Whether you’re curious about non-alcoholic trends or interested in entrepreneurial insights, this episode is a must-listen!
Key Moments in the Podcast:
* How Sean’s decision to stop drinking inspired The Zero Proof’s creation and mission.
* The challenges of building a marketplace for curated non-alcoholic products.
* How The Zero Proof helps customers find their perfect drink through innovative curation and education.
* Insights into the growing non-alcoholic beverage industry and its impact on social habits.
* Sean’s advice for entrepreneurs: focus on unit economics, gross margin, and scaling smartly.
💡 Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and learn how The Zero Proof is leading the way in this exciting category. Whether you’re a non-drinker or just curious about the possibilities, this conversation offers something for everyone.
For more on The Zero Proof, visit: https://thezeroproof.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.
SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands: https://storybrandoffer.com/
SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Try it risk-free with an extended 14-day trial, exclusively for The Story of a Brand Podcast listeners. Start today! Visit the link above. -
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Roger Barnett, Chairman and CEO of Shaklee, a company that has been transforming health and wellness for over 65 years.
Roger shared his incredible journey of acquiring and growing Shaklee, his dedication to purpose-driven business, and how Shaklee’s innovative approach to prevention is changing lives globally.
We dove into his vision of creating a sustainable business that not only provides superior products backed by clinical proof but also empowers communities to live healthier and more fulfilling lives. This conversation is packed with insights into leadership, innovation, and the impact of building a purpose-driven brand.
Key Moments in the Podcast:
* The personal story that led Roger to focus on prevention and health as a lifelong mission.
* How Shaklee’s community-driven business model delivers better health outcomes and fosters lasting connections.
* The importance of clinical proof and quality in Shaklee’s products, from personalized nutrition to eco-friendly home solutions.
* Roger’s vision for the future of health, including the role of cellular health and personalized solutions.
* Advice for entrepreneurs on building long-term value and creating businesses that align profit with purpose.
💡 Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode to discover how Shaklee is making a difference in people’s lives and leading the way in health and wellness innovation. You don’t want to miss this inspiring conversation!
For more on Shaklee, visit: https://us.shaklee.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.
Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.
Your support helps us bring you more content like this!
*
Today’s Sponsors:
Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/
Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand Increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.
Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story
Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link. - Visa fler
