#378 What happens when you flip a jet ski, lose a $500 pair of sunglasses, and decide to build a better solution? You create one of the fastest-growing independent eyewear brands in the country! In this episode hosted by Brien Gearin, Jon Strauss, founder of Neven Eyewear, shares how that frustrating experience sparked a journey that led to a $30 million business. He dives into the challenges of breaking into a monopolized industry, how a bold “Buy One, Get Two Free” offer changed everything, and why customer experience and quality matter more than flashy branding. You’ll also hear about Neven’s expansion into prescription lenses, their unique partnership with 3,500+ doctors’ offices, and what it really takes to scale a direct-to-consumer e-commerce brand from zero to millions!

What we discuss with Jon:

+ Lost sunglasses sparked the idea

+ Launched with no initial sales

+ Breakthrough: buy one, get two free

+ Self-funded, bootstrapped growth

+ Found key supplier through trial

+ Navigated FDA eyewear regulations

+ $30M+ annual revenue milestone

+ Partnered with 3,500+ doctors’ offices

+ Prioritizes affordability and quality

+ Strong focus on customer service

Thank you, Jon!

Episode 1 - Stories of Healing

No Porn Marriage

Intro

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