EP 252 - We talk to Kevin - Founder of artisan iced tea brand Kaytea - about the reality of raising money, challenges dealing with product buyers and the pain of fighting for shelf space in a crowded market. We ask Kevin why he started an ice tea brand, his experience launching the business during COVID and why he values having a mentor.

Kevin also tells us why he thinks people being 'too busy to reply to emails' qualifies for the big bin of bullshit.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to BWB

00:59 Challenges in Food and Beverage

05:01 Exploring the Journey of Starting a Business

06:29 Deep Dive into the Tea Industry and Market

08:03 The Story Behind KAYTEA

10:39 Realities of the Beverage Market

18:09 Fundraising and Distribution Challenges

18:47 Intrusive Emails and Shareholders

19:30 Power of Being a Shareholder

19:47 Biggest Business Mistakes and Lessons

20:22 Challenges of Natural Product Manufacturing

22:01 Importance of Having a Business Mentor

23:39 Art of Marketing and Its Challenges

25:17 Role of Mentors in Business Success

32:31 Impact of Cancel Culture on Business

33:25 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Kevin

37:35 30 Second Pitch: Kaytea

38:10 Closing Remarks

Kevin's recommendations:

The Grocer (magazine)

The Economist (magazine)

Hungry (podcast)

Brand Growth Heroes (podcast)

Zoe (podcast)

How I Built This (podcast)

FKJ (musician)

businesswithoutbullshit.me

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