#174: Michael Cannavo, Co-Founder & CMO of Super73, an American Lifestyle and Transportation Company, on Going Viral, Being the First of Their Kind, the Challenges of Running a Manufacturing Startup, and Building an Authentic Community and Brand

Sep 15, 2020

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Michael Cannavo is the co-founder and CMO of Super73, an American lifestyle and transportation company that designs, manufactures, and distributes one of a kind California branded electric motorbikes. After a successful launch on Kickstarter in 2016, the SUPER73 brand has quickly grown into one of the most recognizable two-wheeled electric vehicle brands in the world, with a passionate customer base that includes the likes of Will Smith, Jaime Foxx, and Madonna. Based in Orange County, California, Super73's mission is to build the world's best electric motorbikes and cultivate a passionate community while providing an exceptional customer experience.

Michael specializes in viral marketing, social media content, and influencer partnerships. In the brief moments that his life isn't isn't revolving around the bright sun of Super73, he hosts a sci-fi podcast accompanied by multiple social media accounts.

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Some of the Topics Covered by Michael Cannavo in this Episode

How Super73 got started
Viral marketing and connecting with influencers
Fundraising through Kickstarter and raising half a million dollars in 30 days
Figuring out early manufacturing with 3 employees after suddenly selling 600 bikes
Being the first of their kind
Maintaining growth after going viral
Shifting to overseas manufacturing
Becoming a community brand
Product development and Super73's current product offerings
Challenges with distribution and developing a European version of the brand
Developing authentic relationships
The biggest challenge they've faced in growing Super73, especially during COVID
From bootstrapping to raising their Series A and how Michael sees fundraising moving forward
The challenges of being a manufacturing startup
The Super73 App and what's next for the company
The big vision for Super73
Michael's book recommendations
Michael's advice for entrepreneurs

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