EP 109: Bootstrapped, Purpose-Driven, and On Fire: The Product Invention of LavaBox

Oct 6, 2025

37:26

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Born on whitewater, built in an ammo can, Lavabox is Josh Thurmond’s proof that instinct and grit can power a bootstrapped business that gives back and keeps rivers wild.

What does it take to move from a design patent invention built in your garage to a product company trusted by tens of thousands? How do entrepreneurs balance protecting profits with opportunities for scale? And why might wellbeing and values be just as important as growth when inventing a new product and leading a business?

Josh shares how his background as a river guide shaped his entrepreneurship—reading the rapids, trusting instincts, and steering through uncertainty with purpose. He explains why he turned down multi-million-dollar deals, chose to stay 100% independent, and built Lavabox around authenticity, customer input, and community impact.

This episode offers a candid look at the entrepreneurship of product companies, what it really takes to bootstrap from idea to invention while protecting both your business and your wellbeing.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Josh Thurmond and LavaBox

03:16 The Birth of a Design Patent Invention

06:19 Patent Challenges and Market Strategy

10:25 Turning Down Multi-Million Dollar Deals

14:10 Bootstrapping and Financing a Product Company

19:00 Building a Lifestyle Brand and Company Culture

26:11 Giving Back Through Protect Our Rivers

27:46 Resilience and Advice for Entrepreneurs

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