The Fort #70: Megan Hodges - Founder of The Dowry
On today's episode, Chris interviews Megan Hodges, founder of The Dowry - an ethically-minded wedding gift registry and curated artisan marketplace. They discuss Megan's journey as a business owner, the transition of skills from a corporate career to a start up company, the mission behind The Dowry, and Megan's experience in digital marketing. Enjoy!
Follow Chris on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/FortWorthChris
Learn more about Chris Powers and Fort Capital: www.FortCapitalLP.com
Visit The Dowry: www.TheDowry.co
Contact Megan: megan@meganhodges.org
Megan's Favorite Book: Soft Selling in a Hard World
(01:47) — Megan’s Career Before Founding The Dowry
(07:22) — What was the inefficiency you addressed at your previous job? Do you think there are many employees who notice inefficiencies at big companies but never say anything?
(09:56) — Why have you gravitated toward marketing and sales?
(12:52) — Was there a moment when the lightbulb went off to start The Dowry?
(18:36) — The Dowry and Its Mission
(23:52) — When did you officially launch The Dowry?
(28:52) — Are people spending more on gifts since they are not spending money on weddings (due to COVID)?
(30:20) — What was the process of building out The Dowry website?
(33:56) — How has the process of finding artisans evolved?
(38:34) — Do you remember the first artisan who finally said "yes"?
(40:00) — How do you find artisans?
(43:19) — What does your criteria for finding artisans look like?
(45:51) — Do most artisans sell their goods on other platforms as well?
(47:46) — Are the majority of people buying gifts actually invited to the wedding?
(51:36) — How did you pivot to raise capital in March when COVID hit?
(56:32) — When do you think weddings will start to take place again? What do you see a year from today?
(1:00:07) — Who taught you digitally market?
(1:05:30) — What is a naming convention?
(1:07:39) — What is the best way to reach your customer?
(1:10:43) — What does digital marketing look like for your company specifically?
(1:13:35) — How do you feel about Amazon?
(1:16:30) — How big is your target market?
(1:18:29) — What advice would you give to a potential entrepreneur?
(1:20:20) — Do you have a morning routine?
(1:20:51) — What is the best advice you have ever received?
(1:21:50) — What is the best book you have ever read?
(1:23:14) — How can people contact you?
The FORT with Chris Powers is produced by Straight Up Podcasts