How I Built This with Guy Raz
Spanx: Sara Blakely (2017)
Jul 3, 2017
Spanx founder Sara Blakely's journey from fax machine sales to creating a billion-dollar shapewear brand. The challenges faced, from securing a patent to naming the brand 'Spanx'. Unconventional marketing tactics, like showcasing the product in a bathroom stall, highlighted. Plus, a tech entrepreneur's experience with a friend-matching app on a reality show.
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Quick takeaways
- Sara Blakely's persistence and creativity led to the creation of Spanx, a revolutionary undergarment.
- Sarah prioritized product quality and consumer experience over quick financial gains, maintaining 100% ownership of Spanx.
Deep dives
Sarah Blakely's Journey to Spanx
Sarah Blakely, initially aspiring to be a lawyer, stumbled into the creation of Spanx after failing her LSATs and working various jobs. The idea for Spanx came to her when she discovered the benefits of control top hosiery and saw a gap in the market for a more comfortable and effective undergarment. With only $5,000 in savings, Sarah conducted thorough research, wrote her own patent, and approached manufacturers to bring her idea to life.
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