How I Built This with Guy Raz Chobani: Hamdi Ulukaya (2022)
19 snips
Jul 14, 2025 
Hamdi Ulukaya, the founder and CEO of Chobani, shares his inspiring journey from Turkey to America as an immigrant who transformed the yogurt industry. He recalls the pivotal moment when he purchased an abandoned yogurt factory that ignited his entrepreneurial spirit. The podcast covers the early struggles of building Chobani, including financial setbacks and the emotional toll of managing a brand during a crisis. Hamdi emphasizes the importance of community and social responsibility in business, along with Chobani's exciting future plans for expansion.
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Feta Cheese Challenges in U.S.
- Hamdi struggled making quality feta cheese in the U.S. despite his experience.
- Differences in milk and pasteurization required trial and error to get it right.
Buying Abandoned Yogurt Factory
- Hamdi found a cheap, abandoned yogurt factory and saw an opportunity.
- Despite doubts, he decided to buy it to make better yogurt than the big companies.
Obsessed With Yogurt Quality
- Hamdi obsessed over yogurt packaging and recipe details.
- He realized flawless presentation and product quality would convert customers.