How I Built This with Guy Raz Away: Jen Rubio
Mar 18, 2019
Jen Rubio, co-founder of Away, shares her journey from a suitcase disaster at the airport to launching a travel brand that took the market by storm. She discusses the fusion of stylish design and practicality that appeals to young travelers. From overcoming production delays to using innovative marketing strategies, Jen emphasizes the importance of perseverance and creativity in entrepreneurship. She also reflects on her cultural identity and the transition from traditional career paths to fulfilling her dream, reshaping the luggage industry along the way.
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Childhood Disappointment
- At age seven, Jen Rubio moved from the Philippines to the U.S. with her family.
- Excited by stories of snow, they wore snowsuits on the plane, only to be disappointed by the September heat in Newark.
Early Career
- Jen Rubio discovered a co-op program in college, leading to a job at Johnson & Johnson.
- She loved the corporate world and kept extending her stay, eventually dropping out of college to work.
Freelance Beginnings
- After quitting Neutrogena, Jen Rubio leveraged Tumblr connections to become a freelance social media consultant.
- Starting with small cafes and food trucks, she gained experience and transitioned into marketing for films.