Athena Cao

Athena Cao, a consumer industry investor based in Beijing, hosts Turner Sparks, a former English teacher turned Mr. Softee franchise founder and now a stand-up comedian. They share Turner's adventure in the ice cream biz, from catchy jingles and mango flavors to fierce competition and ruthless local regulations. Turner humorously recounts tales of backstabbing and clashing with officials that ultimately melted his sweet dreams. The conversation also touches on cultural influences in China's ice cream market and the shift from business to comedy.

Turner Sparks, a former English teacher turned ice cream mogul, shares his wild journey of launching Mister Softee in Suzhou, China. With quirky flavors and a catchy jingle, he initially found success but faced a series of challenges, including regulatory hurdles and sabotage. Athena Cao, a savvy investor, and guest host, dives into the complexities of the local business landscape. From backstabbing competitors to lessons in cultural dynamism, this conversation reveals how entrepreneurial dreams can quickly melt under pressure.