The Story of a Brand

In this episode of "The Story of a Brand," host Ramon Vela interviews Maria Covarrubias, Founder and Culinary Magician of Cien Chiles.  Maria shares her inspiring journey from Guadalajara to becoming an entrepreneur, emphasizing her passion, resilience, and dedication. She discusses the pivotal role of gratitude in her life, highlighting a supportive Whole Foods cashier who believed in her vision. Maria delves into the challenges and triumphs of building Cien Chiles, emphasizing the importance of non-GMO certification for consumer trust. She describes the creation of her sauces, inspired by family recipes and crafted with wholesome ingredients to complement meals without overpowering them. She offers practical tips for using her sauces in various dishes. Maria's commitment shines through as she talks about running Cien Chiles with her husband, successfully placing their products in over 200 retailers. She advises aspiring entrepreneurs on patience, steady growth, and building the right partnerships. Visit cienchiles.com for recipes and follow them on social media for updates. This episode celebrates vision, gratitude, and sharing authentic flavors. For more on Cien Chiles, visit: https://cienchiles.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review. Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link. Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link.

Welcome to our latest episode, in which Ramon Vela delves into Scentbird's fragrant journey, exploring the transformative power of fragrance and the entrepreneurial insights that have driven the brand's success.  Andrei Rebrov, Co-Founder and CTO of Scentbird reflects on the critical support from Murat Aktihanoglu of Entrepreneur Roundtable Accelerator (ERA) during their early days in the US, highlighting the significance of kindness for immigrant entrepreneurs.  In this episode, you’ll also discover how Scentbird has evolved from offering fragrance samples to pioneering a subscription model, enhancing customer engagement through innovative technological integrations.  We'll also explore people's emotional connections with scents and how Scentbird leverages customer data to create personalized fragrance experiences.  Tune in for valuable business advice, fragrance highlights, and insights into the future of Scentbird technology. For more on Scentbird, visit: https://www.Scentbird.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review. Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link. Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business?  Visit our unique link.

In this enlightening episode, Ramon Vela dives deep with Ari Tulla, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Elo Health, exploring the evolving landscape of health and wellness and the role of technology in shaping our daily habits.  Here’s what we covered: * Authenticity in Branding * Social Media and Transparency * The Power of Routine * Overcoming Health Habit Hurdles * Tech Meets Health * Medication vs. Natural Methods for Weight Loss * Market Dynamics and Consumer Preferences * Elo Health’s Innovations * Ari’s Personal Health Practices Whether you’re a health enthusiast, a tech-savvy individual, or simply looking to improve your well-being, this episode offers valuable insights into making healthier choices in our fast-paced world. Join us as we uncover the trends shaping the future of wellness, guided by one of the industry’s leading voices, Ari Tulla.  For more on Elo Health, visit: https://www.elo.health/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review. Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link. Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link.

In this insightful episode, Ramon Vela delves into the captivating journey of Don Clark, the CEO behind Cerebelly, a trailblazing organic baby food company committed to nurturing cognitive development from infancy.  From his early days in retail at Target to spearheading Cerebelly, Don shares his vision, including how the Whole Foods model inspired him to venture into the organic baby food industry with a strong emphasis on health and cognitive development.  He also discusses Cerebelly’s ambitious plan to revolutionize baby food and foster a healthier future generation through informed nutrition choices. Tune in to uncover the pivotal moments, challenges, and inspirations that propelled Don to redefine organic nutrition for the younger generation. For more on Cerebelly, visit: https://cerebelly.com/ This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and Shopline USA.    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review on Apple and Spotify. Plus, don’t forget to follow us! Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link. Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link.

In this episode, Ramon Vela dives deep into the heart of Wildfang with its CEO, Emma Mcilroy.  Wildfang, known for its groundbreaking approach to fashion and inclusivity, owes its success to early supporters like soccer icon Megan Rapinoe.  Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a fashion enthusiast, or someone passionate about inclusivity and sustainability, this conversation with Emma Mcilroy offers valuable insights, inspiring stories, and a reminder of the power of community and shared values in creating impactful brands. Join us for an insider’s view of how Wildfang has navigated the fashion world with resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to making a difference.  For more on Wildfang, visit: https://www.wildfang.com/   For full show notes, visit: https://www.thestoryofabrand.com/ This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and Shopline USA.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating, review, and a follow on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.   Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business?  Visit our unique link.

In today’s episode, Rose Hamilton takes a deep dive into the heart of innovation in women’s health with guest Sophia Yen, MD, MPH, Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Pandia Health. This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and Shopline USA.  Launched in 2016, Pandia Health has been at the forefront of revolutionizing access to birth control and is now expanding its horizon to tackle issues in menopause and obesity.  Join us as we explore the journey, challenges, and future of women’s healthcare through the lens of a pioneering company. Key Themes of Our Episode: * Pandia Health’s Mission: Discover how Pandia Health is solving the accessibility challenges women face in obtaining birth control, providing not just delivery services but also personalized options and telemedicine consultations. * Expanding Care to Menopause and Obesity: Understand the company’s future plans to include specialized care in menopause symptoms, osteoporosis risk management, and obesity, emphasizing the importance of personalized healthcare. * Challenges in Advertising Women’s Health: Hear about the obstacles Pandia Health faces with advertising restrictions on major platforms and how they overcome these through organic SEO, educational content, and strategic partnerships. * The Role of AI and Marketing in Healthcare: Delve into the significance of AI in marketing, the essential need for trustworthy content, and why diversity in algorithms matters in promoting women’s health effectively. * Navigating Fundraising and the Startup Ecosystem: Gain insights into the fundraising difficulties women’s health startups face, the advocacy for ethical practices, and the pivotal role of women-led companies in the healthcare sector. * The Importance of Diversity in Venture Capital: Learn about the push for more diversity in venture capital, the encouragement of women investors, and the support needed for women-founded businesses to thrive. * Empowerment and Encouragement for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Dr. Yen shares her message for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing persistence, the value of diverse representation, and seeking support from communities and resources. Closing Thoughts: Dr. Sophia Yen’s journey with Pandia Health is about more than creating a company; it’s about fostering a movement toward accessible, personalized, and comprehensive healthcare for women.  By addressing the unique challenges in women’s health, advocating for diversity and ethical practices, and leveraging technology, Pandia Health stands as a beacon of innovation and empowerment. We hope this episode inspires you to support and advocate for advancements in women’s healthcare.  For more information about Pandia Health and how you can be a part of the change, visit:  https://www.pandiahealth.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating, review, and a follow on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link. Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link.

In this enlightening episode, Ramon Vela sits down with Jason Nyhus, General Manager of Shopware, to unravel the intricacies of the e-commerce industry and the unique position Shopware holds within it.  This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.  Our conversation unveils Shopware's journey from its roots to becoming a beacon for mid-market businesses navigating the e-commerce waters.  We delve into how Shopware’s ethos, architecture, and innovative features set it apart in a competitive landscape and the vision that propels it forward. Key Highlights: * The Mentorship Impact: Jason starts by sharing his professional journey, accentuating the influential role a mentor played in his career development. * Shopware’s Niche Focus: Unlike the broad targeting of platforms like Shopify, Shopware zeroes in on the mid-market segment, offering tailored solutions that address their unique challenges and budget constraints. * Innovative Architecture and Features: Launched in December 2019, Shopware 6 is the culmination of modern architecture and a robust codebase, backed by significant investments from heavyweights like the Carlyle Group and PayPal. Features like the Digital Sales Room, AI co-pilots, and advanced rule and flow builders highlight Shopware’s commitment to innovation. * Global Strategy and English First Approach: Despite its German origins, Shopware prioritizes English for its global operations, emphasizing its intention to cater to a worldwide audience with superior support and a transparent pricing model. * B2B Commerce and Digital Transformation: The episode explores the complexities of B2B commerce, the need for technology to resonate with existing business practices, and how Shopware’s Digital Sales Room is revolutionizing client services in the B2B sphere. * Contrast with Shopify and the Path Ahead: Jason and Ramon discuss Shopify’s recent strategic shifts, highlighting how Shopware’s approach is distinctly poised to meet the needs of businesses looking for specialized platforms with robust B2B functionalities. Whether you’re a merchant navigating the e-commerce domain, a technology enthusiast, or someone intrigued by the evolving digital commerce landscape, this episode offers a comprehensive look into what makes Shopware a formidable player in the market. Tune in to this captivating episode to explore how Shopware is reshaping the future of e-commerce for mid-market merchants and setting new industry standards. For more on Shopware, visit: https://www.shopware.com/en/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating, review, and a follow on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this!   * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link. SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/ Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link.

Welcome to another insightful episode of “The Story of a Brand” podcast. Today, we're talking with Jonathan Briggs, VP of Sales and Solutions at Nimble.ai, about the future of logistics and Nimble’s groundbreaking role in artificial intelligence.    This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and Shopline USA.  Hosted by Ramon Vela, this conversation is not just about technology; it’s a journey through personal growth, industry transformation, and the innovative horizon of logistics management. Main Themes: * Personal Growth and Gratitude: Jonathan Briggs shares his heartfelt transition story to Quiet Logistics, spotlighting the crucial support from Nick Saunders and the importance of believing in one’s vision. A touching reminder of the power of gratitude in the professional journey. * The AI Revolution in Logistics: Nimble.ai is at the forefront, transforming warehouse operations with AI-driven robotic systems. Ramon and Jonathan explore how these innovations make item picking and handling processes more efficient and revolutionary. * Beyond Warehouse Automation: Discover how Nimble.ai’s vision extends to full automation, tackling industry challenges such as labor shortages and enhancing worker satisfaction. Real-world insights from Briggs’ time at UPS highlight the complexities and hurdles in logistics. * Efficiency and Scalability: The episode delves into how Nimble.ai employs closed-access grid systems, real-time reporting, and robotics to boost warehouse efficiency and scalability, especially during peak periods. * Data-Driven Decisions and Sustainability: Learn about the strategic use of data in managing business cycles, consumer behavior analysis, and the company’s commitment to sustainability through recycling, reducing transportation distances, and optimizing packaging. * Regulatory Impacts and Space Optimization: The conversation touches on navigating regulatory landscapes, optimizing warehouse space, and the strategic use of robotics for growth and efficiency. * Innovative Strategies for Future Growth: Briggs discusses future plans around customer acquisition, revenue growth, and leveraging technology to solve industry challenges, including the “warehouse within a warehouse” concept for enhanced brand specificity. * Human Element and Partnership: A vital takeaway is the critical role of human involvement in technology and the essence of being a good business partner. Nimble.ai’s structured planning and execution underscore their approach to logistics.   Join us on “The Story of a Brand” as we uncover the pivotal role of AI in logistics with Jonathan Briggs of Nimble.ai and get inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead in this rapidly evolving industry. Call-to-Action Jonathan invites brands to explore how Nimble.ai can revolutionize their logistics and find a competitive edge in direct-to-consumer and e-commerce operations. For more on Nimble.ai, visit: https://www.nimble.ai/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review and give us a follow on Apple Podcast.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link. Shopline - An All-in-One Commerce Solution for Brands: https://www.us.shopline.com/story Shopline is offering a complimentary three-month trial when you schedule a demo. Seamlessly manage multi-channel sales, create user-friendly websites, and drive conversions with targeted marketing. Ready to streamline operations and accelerate your business? Visit our unique link.

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.  In this inspiring episode, Rose Hamilton dives into the remarkable journey of Sally Mueller, the visionary founder of Womaness, a pioneering brand in the menopause market.  From her early days at Target to the bold leap of leaving in 2010 and stepping into the entrepreneurial world, Sally shares the challenges and triumphs of creating a brand dedicated to women experiencing menopause. Here are the main themes of this episode:  * The Genesis of Womaness: Sally Mueller recounts her career transition from Target to entrepreneurship, driven by a quest to find suitable products for perimenopause symptoms. Discover how Womaness was born out of frustration and a clear vision to fill a significant gap in the market. * A Focus on Menopause: Explore Womaness's core mission, which centers on educating and inspiring women in their late forties and fifties. Learn about the brand’s commitment to addressing the often-ignored needs of this demographic with a comprehensive range of products focused on skin, body, supplements, and sexual wellness, excluding weight gain solutions. * Navigating Marketing Challenges: Hear about the initial hurdles in marketing menopause-related products and how Womaness evolved its messaging towards promoting healthy aging. Find out how this strategic pivot helped them expand their reach to retail giants like Ulta Beauty and Amazon. * Omnichannel Approach: Sally emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer preferences across different shopping platforms and the strategic move to an omnichannel approach. This segment offers valuable insights into adapting marketing and sales strategies to meet the needs of their target demographic. * Talent and Culture: Learn about the critical role of hiring versatile talents who are not only a cultural fit but can also grow with the company. Sally shares her thoughts on the importance of engagement and alignment in building a successful team. * Digital Revolution in Marketing: Delve into the impact of digital transformation on marketing strategies, especially in a crowded market like beauty and skincare. Sally discusses the challenges and opportunities of standing out and educating consumers about new product categories. * The Long Game: Reflecting on the journey, Sally discusses the necessity of a long-term strategy to meet evolving consumer demands. She also shares personal insights on balancing her roles as a mother and a business owner, highlighting the importance of delegation, prioritizing sleep, and building a strong network for business growth. Sally Mueller’s journey with Womaness is a testament to the power of vision, adaptability, and perseverance in the entrepreneurial world.  By addressing the underserved needs of women going through menopause, Womaness not only offers innovative solutions but also leads the way in breaking taboos and fostering a community of education and support. Call to Action:  Tune in to this episode for an inspiring deep dive into Sally Mueller’s entrepreneurial spirit, the innovative approach of Womaness, and the future of women’s wellness.  For more on Womaness, visit: https://womaness.com/ Remember to subscribe and follow The Story of a Brand Show on Apple Podcast and LinkedIn for more conversations with industry leaders and to stay updated on the latest consumer products, brands, trends, retail, and beyond!  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.   SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/ Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link. 

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.  In this illuminating episode of “The Story of a Brand,” Ramon Vela sits down with entrepreneur Afif Ghannoum to delve into his journey of founding and scaling businesses, with a keen focus on his ventures, BIOHM Health and Small Co Capital.  Through Afif’s experiences, we explore the multifaceted challenges of entrepreneurship, particularly around the crucial aspect of raising capital.  Here’s what you can expect from this deep dive: * Entrepreneurial Insight:  Afif shares his journey, shedding light on the hurdles and triumphs of building a business from the ground up. His story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, showcasing resilience and strategic thinking. * Investor Relationships:  The conversation underscores the significance of building trust with investors. Afif emphasizes that beyond a compelling business idea, investors must believe in the entrepreneur themselves. This segment offers valuable advice on cultivating these critical relationships. * Leadership Transitions:  A pivotal moment in any company’s growth is recognizing when to initiate leadership changes. Afif discusses his decision to bring in new leadership at BIOHM to catalyze growth, offering insights into the process of finding the right people for specific roles and the importance of timing in leadership transitions. * Alternative Funding Options:  Delving into the realm of financing, Afif presents a compelling case for considering alternative funding methods, such as revenue-based funding. He outlines the advantages of these options over traditional venture capital, including no personal guarantees and minimized dilution. * Strategic Financing Decisions:  Entrepreneurs face a complex landscape of funding mechanisms. Afif advises carefully weighing the cost of capital, the implications of personal guarantees, and the agility in accessing funds. He also highlights the importance of aligning interests with funding partners and navigating the intricacies of different funding avenues. * Pitfalls and Opportunities:  The discussion critically examines the challenges of working with funding brokers, the risks associated with speculative ventures, and the strategic management of capital. Afif’s insights into prudent capital management are invaluable for entrepreneurs leveraging opportunities effectively. * The Value of Relationships and Advice:  Beyond funding, Afif talks about the significance of building robust business relationships and the role of strategic advice during the funding process. He also touches upon the importance of due diligence and the unique challenges entrepreneurs face in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sector. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or intrigued by the intricacies of building and funding a business, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge, experiences, and strategies from Afif Ghannoum’s entrepreneurial adventure.  Join us as we uncover the lessons, challenges, and successes that define the entrepreneurial spirit. For more on Small Co Capital, visit: https://smallcocapital.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review and give us a follow on Apple Podcast.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.   SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/ Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link.