The Story of a Brand

In today’s episode, host Ramon Vela dives into a fascinating conversation with Heather Wallace, CEO of Curology.  Heather shares her journey, and the incredible work Curology is doing in the skincare industry.  From customized prescription skincare to expanding into hair loss treatments, Curology is transforming how we approach skincare with a blend of telehealth and personalized products.  This episode is packed with insights into the challenges and triumphs of running a rapidly growing company in a competitive market. Heather also discusses the importance of having a strong team, maintaining a clear vision, and the power of mentorship in her career. Her passion for providing effective, clinically proven skincare solutions shines through in our conversation. Whether you're a skincare enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Key Moments: - Heather shares advice from her mentor that shaped her career and leadership style. - The transition of Curology from a DTC brand to an omni-channel approach. - How Curology’s customized treatments provide superior acne, anti-aging, and hair loss results. - Clinical data and personalized care are essential in Curology’s product offerings. - Curology’s community program provides subsidized skincare to those in need. Join us in listening to this episode as we explore Curology's innovative approaches to improving skin health and confidence for people everywhere. You won’t want to miss this enlightening and engaging conversation! For more on Curology, visit: https://curology.com/ 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/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your brand Increase customer lifetime value, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent and omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, Build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above.  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, host Ramon Vela has an insightful conversation with Adena Merabi, Okendo's Partnership Team Lead.  Adena shares Okendo's exciting journey from its early days to becoming a powerhouse in the e-commerce tech space.  We discuss the importance of customer reviews, zero-party data, and how Okendo is helping brands create better customer experiences.    Adena also illuminates the challenges brands face today, the importance of building a solid tech stack, and how partnerships play a crucial role in Okendo's success.    Whether you’re a brand looking to enhance your customer interactions or an entrepreneur interested in the latest e-commerce trends, this episode is packed with valuable insights.   Key Moments: - Adena’s journey to Okendo and the mentorship that shaped her path. - The rapid growth of Okendo and the new products they’ve launched. - Strategies for collecting zero-party data and why it’s crucial in today’s market. - How Okendo’s integrated suite of products helps brands increase customer lifetime value. - The vital role of partnerships in Okendo’s success and the unique aspects of their partner program. Join us in listening to this episode as we explore the dynamic world of Okendo and discover how they are empowering brands to turn customers into super fans.  For more on Okendo, visit: https://okendo.io/ 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 Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 – Increase the lifetime value of customers, Expand into the US market, Create an omnipresent & omnichannel footprint, Optimize customer journeys, or Build brand communities and more.  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 another episode of The Story of a Brand Show!  Today, host Ramon Vela brings you a fantastic conversation with Carly Spatt, Head of Business Development, and Jim Shehigian, Senior Vice President and Credit Department Business Head at AION.  In this episode, we dive into the crucial role of financial support for emerging brands, especially during challenging economic times. Carly and Jim share their insights on how AION helps brands navigate the complex world of financing, providing invaluable advice for founders and entrepreneurs. We discuss everything from the importance of planning for success to the specific financial tools that can help businesses grow without giving up equity too early.  This episode is packed with practical tips and inspirational moments that you won't want to miss. Key Moments: - Jim's remarkable story of early career mentorship and its lasting impact on his professional journey. - Carly’s passion for supporting small entrepreneurs and her journey into the CPG industry. - Insights into the current market trends and the challenges brands face in securing capital. - Detailed explanation of AION’s flexible financing options and how they support brand growth. - Advice on preparing for financial success and the importance of having accurate financial records. Join us as we explore the incredible work Carly and Jim are doing at AION to support brands in their journey toward success.  For more on AION, visit: https://www.aionfi.com/ 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 Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ Compass Rose Ventures 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 of The Story of a Brand, host Ramon Vela interviews Patricio Fuentes, the founder of Gel.  Patricio shares his fascinating journey in the world of consumer packaged goods (CPG) design, and we dive deep into the insights he’s gained from working with domestic and international brands.  This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone interested in the CPG space. From discussing the latest trends at Expo West to exploring the unique challenges and opportunities of entering the U.S. market, this episode offers something for everyone. Key Moments: - Patricio’s reflections on Expo West and the exciting trends he observed in the CPG industry. - The critical importance of understanding your audience and maintaining authenticity in branding. - Insights into the challenges and strategies for international brands entering the U.S. market. - Patricio’s views on the future of CPG and the promising trends he’s looking forward to. - The role of gratitude and family support in Patricio’s entrepreneurial journey. Join us in listening to this episode as we explore Patricio Fuentes' incredible journey and his invaluable insights into the CPG world. You won’t want to miss this engaging and informative conversation! For more on Gel, visit: https://gelcomm.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 episode of The Story of a Brand, Ramon Vela interviews Lisa Goodman, Founder of GoodSkin Clinics.  Lisa shares her unique journey as a “reluctant entrepreneur” who, despite initial hesitations, has built a successful business grounded in a European methodology for skin treatments.  Lisa’s passion for patient care and holistic medical approach to aesthetics shine through in our conversation. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of running a business, the importance of mental wellness, and the profound impact of a supportive team.  She also discusses her philosophy on personalized treatments, the significance of proper diagnosis, and how GoodSkin Clinics stands out in the crowded aesthetic industry. Key Moments: - Lisa describes her transition from a part-time endeavor to building GoodSkin Clinics and the role her team played in this growth. - The eye-opening experience Lisa had in Europe that transformed her approach to aesthetic treatments. - The critical importance of diagnosis in providing long-term, effective skincare solutions. - Insights into how GoodSkin Clinics integrates mental wellness into their patient care. - The challenges of fighting against the marketing of quick fixes and educating clients on holistic, long-term treatments. Join us in listening to this episode as we explore Lisa Goodman's remarkable journey and discover how GoodSkin Clinics is redefining beauty with a touch of European elegance and medical expertise. You won’t want to miss this inspiring and informative conversation! For more on GoodSkin Clinics, visit: https://www.goodskinclinics.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 episode, Ramon Vela interviews Jeff Avila, Co-founder of Reap and Glow, about innovative skincare.    Jeff reminisces about his mentorship under the legendary Jay Patrick at Alacer. Hear firsthand how Jay’s pioneering product development strategies shaped Jeff’s impressive 25-year career in the industry.   Jeff passionately shares his commitment to working directly with ethical growers, particularly in Colombia and Costa Rica, harnessing the incredible antioxidant properties of coffee fruit for skin care.   We also delve into the complexities and rewards of market innovation, as Jeff emphasizes the importance of unique products backed by rigorous clinical data. Learn about their groundbreaking collaborations for encapsulated hyaluronic acid and safety testing, ensuring every product delivers on its promise.   Explore Reap and Glow’s fantastic range of affordable and effective products, including a coffee-fruit antioxidant cleanser, a Turmeric peptide-firming and smoothing serum with Ayurvedic complex ingredients, and a soon-to-be-released deep hydrating rejuvenation cream.   From Jeff’s transition from science to entrepreneurship to overcoming sales challenges, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom.    Tune in now and embark on a journey of scientific rigor, sustainable beauty, and entrepreneurial spirit with Jeff Avila.   For more on Reap & Glow, visit: https://reapandglow.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 episode, Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, interviews Wendy Wen, Founder and CEO of Antelope, and explores the strategic approach behind the company's success in acquiring and scaling natural pet CPG brands. Wendy Wen shares valuable insights on building a resilient and sustainable business in the competitive pet market. Key Points Covered: * Strategic Acquisitions and Quality Control: * Navigating Market Challenges: * Traits of Successful Founders: * Sustainable Growth Strategies: * Organizational Growth and Remote Work: * Personal Well-Being and Self-Care: * Investment and Financial Strategies: * Entrepreneurial Insights: * Happiness and Personal Growth: Join us as we unpack the various elements that contributed to Antelope's success and gain insights into building a brand that resonates with consumers while fostering sustainable and innovative practices in the Pet industry. For more on Antelope, visit:  https://www.antelopepets.com/  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 episode, Ramon Vela interviews Lemon Perfect's founder and CEO Yanni Hufnagel.   He takes us through the evolution of his innovative beverage company, from the early days of securing investor support to achieving the remarkable milestone of selling nearly 100 million bottles!   He candidly discusses the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, shedding light on the vital role of persistence, competitive stamina, and strategic decision-making in driving growth.    Yanni also celebrates the unwavering dedication of his amazing team, whose efforts have been instrumental in expanding Lemon Perfect in a fiercely competitive market.    Yanni also opens up about his leadership journey, sharing moments of doubt and triumph, and emphasizes the health benefits of Lemon Perfect – a zero-sugar, calorie-free, sodium-free beverage enriched with organic lemons.    Discover how Lemon Perfect is changing the game by offering a delicious, healthy alternative to sugary drinks, and explore the variety of flavors now available at national retailers.    For more on Lemon Perfect, visit: https://lemonperfect.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 episode, Ramon Vela dives into the inspiring entrepreneurial journey of Aaron Ambuske, Founder of Hest.   Eight years ago, Aaron set out to revolutionize outdoor sleeping solutions by creating products that bring the comfort of home mattresses to the great outdoors.   Supported by family, investors, mentors, and friends, Aaron navigated startup challenges to develop innovative products.   He started by targeting the premium car camper market, which capitalized on trends like increased outdoor activities and the digital nomad lifestyle, solidifying its market position.   Aaron placed a strong emphasis on design and sustainability, ensuring user satisfaction and eco-friendly practices through careful material choices, product longevity, and sustainable packaging.    The company's product range includes foamy camp pads, versatile travel pillows, and innovative comforters with unique features like a foot box to prevent sliding. Engaging with the community and promoting the mental health benefits of nature, Hest enhances customer experiences by focusing on sleep quality, temperature regulation, practicality, and exceptional customer service.   Join us as Aaron Embuskey takes us through Hest’s journey of creating high-quality outdoor products that ensure a comfortable and restful night’s sleep, no matter where your adventures take you.   For more on Hest, visit: https://hest.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 episode of The Story of a Brand, host Ramon Vela interviews Tate Stock, Chirp's innovative founder and CEO.   Tate shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from creating the first Chirp wheel out of sewer pipes to overcoming early business challenges with family support.   They discuss how Chirp transitioned from a yoga prop to a leading back pain relief product, resulting in explosive growth and a successful appearance on Shark Tank.   Tate’s story highlights the importance of gratitude, perseverance, and innovative thinking in building a successful brand.   Tune in to learn about the evolution of Chirp and its impact on the wellness industry.   For more on Chirp, visit: https://gochirp.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.