The Story of a Brand

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.    In this episode of “The Story of a Brand,” Ramon Vela delves into the compelling story of Jing Gao, Founder, CEO, and visionary behind the modern Chinese food brand Fly by Jing.  From the brand’s humble beginnings to its place on the shelves of major retailers, Gao’s journey is a narrative of personal and professional evolution, marked by leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to authenticity. Join us as we explore: Personal Growth and Leadership Jing shares insights on personal growth, self-acceptance, and the evolving role of a CEO in empowering and supporting the team, emphasizing the importance of inner fulfillment and team alignment. Managing Team Dynamics The discussion focuses on the challenges of managing a growing team. It explores the shift in dynamics and structures as a company expands and highlights the importance of adaptability and cultural alignment. Employee Growth and Company Culture The conversation delves into the significance of supporting employee self-actualization and holistic growth, emphasizing the role of a company in fostering individual development and creating a positive, inclusive culture. Unveiling the Purpose Statement Discover the purpose behind the brand’s creation and how it evolved over the years, focusing on evolving culture through taste and expanding consciousness. Inspiration and Inception of the Company Explore the founder’s journey from China to the US, identifying gaps in the natural food market and misconceptions surrounding Chinese cuisine, which led to the company's launch. Validation and Growth Learn how a successful Kickstarter campaign validated the demand for the brand’s products, leading to scaling up operations and a significant shift in the ethnic food landscape. Measuring Success and Impact Understand the metrics and markers of success for the brand, including reshaping the grocery store's ethnic aisle, inspiring other founders, and gaining recognition from retailers and investors. Future Vision and Expansion Explore the brand’s aspirations to become a household name and a ubiquitous condiment, aiming to evolve culture through taste further and broaden its reach beyond Asian cuisine. Exploring Culinary Diversity and Flavor Sensations Delve into the importance of diverse flavors and culinary experiences, highlighting the role of sauces in enhancing plant-based meals and exploring the uniqueness of different ethnic cuisines. Product Introduction and Recommendations Introducing the brand’s flagship products and offering recommendations for first-time customers, emphasizing flavor balance, versatility, and the sensory experience the products provide. Join us as Jing Gao shares her inspirational journey with Fly by Jing, offering valuable lessons on leadership, innovation, and the power of staying true to one’s mission.  Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a food enthusiast, or someone interested in personal and professional development dynamics, this episode promises to be an enlightening exploration of what it takes to build a brand that transcends boundaries and challenges conventions. For more on Fly By Jing, visit: https://flybyjing.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 captivating episode of “The Story of a Brand,” Ramon Vela interviews Nate Taylor, CEO and Founder of Keyspan, about the transformative potential of personalized healthcare.  It’s an episode packed with insights, ideas, and inspiration for anyone looking to navigate the changing landscapes of health and wellness in the 21st century. Join us as we explore: * Discover Nate’s personal health journey, which led him to question traditional healthcare practices. He now focuses on prevention and addressing underlying health issues rather than relying on quick fixes or medications. * Learn about Keyspan’s mission to provide personalized health coaching, lifestyle changes, and AI-powered solutions to help individuals optimize their health span, focusing on prevention and behavior change. * Delve into the concept of health span versus life span, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the quality of life by focusing on health and well-being rather than just increasing the number of years lived. * Nate Taylor discusses the historical exclusion of women in medical studies and the importance of considering female biology in healthcare. He also highlights Keyspan’s approach to testing additional biomarkers for women. * Nate Taylor shares his perspective on medications like Ozempic and emphasizes the importance of addressing underlying behavioral reasons for health issues instead of relying on temporary fixes. He also explores the significance of behavior change, diet, and exercise in long-lasting health outcomes. * The discussion shifts towards the concept of Medicine 3.0 and the role of Keyspan in preventive healthcare. They delve into the partnership between Keyspan and healthcare providers in managing wellness and preventing health issues. * Nate Taylor shares his personal journey with Keyspan, from signing up for the program to undergoing blood tests and the subsequent steps in the process. Nate provides insights into the user experience and expectations of engaging with Keyspan’s platform. * The importance of community support in health and wellness is highlighted, emphasizing the role of Keyspan’s community in fostering connections among members. He explores the benefits of sharing experiences, struggles, and victories within a supportive community. * Nate Taylor encourages listeners to explore Keyspan's offerings and take proactive steps toward their health and well-being. He emphasizes the significance of utilizing data, personalized advice, and community support for holistic health management. Join us on this enlightening journey with Nate Taylor as we explore the intersection of career innovation, AI’s role in our professional lives, and the transformative power of proactive healthcare. For more on Keyspan, visit: https://getkeyspan.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 and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.  In this episode, Ramon Vela dives into the burgeoning e-commerce strategy of “try before you buy” with Benjamin Davis, Founder, and CEO of TryNow. TryNow reshapes online shopping and drives brand loyalty and sales.  We unpack the significance of this approach, its impact on consumer confidence, and how it’s becoming an antidote to the challenges posed by inflation and changing consumer behaviors.  Join us as we explore: * We start with Benjamin Davis, the founder and CEO of Try Now, sharing his gratitude towards an investor, Ryan, who saw potential in the idea and its execution. It tells how visionary support can bring transformative business models to life. * Delving into the evolving consumer expectation to “try before you buy,” a shift from traditional online shopping habits. We discuss how this trend fosters a new level of trust and confidence among online shoppers, particularly in an era of price sensitivity and the pursuit of value. * Discover how offering trials before purchase can significantly uplift brand conversion rates. By targeting hesitant shoppers and increasing consumer confidence, brands can drive incremental sales without immediately resorting to discounts. * From a wine company that lets customers sample at home to a boot company thriving on a direct-to-consumer model, we highlight varied examples of how this strategy is successfully implemented across different sectors. * Learn how the “try before you buy” approach is helping businesses cope with inflationary pressures by focusing on customer-centricity, maintaining product quality, and efficiently managing return rates. * For companies, especially those on Shopify, integrating this model into their returns flow can lead to operational efficiency. We discuss the importance of this integration and how it benefits retailers and consumers. * We explore how this trend is particularly impactful in the apparel industry, where fit and personal preference play significant roles in purchase decisions. TryNow facilitates trial experiences, proving that adopting such strategies can improve the retail experience and profitability. Tune in to this conversation to understand how this innovative approach revolutionizes our online shopping experiences. For more on TryNow, visit: https://www.trynow.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.  Join Ramon Vela for this special episode featuring Walter Faulstroh, CEO and Co-Founder of HUM Nutrition.  HUM’s mission is to help everyone look and feel their absolute best. Combining the exact, pure, and potent nutrients for visible, life-changing results, each unique formula starts with beauty from within. Each formula is made with clinically proven non-GMO, gluten-free, and sustainably sourced ingredients for great results. Key Points Discussed: * We discuss the powerful message from Walter Faulstroh, CEO of HUM Nutrition, about the intersection of gratitude, personal health challenges, and innovative wellness solutions. * Hum Nutrition's core focus is enhancing overall well-being by addressing key areas such as skin, digestive, mental health, and well-being for women’s health. * The company offers personalized services like online consultations and quizzes tailored to individual health needs. * Faulstroh sheds light on the often-overlooked psychological effects of acne, exacerbated during the pandemic. * Emphasis on using clean ingredients in products and sustainable practices in packaging to promote consumer and environmental health. * Discuss how HUM Nutrition navigated supply chain disruptions and factory shutdowns by being agile and collaborative. * The platform’s tailored approach to product selection helps those with specific health conditions or those managing medication interactions. * A commitment to affordable pricing, proper ingredient use for glucose management, and ensuring product quality through extensive testing and verification. * Walter Faulstroh’s guarantee on the efficacy and safety of HUM Nutrition’s products. * Faulstroh advocates for managing stress through kindness to oneself and the importance of maintaining overall health. Call to Action: Visit the HUM Nutrition website for additional resources, take a health quiz, and have the opportunity to consult a nutrition expert. For more on HUM Nutrition, visit: https://www.humnutrition.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 episode, our host, Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose, interviews Kathryn Bricken, CEO and Founder of Doughlicious - The London Dough Co.  Doughlicious - The London Dough Co. is an award-winning dough company that uses all-natural ingredients, is gluten-free and offers many dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. All our products are produced in the UK using the finest ingredients, including free-range eggs, organic cane, and coconut sugars, and no artificial additives or preservatives. Below are the key takeaways from our conversation: * Her personal story and how her pregnancy momentarily paused her culinary endeavors and how she reignited her passion for baking. * How Doughlicous blossomed into a full-fledged business. * Growing from a home kitchen operation to requiring a larger manufacturing space, and how they diversified their product line with innovative offerings like cookie dough and gelato bites. *  Kathryn’s strategic pivot from direct-to-consumer sales to focusing on retail distribution catapulted the brand toward international fame. * How she addresses the challenges and opportunities of marketing with social media and influencers in today’s digital landscape. * You’ll also hear about the importance of personal involvement and authenticity in representing a brand. * And why we should celebrate the notion that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, * And so much more!!! Join Rose Hamilton for this inspiring conversation with Kathryn Bricken, which is a testament to the power of following your dreams and the sweet taste of success that comes with dedication and hard work.  Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a visionary who turned her passion for dessert into a thriving business.   For more on Doughlicious - The London Dough Co., visit: https://doughlicious.co.uk/ 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 review. Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ The Story of a Brand and Compass Rose offer “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 and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.  Today, we have a special episode featuring Uri Minkoff, the co-founder of BodyHealth, who shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights into the health and nutrition sector. With a focus on quality and purity of ingredients, BodyHealth products are crafted to help you achieve and maintain optimum health and vitality. Specifically, the BodyHealth objective is to educate others on improving and maintaining their bodies' condition and provide them with the products needed to do that. Touted by world-class performance athletes and patients in some of the most desperate conditions, Dr. Minkoff's formulations continue to spread for one simple reason: They Work. Key Points Discussed: * His decision to pursue entrepreneurship over further education  * Uri discusses the significant impact his father had on his career path * The conversation highlights how parental support can be instrumental in recognizing and nurturing  children’s talents * Minkoff stresses the importance of passion and authenticity in achieving success * He underscores the need for entrepreneurs to understand finance to make informed decisions that align with their passions * Uri’s strategies for maintaining a connection with the business’s original vision * He delves into the importance of product offering, timing, customer base, and a strong value proposition * How Minkoff led BodyHealth to expand its reach beyond its initial offerings * The refocus on health and nutrition during the COVID-19 pandemic and the growth of the product line * The commitment to “life-changing nutrition” and creating products tailored to specific patient needs * The strategy behind producing content that educates and products that address particular health concerns * Minkoff emphasizes the importance of building a community and the value of peer-to-peer connections * He advocates for sharing personal health experiences and the impact it can have on others * The push for personalized diets and exercise routines * Finding health experts or programs that resonate on an individual level * Uri teases potential changes in the market due to new drug developments affecting the snack food industry * The expected move towards healthier brands and what that could mean for entrepreneurs in the health sector We hope Uri’s story motivates you to pursue your passions with authenticity and a clear vision. For more on BodyHealth, visit: https://bodyhealth.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 and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands. In this episode, Ramon Vela delves into the fascinating world of entrepreneurship and business revitalization with Cara Barde, the CEO and Owner of Crow Canyon Home.  Join us as we unpack Cara’s inspiring journey and explore the strategies that transformed a struggling company into a thriving enterprise. Crow Canyon Home offers the largest selection of enamelware items, colors, and patterns in the U.S. – timeless good looks and enduring quality, which are true classics for collectors and homemakers alike. Key Points Discussed: * Cara Barde’s background and the pivotal role her father played in shaping her business acumen. * How Cara transitioned from the dotcom industry to purchasing an existing business, recognizing the potential in acquiring a company from retiring owners. * The critical importance of seller financing and conducting a comprehensive due diligence process before making an acquisition. * Cara’s love for the creative aspects of the housewares industry and her vision for merging two businesses into one. * Strategies Cara employed to modernize the business image, upgrade technology, and improve operations. * Insights into Cara’s approach to due diligence and negotiation, with a focus on financial analysis, customer diversity, and the value of strong partner relationships. * How Cara tapped into the revitalization of enamelware, securing significant orders from major retailers and collaborating with iconic brands. * A glimpse into Crow Canyon Home’s success as a remote company, including an executive living van life in Mexico. * The strong brand and product range of Crow Canyon Home, and a sneak peek at upcoming product launches and sales strategies. * How she shifted marketing tactics from traditional wholesale and trade shows to modern approaches like social media and influencer partnerships. * Leveraging user-generated content to appeal to different demographics, from Gen X to millennials. * Cara Barde reiterates the enduring charm of enamelware, its sustainable aspects, and the balance of staying on-trend while offering timeless styles. * Crow Canyon Home’s products, such as its non-breakable dinnerware and tumblers, are practical and durable, encouraging repeat purchases. * How enamelware stands the test of time against other materials like glass and porcelain, maintaining its relevance in today’s market. And more…  Don’t miss this episode, filled with invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike.  Cara Barde’s journey is not just about the resurgence of a product line but also a testament to the power of strategic thinking, creative marketing, and the relentless pursuit of growth and innovation. For more on Crow Canyon Home, visit: https://crowcanyonhome.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/ The Story of a Brand and 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  and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands In this episode, Ramon Vela interviews Brad Charron, CEO of ALOHA.  ALOHA is an employee-owned and operated company committed to making the healthiest, best-tasting plant-based protein products on the planet.  ALOHA’s product portfolio includes protein bars, drinks, and powders that taste as good as they are for you, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for nutrition.  USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Soy-Free, Dairy-Free, Stevia & Sugar Alcohol-Free; all ALOHA products are sustainably sourced and thoughtfully packaged with deep respect for people and the environment. Below are the key takeaways from our conversation: * Brad shares his journey to joining ALOHA and the importance of gratitude in his leadership style.  * Discover how Brad turned struggling companies into success stories by concentrating on their core competencies. * Learn how Hawaiian culture inspires Brad’s business ethos, focusing on humility and community involvement. * Get inspired by ALOHA’s dedication to giving back and Brad’s personal commitment to nonprofit work. * Brad discusses ALOHA’s efforts to ensure its business is sustainable and accountable, with an array of certifications, such as B Corp, USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Soy-Free, Dairy-Free, Stevia & Sugar Alcohol-Free, backing its claims. * Hear about how ALOHA aligns its products with consumer needs, emphasizing the importance of organic, made-in-the-USA, and climate-neutral products, all while delivering nutritional value. * Explore ALOHA’s straightforward strategy to convey the true value of their health and wellness products to consumers. Join Ramon Vela for this inspiring conversation where we dive deep with Brad Sharon, the CEO of Aloha, a brand that’s not just making waves with its health-focused products but also setting a benchmark for sustainability and corporate responsibility.  Don’t forget to visit aloha.com to explore their range of healthy, sustainable products and learn more about their commitment to positive change. For more on ALOHA, visit: https://aloha.com/ Remember to follow The Story of a Brand Show for more conversations with industry leaders and to stay updated on the latest consumer products, brands, trends, retail, and beyond! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ The Story of a Brand and 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  and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands In this episode, Ramon Vela interviews Ayeshah Abuelhiga, Founder & CEO of Mason Dixie Foods. Mason Dixie was created to provide fresh, fast, and affordable Southern comfort food to the masses.  Their original solution was perfecting the biscuit – making them with hormone-free dairy, real butter, and no preservatives. Through grassroots support, smart growth and investment, and growing demand, you can now find them nationwide. Below are the key takeaways from our conversation: * Ayeshah shares the genesis of Mason Dixie Foods and how a successful Kickstarter campaign for biscuits tapped into people's emotional connection with food and created a groundswell of demand. * The role of a mentor in Ayeshah’s journey, who saw her potential and helped to pave the way for her success. * Ayeshah opens up about the challenges of her upbringing and how they shaped her drive and approach to business. * Learn how Ayeshah leveraged community support and social media to amplify her business’s reach and create a loyal customer base. * Ayeshah discusses the challenges of resource scarcity, the importance of being flexible, and the perseverance required to scale a business and secure partnerships with major retailers. * She highlights how Mason Dixie Foods isn’t just a business but a positive force in the community, creating partnerships that extend its reach and ethos. * How Ayeshah’s approach goes beyond selling food; it’s about crafting an experience that resonates with the soul. Join Ramon Vela for this inspiring conversation with Ayeshah Abuelhiga, where we learn that the right mix of passion, resilience, and community support can lead to delicious success.  Don’t forget to check out Mason Dixie Foods and experience the comfort of their clean-label food firsthand! For more on Mason Dixie Foods, visit: https://masondixiefoods.com/ Remember to follow The Story of a Brand Show for more conversations with industry leaders and to stay updated on the latest consumer products, brands, trends, retail, and beyond! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/ The Story of a Brand and 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 and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands In this episode, we interview Andy Hunter, Founder and CEO of BookShop.org. Bookshop is an online bookstore that aims to financially support local, independent bookstores. Bookshop is also a BCorp - a corporation dedicated to the public good. By design, they give away over 80% of their profit margin to stores and affiliates of stores: publications, authors, and others who make up the thriving, inspirational culture around books! Below are the key takeaways from our conversation: * Andy’s passion for helping local bookstores thrive in the digital age through Bookshop.org. * He discussed how he struggled to secure investment and the need for champions like Morgan Entrekin who believe in an entrepreneur’s vision and abilities. * The importance of merging different disciplines and skills to create unique and impactful work in the business world. * A discussion on how artificial intelligence might reshape the job market and the ever-growing importance of critical thinking skills. * The struggle for small businesses to survive in the shadow of giants like Amazon and the detrimental effects of anti-competitive practices. * Overcoming the challenges of limited budgets and the ever-changing social media landscape to reach customers effectively. * How Bookshop.org’s model of connecting customers to local bookstores and handling logistics has led to profitability that supports the community. * The platform’s expansion through organic growth, media attention, and the power of storytelling. * The call for conscious consumerism that prioritizes community and local businesses. * Supporting local businesses as an act of community-building and resistance against market monopolies is important. * Encouragement for listeners to choose platforms that align with their values, like Bookshop.org. Call to Action: * Visit Bookshop.org to support your local bookstore. * Share the episode with friends and family to spread awareness about the importance of local bookstores. * Join the conversation on social media using #SupportLocalBookstores. Join Ramon Vela and Andy Hunter as we break down the inside story of Tonal on The Story of a Brand. For more on BookShop.org, visit: https://bookshop.org/ Remember to follow the show for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of business and wellness. * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ Compass Rose works with founders and executive teams to help identify issues and opportunities and work with you to operationalize the brand so you can grow and scale profitably, raise funds, innovate, and more. Visit for more information.  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.