

The Story of a Brand Show
CommerceFocused Media, Inc.
Welcome to The Story Of A Brand Show. Hear the unique entrepreneurial journeys of 1000+ Consumer Brand founders. We tap into the doubts, failures, wins and inspirations that come with building Consumer Brand startups in extremely competitive times. Whether you own a brand or work for one, you will learn from our guests as they share the building blocks of their brand's evolution. Who knows, you may even discover a few new products that become faves.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 14, 2024 • 1h 4min
Wildfang - However YOU Want to Show Up in the World, They Got YOU
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.

May 8, 2024 • 54min
Pandia Health - Revolutionizing Women's Health Through Innovation
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.

May 7, 2024 • 1h 2min
Shopware - Empowering Mid-Market Merchants
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.

May 6, 2024 • 1h 2min
Nimble.ai - Fully Autonomous 3PL Fulfillment with Robotics and AI
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.

May 1, 2024 • 48min
Womaness - Keeping Women Unstoppable
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.

Apr 25, 2024 • 54min
Small Co Capital - Building & Funding a Brand with Afif Ghannoum
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.

Apr 24, 2024 • 1h 4min
NOA Home - The Art of Bootstrapping
This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands. In this inspiring episode, Ramon Vela explores the entrepreneurial journey of Jeremy Kopeck, Co-Founder and CEO of NOA Home. Kopeck shares his story of growing a $50,000 investment into a remarkable $23 million revenue over four years. It's a tale that underscores the essence of entrepreneurship, including the critical importance of trust, risk-taking, and the undeniable power of human connections. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of building a brand that's as much about family values as it is about offering quality, artisanal products to the market. Main Themes: * The Foundation of Trust and Integrity: Learn how a partnership based on shared vision and integrity was pivotal during a typhoon-induced crisis, setting a precedent for the company's ethos. * Personal Commitment and Brand Ethos: Discover the significance behind the name NOA Home and how it reflects the company's dedication to comfort, quality, and family. * Overcoming Challenges through Resilience: Jeremy discusses facing and overcoming challenges, including supply chain disruptions and the pandemic, focusing on resilience and maintaining core values. * The Art of Bootstrapping: A Deep Dive into How NOA Home Achieved Significant Growth without External Investors, highlighting the effectiveness of financial management and market understanding. * A Customer-Centric Approach: This paper provides insights into the importance of direct feedback and exceptional customer service and their role in refining NOA Home's offerings. * Future Plans and Expansion: Exciting details on expanding the product line with American-made items and growing the ambassador program to reinforce the brand's commitment to quality and community. * A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Jeremy shares words of encouragement for future entrepreneurs, emphasizing perseverance, a customer-centric approach, and the importance of holding onto one's values. About NOA Home: NOA Home has emerged as a leading name in the B2C industry, known for its artisanal products, storytelling approach to customer engagement, and unwavering commitment to quality and community. From overcoming natural disasters to navigating the complexities of market dynamics, NOA Home's journey is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and an unrelenting focus on what truly matters. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone who appreciates a success story, this episode offers valuable insights into the realities of starting and scaling a business today. Tune in to learn, be inspired, and find the spark you need to start your journey of resilience and success. For more on NOA Home, visit: https://www.noahome.com/us/ 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.

Apr 18, 2024 • 58min
Digital Stronghold - Where Men's Interest Brands Go to Thrive
This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands. Welcome to another enlightening episode in which Ramon Vela dives deep into the journey of Mike Mahar, a visionary entrepreneur and partner at Digital Stronghold. The Digital Stronghold is a multi-brand platform supporting leading digitally native men's apparel, accessories, and grooming brands in accelerating their growth. Mike shares his fascinating career trajectory, valuable insights from his tenure with Taylor Stitch, and current endeavors shaping the future of men's interest brands. Below are the key highlights of our conversation: * Gratitude and Reflecting on a Mentor's Impact Mike reflects on the impact of a high school teacher who influenced his passion for business and entrepreneurship. * Taylor Stitch Update Post-Pandemic Update on Taylor Stitch post-pandemic, focusing on product development, customer needs, and business strategies. * Introduction to Digital Stronghold Introduction to Digital Stronghold, a holding company for men's interest brands, and its vision to acquire profitable brands. * Consumer-Centric Approach of Digital Stronghold Discuss how Digital Stronghold aims to enhance the consumer experience by supporting founders and improving operational efficiency. * Evaluating Apparel Brands for Investment Learn about the key criteria Digital Stronghold uses to evaluate apparel brands for investment, including financial benchmarks and customer retention rates. * Embracing Niche Brands Discover the value Digital Stronghold places on niche brands that focus on building a dedicated customer base, like the success story of Boston Scally in their portfolio. * Supporting Acquired Brands Explore the comprehensive support Digital Stronghold provides to acquired brands post-deal, covering areas such as finance, digital optimization, marketing, and logistics. * Inclusivity in Brand Acquisition Understand Digital Stronghold's openness to brands with diverse product lines, including gender-neutral options, and how they assess brands for investment opportunities. * Navigating Challenges in Brand Acquisition Delve into the challenges Digital Stronghold faces in finding and acquiring brands, including the impact of market dynamics and the importance of knowing your customer for successful paid media strategies. Call-to-Action: Mike encourages interested brand founders in the men's interest space to connect for potential investment opportunities. For more on Digital Stronghold, visit: https://thedigitalstronghold.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.

Apr 18, 2024 • 1h 3min
Troop - Superfood Mushrooms in a Gummy!
This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands. In this inspiring episode, Ramon Vela dives into the fascinating world of entrepreneurship with a unique twist – mushrooms. His guests, Co-Founders Stephanie Moyal and Jake Mellman, are the innovative minds behind Troop, a company reshaping how we view and consume mushrooms. Their story is not just about mushrooms; it's a tale of resilience, innovation, and the power of a robust support system. Main Themes: * The Birth of Troop During Challenging Times: Discover how Stephanie and Jake embarked on their entrepreneurial journey amidst the COVID-19 lockdown, transforming their mushroom passion into a thriving business. * Gratitude and Support: The founders emphasize the crucial roles of gratitude, family support, and self-belief in navigating the ups and downs of starting a new venture. They share anecdotes highlighting how these elements were instrumental in their success. * Demystifying Mushrooms: Stephanie and Jake discuss their mission to make mushrooms more appealing and accessible through innovative products like gummies. They delve into the challenges and rewards of educating the public about mushrooms' health benefits and potential, aiming to destigmatize this versatile ingredient. * Sustainability and Quality: Learn about Troop's commitment to sustainability, from choosing eco-friendly packaging to sourcing premium mushrooms. The founders detail the meticulous research and development process that goes into creating their unique mushroom gummies, including custom molds that embody the essence of their brand. * Education and Networking: The importance of continuous learning, networking, and strategic planning for budding entrepreneurs. Stephanie and Jake share valuable insights into how they navigated the complexities of product development and market introduction with no prior experience in the mushroom industry. * Health Benefits and Applications: The conversation also covers mushrooms' potential health benefits, from digestive support to mental health and immune system enhancement. The founders discuss their approach to product development, focusing on vegan-friendly, potent extracts made through a triple extraction method. * Looking Forward: As Troop grows, Stephanie and Jake reflect on their journey and plans. They highlight the importance of quality, consumer education, and expanding their product line to include offerings with immune-boosting and stress-reducing properties. Closing Thoughts: Stephanie and Jake's journey with Troop is a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and the impact of reimagining traditional ingredients for modern consumers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, health, and wellness or looking for inspiration. Remember to check out Troop's mushroom gummies and other products by visiting Trytroop.com and learning more about how they're changing the health and wellness industry game. For more on Troop, visit: https://trytroop.com/ For our listeners, a 20% discount for Troop, use promo code: Ramon20 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.

Apr 16, 2024 • 43min
Franne Golde - Franne Golde's Journey from Songwriting to Fashion Innovation
This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL - The Influencer OS for Brands. Welcome to today's episode, in which Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, discusses the fascinating journey of Franne Golde, Founder and CEO of Franne Golde and a former songwriter who danced her way into the fashion industry and established a thriving specialty retail brand. Franne Golde is a women's apparel brand that created the "Magic" Pants and other figure-flattering basics for the office or wherever life takes you. She is a former songwriter who turned her love for fashion into a thriving business. In this interview, we explored: - How her roots in music influenced her entrepreneurial path - The accidental start of her fashion journey with a school boutique fundraiser and how it blossomed into a full-fledged clothing line. - Discovering a unique fabric led to creating a game-changing pair of pants. - Overcoming manufacturing hurdles with the help of personal connections. - Franne's belief in commitment and how the universe conspires to assist dedicated people. - Her strategy in using online marketing, personal outreach, and referrals over traditional advertising. - A serendipitous endorsement from Oprah Winfrey's stylist, propelling her "magic pants" into the limelight. - Addressing the challenges of balancing marketing expenses and adapting to market changes. - The importance of in-person interactions and maintaining a personal touch within a converted recording studio space. - And so much more... For entrepreneurs and dreamers alike, Franne's journey offers inspiration and practical insights into navigating the business world and successfully shifting from one career to another. Additional Information: For listeners who want to experience the comfort and style of Franne's "magic pants" for themselves or to connect with her brand, visit: https://www.frannegolde.com/ Listens get 20% off their next full-priced order. Use promo code STORY. 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.


