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Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different™

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Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 22min

375 Rambling Redefined: Category Design and the Janus Motorcycle Revolution with Richard Worsham & Grant Longenbaugh

On this episode of Chistopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we talk with Richard Worsham and Grant Longenbaugh, the President and CMO of Janus Motorcycles. They discuss Janus's unique approach to motorcycle design, emphasizing craftsmanship, simplicity, and a distinctive riding experience called "rambling." Richard and Grant share their journey from customizing mopeds to creating a new category of lightweight, custom motorcycles. They highlight their rejection of the industry's focus on speed and technology, instead prioritizing the joy of riding and community engagement. The episode underscores Janus's success in redefining the motorcycle experience through authenticity and innovative category design. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. What is Janus Motorcycles? Janus Motorcycles stands out in an industry that typically prioritizes speed and technological advancements. While the mainstream motorcycle market grows at a modest rate of about 2% annually, Janus has achieved remarkable growth, boasting a 50% increase over the previous year. This success is attributed to their commitment to craftsmanship and a unique riding experience that emphasizes a slower, more meditative journey. The early days of Janus saw Richard and his co-founder, Devin, customizing mopeds and eventually deciding to create a motorcycle that reflected their vision. They started with a 50cc model, drawing inspiration from their experiences with mopeds. Community and collaboration played a crucial role in their journey, as they relied on local expertise and craftsmanship to bring their vision to life. Richard Worsham & Grant Longenbaugh and how they got into Janus Motorcycles Richard Worsham's journey began on the East Coast and eventually led him to Goshen, Indiana, where Janus is based. His time at Notre Dame and the region's rich history in craftsmanship, particularly in the RV industry, laid the foundation for Janus. Leveraging local manufacturing resources, including partnerships with Amish craftsmen known for their exceptional quality, Richard's passion for motorcycles was ignited during his college years. This passion ultimately led to the creation of Janus Motorcycles. Grant Longenbaugh, with a background in marketing and creative work, became involved with Janus out of passion and curiosity. He and his colleague, Jordan, helped launch the 250cc line through a successful Kickstarter campaign. This campaign not only provided the necessary funding for EPA testing but also marked a turning point for Janus, allowing them to scale their operations. On Rejecting Industry Norms Janus Motorcycles takes a starkly different approach compared to the broader motorcycle industry, which has been focused on technological advancements and performance enhancements for decades. Richard and Grant articulate their philosophy of rejecting this "features push" mentality, instead prioritizing beauty, simplicity, and a genuine connection to the riding experience. Richard draws parallels between motorcycles and classic cars, noting that vehicles like the old MGs provide a raw, engaging experience that modern vehicles often lack. He argues that while technological advancements like anti-lock brakes and rider aids are beneficial, they can also dilute the authentic experience of riding. The focus should be on the joy of the ride itself, rather than on features that might be more appropriate for household appliances. To hear more from Richard Worsham & Grant Longenbaugh on their experience with Janus Motorcycles and the category of motorcycles and riding experience, download and listen to this episode. Bio Richard Worsham and Grant Longenbaugh are the President and CMO of Janus Motorcycles, a motorcycle manufacturer company based in Goshen, Indiana. Richard Worsham, an artist and engineer with a passion for vint...
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Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 7min

374 From Vodka to Bongs: John Spagnola on Building Legendary Brands & Creating New Categories

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a conversation with John Spagnola, CEO of Ublendit, about innovation and category creation in the spirits industry. John shares his journey, emphasizing the strategic advantage of creating new categories rather than competing in existing markets. He discusses the success of Hideout Vodka and introduces a new agave spirit, the "77," designed for health-conscious consumers. The episode also explores the impact of celebrity endorsements and meaningful partnerships, such as Hideout Vodka's initiative with the National Parks. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.   John Spagnola on the Challenge of Competing in Established Markets John starts off the conversation by reflecting on the challenges faced by smaller brands in a market controlled by a few large companies like Diageo and Constellation Brands. These giants can easily undercut smaller brands on price, making it difficult for them to compete. John emphasizes that merely trying to fit into the existing market is a trap that many fall into. Instead of competing within established markets, John advocates for creating new categories. This approach not only differentiates products but also attracts attention from larger companies, who view category creators as innovative rather than as threats. He cites the success of brands like Screwball Whiskey and 21 Seed, which created unique categories and achieved significant valuations.   Hideout Vodka and MGM Partnership John shares the story of Hideout Vodka, which gained traction by securing a partnership with MGM properties in Las Vegas. This partnership allowed Hideout Vodka to become the vodka of choice in several MGM hotels, marking a significant win for a smaller player in the industry. However, as the brand began to grow, John realized they were falling into the trap of merely trying to fit into the existing market. Recognizing the need for innovation, John and his team brainstormed a new product idea involving Cheech and Chong, the iconic duo known for their association with cannabis culture. They conceptualized a vodka product called "The Judge's Water," which cleverly ties into a memorable scene from Cheech and Chong's movie "Up in Smoke." The product not only serves as vodka but also converts into a bong, appealing to their fan base in a novel way. This product sold over 5,000 units quickly, showcasing the power of category creation.   John Spagnola on Leveraging Celebrity Partnerships John believes that aligning with well-known figures can turbocharge category creation and drive consumer interest. He shares his excitement about developing an apple pie whiskey, initially inspired by Martha Stewart, but now considering other celebrity partnerships that could elevate the brand even further. John then discusses the potential for high acquisition multiples in the spirits industry, noting that companies can achieve impressive valuations, especially when they have a unique product and a celebrity endorsement. He highlights the average revenue multiples in the spirits sector, which can reach as high as 21x for celebrity-backed brands, making it an attractive space for innovation and investment. To hear more from John Spagnola and his ventures in Category Creation, download and listen to this episode. If you want to hear about our previous discussion about the Custom Spirits Category, check out this previous episode at FYD 212.   Bio John Spagnola is the CEO of Ublendit, LLC. Ublendit is a pioneer in the custom spirts category. They are the first to create custom spirits for hotels, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and special events. John is also Managing Partner at Venture Santa Cruz, where they identify new markets to make a difference in and disrupt them. He’s based in Santa Cruz, CA.   Links
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Sep 9, 2024 • 59min

373 Surviving and Thriving: Dr. Judy Ho on How to Heal and Build Stronger Relationships

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have an insightful conversation with Dr. Judy Ho, a renowned clinical and forensic neuropsychologist, to explore attachment theory and its impact on personal and professional relationships. Dr. Judy Ho explains how early caregiver relationships shape our emotional responses and interactions throughout life. They also discuss the nature versus nurture debate, cultural influences on empathy, and the potential for healing attachment wounds at any age. This episode also delves into managing negative self-talk and understanding attachment styles, offering practical strategies for fostering healthier relationships and personal growth. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Judy Ho on Attachment Theory Attachment theory, as explained by Dr. Judy Ho, is a psychological model that describes the dynamics of long-term interpersonal relationships between humans. It focuses on the bond formed with primary caregivers during early childhood, which lays the foundation for how individuals perceive themselves and navigate challenges in life. This bond is crucial because, as infants, we are entirely dependent on adults for survival. The lessons learned during this formative period are deeply ingrained, influencing our behavior and emotional responses well into adulthood. Christopher Lochhead brings up the nature versus nurture debate, questioning whether core human qualities like love and empathy are innate or learned. Dr. Judy Ho explains that these traits are a combination of both biological drives and environmental influences. While there may be an innate tendency to care for those we are related to, much of how we express love and empathy is shaped by our environment and the behaviors modeled by others. Cultural Influences on Empathy and Generosity Christopher shares a personal story about an encounter with an immigrant in distress, highlighting cultural differences in perceptions of generosity and empathy. Dr. Ho notes that culture significantly shapes our values and behaviors. In individualistic cultures like the United States, personal independence is often prioritized, whereas collectivist cultures emphasize community support and shared resources. This cultural context can profoundly influence how individuals respond to acts of kindness and generosity. Dr. Judy Ho on Healing at Any Age The conversation shifts to the possibility of healing attachment wounds, even for those who have experienced difficult childhoods. Dr. Ho reassures listeners that healing is possible at any age, regardless of whether the original caregivers are available for discussion. The key is to develop a secure attachment to oneself, which involves recognizing and addressing the patterns formed due to past experiences. Christopher reflects on the concept of "re-parenting" oneself, a process he learned about in his early twenties. Dr. Ho explains that this involves revisiting past experiences and providing oneself with the nurturing and support that may have been lacking during childhood. It is essential to understand that many individuals carry the misconception that they are to blame for their caregivers' shortcomings, leading to negative self-talk and a distorted self-image. To hear more from Dr. Judy Ho & her thoughts on self-healing and building healthy relationships, download and listen to this episode. Bio Dr. Judy Ho is a triple board-certified clinical and forensic neuropsychologist, television and media personality, and tenured associate professor at Pepperdine University. She specializes in evidence-based therapies for mental health and has published extensively on various psychological topics. Dr. Ho is also the author of Stop Self-Sabotage, focusing on personal growth and overcoming self-defeating behaviors.
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Aug 26, 2024 • 59min

372 From Homeless to Millionaire: Grace Vandecruze and The Power of Believing Beyond Your Limits

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, our guest Grace Vandecruze treats us to an extraordinary story of resilience, determination, and financial empowerment. Grace shares her remarkable journey from a childhood marked by poverty and homelessness to becoming a successful entrepreneur and financial advisor. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Grace Vandecruze’s Early Life and Influences Grace’s story begins in Guyana, where she was raised by her grandmother. Her grandmother's unwavering belief in her potential played a crucial role in shaping Grace's mindset. Despite limited resources, her grandmother's love and generosity instilled in her the philosophy of "believe beyond your limits." Grace's family immigrated to the United States when she was 14, seeking better opportunities. They faced numerous challenges, including homelessness. Despite these hardships, her determination to succeed never wavered. She viewed education as the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and worked tirelessly to excel academically. Financial Empowerment and Education The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Grace to shift her focus toward financial empowerment. She had been educating community groups about financial literacy, introducing concepts like investing and personal finance. In addition, the tragic events surrounding George Floyd's death further motivated her to publish her book, "Homeless Millionaire: Six Pillars to Uplift to Financial Abundance," to empower others during a time of crisis. Grace's book is designed to be accessible and practical, filled with tools and resources to help readers navigate their financial journeys. She likens the process to climbing a mountain, where she supports readers every step of the way. Grace Vandecruze on Embracing Identity and Overcoming Stereotypes Grace reflects on her identity as a woman, an immigrant, and a person of color, asserting that these aspects of her life are not disadvantages but rather unique strengths that set her apart. She believes that everyone has the potential to transcend stereotypes and limitations through mindset and determination. Grace likens life to mountain climbing, where reaching a peak is just a momentary celebration before facing the challenges of the descent. She emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and the pursuit of new challenges. To hear more from Grace Vandecruze & her amazing journey, download and listen to this episode. Bio Grace Vandecruze is a financial advisor, CPA, and Founder of Grace Global Capital, LLC, with over 20 years of Wall Street experience. She has advised on transactions exceeding $5 billion and holds an MBA from The Wharton School. Grace’s life was transformed after a fire left her family homeless, fueling her passion for financial wellness. An accomplished mountaineer and sailor, she inspires others through her resilience. Grace has been recognized by Business Insurance and Directors & Boards, and frequently contributes to financial media as a speaker and thought leader. Links Find out more about Grace Vandecruze! LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter) | Homeless to Millionaire We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!
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Aug 19, 2024 • 1h 35min

371 Every Startup Needs a Problem: AI, Startups, and the Art of Storytelling with Adam Frankl

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we engage in a compelling conversation with Adam Frankl, a seasoned expert in the tech startup world. With over two decades of experience, Adam shares his insights on the current state of tech startups, particularly in light of the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). In our conversation with Adam, we delve into actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, so stay tuned to learn more about the current state of startups. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Adam Frankl on The Current Startup Landscape Adam Frankl begins by highlighting the paradox of the startup environment in 2024. On one hand, launching a tech startup has never been easier due to the availability of advanced tools and resources. Entrepreneurs now have access to productivity tools, social media for distribution, and the ability to build audiences quickly. This democratization of technology allows startups to reach potential customers and create impactful products more efficiently than ever before. However, this ease of entry has led to intense competition. The number of startups has surged, making the market more crowded. Founders must navigate not only the challenges of building their products but also the pressures of macroeconomic trends, such as fluctuating valuations and the uncertain IPO landscape. Adam Frankl on Transformative Impact of AI They then move into the topic of the transformative impact of AI on startups. Adam observes that every startup he has worked with in the past year has integrated AI into their operations, not just in product development but across all aspects of the business. This integration allows startups to enhance productivity, streamline processes, and innovate at an unprecedented pace. He emphasizes that the speed at which startups can achieve traction today is remarkable. For instance, he shares a story about a relatively new startup that has already generated revenue and is on track to become a billion-dollar company, all within a year of its founding. This rapid growth is largely attributed to the use of AI in various functions, from coding to marketing. Focusing on Problems, Not Products A key insight from Adam is the importance of focusing on the problem rather than the product. He argues that successful founders prioritize understanding the pain points of their target audience. By concentrating on the problem, startups can create solutions that resonate deeply with potential customers. This approach aligns with the principles of the lean startup movement, which advocates for validating problems before developing products. Adam explains that when founders articulate the problem they aim to solve, they attract the attention of those who experience that problem. This creates a community of potential customers eager to engage with the startup, even before a product is fully developed. He stresses that the first product may not be perfect, but if it addresses a significant pain point, customers will be willing to invest in it. To hear more about Adam Frankl’s thoughts on the current landscape of startups, download and listen to this episode. Bio Adam Frankl is the author of "The Developer Facing Startup," a guide dedicated to helping developers navigate the complexities of launching and scaling their own tech startups. With over a decade of experience in software engineering and entrepreneurship, Frankl combines his deep technical expertise with a passion for innovation. He has successfully co-founded multiple startups and understands the unique challenges faced by developer-entrepreneurs. His book distills practical advice, actionable strategies, and real-world insights to empower developers in their journey from coding to company ...
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Aug 12, 2024 • 1h 47min

370 Character and Leadership: The Power of Ethics in an Uncertain World with Dr. Susan Liautaud

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with Dr. Susan Liautaud, a renowned ethicist and professor at Stanford University. With Dr. Liautaud, we explore the complexities of ethical decision-making in today’s fast-paced world, focusing on leadership, resilience, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI. Dr. Liautaud also emphasizes the importance of character in leadership and the ethical implications of technology. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Susan Liautaud on Emphasizing Character Over Experience Dr. Liautaud underscores the critical role of character in leadership, noting that while experience and track record are crucial, the emphasis on character seems to have diminished in recent years. She expresses concern that many organizations prioritize short-term gains over ethical considerations, leading to a culture where difficult decisions are avoided. This avoidance can have dire consequences, as seen in various high-profile corporate scandals. Direct Communication as an Ethical Responsibility Christopher Lochhead shares his observations about the communication styles prevalent in different regions, contrasting the directness he experienced growing up in Montreal with the more indirect communication often found in Silicon Valley. He expresses frustration with what he perceives as a culture of passive-aggressiveness, where people avoid confrontation and use euphemisms to address issues. Dr. Liautaud agrees, stating that clarity and directness are not just cultural preferences but ethical responsibilities. Dr. Susan Liautaud on Addressing Imposter Syndrome and Perfectionism The conversation touches on the phenomenon of "imposter syndrome," particularly among younger professionals. Christopher shares his perspective that feeling like an imposter often stems from a misunderstanding of one's own capabilities. Dr. Liautaud concurs, noting that the label of "imposter syndrome" can be misleading and that it is essential for individuals to recognize their growth and learning in new roles. Dr. Liautaud then highlights the broader implications of perfectionism in the workplace, suggesting that the pursuit of unattainable standards can lead to unethical behavior, such as cheating or avoidance. She emphasizes that organizations must foster an environment where individuals feel safe to express their challenges and seek support without fear of judgment. To hear more from Dr. Susan Liautaud and the how adhering to Ethical Responsibilities can affect and improve the workplace, download and listen to this episode. Bio Dr. Susan Liautaud teaches cutting-edge ethics at Stanford University and serves as Chair of the Council (trustees) at the London School of Economics and Political Science. She advises corporations, NGOs, and governmental bodies and their leaders on internationally complex ethics matters and is the Founder of the Ethics Incubator. Links Connect with Dr. Susan Liautaud Website | LinkedIn | X / Twitter |  Stanford Profile We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!
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Aug 5, 2024 • 1h 6min

369 Educating Against Hate: Dr. Robert Wolf’s Mission Against Antisemitism

Dr. Robert Wolf, a passionate advocate against antisemitism with deep personal ties to Holocaust history, shares his father’s harrowing survival story. He emphasizes the urgent need for education to combat rising antisemitism, noting troubling misconceptions among young Americans about the Holocaust. The conversation also explores themes of resilience and redemption, as Wolf reflects on his father’s journey of rebuilding life post-war. They discuss the importance of remembrance, unity, and proactive action against cultural intolerance in today’s society.
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Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 26min

368 A Call to Serve: Shelane Etchison on Leadership, Legacy, and Her Fight for Political Change

Shelane Etchison, a veteran running for U.S. office, shares her transformative journey from a non-military background to military service, sparked by the events of 9/11. She discusses her determination to serve, the unique challenges she faced in ROTC, and the emotional toll of combat. Shelane advocates for independent leadership in a polarized political landscape and stresses the importance of military representation in government. She also highlights socio-economic struggles and the need for electoral reforms to enhance political accountability.
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Jul 15, 2024 • 1h 5min

367 The Pursuit of Peace For Ukraine In the Face of Evil with Roman Sheremeta

Roman Sheremeta, a distinguished economist, discusses the war in Ukraine, emphasizing resilience and global implications. Topics include the devastation of war, the importance of standing against aggression, and the need for unity and leadership. The conversation delves into personal experiences, societal issues, and the role of strength in maintaining peace.
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Jul 8, 2024 • 1h 18min

366 Pattern Breakers: Mike Maples Jr. of Floodgate on Disruptive Thinking and Transformative Ventures

Mike Maples Jr., co-founder of Floodgate, discusses Pattern Breakers and non-consensus thinking in startups. He emphasizes the need for disruptive ideas, challenging norms, and staying authentic. The conversation explores creating a different future, taking high-risk bets, and rejecting mediocrity for greatness.

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