Michael Markesbery is the Co-founder and CEO of OROS Labs, a game-changing material technology company. His leadership and drive for innovation have propelled OROS Labs to create some of the most advanced thermal materials on the planet. Recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 winner, Michael developed Solarcore®, a technology leveraging aerogel's properties to transform insulation in multiple industries. In this episode… Many industries struggle to maintain optimal heating and cooling. Poor insulation in everything from coats to industrial buildings has created a need for more advanced technology. What does it take to become a cross-industry leader in revolutionary technology and innovation? When climbing the Swiss Alps during a college backpacking trip in Europe, Michael Markesbery found he couldn’t stay warm without layering coats. Realizing the insufficiency of insulation in the apparel industry, he set out to develop versatile technology using aerogel to provide insulation for clothing, buildings, and vehicles. Michael demonstrated the technology’s use by creating a jacket that could withstand the below-freezing temperatures of liquid nitrogen, allowing him to demonstrate the product’s unique value in a memorable way for consumers. By differentiating his products from the mass market, Michael cultivated a strong company and transformed the industry. In this episode of the Up Arrow Podcast, William Harris invites Michael Markesbery, the Co-founder and CEO of OROS Labs, to speak about turning a multi-industry problem into cutting-edge solutions. Michael shares how he recruited materials engineer Jeff Nash, his journey from a zoologist to a materials scientist, and how he obtained his pilot’s license.

Linda Bustos is the Founder and Content Creator at Ecom Ideas, a platform dedicated to unveiling the latest UX and technical trends in the e-commerce industry. In her role, she sources and publishes in-depth insights for digital marketers, product managers, and designers, including a comprehensive weekly newsletter. Having served as the Director of Digital Content Strategy at Elastic Path, the VP of eCommerce at CorporateGift.com, and the Founder and eCommerce Consultant at Edgacent, Linda has a wealth of experience in creating compelling online shopping environments. In this episode… eCommerce businesses must juggle multiple trends, new technology integrations, and sales strategies alongside evolving consumer demands and preferences. How can you elevate your online store with creative approaches to drive sales? With deep involvement in various facets of content creation, Linda Bustos understands how to curate shopping experiences for diverse customers. You can leverage interactive digital shopping to allow consumers to view products in multiple settings. For instance, some apparel brands allow customers to select product models based on their unique body types, simulating in-store fitting experiences. Similarly, implementing visual searches to provide alternatives to out-of-stock items mitigates lost sales opportunities and increases customer retention while offering product finder quizzes personalizes the user experience and increases conversion rates. In this episode of the Up Arrow Podcast, William Harris meets with Linda Bustos, the Founder and Content Creator at Ecom Ideas, to talk about e-commerce innovation through strategic website integrations. Linda breaks down the importance of detailed product data, the integration of UX design practices, and the constant evolution required to keep up with industry trends.

Jessica Curdi is the Vice President of Digital Marketing at The Beauty Bank, an innovative beauty brand holder leading digital marketing strategy across a portfolio of emerging brands. As a seasoned digital marketer, she has over 15 years of experience in the fashion and beauty industry, having worked with consumer brands, including StriVectin, L’Oreal, and Warp + Weft. Jessica specializes in brand awareness, customer acquisition, and fostering retention and loyalty. In this episode… Are revenue plateaus in your e-commerce business holding you back? Implementing foundational digital marketing strategies may be the key to unlocking explosive growth. With iOS 14.5 altering the way companies collect consumer data, digital marketing remains a top challenge for many brands. Digital marketer and e-commerce maven Jessica Curdi insists on returning to the basics of marketing, stating that structuring your strategies around profitable growth areas can help you scale effectively. Once you’ve established a stable foundation, you can begin integrating brand storytelling with performance marketing to communicate your brand’s and product’s benefits to your customers. Throughout each growth phase, retain customers by tracking their journey through multi-touch attribution. No matter which marketing strategy you employ, Jessica advises continuously testing and analyzing marketing campaigns to refine your strategies. In today’s episode of the Up Arrow Podcast, William Harris chats with Jessica Curdi, the VP of Digital Marketing at The Beauty Bank, about the role of digital marketing in brand growth. Jessica explains the necessity of a solid analytical approach in marketing, foundational work on marketing strategies, the significance of customer retention, choosing an ideal marketing agency, and the evolution of digital marketing post-iOS 14.5.

Tim Calise is the Managing Member of Acote Consulting, where he helps growth-minded business owners drive value. He is also the President of Coaching at Wealth Without Wall Street, an online community reeducating individuals and entrepreneurs about money and wealth.  As Alex Hormozi’s former “number two” at Gym Launch and the Co-creator of the AI-driven SaaS platform ALAN, Tim has a track record of driving rapid growth. With over 20 years of experience helping entrepreneurs achieve financial freedom and business acumen, he hosts the Leveling The Field podcast. In this episode… What strategies propel businesses from mediocrity to industry domination? The key often lies in how the strategies are executed. Could a shift in approach be as transformative as the tactics themselves? Having worked alongside business mastermind Alex Hormozi to build growth-minded enterprises, Tim Calise has developed calculated processes for growth and profitability. His proprietary “Product Profit” framework involves reassessing your product’s offerings to align with customer preferences and market demands, shifting your focus from immediate profit to lifetime value considerations. Additionally, Tim recommends making small, strategic decisions to foster innovation, adaptability, and efficiency. By evaluating and streamlining each operation, goal, and approach, you can drive long-term growth and sustainability. In this episode of the Up Arrow Podcast, William Harris invites Tim Calise, the President of Coaching at Wealth Without Wall Street, to speak about building robust, service-based businesses. He explains the importance of financial freedom, his characteristics of success, and how to leverage offers to boost customer acquisition and retention.

Robb Akridge (Dr. Robb) is the Founder and CEO of REA Innovations, Inc., the creator of the skin care brand OPULUS Beauty Labs. The brand has been recognized by TIME as one of the top 100 inventions of 2021. As a multifaceted scientist with expertise spanning botany, HIV/AIDS research, and skincare technology, Dr. Robb began his entrepreneurial journey with Sonicare toothbrushes and later co-founded Clarisonic, a brand that transformed the beauty industry. In this episode… Consumers have become increasingly savvy about their purchases, demanding product transparency and authenticity. Yet too much information can be overwhelming, especially with science-based products. In this case, the science behind the products should be communicated simply and effectively. Does simplification compromise the products’ integrity? Scientist, innovator, and business executive Robb Akridge understands how to transform complicated scientific concepts into compelling, consumer-friendly narratives that educate and captivate customers. When distilling complex information into easily digestible material, he emphasizes clear communication, visual storytelling, and tapping into shared human experiences to resonate with consumers and increase product appeal. You can also leverage influencers to introduce products when the market is primed and convey benefits that shape consumer perspectives. Tune in to this episode of the Up Arrow Podcast as William Harris chats with Robb Akridge, the Founder and CEO of REA Innovations, Inc., about bridging scientific complexity and consumer appeal. Dr. Robb sheds light on the intricacies of marketing, the effectiveness of influencers, and the critical role of timing in product popularity.

David Wachs is the CEO and Founder of Handwrytten, a company bringing a modern twist to traditional communication through automated handwritten notes. As a seasoned entrepreneur, he founded Cellit, a text messaging company providing innovative communications solutions to leading brands. David is also a frequent speaker on messaging technology and has presented for the Direct Marketing Association, the Advertising Research Foundation, and other notable organizations. In this episode… What does it take to make your customers lifelong fans of your brand? Sometimes, going back to the basics is all you need to win over your customers in a digitalized market. David Wachs, a communication brand builder, emphasizes the value of personalized communication, like handwritten notes, to stand out in the digital age. This demonstrates appreciation and lets your customers know they’re top of mind. Additionally, owning up to your mistakes and going above and beyond for the customer can turn negative experiences into positive ones and improve lifetime value. Producing valuable content, creating a cadence for communication, giving consumers choices, and providing a channel for feedback allows customers to feel in control and valued. In this Up Arrow Podcast episode, William Harris welcomes David Wachs, the Founder and CEO of Handwrytten, to discuss personalized customer communication. David explains how augmented reality impacts the buyer’s journey, his journey to entrepreneurial success, and why he utilizes meditation and hypnosis for stress management.

Amanda Brinkman is the CEO of Sunshine Studios, which focuses on transformative brand storytelling. She is a seasoned producer, filmmaker, branding expert, and keynote speaker. Amanda has served in C-level roles in major corporations and has been the driving force behind the successful Hulu series Small Business Revolution, which ran for six seasons and garnered multiple Emmy nominations. A champion of women's achievements in business, Amanda has won numerous awards and is passionate about guiding others to identify their superpowers to create a positive change in the world. In this episode… Many are caught in the pursuit of a purpose so grand that it impedes their daily objectives. Aligning your personal purpose with your career can lead to feelings of confusion and uncertainty. How can you combine your professional ambitions with your desire to create a positive impact? Amanda Brinkman addresses this struggle, having integrated meaningful work into the brand space and built a business around impactful storytelling. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing your core strengths and superpowers and aligning them with your career for a fulfilling and purpose-led life. Genuinely connecting with an audience requires translating your purpose into actionable brand storytelling by leading with authenticity. You can then employ metrics to track the engagement and reach of your efforts. In this episode of the Up Arrow Podcast with William Harris, Amanda Brinkman, the CEO of Sunshine Studios, talks about translating personal purpose into professional excellence. Amanda also touches on overcoming purpose paralysis, integrating service into life, and building a career that harmonizes achievement with altruism.

Katie Richardson founded Puj, an internationally successful multimillion-dollar company with distribution across thousands of stores and numerous countries. Her innovative work has graced popular shows like The Ellen DeGeneres Show, the Today Show, and the Rachael Ray Show and has landed her on the cover of Entrepreneur magazine. As an executive business coach, Katie empowers founders and CEOs by teaching essential mindsets, skills, and tools for robust business operations and purposeful living. A highly creative individual, she shares tactics for business growth, effective branding, and the importance of personal development for comprehensive success. In this episode… Have you ever tried to fulfill your potential while being pulled in different directions? You can turn this dilemma into a compelling brand narrative that connects with people worldwide. Today’s guest’s story demonstrates how balancing life's dimensions with strategic thinking opens doors to unexpected opportunities. So how did she pull this off? After her company experienced explosive growth and became featured in national television shows, design and leadership expert Katie Richardson struggled to be all things to all people. To solve her multifaceted entrepreneurial dilemma and meet customers’ needs, she created products that resonated with consumers emotionally. She maintains that infusing human values into every aspect of your company personalizes your brand, fosters customer loyalty, and leads to organic PR opportunities. Additionally, Katie says to shift your business model to prioritize personal development and wellness, ensuring you can sustain the demands of entrepreneurship. In this episode of the Up Arrow Podcast, William Harris talks with Katie Richardson, the Founder of Puj, about weaving resilience and savvy branding into business growth. Katie illustrates the profound impact of storytelling through product experiences, the courage needed to reinvent oneself, and the empowering shift from a single-goal focus to a multifaceted approach to life and business.

Matt Bertulli, Co-founder and CEO of Pela Case and Lomi, discusses DTC success strategies including strong leadership, inventory management, and diversified advertising channels. He emphasizes curiosity and communication as key traits for CEOs to build valuable relationships and surpass competition by focusing on specialties. The podcast covers topics such as acquisition strategies, offline recommendations, inventory management, mental health breaks, and celebrity influencers.

Shani Bocian is the Co-founder and CEO of Allermi, a personalized DTC allergy medicine. She founded the company with her father, an Allergy and Immunology Professor at Stanford University, who had been developing a comprehensive allergy medication. Since Allermi’s launch, Shani has raised over $4.7 million and grew the company over 1,000% in 2023. In this episode… Millions of people suffer from allergies, yet many medications only target one symptom, and consumers must browse an open market to determine the most effective treatment for their symptoms. Personalized DTC medicine has emerged as an alternative to traditional treatments, allowing consumers more autonomy over their healthcare journeys. How can DTC healthcare companies target customers with precision? After suffering from chronic allergies for years, DTC entrepreneur Shani Bocian recognized a more effective way to treat symptoms and achieve long-term relief. By developing a single formula that incorporates multiple medications, companies can target customers with diverse needs. When building a consumer base, Shani says to differentiate yourself from mass-market brands by showcasing credibility and emphasizing customization. Customer retention and loyalty are integral to sustaining a DTC medicine brand, so you can offer free trials and employ subscription models and referral programs to drive sales and growth.  In today’s Up Arrow Podcast episode, William Harris hosts Shani Bocian, the Co-founder and CEO of Allermi, to talk about the rise of DTC medicine. Shani explains how she built a nine-figure e-commerce store, how Allermi provides personalized and accessible healthcare, and the obstacles she faced scaling her brand.