How I Built This with Guy Raz

Danny Winer, co-founder of Hexclad, shares his remarkable journey from aspiring actor to a leader in the cookware industry. He discusses the challenges of launching a $500 million company, including the pivotal moment when he discovered innovative non-stick technology. Winer reflects on the unique design of Hexclad's cookware that solves common issues with traditional pans. He reveals how strategic partnerships and celebrity endorsements fueled their growth, showcasing the balance of resilience and ingenuity in entrepreneurship.

Jonathan Neman, co-founder and CEO of Sweetgreen, leads a conversation with early-stage entrepreneurs. He shares insights on scaling while maintaining brand integrity, especially in fast food. Matt, from Underground Mushroom Co., discusses the delicate balance of growth and sustainable practices in mushroom farming. Joey, owner of Dak Dak Wings, weighs the pros and cons of introducing new menu items. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the culinary landscape and the importance of passion in entrepreneurship!

Evan Spiegel, Co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc., shares his fascinating journey from a Stanford design project to leading a billion-dollar social media giant. He discusses rejecting Mark Zuckerberg’s buyout offer, driven by a vision for Snap's potential to revolutionize communication. Evan reflects on early challenges, such as funding and competition, and the strategic decisions that shaped Snapchat, including embracing augmented reality. He emphasizes innovation and ethical engagement as Snap evolves, exploring a future where technology aligns with social responsibility.

Andy Dunn, co-founder of Bonobos and creator of the social app Pie, joins the conversation to offer savvy advice to early-stage entrepreneurs. He discusses strategies for positioning a tennis-inspired athletic brand, reaching health-conscious consumers with vodka, and the intricacies of launching a biscotti brand. Dunn also emphasizes the importance of mental health in entrepreneurship, offers insights on community building, and shares the motivation behind his new app focused on fostering real-life connections.

William Wang, Founder and CEO of Vizio, shares his inspiring journey from mismanaging his first company to creating a top-selling TV brand. He recounts overcoming a near-fatal plane crash and his immigrant struggles, highlighting how these experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. Wang's innovative strategies, such as cutting out middlemen, propelled Vizio to success, disrupting giants like Samsung. His partnership with Costco played a crucial role in Vizio's rise, ultimately leading to its acquisition by Walmart for $2.3 billion.

Peter Rahal, co-founder of RXBAR and founder of David Protein Bars, shares invaluable advice for budding entrepreneurs. He discusses strategies for positioning products in competitive markets, including Kristi's women's supplements and April's cocktail mixers. Peter emphasizes the importance of clear communication, understanding product-market fit, and leveraging grassroots marketing. He also shares insights on managing sales channels like Amazon and the rising trend of non-alcoholic beverages, all while encouraging a learning mindset in business.

Missy Park, founder and CEO of Title IX, shares her inspiring journey from a college basketball player to the creator of a $100 million women's sportswear brand. She lovingly recounts the challenges of launching her mail-order catalog in 1989, driven by her frustration with ill-fitting athletic apparel. Missy reflects on Title IX's pivotal role in shaping women's sports and her unique approach to business, focusing on incremental successes and customer loyalty. With humor and heart, she emphasizes the need for representation in athletic gear, as well as the broader impacts of her $1 million donation to women's soccer.

Jeff and Curran Dandurand, co-founders of Jack Black Skin Care, share valuable insights from their entrepreneurial journey. They discuss the challenges of launching a men’s skincare brand and emphasize the importance of customer feedback and networking. Listeners hear from founders like Inga, seeking advice for her eco-friendly venture, and Ashley, navigating the luxury market. They explore innovative solutions for inventory management and building community around outdoor cooking, showcasing real-world strategies for startup success.

Abhi Ramesh, Founder and CEO of Misfits Market, shares his journey from witnessing food waste while apple picking to launching a grocery delivery service for misfit produce. He talks about using Facebook ads to gauge demand and hiring drivers from Craigslist, which led to rapid growth and significant funding. The pandemic accelerated his business's expansion, transforming it into a full online grocery store. Abhi reflects on overcoming challenges, building partnerships with farmers, and promoting sustainability in food practices.

Jeni Britton, the innovative founder of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, shares her expertise alongside Jesse Koenig of Jesse & Ben's and Casey White of Jaju Pierogi. They tackle marketing strategies, fundraising pressures, and the unique challenges of the food industry. Jeni discusses her new venture, Floura, aimed at addressing dietary fiber needs. The guests offer insights into building customer engagement and the importance of quality ingredients, weaving in personal anecdotes that highlight the entrepreneurial spirit.