How I Built This with Guy Raz
Guy Raz | Wondery
Guy Raz interviews the world’s best-known entrepreneurs to learn how they built their iconic brands. In each episode, founders reveal deep, intimate moments of doubt and failure, and share insights on their eventual success. How I Built This is a master-class on innovation, creativity, leadership and how to navigate challenges of all kinds.New episodes release on Mondays and Thursdays. Listen to How I Built This on the Wondery App or wherever you listen to your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/how-i-built-this now. Get your How I Built This merch at WonderyShop.com/HowIBuiltThis.
Episodes
Mentioned books
5 snips
Dec 4, 2023 • 1h 14min
Briogeo Hair Care: Nancy Twine (2020)
Nancy Twine, the founder of Briogeo Hair Care, shifted from a finance career to create her natural hair care brand after a personal tragedy. Inspired by childhood memories of homemade treatments, she faced funding challenges as a Black entrepreneur in a predominantly white industry. Despite initial struggles, her determination led to a remarkable partnership with Sephora, launching a line that now generates $100M in annual sales. Twine’s journey highlights resilience, innovation, and the importance of family support in achieving entrepreneurial dreams.
34 snips
Nov 30, 2023 • 42min
The surprise that's saving food with Lucie Basch of Too Good To Go (2023)
Lucie Basch, a French entrepreneur and co-founder of Too Good To Go, shares her inspiring journey to combat food waste. She discusses the app's innovative 'surprise bags' concept, connecting consumers with restaurants and groceries to buy surplus food at reduced prices. Collaboration is key, as Lucie highlights partnerships with other food startups to tackle the larger food waste crisis. The conversation also touches on balancing ethical business practices and securing investment while driving impactful change in the global food system.
45 snips
Nov 27, 2023 • 1h 17min
CAVA: Ted Xenohristos and Brett Schulman
Ted Xenohristos, co-founder of CAVA, grew up in a Greek-immigrant family with a passion for his heritage’s cuisine. Alongside Brett Schulman, former consultant turned CEO, they discuss the humble beginnings of their Mediterranean restaurant journey. They faced daunting challenges, like financial struggles and learning the ropes of the restaurant business, before achieving remarkable growth. Innovative thinking and strategic expansions into new markets, including Los Angeles, led to CAVA becoming a nationally recognized chain with over 280 locations.
27 snips
Nov 23, 2023 • 42min
The future of driving is autonomous with Dmitri Dolgov of Waymo
Dmitri Dolgov, Co-CEO of Waymo and a key player in autonomous vehicle technology, shares insights into the future of self-driving cars. He believes Waymo's vehicles surpass human drivers in safety and efficiency after years of development and thousands of rides. The conversation touches on how Waymo’s strategies differ from Tesla's, the journey from Google to an independent service, and the rapid growth of autonomous ride-hailing. Dmitri also discusses when we can expect more autonomous vehicles on the roads than human-driven ones.
42 snips
Nov 20, 2023 • 1h 13min
Everlane: Michael Preysman
Michael Preysman, the founder of Everlane, shares his journey from finance to fashion, driven by a passion for transparency. He taught himself the entire production process and challenged industry norms by revealing the true costs behind his T-shirts. Michael discusses the impact of ethical practices on brand growth, as well as the hurdles faced during the COVID era. He emphasizes the balance between profitability and sustainable practices, showcasing how consumer advocacy fueled Everlane's rapid success.
13 snips
Nov 16, 2023 • 31min
Literally unearthing a climate solution with Cody Finke of Brimstone
Cody Finke, co-founder and CEO of Brimstone, is on a mission to revolutionize cement production. With traditional methods contributing significantly to CO2 emissions, he discusses how replacing a key ingredient can transform the industry from carbon-intensive to carbon-negative. Dive into Finke's academic journey and the innovations behind using calcium silicate rocks. He also addresses the challenges of market acceptance and scaling operations, all while paving the way for a sustainable future in construction.
6 snips
Nov 13, 2023 • 1h 8min
Priority Bicycles: Dave Weiner
Dave Weiner, founder and CEO of Priority Bicycles, shares his remarkable journey from tech CEO to bicycle innovator. He discusses the challenges faced while launching low-maintenance bikes and the thrill of a successful Kickstarter campaign that exceeded expectations. With insights on designing durable bicycles, Weiner reflects on navigating the pandemic’s impact and personal setbacks, including a serious accident. The conversation highlights his commitment to creating affordable, high-quality bicycles that enhance the riding experience for everyday users.
26 snips
Nov 9, 2023 • 42min
When a robot cooks your lunch with Steve Ells of Chipotle and Kernel
Steve Ells, the visionary founder of Chipotle and Kernel, discusses his journey from revolutionizing fast casual dining to launching a highly automated vegan restaurant concept. He shares insights on how climate change informs his new venture and his belief that robots can enhance the dining experience for everyone. Ells explores the balance between technology and human touch in restaurants, the rise of plant-based options, and the importance of innovation and leadership in reshaping the food industry.
4 snips
Nov 6, 2023 • 1h 14min
Kona Ice: Tony Lamb
Tony Lamb, the mastermind behind Kona Ice and Traveling Tom's, shares his thrilling entrepreneurial journey from vacuum salesman to founder of a vibrant shaved ice franchise. He discusses how a frustrating experience with freezer-burned popsicles inspired him to innovate with self-serve syrup trucks. Tony also reveals the secrets behind growing Kona Ice to 1500 trucks across North America, including creative marketing strategies and community engagement. He emphasizes the blend of hard work, luck, and family support essential for navigating the ups and downs of business.
Nov 2, 2023 • 41min
The art of letting go with Vincent and Andrew Kitirattragarn of Dang Foods
Vincent and Andrew Kitirattragarn, co-founders of Dang Foods, open up about the emotional turmoil of stepping away from their beloved snack brand inspired by their heritage. They discuss the impact of the pandemic on their business, navigating layoffs, and tough decisions that tested their resilience. The brothers share a touching story of a serendipitous encounter that offered hope for the future, as well as their aspirations to inspire other Asian entrepreneurs in the food industry. Their candid reflections on success, setbacks, and cultural legacy are truly compelling.
