How I Built This with Guy Raz

Brett Schulman, co-founder and CEO of CAVA, and Sean Murray, founder of Rootless Coffee Company, tackle the real struggles of early-stage entrepreneurs. They discuss scaling businesses while managing imposter syndrome and the challenges of seeking growth funding. Schulman shares essential strategies for navigating market complexities, while Murray offers insights on optimizing sales channels. Listeners gain valuable lessons on mentorship, creative problem-solving, and the emotional hurdles in building a brand, all from experts who’ve successfully tackled these challenges.

Ju Rhyu, co-founder of Hero Cosmetics, created the Mighty Patch acne treatment, inspired by similar products from her time in Korea. Alongside Dwight Lee, she shares how they identified a unique market opportunity and successfully launched their product on Amazon. Their journey highlights cultural contrasts in business, innovative marketing strategies like a college ambassador program, and how social media propelled their brand's growth. They reflect on the blend of hard work and timing that led them to a $630 million acquisition in just five years.

Marc Lore, a serial entrepreneur known for launching Diapers.com and Jet.com, lends his expertise as he discusses strategic pivots with fellow founders. Ben Bailey shares the challenges of rising cocoa prices at Chomp Chocolate, while Ryan Thompson considers national expansion for his whiskey brand Tenth Mountain. Lore emphasizes adaptability in business and provides insights on market strategies that cater to consumer needs, highlighting the importance of finding the right talent and making informed decisions in a competitive landscape.

Kip Tindell and Sharon Tindell, co-founders of The Container Store, discuss their journey from skeptics to industry pioneers in home organization. They share how the idea of selling empty boxes transformed into a retail sensation despite initial doubts. The couple reflects on challenges with growth, the pitfalls of going public, and the effects of online competition. Insights about their partnership and a notable collaboration with Marie Kondo showcase their dedication to promoting organization as a means to enhance daily life.

Steve Case, the AOL co-founder, shares valuable insights on building tech companies while answering questions from early-stage founders. He emphasizes the importance of engaging diverse audiences, especially in app development. Jason Levi from Kidenza dives into innovative strategies for marketing early childhood music education products, focusing on appealing to grandparents. Their discussions explore challenges in customer acquisition and the evolution of business models in today’s fast-paced tech landscape.

Kurt Ainsworth, a former professional baseball player and co-founder of Marucci Sports, shares his incredible journey from athlete to entrepreneur. After a shoulder injury cut his career short, he and his partners launched a bat company from his backyard. They faced huge challenges, like the NCAA decertifying their bats, but pivoted by expanding into aluminum bats. Their unique marketing strategy, leveraging player relationships, led to Marucci becoming a top competitor and set to be the official bat of Major League Baseball.

Jane Wurwand, co-founder of Dermalogica and skincare expert, shares her insights on building a brand through customer education. She emphasizes the importance of community in entrepreneurship, spotlighting Molly Brubaker, founder of Baby Booty, who discusses creating a supportive fitness environment for new parents. They tackle challenges faced by early-stage founders, from scaling vegan baby food businesses to enhancing performance underwear brands, showcasing resilience and innovative strategies in today’s market.

Norma Kamali, an iconic fashion designer, shares her incredible journey from airline clerk to runway legend. She describes her eye-opening trips to 1960s London, which inspired her unique designs, including the famous sleeping bag coat. Norma reflects on her experiences with celebrities and the impact of fast fashion on the industry, advocating for comfort and creativity. She also discusses overcoming personal challenges, including reinventing herself after divorce, demonstrating resilience in the ever-evolving world of fashion.

Gary Erickson, founder of Clif Bar, joins Valerie Franklin from Artisans Cooperative to provide essential advice to budding entrepreneurs. They tackle intriguing questions from founders like James, who’s transforming recycled plastics, and Elsie, who accidentally created a pet hair remover. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of community-focused growth, innovative grassroots marketing, and the challenges of launching a collaborative marketplace against giants like Etsy. Their insights blend humor and practical wisdom, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit.

Cory Cotton and Tyler Toney, co-founders of Dude Perfect, share their incredible journey from college friends to YouTube sensations. They reveal how a playful bet sparked their first viral video, setting the stage for outrageous trick shots that captivated audiences. The duo discusses overcoming early struggles with finances and copyright issues, their transition from side hustlers to full-time creators, and the balancing act of faith, friendship, and fame in their lives. Their story is a testament to creativity and perseverance in the evolving world of online entertainment.