The Pop Up Report

Welcome to 'The Great Pursuit,' hosted by Ethan Song, where we delve into the world of entrepreneurship. In this episode, Ethan chats with Andy, the founder of Vessi, a fast growing footwear brand known for its waterproof, comfortable shoes. They discuss the journey of starting a sneaker brand, the importance of timing and product-market fit, and how Vessi managed to reach over $100 million in sales within seven years without external funding. Andy shares insights into transitioning from D2C to omnichannel, the complexities of entering new market segments, and the future of the athletic footwear industry. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with entrepreneurial wisdom, market trends, and the story behind a burgeoning footwear empire.00:31 Meet Andy: The Footwear Entrepreneur01:13 The Journey to Starting Vests02:17 Designing Footwear: From Sketch to Sample04:20 The Success of Vessi: Timing and Innovation07:45 Market Position and Brand Evolution16:12 Future of Athletic Footwear17:48 The Challenge of Diversification in Sports Brands19:17 Nike's Recent Performance and Future Prospects21:46 The Impact of Lifestyle Trends on Athletic Brands25:30 Advice for Growing Brands32:06 The Role of the CEO in Brand Success34:10 Exciting Developments for 2025Subscribe to never miss an episode: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thegreatpursuit.substack.com

Theo Satloff, co-founder of Remark, shares his entrepreneurial journey shaped by a childhood split between New York and Colorado and early exposure to retail through his entrepreneurial parents. He discusses co-founding Outdoorly, its evolution into Remark, and blending human expertise with AI to enhance online retail. Theo offers insights on entrepreneurship, maintaining human elements in AI, and his vision for Remark's future, closing with rapid-fire personal insights.Theo Satloff https://www.linkedin.com/in/theo-satloff/Remark website https://www.withremark.com/Remark LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/withremark/Show Notes:02:00 Theo's Background and Early Influences07:17 First Entrepreneurial Ventures08:58 The Birth and Evolution of Outdoorly17:51 Transition to Remark20:29 Remark's Value Proposition and AI IntegrationThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Sean Ro, co-founder of Lunar, shares his journey from studying economics and working in tech to launching an innovative craft hard seltzer brand with unique Asian fruit flavors. He discusses the inspiration behind Lunar, challenges in the alcohol industry, and the importance of Asian representation. Sean offers insights into product development, distribution strategies, and the role of community engagement in Lunar's growth—a valuable episode for aspiring entrepreneurs and beverage enthusiasts.Sean Ro LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/seandrinkslunarLunar website https://www.drinklunar.com/Lunar Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drinklunarShow Notes:03:54 Birth of Lunar: The Inspiration04:42 What is Lunar?16:56 Challenges and Distribution22:01 Scaling Up: From Zero to a Hundred Accounts22:37 The Appeal of a Tangible Product30:04 Cultural Ties in Beverage Sales33:07 Consistency and Patience in Brand BuildingThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Bryan Mahoney, co-founder of Chord Commerce, shares his journey from launching an internet agency in the late '90s to contributing to Glossier's success and now leading Chord. He reflects on early experiences, like hacking PowerPoint to create e-commerce websites, and key career moves that brought him to New York and Glossier. Bryan discusses the challenges and opportunities in brand building, especially during the pandemic, and explains Chord's evolution from a commerce platform to a data-driven solution leveraging AI in e-commerce. He provides insights on the future of e-commerce, DTC, and the role of data, offering valuable lessons on technology and brand growth.Bryan Mahoney https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanmahoney/Chord Commerce website https://www.chordcommerce.com/Chord Commerce LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/chordcommerce/Show Notes:02:02 Bryan's Early Career and Dynamo's Beginnings04:52 Dynamo's Growth and Success10:50 The Glossier Partnership15:55 Lessons from Glossier24:50 Launching New Brands26:11 Challenges and Market Trends27:32 Transition to Technology Company31:38 Understanding Headless Commerce43:19 Future of Commerce and AIThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Noah Stern and Ayal Twik, co-founders of Moose Knuckles, share their journey from family fashion roots and degrees in law and business to transforming the premium outerwear market. They discuss their strategic approach to licensing, production, and carving a niche with edgy, fashion-forward designs. The episode highlights their unique marketing tactics, wholesale partnerships, and success in the Asian market. Reflecting on building a “non-luxury luxury” brand, Noah and Ayal offer personal stories, key challenges, and insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing how Moose Knuckles became a fashion icon.Noah Stern https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-stern-9439a44/?originalSubdomain=caAyal Twik https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayaltwik/?originalSubdomain=caMoose Knuckles website https://www.mooseknucklescanada.com/Moose Knuckles Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mooseknucklescanada/Show Notes:05:40 First Venture: Student Sphere07:36 Founding Stay2209:35 Challenges and Growth17:09 Pandemic Impact and Pivot22:57 Exploring New Opportunities in a Growing Market24:04 Innovating for Content Creators32:08 Navigating Financial Challenges33:21 Achieving Traction and Profitability36:48 Maintaining a Frugal and Efficient Culture39:22 Scaling the Team and Expanding PartnershipsThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Andrew Lockhead shares his journey from his family's business to founding Stay22, focusing on solving pain points, building partnerships, and understanding customer needs. He discusses overcoming challenges like complex sales cycles and economic hardships. Andrew also discusses how Stay22 pivoted during the early days of the Covid 19 pandemic, innovated by listening to customer feedback, and implemented a lean strategy to emerge stronger.Andrew Lockhead LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlockhead/Stay22 website https://www.stay22.com/Stay22 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/stay22/Stay22 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/get.stay22/Show Notes:03:40 First Venture: Student Sphere05:36 Founding Stay2207:35 Challenges and Growth15:09 Pandemic Impact and Pivot20:57 Exploring New Opportunities in a Growing Market22:04 Innovating for Content Creators30:08 Navigating Financial Challenges31:21 Achieving Traction and Profitability34:48 Maintaining a Frugal and Efficient Culture37:22 Scaling the Team and Expanding PartnershipsThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Étienne Mérineau, co-founder of Heyday, shares his journey from the creative industry to launching the conversational commerce platform in 2016. He highlights how hyper-focus and strategic branding drove product-market fit and how a Quebec furniture company embraced conversational commerce during COVID-19. Étienne offers insights on market dynamics, personal finance, pre-seed investing, and B2B SaaS pricing, as well as the importance of investors and founder-market fit. He also touches on leveraging AI and building resilient company cultures in the evolving tech landscape.HeyDay website (acquired by HootSuite 2021) https://www.hootsuite.com/platform/engagementShow Notes:03:07 Founding Heyday: The Early Days05:10 Navigating the Chatbot Revolution13:16 Pandemic Pivot: Surviving and Thriving19:21 Acquisition Talks and Strategic Decisions28:02 Personal Finance Strategies30:46 Investment Tips and Best Practices33:18 Post-Acquisition Journey35:07 Transition to Venture Capital39:41 AI and B2B SaaS Insights51:48 Founder vs. Market: What's More Important?The Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Bill Shufelt, co-founder of Athletic Brewing Company, shares his transition from working in finance to creating a leading non-alcoholic craft beer brand. Recognizing the market gap for non-alcoholic beverages, he founded Athletic Brewing Company while embracing a healthier lifestyle. Bill expands on his journey by discussing the company's challenges, successes, and their focus on community, authentic experiences, and positive impact. He also shares personal insights on fitness, work-life balance, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.Athletic Brewing website https://athleticbrewing.com/Athletic Brewing Instagram https://www.instagram.com/athleticbrewing/Athletic Brewing LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/athletic-brewing-company-llc/Show Notes:07:39 The Birth of Athletic Brewing10:21 Developing a Unique Product13:03 Building a Community and Marketing Strategy20:40 Personal Journey with Running and Fitness23:44 Inspiring the Next Generation26:01 Spartan Partnership and Athletic Brewing28:13 Positive Impact and Community Initiatives30:55 Early Challenges and Fundraising35:04 Key Breakthroughs and Team Building39:52 Navigating the Non-Alcoholic Beer MarketThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Rohit Bhadange, co-founder and CEO of ZAMP, discusses the challenges of sales tax compliance for small and medium-sized businesses and shares what led him to enter the tax space. He highlights ZAMP's recent $10 million funding round and how their automated solution helps e-commerce and SaaS companies manage sales tax effortlessly. Rohit provides insights into growing a SaaS business, effective inbound marketing, and building customer trust in compliance solutions.Zamp website https://zamp.com/Zamp LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/zamptax/Show Notes:02:08 Journey into the Tax Space03:57 Challenges in Sales Tax Compliance10:35 Unique Selling Points of ZAMP17:00 Early Customer Acquisition19:06 Evolving Product and Customer Experience23:56 Growth and Go-to-Market Strategies24:52 Building Trust Through Partnerships30:52 Growth Channels for SaaS Businesses38:01 Customer Acquisition and RetentionThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Fred Campbell, founder of Hooké, discusses his remarkable journey from skateboarding and snowboarding videos to founding the outdoor brand, Hooké. He explains how a pivotal car accident redirected him towards creating an eco-conscious outdoor brand focused on fishing, hunting, and nature preservation. Fred provides insights on business challenges and milestones, his passion, and future vision, touching on recent projects like a book release and collaboration with Grower's Co, highlighting his commitment to storytelling, conservation, and sustainable living. Fred's narrative intertwines passion, business sustainability, and appreciation for Quebec's natural landscapes.Hooké website https://hooke.ca/Hooké Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hooke.ca/Hooké YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf-DYuFqCbhsEctE6Ie4hSAShow Notes:04:39 Building a Business from Passion08:41 Transition to Outdoor Adventures12:35 Founding Hooke and Brand Vision17:18 Content Creation Philosophy21:05 Revolutionizing the Fishing and Hunting Industry27:23 Promoting Respect for Nature30:22 Overcoming Challenges and Milestones39:45 Releasing a Book: Sharing Stories and RecipesThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Andrea Morris shares her journey of founding wellness brand B Yoga, now called b, halfmoon. After discovering yoga in Australia, she was inspired a few years later to create high-quality yoga mats that have become the standard in yoga communities worldwide. Andrea discusses setting clear company values and growing her brand over the past 10 years. She also shares her personal wellness routine and views on the future of the wellness industry.b, halfmoon website https://ca.bhalfmoon.com/b, halfmoon Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bhalfmoon_official/Show Notes:00:30 Andrea's Personal Journey and Discovery of Yoga03:45 The Birth of B Yoga11:02 The Evolution of B Yoga and its Impact on the Yoga Community17:03 The Importance of Brand Values and Community in B Yoga's Success22:43 The Acquisition of Halfmoon28:34 The Evolution of Yoga and Wellness Industry35:19 Personal Wellness Routine and Goal SettingThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Bill Graf, founder of Onda, shares his remarkable journey from investment banking to establishing a hospitality brand in Costa Rica. In this conversation, Bill discusses how his transformative travels and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic led to the creation of Onda. He highlights the brand's innovative, tech-enabled approach that caters to digital nomads and slow travelers, while emphasizing its strong focus on community. Gain insight into the challenges, successes, and future ambitions for Onda as it continues to expand on a global scale.Onda website https://stayonda.com/Onda Instagram https://www.instagram.com/findyouronda/Onda LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/findyouronda/Show Notes:01:29 Bill's Personal Journey06:44 The Birth of Onda14:46 Concept and Vision of Onda25:01 Challenges and Competition28:25 Building the First Property30:33 Initial Fundraising and First Property Acquisition31:21 Renovation Challenges and Opening Day Crisis46:51 Exploring Whole Hotel Buyouts49:26 Corporate Retreats and Custom ExperiencesThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Tim and Nick West, the co-founders of Bandit, discuss the company's journey, mission, and vision. They share their personal relationship with running, how the brand started with socks, and has grown into an exciting lineup of running apparel. The co-founders also delve into their focus on building a community-centric brand, the development of a new marathon training app, and the influence of the New York running scene on the brand's ethos and aesthetic.Bandit website https://banditrunning.com/Bandit instagram https://www.instagram.com/banditrunning/Show Notes:06:00 The Birth of Bandit and the Running Community08:25 The Evolution of Bandit as a Brand11:35 The Role of New York in Shaping Bandit's Identity14:46 The Creative Process and Aesthetic of Bandit12:18 The Unique Marketing and Sales Strategy of Bandit27:14 The Business Side of Things and Future Goals27:54 The Importance of Community in the Brand28:49 Creating Special Experiences through Events33:54 The Role of Membership in Enhancing Customer Experience36:19 Introducing the Program: A New App for Runners41:26 Observations on the Current State of RunningThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Katherine Homuth shares her journey from her early days through launching her first business, Shoplocket, to her current ventures SRTX and Sheertex. She reveals the challenges and triumphs of developing unbreakable tights with Sheertex, her textile innovation company. Katherine also provides a behind-the-scenes look at product development, discusses the emotional rollercoaster of exiting a business, and unravels the complexities of raising capital in today's market. This conversation is packed with invaluable insights on product, investor relations, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.SRTX website https://www.srtxlabs.com/Sheertex website https://sheertex.com/Sheertex Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sheertex/Show Notes:00:25 Katherine's Early Entrepreneurial Journey01:48 Founding Shoplocket03:33 Transitioning to SRTX and Sheertex12:21 The Challenge of Manufacturing22:30 Fundraising and Financial Strategies31:27 Work-Life Balance and Personal InsightsThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Randy Hetrick, the founder of TRX, dives into the company's origins, mission, and future direction. He recounts his personal life as a Navy Seal and how it inspired the creation of TRX, initially born from the necessity of staying fit during deployment. Randy shares insights into TRX's evolution from a simple concept to a comprehensive fitness solution, along with the challenges and triumphs along the way. He also dives into his new venture Outfit Fitness.TRX Training https://www.trxtraining.com/TRX Training Instagram https://www.instagram.com/trxtraining/Outfit Training https://outfittraining.com/Outfit Training Instagram https://www.instagram.com/OutFitTraining_HQ/Show Notes:01:32 A SEAL's Journey: Challenges and Opportunities04:36 Transitioning from Military to Entrepreneurship13:35 Building TRX: Strategies and Challenges18:50 Creating an Iconic Fitness Brand21:57 Combating Counterfeits and Staying Competitive25:21 Introducing Outfit Fitness: A New Venture33:48 Outfit Fitness: Strategy and Future VisionLinks discussedTRX https://www.trxtraining.com/Outfit Fitness https://outfittraining.com/Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyagehttps://www.amazon.ca/Endurance-Shackletons-Incredible-Alfred-Lansing/dp/0465062881Extreme Ownershiphttps://echelonfront.com/books/extreme-ownership/Peloton https://www.onepeloton.ca/Mindbody Online https://www.mindbodyonline.com/The Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Exciting News: The Pop-Up Report is Now The CrestAfter an incredible year on air, we are thrilled to announce that The Pop-Up Report is becoming The Crest Podcast. So, what's changing? We're sharpening our focus from general founder stories to a deep dive into the complex journey of achieving product-market fit. This is one of the toughest challenges in business, often requiring a blend of intuition, timing, and unwavering determination.At The Crest, we'll dig into the specific insights and strategies of today's top entrepreneurs and leaders to help you navigate this critical phase. Expect to hear from a wider range of guests, including product designers, entrepreneurs, investors, and CEOs.What's staying the same? Ethan Song will continue to host, maintaining our commitment to quality and transparency. Our mission remains to deliver actionable insights that you can apply directly to your business.With that, we invite you to enjoy The Crest with Ethan Song. We'd love to hear your thoughts!E46 The Crest: A product first approach with Left on Friday founders Laura Low Ah Kee and Shannon SavageLaura Low Ah Kee and Shannon Savage, co-founders of Left on Friday, recount their inspiring journey from being Lululemon employees to pioneers of a premium swimwear brand. Recognizing the influence of leadership and empowerment, Laura and Shannon explain their brand's vision, expanding on how an active lifestyle led them to recognize a market gap for high-quality swimwear. This inspired them to prioritize fabric innovation and fit. The conversation tackles their product development process, marketing strategies, and brand positioning in a competitive market, emphasizing product quality and customer experience as their guiding principles. Shannon and Laura reflect on their challenges and rewards, offering insights into building brands, maintaining vision, and creating products that empower.Left on Friday website https://leftonfriday.com/Left on Friday Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leftonfridayLeft on Friday Facebook https://www.facebook.com/leftonfriday/Show Notes:05:42 The Lululemon Journey: From Start-Up to Success10:17 Birth of Left on Friday13:55 The Making of LOF Swimwear16:59 Spreading the Word about LOF21:30 Athlete Partnerships and Expanding the BrandAdditional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessThe Crest is a podcast that dives into the art and science of finding product market fit. Through in-depth conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors, we uncover actionable insights to help you go from 0 to 1.Subscribe to The Crest on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecrestpodcast.substack.com

Brian Berger, founder of Mack Weldon, traces his journey from internet media companies to launching a successful direct-to-consumer men's wear brand. He recounts his early experiences with the internet, motivations behind Mack Weldon, and the challenges in establishing a brand in the basics category. Brian emphasizes the pivotal role of innovation, product quality, and customer connections to grow a brand. Furthermore, he explores the strategic significance of omni-channel distribution, the art of naming a business, and the evolving consumer market. Finally, he shares advice on leadership, longevity, and his vision for Mack Weldon's future.- - - - - - - - - - - -Mack Weldon website https://mackweldon.com/Mack Weldon Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mackweldon/Mack Weldon LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/mack-weldon/- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:01:34 Brian's Early Career and Internet Exposure03:17 The Genesis of Mack Weldon05:08 Launching Mack Weldon: Strategy and Challenges08:52 Product Development and Innovation12:07 Naming the Brand: The Story Behind Mack Weldon16:49 Marketing and Distribution Strategies22:07 Reflections and Lessons Learned- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and Hostess- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Bradley Gifford, the founder of Spoonful, discusses his career trajectory—from early roles in PR and communications to founding Spoonful, a health food business specializing in high-quality overnight oats. He shares how health challenges motivated him to address industry pain points, transition into the health and wellness sector, and navigate business growth through food services and local New York partnerships. Ultimately, Bradley gives insights into scaling, community building, and the evolving food industry.- - - - - - - - - - - -Spoonful website https://www.spoonful.life/Spoonful Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/grabspoonful/Spoonful Instagram https://www.instagram.com/grabspoonful- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:02:03 Personal Health Journey03:44 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins04:53 Founding Spoonful06:22 Product Differentiation and Challenges08:16 Marketing and Distribution Strategy24:03 Scaling and Logistics28:32 Future Plans and Vision- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and Hostess- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Kathleen Chan, founder of Calico, shares her background, starting in tech at Microsoft, before creating and scaling two different brands. She emphasizes that efficient product sourcing and maintaining quality is crucial for scaling businesses. Calico serves as a sourcing and production co-pilot for brands, specializing in apparel, footwear and accessories. Calico offers a vetted roster of ethical and innovative factories and provides comprehensive tools to streamline the entire production process from design to payments.- - - - - - - - - - - -Calico website https://www.joincalico.com/Calico LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/calicoai/- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:01:16 Revolutionizing Product Sourcing05:29 Navigating the Complex World of Manufacturing and Sourcing10:05 Global Sourcing vs. Local Manufacturing13:35 Ensuring Quality and Ethical Practices in Manufacturing19:57 Navigating Supplier Relationships and Inventory Risks23:57 The Importance of Trust and Quality in Supplier Partnerships26:32 The Role of Product Knowledge and Industry Experience29:04 Leveraging Community and Industry Connections- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and Hostess- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

E42 Pop Up Report: Navigating the New Wave of D2C Brands with nolkAlexandre Renaud, co-founder of nolk, introduces his latest venture dedicated to acquiring and nurturing e-commerce brands with a strong sustainability ethos. Previously, Alex was the co-founder of PremiumBeat, a music licensing service that successfully sold to Shutterstock. Alex gives his insights on the challenges and opportunities in the consumer brand landscape, including technological shifts, and the strategic focus on building a portfolio of brands promoting responsible consumer habits and environmental responsibility.- - - - - - - - - - - -nolk website https://www.nolk.com/nolk LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/nolkco/- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:01:21 The Story of PremiumBeat05:21 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship10:52 Learning from Early Mistakes14:32 The Vision for Nolk25:20 The Power of Portfolio Strategy in Brand Performance28:46 Influence of Private Equity and Brand Builders30:40 The Importance of Brand Purpose and Mission35:57 Challenges and Opportunities for Direct-to-Consumer Brands- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedPremiumBeat https://www.premiumbeat.com/Shutterstock https://www.shutterstock.com/RareCircles https://www.rarecircles.com/GymShark https://gymshark.com/Theios https://www.thrasio.com/Heydays https://www.heyday.co/Open Store https://open.store/- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:Inside the Scent-Free Revolution with Anie Rouleau, founder and CEO of the Unscented CompanyHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with Blanka- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). - - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Sophie Boulanger, co-founder of BonLook, dives into how the company shook up Canada's eyewear scene. Sophie talks about her entrepreneurial path, inspired by her family and shaped by her experiences at L'Oreal Canada and Luxottica. They delve into BonLook's inception and strategic decisions, including cutting out middlemen, expanding store presence, and picking prime locations, along with insights on hiring for retail. Finally, Sophie discusses why she sold BonLook, her future aspirations, and her intention to remain active in tech and entrepreneurship.- - - - - - - - - - - -BonLook website https://www.bonlook.ca/BonLook Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bonlook/Sophie Boulanger https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-boulanger-19b2b71/- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:02:44 From corporate to eyewear entrepreneur04:57 Disrupting the eyewear industry10:51 Challenges and innovations in online retail13:09 The strategic shift to brick-and-mortar stores21:19 Building a successful retail team25:43 The financial anatomy of a retail store29:05 Optimizing sales per square footage30:22 Navigating challenges of underperforming stores32:06 The importance of real estate and lease negotiations35:10 Reflecting on a successful exit strategy- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedL'Oreal https://www.loreal.com/Luxottica https://www.essilorluxottica.com/Oakley https://www.oakley.com/Ray Ban https://www.ray-ban.com/Vogue Eyewear https://www.vogue-eyewear.com/LensCrafters https://www.lenscrafters.ca/SunglassesHut https://www.sunglasshut.com/Warby Parker https://warbyparker.com/- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and Hostess- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). - - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Fabio Zeppilli, co-founder of Bad Monkey Popcorn, discusses his inspiring shift from academia and legal briefs to creating a buzz in the snack market. He reveals the recipe to the launch of Bad Monkey Popcorn: a blend of passion and innovative marketing tactics. This discussion further delves into Fabio's initial challenges, significant milestones, and insights on the critical role of cultivating a strong brand and community support. Throughout, Fabio emphasizes the importance of happiness, wellbeing, teamwork, and adaptability in entrepreneurship.- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:00:10 The Unconventional Journey from Law to Popcorn03:20 The Birth of Bad Monkey Popcorn10:04 Achieving Milestones and Embracing the Journey12:16 Retail Success and Marketing Strategies16:06 The Art of Retail Relationships17:06 Leveraging Consumer Demand to Influence Retailers17:34 Building a Passionate Fan Base21:14 Innovating in a Saturated Market: The Popcorn Revolution23:41 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Health, Team Building, and Growth- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedBad Monkey Popcorn https://badmonkeypopcorn.com/Dragons Den Walmart https://www.walmart.com/Starbucks https://www.starbucks.com/Red Bull https://www.redbull.com/Disney https://www.disney.com/Cirque du Soleil https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:The Journey of Jaime Schmidt in EntrepreneurshipInside the Scent-Free Revolution with Anie Rouleau, founder and CEO of the Unscented CompanyHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned Media- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). - - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Camille Benmergui, Director of Marketplace at Reitman's Canada Limited, unravels the dynamic world of e-commerce marketplaces. Drawing from her journey leading both fashion brands and third-party marketplaces, Camille offers rich insights on third-party marketplaces, their business models, and advantages they bring to brands. This conversation expands on the concept of online marketplaces, uncovering strategies for success and exploring the potential of niche marketplaces, alongside industry giants.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedReitman's Canada Limitedhttps://www.reitmans.com/en/marketplaceAltitude Sports https://www.altitude-sports.com/Amazonhttps://www.amazon.com/Marketplace/s?k=MarketplaceWalmarthttps://marketplace.walmart.com/Best Buyhttps://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/about/what-is-marketplace/blt0abb2e20522802f2The Bayhttps://www.thebay.com/content/marketplaceFarfetchhttps://www.farfetch.com/Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/eBayhttps://www.ebay.com/Wayfairhttps://sell.wayfair.com/- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:01:14 Understanding Third-Party Marketplaces04:04 Different Types of Online Marketplaces and Their Dynamics05:59 The Benefits of Selling on Marketplaces08:44 Setting Up for Success in Marketplaces19:09 Key Success Factors for Brands in Marketplaces23:35 Choosing the Right Marketplace for Your Brand26:13 Predictions for the Future of Marketplaces- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with Blanka- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more.Thanks for reading The Pop Up Report by Ethan Song! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Jamie Schmidt, the founder of Schmidt's Naturals, shares her entrepreneurial journey from her upbringing to building one of the major players in the natural deodorant industry. She discusses her initial inspiration to create personal care products and shares her experience with selling the company to Unilever. She also provides insights into the nuances of customer retention, the trend of community building and engagement, and the growing opportunity in the Web3 space. The conversation closes with Jamie sharing her thoughts on consumer brands and her passion for the fast-growing sport of pickleball.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedSchmidt's Naturals - https://schmidts.com/Unilever - https://www.unilever.com/BFF - https://www.mybff.com/Athletic Greens - https://drinkag1.com/Procter and Gamble - https://us.pg.com/Club CPG - https://www.clubcpg.com/- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:00:18 Jamie's Early Life and Entrepreneurial Journey02:48 Taking the Leap: From Farmer's Market to Business11:42 The Decision to Sell and Post-Acquisition Reflections15:26 Life After Acquisition: New Ventures and Projects19:55 The Art of Pattern Matching in Investments21:36 The Challenges of Raising Funds for Consumer Brands28:07 The Power of Community Engagement in Branding32:43 The Lessons Learned from Building a Successful Brand36:07 The Future of Crypto in Consumer Brands- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:Inside the Scent-Free Revolution with Anie Rouleau, founder and CEO of the Unscented CompanyHow Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with BlankaPast guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). - - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Launch Pop co-founder Eva Chan shares her journey in the consumer world over the last 10 years, starting with her experience as a designer at Luxe Box, to co-founding  a digital media platform and eventually creating Launch Pop. She emphasizes the crucial role of community building, storytelling, customer engagement, and data in shaping a brand's launch strategy. She also shares her predictions on the future of the consumer space and discusses the unique business model of Launch Pop.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedLaunchpophttps://www.launchpop.com/Luxe Boxhttps://myluxebox.ca/Exact Mediahttps://exactconnections.com/Indiegogohttps://www.indiegogo.com/Shopifyhttps://www.shopify.com/ca- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:00:28 Early Life and Entrepreneurial Journey04:17 Challenges and Triumphs in Business06:41 The Birth of the Unscented Company09:03 Overcoming Market Challenges11:43 The Importance of Unscented Products14:04 The Journey to Wholesale and B2B20:40 An Early Turning Point: Recognition from Goop22:40 Bootstrapping the Business27:02 The Importance of B Corp29:46 The Challenge of Differentiation in a Growing Market31:18 Building a Strong Company Culture- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with BlankaHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and Hostess- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

In this detailed interview, the founder of The Unscented Company, Anie Rouleau, shares her entrepreneurial journey. She shares her early experiences in her family's business, her travels around the world that inspired the concept of her company, the challenges she faced, and the wins she achieved. Anie discusses the environmental mission that is central to her brand's DNS and her goal of making the Unscented Company a leading home and body care brand. She also reflects on the culture she is building within her company and the importance of aligning business goals with personal values.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedUnscented Company https://unscentedco.com/Whole Foodshttps://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/Goophttps://goop.com/Urban Outfittershttps://www.urbanoutfitters.com/en-ca/- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:00:28 Early Life and Entrepreneurial Journey04:17 Challenges and Triumphs in Business06:41 The Birth of the Unscented Company09:03 Overcoming Market Challenges11:43 The Importance of Unscented Products14:04 The Journey to Wholesale and B2B20:40 An Early Turning Point: Recognition from Goop22:40 Bootstrapping the Business27:02 The Importance of B Corp29:46 The Challenge of Differentiation in a Growing Market31:18 Building a Strong Company Culture- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Product Seeding Helped Scent Lab Garner Millions in Earned MediaHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with BlankaHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and Hostess- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

In this episode of The Pop Up Report, guest Mikey Scott, a seasoned marketing leader for iconic brands like Herschel Supply and Kipling at VF Corp, discusses the importance of shaping your customer journey and creating an authentic brand narrative. Mikey reflects on his career trajectory from his roots in action sports to navigating the fashion and lifestyle sectors. The conversation highlights strategies for successful marketing, including the balance between production and distribution, the role of influencers and community engagement, and the significance of storytelling.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedHerschel Supply  https://herschel.ca/VF Brands  https://www.vfc.com/brandsNorda  https://nordarun.com/HOKA  https://www.hoka.com/Salomon  https://www.salomon.com/Ralph Lauren  https://www.ralphlauren.ca/Aime Leon Dore  https://www.aimeleondore.com/Stüssy  https://www.stussy.com/Palace  https://www.palaceskateboards.com/Rapha Cycling  https://www.rapha.cc/SSENSEhttps://www.ssense.com/- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:00:41 Mikey Scott's Journey in Brand Marketing02:28 The State of Marketing04:18 The Evolution of Content in Marketing05:54 Building a Narrative Around your Brand08:12 The Balance Between Production and Distribution24:28 The Art of Storytelling in Large Scale Brands30:22 Final Thoughts and Advice for Marketers- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with Blanka- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song is joined by e-commerce agency founder Phil Tabah of Field Office to discuss all things Shopify. Hear from Phil's experience building and scaling more than 40 Shopify stores for world class brands like Atari and Togethxr. Learn more about the Shopify ecosystem, the role of creative partners and different metrics to consider when setting up your store. This episode also delves into content marketing.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedField OfficeShopifyPangaiaOutdoor VoicesPatagonia- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:05:14 Start with the brand09:40 Custom themes vs prebuilt themes13:09 Understanding Shopify Plus18:00 Avoid these Shopify mistakes20:00 The importance of product pages22:22 Key Shopify metrics28:00 The costs of running a Shopify store- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with Blanka- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song is joined by serial entrepreneur Mike Gettis of Kilne and Endy Mattress to discuss the importance of profitability in a crowded market. Mike shares insights from his journey building and selling Endy Mattress amidst the backdrop of competition from larger players with venture backing. Learn how to stand out from the pack through an unrelenting focus on profitability and product market fit. This episode also delves into digital marketing and mergers and acquisitions.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedEndyClayton Christensen (The Innovator's Dilemma)Peter Thiel (Zero to One)Kilne- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:03:45 The rise of multichannel06:30 Disruption through pricing13:00 Profitable customer acquisition17:30 How to bootstrap21:50 How to sell a business26:55 Winning in a competitive market33:30 Shifting marketing economics- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with Blanka- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song is joined by Caitlin Barrett (Wild Geese Studios) and Julie MacDonell (Haloo) to discuss the importance of brand names and the role of trademark protection. Caitlin and Julie share insights gleaned from decades in brand naming and trademark law respectively. Learn how to identify the perfect name and the risks and rewards of proper trademark protection. This episode also delves into machine learning and generative AI as creative tools.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links Discussed:HalooWild Geese StudiosNaming for EveryoneAmazon IP Accelerator- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:04:55 What makes a good brand name07:46 The role of trademarks10:44 The naming process15:00 New products and trademark extensions18:30 Responding to a cease and desist21:30 What URL should brands use26:00 Protecting your brand globally31:30 The impact of AI on branding- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Slowtide Turned Towels Cool and Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business in the ProcessHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with Blanka- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Manica Blain of Top Knot Ventures discuss the fundraising process and the investor founder relationship. Manica shares lessons learned advising entrepreneurs over the past two decades in investment banking, private equity and venture capital.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:07:23 Top reasons to raise money11:05 Sources of capital13:25 The fundraising process17:02 Valuing your business22:55 Founder traits investors look for27:02 Investor traits founders should look for35:56 Debt financing40:36 Bootstrapping42:46 Post-fundraising- - - - - - - - - - - -Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Jaime Schmidt (Schmidt's Naturals), Griffin Spolansky (Mezcla) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - -Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Personalization Helped Indochino Grow to $1B+ in Cumulative RevenueAcquiring and Growing Multi-Million Dollar Consumer BrandsWhy You Shouldn't Take VC Money, Even When You Can- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more.  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Elliot Begoun of TIG Brands discuss the role of community in brand building. Elliot shares his experience establishing a community of entrepreneurs through the TIG Brands ecosystem. Learn how community can be leveraged as a competitive advantage – from tighter feedback loops with customers to lower acquisition costs through word of mouth marketing. This episode also delves into retail marketing and fundraising.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedTIG BrandsStanford D-SchoolWomen on Boards ProjectJedi CollaborativeJono BaconHirschberg InstituteRegenerative Business- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:01:45 The problem with CPG incubators5:17 The importance of advisors and diversity7:41 Why the tech VC model doesn't work for CPG10:33 The most important rule in running a business12:03 The role of community in brand building13:15 The three types of communities16:43 No, there is no one playbook to success20:00 The role of passion and value21:51 How to identify the right strategy for you27:00 Why product feedback matters30:53 Founder friendly fundraising models- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Margaret Coons (Nuts for Cheese), Sabeena Ladha (Deux), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Fred Campbell (Hooké), Tim and Nick West (Bandit Running), Randy Hetrick (TRX) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:RIND Snacks Journey to 12,000 Doors in Less than 5 YearsHow Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessScaling Blume to $10m through Omnichannel and Community Building- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Margaret Coons of Nuts for Cheese discuss building a brand as a first time founder. Margaret shares her experience bootstrapping Nuts for Cheese from a local farmers market vendor to a disruptive CPG brand available in thousands of stores across North America. This episode also delves into manufacturing and wholesale distribution.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedVeg FestBurt's BeesFarm BoySpins Data- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:07:42 Getting started with distribution10:35 Tackling vertical integration12:00 When to raise capital13:00 Bootstrap with grants15:25 In house manufacturing18:25 Building brand awareness23:00 Competing with incumbents25:37 Building a great team- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Alan Wood (Rally Beer Company). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Fred Campbell (Hooké), Nick West (Bandit Running), Randy Hetrick (TRX) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Active Brands Like Lululemon, On Running and AG1 10X Outperform the MarketHow Personalization Helped Indochino Grow to $1B+ in Cumulative RevenueBurrow: Customer Obsession as a Competitive Advantage- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Dario Phillips of Slowtide discuss building a brand through collaborations. Dario shares how his experience in action sports marketing helped propel his niche towel brand into a category leader. Gain insights from Dario as he shares the opportunities and challenges of marketing a niche business. This episode also delves into wholesale distribution and retail marketing.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedQuicksilverHufStanceHerschelTakashi MurakamiStussy CollabNew Balance Collab- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:2:15 Intro to the action sports industry6:35 Product seeding in action sports12:00 Leveraging experience15:00 Marketing collaborations19:00 Pitching collaborations23:30 Working with wholesalers25:45 Playing with the big retailers28:10 Balancing DTC and wholesale- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Lanny Smith (Actively Black), Drew Green (Indochino), Alan Wood (Rally Beer Company). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Fred Campbell (Hooké), Nick West (Bandit Running), Randy Hetrick (TRX) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Active Brands Like Lululemon, On Running and AG1 10X Outperform the MarketHow Personalization Helped Indochino Grow to $1B+ in Cumulative RevenueBurrow: Customer Obsession as a Competitive Advantage- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Scent Lab founder Ariana Silvestro discuss the importance of product seeding in brand marketing. Ariana shares her journey from retail beauty to health tech startups that eventually led her to found a personalized wellness brand. Discover how Ariana leverages seeding to drive organic growth and personalization to drive retention. This episode also delves into healthcare and retail marketing.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links Discussed:CityMDScent LabsBest of Beauty 2023: Fragrance- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:04:21 Full Commitment to Scent Lab08:42 Commitment, hustle and growth14:12 The role of personalization in beauty17:25 Innovative In-Store Experiences19:54 Product seeding, press and earned media23:37 Driving retention through personalization27:01 Building a team30:35 Rapid fire questions- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Dario Phillips (SlowTide), Fred Campbell (Hooké) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessHow Marlow Tapped TikTok to Acquire Its First CustomersHow to Launch Your Own Beauty Brand with Blanka- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and RIND Snacks Founder Matt Weiss discuss the importance of passion and authenticity in brand marketing. Matt shares the driving forces behind the inception of RIND like combating food waste, promoting healthy snacking, and his own family legacy. Discover how Matt harnesses these values to craft a brand narrative that has RIND scale from a regional to national brand available in over 12,000 doors across the United States. This episode also delves into social media marketing and work life balance.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links Discussed:RIND SnacksNaturally New York- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:4:45 From spectator to participant9:30 The importance of experience15:20 Persimmon chips and food waste20:00 Paying it forward30:00 Retail metrics and performance36:00 Naturally new york and community involvement- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Dario Phillips (SlowTide), Ariana Silverstro (Scent Lab) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - -Additional Episodes you Might Enjoy:How Deux Harnessed TikTok to Challenge Incumbents like Pillsbury, Nestle and HostessScaling Blume to $10m through Omnichannel and Community BuildingTurning Mid-Day Squares Customers into a Community of 450K+ Die-Hard Fans- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Deux Founder Sabeena Ladha discuss the role of content marketing for omnichannel brands. Hear how Deux's authentic content helps drive revenue across both retail and digital channels by leaning into humor and storytelling. Plus, how the Snack Break newsletter scaled to over 40,000 subscribers. This conversation also touches upon wholesale distribution and merchandising.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedMcKinseyM13DeuxSnack Break- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:1:25 Immigrant entrepreneurs and values6:23 Consulting and venture9:06 Opportunities in grocery store aisles12:58 Building a better for you brand14:39 Staying relevant in the face of competition17:06 Building out in the open22:10 How to succeed on Tiktok24:56 How to build a newsletter27:42 Investing in content and measuring success30:28 The importance of an omnichannel strategy34:14 The role of retail in growth39:09 The Future of Deux40:43 Rapid fire- - - - - - - - - - - -Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Dario Phillips (SlowTide), Ariana Silverstro (Scent Lab) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - -Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Marlow Tapped TikTok to Acquire Its First CustomersHow Nala Care Increased Sales by 600% through Word of MouthScaling Blume to $10m through Omnichannel and Community Building- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and RareCircles co-founder Nick D'Urbano take a deep dive into the world of sports and active brands. Learn why sports and activewear brands generally outperform fashion and lifestyle brands over the years. Explore global trends towards more casual health-focused lifestyles. See how brands like Lululemon and Nike capitalize on this trend and the opportunities for new brands to succeed by niching down, innovating, and building stronger relationships with their customers.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedNikeLululemonBanditRaphaTracksmithGymSharkUnder Armour- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:05:05 Most influencers are athletes12:45 Lululemon's influencer strategy before social media17:45 Sell more with less23:00 Under Armour's rise and fall25:00 Why Lululemon will outgrow Adidas- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Dario Phillips (SlowTide), Ariana Silvestro (Scent Lab), Sabeena Ladha (DEUX) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - -Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:Pop Up Deep Dive: Ethan's Omnichannel Framework to Scale ProfitablyPop Up Report: How Personalization Helped Indochino Grow to $1B+ in Cumulative RevenuePop Up Active: How Lanny Smith Went From Career Ending Injury to $30M Brand- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Oren Epstein of Bio Raw discuss the pivotal role of integrity in business. Explore how Oren's social mission influences decisions from product marketing to brand partnerships. Gain insights into building a values-driven community and navigating the competitive Better-For-You CPG category. This episode also covers supply chain, natural ingredients, and influencer marketing.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedOrganic OrenApeelNutbar- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:4:30 Better for you brand marketing8:00 The organic opportunity10:00 Wholesale merchandising12:00 Certifications in CPG14:00 The importance of pillars16:00 Filling knowledge gaps20:00 Community and differentiation24:00 Objection handling27:30 Partnerships- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Dario Phillips (SlowTide), Ariana Silverstro (Scent Lab) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:Turning Mid-Day Squares Customers into a Community of 450K+ Die-Hard FansScaling Blume to $10m through Omnichannel and Community BuildingHow Dose Juice Founders Balance Growing Business and Family- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Nadia Ladak of Marlow discuss the role of digital media in brand marketing. Hear how Marlow leveraged TikTok and other social media channels to build a brand community before ever launching a single product. Gain insights from Nadia as she shares her frameworks and strategies to acquire customers organically. This episode also delves into omnichannel distribution and company culture.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedMarlow TikTokMindful MenstruationPopup at Stacked Market in Toronto- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:3:00 Innovation in period care8:00 Finding customers10:45 Pre-orders14:30 Engaging community16:15 In person events18:25 Omnichannel21:55 Gen Z consumers25:00 Finding mentors- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Dario Phillips (SlowTide), Oren Epstein (Bio Raw) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:Finding Inspiration in Heritage as an Immigrant FounderThe Ultimate Guide to Brand DiscoveryHow Nala Care Increased Sales by 600% through Word of Mouth- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Blanka Brand co-founder Kaylee Astle discuss the future of the beauty and cosmetics industry. Discover the challenges and opportunities emerging from advancements in technology and shifts in consumer behaviors. Gain insights from Kaylee as she shares learnings leveraging technology to optimize and democratize brand building. This episode also delves into celebrity backed brands and supply chain.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedShopifyCosmoprofWalking Away from Big Pharma to Build an Authentic Beauty Brand- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:2:45 Pain points of starting a beauty brand6:20 Blanka elevator pitch9:30 Four customer types12:00 Three elements of a successful brand14:50 Bootstrapping17:00 Private labeling22:15 Sourcing local25:45 Innovation in beauty27:25 Celebrity and community brands- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Nadia Nadak (Marlowe), Oren Epstein (Bio Raw) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How to Drive Positive Impact with Tricia Stevens from Plantd Skincare and LushHow Jolie Skin Scaled to $10M per Employee in Less than Two YearsHow Nala Care Increased Sales by 600% through Word of Mouth- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and RareCircles Co-Founder Nick D'Urbano discuss the most important sales channels in an omnichannel strategy. Explore the role, risks and opportunities associated with the different channels as Ethan shares lessons learned scaling Frank and Oak through retail stores and wholesale relationships. Learn from Ethan and Nick as they share their frameworks and strategies to identify and succeed in the channels that are right for your business. This episode also discusses digital marketing.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedAltitude SportsAmazonWalmartEtsyHow Jolie Skin Scaled to $10M per Employee in Less than Two Years- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:3:45 The role of retail4:35 Digital marketplaces5:25 Identifying your channels7:00 Channel breakdown11:11 Going retail14:45 B2B sales18:00 Margins22:15 Attribution25:00 Building community28:30 The risks of omnichannel31:00 The future of retail32:45 Omnichannel roadmap- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Nadia Nadak (Marlowe), Kaylee Astle (Blanka) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Personalization Helped Indochino Grow to $1B+ in Cumulative RevenueThe Ultimate Guide to Brand DiscoveryWhy You Shouldn't Take VC Money, Even When You Can (Bonus)- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Drew Green of Indochino discuss the role of personalization in the apparel industry. Hear more about the challenges and opportunities in the made to measure space as Drew recounts his experience growing the menswear brand over 1000% since joining as CEO in 2015. Learn more about Drew's experience streamlining Indochino's supply chain and doubling down on retail experiences. This episode also delves into fundraising and brand marketing.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedIndochinoJordanLululemon- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:11:00 Supply chain13:00 Personalization15:00 Turnaround18:00 Retail experience22:00 Differentiation27:30 The Showroom effect31:40 Partnerships and collaboration34:00 Focus and discipline- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Nadia Nadak (Marlowe), Kaylee Astle (Blanka) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:The Ultimate Guide to Brand DiscoveryHow Jolie Skin Scaled to $10M per Employee in Less than Two YearsFrom 0 to 100K in Less than 30 Days- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Tricia Stevens of Plantd Skincare discuss the role of social impact in business. Hear how Tricia's experience scaling social impact initiatives at Lush helped raise over 58 million dollars and turn the brand's Charity Pot product into a bestseller. Gain insights from Tricia and Ethan as they share insights and strategies to maximize the impact of your brands social values and avoid virtue-signaling. This episode also delves into supply chain, retail distribution and the beauty industry.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedLush CosmeticsThe Charity PotPlantd Skincare- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:4:00 Social impact in business10:50 Retail customer experience14:30 Brand community events20:00 Avoid virtue-signaling in marketing23:30 The shift from retail to ecommerce26:30 Content marketing strategies29:15 A new brand and mission32:30 Customer feedback34:45 The importance of relationships- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Drew Green (Indochino), Nadia Nadak (Marlowe), Kaylee Astle (Blanka) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Nala Care Increased Sales by 600% through Word of MouthFinding Inspiration in Heritage as an Immigrant FounderHow Passion Helped the Founder of Collective Arts Stand Out in the Craft Brewery Space- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Matt Johnston of Collective Arts discuss the role of creativity and community in brand marketing. Hear how Matt has turned an engaging creative challenge known as the “Call for Art” into a growth engine that is still going strong over ten years later. Gain insights from Matt and Ethan as they share insights about the importance of community and authenticity in business. This episode also delves into grassroots marketing.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedMooseheadCollective ArtsCollective Arts Costa Rica- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:8:50 The importance of industry experience9:45 Grassroots marketing11:00 Call for arts12:30 Brand events in the beverage industry15:00 Localized sales strategy17:00 Identifying metrics19:45 The Costa Rica test24:45 Reaching your target audience27:30 Building a roadmap- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume) and Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin Co.). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Tricia Stevens (Plantd Skincare), Drew Green (Indochino) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:Walking Away from Big Pharma to Build an Authentic Beauty BrandMid-Day Squares: Building the Next Great CPG Brand through Authentic ContentBurrow: Customer Obsession as a Competitive Advantage- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Lisa Mattam of Sahajan discuss merging science and heritage in the world of wellness. Lisa shares her journey of making the bold transition from a thriving career in pharmaceuticals to entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights into this transformative decision. Discover how to build and market a brand steeped in ancient traditions through a contemporary lens backed by science. This episode also delves into work life balance.Links DiscussedFrank and OakSahajanWell.caShow Notes:5:00 Walking away from big pharma8:40 Starting Sahajan12:00 Ayurveda and wellness18:00 The illusion of metrics22:25 PR for beauty brands27:00 The risks of outside capital32:35 Product development36:15 Balancing work and life41:35 Immigrant background44:45 The role of communityPast guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Matt Johnston (Collective Arts Brewing), Drew Green (Indochino), Tricia Stevens (Plantd Skincare) and many more.Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Customer Loyalty Helps Build Cult Like Brands (Bonus)How Nala Care Increased Sales by 600% through Word of MouthBurrow: Customer Obsession as a Competitive AdvantageThe Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Rami Helali of KOTN discuss the experience of starting a business as an immigrant in North America. Hear how multiculturalism and authenticity has both fuelled and inspired Rami's entrepreneurial journey. Gain insights on how to effectively integrate sustainability and social values into your business. This episode also delves into supply chain and retail distribution.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.Links DiscussedKOTNB CorporationShow Notes:3:40 The immigrant experience6:35 The benefits of a naive perspective10:00 Finding inspiration in heritage17:30 Marketing sustainability23:00 Investing in communities28:50 Building a strong team37:00 The fashion industry40:00 The business of brands43:30 Going retail47:40 Business valuesPast guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Lisa Mattam (Sahajan), Drew Green (Indochinio), Matt Johnston (Collective Arts) and many more.Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Nala Care Increased Sales by 600% through Word of MouthHow Lanny Smith Went From Career Ending Injury to $30M BrandHow Dose Juice Founders Balance Growing Business and FamilyThe Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Genevieve Brousseau Provencher of Dose Juice discuss work life balance and diversity in the workplace. Explore the benefits and challenges of starting a business with your life partner. Gain valuable insights from Gen on how to effectively balance a growing business with a growing family. This episode also delves into product marketing, and omni-channel distribution.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - -Links Discussed:Frank and OakDose Juice- - - - - - - - - - - -Show Notes:8:15 Building community9:30 Sampling products15:00 Channel specific customers19:15 Going into retail24:00 Product marketing31:00 Staying focused35:25 Women in business40:30 Balancing family44:00 Building with a romantic partner- - - - - - - - - - - -Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin).Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Lisa Mattam (Sahajan), Drew Green (Indochinio), Rami Helali (KOTN) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - -Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:How Nala Care Increased Sales by 600% through Word of MouthHow Lanny Smith Went From Career Ending Injury to $30M BrandHow Jolie Skin Scaled to $10M per Employee in Less than Two Years- - - - - - - - - - - -The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Aubrie Pagano of Alpaca VC discuss the role of brand discovery in business. Discover the toolkit and strategies that marketers use to acquire customers and uncover the hurdles posed by rapid technological shifts. Gain insights from Aubrie as she lends her expertise to a comprehensive exploration of Alpaca's latest Brand Discovery Report. This episode also delves into AI and venture capital.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.DISCLAIMER: Please note that Alpaca Ventures is an investor in RareCircles Inc.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedFrank and OakBow and Drape AcquisitionX FactorBrand Discovery Report by Alpaca VCAmazonBuffalo Market- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:6:22 Personalized products9:27 Venture capital14:37 Brand discovery17:07 Privacy and tracking18:37 Starting a brand24:22 Omni-channel distribution26:57 Ecommerce by industry28:52 AI for brands32:52 Affiliate marketing38:27 The new playbook- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Stephen Kuhl (Burrow), Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Alan Wood (Rally Beer Company). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Rami Helali (Kotn), Genevieve Brousseau Provencher (Dose Juice), Tricia Stevens (Plantd Skincare) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:E5 - Why You Shouldn't Take VC Money, Even When You Can (Bonus)E6 - Scaling Blume to $10m through Omnichannel and Community BuildingE10 - How Lanny Smith Went From Career Ending Injury to $30M Brand- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and RareCircles Co-Founder Nick D'Urbano discuss the shifting dynamics of loyalty and retention in business. Explore the nuanced facets of customer loyalty, different examples, metrics and strategies to build loyalty. Gain insights from Nick and Ethan as they share learnings from personal experience and research at RareCircles. This episode also delves into ecommerce, customer feedback and profitability.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedRapha Cycling ClubBirkinLVMHStarbucks RewardsStarbucks OdysseyHodinkeeApple Store Experience- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:3:13 Defining loyalty7:53 The problem with loyalty10:23 Loyalty points13:43 Subscriptions and loyalty19:13 Some examples of loyalty25:03 The role of retail in loyalty27:58 Building loyalty30:33 Wholesale32:13 Customer data34:13 Loyalty framework- - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Karen Danudjaja (Blume), Ryan Babenzien (Jolie Skin). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Tricia Stevens (Plantd Skincare), Rami Helali (Kotn), Genevieve Brousseau Provencher (Dose Juice), and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:E5 - Why You Shouldn't Take VC Money, Even When You Can (Bonus)E6 - Scaling Blume to $10m through Omnichannel and Community BuildingE10 - How Lanny Smith Went From Career Ending Injury to $30M Brand- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com

Ethan Song and Ryan Babenzien of Jolie Skin discuss the importance of profitability in business. Hear how DTC has evolved over the last decade from a business model to a distribution channel. Gain insights from Ryan as he shares his experience scaling brands without sacrificing profitability. This episode also delves into supply chain, venture capital and remote work.Subscribe to our Substack and YouTube for more engaging content and thoughtful analysis.- - - - - - - - - - - - Links DiscussedJolie SkinGreats- - - - - - - - - - - - Show Notes:9:13 Sales channels14:33 Identifying a market opportunity17:03 Launching Jolie19:53 The advantages of experience26:23 Lean overhead30:03 The importance of saying no34:18 Content strategy38:33 Retention41:33 Getting profitable quickly46:48 True disruption - - - - - - - - - - - - Past guests on the Pop Up Report include Stephen Kuhl (Burrow), Jake Karls (Mid-Day Squares), Alan Wood (Rally Beer Company). Stay tuned for new episodes from upcoming guests including Rami Helali (Kotn), Genevieve Brousseau Provencher (Dose Juice), Tricia Stevens (Plantd Skincare) and many more.- - - - - - - - - - - - Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy:E5 - Why You Shouldn't Take VC Money, Even When You Can (Bonus)E6 - Scaling Blume to $10m through Omnichannel and Community BuildingE10 - How Lanny Smith Went From Career Ending Injury to $30M Brand- - - - - - - - - - - - The Pop Up Report interviews DTC and CPG founders to uncover how they fostered and scaled their communities to create profitable businesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the tools, tactics and retention strategies that build true customer loyalty.Subscribe to the Pop Up Report on Substack or YouTube for more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepopupreport.com