The Story of a Brand

In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Kemp, the passionate owner of Bare Kind, a brand of bamboo socks that's on a mission to save endangered animals one step at a time.  What began with a desire to create a feel-good product has grown into a purpose-driven business that partners with over 30 animal charities, donates 10% of profits, and makes every sock design count. What I love about this conversation is how grounded Andrew is in the belief that consumer products can—and should—do good. We talk about sustainability, giving back, building a business in the UK and beyond, and why even something as simple as socks can become a platform for impact and joy. If you're building a brand or just want to shop more consciously, this one's for you. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:   * How animal welfare and e-commerce collided to spark Bare Kind   * The surprising power of giving 10% to charity and doing it transparently   * Why bamboo is better for people, the planet, and your feet   * How Bare Kind designs socks that start conversations and build community   * Lessons on scaling a mission-driven brand without losing its soul   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and discover how a pair of socks can help save the planet—one animal and one customer at a time. Whether you're an animal lover, sustainability enthusiast, or brand builder, Andrew's story will leave you inspired. For more on Bare Kind, visit:  https://barekind.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and for your first 30 days, it's just $1. Get real answers and skip the trial and error.

In this episode, I sit down with Isaac LeKach and Lillian Shalom, the creative and entrepreneurial duo behind Flower Shop Perfumes Co., a brand that's blurring the lines between scent, art, and emotion.  What struck me most about our conversation is how personal their approach to fragrance is. For them, perfume isn't just about smelling good; it's about storytelling, self-expression, and creating a deeply emotional, almost spiritual experience for the wearer. We talk about everything from product innovation to packaging inspired by sculpture, as well as what it's like to build a fragrance brand with no roadmap, just instinct and intention.   Whether it's through bold scent choices or unconventional bottle design, Flower Shop is rewriting the rules of what a fragrance brand can be—and why the industry needed a shake-up. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:   * How a chance conversation led to the birth of a fragrance line rooted in nostalgia and artistry   * Why the brand isn't chasing mass appeal—and why that's a strength   * Lillian's take on perfume as wearable sculpture and emotional trigger   * The role of risk-taking and gut decisions in building a disruptive brand   * Why authenticity and creative freedom are their North Star   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and explore how Flower Shop Perfumes Co. is redefining modern fragrance—one story, one scent, one sculpture at a time. If you're a fan of art, beauty, or brand building, you'll find this episode rich with inspiration. For more on Parfum Cirque Du Soleil, visit: https://parfumcirquedusoleil.com/ For more on Flower Shop Perfumes Co., visit: https://flower-shop.co/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above.    1 Commerce: https://1-commerce.com/story-of-a-brand Scaling a DTC brand gets harder the bigger you grow, especially when you're stuck selling on just one channel.  While you're focused on day-to-day ops, your competitors are unlocking marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and even retail shelf space—and capturing customers you're missing. That's where 1-Commerce comes in.  They help high-growth brands expand beyond their sites, handle end-to-end fulfillment, and scale through a revenue-share model that means they only win when you do.  As a Story of a Brand listener, you'll get one month of free storage and a strategy session with their CEO, Eric Kasper. 

In this episode, I sit down with Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg, the visionary duo behind Fresh, one of the most iconic beauty brands of the last three decades.  What began as a small apothecary shop in Boston evolved into a global brand renowned for blending modern skincare with timeless rituals. Lev and Alina share their journey with such openness—from selling artisanal soaps wrapped in hand-stamped paper to pioneering innovations like soy face cleanser and sugar lip treatments. What makes this conversation so special is how deeply they value storytelling, authenticity, and emotional connection. Fresh wasn't built on trends, it was built on meaning. We explore how they followed their instincts, stayed rooted in their shared values, and created products that feel personal, poetic, and transformative. If you've ever used Fresh, you'll love hearing how it all began. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:   * Why Fresh was never just about skincare—it was about experiences   * How inspiration from food, travel, and culture shaped iconic products   * The emotional moment they realized Fresh had outgrown their tiny store   * Why building a brand rooted in meaning creates a lasting connection   * How they stayed true to themselves, even after joining LVMH   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover the heart, soul, and magic behind a brand that redefined modern beauty. Whether you're a founder, a beauty lover, or someone who appreciates thoughtful entrepreneurship, this one is pure inspiration. For more on Fresh, visit: https://www.fresh.com/us/home If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

In this episode, I sit down with Kyle Landry, PhD, a scientist-turned-entrepreneur who's bringing literal space-age technology to the skincare world.  As the President and Co-founder of Delavie Sciences, Kyle shares how a partnership with NASA led to the discovery of a one-of-a-kind extremophile—an organism found on the outside of the International Space Station—that now powers their cutting-edge skincare line. This isn't just about beauty—it's about real science, real function, and rethinking how we protect our skin from the environment. What I found so refreshing about this conversation is Kyle's commitment to truth, transparency, and rigor in a category often filled with hype. From product formulation to environmental defense, Delavie is creating skincare that's built to perform and built to last. If you've ever wondered what happens when biotech meets beauty, this episode will blow your mind. Here are a few key takeaways from the interview: * How NASA, space research, and extremophiles led to a skincare breakthrough   * What makes the Bacillus lysate ingredient truly different, and clinically backed   * Why SPF and environmental exposure are only part of the skin damage story   * How Delavie is setting a new standard in cosmetic science and consumer trust   * The difference between making something marketable and making something that works   Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and explore how science, innovation, and skin health are coming together in a way the beauty industry has never seen before. This one's for the curious, the skincare skeptics, and the science lovers. For more on Delavie Sciences, visit: https://www.delaviesciences.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners: https://revivemp.com/ REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners helps better-for-you CPG brands win on Amazon with niche expertise, founder-led strategy, and a true partnership model. Built by a CPG founder with a successful exit, REViVE only works with brands they believe in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.

In this episode, I sit down with Darren Litt, the founder of Hiya Health, a mission-driven kids' wellness brand that's reimagining what it means to raise healthy children.  Darren shares how a single disappointing Amazon order led him down a path of obsession with better ingredients, smarter packaging, and more meaningful health experiences for kids and families. What started with taste tests from his daughters turned into a national movement to clean up the children's supplement space. What I love most about this conversation is how Darren and his team go beyond just building a better vitamin—they're building moments between parents and kids. From personalized bottles to thoughtful monthly games, Hiya makes health a shared experience.  We also discuss entrepreneurship, scaling with intention, and what it takes to build a profitable, bootstrapped brand that recently sold a majority stake for $260 million, all while staying true to its mission. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How a gummy vitamin full of sugar sparked the idea for Hiya Health * Why every Hiya product is obsessively formulated with both kids and parents in mind * The secret to building a best-in-class DTC subscription business with no outside capital * How experiences—like decorating bottles and sending monthly games—deepen brand loyalty * Why authenticity, not gimmicks, is the key to long-term consumer trust Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover how Hiya Health is creating healthier habits and happier moments—one chewable at a time. If you're a parent, founder, or just someone who believes in thoughtful innovation, this one's for you. For more on Hiya Health, visit:  https://hiyahealth.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and for your first 30 days, it's just $1. Get real answers and skip the trial and error.

In this episode, I sit down with Lindsey Carter, the Founder and CEO of SET ACTIVE, a brand that has reshaped how women experience athleisure—not just in terms of function, but also in terms of feeling.  Lindsey shares her raw and powerful journey, from bootstrapping the brand at 25 with zero funding to building a movement rooted in authenticity, storytelling, and unmatched community connection. Her story is one of resilience, vision, and redefining what it means to be “active.” What I love about this conversation is how candid Lindsey is about the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship—what it truly takes to persevere when everything feels uncertain.  We explore the magic of creating products that resonate on an emotional level, how community drives every decision, and what it's like to grow a company without paid ads, outside investment, or compromise. Here are some key takeaways from the episode: * How Lindsey bootstrapped a brand that's done millions in sales with zero paid media   * The power of building for the “everyday girl” who just wants to feel confident and comfortable   * Why community isn't just a buzzword—it's the foundation of everything SET ACTIVE does   * The real-life challenges of being a solo founder—and how Lindsey reframes hard days   * What's next for the brand: new fabrics, potential men's drops, and continued innovation   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to how Lindsey Carter is rewriting the rules of modern activewear—one intentional, community-led decision at a time. Whether you're a founder, fashion lover, or someone seeking inspiration, this story will move you. For more on SET ACTIVE, visit:  https://setactive.co/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Cornish, the spirited co-founder and “Head Bandit” behind The Froot Thief—a fruit snack brand that's turning heads and winning lunchboxes.  Jonathan's story is one of grit, gratitude, and big flavor. We discuss how a family-run business gave him and his brother their first break over 25 years ago, and how that act of faith continues to shape their approach today. That foundation—combined with deep experience in retail and manufacturing—set the stage for a snack brand that's anything but ordinary. We dive into how The Froot Thief went from a bold idea during lockdown to landing on Costco shelves nationwide. What I love about this episode is how honest Jonathan is about the risks, the emotional journey, and the fulfillment that comes from building something you truly believe in.  From production lines in South Africa to school lunches in the U.S., this is a story about purpose, play, and the power of trusting your instincts. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How a simple act of belief launched a 25-year entrepreneurial journey   * The Costco call that changed everything: “I'll take every strand you can make”   * Creating a clean-label fruit snack that's as fun as it is nutritious   * Navigating tariffs, manufacturing, and the realities of scaling internationally   * Why “fruit spaghetti” and 100 inches of fun are stealing the snack spotlight   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover why this snack brand is not only worth trying but also worth supporting. If you've got kids, love fruit, or just want a great founder story, you won't want to miss this one. For more on The Froot Thief, visit: https://www.frootthief.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

In this episode, I had a powerful and insightful conversation with Eric Kasper, the founder of 1 Commerce. Eric isn't just building another ecommerce platform—he's building from the ground up based on hard-won experience, past failures, and deep empathy for the challenges founders face.  We discussed how losing everything gave him clarity, how he rebuilt with intention, and how that journey became the foundation of a platform that helps brands scale across channels with real support. What stood out to me most is Eric's unique mix of humility and depth. He's not here to sell a system—he's here to partner with founders, guide them through complexity, and help them make smarter decisions.  Whether you're overwhelmed by Amazon, unsure about Walmart, or just trying to manage profitability across retail and DTC, this episode is packed with real talk, proven advice, and actionable strategies. Here are some key moments from the episode: * How Eric scaled from a garage to nearly $100M—and what broke it all apart   * Why the way you build matters more than what you build   * The #1 mistake brands make when entering marketplaces (and how to avoid it)   * A real-world case study: going from a $10M Shopify store to 8 retailers and 60% growth   * How 1 Commerce blends software + strategy to help founders sleep better at night   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and hear how one founder's experience is now empowering hundreds of others. Whether you're a DTC brand, B2B company, or omnichannel operator, there's something in here for you. For more on 1 Commercet, visit: https://1-commerce.com/story-of-a-brand If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors:   1 Commerce: https://1-commerce.com/story-of-a-brand Scaling a DTC brand becomes harder the bigger you grow, especially when you're limited to selling on just one channel.  While you're focused on day-to-day ops, your competitors are unlocking marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and even retail shelf space—and capturing customers you're missing. That's where 1-Commerce comes in.  They help high-growth brands expand beyond their sites, handle end-to-end fulfillment, and scale through a revenue-share model that means they only win when you do.  As a Story of a Brand listener, you'll get one month of free storage and a strategy session with their CEO, Eric Kasper. Visit the link above.

What happens when you mix a deep love for small business with the drive to shake up an outdated industry? You get BloomNation.  In this episode, I sat down with Farbod Shoraka, Co-founder & CEO of BloomNation, to talk about how a few powerful insights—and one unforgettable lunch—led to the creation of a platform that empowers thousands of florists and small business owners across the U.S. We delve into how BloomNation evolved from a simple idea into a nationwide software solution that enables independent florists to thrive in the e-commerce landscape. Farbod opens up about his personal motivations, lessons learned during the pandemic, and how his company is helping preserve the soul of small businesses while building for long-term resilience. Here are some key moments from the episode: * How Farbod's father's unwavering support helped him leave finance to launch his first startup   * The early insight that disrupted the floral industry—and why removing the middleman mattered   * How the pandemic became a tipping point for small business digital adoption   * The strategy behind BloomNation's evolution into Promenade and their recent UK expansion   * Farbod's no-BS advice for founders: “Don't listen to anyone. Carve your own path.”   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and hear how one founder is creating meaningful impact—one bouquet, one order, and one small business at a time. For more on BloomNation, visit: https://www.bloomnation.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

As someone who has worked with numerous consumer brands, I can confidently say that Little Spoon is one of those companies that truly understands today's modern parent.  I had the joy of sitting down with Angela Vranich and Ben Lewis, co-founders of Little Spoon, and discussing how they're not just reinventing kids' nutrition, but also rethinking how to meet families where they are—with convenience, trust, and transparency. In this episode, we delve into how Little Spoon evolved from a fresh baby food concept into a comprehensive platform that supports children through every life stage. Ben and Angela opened up about the power of content and community, why innovation is never one-size-fits-all, and how they've balanced growth with a clear-eyed commitment to mission-driven impact. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How Little Spoon used DTC to unlock deep consumer insights—and turn them into innovation   * The role of education and content in building trust with millennial parents   * Expanding product lines while staying laser-focused on ingredient quality   * Why every piece of the business, from packaging to partnerships, is built for scale and emotional connection   * Their perspective on what it takes to truly grow with your customer, not just sell to them   Join me, Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, in listening to the episode to learn how this duo is rewriting the playbook on family nutrition—and what every brand can learn from their approach. For more on Little Spoon, visit:  https://www.littlespoon.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and for your first 30 days, it's just $1. Get real answers and skip the trial and error.

When it comes to building a better-for-you beverage brand, it's easy to think it's all about the product. But as Kayvon Jahanbakhsh, co-founder of Halfday Iced Tea, shares in this episode, building a brand people actually love is just as much about emotional connection, persistence, and timing.  This conversation is packed with insights into what it truly takes to break through in a crowded category, especially when you're on a mission to reintroduce Americans to a nostalgic drink with a gut-healthy twist. Kayvon opens up about how he and his co-founder turned a personal health journey into a nationally recognized brand stocked in over 7,000 stores. We talk about retail wins, scrappy marketing tactics, and why doing the "unscalable things" early on helped them earn shelf space and consumer trust.  Whether you're a fellow founder, a marketer in the trenches, or just someone who loves a good iced tea comeback story—this one's for you. Here are some key moments from the episode: * How a ulcerative colitis diagnosis led Kayvon to reimagine iced tea with prebiotic fiber and better ingredients * Why consumer education and playful branding were critical to getting people to trust a functional beverage * The turning point when they went from selling out of a garage to landing national retail distribution * Why Kayvon believes “velocity is king” when it comes to scaling at retail * His thoughts on brand-building in an era where transparency and taste both matter more than ever Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and get inspired by how Kayvon and the Halfday team are reviving a beloved drink for a new generation, with purpose, flavor, and hustle at the core. For more on Halfday Ice Tea visit:  https://drinkhalfday.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners: https://revivemp.com/ REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners helps better-for-you CPG brands win on Amazon with niche expertise, founder-led strategy, and a true partnership model. Built by a CPG founder with a successful exit, REViVE only works with brands they believe in. Curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.

Every now and then, you come across a founder story that's both heartfelt and hustle-packed—this is one of those.  In this episode, I sit down with Mike Lombardo, co-founder of Halfday Iced Tea, a brand that's redefining what iced tea can be. We talk about everything from starting the company out of a college dorm room to turning a personal health journey into a functional beverage brand that's now on the shelves of Whole Foods, Sprouts, and more. Mike shares how Halfday was built on a foundation of relentless iteration, a belief in gut health, and a flavor-first approach that makes it easy for consumers to get behind. With a mission rooted in Kayvon's fight with ulcerative colitis, Halfday has stayed true to one thing: delivering great-tasting iced tea that's actually good for your gut.  This episode is a powerful look at entrepreneurship, adaptability, and building a brand that truly resonates. In this episode, you'll hear: * How a college capstone project turned into a national beverage brand * Why product iteration—down to the can size—was key to Halfday's success * What it took to land their first retail buyer without even having samples * The story behind Halfday's Good Day Prebiotic Blend and why it matters * How Mike and Kayvon think about innovation, scaling retail, and brand storytelling Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and learn how Halfday is changing the iced tea category—one can at a time. Whether you're a brand builder, a gut health geek, or just love a good founder story, this one's worth a sip. For more on Halfday Ice Tea visit:  https://drinkhalfday.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

I've interviewed a lot of founders, but few with stories as rich and enduring as today's guest. In this episode, I sit down with Pepper Baumer, President & CEO of Crystal Hot Sauce, a product of Baumer Foods. We explore how this iconic, family-owned brand has been flavoring kitchens for over a century, surviving everything from World War II to Hurricane Katrina to global supply chain meltdowns. It's a powerful reminder of what it means to adapt, persevere, and keep a legacy alive. Pepper shares how his grandfather flipped a snowball syrup company into a global hot sauce business, how his aunt Ella Brennan instilled business smarts in him one Wall Street Journal article at a time, and what he's doing to bring the brand into its next era. From private label to industrial partnerships, from NOLA roots to nationwide shelves—this is one flavorful story you don't want to miss. In this episode, you'll hear: * The origin story of Crystal Hot Sauce and how a hidden recipe changed everything   * What Pepper learned from his aunt Ella Brennan that still guides him today   * How Baumer Foods survived Hurricane Katrina and rebuilt their business   * Why investing in manufacturing and industrial partnerships is key to the future   * The brand's flavor-first philosophy: “We make good food taste great”   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and discover how a century-old hot sauce brand continues to evolve with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of heat. For more on Baumer Foods, visit: https://crystalhotsauce.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners: https://revivemp.com/ REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners helps better-for-you CPG brands win on Amazon with niche expertise, founder-led strategy, and a true partnership model. Built by a CPG founder with a successful exit, REViVE only works with brands they believe in. Curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.

I always say some of the most innovative ideas come from personal experiences, and Nicole Smith's story is proof. What started as a meaningful moment in Paris with her best friend evolved into Flytographer, a global platform that helps people capture unforgettable travel memories through professional photography. Nicole didn't just build a business; she created a movement rooted in human connection, storytelling, and joy. In this episode, Founder & CEO Nicole Smith shares her journey from a corporate career at Microsoft to launching a two-sided marketplace with no startup experience—all while raising two young kids.  We discuss the ups and downs and how conscious leadership and resilience enabled her to lead with clarity, even during the pandemic. If you've ever had a spark of an idea and wondered, “Could this be something?”—this episode is for you. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How a trip to Paris inspired the creation of Flytographer * The moment Nicole decided to leave corporate life and go all in on her vision * Navigating a global shutdown and rebuilding with profitability and purpose * Why community, trust, and storytelling are at the heart of the Flytographer model * Nicole's personal mission to get moms (and all caregivers) back into the photo Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and hear how Nicole turned a simple idea into a global celebration of memory, connection, and reinvention. For more on Flytographer, visit:  https://www.flytographer.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and for your first 30 days, it's just $1. Get real answers and skip the trial and error.

Every once in a while, you come across a story so driven by purpose and heart that you can feel it in every word, and that's exactly how I felt talking to the co-founders of ByHeart.  In this episode, Ron Belldegrun and Mia Funt, Co-founders of ByHeart, guide us through their remarkable journey to reinvent infant formula from the ground up, driven by science, transparency, and a deep conviction that parents deserve better options. From building their manufacturing facility to conducting one of the most extensive clinical trials in over 25 years, their story isn't just about disrupting a category; it's about raising the standard for an entire industry. If you're a founder, parent, or just someone passionate about what modern CPG brands can stand for, this conversation is packed with inspiration and actionable wisdom. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * Why building their manufacturing was a necessity, not a strategy * The science and transparency behind their patented, breast milk-inspired formula * How community, parent feedback, and clinical trials fueled meaningful innovation * What it takes to challenge 100 years of industry status quo * Why ByHeart believes the future of infant nutrition is about access, evidence, and trust Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode to learn how this team built one of the most important—and personal—brands in modern consumer health. For more on ByHeart, visit: https://byheart.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Showa rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more.    1 Commerce: https://1-commerce.com/story-of-a-brand Scaling a DTC brand gets harder the bigger you grow, especially when you're stuck selling on just one channel.  While you're focused on day-to-day ops, your competitors are unlocking marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and even retail shelf space—and capturing customers you're missing. That's where 1-Commerce comes in.  They help high-growth brands expand beyond their sites, handle end-to-end fulfillment, and scale through a revenue-share model that means they only win when you do.  As a Story of a Brand listener, you'll get one month of free storage and a strategy session with their CEO, Eric Kasper.  https://1-commerce.com/story-of-a-brand

I always love speaking with founders who are guided by purpose, and Reham Essa's story is a perfect example.  After years as a pharmacist, Founder and CEO Reham set out to create a skincare brand that prioritizes health, simplicity, and integrity over hype. EssenZen is about more than beauty; it's about reclaiming what skincare should be: minimal, functional, and rooted in science. In this episode, Reham shares how her background in pharmacy led to a deeper understanding of skin and a passion for product formulation.  We dive into what it means to create a brand from scratch, challenge industry norms, and speak directly to the conscious consumer. If you're building something purpose-driven or just tired of 12-step skincare routines, you'll want to hear this. Here are a few key moments from our conversation: * Why Reham left pharmacy to pursue her purpose through skincare   * How EssenZen redefines beauty with minimalist, science-backed products   * The challenges and wins of building a bootstrapped brand from the ground up   * Why fewer ingredients and clear messaging resonate in a noisy market   * The importance of staying true to your values—even when growth is slow   Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and discover how Reham is rewriting the skincare story—one intentional product at a time. For more on EssenZen, visit:  https://essenzenbotanicals.com/   For more on Radixir, visit:  https://radixir.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

Something is compelling about a leader who brings both sharp commercial instincts and deep empathy to the table, and that's precisely what I found in my conversation with Jeanelle Teves.  As Chief Commercial Officer at Bugaboo, she's not just driving growth; she's redefining what it means to build a global lifestyle brand rooted in purpose, innovation, and real human connection. In this episode, we talk about what it takes to evolve a premium product line while staying close to the needs of modern families.   Jeanelle shares her insights on balancing DTC with retail, leading with authenticity, building globally relevant strategies, and why empathy belongs at the core of every great product and team culture. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * Why performance marketing is powerful—but brand is what builds long-term loyalty   * How Bugaboo leads with sustainable product design that's meant to be repaired and reused   * The importance of retail and DTC as complementary, not competitive, channels   * How global expansion succeeds when local nuance meets consistent brand identity   * What it means to lead with authenticity and create space for others to thrive   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode to hear how Bugaboo is helping shape the future of premium CPG through innovation, purpose, and people-first leadership. For more on Bugaboo, visit: https://www.bugaboo.com/us-en If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning.    1 Commerce: https://1-commerce.com/story-of-a-brand Scaling a DTC brand gets harder the bigger you grow, especially when you're stuck selling on just one channel.  While you're focused on day-to-day ops, your competitors are unlocking marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and even retail shelf space—and capturing customers you're missing. That's where 1-Commerce comes in.  They help high-growth brands expand beyond their sites, handle end-to-end fulfillment, and scale through a revenue-share model that means they only win when you do.  OFFER: As a Story of a Brand listener, you'll get one month of free storage and a strategy session with their CEO, Eric Kasper. 

As people who are passionate about purpose-driven CPG brands, we couldn't wait to sit down with Jennifer Jorgensen, CEO of Back to Nature.  She's not just leading the charge at Back to Nature she's revitalizing a legacy brand for today's conscious consumer.  With a powerful blend of empathy, strategy, and bold decision-making, Jennifer demonstrates what it means to lead with both heart and business acumen. In this episode, Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, unpacks the transformation of Back to Nature as it reclaims its roots in plant-based simplicity and moves toward a cleaner, more intentional product line.  From managing reformulation without alienating loyal customers to redefining what “better-for-you” actually means, Jennifer shares the challenges and breakthroughs of modernizing a beloved brand while staying true to its mission. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How Jennifer approached reformulating legacy products while maintaining consumer trust   * The strategy behind bringing purpose and profitability together in a crowded CPG landscape   * Lessons on leadership, team culture, and empowering people through change   * Why Back to Nature is leaning into its plant-based identity—and what that means for product innovation   * The importance of transparency, storytelling, and staying grounded in values during brand evolution   Join us in listening to the episode to learn how one leader is thoughtfully scaling a heritage brand with modern relevance and building a stronger future for the next generation of better-for-you foods. For more on Back to Nature, visit: https://www.backtonaturefoods.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave  The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners: https://revivemp.com/ REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners helps better-for-you CPG brands win on Amazon with niche expertise, founder-led strategy, and a true partnership model. Built by a CPG founder with a successful exit, REViVE only works with brands they believe in. Curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.

I had an absolute blast chatting with Erica Groussman, the bold and fearless founder of TRUBAR. Erica's energy is infectious, and her story is a masterclass in trusting your gut, listening to your body, and never settling for the status quo.  What started as a personal journey to clean up her own nutrition turned into a full-on movement—and a fast-growing brand that's flipping the protein bar category on its head. TRUBAR isn't just another snack—it's a delicious, clean-label product with a powerful “no BS” message at the center. In our conversation, Erica opens up about the highs and lows of building a better-for-you brand, how she broke into mass retail on her own terms, and what it really takes to stand out on shelf and online in a crowded CPG space. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:   * Why Erica believes "permissionless entry" is the key to innovation   * How she went from her kitchen to national retail distribution   * The truth about navigating manufacturing, scaling, and keeping your standards   * Why brand voice and bold packaging are non-negotiables in today's market   * The importance of staying raw, real, and mission-driven—no matter the pressure   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and hear how Erica turned a personal health need into a fearless brand that's changing the snack game—one unapologetically clean bite at a time. For more on TRUBAR, visit: https://www.trubar.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

When I sat down with John Roman, it was clear this wasn't just a story about subscription boxes—it was a story about grit, evolution, and building a brand that speaks directly to a passionate community.  As the Co-founder & CEO of BattlBox, John has transformed a niche outdoor and survival subscription into a DTC powerhouse, boasting millions of YouTube views and a hit Netflix show to boot. But behind the curated gear and rugged packaging is a founder who deeply understands performance marketing, customer acquisition, and what it takes to scale through constant change. In this episode, John opens up about lessons learned, bets that paid off, and how BattlBox continues to thrive by listening to its community and leaning into its identity. Here are a few key moments from our conversation: * The “aha moment” that turned a hobby into a full-fledged business    * How a loyal Facebook group became a strategic growth lever   * Why BattlBox scaled back from 30+ employees to a lean, high-performing team   * The story behind the Netflix show and its unexpected impact   * How John approaches data, storytelling, and building real brand loyalty   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode to hear how one brand embraced its niche, built a community of superfans, and turned survival gear into a DTC success story. For more on BattlBox, visit:  https://www.battlbox.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and for your first 30 days, it's just $1. Get real answers and skip the trial and error. Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

When I sat down with Eric Dominijanni, the founder of FIOR Scotch, I knew this was going to be more than a conversation about spirits; it was going to be about reinvention.  Eric's background in beverage alcohol and his vision to bring a new type of scotch to a new kind of drinker made this a compelling deep dive into brand building, innovation, and identity. FIOR isn't trying to be your grandfather's scotch. It's a bold, flavorful, and inclusive brand crafted for those who might have never considered sipping scotch before. Eric shares how he's breaking category conventions, embracing American culture while honoring Scotch tradition, and creating a brand that welcomes the “new wave” consumer.  Whether you're a spirits enthusiast, a founder, or someone fascinated by modern brand storytelling, you'll find something inspiring in Eric's journey. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * Why Eric calls FIOR a “cultural remix” of old-world Scotch and modern American vibes   * The branding decisions that make FIOR feel more like streetwear than traditional spirits    * How flavor, accessibility, and breaking rules are central to winning over a younger, more diverse audience    * What Eric learned launching a premium alcohol brand without relying on the “usual suspects” of Scotch marketing    * His candid reflections on risk, resilience, and trusting your gut as a first-time founder   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and hear how Eric is shaking up one of the most traditional categories in spirits—and why the future of Scotch might just look a little different than the past. For more on FIOR Scotch, visit:  https://www.fiorscotch.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

What does it take to elevate a simple, everyday product into a beloved premium brand?  In this episode, I sat down with Lindsey Johnson, Co-Founder & CEO of Weezie Towels, to talk about how she's redefining the towel category with quality, intentionality, and customer delight at the core. Lindsey shares how Weezie was built from scratch with a focus on product excellence, brand storytelling, and community feedback. From launching with just a few SKUs to expanding into custom monograms and thoughtful gifting experiences, Weezie's journey is packed with lessons on scaling direct-to-consumer (DTC) operations, maintaining high standards in manufacturing, and adapting to shifting consumer expectations, while staying grounded in its purpose. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How Lindsey turned a gap in the towel market into a premium, design-led opportunity * The importance of obsessing over every customer touchpoint—from box to bathroom * Why feedback loops helped shape their core product line and brand evolution * Building a retail-ready experience while staying loyal to DTC roots * What it really means to lead with trust, transparency, and intuition   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the full episode to hear what it takes to build a movement around conscious consumption, one bottle at a time. For more on Weezie Towels, visit:  https://weezietowels.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners: https://revivemp.com/ REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners helps better-for-you CPG brands win on Amazon with niche expertise, founder-led strategy, and a true partnership model. Built by a CPG founder with a successful exit, REViVE only works with brands they believe in. Curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Allana Hurst, the energetic and passionate owner of Tights, Tights, Tights, a brand that's as fun to say as it is to shop.   From the moment we started talking, it was clear that Allana brings heart, hustle, and a sense of humor to everything she does. We explored what it takes to scale a family business with integrity, how she's reinventing a legacy retail experience for modern consumers, and what it means to stay true to your values in a fast-changing world. This conversation is filled with lessons on entrepreneurship, resilience, and how a niche business can cultivate genuine loyalty. Here are a few highlights from the episode: * The origin story of a brand that puts fit, function, and fun first. * How Tights, Tights, Tights balances brick-and-mortar with ecommerce growth. * Lessons from leading with empathy, humor, and grit in a competitive market. * Why customer experience isn't just a department, it's the heart of the brand. * What it really means to build a brand around confidence, comfort, and community. Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and discover how Allana is proving that legacy retail can evolve and thrive with purpose and personality. For more on Tights Tights Tights, visit: https://www.tightstightstights.co.uk/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

If you've ever wondered what it takes to turn a simple idea, like chewing gum, into a performance-driven, clean-label product with serious staying power, this episode is for you. Today, I'm talking with Logan Wright, Co-founder of Greco Gum, a brand redefining what gum can be. Logan shares the real story behind launching a functional gum designed to energize, support focus, and fit seamlessly into active lifestyles.  From early product formulations in a blender to landing on shelves in Erewhon, this is a founder journey that proves how much grit, clarity, and consumer empathy it takes to disrupt even the most overlooked CPG categories. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * Why Logan saw an opening in the market for better-for-you, functional gum * How they formulated a clean, no-compromise gum with real performance benefits * Lessons from testing in real life—gyms, marathons, and startup grind * What it takes to win early DTC sales and build trust with retail buyers * Balancing brand identity, efficacy, and storytelling from the ground up Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and get inspired by how Greco Gum is bringing a fresh perspective to wellness, one chew at a time. For more on Greco Gum, visit:  https://grecogum.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and for your first 30 days, it's just $1. Get real answers and skip the trial and error.

This interview left me feeling inspired and grounded.  I sat down with Hayley and Stephanie Painter, the passionate co-owners behind Painterland Sisters, a family-run brand that's redefining what it means to bring food from farm to spoon.  Raised on a fourth-generation regenerative farm in Pennsylvania, they've taken their roots and turned them into a vibrant, values-driven business that's nourishing people and the planet. In our conversation, we dive into how their Icelandic-style yogurt is not just a product, but a platform for connection, connecting consumers to farming, sustainability, and rural America. We talk about the highs and lows of building a CPG brand with family, the grit it takes to stay mission-aligned, and how they're navigating retail with boldness and heart. It's a story of sisterhood, soil, and serious entrepreneurial spirit. Here are some highlights from the episode: * How a regenerative farm upbringing shaped their business philosophy * The decision to launch with Icelandic-style yogurt—and why that mattered * What it takes to scale from local markets to national retail chains * Why storytelling and transparency are central to their brand DNA * Lessons learned from staying rooted in values while growing fast Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and discover how two sisters are turning rural pride and regenerative farming into a standout CPG brand with heart. For more on Painterland Sisters, visit: https://painterlandsisters.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsor: Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

When it comes to rewriting the rules of women's health, few founders are doing it with as much heart, rigor, and clarity as Tovah Haim.  In this episode, I sit down with the founder and CEO of Bodily, a brand transforming the postpartum and reproductive health space by making invisible experiences visible and giving women the support they deserve. We talk about the glaring gaps in education and product design that exist for birthing and miscarriage experiences, how Bodily is changing the narrative with science-backed, radically empathetic solutions, and what it takes to pioneer a new category while honoring a deeply personal mission. Tovah's story is one of courage, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to serving women on their terms. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * Why most postpartum products weren't designed with women in mind, and how Bodily is changing that * The role of data and scientific rigor in developing Bodily's product line   * Lessons on educating a consumer who's underserved, overwhelmed, and often overlooked   * How the brand approaches both DTC and retail with intention and empathy   * The power of building from lived experience and staying anchored to purpose as you scale Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover how Bodily is reshaping the future of women's health with integrity, innovation, and impact. For more on Bodily, visit:  https://itsbodily.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

When a brand makes you smile just by looking at it, you know there's something special going on.  That's exactly how I felt when I discovered IZIPIZI,  a company on a mission to bring style, joy, and accessibility to eyewear.  In this episode, I sit down with Charles Brun, Co-founder and CEO of IZIPIZI, to explore how they transformed a simple idea into a global lifestyle brand by leading with design, affordability, and human-centered values. Charles and I delve into IZIPIZI's journey from a class project in France to its distribution in over 7,000 stores across more than 80 countries. We talk about the power of simplicity, the discipline of great design, and how his team keeps joy at the center of their brand, even as they scale.  Whether you're building a brand from scratch or looking to rediscover your "why," there's so much to learn from their intentional and inclusive approach. Here are a few highlights from the episode:   * How three college friends turned a school idea into a multimillion-dollar brand.   *Why international expansion starts with listening, not assumptions.   * The role of simplicity, functionality, and “smile design” in standing out in a crowded market.   * Building retail partnerships without losing the brand soul.   * Keeping purpose and product quality aligned as you grow. Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the full episode and get inspired by a brand that's making vision care both stylish and joyful for everyone. For more on IZIPIZI, visit: https://www.izipizi.com/us_en If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

When you meet someone building a brand with soul, you feel it.  That's exactly what happened when I spoke with JW Wiseman, the founder of Curious Elixirs, a line of booze-free cocktails that doesn't just skip the alcohol but adds in adaptogens, bold flavor, and a whole lot of purpose. We discuss how this brand was born out of personal transformation, how JW is rethinking the celebration culture, and why staying curious has become a guiding principle for both life and business.  This is a story about conscious consumption, brand intimacy, and staying true to your values, even when it's hard. If you're interested in building something that blends health, flavor, and meaning, this one's for you. Here are a few highlights from the episode: * Why JW calls Curious a “functional celebration” brand, not just a drink. * The role of adaptogens and how they elevate the non-alcoholic experience. * Bootstrapping and finding the right DTC growth model in a nuanced category. * How they've built deep emotional resonance with their community. * The power of naming, storytelling, and ritual in CPG branding. Join us in listening to the full episode to hear what it takes to build a movement around conscious consumption, one bottle at a time. For more on Curious Elixir, visit:  https://curiouselixirs.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners: https://revivemp.com/ REViVE Amazon Marketing Partners helps better-for-you CPG brands win on Amazon with niche expertise, founder-led strategy, and a true partnership model. Built by a CPG founder with a successful exit, REViVE only works with brands they believe in. Curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.

When Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, first tried Aplós, she knew there was something different, sophisticated, calming, and beautifully intentional.  In this episode, Rose sits down with David Fudge, Co-founder and CEO of Aplós, to unpack how he's not just building a brand—he's reimagining what it means to unwind. From Bonobos to beverage, David's journey is a masterclass in blending creative vision with operational strategy. We dive deep into how Aplós is breaking category codes while anchoring to timeless consumer desires. David shares how his fashion-forward, design-driven mindset helped shape a non-alcoholic spirit brand that's as emotionally resonant as it is operationally sound.  Whether you're a founder, marketer, or brand strategist, this episode is full of insights that will have you rethinking what brand-building really means today. Here are a few key moments to listen for: * How David leveraged a non-beverage background to challenge industry norms—and why not knowing the rules can be an asset. * The concept of “disciplined disruption”: choosing which category codes to break and which to honor. * Why bartenders—not just consumers—are key to Aplós's advocacy and growth strategy. * Building a go-to-market strategy rooted in both aspiration and data: from DTC learnings to luxury retail partnerships. * David's powerful mantra: “Be convicted in vision, malleable in strategy,” and what it means for modern founders navigating fast-changing landscapes. Join us in listening to the episode to discover how David is crafting more than a product. He's creating a cultural shift in how we gather, relax, and connect. This is a story of vision, values, and the bold art of brand building. For more on Aplós, visit:  https://www.aplos.world/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.      Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and for your first 30 days, it's just $1. Get real answers and skip the trial and error

When your product is born out of love, necessity, and a mission to help others, it shows.  In this episode, I sit down with Jesslyn Rollins, CEO of BIOLYTE, the first medical-grade hydration drink formulated to deliver the benefits of an IV bag in a bottle. What started as a way to help her mom during cancer treatment has grown into a mission-driven brand helping people stay hydrated across healthcare, athletic, and everyday wellness settings. We dive into Jesslyn's inspiring entrepreneurial journey, how she leaned on her background in theater to sell products from the ground up, and how BIOLYTE's science-backed formula is shaking up a legacy category. From packaging evolution to retail expansion and customer education, this episode is packed with lessons in resilience, brand building, and staying true to your mission. Here are a few highlights from the conversation: * How a doctor's IV formula became a game-changing hydration solution * Why improv, persistence, and performance shaped Jesslyn's sales success * The power of packaging: how “IV in a bottle” doubled sales * Why dehydration isn't just about thirst and how BIOLYTE goes beyond water * What it really takes to scale a beverage brand with zero outside capital Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the full episode and discovering how BIOLYTE is helping redefine hydration, one bottle at a time. For more on BIOLYTE, visit:  https://drinkbiolyte.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

Few brands impress me the way Kizik has when it comes to everyday innovation that people can use in their daily lives. In this episode, I sit down with Elizabeth Drori, the Chief Marketing Officer leading the charge at Kizik, the brand redefining how we think about footwear. These aren't just shoes; they're hands-free, high-tech, and built for real life.  Whether you're a parent juggling kids, an athlete on the go, or someone seeking comfort and ease, Kizik is changing the game. And yes, I've worn the same pair for four years — that's how good they are. Elizabeth shares the evolution of Kizik — from early tech innovation to a growing global brand — and how they're making shoes that are stylish, comfortable, and built to move with you. We dive into marketing strategy, inclusive design, and why hands-free isn't just a feature, it's the future. Here are just a few highlights: * How Kizik is disrupting the footwear industry with hands-free technology   * Why their “no-sacrifice” approach balances performance, comfort, and design  * Scaling from DTC to retail with stores, Amazon, and international launches  * The role of inclusivity and lifestyle in their expanding product line  * Marketing to parents, athletes, older adults, and everyone in between Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and discovering why hands-free might be the only way forward regarding shoes. For more on Kizik, visit: https://kizik.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year.   Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lauren Corugedo, Head of Marketing at Chef Merito. Chef Merito is a family-founded Latino brand that has been bringing bold, authentic flavor to kitchens since 1985.  We dove into the brand's rich heritage, how it all started in her grandfather's garage, and why staying true to their roots is more important than ever as they grow across the U.S. Lauren shares the emotional connection people have with Chef Merito seasonings, the brand's commitment to quality and innovation, and how they're keeping flavors both timeless and trend-forward.  From collaborations at Dodger Stadium to growing demand in B2B and retail, this is a story of passion, perseverance, and flavor that connects generations. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:   * The family story behind Chef Merito and its first seasoning, Carne Asada * How the brand balances tradition with innovation in B2B, DTC, and retail * Why adaptability is key in modern marketing and flavor development * The surprising versatility of seasonings—from tofu to stadium fries * How community feedback and family values shape every decision Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the full episode and discover what it takes to build a multigenerational brand that honors its past while cooking up the future. For more on Chef Merito, visit: https://chefmerito.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

When someone tells me they're going all in, I listen.  That's exactly what Tommy Walsh, Founder & Owner of Shroom Bar, did when he launched Shroom Bar, a protein-packed, mushroom-fueled bar designed for focus, energy, and endurance.    In this episode, Tommy shares his founder journey, from mixing mushroom powder in his drinks to building a functional bar brand targeting the MMA world (and beyond). We explore what it really takes to bring a product from kitchen to shelf: sourcing ingredients, scaling manufacturing, bootstrapping marketing, and staying committed through long product cycles.   Tommy's not just building a brand—he's cultivating a lifestyle for everyday fighters, athletes, and high-performers looking for clean, daily fuel. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * Why mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Cordyceps aren't just trendy, they're powerful tools for performance and recovery * How targeting the MMA community gave the brand a strong identity and early traction * The cash flow vs. economies-of-scale challenge every CPG founder faces * Why going “mile deep, inch wide” is the smartest early strategy for niche brands * Lessons on going DTC-first, building social as an asset, and staying laser-focused on the long game Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the full episode and hear what it really takes to go all in and build a functional food brand with purpose, grit, and hustle. For more on Shroom Bar, visit:  https://eatshroombar.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

When I say this episode is packed with hard-won wisdom, I mean it. I sat down with Matt Orlic, founder of Qure Skincare, who's built 25+ brands over the past two decades, and survived losing $5 million when a major retailer collapsed overnight. Instead of giving up, he pivoted to DTC and built Qure, a brand redefining the skincare category through innovation, accessibility, and product efficacy. In this conversation, Matt discusses everything from emotional resilience and operating leverage to why he believes the future of skincare is tech-forward, community-driven, and built around real customer needs. His story is one of grit, reinvention, and what it really takes to scale a modern brand in today's market. Here are some key moments from our chat: * How losing millions taught Matt the value of diversification and product-market fit   * Why innovation and “leverage points” are Qure's secret to sustainable growth   * The power of storytelling and authenticity in an increasingly AI-driven world   * How Qure balances DTC-first growth with global retail expansion   * What it takes to create FDA-approved hardware and bring clinic-grade tech home   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the full episode and discovering what it takes to build a skincare brand that's not skin-deep. For more on Qure Skincare, visit:  https://qureskincare.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave  The Story of a Brand Showa rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Today's Highlighted Brand: Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/ If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.  Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies. Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study!  Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!  Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now!

As someone who's passionate about brands that lead with purpose and quality, my conversation with Lindsey Hickey, CEO and owner of Simek's, was a true highlight.   Simek's isn't just about frozen meals; it's about nourishing people with food made from real ingredients, giving back to local communities, and doing business with integrity. In this episode, Lindsey shares her journey from joining the family business at just 26 years old to leading the company through a complete transformation from running retail stores to building a nationally distributed CPG brand.   We talk about product simplification, clean ingredient innovation, what it takes to get B Corp certified, and how she balances leadership and motherhood with authenticity and purpose. Here are a few key takeaways from the episode: * Why simplifying the product line was critical to scaling, and which SKUs made the cut * How Simek's removed artificial ingredients and doubled down on real, clean, small-batch meals * Lessons learned from the brand's CPG transition, trade spend strategy, and digital evolution * Why DTC didn't make sense for frozen and how they partnered with retail to grow smarter * Their mission-driven approach to impact: from donating 13M+ meals to removing 180K+ lbs of ocean-bound plastic Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the full episode to hear how Lindsey is leading with heart, purpose, and a commitment to doing things the right way. For more on Simek's, visit: https://simeks.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year.   Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

From the moment I met Annie Meyer, Co-founder & CEO of Untoxicated, I could tell she was building something special.   In this episode, we dive deep into her journey with Untoxicated, a mission-driven skincare brand formulated for people with sensitive skin and built around science, empathy, and real impact.  Annie opens up about the personal skin struggles that led her to co-found the brand, how she partnered with an allergist from the Cleveland Clinic, and what it means to create skincare that's not just clean but truly allergen-free. We also discuss entrepreneurship, product-market fit, and what it takes to build a brand that prioritizes people over profit. Annie's insights on distribution, innovation, and bootstrapping are gold for any founder trying to break into the crowded CPG space. Here are some key moments from the episode: * Why “less is more” when formulating products for real skin sensitivities * How saying “no” to retailers helped them stay focused on long-term scale * The power of DTC and Amazon to build trust before entering retail * The decision to price products accessibly, even when investors pushed back * Why partnering with a doctor sets a new standard for skin health Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the full episode and get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to launch a truly purpose-driven brand in beauty. For more on Untoxicated, visit:  https://www.untoxicated.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Workspace6 - Private Community for 7, 8, 9-figure Brands: https://www.workspace6.io/ Workspace6 is a private community where over 950 seven, eight, and nine-figure brand operators trade insights, solve problems, and shortcut growth. It's the anti-fluff operator's room, and today, you can join the community for $1 for your first 30 days!

As someone who's had the pleasure of working closely with Sachi Singh, the Founder & CEO of Rootless, I knew this episode would be special.    Sachi isn't just building a product. She's building a movement rooted in impact, education, and transformation.  In this conversation, we explore Rootless's origin story, how seaweed became the brand's "hero ingredient," and the systems thinking that underpins her entire approach to food, wellness, and the planet. We also discuss how Rootless is bridging the gap between food and medicine, creating a daily ritual that empowers women to feel better. Starting with iodine-rich, whole-food bites that taste as good as they are good for you, Sachi shares her philosophy on customer-led product development, the importance of regenerative sourcing, and why the future of women's health is personal, accessible, and community-driven. Here are some highlights from the episode: * Why seaweed could be the future of food and farming, and why your thyroid needs it   * How Sachi used systems thinking to turn complex climate and nutrition issues into consumer action   * The simple but powerful way Rootless collects feedback from its community   * How she's balancing DTC-first growth with a scalable, retention-focused model   * Her lessons on gut instinct, building from wholeness, and designing a brand with purpose Join me, Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures, in listening to the episode and learning what it really takes to launch a mission-driven brand that will change how we nourish ourselves and the planet. For more on Rootless, visit:  https://getrootless.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

When it comes to fueling ambition, some stories are just unforgettable. In this episode, Rose Hamilton, founder of Compass Rose Venture, sits down with Scott Turner and Nick Lagonia, the powerhouse duo behind Misery & Mayhem, a new protein-packed oatmeal brand that's redefining what "fuel" really means for athletes and everyday warriors alike. We dive deep into how two former Peloton team members turned their personal fitness journeys and frustrations into a brand that's all about perseverance, grit, and getting after it — one bowl at a time. I loved this conversation because Scott and Nick embody the heart of entrepreneurship: bootstrapping their way forward, listening closely to their customers, and creating a product that isn't just high-quality, but also emotional, bold, and stands for something. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a fitness enthusiast, or love a good founder story, you'll walk away inspired. Here are just a few highlights from this episode:

In this episode, I sit down with João Esteves, founder of DiVERGE Sneakers, a brand that's rewriting the rules of footwear from the ground up.   We discuss why customization matters, how DiVERGE puts the customer's individuality front and center, and what it truly takes to build a business rooted in purpose, not just profit.   João opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, including the emotional resilience required to stay the course and the people who believed in him when the business needed it most. From launching a brand inspired by a Robert Frost poem to becoming a B Corp committed to people and the planet, João shares how DiVERGE is challenging mass production and the wasteful norms of the fashion industry. We also dive into the brand's incredible social impact program that helps underprivileged youth design their own shoes and share their stories with the world.

On today's episode of The Story of a Brand Show, I'm joined by Lauren Picasso, the founder and CEO of Cure Hydration.   What started as a personal struggle with staying hydrated as an endurance athlete led Lauren to launch a science-backed, clean-label hydration brand that is now available in thousands of retail stores.  We talked about how she identified the gap in the hydration category, built Cure from the ground up (including mixing formulas at home), and the strategic choices that helped the brand scale across DTC and retail. Lauren didn't come from the CPG world, but her background in e-commerce and performance marketing helped her build a brand that's both mission-driven and data-informed. She shares how DTC insights led to major pivots in product format and packaging, why launching in CVS was a game-changer early on, and how Cure's clean ingredients and powder format offer a better, more sustainable alternative to traditional sports drinks. Here's what we cover in this episode: * Why coconut water powder + salt = hydration magic * The moment CVS expanded Cure to 3,000+ stores—and what it unlocked * The value of launching DTC before going retail * The surprising reason most customers buy Cure (hint: it's not just for athletes) * Expanding into a kids' line (with flavors kid-tested and approved) Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and get inspired by how one founder turned a personal need into a rapidly growing wellness brand, redefining what it means to stay truly hydrated. For more on Cure Hydration, visit:  https://www.curehydration.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

In this episode, I sat down with Vicky Pasche, the incredible force behind Dapper Boi, a gender-inclusive, size-inclusive apparel brand with a mission rooted in confidence and authenticity.   What began as Vicky's search for clothes that fit her body and identity has grown into a full-blown movement. From scrappy Kickstarter launches to launching on Nordstrom, this is a story of resilience, creativity, and staying true to your why. We talk about the power of fit, why confidence is Dapper Boi's actual product, and the wild ride of building a business from scratch. Vicky doesn't hold back; she shares the highs, the lows, the viral videos, the sacrifices (including selling her house), and what it means to truly serve a community that has long been ignored by mainstream fashion.

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Bronstad, CEO of Malk Organics, and talk about the journey of not just leading a clean-label brand but rebuilding it from the inside out.   Jason shares how a deeply personal career pivot led him to a mission-driven company that's transforming the plant-based milk category, one clean ingredient at a time. We get into the weeds from SKU rationalization and shelf life extension to the emotional lessons of transparent leadership and brand stewardship. What happens when your consumers call you out on social media? You listen, and you learn, and Jason shares exactly how his team responded and evolved.

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Abel, Co-founder and CEO of Pilot Project Brewing, a first-of-its-kind beverage incubator helping brands navigate one of the most competitive and complex CPG categories: beverages.   From launching home-brew experiments in his garage to opening multi-location tasting rooms and scaling more than 20 innovative brands, Dan shares the real story behind building an incubator that acts more like a record label than a traditional brewery. We discuss how Pilot Project removes barriers for founders, democratizes access to manufacturing and distribution, and gathers real-time consumer data to help determine which brands will succeed. Dan also shares lessons on entrepreneurship, brand validation, and why beverage founders shouldn't go it alone. Key Moments in This Episode: * How Pilot Project Brewing was inspired by the music industry's support system for creatives * Why real product validation means gathering comparative data, not just compliments * What founders need to know about packaging, shelf presence, and customer experience * The trends Dan sees emerging from over 1,200 brand applications (including what's next) * How this incubator helped a non-alcoholic brand scale and get acquired in under two years Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this episode for a deep look into how smart support systems and shared resources are reshaping the beverage world. Whether you're a founder or a fan of what's next, this one's for you. For more on Pilot Project Brewing, visit:  https://www.pilotprojectbrewing.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

In this episode, I chat with Charlie Weisman, the creative force behind Staff, a brand that's reimagining the most overlooked items in your home such as plungers, lint rollers, and oven mitts with joy, color, and a whole lot of personality.   What started as a quirky side project during the COVID lockdown turned into a design-forward brand now making waves with retailers, collaborators, and even celebrities like Drew Barrymore.   Charlie opens up about building Staff from scratch, why he didn't tell anyone what he was working on, and how trusting his instincts (plus a little naivete in the beginning) helped him take a bold, playful idea and turn it into something unforgettable. From early retail wins to lessons in manufacturing and shipping, this one's packed with insights and good vibes.  

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Abel Jr., Chief Chocolate Officer of Bissinger's, one of the oldest chocolate companies in the world, dating back to 1668.   We dive into this remarkable brand's royal beginnings in France, its journey to the U.S., and how Dan and his family have preserved Bissinger's timeless quality while modernizing its operations for today's consumer. Dan shares the heartfelt moments that fueled their purpose, from handwritten letters of gratitude to surviving COVID by leaning on their direct-to-consumer strength. We also talk chocolate, real chocolate. Dan walks us through what makes Bissinger's different, from hand-decorated truffles to multi-day candy-making processes that start with whole fruits and pure cane sugar. This episode is part business story, part masterclass in heritage and craftsmanship and all heart.

In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with Julie Smolyansky, President, CEO, and Chairwoman of Lifeway Foods, a pioneering brand behind the kefir movement in the U.S.   We dive deep into Julie's incredible family story, from escaping the Soviet Union with just $116 to building a nearly $200M company that now owns 95% of the global kefir category. Julie shares how her father's dream, her mother's entrepreneurial spirit, and her own grit helped turn a probiotic-rich dairy drink into a wellness staple for millions. We also discuss the science behind kefir, staying innovative while running a public company, and how Julie is standing strong in the face of a hostile takeover attempt. This isn't just a conversation about dairy; it's about resilience, passion, legacy, and the powerful connection between gut health and life. Key Moments in This Episode: *

Ever wonder why restaurant aprons haven't changed in a hundred years?  In this episode, I sat down with father-son duo Kevin and Kieran Hoy of Smart Apron to discuss how they're transforming a tired, overlooked product into a modern-day solution for food service workers and beyond. What started with a stitched-up fanny pack has become a functional, durable, and smartly designed product used by everyone from restaurant servers to Nike inventory teams. We dive deep into how they've bootstrapped their business, navigated manufacturing challenges, and used customer feedback to build a better product. From high school business projects to Amazon reviews, Smart Apron proves that listening to your customers and staying consistent can lead to real innovation. Key Moments in This Episode:

What does it take to build a premium wellness brand in one of the world's most regulated, misunderstood, and competitive industries?  In this episode, I sit down with David Hartigan, Founder and CEO of Hemp Heros, to talk about the real story behind his mission-driven CBD and functional mushroom company. From managing MMA fighters to becoming one of the few B Corp-certified hemp brands, David shares how a single moment of belief changed his life and how he's paying it forward through his business. David takes us behind the scenes of launching into the U.S. market, setting up U.S.-based manufacturing, creating pet products that win hearts (and tails), and building multiple brands with integrity. He's also inspired by his mother's health journey with a new mushroom line. He's proof that success follows when you lead with quality and purpose.

What happens when two creative minds, a thriving agency founder and a comedian-turned-creator, team up to launch a better-for-you hydration brand?   You get VitaWild—a deliciously clean and thoughtfully formulated hydration and immunity blend that's winning hearts (and taste buds).  In this episode, I sit down with Jacques Spitzer and James Schrader, co-founders of VitaWild, to talk about their passion for product integrity, building brands with intention, and why they refused to cut corners in making something their families—and yours—can feel good about drinking. They open up about the actual cost of doing things right, the power of storytelling in CPG, and how they're using their creative roots to build something truly impactful. Key Moments in This Episode:

What do you get when you combine a great-grandmother's Swedish cookie recipe, a mother-daughter duo, and a lot of grit?   You get Spritzal, a clean-label cookie brand disrupting the cookie aisle with shortbread bites made from real, simple ingredients. In this episode, I sit down with Taylor Walker, COO and Co-founder of Spritzal, to talk about how a family recipe evolved into a brand that's winning over retailers, shoppers, and sweet tooths alike. Taylor shares the 10-year journey of building Spritzal, from hand-pressing cookies in a home kitchen to scaling manufacturing and launching with major retailers. We also talk about what it takes to stand out in a crowded category and the power of resilience, belief, and, of course, butter. Key Moments in This Episode:

What happens when two passionate entrepreneurs set out to reinvent the non-alcoholic drinking experience?  In this episode, I sit down with Oliver Spring and Sophia Racciatti, Co-Founders of Ooso, to discuss their journey of creating a sparkling tea inspired by natural wine. From late-night kitchen experiments to landing on retail shelves, they share how they built a brand that brings complexity, sophistication, and design-forward thinking to the non-alcoholic space. Oliver and Sophia dive into the challenges of launching a beverage brand, the importance of great branding, and why consumer education is key to success in the growing non-alcoholic market. Key Moments in This Episode: ✅ The Spark Behind Ooso – How a personal lifestyle shift led to a brand idea. ✅ From Idea to Market – The year-long journey of formulation and brand building. ✅ Retail Strategy & Challenges – What it takes to get on store shelves. ✅ Why Packaging Matters – The role of branding in consumer adoption. ✅ The Future of Non-Alcoholic Beverages – Trends shaping the category. Join me, Ramon Vela, for this insightful and inspiring conversation with Oliver and Sophia as we explore the future of better-for-you beverages! For more on Ooso, visit:  https://drinkooso.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more.  Today's Highlighted Brand: Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/ If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.  Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies. Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study!  Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!  Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now!