The Story of a Brand

In this episode of The Story of a Brand Show, my co-host Rose Hamilton, CEO of Compass Rose Ventures, sits down with Mike Fata, Founder and past Chairman & CEO of Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods.  Mike's story is one of personal transformation fueling a movement. What began with his own health journey, losing weight, regaining strength, and discovering hemp seeds, evolved into co-founding a company that pioneered an entire food category and scaled it all the way to a $419 million strategic exit. Mike shares how belief, discipline, and governance shaped his entrepreneurial path. From facing stigma around hemp in the early days, to building a trusted brand on quality and education, to evolving his own leadership from founder to CEO to chairman, Mike gives us a masterclass in resilience and scaling with integrity.  Today, he's paying it forward as a mentor, investor, and author of “Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur.” Here are some of the key moments from the episode: * How personal health struggles inspired Mike to co-found Manitoba Harvest * The power of storytelling and education in building belief in a new category * Why governance, values, and discipline were non-negotiable guardrails for scaling * The mindset shift required to evolve from founder to CEO to chairman * Why mentorship and continuous improvement remain at the core of his legacy Join us in listening to the episode and hear how Mike Fata transformed passion into purpose, purpose into a category-defining brand, and now, wisdom into mentorship for the next generation of founders. For more on Mike Fata, visit: https://www.mikefata.ca/ To buy Mike Fata's book, “Grow: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur,” visit Bookshop.org, Amazon, or wherever you purchase books and audiobooks.  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!

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rachel Katzman, the founder of Pvolve, a functional fitness company that's redefining what it means to truly move your body with purpose.  Rachel's story is deeply personal and inspiring. What started as a search for relief from back pain and scoliosis evolved into creating a method that blends functional fitness with resistance equipment, delivering not only results but also long-term health and mobility. In our conversation, Rachel opened up about her journey with Lyme disease, how it reshaped her perspective on wellness, and why she believes movement is medicine. We also explored how Pvolve scaled from a scrappy start-up to a global brand with both digital and studio presences, why clinical studies matter in fitness, and what it means to franchise a mission-driven brand. Some key moments from the episode include: * Rachel's personal health journey and how it inspired the Pvolve method.   * Why functional fitness addresses more than aesthetics; it prevents injury, improves posture, and supports longevity.   * The pivotal role of clinical studies in validating fitness methods and building consumer trust.   * How Pvolve thrived during the pandemic with its digital platform and transitioned into a fast-growing franchise model.   * The impact of celebrity advocates like Jennifer Aniston in amplifying the brand's credibility.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and discover how Pvolve is changing the fitness landscape with an approach that goes beyond sweat; it's about strength, mobility, and living pain-free. For more on Pvolve, visit: https://pvolve.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 it believes in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.   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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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 of The Story of a Brand Show, I sit down with Lauren Kleinman, Founder of Dreamday and Co-founder of Quality Media. Lauren shares her journey from working at Ritual and Scopely to building not just one, but two thriving agencies that are reshaping how brands approach PR, affiliate, and paid media. Her story is rooted in curiosity, courage, and a clear vision for how the media landscape is evolving. What stood out to me is how Lauren built Dreamday around the idea of “performance PR,” combining traditional press with measurable ROI through affiliate links. Then, she and her partners created Quality Media to bring media buying, creative, and paid amplification under one roof.  Together, the agencies form a closed loop where press, content, and paid all fuel each other, driving growth and brand equity in ways most agencies can't match. Here are some highlights from our conversation: * How Dreamday coined the concept of “performance PR” and why it's more relevant than ever.   * The origin story of Quality Media and its unique performance publishing model powered by The Quality Edit.   * Why the media landscape is shifting to diversified channels, such as TikTok, Substack, and even ChatGPT search.   * How AI is reshaping agency work and why Lauren calls Dreamday and Quality Media “people-first, AI-enabled agencies.”   * Lauren's personal journey as a mom, yoga teacher, and leader striving to create workplaces that become the highlight of her team's careers.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the full episode to hear how Lauren is building intentional, future-ready agencies while staying grounded as a leader. This is a must-listen for founders, marketers, and anyone curious about the future of brand storytelling and performance marketing.   For more on Dreamday, visit: https://www.dreamday.la/ For more on Quality Media, visit:  https://www.qualitymedia.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.

When it comes to building lasting health and wellness brands, few people have as much lived experience as Raza Bashir. As Chief Innovation Officer at Iovate Health Sciences International, Raza has spent nearly two decades turning cutting-edge science into products that make a real difference in people's lives. From MuscleTech to Hydroxycut, his fingerprints are on some of the most influential supplement brands of our time. In this conversation, hosted by Rose Hamilton, CEO of Compass Rose Ventures, we delve into the journey of innovation: what it truly entails behind the scenes, why transparency is non-negotiable, and how balancing margins with quality is one of the most challenging yet critical aspects of brand building.  Raza also shares what inspires his product innovation, lessons from products like Clear Muscle, and his perspective on the fast-changing landscape of consumer wellness. Here are some of the key moments from the episode: * The early days at Iovate and how a culture of speed and passion shaped innovation * Why storytelling and consumer feedback remain as important as the science behind the product * The Clear Muscle case study—how testing, iteration, and positioning made all the difference * Building consumer trust through transparency, science, and third-party validation * The future of supplements: precision nutrition, peptides, and the rise of consumer “stacks” Join Rose Hamilton in listening to the episode and hear how Raza Bashir is helping shape the next era of health and wellness through innovation, trust, and intentional leadership. For more on Iovate Health Sciences International, visit: https://www.iovate.com/ Iovate Brands: For more information on MuscleTech, visit www.muscletech.com For more information on Six Star, visit: www.sixstarpro.com For more information on Hydroxycut, visit: www.hydroxycut.com For more information on Purely Inspired, visit: www.purelyinspired.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: 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 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.

I had such a powerful and eye-opening conversation with Lisa Curtis, Founder & CEO of Kuli Kuli Foods.  Lisa shared her incredible journey that began in the Peace Corps in Niger, where she first discovered moringa, a nutrient-packed “tree leaf” that transformed her health.   What started as a simple act of self-care in a rural village has grown into Kuli Kuli Foods, a pioneering superfoods brand that now partners with thousands of small farmers across Africa and India, empowers women, and brings nutritious, climate-smart foods to shelves nationwide. Lisa opened up about the early hurdles, navigating FDA approvals, raising money through crowdfunding, and hustling at farmers' markets, and how those small proof points led to partnerships with Whole Foods, Walmart, and more.   We also explored the resilience it takes to keep going for over 12 years, her gratitude practice, and the leadership lessons that continue to guide her. This episode is packed with inspiration for entrepreneurs and food lovers alike. Here are some highlights from our conversation:   How a Peace Corps experience in Niger led to the discovery of moringa and sparked the founding of Kuli Kuli Foods.   Overcoming early supply chain and regulatory challenges, including a $70,000 FDA hurdle with creativity and mentorship.   The role of farmers' markets and crowdfunding in proving demand and landing Whole Foods as their first big customer.   Building impact by partnering with 3,000 small farmers and reinvesting 10% of profits into community projects worldwide.   Lisa's advice for entrepreneurs: map out small proof points, celebrate wins, and keep the courage to start and persist. Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to Lisa's inspiring story of grit, gratitude, and global impact, and to discover how Kuli Kuli is changing the way we think about superfoods. For more on Kuli Kuli Foods, visit: https://www.kulikulifoods.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 it believes in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.   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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.

I had a truly meaningful and inspiring conversation with Jenny Yue, Co-Founder of Ohme Foods. Jenny shared how her personal health journey, such as losing 50 pounds, rediscovering fitness, and building confidence through small daily wins, became the spark that inspired her to create Ohme.  What began as a New Year's resolution to start every morning with a healthy breakfast has now evolved into a colorful, family-friendly snack brand that helps people kick off their days with wellness in mind. We discussed the challenges of building a brand from scratch, including struggles with packaging, finding the right retail strategy, and navigating the early days of farmers' markets and pop-ups.   Jenny also opened up about the big wins along the way, like Urban Outfitters reaching out on Instagram to carry their products, and the joy of seeing both kids and parents embrace Ohme's freeze-dried fruits and yogurt crunches. Her story is a reminder that small steps and small wins can add up to something truly transformative. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:   Jenny's gratitude practice and how a supportive friend helped her gain clarity and confidence in tough moments.   The personal wellness journey that inspired the launch of Ohme Foods.   How starting with farmers' markets led to unexpected retail wins, including Urban Outfitters.   The importance (and headaches) of packaging design and branding in standing out on shelves.   Why freeze-drying preserves 95% of nutrition while delivering that crunchy texture everyone loves. Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to Jenny's story and learn more about the mission behind Ohme Foods, and get inspired by how personal transformation can spark an incredible business journey. For more on Ohme Foods, visit: https://www.ohmefoods.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: 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 operations, your competitors are unlocking marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and even retail shelf space, 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.    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 had the chance to sit down with Steve Booher, the founder and CEO of Always Full, and what an inspiring conversation it was.   Steve's entrepreneurial journey spans decades, from walking away from a “lifetime” corporate job to building multiple companies across engineering, manufacturing, and ag-tech. Along the way, he learned hard lessons about trust, cash flow, and resilience. And now, he's bringing all of that experience into the pet space with a product that solves a simple but universal problem—keeping your pet's water bowl always full and always clean. In our conversation, Steve shared the story of how a broken arm in his family turned into the spark for Always Full. What began as a sketch in AutoCAD evolved into a laser-precise, vortex-flushing, self-cleaning water bowl that pet parents (and pets!) are falling in love with.   From overcoming engineering challenges, to winning awards at SuperZoo and Global Pet Expo, to preparing for retail and online expansion, Steve walked us through what it takes to build not just a product, but a brand that truly makes a difference in people's lives. Here's what you'll learn in this episode: * How Steve's early career experiences led him to embrace entrepreneurship   * The tough lessons he learned building and selling multiple companies before Always Full   * How his wife's broken arm sparked the idea for a better water bowl   * The engineering process behind Always Full, including the vortex flush and filtration system   * Why Always Full is gaining traction with consumers, retailers, and even industry awards Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode of The Story of a Brand as we dive into the journey of an entrepreneur who's proving that solving real problems—like keeping your pets healthy and hydrated—can be both meaningful and transformative. For more on Always Full, visit: https://alwaysfull.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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.   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 it believes in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.

From the Archives: Back in May 2024, I had the pleasure of sitting down with John Molloy, Co-founder and CEO of Memo Paris, to explore the fascinating world of fragrance and the art of memory it evokes.  John shared his journey from fashion to perfumery, the courage it took to leave a corporate path, and how he and his wife, Clara, built Memo Paris around the idea of capturing places, emotions, and memories through scent. What stood out most was how fragrance becomes more than just a product; it becomes a bridge to culture, connection, and even self-expression. In this conversation, we dived into how Memo Paris was born out of curiosity, love, and creativity, and how the brand has grown from just four fragrances to a collection found in over 60 countries.  John opened up about the role of family, mentors, and his wife's poetic vision in shaping Memo Paris, and how every bottle tells a story of place, beauty, and emotion. Here's what you'll learn in this episode:   How John's early mentors and family support gave him the courage to take the entrepreneurial leap   The story of Memo Paris and how fragrances capture “places of grace” around the world   Why building a fragrance brand is about long-term relationships, not quick trends   The role of art, storytelling, and creativity in shaping Memo Paris's bottles and scents   Sneak peek into new launches, including the fragrance inspired by Cappadocia   Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this inspiring episode of The Story of a Brand, where we discover how Memo Paris weaves together travel, memory, and artistry to create fragrances that truly tell a story.   For more on Memo Paris, visit: https://us.memoparis.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. 

I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Angus Rittenburg, Co-Founder and CEO of WYNK, to explore one of the fastest-growing trends in the beverage industry: low-dose THC drinks. Angus shared his incredible journey from engineering at Tesla and SpaceX to launching a scrappy startup with a vision for healthier, more social alternatives to alcohol. What struck me most was how much of WYNK's story is about holding onto a vision—even when the path forward wasn't clear and staying scrappy, adaptable, and true to quality. In this episode, Angus and I discuss everything from his early mentor, who taught him to value education over money, to the inventive mobile production systems that helped WYNK break into multiple states, to the massive regulatory unlock that allowed hemp-derived THC beverages to finally reach mainstream shelves.  Along the way, we also explored the challenges of consumer education, the better-for-you movement in beverages, and what it takes to not just build a product but build a category. Here's what you'll learn in this episode: * How a mentor's belief in vision over money shaped Angus's entrepreneurial journey * The scrappy origins of WYNK and how a mobile canning trailer became the company's launchpad * Why low-dose THC beverages are poised to disrupt alcohol consumption trends * The regulatory shifts that allowed WYNK to expand beyond dispensaries into bars, restaurants, and liquor stores * How WYNK is investing in quality and compliance to build not just a brand, but an entire category Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this fascinating episode of 'The Story of a Brand,' where we explore the vision, challenges, and triumphs behind WYNK, a brand rewriting the rules for social beverages.   For more on WYNK, visit: https://drinkwynk.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: 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.    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 had such a powerful and heartfelt conversation with Cara Dumaplin, the CEO & Founder of Taking Cara Babies.  Cara shared her deeply personal journey—from her background as a neonatal nurse and wife of a pediatrician to her own struggles with sleep deprivation as a new mom. What I loved most about this interview is how Cara took her hardest moments, the valleys of her life, and turned them into seeds that grew into a mission to help parents everywhere. We talked about how sleep impacts not only babies but the entire family, and how Cara's work is about so much more than swaddles or schedules—it's about empowering parents to believe in themselves, find grace in the learning process, and realize they are the true experts of their own children. Her wisdom, compassion, and dedication shine through every word. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:   How Cara's darkest moments as a new mom inspired her mission   Why helping parents get just a few extra hours of sleep is life-changing   The philosophy behind Taking Cara Babies: empowering parents as the experts   Practical guidance for parents at any stage, from newborns to toddlers   Why grace, compassion, and presence are essential in parenting   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode and hear how Cara is transforming the lives of parents and babies with wisdom, heart, and hope. For more on Taking Cara Babies, visit: https://takingcarababies.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 it believes in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today. 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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cynthia Sakai, Founder & CEO of EvolveTogether, and this conversation was both inspiring and deeply human.  Cynthia shared how her journey from jewelry design to launching a wellness-focused essentials brand began during the pandemic's chaos.  What started with masks for frontline workers quickly grew into a mission-driven company rooted in connection, intentional design, and products that make people feel truly cared for. What struck me most is how much thought Cynthia puts into every detail—whether it's the clean formulations, sustainable packaging, or even the way a soap fits in your hand. She's not just building products; she's building trust and raising expectations for what consumers deserve.  Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How a background in jewelry design shaped Cynthia's meticulous attention to detail   * The origin story of EvolveTogether and why masks were just the beginning   * Why the brand's ethos is about being “for humans,” not just for consumers   * The importance of industrial design in making daily essentials feel seamless   * Lessons on trusting your gut and staying rooted in your “why” as a founder   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode and hear how Cynthia is reshaping everyday essentials into products worth buying and a brand worth supporting.   For more on EvolveTogether, visit: https://evolvetogether.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. 

I had such an inspiring conversation with Noelle O'Connor, the founder of Tan Organic and Skin Magic. From building one of the cleanest sunless tanning brands in the world to creating a multi-use balm that families can trust, Noelle's story is packed with passion, resilience, and purpose. She opened up about the early struggles of running high-end spas during the recession, the pivotal moment when Simon Sinek helped her discover her “why,” and the values that continue to guide her company today—kindness, gratitude, integrity, quality, and innovation. What I loved most was hearing how Noelle's personal journey is woven into her brands. From overcoming setbacks to insisting on the highest-quality, sustainable ingredients, her drive is contagious.   We also explored the real challenges of competing as an indie brand against global beauty giants, the growing awareness of what we put on our skin, and the exciting growth Tan Organic and Skin Magic are experiencing in the U.S. Here are just a few highlights from our conversation: * How gratitude and kindness shaped Noelle's entrepreneurial journey   * The role of Dragon's Den and a chance meeting with Simon Sinek in launching Tan Organic   * Why clean, organic ingredients cost more—but deliver so much more value   * The story behind Skin Magic's 30+ uses and its recent launch at Costco.com   * Lessons on resilience, asking for help, and staying true to your “why”   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover how Noelle is redefining beauty with purpose-driven brands that care for people, planet, and skin health. For more on Tan Organics, visit: https://tanorganic.com/ For more on Skin Magic, visit: https://www.skinmagic.ie/ 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 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. 

I had such an inspiring conversation with Luna Aziz, the CEO & Founder of Legendairy Milk.  What started as her personal struggle with breastfeeding and milk supply has grown into a mission-driven brand that supports women through every stage of life—from trying to conceive to postpartum and beyond.  Luna's story is rooted in resilience, family support, and a deep commitment to women's health. Her candid honesty about motherhood and entrepreneurship made this conversation both powerful and refreshing. We talked about the realities of new motherhood, the stigma that still surrounds breastfeeding, and the importance of building products—and a community—that truly support women. Legendairy Milk isn't just about supplements; it's about breaking barriers, creating safe spaces for moms, and ensuring products are backed by science and integrity.  Luna also shared what it's been like to grow her business over 10 years, the sacrifices she's made along the way, and her advice to other founders navigating the entrepreneurial journey. Here are some key moments from our conversation: * How family support, especially her mom stepping in, made Legendairy Milk possible. * The personal struggles with milk supply that inspired her first product formulations. * Why humor and honesty are built into the brand's packaging and community. * How Legendairy Milk prioritizes education and support first, products second. * The certifications, testing, and research that set their supplements apart in a crowded market. Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode and hear how Luna turned her challenges into a brand that has supported moms for over a decade. Whether you're a parent, a founder, or someone passionate about women's health, you'll walk away inspired. For more on Legendairy Milk, visit: https://www.legendairymilk.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 it believes in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today. 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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.

I had such a fascinating conversation with Anthony Boldin, Founder of LiveComplete. This isn't just another protein brand; what Anthony and his team are building could truly change how we think about food, nutrition, and even the future of plant-based eating. What struck me most was his passion, not just for creating a product, but for creating a platform that delivers “no compromises, sacrifice nothing.” We delved into the science behind LiveComplete's unique protein blends, including its groundbreaking concept of match rate. Anthony explained how they've engineered plant-based proteins to replicate the amino acid profiles of human muscle, making them more effective for building strength, recovering faster, and even maintaining a lean physique.   This isn't just for vegans; it's for anyone who wants the most efficient and effective protein available. Here are some key moments from our conversation: * Anthony shares how a personal journey into veganism led him to discover protein imbalances and eventually write an algorithm to solve them.   * We delve into match rate, the measurement that determines how well a protein matches the components of our bodies, and why most proteins fall short.   * The story of LiveComplete's 30+ co-founders and their restaurant-owner energy: passion, sacrifice, and personal commitment to building something better.   * A look at upcoming products like baking mixes and plant-based egg replacements designed to deliver taste, texture, and nutrition without compromise.   * Why Anthony believes LiveComplete is more than a product—it's a platform for the future of food.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode and discover why LiveComplete is creating one of the most fascinating food innovations I've come across in a long time.   If you've ever wished for protein that's truly optimized for your body—and better for the planet—you'll want to hear this one. For more on LiveComplete, visit: https://livecomplete.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. 

I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Lolita Sanders, Founder of Umthi.  From the very first moment, it was clear how deeply personal her mission is—Umthi isn't just a skincare brand, it's rooted in family, culture, and the wisdom passed down through generations.  Lolita shared how her journey began with her grandmother's teachings and how she's transformed that legacy into a brand that blends tradition with modern wellness. What struck me most about this conversation was Lolita's commitment to creating products with integrity. She emphasized the importance of staying connected to the earth, honoring her heritage, and creating products that genuinely nurture.  It's rare to find a founder who brings such authenticity and care into every part of their business, and listening to her, you can feel that Umthi is about more than beauty—it's about healing and connection. Here are a few key moments from the episode: * How Umthi was born from her grandmother's influence and a desire to preserve cultural wisdom.   * The meaning behind the name “Umthi” and how it reflects the brand's roots and purpose.   * Why integrity and intentionality guide every decision, from sourcing to formulation.   * The role of nature and spirituality in her approach to skincare and wellness.   * The challenges and lessons of building a purpose-driven brand in today's market.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode and discover how Umthi is weaving heritage, authenticity, and healing into the world of skincare and beyond. For more on Umthi, visit: https://www.umthi.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: 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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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. 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.

I had such a great time talking with Dario Phillips, Co-founder of Slowtide. What started as a simple idea—a better beach towel—has grown into a lifestyle brand that's as much about art and culture as it is about function.  Dario shared how Slowtide turned a category often overlooked into something exciting, combining creativity, collaboration, and sustainability in a way that truly resonates with today's consumer. What really stood out to me was the way Dario approaches brand building. Slowtide isn't just about selling towels; it's about creating products that people connect with and want to showcase in their everyday lives. From artist collaborations to pushing the boundaries of what a towel can be, this is a story about vision, persistence, and transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Here are a few key moments from the episode: * How a love for surf, art, and culture inspired the very first product idea.   * The journey from a side hustle to a full-fledged brand stocked in major retailers.   * Why artist and brand collaborations have become such a powerful part of their identity.   * The challenges of scaling while staying true to their creative roots and sustainable values.   * Insights into how Slowtide turned a utilitarian product into a lifestyle statement. Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode and discover how Slowtide transformed a simple towel into a cultural canvas, building a brand that inspires creativity and community. For more on Slowtide, visit: https://slowtide.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: 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 it believes in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.   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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.

I loved this conversation with Clive Sher, President & Co-founder of Little Bellies.  As a parent myself, I've heard many brands talk about “organic” or “better-for-you” snacks, but I've never heard anyone break it down the way Clive did. From the very start of our chat, I could tell how thoughtful and intentional he and his team are about what goes into their products.   Their mission goes beyond just offering snacks; it's about guiding parents and children through each age and stage of development in a way that feels supportive, safe, and truly considered. What struck me most was how Clive described the philosophy behind Little Bellies' product design, encompassing everything from motor skill development to palate shaping, and avoiding what he calls “health washing.”   It's a level of care that's rare in this space, and it gave me a whole new perspective on how much food choices at an early age matter. Honestly, I was blown away. Here are a few highlights from the episode: * The story of how a family need, his nephew's severe food sensitivities inspired the founding of the company nearly 20 years ago.   * Why organic is only the starting point, and how Little Bellies avoids “pseudo-confectionery” by creating truly age-appropriate foods.   * The challenges of launching in North America in 2020, right as the pandemic hit, and how agility helped them adapt.   * A fascinating look at their “age and stage architecture” that supports children from seven months through toddlerhood with carefully designed textures, shapes, and flavors.   * The commitment to brand integrity and why they refuse to compromise, even when retailers request products that don't align with their values.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode and discover why Little Bellies isn't just another snack brand; it's a partner for parents who want the very best for their children. You'll find this conversation inspiring, thoughtful, and eye-opening. For more on Little Bellies, visit: https://littlebellies.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: 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.    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 had such an inspiring conversation with Lorraine Corcoran, Founder & CEO of Nyrah Beauty.  Her journey into skincare was deeply personal, sparked by her own search for products that truly worked for her sensitive skin.  What began as frustration turned into a passion for formulating clean, effective solutions that honor both the science of skincare and the integrity of natural ingredients. Lorraine's story is a reminder that sometimes the best brands are born from solving problems for ourselves first. What stood out to me was Lorraine's intentionality, whether it's choosing every ingredient with care, building a brand rooted in authenticity, or ensuring that Nyrah Beauty empowers people to feel confident in their own skin. She opens up about the challenges of breaking into the crowded beauty space, the role of education in building trust, and how she stays grounded while scaling a mission-driven brand. Here are a few highlights from the episode: * How personal skincare struggles became the foundation for Nyrah Beauty   * The philosophy of combining science with clean, natural ingredients   * The challenges and opportunities of standing out in a saturated beauty market   * Why education and transparency are central to building customer trust   * Lorraine's vision for the future of Nyrah Beauty   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover how Lorraine is reshaping beauty with purpose, passion, and authenticity. For more on Nyrah Beauty, visit: https://nyrahbeauty.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 it believes in. Are you curious if Amazon is right for you? Book a Free Deep Dive Strategy Session today.   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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.

I had such a fascinating conversation with Oliva Landau, Co-founder & CEO of The Clear Cut.  What started as her passion for educating people about diamonds has evolved into a thriving modern brand that's revolutionizing the way couples shop for engagement rings. Oliva shared how she went from being a gemologist and content creator to running a direct-to-consumer company that blends education, transparency, and trust at the heart of every customer interaction. What struck me most was how The Clear Cut's growth has been fueled not just by beautiful diamonds but by storytelling, social media, and community building. Oliva pulled back the curtain on the early days, the challenges of scaling while staying true to her mission, and how she's shaping the next chapter of a category that's been slow to evolve. Here are some highlights from the episode: * How a side hustle Instagram account turned into a full-fledged business   * Why education and transparency are the keys to disrupting the diamond industry   * The role social media has played in building community and brand trust   * Challenges of scaling while maintaining personalization in the customer experience   * What's next for The Clear Cut as they continue to grow and innovate   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and get inspired by Oliva's journey of turning her expertise and passion into a brand that's redefining the engagement ring experience. For more on The Clear Cut, visit: https://theclearcut.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. 

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Meredith Mills-Merritt, Founder of The Original Southside, and this was such a fun and refreshing conversation, literally.  From the very first sip of her canned cocktail, I was blown away by how crisp, light, and perfectly balanced it tasted. What really struck me, though, was how much heart and thoughtfulness went into every detail of this brand, from the family recipe it was inspired by to the intentional choice of organic, clean ingredients. Meredith's journey is one of resilience, creativity, and considerable grit. Coming from a background in the beauty industry, she made the leap into the ultra-competitive world of ready-to-drink cocktails, despite having no prior experience in the beverage industry.   What she did bring was a deep love of ingredients, a family gin recipe, and the determination to create something better than what was on the shelf. In our conversation, she shares the highs, the hurdles, and the very personal wins that keep her pushing forward. Here are a few highlights from the episode: * How a friend choosing Southside as her wedding drink became a powerful reminder of why Meredith started the brand   * The family recipe origins behind The Original Southside and how Meredith perfected it for the can   * Why being Whole Foods–compliant was a non-negotiable from day one   * The unique challenges of breaking into the alcohol industry's three-tier distribution system   * Meredith's go-to strategies for building awareness, from real-life tastings to word-of-mouth advocacy   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and get inspired by Meredith's journey of turning a family recipe into a modern, better-for-you cocktail brand. For more on The Original Southside, visit: https://www.drinksouthsides.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:   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 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. 

When I think of founder stories that move me to my core, Octavia Morgan's journey is right at the top.  In this episode, I sit down with Octavia Morgan, CEO and Creative Director of Octavia Morgan, to discuss building a fine fragrance brand rooted in intention, courage, and community. From her early mornings in meditation to the emotional moment a customer cried after finally finding a scent she could wear, this is a conversation about listening to your calling, even when it's scary. Octavia left a stable nursing career to create a fragrance brand for people like her—those with scent sensitivities who still wanted complexity, boldness, and beauty in what they wear. She shares how she took her brand “to the streets,” grew through word of mouth, and developed a fragrance line that's now carried by Ulta Beauty nationwide. This isn't just about perfume—it's about purpose. Here are a few highlights from the interview: * The meditation that sparked Octavia's leap from nursing to entrepreneurship—and the fear she had to face head-on.   * How a tearful customer showed her the deep emotional impact her product could have.   * Why Octavia sells $100+ fine fragrances at upscale markets—and how it built a grassroots community of superfans.   * The real reason so many people suffer from scent sensitivity, and how her clean, filler-free formulations are changing that.   * Her powerful advice for anyone with a dream they're too scared to pursue: “Why not you?”   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover the story of a founder who's redefining what it means to follow your intuition and create beauty with integrity. You'll walk away inspired and probably wanting to smell every scent she's ever made. For more on Octavia Morgan, visit: https://octaviamorgan.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: 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.    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 I first saw the product from NoNormal, I was intrigued. A coffee paste… in a tube? I'd never seen anything like it. But as someone who loves coffee and spends a lot of time outdoors, I instantly got the appeal.  In this episode, I chat with Alexander Haberlin, co-founder of NoNormal, about how a backcountry hike in Switzerland sparked a completely new way to experience coffee and how it evolved from a spray-painted tomato paste tube to a beautiful, functional, adventure-ready product. We go deep into the product story, the entrepreneurial journey, and the intentional choices behind flavor, packaging, and mission.   As I sipped the coffee while we talked, I was blown away. Not only is it incredibly convenient, but it also tastes great. You can drink it hot, cold, or even spread it on toast. What started as a creative solution for outdoor coffee drinkers has evolved into a ritual and is now a growing brand with a passionate community. Here are a few key takeaways from our conversation: * NoNormal's coffee paste is a first-of-its-kind, shelf-stable product made with Fairtrade Arabica beans and housed in recyclable aluminum tubes—born from a love of hiking and a need for better trail coffee.   * Alexander and his co-founder hand-filled the first prototypes in their Swiss kitchen, validating the idea via crowdfunding before going all-in on manufacturing.   * The product found early success through a mix of “chaos packaging” buzz and genuine functionality for outdoor adventurers—and even jungle explorers!   * Their biggest lesson: validate early, prototype fast, and don't be afraid to mix form and function with love and obsession over the details.   * Whether it's stirred in hot water, blended into peanut butter, or licked off a spoon during a jungle trek, NoNormal coffee is all about that magic moment of pause and pleasure in the outdoors.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and discover how a bold, unusual idea can become a beautiful, purposeful product. This isn't just a coffee story; it's a story of creativity, intention, and building something remarkable from the ground up. For more on NoNormal visit: https://nonormal.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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.   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.

I had a blast sitting down with Dan Schaefer, Founder & CEO of Native Pet.  We kicked things off with gratitude. Dan shared how his wife was his “first angel investor,” backing his leap from BCG into entrepreneurship while raising a young family. From there, we got into the big idea behind Native Pet: “around-the-bowl nutrition.” Instead of trying to replace what's in your dog's bowl, Native Pet helps pet parents customize it with clean-label, effective supplements dogs actually love to eat. Dan walked me through their earliest wins, such as transforming messy canned pumpkin into a shelf-stable powdered pumpkin with a smart fiber blend, and their breakout hit, The Daily (an all-in-one scoop inspired by human greens routines). We also dug into hard-earned lessons (hello, Target packaging panic) and a huge upcoming launch that brings today's human gut-health wave into pet wellness. Highlights * Gratitude that fuels the journey: Dan credits his wife and co-founder Pat's family for believing early, packing boxes, cheering them on, and making “zero to one” possible.   * The Native Pet thesis: Focus on supplements to personalize health “around the bowl,” so pet parents can keep their preferred food and add targeted support.   * Simple, smart innovation: From powdered Pumpkin to Omega Oil, clean-label formats and taste are non-negotiable—if dogs won't eat it, nothing else matters.   * Breakout product: The Daily—their one-scoop daily multivitamin—became Native Pet's best seller and even hit #1 in multivitamins on Amazon right after Prime Day.   * Where to find them: Online at nativepet.com, Amazon, Chewy, and nationwide at Target, Petco, PetSmart, Whole Foods, Sprouts, Tractor Supply, Meijer, Pet Supplies Plus, and more.  Plus, try the website quiz to get the right plan for your dog.   * One more thing I'm excited about: Native Pet's new GutWell line (launching August) targets specific outcomes through the microbiome—Clean Breath, Trim Down, Stress Support, Itchy Skin, and Power Poop—in a tasty, clean-label, cold-pressed pellet with bold, premium packaging. Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode: If you care about helping your dog live a happier, healthier, and longer life—and want practical ways to personalize their nutrition—you'll love this conversation. Hit play to hear the full story, the lessons learned, and what's next for Native Pet.   For more on Native Pet, visit: https://nativepet.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. 

I had the pleasure of sitting down with James Reynolds, Co-CEO and Co-founder of Coco5, and what a conversation it was.  From the South Side of Chicago to Wall Street to the beverage aisle, James's journey is packed with powerful lessons on grit, reinvention, and staying true to your purpose. He opened up about a pivotal moment in college that transformed his life — when he walked away from basketball to pursue academics — and how that same clarity of purpose led him to fall in love with a product called Coco5. What started as a health-conscious investment turned into a mission-driven beverage brand that's redefining coconut water. James and his team, including NBA stars like Devin Booker and D'Angelo Russell, took a product they genuinely loved and scaled it into a clean hydration brand backed by real athletes — and more importantly, beloved by moms and kids. Here are some key takeaways from this episode: * James shares the moment he "stopped playing small" and took charge of his future — a life-altering decision that still fuels his discipline today.   * How a chance encounter with Coco5 led him from investment banking to CPG founder, driven by a passion for health and hydration.   * The surprising truth about their core customer: it's not just athletes — it's health-conscious moms buying for their kids.   * Why saying “no” to 2,000+ Walmart stores helped them win — and how going narrow and deep created long-term success.   * The secret behind their flavor-first strategy: “Kids don't care if it's good for them — it has to taste amazing.”   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this episode — it's a powerful story of reinvention, discipline, and building a brand with lasting impact. If you've ever wondered what it takes to succeed in CPG without experience, this is a must-listen.   For more on Coco5, visit: https://coco5.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: 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 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. 

In this episode of The Story of a Brand, I sit down with Gary Redmond, co-founder of BusterBox, a subscription box that delivers joy straight to your dog's doorstep.  What started as three friends looking to create something fun and meaningful quickly became one of the fastest-growing dog subscription brands in Europe. Gary shares the ups and downs of starting a business from scratch, from packing boxes by hand in a tiny apartment to now serving thousands of happy dog parents every month. What I loved most about this conversation is how scrappy and determined Gary and his co-founders were in the early days. They didn't wait for the perfect funding or ideal setup—they just got started. Along the way, they learned how to build customer loyalty, scale their logistics, and make dogs (and their humans) incredibly happy.  It's a story about building with heart, hustling through hard times, and chasing big dreams one treat at a time. Here's what we cover: * How BusterBox started from a small apartment in Dublin with no investors * Why direct feedback from dog parents shaped their entire product strategy * The moment they knew they had product-market fit—and how they doubled down * Lessons from scaling a subscription business in the European market * Why “the dog is the customer, but the human is the buyer” Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this fun and insightful conversation with Gary. Whether you're a dog lover, an entrepreneur, or both, this episode is packed with inspiration (and probably a few tail wags too). For more on BusterBox, visit:  https://busterbox.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.

On this episode of The Story of a Brand, I sat down with Jeff Boyd, founder of MTE, a wellness brand that's redefining how we think about energy, recovery, and mood.  What started as a personal quest to feel better and support the people closest to him turned into a full-spectrum product created with intention, science, and heart. Jeff gets candid about burnout, anxiety, and how most of us are just trying to show up as our best selves in a world that doesn't make it easy. This conversation isn't just about supplements—it's about the pursuit of better living. Jeff opens up about building a product he uses every day, collaborating with a world-class team of scientists and formulators, and what it means to create something for people, not just profit.   It's clear MTE stands for “More Than Energy”—and this episode delivers more than your average brand story. Here's what we cover:   Why Jeff left his shipping business to build a product he'd be proud to give to his family   The surprising power of ingredients like saffron, ashwagandha, and paraxanthine (and why they matter)   How MTE helps create an internal environment that supports energy, focus, mood, and better sleep   The moment Jeff knew he had something special, from rapid sell-outs to a 48% repeat customer rate   What Jeff's proudest of (hint: it's not just the product—it's how people are treated)   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this heartfelt and insightful conversation with Jeff Boyd of MTE. Whether you're curious about wellness, a fellow founder, or someone looking for more balance in your life, this one's for you. For more on MTE, visit: https://getmte.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.    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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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.

What does it mean to steward a family legacy while completely rethinking how food is raised?  In this episode, I sat down with Heidi Diestel of Diestel Family Ranch, a fourth-generation turkey farmer who's not afraid to ask hard questions about the food system and make bold changes. Heidi brings a rare mix of tradition, transparency, and a challenger mindset to an industry that often resists change. We talked about everything from regenerative agriculture to redefining what “better” means in the turkey category. Heidi shares how her family is holding to their values while also pushing boundaries, such as eliminating antibiotics long before it was popular and investing in their USDA-certified plant to ensure quality and animal welfare. It's a masterclass in integrity, evolution, and sticking to your “why.” Key highlights from this episode: * Why the “status quo” in farming was never good enough for Diestel.   * How a values-first approach led to long-term decisions, such as adopting regenerative practices and owning their own plant.   * The moment Heidi realized the brand needed to challenge the category narrative.   * What it means to build trust with consumers when competing against big agriculture?   * How Diestel balances legacy and innovation in a 4th-gen family business.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this thoughtful, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to raise food with care, conviction, and courage. Whether you're in CPG, AG, or just a conscious consumer, this one will leave you inspired. For more on Diestel Family Ranch, visit: https://diestelturkey.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.

When I think of a product worth buying and a brand worth supporting, Avocado Mattress is at the top of my list.   In this episode, I sat down with Vy Nguyen, Co-CEO of Avocado Mattress, to discuss what it truly takes to build a mission-driven, vertically integrated company in a category dominated by commodity players.  Vy's story is rooted in deep gratitude for his family's immigrant journey, and he brings that same heart and intention to everything he does—from sourcing organic materials to creating calm, customer-first retail spaces. We discussed the early days of Avocado, the team's commitment to vertical integration, and how their transparency and dedication to sustainability earned them B Corp certification and customer trust. What stood out most was Vy's belief that consumers want to buy from brands doing the hard work, and his team is doing just that. Key highlights from this episode:   * How Vy's family journey from Vietnam inspired his values and entrepreneurial mindset.   * Why Avocado chose to own their manufacturing, from latex factories to inner springs.   * What makes an organic mattress truly organic—and why it's hard to fake.   * The impact of COVID and tariffs on their business (and how they adapted).   * How Avocado brings its story to life through experience centers and retail partnerships.   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this thoughtful and inspiring episode as we explore how one brand is raising the bar in an industry that's long overdue for change. If you care about clean products, radical transparency, and companies that do things the right way, this is an episode you won't want to miss. For more on Avocado Mattress, visit: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.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: 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.    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 Yanika Cordina, the founder and creative mind behind Cordina Hair, a brand built on innovation, determination, and one incredibly clever invention. What started as a DIY experiment to solve her hairstyling challenge has turned into a viral beauty tool trusted by thousands of women worldwide. Yanika walks us through her journey of turning a homemade prototype into a product featured by media outlets and sold globally. What I loved most about this conversation is Yanika's fearless approach to building from scratch, literally. We talk about everything from product development and customer feedback to the emotional rollercoaster of being a solo founder. This is a story about grit, creativity, and staying curious even when the odds feel stacked against you. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * How a wire, sponge, and hot glue gun led to a viral beauty tool * The moment a beauty editor helped spark massive exposure * Why listening to customer feedback helped evolve the product line * The power of perseverance and learning as you go * How Yanika balances creativity with business growth Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and hear how one small idea—and a whole lot of determination—turned into a brand empowering women to style with confidence. For more on Cordina Hair, visit: https://www.cordinahair.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. 

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Abbenda and Owen Martinetti, the dynamic duo behind Snoozy, a functional gummy brand that's reimagining how we think about sleep, stress, and chill.  What started as a curiosity about CBD quickly evolved into a product line that's all about helping people wind down without the fuzziness or stigma of traditional solutions. We delve into everything from product formulation to branding, as well as how they're breaking into retail by creating real value for both consumers and partners. What I loved most about this conversation is how Chris and Owen are building with intention. They're not just chasing trends—they're solving real problems with transparency, data, and a little bit of humor. Whether you're a CPG founder, wellness enthusiast, or someone who's ever struggled to sleep, this episode offers a thoughtful take on what it means to build a modern, functional brand. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * Why product experience is at the core of Snoozy's growth   * How education helps consumers overcome skepticism about functional ingredients   * What it takes to build trust in the CBD and sleep category   * Lessons from pivoting and simplifying the product line for retail success   * The importance of balancing science, taste, and storytelling   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and hear how these two founders are putting consumers first—and helping all of us rest a little easier. For more on Snoozy, visit: https://www.getsnoozy.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 Rose Hamilton, a powerhouse marketing strategist, CPG advisor, and the founder of Compass Rose Ventures.  Rose shares an honest, insightful look into what it takes to build, grow, and scale a consumer brand in today's landscape, from digital-first storytelling to the emotional resilience founders need to survive the chaos of retail and fundraising. This conversation is packed with wisdom earned from years in the trenches, advising some of the most innovative brands in beauty, beverage, wellness, and beyond. What I love most about this episode is Rose's unique blend of heart and strategy. We discuss how founders can become better storytellers, how to establish a robust marketing foundation, and why data is more than just a buzzword - it's a vital survival tool.  If you're a founder, operator, investor, or just obsessed with consumer brands, this is the episode for you. Here are a few key moments from our conversation: * Why modern CPG brands need both marketing soul and operational grit * How to shift from founder-led storytelling to storyselling * The concept of a “data room for marketing”—and why every brand needs one   Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and hear why Rose Hamilton believes brand builders are among the most creative and resilient people in the world. Whether you're scaling or just starting, her advice will leave you inspired and ready to act. For more on Compass Rose Ventures, visit: https://compassroseventures.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.    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 share insights, solve problems, and accelerate 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 C. Vivek Lal, MD, FAAP, a physician-scientist and the founder & CEO of Resbiotic, to explore the incredible connection between our gut microbiome and respiratory health.  Dr. Lal shares how his clinical work with premature infants inspired a deeper dive into gut-lung science, ultimately leading to the development of Resbiotic—a science-first wellness brand that's bridging the gap between clinical research and everyday health. What really struck me in this conversation was Vivek's blend of curiosity, care, and credibility. He's not just creating a product—he's on a mission to help people breathe easier, live better, and understand how their gut health plays a role in it all. If you're interested in functional wellness, biotech innovation, or just want to understand your body a bit better, this one is for you. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: * The gut-lung axis: what it is and why it matters * How a NICU doctor became a CPG founder * Why Resbiotic leads with clinical credibility, not marketing fluff * The challenge of translating deep science into consumer products * How education and transparency are building trust in a skeptical market Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to the episode and discover how science, storytelling, and heart are driving the next wave of health and wellness innovation. For more on Resbiotic, visit: https://resbiotic.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: 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 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.

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.