In this episode of Built in America, host Sam Mahmood sits down with Austin Long, the visionary co-founder behind Youtooz, a collectibles brand that has captivated the online creator community. Austin shares how his background in talent management for YouTube and Twitch creators helped him recognize a gap in the market for unique, creator-inspired collectibles. Since Youtooz's launch in 2019, Austin and his team have worked to make Youtooz a beloved direct-to-consumer brand, creating iconic figures that resonate with internet culture and fans worldwide.

Throughout the conversation, Austin reveals insights into Youtooz’s rapid rise, from overcoming manufacturing hurdles to developing a distinct direct-to-consumer strategy centered on community engagement and organic growth. He explains how Youtooz has set itself apart by prioritizing creator partnerships and a trial-and-error approach to product development. This episode dives deep into the challenges and rewards of building a niche brand, the role of content in fostering loyal communities, and Youtooz’s future in expanding responsibly while staying true to its roots in innovation and ethics.

Let’s keep building… 

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