This episode is brought to you by Saral and Vdriven.  In today’s episode, we interview Ryan Espi, Co-Founder & CEO of First Light Whiskey. First Light Whiskey is a smooth, coffee-flavored whiskey that can be enjoyed neat, on ice, or mixed into your favorite cocktail.  It’s made with naturally gluten-free 99% corn whiskey, real coffee extract, and raw blue agave — crafted with love on the coast of Southern California.  Highlights include:   * His Gratitude Story  * What his mentor taught him: “All Boats Rise.”  * What he took for granted about his parents  * Taking the Van Wilder path in college  * The lesson he learned from his design firm  * How did he get started with First Light, and why  * How his hobbies and passion make him a better version of himself  * Deciding what type of company they wanted to build  * Overview and challenges of the alcohol industry  * Breaking down the First Light recipe  * Why they want people to have a First Light moment: How they named the brand  * Internal challenges as a manager and leader  * Advice for founders  * Launching a D2C offer  * What he’s proud of about the brand  Join Ramon Vela and Ryan Espi as we break down the inside story of First Light Whiskey on The Story of a Brand.  For more on First Light Whiskey, visit: https://www.firstlightwhiskey.com/  Simply search for “The Story of a Brand” on your favorite podcast player.  *  Today’s sponsors:   Vdriven - A Partner to CPG brands: https://www.vdriven.com/  Are unauthorized distributor deductions hurting your bottom line and cash flow? Vdriven has recovered over $1 million in erroneous deductions from distributors. Vdriven supports brands with deduction management and an array of services to accelerate sustainable growth. Schedule a call today.  SARAL - Your Influencer Assistant Tool for Brands): https://www.getsaral.com/champions/ramon   SARAL is offering an exclusive 14-day free trial for my listeners. They will also do a special strategy session to make sure you’re set up for success. Go to my special link. 

First Light Whiskey - Smooth Coffee-flavored Whiskey for Everyone

Welcome to The Story Of A Brand Show. Hear the unique entrepreneurial journeys of 1000+ Consumer Brand founders. We tap into the doubts, failures, wins and inspirations that come with building Consumer Brand startups in extremely competitive times. Whether you own a brand or work for one, you will learn from our guests as they share the building blocks of their brand’s evolution. Who knows, you may even discover a few new products that become faves.

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This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.   In this inspiring episode, Rose Hamilton dives into the remarkable journey of Sally Mueller, the visionary founder of Womaness, a pioneering brand in the menopause market.   From her early days at Target to the bold leap of leaving in 2010 and stepping into the entrepreneurial world, Sally shares the challenges and triumphs of creating a brand dedicated to women experiencing menopause.  Here are the main themes of this episode:   * The Genesis of Womaness: Sally Mueller recounts her career transition from Target to entrepreneurship, driven by a quest to find suitable products for perimenopause symptoms. Discover how Womaness was born out of frustration and a clear vision to fill a significant gap in the market.  * A Focus on Menopause: Explore Womaness's core mission, which centers on educating and inspiring women in their late forties and fifties. Learn about the brand’s commitment to addressing the often-ignored needs of this demographic with a comprehensive range of products focused on skin, body, supplements, and sexual wellness, excluding weight gain solutions.  * Navigating Marketing Challenges: Hear about the initial hurdles in marketing menopause-related products and how Womaness evolved its messaging towards promoting healthy aging. Find out how this strategic pivot helped them expand their reach to retail giants like Ulta Beauty and Amazon.  * Omnichannel Approach: Sally emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer preferences across different shopping platforms and the strategic move to an omnichannel approach. This segment offers valuable insights into adapting marketing and sales strategies to meet the needs of their target demographic.  * Talent and Culture: Learn about the critical role of hiring versatile talents who are not only a cultural fit but can also grow with the company. Sally shares her thoughts on the importance of engagement and alignment in building a successful team.  * Digital Revolution in Marketing: Delve into the impact of digital transformation on marketing strategies, especially in a crowded market like beauty and skincare. Sally discusses the challenges and opportunities of standing out and educating consumers about new product categories.  * The Long Game: Reflecting on the journey, Sally discusses the necessity of a long-term strategy to meet evolving consumer demands. She also shares personal insights on balancing her roles as a mother and a business owner, highlighting the importance of delegation, prioritizing sleep, and building a strong network for business growth.  Sally Mueller’s journey with Womaness is a testament to the power of vision, adaptability, and perseverance in the entrepreneurial world.   By addressing the underserved needs of women going through menopause, Womaness not only offers innovative solutions but also leads the way in breaking taboos and fostering a community of education and support.  Call to Action:   Tune in to this episode for an inspiring deep dive into Sally Mueller’s entrepreneurial spirit, the innovative approach of Womaness, and the future of women’s wellness.   For more on Womaness, visit: https://womaness.com/  Remember to subscribe and follow The Story of a Brand Show on Apple Podcast and LinkedIn for more conversations with industry leaders and to stay updated on the latest consumer products, brands, trends, retail, and beyond!   If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. Your support helps us bring you more content like this!  *  Today’s Sponsors:  Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/  Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.   SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/  Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link. 

Womaness - Keeping Women Unstoppable

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.   In this illuminating episode of “The Story of a Brand,” Ramon Vela sits down with entrepreneur Afif Ghannoum to delve into his journey of founding and scaling businesses, with a keen focus on his ventures, BIOHM Health and Small Co Capital.   Through Afif’s experiences, we explore the multifaceted challenges of entrepreneurship, particularly around the crucial aspect of raising capital.   Here’s what you can expect from this deep dive:  * Entrepreneurial Insight:  Afif shares his journey, shedding light on the hurdles and triumphs of building a business from the ground up. His story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, showcasing resilience and strategic thinking.  * Investor Relationships:  The conversation underscores the significance of building trust with investors. Afif emphasizes that beyond a compelling business idea, investors must believe in the entrepreneur themselves. This segment offers valuable advice on cultivating these critical relationships.  * Leadership Transitions:  A pivotal moment in any company’s growth is recognizing when to initiate leadership changes. Afif discusses his decision to bring in new leadership at BIOHM to catalyze growth, offering insights into the process of finding the right people for specific roles and the importance of timing in leadership transitions.  * Alternative Funding Options:  Delving into the realm of financing, Afif presents a compelling case for considering alternative funding methods, such as revenue-based funding. He outlines the advantages of these options over traditional venture capital, including no personal guarantees and minimized dilution.  * Strategic Financing Decisions:  Entrepreneurs face a complex landscape of funding mechanisms. Afif advises carefully weighing the cost of capital, the implications of personal guarantees, and the agility in accessing funds. He also highlights the importance of aligning interests with funding partners and navigating the intricacies of different funding avenues.  * Pitfalls and Opportunities:  The discussion critically examines the challenges of working with funding brokers, the risks associated with speculative ventures, and the strategic management of capital. Afif’s insights into prudent capital management are invaluable for entrepreneurs leveraging opportunities effectively.  * The Value of Relationships and Advice:  Beyond funding, Afif talks about the significance of building robust business relationships and the role of strategic advice during the funding process. He also touches upon the importance of due diligence and the unique challenges entrepreneurs face in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sector.  Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or intrigued by the intricacies of building and funding a business, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge, experiences, and strategies from Afif Ghannoum’s entrepreneurial adventure.   Join us as we uncover the lessons, challenges, and successes that define the entrepreneurial spirit.  For more on Small Co Capital, visit: https://smallcocapital.com/  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review and give us a follow on Apple Podcast.   Your support helps us bring you more content like this!  *  Today’s Sponsors:  Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/  Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.    SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/  Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link.

Small Co Capital - Building & Funding a Brand with Afif Ghannoum

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.   In this inspiring episode, Ramon Vela explores the entrepreneurial journey of Jeremy Kopeck, Co-Founder and CEO of NOA Home. Kopeck shares his story of growing a $50,000 investment into a remarkable $23 million revenue over four years.   It’s a tale that underscores the essence of entrepreneurship, including the critical importance of trust, risk-taking, and the undeniable power of human connections.   Join us as we explore the highs and lows of building a brand that’s as much about family values as it is about offering quality, artisanal products to the market.  Main Themes:  * The Foundation of Trust and Integrity: Learn how a partnership based on shared vision and integrity was pivotal during a typhoon-induced crisis, setting a precedent for the company’s ethos.  * Personal Commitment and Brand Ethos: Discover the significance behind the name NOA Home and how it reflects the company’s dedication to comfort, quality, and family.  * Overcoming Challenges through Resilience: Jeremy discusses facing and overcoming challenges, including supply chain disruptions and the pandemic, focusing on resilience and maintaining core values.  * The Art of Bootstrapping: A Deep Dive into How NOA Home Achieved Significant Growth without External Investors, highlighting the effectiveness of financial management and market understanding.  * A Customer-Centric Approach: This paper provides insights into the importance of direct feedback and exceptional customer service and their role in refining NOA Home’s offerings.  * Future Plans and Expansion: Exciting details on expanding the product line with American-made items and growing the ambassador program to reinforce the brand’s commitment to quality and community.  * A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Jeremy shares words of encouragement for future entrepreneurs, emphasizing perseverance, a customer-centric approach, and the importance of holding onto one’s values.  About NOA Home:   NOA Home has emerged as a leading name in the B2C industry, known for its artisanal products, storytelling approach to customer engagement, and unwavering commitment to quality and community.   From overcoming natural disasters to navigating the complexities of market dynamics, NOA Home’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and an unrelenting focus on what truly matters.  Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone who appreciates a success story, this episode offers valuable insights into the realities of starting and scaling a business today.  Tune in to learn, be inspired, and find the spark you need to start your journey of resilience and success.  For more on NOA Home, visit: https://www.noahome.com/us/  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review and give us a follow on  Apple Podcast.   Your support helps us bring you more content like this!  *  Today’s Sponsors:  Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/  Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.  SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/  Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link. 

NOA Home - The Art of Bootstrapping

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.   Welcome to another enlightening episode in which Ramon Vela dives deep into the journey of Mike Mahar, a visionary entrepreneur and partner at Digital Stronghold.   The Digital Stronghold is a multi-brand platform supporting leading digitally native men’s apparel, accessories, and grooming brands in accelerating their growth.  Mike shares his fascinating career trajectory, valuable insights from his tenure with Taylor Stitch, and current endeavors shaping the future of men’s interest brands.   Below are the key highlights of our conversation:  * Gratitude and Reflecting on a Mentor’s Impact Mike reflects on the impact of a high school teacher who influenced his passion for business and entrepreneurship.  * Taylor Stitch Update Post-Pandemic Update on Taylor Stitch post-pandemic, focusing on product development, customer needs, and business strategies.  * Introduction to Digital Stronghold Introduction to Digital Stronghold, a holding company for men’s interest brands, and its vision to acquire profitable brands.  * Consumer-Centric Approach of Digital Stronghold Discuss how Digital Stronghold aims to enhance the consumer experience by supporting founders and improving operational efficiency.  * Evaluating Apparel Brands for Investment Learn about the key criteria Digital Stronghold uses to evaluate apparel brands for investment, including financial benchmarks and customer retention rates.  * Embracing Niche Brands Discover the value Digital Stronghold places on niche brands that focus on building a dedicated customer base, like the success story of Boston Scally in their portfolio.  * Supporting Acquired Brands Explore the comprehensive support Digital Stronghold provides to acquired brands post-deal, covering areas such as finance, digital optimization, marketing, and logistics.  * Inclusivity in Brand Acquisition Understand Digital Stronghold’s openness to brands with diverse product lines, including gender-neutral options, and how they assess brands for investment opportunities.  * Navigating Challenges in Brand Acquisition Delve into the challenges Digital Stronghold faces in finding and acquiring brands, including the impact of market dynamics and the importance of knowing your customer for successful paid media strategies.  Call-to-Action: Mike encourages interested brand founders in the men’s interest space to connect for potential investment opportunities.  For more on Digital Stronghold, visit: https://thedigitalstronghold.com/  Remember to subscribe and follow The Story of a Brand Show on Apple Podcast and LinkedIn for more conversations with industry leaders and to stay updated on the latest consumer products, brands, trends, retail, and beyond!   If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. Your support helps us bring you more content like this!  *  Today’s Sponsors:  Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/  Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.  SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/  Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link. 

Digital Stronghold - Where Men’s Interest Brands Go to Thrive

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose Ventures and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands.   In this inspiring episode, Ramon Vela dives into the fascinating world of entrepreneurship with a unique twist – mushrooms.   His guests, Co-Founders Stephanie Moyal and Jake Mellman, are the innovative minds behind Troop, a company reshaping how we view and consume mushrooms.   Their story is not just about mushrooms; it’s a tale of resilience, innovation, and the power of a robust support system.  Main Themes:  * The Birth of Troop During Challenging Times: Discover how Stephanie and Jake embarked on their entrepreneurial journey amidst the COVID-19 lockdown, transforming their mushroom passion into a thriving business.  * Gratitude and Support: The founders emphasize the crucial roles of gratitude, family support, and self-belief in navigating the ups and downs of starting a new venture. They share anecdotes highlighting how these elements were instrumental in their success.  * Demystifying Mushrooms: Stephanie and Jake discuss their mission to make mushrooms more appealing and accessible through innovative products like gummies. They delve into the challenges and rewards of educating the public about mushrooms' health benefits and potential, aiming to destigmatize this versatile ingredient.  * Sustainability and Quality: Learn about Troop’s commitment to sustainability, from choosing eco-friendly packaging to sourcing premium mushrooms. The founders detail the meticulous research and development process that goes into creating their unique mushroom gummies, including custom molds that embody the essence of their brand.  * Education and Networking: The importance of continuous learning, networking, and strategic planning for budding entrepreneurs. Stephanie and Jake share valuable insights into how they navigated the complexities of product development and market introduction with no prior experience in the mushroom industry.  * Health Benefits and Applications: The conversation also covers mushrooms' potential health benefits, from digestive support to mental health and immune system enhancement. The founders discuss their approach to product development, focusing on vegan-friendly, potent extracts made through a triple extraction method.  * Looking Forward: As Troop grows, Stephanie and Jake reflect on their journey and plans. They highlight the importance of quality, consumer education, and expanding their product line to include offerings with immune-boosting and stress-reducing properties.  Closing Thoughts:  Stephanie and Jake’s journey with Troop is a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and the impact of reimagining traditional ingredients for modern consumers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, health, and wellness or looking for inspiration.  Remember to check out Troop’s mushroom gummies and other products by visiting Trytroop.com and learning more about how they’re changing the health and wellness industry game.  For more on Troop, visit: https://trytroop.com/  For our listeners, a 20% discount for Troop, use promo code: Ramon20  Remember to subscribe and follow The Story of a Brand Show on Apple Podcast and LinkedIn for more conversations with industry leaders and to stay updated on the latest consumer products, brands, trends, retail, and beyond!   If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. Your support helps us bring you more content like this!  *  Today’s Sponsors:  Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ramon/  Compass Rose is offering “no-cost” CPG advice exclusively for the Founders and CEOs featured on The Story of a Brand Show and listeners. The calendar is limited, so book your one-on-one call (a $500 Value) with the Compass Rose team today. Visit using our unique link.    SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/  Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link. 

First Light Whiskey - Smooth Coffee-flavored Whiskey for Everyone

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