The Story of a Brand

In this episode, I sit down with João Esteves, founder of DiVERGE Sneakers, a brand that's rewriting the rules of footwear from the ground up.   We discuss why customization matters, how DiVERGE puts the customer’s individuality front and center, and what it truly takes to build a business rooted in purpose, not just profit.   João opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, including the emotional resilience required to stay the course and the people who believed in him when the business needed it most. From launching a brand inspired by a Robert Frost poem to becoming a B Corp committed to people and the planet, João shares how DiVERGE is challenging mass production and the wasteful norms of the fashion industry. We also dive into the brand’s incredible social impact program that helps underprivileged youth design their own shoes and share their stories with the world. 🎙️ Key Highlights from the Episode * Why João built a brand around personalization and empowerment * The emotional resilience required to start a business later in life * How DiVERGE is combating fashion overproduction and landfill waste * The power of a B Corp to align values with action * Training underserved youth to design sneakers and share their stories Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to how DiVERGE is helping people make their own way, one custom sneaker at a time. Whether you’re into fashion, sustainability, or founder stories that go deep, this one’s for you. For more on DiVERGE Sneakers visit:  https://www.diverge-sneakers.com/en-us If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create a consistent omnichannel presence, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

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

In this episode, I sat down with Vicky Pasche, the incredible force behind Dapper Boi, a gender-inclusive, size-inclusive apparel brand with a mission rooted in confidence and authenticity.   What began as Vicky’s search for clothes that fit her body and identity has grown into a full-blown movement. From scrappy Kickstarter launches to launching on Nordstrom, this is a story of resilience, creativity, and staying true to your why. We talk about the power of fit, why confidence is Dapper Boi’s actual product, and the wild ride of building a business from scratch. Vicky doesn’t hold back; she shares the highs, the lows, the viral videos, the sacrifices (including selling her house), and what it means to truly serve a community that has long been ignored by mainstream fashion. 🔑 Key Highlights from the Episode:   * How Dapper Boi started with two sizes and a dream, and why jeans came before everything else   * The low-budget, high-impact pre-order model that scaled the brand from $30K to $1M+   * What happened on Shark Tank (and the win that came after)   * Behind-the-scenes sacrifices: selling their home to save the business   * Why Vicky believes fashion isn’t about gender—it’s about confidence   Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this empowering, heartfelt, and fun episode, which proves that clothing can do so much more than dress the body—it can transform lives. For more on Dapper Boi, visit: https://www.dapperboi.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create a consistent omnichannel presence, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Today’s Highlighted Brand: Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/ If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.  Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies. Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study!  Users of Goode Health experienced a significant improvement in their heart health in just two weeks!  Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now!

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Bronstad, CEO of Malk Organics, and talk about the journey of not just leading a clean-label brand but rebuilding it from the inside out.   Jason shares how a deeply personal career pivot led him to a mission-driven company that’s transforming the plant-based milk category, one clean ingredient at a time. We get into the weeds from SKU rationalization and shelf life extension to the emotional lessons of transparent leadership and brand stewardship. What happens when your consumers call you out on social media? You listen, and you learn, and Jason shares exactly how his team responded and evolved. 🥛 Key Moments in This Episode: * The "kerfluffle of '21" and what it taught the team about transparency   * Why fewer ingredients = harder formulations (and how they solved for it)   * How shelf life innovation unlocked national growth opportunities * What Jason learned from running a company and raising kids at the same time * How leading with humility and gratitude transformed company culture Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this thoughtful and eye-opening episode that goes beyond CPG and into the heart of leadership, brand building, and consumer trust. Whether you’re a founder, a parent, or a plant-based milk fan—this one’s for you. For more on Malk Organics, visit: https://malkorganics.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they’ve generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

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

In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with Julie Smolyansky, President, CEO, and Chairwoman of Lifeway Foods, a pioneering brand behind the kefir movement in the U.S.   We dive deep into Julie’s incredible family story, from escaping the Soviet Union with just $116 to building a nearly $200M company that now owns 95% of the global kefir category. Julie shares how her father’s dream, her mother's entrepreneurial spirit, and her own grit helped turn a probiotic-rich dairy drink into a wellness staple for millions. We also discuss the science behind kefir, staying innovative while running a public company, and how Julie is standing strong in the face of a hostile takeover attempt. This isn’t just a conversation about dairy; it’s about resilience, passion, legacy, and the powerful connection between gut health and life. Key Moments in This Episode: * 🇺🇸 Julie’s immigrant journey—from fleeing the Soviet Union to becoming a public company CEO at 27 * 🥛 Why kefir is a probiotic powerhouse—and how it supports digestion, immunity, and mental health   * 🔬 The science behind dairy-based probiotics and how they outperform supplements   * 💪 The legacy of resilience and why Julie says, “you have to learn how to take a punch”   * 🚫 How she’s fighting off a hostile takeover and defending the brand her father built Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this powerful and inspiring founder story where food meets science, heritage fuels innovation, and fighting for what matters takes center stage.  For more on Lifeway, visit:  https://lifewaykefir.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started   Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they’ve generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year.   Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning.

In this episode, I chat with Charlie Weisman, the creative force behind Staff, a brand that’s reimagining the most overlooked items in your home such as plungers, lint rollers, and oven mitts with joy, color, and a whole lot of personality.   What started as a quirky side project during the COVID lockdown turned into a design-forward brand now making waves with retailers, collaborators, and even celebrities like Drew Barrymore.   Charlie opens up about building Staff from scratch, why he didn’t tell anyone what he was working on, and how trusting his instincts (plus a little naivete in the beginning) helped him take a bold, playful idea and turn it into something unforgettable. From early retail wins to lessons in manufacturing and shipping, this one’s packed with insights and good vibes.   💡 Key Moments in This Episode:   How a cheerful plunger sparked a movement of “happy household helpers” Why Charlie believes in showing, not telling, when launching new ideas The product design process—from colored pencils to customer love How organic social media buzz and retail demand grew the brand fast Staff's approach to unexpected collabs with brands like Clorox and Instacart Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this episode, filled with creativity, optimism, and a whole new way of looking at the most ordinary objects in your home.   For more on Staff, visit:  https://meetyourstaff.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:   Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/   Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands:  https://www.augmentum-media.com/story   What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more.  Today’s Highlighted Brand:   Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/   If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.    Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies.   Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study!  Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!    Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now!

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Abel Jr., Chief Chocolate Officer of Bissinger’s, one of the oldest chocolate companies in the world, dating back to 1668.   We dive into this remarkable brand’s royal beginnings in France, its journey to the U.S., and how Dan and his family have preserved Bissinger’s timeless quality while modernizing its operations for today’s consumer. Dan shares the heartfelt moments that fueled their purpose, from handwritten letters of gratitude to surviving COVID by leaning on their direct-to-consumer strength. We also talk chocolate, real chocolate. Dan walks us through what makes Bissinger’s different, from hand-decorated truffles to multi-day candy-making processes that start with whole fruits and pure cane sugar. This episode is part business story, part masterclass in heritage and craftsmanship and all heart. 🍫 Key Moments in This Episode: 🇫🇷 How Bissinger’s became the King of France’s appointed confectioner in 1668 🏗 The family’s bold leap to revive the brand with a factory expansion and modern tech stack 📦 How e-commerce saved the business during COVID and doubled in size 💌 The handwritten letter from a global CEO that changed everything 🧁 Why Bissinger’s still uses century-old techniques, hand-paints chocolates, and sources European chocolate Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this rich and flavorful conversation where heritage meets hustle, and every chocolate tells a story.  For more on Bessinger’s visit:  https://www.bissingers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    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. 

Ever wonder why restaurant aprons haven’t changed in a hundred years?  In this episode, I sat down with father-son duo Kevin and Kieran Hoy of Smart Apron to discuss how they’re transforming a tired, overlooked product into a modern-day solution for food service workers and beyond. What started with a stitched-up fanny pack has become a functional, durable, and smartly designed product used by everyone from restaurant servers to Nike inventory teams. We dive deep into how they’ve bootstrapped their business, navigated manufacturing challenges, and used customer feedback to build a better product. From high school business projects to Amazon reviews, Smart Apron proves that listening to your customers and staying consistent can lead to real innovation. Key Moments in This Episode: 🧵 How a restaurant shift inspired the very first Smart Apron 🚧 The 10-year pause—and what brought it back to life 🎯 Why real-world feedback fuels their design process 💡 Turning a niche product into a multi-industry solution  📦 Scaling a lean, family-run business from Amazon to national retailers Join me, Ramon Vela, for this inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and why solving a small problem can lead to something big.  For more on Smart Apron, visit:  https://thesmartapron.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures- Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/ If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.  Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies. Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study!  Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!  Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now!

What does it take to build a premium wellness brand in one of the world's most regulated, misunderstood, and competitive industries?  In this episode, I sit down with David Hartigan, Founder and CEO of Hemp Heros, to talk about the real story behind his mission-driven CBD and functional mushroom company. From managing MMA fighters to becoming one of the few B Corp-certified hemp brands, David shares how a single moment of belief changed his life and how he's paying it forward through his business. David takes us behind the scenes of launching into the U.S. market, setting up U.S.-based manufacturing, creating pet products that win hearts (and tails), and building multiple brands with integrity. He's also inspired by his mother’s health journey with a new mushroom line. He’s proof that success follows when you lead with quality and purpose. 🔑 Key Moments in This Episode: 💡 The surprising story of how an MMA sponsorship sparked a business idea 🧪 Why cold-pressed hemp is the game-changer in CBD products 🐾 How pets became their biggest product category and why they’re focusing on it in the U.S. 🌱 From B Corp to seed-to-shelf: how Hemp Heros stands out in a crowded market 🇺🇸 The bold move to manufacture in the U.S. and launch with purpose-built packaging Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this inspiring and informative conversation with David Hartigan about passion, perseverance, and premium wellness done right.  For more on Hemp Heros, visit  https://hempheros.com/ For more on Blynk, visit https://www.blynkdrinks.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

What happens when two creative minds, a thriving agency founder and a comedian-turned-creator, team up to launch a better-for-you hydration brand?   You get VitaWild—a deliciously clean and thoughtfully formulated hydration and immunity blend that’s winning hearts (and taste buds).  In this episode, I sit down with Jacques Spitzer and James Schrader, co-founders of VitaWild, to talk about their passion for product integrity, building brands with intention, and why they refused to cut corners in making something their families—and yours—can feel good about drinking. They open up about the actual cost of doing things right, the power of storytelling in CPG, and how they’re using their creative roots to build something truly impactful. Key Moments in This Episode: 💧 Why taste, transparency, and trust are non-negotiables 🏗️ Lessons from building brands like Dr. Squatch (and how it shaped VitaWild) 🌱 Creating a daily hydration & immunity product with no sugar and no shortcuts 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why their kids are the ultimate taste-testers 📦 Making sustainable choices, even when they cost more Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this entertaining and inspiring episode—packed with insights, laughs, and a lot of heart.  For more on VitaWild Hydration, visit https://vitawild.co/ For more on Raindrop Agency, visit https://raindrop.agency/ For more on James Schrader, visit https://jamesschrader.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

What do you get when you combine a great-grandmother’s Swedish cookie recipe, a mother-daughter duo, and a lot of grit?   You get Spritzal, a clean-label cookie brand disrupting the cookie aisle with shortbread bites made from real, simple ingredients. In this episode, I sit down with Taylor Walker, COO and Co-founder of Spritzal, to talk about how a family recipe evolved into a brand that’s winning over retailers, shoppers, and sweet tooths alike. Taylor shares the 10-year journey of building Spritzal, from hand-pressing cookies in a home kitchen to scaling manufacturing and launching with major retailers. We also talk about what it takes to stand out in a crowded category and the power of resilience, belief, and, of course, butter. Key Moments in This Episode: 🍪 How a family recipe turned into a national cookie brand 📦 The big pivot: from clamshell packaging to resealable bags 🛒 Getting into retail: what buyers really want 📈 Bootstrapping, burnout, and the decision not to quit 🥇 Why clean ingredients and smart branding win shelf space Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Taylor Walker as we explore what makes Spritzal cookies and this brand unique.  For more on Spritzal, visit:  https://spritzal.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures- Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above.  Today’s Highlighted Brand: Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/ If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.  Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies. Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study!  Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!  Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now!

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

Women’s health should be accessible, judgment-free, and rooted in real solutions, but that hasn’t always been the case.  In this episode, I sit down with Jamie Norwood, Co-founder of Winx Health, to discuss how her brand is challenging outdated norms, improving access to essential products, and leading the charge in reproductive and vaginal health. From over-the-counter emergency contraception to at-home testing, Winx Health is redefining how women take control of their well-being. Jamie shares the challenges of breaking into retail, the impact of misinformation on women’s health, and why proactive education is just as important as the products themselves. Key Moments in This Episode: ✅ Why Women’s Health Needs More Transparency – Breaking down stigmas and outdated norms. ✅ The Road to Retail – What it takes to get women’s health products on store shelves. ✅ Myth-Busting & Misinformation – How confusion prevents women from getting the care they need. ✅ At-Home Testing & Telehealth – The future of accessible, judgment-free healthcare.   ✅ Building a Mission-Driven Brand – Lessons in advocacy, resilience, and business growth. Join me, Ramon Vela, for this powerful and necessary conversation with Jamie Norwood as we explore the future of women’s health!  For more on Winx Health, visit:  https://hellowinx.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

Jewelry isn’t just about sparkle—it’s about storytelling, sentiment, and capturing life’s most meaningful moments.   In this episode, I sit down with Simone Kendle, CEO of Wove, to discuss how this brand redefines the fine jewelry experience with custom designs, technology, and a personal touch. From engagement rings to viral moments, Simone shares how Wove is making luxury jewelry more accessible, personal, and deeply meaningful. Simone also discusses the strategy behind Wove’s recent viral success, the importance of operational excellence, and how the brand is scaling without losing its custom-first approach. Key Moments in This Episode: ✅ From Engagement Rings to Everyday Jewelry – How Wove expands beyond bridal.   ✅ The 10% Luck, 90% Preparation Rule – The truth behind viral moments.   ✅ Scaling Customization – How Wove balances handcrafted quality with technology.   ✅ The Power of Personalization – Why consumers want more than off-the-shelf jewelry.   ✅ Leading a Brand with Intentionality – Simone’s journey from startup marketing to CEO. Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this insightful and inspiring conversation with Simone Kendle and explore the future of custom fine jewelry! For more on Wove, visit https://wovemade.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave  The Story of a Brand Showa rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    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.  Today’s Highlighted Brand: Goode Health: https://www.goodehealth.com/ If you have a family history of heart disease, listen up.  Now, you can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by simply eating more polyphenols, the powerful plant nutrients found in fruits and veggies. Goode Health designed and put them all in a tasty superfood shake and conducted a clinical study!  Users of Goode Health had a significant improvement in heart health in just 2 weeks!  Visit goodehealth.com today and use promo code STORY30 for 30% off now!

What if prenatal and reproductive health went beyond pregnancy?  In this episode, I sit down with Ayla Barmmer, Founder & CEO of FullWell, to discuss the critical role of nutrition in fertility, pregnancy, and overall reproductive wellness for both women and men.  As a registered dietitian and integrative health expert, Ayla shares how evidence-based formulations, transparency, and education are changing the landscape of prenatal and fertility supplements. Ayla opens up about the science behind essential nutrients, why preconception health matters, and the industry-wide gaps FullWell is solving. Key Moments in This Episode: ✅ Beyond Prenatals: Why reproductive health isn’t just for pregnancy. ✅ The Three-to-Six-Month Rule: How nutrition before conception shapes lifelong health. ✅ Trust & Transparency in Supplements: What to look for in high-quality vitamins. ✅ Why Men’s Fertility Matters: The often-overlooked role of male reproductive health. ✅ Building FullWell: How Ayla turned clinical expertise into a mission-driven brand. Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to this insightful, science-backed conversation with Ayla Barmmer and explore the future of reproductive wellness!  For more on FullWell, visit https://fullwellfertility.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

Most sparkling water brands sound the same, look the same, and talk to the same consumer but Mike Pilkington, Co-founder & CEO of Key Sparkling Water, saw an opportunity to do things differently.   In this episode, we discuss how Key Sparkling Water is challenging the status quo with real ingredients, crafted carbonation, and a bold new approach to branding. Mike shares insights on building a brand that stands out in a crowded market, the shifting culture around alcohol, and why knowing your core consumer is key to long-term success. Key Moments in This Episode: ✅ Why the Sparkling Water Market Needed a Shake-Up – The story behind Key’s unique positioning. ✅ The Power of Real Ingredients – Why Key chose real fruit over "natural flavors" and why it matters. ✅ The Decline of Alcohol & the Rise of Better Alternatives – The cultural shift that’s changing drinking habits. ✅ Building a Brand with Intention – Why understanding your consumer on a deep level is the secret to success. ✅ Lessons from Sysco & Death Wish Coffee – What Mike learned from his corporate career and how he applied it to entrepreneurship. Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful and energizing conversation with Mike Pilkington as we explore the future of better-for-you beverages and category disruption!  For more on Key Sparkling Water, visit:  https://keysparklingwater.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above. 

What if you could naturally support your body’s appetite regulation without injections or synthetic drugs? In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Kennedy, CEO of Calocurb, to dive into a revolutionary approach to hunger management and GLP-1 activation.   Backed by 14 years of research and $30 million in funding, Calocurb is a clinically tested, plant-based supplement designed to help consumers take control of their cravings and portion size without side effects. Sarah shares how her personal journey, cutting-edge science, and a mission to transform weight management led to one of the most innovative natural solutions on the market today. Key Moments in This Episode: * The Science Behind Natural GLP-1 Activation – How Calocurb helps reduce hunger, cravings, and calorie intake. * A New Approach to Weight Management – Why controlling hormonal hunger signals is more effective than willpower alone.   * Coming Off GLP-1 Injectables? – How Calocurb is being used to help people transition off Ozempic and Wegovy.   * Debunking Diet Myths – Why weight management is about more than just “eat less, move more.”   * The Future of Health & Nutrition – Where the industry is headed and how Calocurb is leading the charge. Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful and empowering conversation with Sarah Kennedy as we explore the future of natural weight management!  For more on Calocurb, visit:  https://www.calocurb.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify. Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures- Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.  Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more.     

In today’s episode, I sit down with Yash Chavan, the founder of Saral, to talk about what’s changed in influencer marketing, what’s working right now, and how brands can build long-term, authentic partnerships with influencers. We dive into the evolution of the influencer space, why attention is the new currency, and how brands can stop wasting money on the wrong influencer deals. Yash breaks down his game-changing strategy—one that flips the script on traditional influencer marketing and helps brands build a sustainable, scalable pipeline of real advocates. If you're serious about growth, this episode is packed with must-know insights! Key Moments in This Episode: * The Attention Economy – Why getting the right kind of attention matters more than ever. * Building Your Influencer "Secret Society" – The three-layer strategy that separates successful brands from the rest. * The New Way to Pay Influencers – How brands can de-risk partnerships and only invest in proven creators. * Common Mistakes to Avoid – Why follower count means nothing without real influence. * The Future of Influencer Marketing – How AI, authenticity, and trust will shape the next wave of brand partnerships. Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful episode with Yash Chavan as we uncover the real strategies behind influencer marketing success! 🎧 For more on Saral, visit:  https://www.getsaral.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:   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.

If you love stories of resilience, grit, and entrepreneurial spirit, today’s episode is exactly that.   Meet Molly Blakeley, the powerhouse founder of Molly Bz Cookies, who went from being a single mom with just $150 to her name to building a nationally recognized brand. Molly’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—full of hustle, creative problem-solving, and an unstoppable mindset. We talk about the highs and lows of building a business, from baking cookies in her kitchen to landing in major retailers like Costco and Walmart. Molly shares the behind-the-scenes hustle, the power of saying "yes" before you figure it out, and how she turned obstacles into stepping stones for success. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a brand from the ground up, this episode is for you! Key Moments in This Episode: * The $150 Gamble – How Molly turned her last bit of money into a booming cookie business. * From Food Truck to National Brand – The creative way she tested and validated her cookie concept. * Bold Moves & No Limits – Why asking, taking risks, and ignoring self-imposed limitations led to her big break. * The Walmart Open Call Success – How Molly’s hustle landed her two golden tickets and an exclusive Walmart cookie. * Lessons in Entrepreneurship – Her insights on rejection, mindset, and pivoting to keep growing. Join us in listening to this incredible episode with Molly Blakeley as she shares the highs, the lows, and everything in between in building Molly Bz Cookies!  For more on Molly Bz Cookies, visit:  https://mollybz.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today’s Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more.