Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast DTC POD: How The Best Brands Are Built

Scott Dancy is the founder and CEO of Azuna, a fast-growing brand in the natural air freshener space. With a background in staffing, technology, and several entrepreneurial ventures, Scott started Azuna in Buffalo in 2019, scaling the business from hand-packaging orders to becoming the world’s largest purchaser of tea tree oil and achieving significant success in both DTC and Amazon channels.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Scott shares his journey of launching Azuna, from navigating supply chain challenges and product R&D to unlocking consistent growth and managing cash flow as order volumes soared. He covers the pivotal product decisions, strategies for boosting AOV, lessons from high-profile partnerships, and Azuna’s approach to retail expansion. Scott also offers practical advice for founders on knowing their numbers, avoiding expensive mistakes, and building a team that’s invested in the brand’s success.

Episode brought to you by Stord - 3PL for Commerce
Episode brought to you by EMF Radar - Health Starts with EMF Safety in mind

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Scott Dancy’s entrepreneurial background and Azuna’s origin story
2. Early-stage bootstrapping: packaging, fulfillment, and ad writing
3. Scaling operations: manufacturing, 3PLs, and hiring expert talent
4. Product and packaging strategy: sustainable materials, bundling, and raising AOV
5. Building a brand moat with proprietary tea tree oil sourcing
6. Subscription economics and customer retention strategies
7. Navigating cash flow, funding growth, and working with MCAs
8. Knowing key metrics: revenue, gross profit, AOV, and cash allocation
9. D2C vs Amazon vs retail channel strategy
10. In-house vs agency operations and pitfalls
11. Brand marketing and influencer partnerships
12. Lessons learned from sports and celebrity partnerships
13. Timing retail entry and optimizing product mix for channels
14. Importance of customer service and product quality
15. Entrepreneurial learnings: failures, details, and staying data-driven

Timestamps
00:00 Scott Dancy’s background and founding Azuna
03:05 The “aha moment”—tea tree oil product discovery
04:10 Early days of hand-packaging, first sales, COVID impact
05:36 Scaling up: building the team, manufacturing, growth in Buffalo
07:14 Transition to 3PL and challenges of scaling past $10M
08:10 Product development, bundling, and packaging strategy
10:05 Target audience and tea tree oil sourcing
13:41 Growth channels: Meta, Google, and influencer seeding
15:53 Subscription model economics and retention
19:03 Funding growth: inventory buys, cash flow, using Clearco
22:24 Data-driven decisions and knowing your numbers
26:25 Channel mix: Amazon, DTC, retail launch, pricing strategy
32:00 Learning from agency mistakes and shiny object syndrome
35:06 Retail timing, product mix, and learnings from entering stores
42:02 Brand partnerships: AKC, NFL, influencer marketing
46:44 Final lessons and what Scott would have done differently
47:50 Where to find Azuna and connect with Scott

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!
DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Scott Dancy - CEO & Founder of Azuna
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Graham Rigby is the President and CEO of the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), the leading trade association for the herbal products industry. With 20 years of experience across startups and industry leadership—including serving as Chief Innovation Officer at Care/of—Graham has helped shape how modern supplement brands navigate regulation, formulation, and go-to-market strategy.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Graham shares what it actually takes to launch and scale a supplement brand without getting burned by regulators. He breaks down exactly where the line is between claims that sell and claims that get you in trouble, why so many founders get blindsided by FDA and FTC enforcement, and how to work with contract manufacturers when you're just starting out. Graham also gets into the real opportunity in supplements right now—why clinical trials cost 90% less than they did two decades ago, how AI is changing the formulation game, and why a $70 billion market growing at 6.5% still has plenty of room for new entrants. Plus, his take on the brands that are doing it right, from AG1 to Ritual, and what founders can learn from their playbooks.

Episode brought to you by Stord - 3PL for Commerce
Episode brought to you by EMF Radar - Health Starts with EMF Safety in mind

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. The evolution and growth of the herbal supplement industry
2. Key regulatory milestones: DSHEA, GMPs, and FDA compliance for supplements
3. What founders must do to stay compliant when launching a supplement brand
4. The distinction between pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and nutraceuticals
5. Marketing, claims, and the importance of substantiation
6. Emerging opportunities with clinical trials and claim innovation
7. DTC, Amazon, TikTok, and brick-and-mortar distribution channels for wellness brands
8. The practicalities and risks of supplement retail (and when to scale beyond DTC)
9. Practitioner and non-traditional channels for supplement sales
10. How Ingredient AI, Infinite Garden, and other platforms are applying AI to supplements
11. Content creators, credentialed doctors, and the new face of trusted health advice
12. The role of diagnostics, wearables, and personalization in driving supplement trends
13. Growth outlook: Why the supplement market is just getting started

Timestamps
00:00 Intro to DTC POD and Graham Rigby
02:25 20 years of supplements: Startup vs. regulatory side
03:00 The exponential growth of the herbal products market
04:44 Regulatory basics: DSHEA, FDA oversight, and GMPs explained
07:14 How AHPA helps brands navigate compliance and education
08:03 Launching a supplement brand: Key compliance steps and best practices
10:00 FDA’s post-market regulatory process and founder responsibilities
13:04 Supplements vs. pharmaceuticals: Safety, claims, and approvals
17:32 Telling stories and using clinical research for marketing claims
20:00 What marketers can and cannot say: Health vs. disease claims
22:04 Substantiating claims and the importance of compliance for growth
24:31 Label vs. online claims: How rules apply to different channels
27:02 DTC vs. Amazon, TikTok, and expanding to retail and practitioner channels
30:19 The risks and rewards of brick-and-mortar expansion
35:14 AI and technology’s role in supplement industry efficiency and safety
40:47 The rise of content creators and doctors shaping supplement education
46:34 Diagnostics, wearables, and the future of personalized wellness
51:13 Supplement industry outlook and advice for emerging brands
52:25 How to connect with Graham and AHPA, and upcoming founder programs

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!
DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Graham Rigby - President & CEO of American Herbal Products Association (AHPA)
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Natalia Chappell is the founder of Natalia Chappell & Co, a UK-based consultancy helping luxury and lifestyle brands scale sustainably. Previously, she led marketing for THG's luxury division, working with brands like Coach and Ralph Lauren across price points from hundreds to thousands of pounds.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Natalia breaks down what it really takes for US brands to win in the UK—and why so many get it wrong. She shares the full-funnel mistakes she sees premium brands make over and over, why some household US names thrived in Britain while others quietly retreated, and what's actually driving results on Meta right now. She also gets into how to connect with younger consumers who think differently about spending, and why the old playbook of polished content isn't cutting it anymore. Plus, her journey from corporate marketing leader to female founder, and what she wishes more people understood about building a business as a woman.

Episode brought to you by Stord

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Lessons from high-growth UK e-commerce brands 
2. Creating sustainable, holistic marketing strategies
3. Using data and analytics to drive channel mix decisions
4. Optimizing for paid and organic synergy
5. Landing page and website audit best practices
6. UGC, influencer, and creator partnership frameworks
7. Onboarding and managing creators for conversion and brand fit
8. Navigating UK logistics, customs, and local expectations
9. How to adapt brand voice and content for UK consumer
10. UK cultural moments and how to plan campaigns around them
11. Success stories (Drunk Elephant, Ralph Lauren, Coach) and why some US brands flop
12. Digital-first approaches to brand building
13. Upcoming trends—partnership ads, authentic content, and Gen Z consumers
14. Supporting and growing as a female founder in e-commerce

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to DTC POD and episode with Natalia Chappell
01:18 Natalia’s background: fashion, digital marketing, luxury brand experience
03:26 Lessons learned building luxury and beauty e-commerce teams
05:16 Becoming a female founder and launching Natalia Chappell & Co
07:22 The type and scale of brands Natalia’s agency works with
09:07 Optimizing paid-to-organic mix for sustainable growth
12:12 Data, analytics, and the importance of first-party data integrity
13:33 Why understanding inventory and offer depth matters before scaling ads
16:26 Building a marketing flywheel that feeds itself
18:50 Audience segmentation, CRM, and conversion optimization
20:08 Attribution modeling and keeping data integrations clean
22:29 Organic growth: auditing website, SEO, landing pages, and reviews
24:03 Content strategy: authentic UGC, influencers, and the UK market
26:58 Equipping creators for conversion, not just reach
29:25 Structuring affiliate and creator programs, commissioning vs. flat fees
33:01 Logistics: Warehousing, customs, and UK delivery expectations
36:54 Adapting voice, copy, and calendar to resonate in the UK
38:34 Brand case studies: Drunk Elephant, Coach, Ralph Lauren
41:09 Why some US brands struggle in the UK (Forever 21, etc.)
44:21 Trends to watch: partnership ads, content authenticity, Gen Z targeting
47:25 Where to find and connect with Natalia Chappell

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Natalia Chappell - Founder of Natalia Chappell & Co.
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Martin Forde is the co-founder and partner at Highline Brands, a retail brokerage built for modern CPG and emerging brands. As the first sales hire at Dr. Squatch, he helped lead the brand's Walmart launch—which did over $50M in year one and set the foundation for a $1.5B exit to Unilever.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Martin shares the full playbook for making the leap from DTC to retail. He breaks down how to evaluate which channels make sense, what buyers actually care about (hint: it's not your brand), how to pitch them, and how to choose the right brokerage partner. He also gets into the operational side: how deals are structured, why retail timelines take longer than most founders expect, and what actually drives velocity on shelf.

Episode brought to you by Stord

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. When to consider retail (and when you're not ready)
2. Independent retail vs. major retailers: where to start
3. The old DTC-first playbook vs. the new hybrid approach
4. Understanding your consumer and choosing the right retailer
5. What buyers actually care about (hint: category growth, not your brand)
6. Three ways to reach buyers: cold outreach, inbound, or through a broker
7. Why and when to say no to a retailer
8. How brokers work: deal structures, retainers vs. commission, red flags
9. The 9-12 month timeline from first conversation to shelf
10. Merchandising and digital tactics that drive velocity on shelf

Timestamps
00:00 Martin Forde’s background and experience in CPG
03:14 Launching and scaling brands into retail
04:20 Key lessons from Dr. Squatch retail rollout
07:30 Dr. Squatch’s early days and pent-up retail demand
09:39 Defining “why retail” and evaluating retail opportunities
10:38 Understanding independent retail channels and platforms
15:14 Retail supply chain basics: MOQs, case packs, and 3PLs
17:46 Testing and iterating supply chain through small-scale channels
18:56 Leveraging online marketplaces (Faire, Thrive, Bubble)
23:33 Deciding when to break into retail; timing and strategy
24:44 Comparing DTC-first and direct-to-retail playbooks
29:28 Raising capital, prepping for retail, and first retail sale process
30:57 How to approach retail buyers and pitch
34:03 Different ways to reach retail buyers: direct outreach, inbound, brokerages
39:51 Working with brokers: models, deal structures, and choosing a partner
50:29 Preparing retail pitch materials and buyer presentations
51:39 Identifying category white space and incremental value
54:53 Merchandising and digital tactics for retail success
57:06 Where to connect with Martin Forde and closing thoughts

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Martin Forde - Co-Founder of Highline Brands
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Oisin O'Connor is the CEO and co-founder of Recharge, the leading subscription management platform powering 75% of all Shopify subscriptions. Under his leadership, Recharge has become a critical infrastructure partner for over 30,000 brands, reaching 100 million subscribers and $100 million ARR.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Oisin pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to win with subscriptions in today’s DTC landscape. He shares insider strategies for subscriber growth, optimizing retention, and leveraging Recharge’s newest AI-powered tools to minimize churn. Oisin also shares specific benchmarks every brand should measure, real-world examples of subscription funnels that convert, and actionable experiments operators can run to unlock long-term profitability and scale.

Episode brought to you by Stord

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Evolution of subscriptions in physical product e-commerce
2. How to spot and create product-market fit 
3. Differentiators that set Recharge apart from early competitors
4. The compounding power of subscriptions for long-term growth
5. Unit economics, LTV vs CAC, and why retention is king
6. What best-in-class subscription brands do differently
7. Optimizing conversion funnels for subscriber growth
8. Subscription benchmarks: churn rates, retention, and second order metrics
9. Reducing churn with data, cancellation flows, loyalty, and rewards
10. Automations and integrating Recharge with supply chain and 3PL operations
11. Leveraging AI Concierge for customer retention and support
12. Evolving customer experience and the need for seamless subscription management
13. How Recharge guides merchants with data, support, and innovation
14. Experiments and mistakes founders make launching subscription brands

Timestamps
00:00 Oisin’s background, founding story, and early agency experiments
04:06 The rise of Shopify and the breakthrough with Recharge
05:19 The subscription model: initial skepticism and quirky early adopters
06:47 Technical challenges in enabling subscriptions on Shopify
09:00 First major subscription brand success story
10:15 Compounding growth through subscriptions
11:36 Legacy brands and decades-long customer retention
13:06 Building DTC businesses with sustainable unit economics
14:37 Lessons from TV advertising history and the narrowing of scalable models
16:29 Key traits of successful subscription businesses
17:09 Product, recurring need, and conversion strategy
18:27 Understanding subscriber value and optimizing acquisition
19:26 Retention: keeping customers post-acquisition  
19:52 High-performing brands and funnel design
20:05 Subscription by default, offers, upsells, and cross-sells
21:39 Conversion tactics from PDP to post-checkout
22:38 Benchmarks for healthy churn and retention
23:06 How top brands reduce churn and track performance
24:58 Recharge tools: analytics, cancellation flows, Klaviyo integration
26:41 Rewards and automations to boost retention
27:33 Automate flows for backend fulfillment and logistics
28:20 Launching AI SMS concierge for subscriber experience
29:40 Reducing customer service friction and delighting shoppers
32:15 Customer experience as a core differentiator
34:04 The competitive subscription landscape: Recharge’s position
35:41 Product innovation, support, and actionable guidance
37:16 Data-driven product innovation and merchant success
38:04 The future of subscription, retention, and platform innovation
40:38 Biggest mistakes founders make with subscriptions
41:58 Experiments founders should run with Recharge
42:58 Where to connect with Oisin for advice and mentorship

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Oisin O'Connor - Co-Founder and CEO of Recharge
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Zeke Bronfman is the co-founder and CEO of The Absorption Company, a brand pioneering highly bioavailable supplements engineered for optimal nutrient absorption. With a background in health and wellness entrepreneurship—including a previous successful beverage exit—Zeke leads a team on a mission to address a major gap in supplement efficacy by focusing on real, measurable impact for consumers.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Zeke details the journey of building The Absorption Company from inception to rapid retail success in outlets like Erewhon. He talks about the science behind absorption, launching with a powerful community-driven strategy, and the importance of brand-led product innovation. Zeke also offers practical advice on supply chain management, leveraging celebrity co-founders, and lessons learned about optimizing e-commerce for long-term growth.

Episode brought to you by Stord

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. The founding story of The Absorption Company
2. Why most supplements fail—and how absorption is the next frontier
3. Creating a viral pre-launch private Instagram community
4. Setting a brand apart with science-backed, lifestyle-driven design
5. Early product development and MVP lessons
6. Direct-to-consumer subscription as a growth engine
7. Amazon, TikTok Shop, and the online channel mix
8. The strategic approach to selective retail partnerships
9. Managing the supply chain: co-packers, fulfillment, and scaling ops
10. How to keep operations simple, resilient, and cost-effective
11. Lessons in traffic acquisition: organic, paid, and influencer mix
12. Celebrity founder advantages, limits, and effective deployment
13. Funding, initial capital requirements, and brand investment
14. Biggest founder learnings and operational takeaways
15. What’s ahead: innovation pipeline and future growth

Timestamps
00:00 Intro to Zeke Bronfman and The Absorption Company
02:44 The absorption problem in supplements
04:40 Why bioavailability is the future of wellness supplements
06:11 Bringing the brand to life: Team, tech, and community-building
07:47 The private Instagram launch strategy and viral pre-sale
09:27 The power of exclusivity and early consumer engagement
11:12 Product MVP and standout branding decisions
13:26 Early sales strategy: DTC, Amazon, retail mix
15:04 Why big-box retail isn’t always the right move
17:57 Scaling DTC: Subscription, platform choices, and LTV
19:04 Driving traffic: Paid, organic, influencer, and celebrity co-founder impact
20:38 TikTok Shop: Affiliate, Live, and what works (and doesn’t)
22:36 Capital, startup costs, and launching with impact
25:32 Building a scalable supply chain and minimizing complexity
27:25 Fulfillment operations and splitting inventory
29:00 Entering boutique/strategic retail as a marketing lever
30:52 Biggest learnings and missteps scaling Absorption Company
33:13 Lessons using celebrity/influencer as a brand amplifier
36:10 What’s next: Upcoming innovations and business growth
36:50 Where to follow Absorption Company

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Ezekiel Bronfman - Co-Founder and CEO of The Absorption Company
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Danielle Kidney is the founder of The Creative Pack, a Los Angeles-based agency specializing in packaging design for CPG and DTC brands. With over two decades of experience in the industry—including work with Tesco and a diverse portfolio of well-known consumer brands—Danielle brings a wealth of expertise in every aspect of packaging, from strategy and brand storytelling to materials and production.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Danielle breaks down the behind-the-scenes process of creating packaging that not only looks great but also delivers on function, compliance, and scalability. She covers everything from the earliest stages of design and competitor audits, to the nuances of materials, regulatory requirements, and print production. Danielle shares practical advice on how brands can avoid costly mistakes, streamline their supply chain, and create packaging that stands out both online and on the shelf.

Episode brought to you by Stord

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. The importance of packaging in brand perception and sales
2. Process: From initial idea to production-ready design
3. Building a design brief and establishing project scope
4. Competitive reviews and designing for hierarchy and function
5. Balancing creative innovation with must-have regulatory details
6. Collaborating with clients, manufacturers, and printers
7. Prototyping, mockups, and unboxing experience
8. Print technology, material choices, and cost management
9. Regulatory review, legal claims, and compliance essentials
10. Lead times, timeline planning, and pitfalls of rushing production
11. Early-stage packaging vs. scaling up for retail and DTC
12. Lessons learned: common mistakes and strategic tips
13. Pricing, form factor, and packaging design as sales levers

Timestamps
00:00 Introducing Danielle Kidney & The Creative Pack
05:42 The Creative Pack’s client process: from idea to brief
10:50 Balancing branding vs. functionality for sales and conversion
18:03 Manufacturing realities: materials, dielines, and cost constraints
24:39 Colors, mockups, and bringing digital designs to life
26:22 Real-world costs of packaging mistakes and risk mitigation
29:27 Regulatory musts: nutrition facts, barcodes, legal pitfalls
35:10 Realistic timelines for packaging launches and scale
40:33 Strategies for startups vs. brands scaling up
43:23 Lessons learned and tips for optimizing packaging decisions
50:20 Where to connect with Danielle and The Creative Pack

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

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DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Danielle Kidney - Founder of The Creative Pack
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Meenakshi Lala is the CEO of UrbanStems, an online floral gifting company that designs, sources, and delivers high-quality, curated bouquets and gifts across the U.S. She brings over two decades of operational experience from leading brands in fashion and retail such as Alice + Olivia, Juicy Couture, and Elie Tahari. Her expertise in scaling complex businesses and building operational excellence now fuels UrbanStems’ growth as a leader in the industry.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Blaine and Meenakshi explore the complex world of DTC flower delivery: from sourcing stems globally, managing cold chain logistics, forecasting inventory, and reducing spoilage, to ensuring the end customer receives a high-quality bouquet every time. Meenakshi candidly discusses the challenges of seasonality, tariffs, international shipping, and why a robust brand and customer-centric approach are keys to thriving in today’s fast-moving e-commerce landscape.

Episode brought to you by Stord

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. The complexities of the floral industry and perishability
2. The evolution of e-commerce in the flower business
3. Building a robust and agile international supply chain
4. Cold chain logistics and fulfillment center operations
5. Planning, forecasting, and reducing spoilage in inventory
6. Unique challenges: tariffs, customs, and unpredictable events
7. Customer experience: packaging, instructions, and communications
8. Curation, personalization, and expanding gifting moments
9. Driving growth through brand, loyalty, and education
10. Lessons learned in leadership and staying agile

Timestamps
00:00 Meenakshi’s career journey and joining UrbanStems
04:49 Key learnings from legacy brands and focus on brand ethos
07:21 Operational challenges unique to the floral industry
11:00 The evolution of flowers in e-commerce and UrbanStems’ role
14:28 How Urban Stems’ supply chain is structured for freshness
16:37 International sourcing, design, and bouquet assembly process
18:27 Managing supply chain risks: tariffs and customs
21:45 Inventory planning, spoilage, and matching supply to demand
24:45 Supply chain as a business moat and high-precision operation
25:36 Customer fulfillment: hydration, packaging, and experience
28:34 Packaging complexities and spec sheets per SKU
30:08 Lessons from moving from COO to CEO
32:19 How operational expertise shapes strategic leadership
34:17 Customer feedback and new initiatives at UrbanStems
38:02 Growth channels: brand loyalty, curation, and gifting moments
41:58 Biggest CEO learnings and future outlook
43:51 Where to find Meenakshi and UrbanStems online

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Meenakshi Lala - CEO at UrbanStems
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Natan Bershtel is the Director of Business Development at Pelagic, a fractional supply chain partner for growing brands and CPG companies. Before Pelagic, Natan spent nearly 20 years as a public school teacher before joining and eventually running his family’s contract packaging business—where he worked with iconic names like Seed, Liquid IV, Celsius, and Element. After his company’s exit, Natan teamed up with John Morgan to help brands avoid common operational pitfalls and build supply chains that scale.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Natan breaks down what it takes to build a resilient supply chain at every stage of brand growth. He shares practical strategies to avoid common pitfalls, tips on sourcing the right partners, and insights on how successful brands approach manufacturing, fulfillment, and logistics. Natan also highlights why supply chain is core to a brand’s success and how founders can create real competitive advantages by making supply chain decisions based on quality, relationships, and flexibility.

Episode brought to you by Stord

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Importance of supply chain in DTC and omnichannel brands
2. Key players: sourcing, manufacturing, co-packers, 3PLs, and fulfillment
3. Differences in supply chain needs for emerging vs. established brands
4. Supply chain pitfalls and how to avoid them
5. Vetting, relationship-building, and collaboration with your supply chain partners
6. Overlooked areas of supply chain where founders lose time/money
7. How to approach minimum order quantities and negotiations
8. When to outsource fulfillment vs. doing it yourself
9. Logistics of manufacturing, packaging, and distribution
10. The impact of scale on supply chain decisions
11. Using data and timelines to make faster, smarter choices
12. Leveraging agency and partner networks for supply chain speed
13. Why in-person vendor relationships are crucial
14. How truly great supply chains build brand moats

Timestamps
00:00 Intro and the state of supply chain in DTC
01:40 Natan Bershtel’s background and path to Pelagic
02:24 Lessons from growing a contract packaging family business
04:11 Why supply chain is the backbone of every brand
05:28 The role of execution vs. creative vision in CPG
07:09 How to find and vet the best manufacturing/packaging partners
11:15 The agency advantage: getting reps and sharing supply chain intel
12:41 Core players in bringing a product to market
15:04 Aligning supply chain strategy with brand vision and goals
16:56 Two playbooks for scaling: bootstrap profit vs. capital-intensive growth
19:48 Timelines—how to ask supply partners the right questions
21:41 How and when to ask for what you need from partners
26:32 End-to-end product launch: manufacturing, packaging, and fulfillment
28:42 When to move fulfillment to a 3PL (and when to keep it in-house)
33:15 Tech and process innovation at leading 3PLs
35:14 Strategic decisions: packaging, location, and unit economics
38:58 Challenging assumptions and reviewing supply chain regularly
42:08 Supply chain as brand moat and advantage
44:13 Final tips: Always go in-person and build real relationships

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Natan Bershtel - Director of Business Development at Pelagic
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Brent Vartan is Managing Partner and Co-Founder at Bullish, a unique hybrid combining a branding agency and a consumer-focused venture fund. With decades of experience in brand strategy, Brent and his team have been early investors and builders behind some of the most iconic DTC and consumer brands of the past decade, including Peloton, Warby Parker, Casper, Harry's, Hu, Bubble, and more.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Brent shares his perspective on what it takes to build generational consumer brands from the earliest stages. He discusses Bullish's hands-on investment approach, the importance of brand strategy as a growth mechanism, and what differentiates brands that become household names. Brent also breaks down real playbooks from companies like Sunday Lawn and Nom Nom, providing founders concrete advice on what it takes to build brands worth talking about—and worth buying.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Bullish’s hybrid brand agency and VC model
2. What it means to invest as “first money” and why it matters
3. The difference between building a business and building a brand
4. Why customer lifetime value (CLV) trumps CAC and COGS
5. Product-market fit: moving from awareness to lifetime value
6. How Bullish supports brands like Harry’s and Nom Nom in their earliest days
7. Tactical advice for founders on capital raising and allocation
8. Building brands for acquisition vs. IPO
9. The playbook for becoming an acquisition target (what buyers actually want)
10. The underrated power of innovation and product launches
11. The role of cultural relevance in DTC brand building
12. Real-world examples from Sunday Lawn, Peloton, Bubble Beauty, and more
13. How great DTC brands focus on AOV, CLV, and brand loyalty
14. Pitfalls to avoid around capital structure and loss of momentum

Timestamps
00:00 Introducing Brent Vartan and Bullish
03:49 Bullish’s track record and notable investments
05:22 What makes Bullish different
10:10 Investing as “first money,” how Bullish evaluates concepts
13:19 Patterns Bullish looks for in breakout DTC brands
16:09 Deep dive: Sunday Lawn’s growth and strategy
18:36 Positioning Harry’s and building a hundred-year business
21:04 Timelines, capital, and operational realities for breakout brands
23:37 Building for acquisition vs. IPO: how strategies diverge
28:57 What buyers are really seeking in DTC acquisitions
31:47 Nom Nom’s Mars acquisition and the power of niche audiences
33:59 The importance of cultural relevance and taking creative “shots”
35:32 Bubble Beauty: case study in innovation and customer engagement
38:27 Finding the right capital structure and maintaining founder equity
41:06 The risks of stalling momentum and overplanning
43:33 Where to allocate raised capital: innovation vs. marketing
46:20 Where to find Bullish, Brent’s socials, and their newsletter

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Brent Vartan - Managing Partner & Co-Founder of Bullish
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Apoorva Govind is the founder and CEO of Bestever, a platform focused on helping brands and marketers generate ad creatives powered by real performance data and advanced AI models. With a background spanning technical roles at Apple, Uber, and Nvidia, Apoorva brings unique insights into the intersection of technology and growth marketing.

In this DTC POD episode, Apoorva and Blaine discuss how the AI toolkit for advertisers is evolving, the reality behind AI-generated ads, and why strategic inputs—not just rapid content production—drive sustainable brand results. Apoorva outlines how Bestever AI analyzes existing ad data to identify winning creative elements, then automates the production of new assets using the latest AI models. The episode also covers practical advice for early-stage brands on managing creative ops, what workflows will look like as AI video matures, and the future role of platforms like Meta in creative automation.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Apoorva’s background at Apple, Uber, and Nvidia
2. The early vision and pivot of Bestever AI
3. The role of AI in modern creative production
4. Ad creative strategy vs. pure output volume
5. Measuring ad performance with data-driven insights
6. Practical workflow tips for early-stage brands
7. When and how to leverage agencies
8. How to analyze competitors and learn from top-performing brands
9. Demystifying AI video: state of the tech in 2025
10. Building workflows to leverage multiple AI models
11. How Meta and other platforms are automating creative
12. The importance of creative analysis and transparent reporting
13. Future trends for agency and brand marketers

Timestamps
00:00 Intro and Apoorva's technical background
01:19 Apoorva’s early career at Apple, Nvidia, and Uber
03:04 Apoorva’s take on Apple’s iOS 26 glassmorphic UI and focus on AI
06:09 Security, future, and mass adoption of self-driving cars
13:30 Transition into ad creative, Bestever AI’s founding, and early pivots
18:31 How Bestever AI analyzes ad data to inform new creative
20:49 Current state and skepticism around fully AI-generated ad content
23:44 Meta’s push toward creative automation
26:56 Ad creative strategy for early and scaling brands
35:24 How Bestever AI helps brands diagnose and double down on winning ads
43:07 The reality of AI video: what’s possible now and what’s coming next
46:18 Investing in workflows and abstraction layers for future-proof creative ops
50:14 Where to connect with Apoorva and learn more about Bestever AI

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Apporva Govind - CEO and Founder of Bestever
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Chris Koch is the founder and CEO of VO/D, a venture studio that partners with massive talent celebrities to build enduring CPG brands across DTC, e-commerce, and retail. With a background in sports, investment banking, and talent management, Chris brings deep experience in identifying consumer needs, pairing them with the right creators, and executing product-first brand launches.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Chris walks through Void’s venture model, emphasizing the importance of strong products over mere celebrity endorsement. He shares the inside story of 1Up Candy’s rapid national retail rollout and outlines key frameworks for structuring talent partnerships, screening for true product-market fit, and ensuring long-term profitability in the saturated creator-led brand space.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. VO/D’s Venture Studio Model  
2. Partnering with Celebrities and Creators  
3. Product-First Versus Talent-First Approach  
4. Identifying Consumer Problems 
5. Selecting The Right Talent  
6. Talent as a Marketing Utility  
7. Challenges in Sourcing and Engaging Talent  
8. Social Following vs Purchase Influence  
9. Structuring Talent Partnerships  
10. Brand Launch Funding and Operations  
11. 1Up Candy Launch Story  
12. Retail Distribution Partnerships  
13. Inventory Financing and Cash Flow  
14. Creator-Led Marketing Strategies  
15. Legal and Contractual Safeguards  
16. Tips for Talent-Led Brands  
17. VO/D’s Future Direction 

Timestamps
00:00 Chris’s background & intro to VO/D
03:35 Why Void is product-first, not just talent-powered
05:04 An inside look at VO/D’s venture studio model
06:55 Talent as a utility & making brands that stand alone
10:31 Challenges matching creators to authentic product opportunities
11:28 Assessing conversion, reach, and fit in creator partners
13:40 How 1Up Candy with FaZe Rug came together
17:31 Disrupting candy with innovation and viral challenges
20:33 Breaking into 4,000 Walmart stores & key retail strategy
23:30 Operational realities of scaling fast (financing, supply chain, DTC vs. retail)
29:18 How to structure talent deals: equity, vesting, and incentives
35:17 Red flags and protective provisions in creator agreements
40:08 What’s next for VO/D: new categories, creator partners, and acquisition opportunities

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Chris Koch - Founder of VO/D
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Aaron Nosbisch is the founder and CEO of BRĒZ, a cannabis social tonic beverage designed as an alcohol alternative that offers a euphoric, feel-good effect without the downsides of alcohol. He built his expertise in e-commerce from an early age, launching multiple internet brands and scaling previous ventures like MONQ (portable aromatherapy diffuser, 0 to $15 million in three years as CMO), and running Lucyd Media, the world’s largest cannabis social advertising agency, which run 80% of meta ads for the cannabis space.

In this episode, Aaron and Blaine explore how BRĒZ identified untapped demand, iterated their product to solve a genuine founder problem, and brought it to market with precision: leveraging lean startup methodology, subscription-first landing pages, micro-batch production, effective founder-led UGC creative, and meticulous customer service. They discuss cash flow realities, funding first runs, the role of retention in beverage DTC, and how direct-to-consumer momentum powers retail expansion and shelf velocity. Aaron also shares transparent insights on ad spend, internal ops, and the principles that fuel brand growth.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Pillars of a Successful DTC Brand
2. Challenges of Scaling Beverages DTC
3. Early Stage Funding and Resources Management
4. Supply Chain Processes in Product Launches
5. Team Building, Finding the Right Partners
6. Pre-Launch and Launch Strategies
7. Testing and Iterating Ad Campaigns
8. Founder-Led Content in Advertising 
9. Guerrilla Strategies for Audience and List Building
10. Media Buying, Optimizing CAC, and Scaling Spend
11. Building AOV, Subscription, and Retention
12. Customer Feedback and Iteration Cycles
13. Importance of Timing and Market Readiness

Timestamps
00:00 Introducing Aaron and BRĒZ
05:06 The “alcohol alternative” white space and product vision
13:21 Launching a DTC beverage: initial capital and inventory
20:32 Validating demand, managing resource constraints
25:44 First ads and sales: founder content, guerilla tactics
34:07 Early CACs, ad budgets, and optimizing for LTV
38:22 E-commerce vs retail: channel mix and growth phases
46:50 Key takeaways & where to follow Aaron and BRĒZ

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Aaron Nosbisch - Founder and CEO of BRĒZ
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Marin Ištvanić is a partner at Inspire Brands, a boutique agency focused on paid social ads, primarily on Facebook and Instagram. He has personally spent over $150 million on Facebook ads for clients and internal brands, successfully scaling Inspire's own brand to $30 million in revenue by their third year.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Marin shares his insights on growing brands profitably through paid social. He discusses the importance of achieving product-market fit, crafting compelling offers, and understanding unit economics. Marin also details his agency's creative testing process and how to efficiently scale winning ad angles from static images to videos to landing pages.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Achieving Product-Market Fit
2. Scaling Brands through Facebook Ads
3. Product Differentiation
4. How to Craft a Compelling Offer
5. Subscription Products and Pricing Strategies
6. Landing Pages for Facebook Ads
7. Advertorials and Third-Party Content for Ads
8. Whitelisting and Leveraging External Trust in Ads
9. Ad Format Mix and Budget Allocation
10. Advantage+ Campaigns and AI
11. Scaling Ad Creative Production
12. Testing Ad Variations and Hooks

Timestamps
00:00 Marin's background and joining Inspire Brands 
04:48 Importance of product-market fit and differentiation 
06:50 Creating demand vs picking an established market
10:34 What makes an effective offer and how to craft one
12:41 Subscription models and free trial strategies
16:59 $1K/day spend as indicator of product-market fit 
18:36 Choosing the right landing page for your product 
25:07 Whitelisting strategies and organic-looking content
27:48 Typical budget allocation across ad formats
30:29 Facebook's Advantage+ campaigns and AI features 
33:23 Strategies for scaling ad creative
24:44 Final tips: know your numbers and when to spend

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Marin Ištvanić - Partner at Inspire Brands
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Justin Sherlock is the co-founder and CEO of Caspian, an AI-native duty drawback platform designed to help brands navigate complex global trade and tariff environments. Prior to Caspian, Justin gained deep experience in finance and logistics at Flexport, where he led Flexport Capital, and previously had several years experience in private equity.

In this episode, Justin breaks down the rapidly changing landscape of tariffs, duties, and global supply chains—especially relevant amid recent policy moves and volatile trade relations. He explains what customs brokers, tariffs, and duty drawbacks are, why these concepts matter for brands importing and exporting goods, and how most businesses are missing out on significant duty refund opportunities. Justin also offers real-world insights for DTC operators facing escalating tariffs, discusses strategies for mitigating increased costs, and shares how AI is making advanced trade advisory accessible beyond just Fortune 500 companies.

Join us as a Guest on DTC POD: SUBMIT GUEST FORM HERE
Apply to join our DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode we cover
Rising tariffs and global trade dynamics
Supply chain challenges for DTC brands
Role and importance of customs brokers
Duty drawback: process and benefits
Impact of US-China tariff escalation
Technology and AI in trade compliance
Strategies for brands to navigate tariffs

Timestamps
03:59 From Flexport to Caspian
09:31 Customs Compliance
11:11 Understanding Tariff and Duty Classification
15:54 Trump's Tariff Strategy: A Provocative Move
18:26 Debate Over Section 321 Provision
22:46 "Supply Chain Opportunities and Challenges"
25:03 Reshoring Critical Industries Strategy
28:04 10% Tariff Impact on US Businesses
32:53 Optimizing Supply Chain and Vendor Management
36:22 Trade Predictions: Japan, Taiwan, India, Vietnam
37:52 Geopolitical Isolationism and China's Rise
41:41 "Navigating Duty Drawback Challenges"
45:07 International Pricing and Tax Strategies
48:07 Future of Supply Chain Optimization

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Justin Sherlock - Founder of Caspian
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Peter Czepiga is the founder of Flighted, an agency that helps DTC brands profitably scale their advertising on platforms like Meta, TikTok, and Google. He also runs his own brand, Ando. Flighted has worked with some of the most popular DTC brands spending between $50-300k per month on ads.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Peter shares his strategies for launching and scaling profitable ad campaigns on Meta for DTC brands. He covers how much to spend to prove out product-market fit, what types of creative work best, his approach to audience targeting, and how AI is impacting ad creative production. Peter also explains how DTC ad tactics can be applied to other business models like SaaS.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Proving Product-Market Fit
2. Setting up Ad Accounts for New Brands
3. Budget and Assets Needed to Test Ad Creative
4. Creative Strategies for Successful Ads
5. AI in Ad Creative Generation
6. Applying DTC Ad Tactics to Other Business Models
7. Flighted’s Agency Model and Client Engagements

Timestamps
00:00 Peter's background in ecommerce and growth 
04:08 What is takes to prove product-market fit with ads 
09:57 Scaling ad budget after initial traction 
13:32 What is Meta Advantage+ campaigns and when to use it
16:10 How to manage ad frequency and exclusions
19:31 Creative mix: formats, messaging, placements
24:36 Messaging frameworks that resonate in ads
27:43 Tips for sourcing and creating ad creative 
32:31 AI-generated ad creative: potential and limitations 
38:28 Applying D2C ad tactics to SaaS and other businesses 
43:23 How Flighted works with clients 
45:32 Wrap up; how to connect with Peter

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok

Peter Czepiga - Founder of Flighted
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Irene Chen and Matthew Grenby are the co-founders of Parker Thatch, a luxury handbag and accessories brand they bootstrapped to 8-figures over the course of 20 years. Matt’s expertise spans tech, design, and marketing, while Irene brings deep fashion industry knowledge from working with powerhouse brands like Donna Karan and Calvin Klein.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Matt and Irene share how they navigated the shift from an e-stationery startup to eventually finding product-market fit with their signature luxury bags. They discuss key lessons learned in bootstrapping—the importance of market timing, how to manage inventory risks, and why flexibility and systems are critical when growing a brand.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Founding and Evolution of Parker Thatch
2. Initial Business Concepts and Pivots
3. Strategies for Managing and Allocating Inventory
4. Importance of Flexibility in Business Operations
5. Bootstrapping and Capital Allocation
6. Building Systems for Scalability
7. Marketing and Demand Generation Strategies
8. Community and Customer Engagement

Timestamps
00:00 Matt and Irene's backgrounds before Parker Thatch 
06:55 Starting an e-stationery business in 2000
07:43 Pivoting to selling physical stationery and home goods 
9:00 Lessons on market timing and pivoting when starting a business
11:51 Changing company name from iomoi to Parker Thatch
13:52 Creating Parker Thatch's debut handbag
18:19 Bootstrapping, capital allocation, inventory decisions
22:08 Why early business success depends on flexibility and testing
25:53 Introducing leather bags and streamlining production
29:10 Why small businesses fail without systems
32:29 Shifting to systems thinking to enable business growth
35:07 Marketing strategies to drive customer demand
37:01 Building community and brand identity around "functional luxury"
42:34 Relationship dynamics as husband and wife co-founders
45:55 Key focuses for 2025 and beyond with PTTV 
47:48 Where to find and connect with Parker Thatch

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Irene Chen and Matthew Grenby -  Co-Founders of Parker Thatch
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Caleb Alvarez is the founder of Shadow Light Studios, an agency specializing in high-converting paid and organic content. He has worked with major consumer brands like Monster Energy, Snapchat, and Samsung, as well as influencers like Tony Hawk, Logan Paul, Ice Cube, and many more.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Caleb breaks down how founders can create better content, build and scale a content engine, and strike the right balance between organic and paid content. He unpacks everything from finding your USP and mapping out content pillars to establishing a sprint-based production process. Caleb also shares how he helped scale Nectar Hard Seltzer from $2M to $5M in revenue using only organic content.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Founder-Led Content Strategies
2. Building a Content Engine: Key Roles and Process
3. Systems for Creating and Managing Content
4. Agile Workflow for Content Creation
5. Social Media Content Types and Pillars
6. Optimizing Content for Conversions
7. Balancing Paid and Organic Marketing
8. Balancing Virality and Conversion Goals

Timestamps
00:00 Caleb's background and getting into content creation 
05:22 How Shadow Light Studios works with brands 
07:35 The power of founder-led content and storytelling 
12:44 Who should create founder-led content 
15:02 Key pillars for effective founder-led brand content
18:55 Balancing content creation as a founder with limited time
22:16 How to structure content teams and roles
28:40 Paid ads vs. organic content—how they work together
31:39 Building a content strategy and implementing a system
36:18 Managing content sprints and pipeline
43:01 Content that performs vs. content that converts
49:01 Lead capture and conversion optimization techniques
53:09 Wrap up and where to follow Caleb Alvarez

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Caleb Alvarez - Founder of Shadow Light Studios
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Ben Matthews is a general partner at Night Ventures, an early-stage consumer VC fund, focused on culture, community, and creators. They have partnered with some of the most famous people on the internet including Mr. Beast, Kai Cenat, and Hasan Piker.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Ben and Blaine discuss:

• Lessons from incubating and investing in early-stage consumer companies
• The key elements of successful talent-driven brands, including audience fit and long-term commitment
• Choosing the right business opportunities based on market potential and operational feasibility
• Structuring effective partnerships between creators, operators, and investors
• The future of TikTok and emerging monetization avenues for content creators

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Business Launch and Growth
2. Talent-Driven Brands
3. Challenges in Creator Partnerships
4. Creator-Audience Relationship
5. Employment Trends and AI Impact
6. Content Commerce Trends
7. TikTok’s Future and Market Impact
8. Elements of Business Success
9. Incentive Structure in Partnerships
10. Importance of Having an Audience
11. Monetization Opportunities for Creators

Timestamps
00:00 Ben Matthew’s background and Night Ventures
06:05 Building business with talent: the case of Mr. Beast
10:54 What works in creator-brand partnerships
15:25 Picking the right talent to represent a brand
19:42 Picking the right business and products
23:01 Incubating early-stage consumer companies
30:07 Investing in early-stage consumer companies
33:03 Future trends in the creator-commerce space
35:19 Future trends in the content creator landscape

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Ben Matthews - General Partner at Night Ventures
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Isabel Mendez is the founder and design director at Antara Studio, an award-winning full-service design partner for purpose-driven brands. 

With a focus on brand, content, and design, Isabel and her team help companies create cohesive and emotionally resonant identities across all touchpoints.

In this episode of DTC POD, Blaine and Isabel discuss:

• The three necessary phases for creating a brand identity
• What makes a good brand story and how brands can effectively communicate it
• How brands can adapt to trends while remaining true to who they are

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. DTC Brand Design Trends
2. Stages of Brand Identity Building
3. Characteristics of a Good Brand Story
4. Consistency in Branding
5. Branding as a Holistic Process

Timestamps
00:00 Starting the design studio Antara
03:39 From freelancing to building a team
05:10 The basics of building a great brand
07:45 Branding as graphic communication
10:21 Owning assets vs having a brand
12:26 Phases of brand identity construction
16:21 What makes a good brand story
21:09 Brand case study: Star Fades International
25:15 Establishing a design story for brands
26:55 Brand application and consistency
29:48 Design trends and timelessness
33:33 What’s next for Antara

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Isabel Mendez - Founder and Design Director of Antara Studio
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

John Sampogna is the co-founder and CEO of Wondersauce, a modern advertising agency that specializes in brand storytelling, paid media, e-commerce, and digital experiences.

In this episode of DTC Pod, John discusses brand storytelling strategies across all sorts of media channels. He shares insights on crafting impactful campaigns and tips for finding and leveraging undervalued marketing gems like connected TV, static out-of-home, and podcasts. 

We explore the importance of understanding target audiences, the 3-3-3 rule for keeping your messaging on point, and finding that sweet spot between top-of-funnel brand-building and lower-funnel performance tactics.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Brand Storytelling Strategies
2. Buying and Crafting Campaigns
3. Linear vs Connected TV
4. Audience Understanding
5. 333 Rule for Messaging
6. Advertising Tactics and Budgeting
7. Undervalued Marketing Channels
8. Brand Story vs Product Story

Timestamps
00:00 John Sampogna’s background; Wondersauce vision
03:54 Serving Fortune 1000 businesses and DTC startups
06:05 Starting and scaling an advertising agency
10:11 What is brand storytelling and how can brands get it right
13:23 Media budgets and audiences in funnel strategy
18:44 Connected TV, static out-of-home, and podcasts
25:42 Strategizing for connected TV vs linear TV
28:58 Steps for creating an effective brand or product story
34:28 How Wondersauce onboard and work with clients

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

John Sampogna - CEO and Co-Founder of Wondersauce
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Haley Weidenbaum is the CEO and co-founder of Everhem, a DTC company specializing in custom window treatments, including shades and drapery. 

In this episode of DTC Pod, Haley discusses the strategies that have helped Everhem grow and differentiate itself in the market. She discusses the challenges of online shopping for custom products and how Everhem addresses them through thorough guides and customer support.

Haley also shares insights on Everhem's dual business mode—how they serve both interior designers and regular consumers, and how they adapt their offerings to meet the unique needs of each customer segment.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Window Treatment Market Landscape
2. Everhem's Niche and Positioning
3. Interior Design Trends and Forecasting
4. Challenges in Custom Window Treatments
5. Business Operations and Customer Service
6. Designer and Consumer Experience
7. Initial Business Journey and Growth
8. COVID-19 Impact and Market Response

Timestamps
00:00 Haley Weidenbaum’s background in interior design
4:00 From doing interior design to starting Everhem
07:51 COVID and the home industry boom
08:40 Importance of providing exceptional customer service
13:45 Everhem as the one-stop shop for window treatment
19:01 Catering to regular consumers and trade partners
24:15 Prioritizing key markets, managing expectations strategically
27:34 Window treatment industry and where Everhem fits
34:19 Using trends to forecast supply chain & manufacturing
37:42 Logistics, packaging, unboxing experience
40:02 Next step for Everhem: building authentic relationships

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Haley Weidenbaum - Co-Founder and CEO of Everhem
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Ismail Salhi is the co-founder and CEO of Wildgrain, a fast-growing DTC subscription service that delivers artisanal breads, pastries, and pasta directly to customers' doorsteps. 

In this episode of DTC Pod, Ismail shares his journey of rapidly scaling Wildgrain to over 80,000 subscribers since launching during the pandemic in 2020. He shares the key strategies that have driven Wildgrain's success: focusing on product quality, customer experience, and efficient operations.

Ismail discusses their decision to outsource baking to local bakeries—a move that  positioned them as a larger buyer than Whole Foods and Trader Joe's in some markets.

He also emphasizes the importance of investing in logistics tech to optimize product delivery and streamline processes. This focus on tech integration across all business areas has been crucial to their ability to scale effectively.

We also explore Wildgrain's customer acquisition strategies, which involve education marketing, meta, and influencers.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Business Model and Sustainability
2. Entrepreneurial Advice
3. Logistics and Distribution
4. Customer Support Tools and Efficiency
5. Customer Acquisition and Retention
6. Product Development and Market Introduction
7. Tech and Operations Partnership
8. Seasonal Growth and Marketing
9. Consumer Behavior Dynamics
10. Marketing and Product Differentiation
11. Consumer Engagement and Customization
12. Scalability and Operational Management
13. Market Insights and Future Plans

Timestamps
00:00 Ismail Salhi’s background; Wildgrain’s founding story
04:24 From starting a home bakery to outsourcing production
07:23 Wildgrain’s product and customer experience
08:56 Working with partner bakeries and distribution centers
10:08 Building tech for reliable, temperature-sensitive deliveries
13:58 Automated system streamlines tasks across all departments
15:47 Initial customer acquisition, education marketing, influencers
20:06 Product mix and how it affects inventory 
23:07 Creating different custom boxes to cater to different diets
24:28 Optimizing product operations, automating, outsourcing
27:06 Shipping carriers, tech for allocating orders
28:42 Seasonal growth and effects on marketing spend
31:50 Ismail Salhi on running the business with his wife
33:41 Time and lifestyle management as a parent entrepreneur
36:14 Ismail Salhi’s advice for DTC founders

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Ismail Salhi - Co-Founder and CEO of Wildgrain
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Christian Rivera is the founder of The Ecommerce Accountants, a firm that specializes in tax, accounting, and business structuring for e-commerce companies. Their clients include social media marketing agencies, dropshippers, digital marketers, Amazon automation, Amazon FBA, and internet coaches/gurus.

In this episode of the DTC POD, Christian explores key accounting issues that e-commerce businesses must address to succeed, such as sales tax compliance, revenue recognition, and inventory accounting. He also unpacks tax strategies that can help entrepreneurs set up smarter finances and maximize their profitability.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. E-commerce Accounting Challenges
2. Sales Tax Management
3. Revenue Recognition
4. Inventory Accounting
5. Financial Strategies and Advice
6. Inventory Management and Financing
7. Business Entity Structures
8. Growth Patterns of Successful Brands
9. Tax Planning and Optimization

Timestamps
00:00 Christian Rivera’s background and company
04:47 Accounting and tax for commerce brand
08:05 How sales tax works and where it applies
13:46 How every successful entrepreneur starts
16:44 VAs, agencies, and managing paid traffic
19:45 Inventory management for DTC brands
22:55 Strategies for inventory financing
25:16 Tax planning and optimization
27:57 S corp and LLC: difference and benefits
33:37 Tax strategies for foreign-owned businesses 
36:52 Puerto Rico's Act 60 tax incentive program
39:39 Tax strategies for American entrepreneurs
45:24 Christian Rivera’s advice for DTC founders

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

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Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Christian Rivera - Founder of The Ecommerce Accountants
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Zach Ranen is the co-founder of David, a protein bar brand which disrupted the market with 50% more calories from protein than any other bar and a groundbreaking dollar-to-protein ratio. 

In this episode of the DTC POD, Zach shares David's pre-launch and launch strategies, leading to 1M+ dollars in sales in the first week. This includes engaging with influencers like Peter Attia and Andrew Huberman and giving away 20,000 product samples. 

Zach also gives insights into their R&D process, how they built the David brand, their product-led approach to growth, and future plans.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Pre-Launch and Launch Tactics
2. Product-Led Approach to Growth
3. Product Sampling Marketing
4. Influencer Partnerships
5. Viral Marketing Strategies
6. Brand Development 
7. Naming and Visual Identity

Timestamps
00:00 The idea behind David protein bars
05:59 From working in private equity to founding Raize and eventually David
16:55 Balancing taste with nutrition in developing David protein bars
24:22 David as a product-led company
27:52 Brand building for David: name, packaging, launch
35:04 Key lessons on manufacturing, distribution, product launch, and virality
43:53 David’s $10M seed funding, key investors, and influencers
48:10 Next steps for growth, channel allocation, strategy

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Zach Ranen - Co-Founder and President at David
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Ariana Farahani is the founder and CEO of Plant Press, a fast-growing functional beverage brand offering a healthier alternative to traditional energy drinks. 

In this episode of DTC Pod, Ariana shares her journey of developing Plant Press from a homemade recipe to a nationally distributed product. She discusses the importance of gathering consumer feedback and iterating on the product based on data, which led to pivotal changes like focusing solely on clean caffeine and adjusting flavors.

Ariana also goes into the strategic decisions behind Plant Press's distribution strategy, from securing early retail partnerships with local bodegas and fitness centers to navigating the complexities of working with broadline distributors, including the key growth channels that proved successful early on.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Product Development and Iteration
2. Marketing and Distribution Strategies
3. Funding and Capital Allocation
4. DSD vs Broadline Distributors
5. Market Trends and Consumer Preferences
6. Company Growth and Retail Expansion

Timestamps
00:00 From studying medical cannabis to founding a caffeine brand
04:11 Early days of Plant Press, producing the minimum viable product
06:21 Key iterations in the manufacturing process of Plant Press
09:05 Using quantitative and qualitative customer feedback
10:48 Getting Plant Press to stores: key accounts and strategy
13:31 Self-funding, seed fundraising, and capital budgeting for Plant Press
19:23 Direct store delivery (DSD) vs broadline distribution
21:50 The need fo in-store product sampling and demos for CPG brands
24:52 Energy drink trends: emphasis on clean energy, hydration
27:42 Changing consumer preferences and how big players can catch up
30:32 Plant Press’ expansion to new distribution channels
32:04 What’s next for Plant Press

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Ariana Farahani - Founder & CEO of Plant Press
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Shri Kanase is the founder of Yoru Marketing, a boutique agency that specializes in Google Ads for e-commerce brands. Prior to this, he successfully scaled his e-commerce brands to over $3.5 million in four years. With extensive first hand experience, Shri has guided 23,000+ store owners via his YouTube channel and established one of the fastest-growing blogs in the e-commerce and PPC space.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Shri shares his insights on developing effective Google Ads strategies for e-commerce brands. He covers key topics such as initial campaign setup, Google Ads learning phase, keyword targeting, budgeting, ad placement focus, and ongoing optimization. Shri also discusses his "TPS approach" for testing, ensuring profitability, and scaling successful campaigns.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Ad Platform Differences
2. Google Ads Keyword Strategy
3. Algorithmic Learning Period in Google Ads
4. Budgeting for Google Ads
5. Google Ads Bidding Strategy
6. Testing and Scaling Google Ads Campaigns
7. Google Ads Placement Strategy
8. Google Ads for YouTube
9. Google Ads Campaign Optimization

Timestamps
00:00 Shri Kanase’s boutique marketing agency
03:51 Fundamentals of Google Ads
07:35 Launching a Google Ads campaign for the first time
10:43 How to do keyword research for Google Ads
13:55 Google Ads budget and bidding strategy 
19:01 How and when to reward or punish Google algorithm
21:10 Best practices for Google Ads placement
22:45 Creating effective Google Ads creatives
24:49 Tips for running Google Ads campaign on Youtube
26:51 Feed-only approach to Performance Max campaigns
29:52 TPS approach: testing, profitability, scaling
34:46 How to win with Google Ads in 2024

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Shri Kanase - Founder & CEO at Yoru Marketing
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Sam Lee is the Vice President of Amazon DSP at Trivium, a full-service Amazon agency. With a background spanning Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Amazon PPC, Sam has developed deep expertise in Amazon DSP and has successfully managed advertising for over 200 brands.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Sam provides a comprehensive overview of Amazon DSP, its functionality, and its potential for driving brand growth. He shares practical insights on topics such as when brands should consider investing in DSP, what budget and review thresholds are recommended, and how to develop effective DSP strategies tailored to specific brand goals. Sam also emphasizes the importance of product differentiation, page optimization, and integrating Amazon DSP into a cohesive multi-channel marketing approach to drive overall sales growth.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Amazon DSP Overview
2. Budgeting for Amazon DSP
3. Amazon DSP Strategy
4. Tips for Amazon Success
5. Amazon Product Differentiation
6. Amazon Trends and Outlook

Timestamps
00:00 Sam Lee’s background in Amazon DSP
03:38 What is Amazon DSP
05:24 Where Amazon DSP ads show up
06:24 Getting started with Amazon DSP advertising
08:17 Product-based Amazon DSP strategies
09:21 How Amazon DSP ads boost conversion rates
11:24 Leveraging Amazon’s first-party data through DSP
15:28 Creatives for Amazon DSP ads
17:04 Amazon DSP as part of the overall marketing strategy
20:19 Creating an Amazon strategy for a brand
22:11 Characteristics of brands that do well on Amazon
24:22 Amazon product trends in 2024
26:13 Amazon’s future, importance of holistic marketing

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Sam Lee - Vice-President of Amazon DSP at Trivium
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Aurelian Lis is the CEO of Dermalogica, a global skincare brand rooted in skin treatment expertise. With a background in atomic physics, laser optics, and extensive experience in the cosmetics industry, Aurelian has led Dermalogica to significant growth and innovation since taking the helm post-acquisition by Unilever.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Aurelian discusses the strategies that have driven Dermalogica's success, including delegating authority to the right people, empowering employees to innovate, and effectively integrating AI and machine learning across various functions. He stresses the importance of maintaining genuine personal connections with customers and staying true to the brand’s core values while proactively adapting to new trends, tech, and consumer preferences.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Growth Strategies
2. Innovation and AI Integration
3. Employee Empowerment
4. Global Team Structure
5. AI-Powered Personalization

Timestamps
00:00 Aurelian Lis’s journey from physics to finance to skincare
06:04 Joining Dermalogica as the CEO
08:08 Dermatologica’s channels and decentralized structure
12:13 Delegating authority and pushing for innovation
18:09 Generative AI and face mapping
23:53 Dermalogica Tribe, technology, and the importance of human touch
30:36 Key learnings from 9 years with Dermalogica
33:33 Advice for DTC operators and founders

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Aurelian Lis - Global CEO of Dermalogica
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Benjamin Witte is the founder and CEO of Recess, a beverage brand focused on creating products that promote relaxation and mental wellness. Inspired by the rise of functional ingredients like CBD, nootropics, and adaptogenic herbs, Benjamin saw an opportunity to pioneer a category of beverages that could help people unwind in a healthy way.

In this episode of DTC POD, Benjamin shares his journey of launching Recess and the key strategies that have contributed to its success, including a focus on efficient brand impressions and an omnichannel approach to distribution.

We discuss the significance of riding secular tailwinds, the advantages of having a broader mission when launching a brand, and the potential benefits and risks of a platform strategy. 

The conversation also touches the future of the functional beverage space and the role that Recess aims to play in shaping it.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Product Launch and Market Timing
2. Brand Awareness and Media Strategy
3. Regulatory Challenges in the CPG Space
4. Supply Chain Evolution
5. Retail Expansion and Distribution Strategy
6. Building and Growing the Recess Team
7. Trends in the Beverage Industry

Timestamps
00:00 From working at startups to founding Recess
04:36 Trends at the early days of Recess
08:04 How UGC factored in the launch of Recess
10:02 Validating the idea behind Recess
11:44 Key learnings from the early days of Recess
14:20 Importance of brand impressions to beverage companies
16:51 Generating earned media through IG content
18:03 Trajectory of growth for the Recess team
21:17 Expanding Recess from just DTC to DTC and retail
22:52 Shifting to a more scalable supply chain model
24:15 Recess as a platform brand; expanding the product line
28:37 Insights on the non-alcoholic beverage trend
31:45 Mood powders as part of the Recess expansion strategy
33:48 What’s next for Recess

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Benjamin Witte - Founder and CEO of Recess
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Rob Schutz is the co-founder of the unicorn Ro, a healthcare company that initially offered ED medications and later expanded into other products and services for sexual health, weight loss, fertility, hair, and skin. Prior to Ro, Rob was instrumental in the exponential growth of BARK/BarkBox, a now prominent subscription service for dog products. Currently, at Snagged.com, he is focused on helping businesses acquire premium domain names and digital assets.

In this episode of the DTC POD, Rob shares valuable insights into the growth strategies that have contributed to the success of both BARK/BarkBox and Ro. He discusses the importance of focusing on core, consistent marketing channels such as paid search, paid social, and email, while also allocating a separate budget for testing and exploring new, experimental strategies and channels.

Rob offers practical advice for founders and marketers, stressing the need to plan for scale, set and clearly communicate priorities, foster strong relationships between growth and marketing leaders, and structure teams effectively as the company experiences rapid growth. He also shares his expertise in domain brokerage, discussing strategies for acquiring and negotiating domain names to help build strong brand identities.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. DTC Marketing Strategies
2. Optimizing Marketing Budget
3. Testing Marketing Channels
4. Digital Marketing Challenges
5. Building and Structuring Teams
6. Importance of Domain Names

Timestamps
00:00 Rob Schutz’s DTC experience: BARK/BarkBox, Ro, Snagged.com
07:37 Process of acquiring domain names
11:10 Why Rob Schutz founded Snagged.com
14:28 From User Acquisition Manager to VP of Growth at BARK/BarkBox
16:27 Lessons from BARK/BarkBox’s growth journey
20:56 Strategies for choosing and testing growth channels
26:09 Transitioning from BARK/BarkBox to Ro
29:00 Challenge with digital performance platforms in the early days of Ro
31:33 Rolling out Ro’s ED medication state-by-state, launching other products
35:47 Planning for scale around high quality of care
35:51 Iterations around how to structure the team as Ro scaled
41:47 Rob Schutz’s advice to founders
46:35 Sports sponsorship as a performance channel
48:10 Snagged.com’s domain services

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Rob Schutz - Co-Founder of Ro and Founder of Snagged.com
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Mina Elias is a multiple 7-figure seller in the supplement industry, investor, Amazon PPC expert, and founder of Trivium Group, a full-service Amazon agency. With his extensive experience in helping brands thrive on Amazon, Mina brings valuable insights to the conversation around expanding to emerging platforms like TikTok Shop and navigating the evolving e-commerce landscape.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Mina explores the potential of TikTok Shop as a powerful platform for reaching younger audiences and driving sales. He offers practical advice on setting up a TikTok Shop account, engaging affiliates to create authentic and compelling content, and leveraging competitor insights through tools like FastMoss to optimize ad strategies. 

Mina also explores the synergistic relationship between TikTok Shop and Amazon, highlighting the positive impact on Amazon sales and organic ranking when brands effectively leverage external traffic from TikTok. He discusses the importance of setting realistic budgets for testing ad content on TikTok, emphasizing the need for brands to focus on quality content creation and authentic representation. 

Throughout the conversation, Mina stresses the significance of adapting to the unique storytelling aspects of the TikTok platform to maximize success and cautions against overengineering content, as authenticity is key to resonating with the TikTok audience.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Amazon vs. TikTok Shop
2. TikTok Shop Basics
3. TikTok Shop Logistics
4. TikTok Affiliate Marketing
5. TikTok Competitive Analysis
6. Cross-Platform Effects
7. TikTok-Amazon Integration

Timestamps
00:00 Mina Elias’ background in Amazon
03:34 TikTok and future shopping trends
06:12 How TikTok solved the content problem for brands
09:15 How TikTok merged affiliate and attribution
10:12 How to start selling on TikTok Shop: account and page setup, logistics
14:29 Affiliate marketing on TikTok: manual and automated outreach
17:42 Strategies for running ads with affiliate content
19:18 Budgeting for TikTok ads, data analysis with FastMoss
23:51 Finding the right TikTok creators for your brand
25:33 The impact of TikTok Shop on Amazon sales and organic ranking

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Mina Elias - Founder of Trivium Group and Chief Executive Officer at MMA Nutrition LLC
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Michelle Cordeiro Grant is an accomplished entrepreneur with a passion for creating innovative, community-based businesses. In 2016, she founded the intimates brand LIVELY and sold it three years later for $105 million. Following this successful exit, she pivoted to her next venture: GORGIE, a wellness energy drink.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Michelle shares valuable insights on building a successful DTC brand from the ground up. She discusses the importance of building a community around the brand, leveraging social media, and using data and customer feedback to drive product innovation.

Michelle also touches on the strategic decisions behind GORGIE's retail expansion, partnering with influential creators, and creating a magazine to inspire and connect with customers. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes authenticity, quality, and customer-centricity as crucial elements in establishing a strong brand identity.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Brand and Community Building
2. Data-Driven Product Development
3. Nurturing Retail Partnerships
4. Strategic Market Positioning
5. Defining and Capturing Your ICP
6. Organic Influencer Partnerships
7. The Intersection of Fashion and CPG

Timestamps
00:00 Michelle Cordeiro Grant’s background; the idea behind GORGIE
03:46 How customer feedback factored in product and brand development for GORGIE
07:40 Community as a buzzword vs as part of brand identity
10:01 Community building as an integral part of brand building
11:28 How to keep an online community engaged; consumer vs community funnel
16:50 GORGIE’s partnerships: Erewhon, Whole Foods, Sprouts, H-E-B, etc.
20:05 Overlaps between two industries: fashion and CPG
22:14 The story and vision behind GORGIE’s magazine
23:57 Defining GORGIE’s ICP and building a brand around them
26:54 GORGIE’s growth channels, how they nurture top-of-funnel and retain customers
29:42 Year two of GORGIE: online and retail initiatives
31:19 Brand-creator partnerships and the importance of organic alignment

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Michelle Cordeiro Grant - Founder and CEO of GORGIE
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Noah Tucker is the founder of Social Snowball, an automated affiliate and referral marketing platform for e-commerce that drives significant revenue for over 2,000 brands, including Solawave, Obvi, and Javy Coffee.

In this episode of the DTC POD, Noah shares powerful strategies for brands to supercharge their affiliate programs and drive significant revenue growth. He covers how to find and choose the right influencers, why it’s important to keep the activation process as smooth as possible, what brands can do to keep affiliates engaged, and how to measure the success of an affiliate program.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. The Evolution of Affiliate Marketing
2. Affiliate Marketing Challenges Faced by Brands
3. Affiliate Discovery, Activation, and Engagement
4. Affiliate Program Commissions
5. Attribution in Affiliate Marketing
6. Affiliate Marketing Trends and Future Outlook

Timestamps
00:00 Evolution of the meaning of “affiliate” in e-commerce
05:07 Challenges brands face when running an affiliate marketing program
07:32 Strategies for affiliate activation: engagement flow and tier structures
11:52 Things that get influencers interested in working with a brand
15:09 Optimal affiliate marketing commission rates
15:49 How to choose the right influencer for affiliate partnership
19:18 Strategies for finding and recruiting affiliate partners
23:11 How to measure the success of an affiliate program
25:03 Affiliate marketing trends and future outlook
29:05 Attribution in affiliate marketing; a tool that prevents coupon code leaks
33:11 Key initiatives of Social Snowball

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Noah Tucker - Founder of Social Snowball
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Ellen Marie Bennett is the founder and chief brand officer of Hedley & Bennett, a culinary lifestyle brand that started as a B2B company, offering high-quality aprons to professional chefs, and later expanded both its product line (to include other kitchen items) and customer base (now largely DTC).

In this episode of DTC Pod, Ellen shares her journey of starting the company while working as a line cook. She emphasizes the importance of a slow and steady approach to building a business, focusing on financial responsibility and gathering feedback from core customers to improve products. 

Ellen discusses her strategic approach to marketing, building an engaged community, and expanding the brand through collaborations with chefs, influencers, and creators. 

The conversation also touches on Hedley & Bennett’s expansion into DTC, their plans to go omnichannel, and how they’re investing sustainably for long-term success.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Grassroots Marketing
2. Strategic Financial Management
3. Customer Feedback in Product Development
4. Building a Brand Community
5. Product Seeding and Influencer Marketing
6. Expanding from B2B to DTC
7. Business Growth and Sustainability

Timestamps
00:00 How Hedley & Bennett came about
05:05 Why Ellen Marie Bennett started an apron brand
07:28 Financial lessons from the first years of Hedley & Bennett
15:03 Building a brand community
16:03 How Hedley & Bennett expanded from B2B to DTC
21:05 The importance of strong customer partnerships
24:13 Product seeding and influencer marketing
29:04 How customer feedback factors in the product iteration cycle
33:09 Prioritizing long-term brand vision and investments

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Ellen Marie Bennett - CEO and Founder of Hedley & Bennett
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Josh Piepmeier helps challenger brands outperform their fiercest competitors by targeting the highest-volume, most profitable keywords in their industry. With his company Meriwether, he crafts strategic SEO campaigns that drive immediate profits and build long-term, sustainable growth. 

Josh’s SEO approach has successfully gone head-to-head with giants like Amazon, Tiffany’s, and Macy's for competitive purchase-intent keywords. His expertise has transformed businesses struggling to gain traction into thriving enterprises with significant customer acquisition from organic search results. 

In this episode of DTC Pod, Josh provides real-world examples of how businesses have benefited from investing in SEO and offers advice for DTC brands looking to build an effective SEO strategy. We cover topics such as establishing topical authority, the relationship between ads and organic search traffic, and the impact of AI on SEO.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Importance of Investing in SEO
2. SEO Strategies for E-commerce Brands
3. When to Invest in SEO
4. Role of Branded Search in SEO
5. Relationship Between Ads and SEO
6. Topical Authority vs Domain Authority
7. The Impact of AI on SEO
8. E-commerce vs Non-E-commerce SEO

Timestamps
00:00 Josh Piepmeier’s background
04:25 When brands should start investing in SEO
07:04 How to optimize for branded searches
10:36 Off-page SEO for new domains
13:54 E-commerce SEO vs standard SEO
16:58 Google AI updates and how it’s affecting SEO
 20:16 On using AI for website content
22:46 How paid ads factor into SEO
26:03 How to create an effective SEO strategy
30:00 Importance of topical authority for small brands
33:20 Outcomes for brands that have focused on SEO

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Josh Piepmeier - Founder of Meriwether
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Mina Elias is a multiple 7-figure Amazon FBA seller and renowned PPC expert. He is also the founder of Trivium Group, a company that helps brands navigate and dominate the Amazon marketplace.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Mina details a holistic approach to enhancing the presence and profitability of any brand on Amazon, focusing on three pillars: traffic, click-through rate, and conversion rate. He covers the factors affecting each of these metrics and how to drive growth at every stage of the Amazon sales funnel.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Strategies for New Amazon Brands
2. How to Grow Traffic, CTR, and CVR on Amazon
3. Factors that Affect Sales and Conversion on Amazon
4. How to Optimize for Paid and Organic Search on Amazon
5. Tips for Optimizing Amazon Product Listings
6. Ways to Increase AOV and LTV on Amazon

Timestamps
00:00 Mina Elias’ background, how he started an Amazon agency
04:04 Three core pillars to scaling your brand on Amazon
05:39 Maximizing product visibility through strategic paid advertising
11:13 How to budget for Amazon spending
13:31 Tips for structuring Amazon PPC campaigns, setting up Amazon DSP
16:52 Growing your organic traffic on Amazon
19:33 Breaking in as a new brand; the importance of product differentiation
21:17 Seven factors that affect click-through rate (CTR) on Amazon
25:04 How price affects Amazon reviews and star ratings
27:33 Split testing discounts, coupons, and tracking profits
31:22 Best practices for optimizing Amazon product titles
32:21 Why choose Amazon FBA over FBM
33:34 How to earn the Amazon Best-Seller Badge
35:03 Factors that affect conversion rate on Amazon
36:45 Considering the buyer's perspective when creating an Amazon strategy
38:09 Optimizing videos on Amazon product listings
39:39 How to write effective Amazon bullet points
40:05 Amazon virtual bundles and how they affect conversion rate
42:51 Brand story; standard Amazon A+ Content vs Premium A+ Content
45:19 Leveraging user-generated content (UGC) to boost Amazon sales
46:25 Amazon Posts and Amazon Storefront
47:47 Importance of reviews with images on Amazon and how to get them
50:01 Ways to increase average order value (AOV) on Amazon
51:13 Ways to increase lifetime value (LTV) on Amazon
53:03 Testing and optimizing Amazon product listings

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Mina Elias - Founder of Trivium Group and Chief Executive Officer at MMA Nutrition LLC
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Will Baumann is the co-founder and CEO of Fourthwall, a company that empowers creators to sell products online without needing to be e-commerce experts.

At Fourthwall, they handle sales tax, supply chain, customer support, and more so creators can focus on making content and growing their community.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Will shares his insights on the complexities of building a business out of one’s personal brand and how Fourthwall has been aiding this process for over 50,000 creators.

Will also touches on the power of creators today, the trends they’re seeing at Fourthwall in terms of product popularity and paid ad usage, and Fourthwall’s differentiation strategy, growth channels, and future plans.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. E-commerce for Content Creators
2. Fourthwall’s Target Audience and Market Positioning
3. How to Get Started with Fourthwall
4. Merchandising Strategies for Creators
5. Growth Channels: Word-of-Mouth, Cold Outbound, SEO
6. Community-Driven Sales vs Paid Ads
7. The Power of Content Creators

Timestamps
00:00 How Fourthwall helps creators build their businesses
06:39 What creators need to know about sales tax 
09:50 Identifying a customer persona for Fourthwall
11:53 Steps to get set up with Fourthwall
14:09 Fourthwall then vs now, from manual to automated processes
18:12 Distribution trends on Fourthwall, community vs paid ads
19:05 The most popular products creators sell and how to scale
20:10 Starting a business vs creating a new revenue stream
22:04 Fourthwall’s future plans and growth projections
24:10 Positioning against Shopify and Pietra
25:44 How Fourthwall reaches its ICPs: word of mouth, cold outbound, SEO

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Will Baumann - Co-Founder and CEO at Fourthwall
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Colin Flood is the Vice President of Marketing at Unreal Snacks, a better-for-you chocolate brand with widespread distribution across numerous retailers in the United States and an established direct-to-consumer platform. 

At Unreal, Colin plays a pivotal role in scaling  e-commerce and D2C operations, as well as in expanding their presence into major retailers like Costco, Target, and Walmart. 

In this episode of DTC Pod, Colin Flood discusses the ups and downs of their marketing initiatives at Unreal, how they are bridging the gap between retail and digital customer experiences, and what their strategies are for data-driven marketing and budgeting across multiple channels. 

We also explore how Unreal is leveraging community involvement and consumer networks to drive brand awareness.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. DTC and Retail Marketing Strategies
2. Omni-Channel Presence
3. Retail and Digital Marketing Mix
4. Market Dynamics and Education
5. Amazon Strategy
6. Community Engagement
7. Consumer Network Growth
8. Customer Reactivation Strategies
9. Contextual Targeting
10. Marketing Team Structure

Timestamps
00:00 Colin Flood’s background; experience in e-commerce, marketing, and branding
03:20 Unreal Snacks — mission & vision, retail & DTC strategy, then vs now
10:39 In-store and online marketing strategies
15:02 Creative ways to get in front of customers
18:39 Amazon strategy, shifting to FBA
22:49 Marketing team structure and responsibilities
24:27 Relationship between marketing, community, and social
28:16 Marketing goals, data, and budget allocation
31:04 Contextual targeting, new product launch, reactivation strategies
33:26 Challenges in low funnel marketing
35:03 Bridging customer experiences between retail and digital
36:47 New chocolate products, new retail partnership

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Colin Flood - VP of Marketing at Unreal Snacks
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

David Hoffman and Samir Rayani co-founded Next Big Shop, where they leverage their expertise to analyze and interpret publicly available but hard-to-access e-commerce data for insights into retail success and product trends. As partners, they collaborate on developing data products that inform and guide direct-to-consumer strategies for various brands and industries.

In this episode of DTC Pod, David and Samir explore e-commerce trends, the significance of retail presence for certain product categories, and the intricacies of building and using data products to analyze market and sales data. They also cover the challenges faced when building data products, the role of data in measuring the success of brand strategies, and the need for precise data communication.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. E-commerce Sales Data Analysis
2. DTC Brand Strategies
3. Seasonality and Market Trends
4. Data-Driven Decision-Making
5. Subscription Business Models
6. Data Product Challenges

Timestamps
02:15 David and Samir’s background and experience in building data products
08:31 What data says about commerce trends in 2024
15:03 One of the hottest accessories brand: Blenders
18:55 Alo in apparel, how data can help optimize inventory turnover
20:57 Comparing brand strategies and impact on sales
24:52 Comparing beauty brands: Jones Road, Thrive, Peach and Lily, P. Louise
30:32 Using data to confirm or invalidate assumptions
31:39 Trending DTC topics and best-selling products in 2024
36:03 The relationship between demand and supply share
38:59 Beverage brands, DTC and retail strategy
43:34 Subscription business model, how subscription factors in data on Next Big Shop
44:50 Retail distribution, using data to define success metrics
48:45 Challenges of building data products

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

David Hoffman and Samir Rayani - Co-Founders of Next Big Shop
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

John Morgan is the founder of Pelagic, a unique agency of top tier operators that helps brands tackle supply chain, logistics & operations. Prior to starting Pelagic, he served as VP of Ops at Seed Health where he built the infrastructure behind one of the fastest growing modern health brands. Before getting into DTC he worked on the Falcon 9 rocket team at SpaceX. His expertise spans across optimizing supply chains for efficiency, sustainability, and growth, especially for early-stage companies.

In this episode of DTC Pod, John talks about the iterative nature of supply chain management and the need for startups to continuously adapt and refine their processes. He highlights the use of technology to streamline operations, the significance of understanding the complexities of global supply chains, especially under the strain of events like the COVID-19 pandemic, and shares a framework for setting up supply chains with a strong foundation in operational details and supplier partnerships.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Iterative Supply Chain Management
2. Third-Party Logistics Partnerships
3. Fractional Operations and Technology
4. Profitability and Cost Optimization
6. Impact of COVID-19 on Supply Chain
7. Future Tech in Operations
8. Building and Scaling Supply Chains

Timestamps
02:09 John Morgan’s background and experience working on SpaceX 
06:39 Leading the operations at Seed Health
09:37 The effect of COVID on global manufacturing, supply chain, and operations
11:46 Pelagic as a supply chain service provider
13:15 How to get supply chain right from the get-go; mistakes to avoid
18:56 Adapting supply chains to growth and change
23:41 Hiring for supply chain, considerations for early-stage founders
26:35 Optimizing for profits vs quality, financial optimization of supply chains
30:26 What founders need to know before importing
33:55 Common mistakes to avoid in supply chain management

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

John Morgan - Founder of Pelagic
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Leah Marcus and Yasaman Bakhtiar are the co-founders of Good Girl Snacks, a company that has made a name for itself in the snack industry with a focus on creating modern, female-oriented branding, particularly with their product "Hot Girl Pickles." 

Leah and Yasaman launched their brand by leveraging social media, especially TikTok, identifying a gap in the pickle market for their niche audience. Despite their lack of experience in the food and beverage industry, they were able to carve out a unique space and build a dedicated community around their brand through their knowledge of social media marketing and content creation.

In this episode of DTC Pod, Leah and Yasaman pull back the curtain on their content and marketing strategy. We gain insights into organic brand-building, how it contributes to maintaining authenticity and connection with an ad-averse Gen Z audience, and how they use it to get real-time engagement and feedback to refine and enhance their product line. We also learn the unique challenges and learning curves Leah and Yasaman faced in the CPG industry as they built Good Girl Snacks from the ground up.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Content Creation and Marketing Strategies
2. Overcoming Production and Operation Challenges
3. Engaging Gen Z through Authenticity
4. Branding and Niche Market Targeting
5. Learning From Industry with Consultancy Support
6. Building Community via Organic Social Content
7. Flexibility and Patience in Business Growth

Timestamps
02:00 Viral TikTok trends and how Good Girl Snacks started
04:21 From doing corporate work to launching a brand
07:21 Initial fears of starting a business
09:34 The white space in the pickle market
10:59 Picking a niche, catering to Gen Z consumers
13:28 Content strategy, leveraging brand stories and SEO
17:07 Good Girl Snacks’ content creation workflow then vs now
22:45 Balancing planned and spontaneous content 
24:39 Content distribution; reels, stories, and grid strategy
27:59 Product development, hiring R&D consultants, the importance of community
31:34 Gathering customer feedback for iterative product development
34:21 Challenges and advantages of bootstrapping
36:21 Adapting marketing strategy to Gen Z consumer attitudes and behavior
38:53 Retaining authenticity while scaling, continuing to create low-lift content
41:22 Hiring consultants vs full-time employees
44:28 How to get the most out of startup advisors
47:33 Advice to future founders: be adaptable and patient

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

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Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

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Leah Marcus and Yasaman Bakhtiar - Co-Founders of Good Girl Snacks
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Christopher Hunter is a seasoned entrepreneur best known for creating Four Loko, a caffeinated alcoholic beverage that caused a stir across college campuses and beyond. Currently, he serves as the CEO of Koia, a leading plant-based protein drink company that has achieved over $100 million in annual retail sales nationwide. 

In this episode of DTC Pod, we uncover tactics for rapid growth in the CPG space. Christopher highlights the importance of adapting to market shifts and consumer demands, which steered his brand from a costly initial direct-to-consumer model to a more sustainable retail focus, eventually re-introducing multi-packs for platforms like Instacart and launching shelf-stable products on Amazon. 

With Koia now available in approximately 30,000 retail locations—including a recent nationwide partnership with Starbucks—Christopher reflects on the brand’s product development and scale-up process.

Shop Koia on Amazon.

Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Startup Challenges and Solutions
2. Retail Partnerships and Scaling
3. Adaptation to Regulations
4. Four Loko's Market Evolution
5. Koya's Strategic Growth
6. Distribution and Manufacturing Strategies
7. Direct-to-Consumer Shifts and Trends

Timestamps
01:48 Christopher Hunter’s background, how Four Loko and Koia started
07:14 From managing Phusion Projects to investing in Raw Nature 5 to creating Koia
09:28 How a partnership helped launch and scale Koia
12:12 Troubleshooting initial production challenges at Koia
14:41 Starting with natural retailers, then going to specialty and conventional ones
17:23 The evolution of Koia’s supply chain and operations
19:57 Moving from DTC to retail, addressing customer requests, discovering an opportunity to sell on Amazon
22:22 Expectations for Koia’s launch on Amazon, looking at product competition
25:41 Lessons learned from Four Loko, product iteration and scaling
31:16 Dealing with government agencies, building a solid business foundation
33:56 Consumer research and how it factors in making business decisions like product line expansion

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

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Christopher Hunter - Co-Founder of Phusion Projects and Koia
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Kellen Roland served as first CEO of JOOPITER alongside Pharrel Williams and VP of Sales of Herschel Supply Co, and brings 18+ years of expertise in the luxury and consumer sectors.  He has a triple role as a founder, investor, and strategic advisor. He fosters business growth through insightful leadership and AI integration, invests in promising businesses like TRUFF, and offers strategic advice to brands such as Slowtide. 

With an acute sense of cultural trends and storytelling skills, he establishes authentic links between brands and audiences. Notably, he worked at Agenda Trade Show, Herschel Supply Co., and iamOTHER, founded The NTWRK Agency, and eventually built JOOPITER alongside Pharrell Williams. At present, he shares this extensive learning at his own consulting business, KRMC.

In this DTC Pod episode, Kellen Roland gives insights on building strong retailer relationships. He emphasizes the importance of delivering unique value to create lasting partnerships in retail. He also discusses negotiating techniques and the need to maintain a healthy balance of markups and margins, appealing to vendors while preserving brand profitability. Kellen encourages brands to be agile; taking customer feedback seriously and quickly adapting to changing preferences is key for success in the fast-changing DTC landscape. Through his strategic insights, Kellen cements the framework for a successful retail strategy that is as much about captivating storytelling as it is about shrewd business deliberations.

Join 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Strategic DTC Brand Launch
2. Entrepreneurship and Relationship-Building
3. Agility and Adaptability in Retail
4. Ethics in CPG and Brand Responsibility
5. Traits of Highly Successful People
6. Practical Benefits of AI in Business
7. The Value of Mentorship

Timestamps
01:30 Kellen Roland’s background, early career and passion
06:48 Herschel’s success, the importance of clear vision and timing
11:45 Creating win-win situations for retailers as a brand
13:01 How to pitch new products to retailers
17:04 Traditional brand launch versus modern direct-to-consumer approach
21:14 The importance of demand planning and brand agility
25:23 Brands to watch out for: Graza, Nguyen Coffee, Rocky’s Matcha, Goodles
32:52 Working with Pharell Williams on JOOPITER
35:53 Traits for leveling up to Kobe-level success
40:41 Commitment, resilience, and persistence amidst challenges
44:17 Using AI to manage schedules, solve problems, and scale operations
49:08 Coaching and revenue growth, building a consulting business
52:08 Seeking mentors, not copy-pasting success formulas

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

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Kellen Roland - Founder of KRMC
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Loren Castle is an entrepreneur and the founder of Sweet Loren's, a brand specializing in ready-to-bake cookie dough that is plant-based, gluten-free, nut-free, and non-GMO.

After being diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 22, Loren Castle was motivated to create a line of sweets that aligned with her own desire for healthier, less processed treats made from real food ingredients. Baking served both as her therapy and a means of creative expression during her challenging times.

Sweet Loren's began in Loren's kitchen after her homemade chocolate chip cookie recipe received high praise, leading her to realize the potential of her products. Her business has grown significantly over the years, and she has successfully led the brand to offer a broad range of products catering to health-conscious consumers. Sweet Loren's products are now available in over 25,000 supermarkets.

This episode of DTC Pod explores how Sweet Loren’s became the #1 natural cookie dough brand in the US. We cover topics like scaling product production, identifying business opportunities, and integrating customer feedback into product development stages. Learn about their success from startup to leader in the CPG market.

Episode brought to you by More Staffing

Join 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Tips for Scaling Product Production
2. Key Considerations for Product Line Expansion
3. Strategies for Successful Product Launches
4. How to Identify White Space Opportunities
5. Customer Feedback Integration in Product Development
6. Business Decision-Making and Growth

Timestamps
04:14 Starting Sweet Loren’s, the #1 natural cookie dough brand in the US
10:32 Discovering passion, becoming an entrepreneur, finding purpose
14:11 From solopreneurship to business leader
15:46 Deciding between opening a bakery vs entering the CPG market
16:39 Product development, choosing cookie dough as the first product
20:54 Customer feedback and its role in product iteration cycle
22:32 Shifting focus to customer needs, scaling Sweet Loren’s
24:58 Changing products to cater to food intolerances and allergies
32:28 Early stages of funding, bootstrapping, scaling
34:36 Evaluating business opportunities based on personal alignment
35:52 Figuring out the top five SKUs that are gonna sell
38:03 Launching Sweet Lauren’s first shelf-stable product
38:59 Launching other types of refrigerated doughs
41:16 Considerations for expanding Sweet Loren’s product offerings
43:14 Researching, identifying opportunities, developing products
46:55 Why team, experience, expertise, and data are vital for startup success

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
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Loren Castle - CEO and Founder of Sweet Loren's
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Emmett Shine is the creative genius behind Pattern, taking the lead in shaping the narratives and aesthetics of its seven brands. He also co-founded a creative agency, Gin Lane, and oversaw its evolution in parallel with the burgeoning startup ecosystem that came to define New York's landscape.

In this episode, Emmett discusses Pattern Brands' approach to cultivating a unique identity for each brand within its family. He underscores the need to create specialized experiences for individual brands while exploring synergies across the portfolio. His dual focus on operations and creatives emerges as a cornerstone strategy, proving pivotal in his company's ongoing journey to build a robust and profitable direct-to-consumer ecosystem.

Join 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Creative vs Operational Mindsets
2. Talent Recognition and Recruitment Strategies
3. Timeless Design Principles and Inspiration
4. DTC Brand Challenges and Strategies
5. Building and Scaling a Brand Family
6. Personal Growth and Entrepreneurship 

Timestamps
00:00 Working with business founders, finding market opportunities
05:25 Starting Pattern Brands, buying businesses, launching a design agency
13:23 Finding and hiring the right talent
15:27 Emmett Shine’s background in design, creating timeless vs trendy designs
24:18 Launching two brands, Equal Parts and Open Spaces
28:31 Managing multiple brands: human resources and operations
33:50 Building specialized brands that cater to millennials
45:01 Focusing on consistency, quality, and iterative processes
46:34 Diverse projects in early stages, seeking new challenges

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Emmett Shine - Co-Founder of Pattern Brands
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Our conversation with growth strategist Sabir Semerkant is filled with actionable insights on thriving in the e-commerce landscape.

Sabir’s approach to e-commerce growth is holistic. He emphasizes constant improvement and a strong understanding of one's business foundations. His advice invites brands to explore a growth path that's not reliant on temporary fixes but solidifies lasting customer relationships and strong business workflows. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to get an expert’s take on fueling your strategy and growth.

Episode brought to you by More Staffing

Join 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Sabir Semerkant’s 8D Method
2. The Importance of Mobile Optimization
3. Key Dimensions for E-Commerce Success
4. Storytelling in Marketing
5. Customer Experience and Branding
6. The Importance of Customer Centricity
7. Value Creation and Strategic Pricing
8. E-Commerce Platform Optimization
9. Growth and Operational Strategies
10. Logistics and Fulfillment

Timestamps
10:48 Setting goals, improving KPIs every day by 1%
12:10 The Rapid 2X and Mastermind programs and the 8D Method
13:46 Consistent improvement vs. quick transient optimization dilemma
18:21 The importance of measuring all aspects of business for success
20:17 The risks of relying solely on paid advertising, the importance of building a brand
24:43 The dangers of discounting and how it could hurt a business
28:12 Storytelling in marketing, building an emotional connection with customers
32:32 Optimizing tech stack for attention span, earning audience engagement
37:44 Free tool for measuring site speed to improve performance and conversion
39:10 Mobile optimization and why it is important
42:25 Product positioning and brand building, paying attention to what customers care about
45:33 The importance of authenticity in branding
48:43 Putting customers at the center of a business, creating buyer personas 
53:15 Strategic pricing, cultivating brand loyalty through content
01:00:11 Factors to consider when choosing the right tech stack
01:08:42 Choosing the right third-party logistics and operations partners
01:13:58 Finding and hiring the right people to help a business grow

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

Sabir Semerkant - Founder of GROWTH by SABIR
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Jennifer Liao’s journey with MìLà is nothing short of remarkable. From a grassroots project where they collected orders through Google Forms, it evolved into a successful venture that raised $21.5 million in its second round of funding.

This episode doesn't just serve up the story behind MìLà’s signature frozen soup dumplings; it provides a feast of insights on the ingredients for business growth, fundraising, and the power of community-driven marketing.

Episode brought to you by More Staffing

Join 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Fundraising Strategies and Investor Relationships
2. Navigating Logistics for Frozen Food Distribution
3. Product-Market Fit Testing
4. Branding and Content Strategy Development
5. Scaling Manufacturing 
6. Leveraging E-commerce Platforms

Timestamps
03:37 Experimenting with frozen soup dumplings
06:17 How testing and running ad campaigns on Meta led to MìLà’s rapid growth
14:59 Product-market fit testing, team expansion
20:43 Establishing a team for content and branding
28:00 Getting funded, setting realistic goals, and scaling for success
35:52 The supply chain side of frozen, perishable goods
37:22 Building infrastructure for proactive outreach
38:46 Product innovation, retail expansion

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

-----

Jennifer Liao - Co-Founder of MìLà
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

In this episode of DTC Pod, Nicolas Beaupré illuminates the strategies that propelled Mateina's growth in the North American market, where the lure of yerba mate was still largely undiscovered. He emphasizes the crucial role of grassroots efforts like word-of-mouth endorsements and community events in building a loyal customer base. 

Nicolas shares his journey of self-funding, supplemented later by keen investors, which allowed the brand to foster a robust direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales model. In developing Mateina's signature non-carbonated yerba mate beverage, he underscores the meticulous year-and-a-half-long process of trial and error with suppliers to fine-tune the recipe. 

Moving into the future, Nicolas envisions continuing to innovate and potentially expand Mateina's retail footprint.

Episode brought to you by More Staffing

Join 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Yerba Mate as a Coffee Alternative
2. Grassroots Customer Acquisition
3. Self-Funding to Venture Capital
4. DTC Revenue Strategy
5. Product Development Journey
6. Product Sourcing and Production
7. Sales and Formulations
8. Retail Partnerships
9. Educational Marketing Strategy

Timestamps
03:27 Becoming acquainted with maté in South America
05:54 Launching an e-commerce store that sells maté
08:41 Introducing a ready-to-drink, cold maté to the market
14:07 Educating customers on yerba maté
15:51 From bootstrapping to getting private investors
19:27 Product development — trials, mistakes, expansion
23:57 Factors to consider when coming up with a new formula
27:01 Mateina’s product line, inventory challenges
32:18 Lessons on product form and communications strategy
35:04 Andrew Huberman's role in launching Mateina in the US
37:00 Aligning brand, creator, infrastructure, capital, and distribution
43:39 Product education, word of mouth, and brand advocacy

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

-----

Nicolas Beaupré - Founder & CEO at Mateina Yerba Mate
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

In our conversation with Kevin Lavelle, he shares his ingenious approach to building his company, Mizzen+Main, into a fashion industry success. Initially, Kevin recalls the brute force marketing efforts that shaped the early days of the brand, from going door to door to attending events to get the product in people's hands. 

As their digital marketing and PR strategies matured, Kevin leveraged the power of strategic partnerships and influencer collaborations. Specifically, he cites the company's visibility boost through sponsorship deals, like the one with Tim Ferriss's podcast, and endorsement deals, like with athlete J.J. Watt.

Looking into the future with his new venture, Harbor, Kevin discusses the strategies his team is taking to enter the market of baby monitors and pediatric telehealth.

Episode brought to you by More Staffing

Join 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!

On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:
1. Influential Partnerships for Brand Growth
2. Sustainable Growth Strategies
3. Influencer and Celebrity Collaborations
4. The Tim Ferriss Effect
5.  Retail Strategy Insights
6. Prelaunch Strategies and Inventory Management

Timestamps
02:13 Transitioning from Mizzen+Main to Harbor
07:20 Lessons from building a customer base for Mizzen+Main
12:42 The Tim Ferriss Effect, how a podcast propelled Mizzen+Main
14:15 Signing an endorsement deal with J.J. Watt
16:36 The necessity of authenticity and passion in successful partnerships
20:06 Making personal connections for business success
26:00 Creating technically complex, life-critical electronics
29:03 Growing Harbor by creating valuable content for parents
32:36 Wholesalers and their impact on business growth
37:11 Preparing for the pre-launch of Harbor
38:45 Building a waitlist with a refundable deposit to gauge demand
42:17 Harbor’s vision to transform sleep and wellness for parents

Show notes powered by Castmagic

Past guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  

Additional episodes you might like:

• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth

• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content

• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views

• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands

• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook

• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands

-----
Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?
Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.

Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?
Check out our newsletter here.

Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:
DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internet
Olivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplement
Castmagic - AI Workspace for Content

Follow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!

DTCPod Instagram
DTCPod Twitter
DTCPod TikTok  

-----

Kevin Lavelle - CoFounder and CEO at Harbor, Founder and Chairman of the Board at Mizzen+Main
Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Ramon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic