The Founder Hour

NEW EPISODE: Troy Arntsen, co-founder and president of Voluspa, transformed a simple idea into a global luxury candle brand renowned for its exquisite scents and impeccable quality. Hailing from Minnesota, Troy was a self-described "daydreamer" who defied expectations when he traded a promising engineering career for the world of essential oils. His decision, met with initial doubts from his family, was fueled by an unshakable entrepreneurial spirit. In 1999, armed with only a few thousand dollars and the unwavering support of his partner, Troy relocated to Southern California with a dream to create Voluspa. What began as a humble kitchen operation—where late-night candle pouring was the norm—evolved into a global brand, with Voluspa candles now sold in over 80 countries. The company’s success stems from its commitment to using premium, natural ingredients and a dedication to elegant design, setting it apart in a market saturated with generic offerings. Troy’s engineering background proved invaluable as he developed Voluspa’s signature coconut wax blend, a unique innovation that remains central to the brand's identity. Over the past 25 years, he navigated the complexities of scaling a business, from building a team to mastering the e-commerce landscape, all while staying devoted to his family. Today, Voluspa is a leader in luxury home fragrances, with Troy still passionately steering the ship. His journey from a small-town Minnesota dreamer to a successful entrepreneur is a powerful testament to the importance of pursuing one's passions, upholding core values, and building a business with integrity and perseverance. #troyartsen #voluspa #candles #luxury #fragrance #podcast #interview #founder #business #entrepreneur #thefounderhour https://lnkd.in/gct_-mYe

NEW EPISODE: Taylor Hill's life took an unexpected turn at the age of 14 when she was discovered at a dude ranch in Colorado. Born in Illinois but raised in the mountains of Colorado, Taylor grew up snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors with her family. Her mother, a former hairdresser turned stay-at-home mom, instilled in her a sense of creativity and diligence that would serve her well in her future career. That fateful day at the ranch, a photographer mistook Taylor and her siblings for hired models. Within 24 hours, she found herself shooting her first catalog for Belk. This serendipitous encounter launched her into the world of modeling, a career she hadn't previously considered. At 14, Taylor signed with IMG Models and began her whirlwind journey in the fashion industry. With her mother by her side, she navigated the complexities of the modeling world, learning to balance work and personal growth. As Taylor's modeling career soared, she became a familiar face in major fashion shows and campaigns. Her work with Victoria’s Secret & Co. became a significant part of her journey, participating in their iconic fashion shows and growing alongside the brand as it evolved over the years. Throughout her modeling career, Taylor found a constant companion in her dog, Tate. This Labradoodle became more than just a pet; he was her soulmate and teacher, showing her the meaning of unconditional love and responsibility. Tate accompanied her to photoshoots in New York, becoming a beloved mascot in the fashion world. Tragically, Tate's battle with lymphoma opened Taylor's eyes to the gaps in the pet care industry. This experience inspired her to create Tate & Taylor, a company aimed at revolutionizing the pet space. Through this venture, Taylor seeks to blend her experiences in fashion and social media with her passion for pets, creating a platform that offers curated products, educational content, and a supportive community for pet owners. Today, Taylor continues to balance her successful modeling career with her entrepreneurial pursuits. She's set to return to the Victoria's Secret runway later this year, while also working tirelessly to grow Tate & Taylor. #petcare #pets #dogs #taylorhill #tateandtaylor #thefounderhour #podcast #business #model #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship https://lnkd.in/g6qVxTEW

This Monday's #randomTFHepisode is Daymond John, founder of FUBU The Collection, LLC, and one of the sharks on Shark Tank ABC. Daymond John, a Queens native, was entrepreneurial from a young age, selling pencils and shoveling snow. These early experiences shaped his business mindset. In 1992, he and his friends founded FUBU (For Us, By Us) with just $40. They turned the brand into a cultural phenomenon, securing deals with Macy's and generating over $350 million in annual revenue. However, Daymond faced challenges, including counterfeit products and staying relevant in fashion. In 2009, Daymond joined "Shark Tank," where he became known for his business acumen and mentorship. Since our 2021 interview, he's continued empowering minority entrepreneurs through initiatives like #BlackEntrepreneursDay and advocating for #financialliteracy. Daymond remains a prominent voice, using his platform for philanthropy and education. Daymond John's story exemplifies perseverance, adaptability, and staying true to one's roots. His journey from Queens to "Shark Tank" boardrooms is a testament to the power of hustle and mentorship in business. Sign up for our email newsletter for a longer and deeper dive. DM us, and we will sign you up. #thefounderhour #podcast #podcasts #founder #founders #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship https://lnkd.in/gC4emBNq

NEW EPISODE: As a young girl, Michelle Wahler witnessed her father lose his music business, a pivotal moment that shaped her resilience and drive. She pursued graphic design at the University of Florida and then moved to New York City, juggling jobs as a designer and waitress. Her break came at PEOPLE Magazine | PEOPLE.com, but her entrepreneurial spirit led her to launch a t-shirt business, Unsweetened, from her apartment. A 2005 trip to California for a trade show introduced her to her future co-founder, with whom she launched Beyond Yoga, an activewear line celebrating women of all shapes and sizes. As CEO, Michelle transformed Beyond Yoga from a startup into an industry leader. In 2021, a meeting with Levi Strauss & Co. changed everything, leading to their $400 million acquisition of Beyond Yoga—a testament to her dedication and hard work. Michelle’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and the power of taking chances, offering inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere. Tune in to hear her incredible journey and insights. #activewear #athleisure #activelifestyle #apparel #podcast #business #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #interview #thefounderhour https://lnkd.in/geywxv-a

Founders, innovators, and leaders of all kinds have the opportunity to leave the world better than they found it. The cool part is finding where your skills and interests line up with the complex problems needing to be solved. Over a decade ago, we saw the broken credit system consumers were facing and founded Affirm. It’s been our mission since then to offer an honest and transparent alternative, without any late fees, hidden charges or other junk. Thank you The Founder Hour for having me on the show!

We're sure you've seen by now that Zillow co-founder Rich Barton stepped down from his role as CEO this week and passed the baton to Jeremy Wacksman. Check out our episode with Rich from January 2023. Fun Fact - it is our show's 8th most downloaded episode (out of 278 episodes). https://lnkd.in/eWmcggSy

NEW EPISODE: Max Levchin's journey began in Ukraine, where he grew up in a family of scientists who instilled in him a deep respect for knowledge and discovery. After his family relocated to Crimea to escape the fallout from the Chernobyl disaster, Max discovered his passion for programming at a young age. With no computer at his disposal, he began teaching himself to code by writing programs on paper. In 1991, Max’s family moved to the U.S., settling in Chicago. It was here that he found his footing at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a pivotal moment that set the stage for his future success. Immersed in the early internet scene, Max’s path eventually led him to Silicon Valley, where a chance meeting with Peter Thiel at Stanford University’s lecture halls sparked the creation of what would become PayPal. Initially conceived as a secure way to store and transfer encrypted data, PayPal evolved into a groundbreaking online payment system that transformed the way we conduct financial transactions. Max takes us through the early days of PayPal, sharing stories of tackling complex challenges like document encryption and fraud prevention. But his entrepreneurial journey didn’t stop there. He went on to found Slide, and later Affirm, a company dedicated to providing honest financial products that align with consumers' best interests. Throughout the conversation, Max discusses his guiding philosophy of HVF Labs—hard, valuable, and fun—and how it shapes his approach to building companies that aim to make a positive impact on the world. We also explore Max’s thoughts on the future of #technology, exploring AI's potential, the evolving landscape of fintech, and the importance of aligning financial interests with customers. Tune in to uncover the story of an engineer at heart, a visionary leader, and a man who continues to shape the future of finance and technology. #maxlevchin #paypal #affirm #tech #paypalmafia #thefounderhour #podcast #interview #business #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship https://lnkd.in/gnRKmy5y

This Monday's #randomTFHepisode is Kelis Rogers aka #Kelis - singer, songwriter, chef, and founder of Bounty & Full. Kelis Rogers, known mononymously as Kelis, grew up in Harlem, New York, immersed in the vibrant culture that would later shape her music and culinary career. With a fashion designer mother and a jazz musician father, she was destined for the arts. At just 17, she signed her first record deal, launching her into the spotlight. Kelis' music career took off with her debut album, Kaleidoscope, in 1999. Her distinctive blend of R&B, hip-hop, and electronic elements set her apart, with hits like “Milkshake” and “Bossy” solidifying her as a pop culture icon. However, navigating the music industry as a young Black woman presented challenges, from label disputes to personal hardships. Despite these, Kelis pushed boundaries, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Her resilience in an industry often marked by volatility showcases her determination and creative spirit. While music was her first love, Kelis’ passion for food simmered in the background. After stepping away from music, she enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu, honing her culinary skills and finding a new calling. This transition was more than a career change; it was a return to her roots, where food had always been a source of comfort and creativity. In 2015, Kelis launched Bounty & Full, a line of gourmet sauces reflecting her culinary perspective. The brand quickly gained recognition for its bold flavors and quality ingredients. Bounty & Full wasn’t just about selling sauces; it was about sharing her love for food and community, connecting with people through the universal language of taste. Since her March 2018 interview on The Founder Hour, Kelis has expanded her entrepreneurial footprint. She purchased a farm outside Los Angeles, where she grows produce and raises livestock, deepening her connection to the food she prepares. Kelis has also launched meal delivery services and collaborated with major food brands, focusing on healthy, sustainable options. Her ventures reflect her commitment to quality and authenticity, blending her creative passions with her business acumen. Kelis’ journey from a teenage music sensation to a successful chef and businesswoman is a testament to reinvention and following one’s passions. Her ability to pivot from music to culinary arts and later to entrepreneurship demonstrates her resilience and creativity. Kelis’ story is one of triumph over tribulations, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives alike to pursue their passions and adapt to change, no matter the challenges they face. Check out Kelis' episode on our show to learn more about her story! And don't forget to subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. https://lnkd.in/g6nUT9Zg

NEW EPISODE: Joe Kudla is the visionary founder and CEO of Vuori (pronounced VEE-YOUR-EE), a brand that's redefining activewear. Joe's path to success is anything but ordinary, including a career in fashion and modeling that took him to the fashion capitals of Italy and also, accounting. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him back to the U.S., where he faced the challenges of launching his own business ventures, including two failed clothing businesses. Interestingly, the second one was Vuori, but not the #Vuori we know today. In this episode, Joe shares a fascinating story about a random encounter with a lady who predicted his future life and business success with uncanny accuracy. This bizarre yet prophetic moment set the stage for Joe's next steps. Around that time, Joe took up #yoga. When he developed a passion for it, he saw a gap in the market for high-quality, versatile men's #activewear that seamlessly transitions from workouts to casual wear. This insight catalyzed Vuori, a brand known for its premium, innovative apparel embodying the active California lifestyle. Joe talks about the significant milestones in Vuori's growth, including a $45 million investment from Norwest Venture Partners in 2019 and a staggering $400 million investment led by SoftBank in 2021, which catapulted the company's valuation to $4 billion. Beyond the numbers, Joe delves into his core values of clarity, well-being, and the power of the mind, emphasizing the importance of community and how Vuori aims to bring people together. He also shares his belief that "product is everything" and how this philosophy drives every decision at Vuori. Tune in to hear Joe Kudla's incredible journey, the lessons he's learned, and how he's building a brand that stands for more than just clothing. #joekudla #apparel #mensapparel #athleisure #athleticclothing #thefounderhour #podcast #business #interview #founder https://lnkd.in/g9xrDbvr

This Monday's #randomTFHepisode is Ben Goodwin, the co-founder and CEO of OLIPOP PBC. Ben Goodwin embarked on his journey in the beverage industry after leaving a kombucha company in 2008. With a vision to create a healthier soft drink, Ben invested $300,000 of his savings, working in a makeshift lab with a microbiologist. By 2012, they had developed a probiotic soda named Obi. However, Obi struggled to gain traction despite their efforts and was eventually sold in 2016. In 2018, Ben partnered with David Lester to launch OLIPOP, utilizing $100,000 from the sale of Obi. They introduced the first 3 flavors—Ginger Lemon, Strawberry Vanilla, and Cinnamon Cola—and quickly found success, selling in 40 grocery stores in Northern California with gross revenue of $852,000 in the first year. The company’s growth accelerated, leading to its products being sold in Target and Walmart stores. In 2019, OLIPOP secured $2.5 million in seed funding. OLIPOP has continually expanded its flavor lineup, boasting 16 varieties as of April 2024. Some popular flavors include Classic Root Beer, Vintage Cola, Orange Squeeze, and Banana Cream, the latter branded with Minions characters. Their flavors are crafted with prebiotics, botanicals, and plant fibers, providing a healthier alternative to traditional sodas. OLIPOP’s success has attracted significant investment from celebrities such as Camila Cabello, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, The Jonas Brothers, Mindy Kaling, Logic, and Gwyneth Paltrow. In 2022, the company raised a $30 million Series B round at a $200 million valuation. As of January 2023, OLIPOP had raised a total of $55.4 million in funding. By 2022, the company achieved $73.4 million in gross revenue—a 223% increase year-over-year—and reached $100 million in the first half of 2023. Notably, OLIPOP's root beer flavor outsold A&W’s, highlighting their market impact. Ben Goodwin and David Lester’s dedication to revolutionizing the beverage industry with OLIPOP continues to pay off. The company’s innovative approach and commitment to health-conscious products resonate with a growing consumer base, setting the stage for further growth and success. Check out Ben's episode on our show to learn more about his story! And don't forget to subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. https://lnkd.in/eyQZrK-e