Brand Architects

Bora Celik
Brand Architects Podcast

Bora Celik talks to leaders who build remarkable brands. Presented by collabs.io - building the opportunity economy for creators and brands.

Episodes

  1. 15 HR. AGO

    Fasting with Food: The Science of Longevity with Dr. Joseph Antoun of L-Nutra/Prolon

    Bora chats with Dr. Joseph Antoun, CEO of L-Nutra. They discuss Prolon, a pioneering "fasting mimicking diet" backed by extensive scientific research. Beyond its health benefits, this conversation offers valuable insights for brand builders on launching and scaling a science-based wellness product. Key topics discussed include: The science behind Prolon and its potential to reverse biological age Product development journey: From concept to market-ready product (13 years, $48 million investment) Building credibility: Importance of clinical trials and partnerships with leading universities (40+ trials, 18 universities) Intellectual property strategy: Securing 134 patents to protect the fasting mimicking diet technology Pricing strategy: Aligning with average food costs to ensure mass-market accessibility Distribution channels: Direct-to-consumer, Amazon, and partnerships with 15,000+ healthcare practitioners Marketing challenges: Educating consumers on a novel concept and changing ingrained beliefs about nutrition Brand positioning: Distinguishing Prolon as a scientifically-backed "food as medicine" product Influencer and affiliate marketing: Leveraging satisfied customers and celebrities as brand ambassadors Product line expansion: Introducing complementary products like longevity protein and fasting bars Addressing different market segments: From Hollywood celebrities to individuals with health conditions Scaling challenges: Balancing rapid growth with maintaining product integrity and scientific focus Dr. Antoun also shares insights on overcoming skepticism, the importance of long-term vision in product development, and the potential for personalized nutrition in the future. This episode offers a comprehensive look at building a disruptive brand in the competitive wellness industry, emphasizing the power of scientific backing and a mission-driven approach.

    34 min
  2. AUG 30

    Protein Puffs and Perseverance: The IWON Organics Story with Mark Samuel

    Bora chats with Mark Samuel, the founder of IWON Organics, a company specializing in plant-based protein snacks. Mark shares his transition from being a fitness enthusiast to founding a health-focused snack company, offering valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of the food and beverage industry. Key topics discussed include: 1. The origin story of IWON Organics and Mark's motivation to fill a void in the savory protein snack market. 2. The choice of pea protein and the importance of organic, sustainable ingredients in IWON's products. 3. The complexities of the food and beverage industry, including distribution, product innovation, and manufacturing challenges. 4. Mark's approach to balanced nutrition and the 80-20 rule for maintaining a healthy relationship with food. 5. The product development process, including flavor selection and the importance of consumer preferences. 6. The role of capital in scaling a food brand and Mark's candid insights on fundraising. 7. Strategies for securing retail placement, including IWON's journey to national distribution in Whole Foods. 8. Marketing approaches, with a focus on product demos and micro-influencer partnerships. 9. The debate between perseverance and knowing when to quit in entrepreneurship. 10. Current challenges facing IWON Organics and Mark's personal priorities moving forward. This episode offers a wealth of knowledge for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those interested in the health food industry. Mark's honest reflections on the highs and lows of building a brand provide valuable lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to one's vision while remaining open to change.

    34 min
  3. AUG 26

    Innovating Low-Carb Living with Dr. Jonathan Carp of Miracle Noodle

    Bora chats with Dr. Jonathan Carp, the founder of Miracle Noodle. Dr. Carp shares his fascinating transition from dermatology to the world of nutrition and health-focused food products. Key topics discussed in this episode include: Dr. Carp's background as a dermatologist and his pivot into nutrition The inspiration behind Miracle Noodle, stemming from a trip to Japan Evolution of health food trends over the past two decades, including low-carb diets, keto, and protein-focused diets The development of new products, including egg white noodles and future innovations Balancing scientific aspects with consumer preferences in product development The challenges and strategies of expanding from a niche low-carb company to a broader healthy lifestyle brand Methods for identifying and testing new product opportunities in the food industry The importance of trade shows and networking in the food business Marketing strategies, including the use of email launch sequences and direct response marketing The shift in business channels, with retail becoming the dominant sales channel Future plans for subscription-based models and educational content creation The challenges of delegation and international shipping uncertainties Dr. Carp offers valuable insights into the intersection of health, nutrition, and entrepreneurship, discussing how he navigates the ever-changing landscape of dietary trends while maintaining a focus on empowering consumers to take control of their health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in health-conscious entrepreneurship, food innovation, or the journey from medical professional to successful business owner.

    32 min
  4. AUG 21

    Reshaping the Fertility Experience with Jake Kent of Dandi Fertility

    In this episode, Bora dives deep into the world of fertility support with Jake Kent, co-founder of Dandi Fertility. Jake shares the deeply personal journey that led to the creation of Dandi, a groundbreaking startup at the intersection of physical products and digital health services for fertility care. Key topics explored in this episode include: The Genesis of Dandi: Jake recounts how witnessing a family member's fertility struggles during COVID lockdowns inspired him to address the gaps in fertility support. Research and Development: Learn about Dandi's year-long listening tour with 100 women, and how this patient-centric approach shaped their product development. The Hybrid Model: Jake discusses the challenges and opportunities of combining physical products with digital health services, and how this unique approach sets Dandi apart in the fertility care space. Partnerships and Growth: Discover how Dandi is collaborating with fertility clinics and pharmacies to improve patient care and streamline operations. Community Building: Jake explains their organic marketing approach, including their ambassador program and partnership with Olympian Tara Lipinski as head of community. Navigating Political Waters: Hear Jake's perspective on staying focused on patient care amidst the politicization of fertility treatments. Funding and Future Plans: Jake shares insights into Dandi's funding journey and their priorities for expansion and growth. This episode offers a fascinating look at how personal experience, empathy, and innovation can come together to create meaningful solutions in healthcare. Whether you're interested in fertility, startups, or the intersection of physical and digital health, Jake Kent's story with Dandi is sure to inspire and inform.

    40 min
  5. AUG 5

    Electrifying Nostalgia: Revolutionizing Classic Cars for the EV Era with Rob Howard of Kindred Motorworks

    In this episode, we dive into the world of classic car restoration and electrification with Rob Howard, founder of Kindred Motorworks. Rob shares his fascinating journey from environmental engineering to supply chain software, and how these experiences culminated in the creation of a company that's breathing new life into beloved vintage vehicles. Key topics discussed: Rob's entrepreneurial path, from Encenda to Grand Junction, and how each venture built towards Kindred Motorworks The unique business model of modernizing vintage cars with electric powertrains Kindred's meticulous 5,000-step process for restoring and upgrading classic vehicles The company's focus on iconic models like the Ford Bronco, Volkswagen Bus, and Chevy 3100 How Kindred balances nostalgia with cutting-edge technology in their restorations The challenges of scaling a startup in the automotive industry Kindred's innovative use of software and technology in the restoration process The company's marketing strategies and brand storytelling approach Rob's insights on sustainability in the automotive industry Future plans for Kindred, including the upcoming launch of new models Whether you're a classic car enthusiast, tech aficionado, or someone interested in innovative business models, this episode offers a unique glimpse into a company that's bridging the gap between automotive history and the electric future. Join us for an inspiring conversation about passion, innovation, and the art of reimagining beloved classics for the 21st century.

    33 min
  6. JUL 29

    Turning Awkward Moments into Million-Dollar Ideas with Jamie Norwood of Winx Health

    I sit down with Jamie Norwood, co-founder of Winx Health (fka Stix), a company revolutionizing women's health through education and innovative products. Jamie shares the unexpected origin of Winx Health - born from an awkward drugstore encounter - and how it evolved into a mission to make women's health less taboo and more accessible. From struggling to convince male investors about the importance of their products to landing their first $50,000 check over breakfast, Jamie's entrepreneurial journey is filled with valuable insights. Discover how Winx Health: Expanded from a single pregnancy test to a comprehensive women's health brand Achieved profitability by slashing their entire marketing budget (yes, you read that right!) Leverages education as a powerful marketing tool through their platform 'Real Talk' Responds swiftly to political changes, like fast-tracking their morning-after pill launch Attracts high-profile supporters like Kerry Washington Jamie also discusses their latest venture into at-home UTI testing and their partnership with telehealth providers, showcasing how Winx Health continues to innovate in the women's health space. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or simply interested in how brands can make a real difference, this episode offers a masterclass in building a purpose-driven company that's not afraid to tackle taboo topics. Join us for an honest, enlightening conversation about turning embarrassing moments into game-changing ideas, and how Winx Health is reshaping the landscape of women's health, one education piece and innovative product at a time.

    34 min

About

Bora Celik talks to leaders who build remarkable brands. Presented by collabs.io - building the opportunity economy for creators and brands.

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