Brand Architects

Bora Celik
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Brand Architects

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

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    How Adam Pearson of Fortunato Chocolate Found The World's Rarest Cacao Hidden in Peru's Jungle

    In this episode, Bora chats with Adam Pearson, whose family's search for bananas to supply a gold mine's cafeteria led to an extraordinary discovery that shook the chocolate world. While sourcing produce for the mine's food service provider, they stumbled upon an extinct variety of Nacional Cacao, once considered the finest chocolate-making bean of 19th century Europe, hidden in the remote jungles of Peru. What brand builders will learn: • The art of opportunity recognition - how to spot potential when you're completely outside your expertise • How serendipity can lead to unique business opportunities—from selling parts to a gold mine to stumbling upon extinct cacao • The power of persistence: How the family invested two years and their life savings to perfect their cacao processing • The courage to pivot: Transitioning from government accounting to jungle chocolate-making • Building authentic brand stories - their discovery was verified by USDA's genetics lab • Taking calculated risks: How a 67-year-old entrepreneur invested everything in an entirely new industry • The value of specialized expertise: Why they needed an engineering mindset to perfect fermentation • Geographic exclusivity as a brand differentiator - owning access to a rare ingredient • The role of scientific validation in building brand credibility • How complete industry outsiders navigated learning complex agricultural processes This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs interested in: - Recognizing hidden opportunities - Luxury/premium product development - Food & beverage industry - Agricultural businesses - Family business dynamics - Brand storytelling - Product quality optimization - Market differentiation strategies From a government accountant's cubicle to the steamy jungles of Peru, discover how a family of complete industry outsiders transformed an accidental discovery into what would become a unique position in the premium chocolate market. This story challenges listeners to question: Would you have the courage to pursue an opportunity in an industry you knew nothing about? Sometimes, the biggest opportunities come disguised as weird-looking fruits in unexpected places - and this episode shows you exactly how to recognize them when they appear.

    19 min

  2. NOV 12

    Breaking Down Alcohol: How Scientist Zack Abbott Created ZBiotics' Revolutionary Pre-Drink Solution

    In this episode, Bora speaks with Zack Abbott, PhD, founder of ZBiotics, who shares his remarkable journey from studying bacterial pneumonia to pioneering the world's first genetically engineered probiotic company. What You'll Learn: - How bacteria can be used as an "API" to build revolutionary consumer products - The fascinating process of turning a scientific breakthrough into a consumer brand - Behind-the-scenes look at how ZBiotics conducted 10,000+ customer interviews to perfect their product - Practical insights on transitioning from scientist to entrepreneur - Real challenges of finding manufacturers for novel biotech products - Strategic approach to building distribution channels: from DTC to Amazon to retail - Key marketing strategies that worked for a revolutionary product category - The future of engineered probiotics and upcoming innovations in consumer biotech For Brand Builders: This episode is particularly valuable if you're: - Building a science-based consumer brand - Looking to validate and launch innovative products - Interested in the intersection of biotech and consumer goods - Planning to transition from DTC to retail - Working on products that require significant consumer education - Seeking insights on how to market revolutionary products Zack shares candid insights about their marketing journey, including how they built trust with skeptical consumers, leveraged creator partnerships effectively, and scaled their customer acquisition channels. Whether you're a biotech entrepreneur or a consumer brand builder, this episode offers a masterclass in bringing revolutionary products to market.

    38 min

  3. NOV 12

    Modern Day Marco Polos: How Caryl Levine & Ken Lee Brought Forbidden Rice to America with Lotus Foods

    Like modern-day Marco Polos, Caryl Levine and Ken Lee's Lotus Foods journey began with a discovery in a remote Dai minority village in China that would change the American culinary landscape forever. Against all odds and expert advice, their exotic black rice caught the attention of America's most celebrated chefs, including Thomas Keller, Alice Waters, Roland Passot, Gary Danko, and Mark Miller - who made it the star of the prestigious Napa Valley Wine Auction. In this fascinating episode, Bora discovers how these culinary explorers: • Transformed an ancient "emperor's exclusive grain" into a premium rice category in America • Built their brand with zero food industry experience, bootstrapping with credit cards while keeping their day jobs for 7.5 years • Created a distributor-driven growth model that expanded from high-end restaurants to national retail presence • Pioneered sustainable rice farming practices that reduced water usage and methane emissions • Built lasting partnerships with small-holder farmers across Asia, improving lives and preserving biodiversity Perfect for aspiring brand builders who want to understand: - How to turn a unique product discovery into a successful brand - Strategies for winning over influential chefs and building credibility - Building distribution networks from ground zero - Balancing profit with sustainability and social impact - The power of patience and steady growth in brand building This episode offers a masterclass in how exploration, curiosity, and persistence can turn an exotic discovery into a thriving, mission-driven brand. Whether you're searching for your own unique product or building a sustainable food brand, you'll find inspiration in this modern-day tale of discovery and entrepreneurship.

    39 min

  4. NOV 6

    From Stressed Bar Owner to CBD Pioneer: Beau Schmitt's Sunday Scaries Story

    Bora chats with Beau Schmitt, co-founder of Sunday Scaries, who shares the remarkable journey of transforming from a stressed-out bar owner to building one of the most successful CBD brands in America. What You'll Learn: - The fascinating origin story of how running a high-stress bar business led to discovering CBD's potential - Behind-the-scenes look at developing CBD products: from sourcing US-grown hemp to perfecting gummy formulations - Critical insights on why US-grown hemp matters and the dangers of international sourcing - Early-days marketing strategies that worked in 2017 vs. what's working now - How to navigate strict advertising restrictions on major platforms (Facebook, Google, Amazon) and still grow - Creative influencer marketing strategies that actually work in 2024 - The evolution of brand messaging from product education to emotional connection - Real talk about payment processing challenges in the CBD industry and how to overcome them - Why certain marketing channels failed (like billboard advertising) and which ones succeeded - Expert tips on working with creators and building authentic partnerships Key Highlights: - Sunday Scaries' journey to helping over 250,000 people with stress and anxiety - Why they're expanding into functional mushroom products - The importance of brand evolution and maturity in the wellness space - Practical advice for entrepreneurs in restricted industries Perfect for Entrepreneurs, brand builders, marketing professionals, and anyone interested in the CBD/wellness industry or building a brand in a restricted category.

    35 min

  5. NOV 5

    Building a Brand with a Single Magical Ingredient with Justin Kerzner of Magic Molecule

    Bora uncovers how a single naturally-occurring molecule became the foundation of a revolutionary skincare brand that's now in every Ulta Beauty store across America. Justin Kerzner, founder of Magic Molecule, reveals the fascinating journey of building a brand around hypochlorous acid - a powerful healing compound that our own bodies produce, yet most people (including dermatologists) have never heard of. Key Episode Highlights: • The science behind the "miracle molecule" that performs 120 times better than bleach, yet is safe enough to spray in your mouth • From skepticism to success: How Magic Molecule turned their harshest social media critics into their most loyal customers through radical transparency • Inside the pitch that took them from 0 to 1,400 Ulta Beauty stores - including the unconventional strategy that won over multiple senior buyers • Strategic lessons in FDA compliance: Navigating the complex world of medical device marketing while building a consumer brand • The power of authentic reviews: How gifting 2,000 products pre-launch created a foundation of trust and credibility • Real talk about scaling challenges: Managing creative consistency and team growth across multiple locations Perfect for brand builders who want to: - Learn how to position a revolutionary ingredient in a crowded market - Navigate FDA regulations while building a consumer brand - Scale from DTC to major retail presence - Convert skeptics into brand advocates - Build authentic customer trust from day one Whether you're launching a skincare brand or scaling any DTC product, this episode offers a masterclass in turning a single innovative ingredient into a retail empire - all while maintaining authenticity and building genuine customer trust.

    50 min

  6. OCT 25

    The Future of Personalized Health Through AI with Sarah Dorsett of Viome

    In this episode, Bora dives into the future of personalized health with Sarah Dorsett, President of Viome, a groundbreaking company at the intersection of AI, microbiome science, and personalized nutrition. What You'll Learn: - The fascinating origin story of Viome, sparked by the founder's personal loss and mission to make chronic disease optional - How Viome's revolutionary technology analyzes not just what microbes are in your gut, but what they're actually doing - something no other company can do - Why traditional supplements might be wasting your money and how personalized nutrition could save you hundreds while being more effective - The surprising truth about "healthy" foods: why kale might be harmful for some people while perfect for others - Inside look at how AI and advanced science are making truly personalized health recommendations possible at scale - The future of wellness technology and how it will transform our approach to health - Expert insights on building and marketing a science-based brand in the skeptical supplement space For Brand Builders: - Learn how to balance scientific credibility with consumer-friendly messaging - Discover strategies for product development in the personalized health space - Understand how to leverage customer data and feedback for product innovation - Get practical advice on marketing channels that work for health tech brands - Learn why word-of-mouth marketing is crucial and how to amplify it - Insights on working with creators and influencers in the scientific wellness space Whether you're a health-conscious consumer, a brand builder in the wellness space, or an entrepreneur interested in the future of personalized health, this episode offers invaluable insights into one of the most exciting developments in modern healthcare.

    42 min

  7. OCT 24

    Reimagining Affordable Luxury In Beauty with Natalie Mackey of Winky Lux

    Bora chats with Natalie Mackey, founder of Winky Lux, and reveals the unconventional journey of building a multi-million dollar beauty brand. What started as a marketplace pivot in 2015 turned into a revolutionary approach to accessible luxury beauty. Key insights for brand builders: • Manufacturing Mastery: Learn why visiting 50+ factories was crucial to finding the perfect manufacturing partner and how it led to innovative packaging designs that set the brand apart • The 45-Day Launch Secret: Discover Winky Lux's unique dual supply chain strategy that allows them to test products in just 45 days while maintaining traditional retail relationships • Marketing Evolution: Understanding the shift from Meta to TikTok, why traditional influencer marketing is dying, and what's working now in beauty marketing • Fundraising Reality Check: Raw insights about the challenges of raising venture capital in consumer brands and what it really takes to secure funding • Customer Psychology Deep Dive: How understanding the emotional connection between packaging and customer pride led to a successful brand positioning Perfect for founders and brand builders who want to: - Learn practical strategies for product development and manufacturing - Understand modern marketing tactics that actually work - Navigate the challenging world of brand fundraising - Build a brand that resonates deeply with customers Whether you're just starting your brand journey or scaling an existing business, this episode provides actionable insights from someone who transformed her finance background and design education into a beloved beauty brand that serves customers from age 13 to 80.

    42 min

  8. OCT 18

    Breaking Beauty Barriers: KJ Miller's Journey from Harvard to Mented Cosmetics

    Bora explores the entrepreneurial journey of KJ Miller, co-founder of Mented Cosmetics. From her days at Harvard Business School to revolutionizing the beauty industry, KJ shares invaluable insights for aspiring brand builders. What you'll learn in this episode: • The inception of Mented Cosmetics: How a simple search for the perfect nude lipstick led to a game-changing beauty brand for women of color. • The power of customer feedback: KJ's iterative approach to product development and the importance of listening to your audience. • Navigating the VC landscape: How KJ secured funding in a challenging environment and her advice for today's entrepreneurs seeking investment. • Growth strategies that work: The evolution of marketing tactics from organic social media and PR to retention channels like email and SMS. • Inventory management challenges: Real talk about the persistent headaches of running a product-based business across multiple channels. • The importance of adaptability: KJ's insights on pivoting strategies in a changing market, including her recent launch on TikTok Shop. • Balancing multiple ventures: How KJ manages her time between running Mented Cosmetics, teaching, content creation, and other business pursuits. • Leadership lessons: KJ's focus on being a motivating and clear leader for her newly rebuilt team post-acquisition. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the beauty industry, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge from someone who's been in the trenches. KJ Miller's story is not just about building a successful beauty brand; it's about perseverance, innovation, and the power of solving real problems for underserved markets. Join us for an inspiring conversation that will leave you motivated to tackle your own entrepreneurial challenges and build a brand that makes a difference.

    41 min
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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Bora Celik
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Bora Celik
  • Show Website
    Brand Architects

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