In this episode, Parker sits down with Josh Rathbun, the founder of Cheecam, a company that helps brides and grooms capture unforgettable candid moments on their biggest day with disposable cameras and a full-service development process.  Josh takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, starting from a college project to building a thriving business. He shares insights on the challenges and strategies that helped him scale and the importance of customer communication, operational excellence, and brand positioning.Tune in to hear how Josh turned a simple idea into a business that captures special moments at weddings, and stay till the end for valuable tips on building a customer-focused business.What was covered:From college project to business: The Cheecam journeyIdentifying market needs and evolving the productThe importance of brand positioning and building trustThe role of customer communication in enhancing user experienceHow Josh obsesses the customer journey to deliver unforgettable experiencesParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/Joshua Rathbun Links:Website: https://cheecam.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getcheecamTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cheecamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rathbunjoshua/

In this episode, Parker interviews Morgan Lerner, co-founder of GoNanas.  GoNanas is modernizing the baked goods arena building a better-for-you bakery brand, using bananas to make a lower sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly, treats otherwise known as #notyournanas baked goods.From a side hustle that started in the dorms at the University of Michigan, Go Blue!, GoNanas has grown into a nationwide brand, now available in over 4,000 retail locations.Morgan also discusses the challenges of managing brand collaborations and shares valuable insights into product innovation, team building, and lessons learned from both successes and setbacks. Additionally, she highlights GoNanas' community-building efforts through their ambassador program, fostering strong connections with customers. Listen now.What was covered:From dorm room startup to national brand – the GoNanas journeyGrowing to $1M+ in sales through monthly flavor dropsHow GoNanas built a highly engaged ambassador program to help with product and retail launchesDeveloping successful collaborations with other brands like Salt & StrawMarketing with micro vs. macro influencers and brand collaborationsGoNanas’ Links:Website:https://eatgonanas.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/go_nanasFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/eatgonanasTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gonanasParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ 

In this episode, Parker sits down with Travis Seera, the founder of Flikr Fireplace—a sleek, isopropyl-powered personal fireplace that redefines cozy living. Travis opens up about his eight-year journey of innovation, overcoming challenges, and his passion for designing products that meet real, personal needs. He also gives us a sneak peek into his latest venture, Spark Firestarter.Discover the strategies that helped Flikr grow into 1,200 stores in just three years, including the value of partnering with smaller, independent retailers who deliver a personalized shopping experience. Travis shares valuable tips on how to support retail partners with marketing tools and creative sales tactics, as well as his decision to sell the business—not just for profit, but for peace of mind and the brand’s continued growth.Tune in to hear the story of Travi’s vision, turning into a retail success, and stay till the end for insights on building your own product-based business.What was covered:How Travis designed and refined his isopropyl personal fireplace over eight years.Travis's new project, Spark Firestarter, which reflects his passion for fire-related products.How to deliver unforgettable consumer experiences by focusing on user needsHow Flikr expanded their brand by partnering with 1,200 storesMarketing materials and creative selling strategies to retail partnersWhy he chose to sell FlikrParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ Travis Seera  Links:Website:https://sparkfirestarter.com/Website: https://flikrfire.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sparkfirestarter/

Ever tried to change your oil at home and ended up with a mess on the driveway that looked like an oil tanker spill?  That’s exactly why the guest on the show today started his brand.In this episode, Mike Burns, founder and CEO of ValvoMax, shares his journey from Air Force veteran and corporate finance professional to innovative product creator and brand founder. Mike takes us through the origin of ValvoMax, a revolutionary tool that simplifies oil changes by replacing the drain bolt with a cleaner, faster, and tool-free system.Mike discusses how his frustration with the traditional oil change process led him to develop the ValvoMax Quick Twist Valve, a product that has since gained traction amongst DIY car maintenance consumers and has landed in major retailers like Lowe’s and Canadian Tire. You’ll hear how a chance feature by YouTube personality Scotty Kilmer turned ValvoMax into a household name, as well as Mike’s insights into prototyping, manufacturing, and scaling into retail.Don’t miss this episode packed with lessons on turning frustration into innovation, and how one influencer review can change everything.Show highlights:Mike’s journey from Air Force veteran to product innovatorThe origin of ValvoMax and solving the pain points of messy oil changesHow Scotty Kilmer’s YouTube video boosted ValvoMax sales overnightBreaking into major retailers like Lowe’s and Canadian TireManaging the complexities of retail and financingThe importance of focus and scaling wiselyMike Burns and ValvoMax Links:Website: https://www.valvomax.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valvomaxFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/valvomaxYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4KUJox7oZ1FZaArful7KpQParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ 

Move over Eggo.  In this episode, Emily Groden, founder of  Evergreen Waffles, shares her journey from corporate lawyer to waffle entrepreneur. She delves into the evolution of Evergreen, a brand that began as a hobby in March 2020 and has rapidly grown to 3,500+ stores nationwide. Emily discusses the unique selling points of Evergreen’s frozen waffles, which pack a full serving of fruits and veggies without refined sugars or preservatives.Hear about the development of their distinctive flavors like zucchini carrot cake and peanut butter banana bread, and the challenges she faced from early sales strategies to navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic. Emily also touches on their marketing strategies, including a successful rebranding that boosted same-store sales by 62%.Don't miss out on this insightful conversation - Tune in now!What was covered:Emily's transition from corporate lawyer to entrepreneurCreating unique flavors and navigating early sales challengesHow a rebrand led to +62% in same-store salesManufacturing challenges and lessonsTaking risks and shooting your shot with cold outreachParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ Emily Groden’s Links:Website: https://eatevergreen.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatevergreen/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/eatevergreenTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eatevergreen

In this episode, Matt Butler, founder of  Tally Tumbler and a 20-year Air Force veteran, shares his inspiring journey from military service to entrepreneurship. Matt takes us through the creation of his two successful products: Rollors, an outdoor lawn game with over 150,000 units sold, and the Tally Tumbler, a unique scorekeeping drink tumbler that has seen impressive growth, especially in the golf market.Matt also dives into his innovative marketing strategies, including a hybrid sales model and targeted digital advertising, and discusses the challenges he's faced, such as inventory management and navigating changing consumer behavior. He offers insight into his future plans, including exploring US-based production to address supply chain issues and preparing for peak sales seasons.What was covered:Matt Butler’s Transition from Air Force Veteran to EntrepreneurProduct Success: 150,000 Units of Rollors SoldLaunching a 2nd Successful Product Brand: The Tally TumblerHybrid Sales Model and Digital AdvertisingThe Ups and Downs of Inventory ManagementLeveraging Trade Shows for Product Development and NetworkingUS-Based Production for Supply Chain OptimizationAnalyzing Trends and DataParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ Matt Butler’s Links:Website: https://www.tallytumbler.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tallytumbler/Rollors: https://rollors.com/

In this episode, Leslie Danford, founder of Vitaminis, shares her journey of transitioning from a corporate career to launching her own vitamin supplement brand during the pandemic. Leslie discusses the development and unique aspects of Vitaminis' products, the challenges of starting up, the importance of feedback and iteration, her retail strategies, and her upcoming plans for Vitaminis.Leslie also highlights her strategy for gaining traction in retail, with a particular focus on sampling at natural grocery stores and leveraging feedback to iterate on the product. The conversation also covers the importance of packaging, retail placement, and the potential for growth in different markets.Listen now to see how Vitaminis is growing fast.What was covered:Leslie Danford's career journey and transition from corporate to entrepreneurshipChannel strategies and lessons learnedThe reality of organic social mediaThe power of multiple marketing channelsRetail as a growth driverThe importance of sampling and using QR codes to build an email listThe power of effective product placementParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ Leslie Danford’s Links:Website: https://vitaminisbrand.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitaminisbrand/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VitaminisBrand/

In this episode, Parker interviews Cody DeJardin, a brand builder, partner, and advisor to consumer brands, about his extensive experience in the industry. Cody shares his journey from starting a product company with his brother in college to working with Sackcloth and Ashes, a mission-driven company that donates a blanket to a homeless shelter for every blanket purchased. They discuss the importance of meaningful storytelling, quality products, local impact, and engaging community. Cody elaborates on how Sackcloth and Ashes stands out in a crowded market by leveraging strategic collaborations and partnerships with various artists and brands. He also delves into the challenges of scaling too quickly and the shift towards gifting as a significant revenue driver for the company. Listen in to learn about the evolution of brand building, effective marketing strategies, and the impact of prioritizing social good.What was covered:Introduction to Cody DeJardin and Sackcloth and AshesFounding of Sackcloth and AshesThe Impact and Growth of Sackcloth and AshesChallenges and Successes in the Blanket IndustryGrowing A Business with Collaborations and PartnershipsSpotlighting Artists and Their StoriesGifting Strategies and Business GrowthParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ Cody DeJardin Links:Website: https://sackclothandashes.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sackclothxashesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sackclothxashesYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@sackclothxashes

Imagine a grill cleaning brush soaring to $3 million in pre-orders—how does that happen?In this episode of the Uncommon Brands podcast, Parker Nash chats with Anthony Tranchida, CEO of Grill Rescue, to unravel the secrets of his meteoric success.Anthony shares the journey from launching his innovative product on Kickstarter, where it raised an astounding $211,000 in just 30 days, to hitting $3 million in pre-orders shortly after its 2019 debut. Discover the marketing magic behind this feat, including the creation of high-quality video content, the strategic use of Facebook ads, and the surprising challenge of account bans.Dive into Anthony's email marketing playbook, where he highlights the power of consistent communication, segmented customer lists, and fruitful email swaps with complementary brands. Learn about the evolution of Grill Rescue's product line, from the indestructible "Forever Sponge" to specialized grill brush versions, and how smart product bundling can boost average order value. Anthony wraps up the episode with actionable advice on ad creation, exploring AI for outreach, and enhancing email marketing initiatives.Listen now.What was covered:Anthony Tranchida’s journey launching Grill RescueThe success of the Kickstarter campaign, raising $211,000 and generating $3 million in pre-ordersMarketing strategies including high-quality video content, Facebook ads, and dealing with account bansImportance of email marketing: regular communication, segmentation, and email swaps with complementary brandsProduct development highlights, including the "Forever Sponge" and various grill brush versionsStrategies to enhance average order value through product bundling and managing stock levelsAction items for continuous ad creation, exploring new outreach methods with AI, and improving email marketing initiativesParker Nash Links:Website: https://www.parkertnash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-parkernash/ Anthony Tranchida Links:Website: https://grillrescue.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grillrescue/Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@grillrescueFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/grillrescue/