TrepTalks with Sushant

Lindzi Shanks, co-founder of XO Marshmallow, a gourmet marshmallow e-commerce company based in Chicago. Lindzi shares the fascinating journey of starting XO Marshmallow with just $200 and growing it into a multi-million dollar business. She delves into how the idea for custom-flavored marshmallows was born, the power of social media in their success, and their innovative products. Lindzi also discusses the challenges of scaling a food business, the importance of having the right people, and her vision for the company’s future. Tune in for valuable insights and the inspiring story of entrepreneurship.

Dawn LaFontaine, founder of Cat in the Box, shares her story of starting a Cat Wool Toys and Playhouses products business out of love for cats and also to be more in control of her working life. Dawn shares some of the challenges she faced in creating her products and also the successes in getting traction from the market and a community of cat lovers that buy from her as well as how she is scaling her business.

Ben Sarrazin, founder of Yuba Bikes, a pioneering company on a mission to transform urban mobility through high-quality, eco-friendly cargo bikes. With a background in environmental science and a lifelong passion for cycling, Ben shares the story behind Yuba’s creation and his vision for sustainable transportation. We explore the early challenges of building a cargo bike market, the complexities of manufacturing and supply chains, and the strategies that helped Yuba reach its customers. Ben offers valuable insights into product development, market targeting, and the entrepreneurial mindset—emphasizing the power of purpose-driven innovation and the importance of retaining control over your business.

Ishan Dutta, Founder of Ugly Duckling Color shares how he transitioned from the corporate work at L'Oréal to finding an unmet need and niche in the Hair Color products category which inspired him to start his own business. Ishaan shares details about hair color industry, customer preferences, as well as insights on marketing.

Steven Sashen, founder of Xero Shoes shares the story of building an innovative footwear company where the products (shoes) allow natural barefoot fit and comfort and let feet do what is natural - bending, flexing, moving, and feeling. Steven talks about building the company initially through organic growth, shark-tank experience, and being profitable from the start.