Marc Lore | Mercenary to Missionary: The Man Behind Jet.com, Diapers.com, and Wonder

The Founder Hour

26:28

Squid Game is back—and this time, the knives are out. In the thrilling Season 3 premiere, Player 456 is spiraling and a brutal round of hide-and-seek forces players to kill or be killed. Hosts Phil Yu and Kiera Please break down Gi-hun’s descent into vengeance, Guard 011’s daring betrayal of the Game, and the shocking moment players are forced to choose between murdering their friends… or dying. Then, Carlos Juico and Gavin Ruta from the Jumpers Jump podcast join us to unpack their wild theories for the season. Plus, Phil and Kiera face off in a high-stakes round of “Hot Sweet Potato.” SPOILER ALERT! Make sure you watch Squid Game Season 3 Episode 1 before listening on. Play one last time. IG - @SquidGameNetflix X (f.k.a. Twitter) - @SquidGame Check out more from Phil Yu @angryasianman , Kiera Please @kieraplease and the Jumpers Jump podcast Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . Squid Game: The Official Podcast is produced by Netflix and The Mash-Up Americans.…

about a year ago 54:52

MP3•Episode home

Marc Lore is a serial entrepreneur and self-made billionaire renowned for his innovative ventures in e-commerce. From an early age, he harbored a passion for growth and risk-taking, wanting to be a farmer when he was 4 years old. While not a farmer in the traditional sense, Marc's entrepreneurial journey mirrors the same principles of cultivating and nurturing ideas into successful enterprises.

Marc has founded and sold several companies, notably Jet.com, which was acquired by Walmart for $3.3 billion in 2016, and Diapers.com/Quidsi, acquired by Amazon in 2011 for $550 million. In 2021, he founded Telosa, a proposed $400 billion futuristic city he envisions to be a model for urban living with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and quality of life. In the same year, he also launched Wonder, recently raising $700 million to build curated food halls offering a diverse selection of top chefs and restaurants nationwide.

Marc's approach to entrepreneurship emphasizes building mission-driven cultures, prioritizing customer value, assembling exceptional teams, and empowering them to achieve ambitious goals swiftly. His evolution from "mercenary" to "missionary" reflects his transition from pure profit-driven ventures to a deeper commitment to fostering startup ecosystems and guiding fellow founders through the challenging startup landscape.

Marc is also the owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx basketball franchises, along with partner Alex Rodriguez. Driven by a desire to push boundaries and support the next generation of entrepreneurs, he continues to inspire and empower others with his wealth of experience and strategic insights into building successful businesses.

***

CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail.

Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution.

Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way.

Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour. Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today.

***

The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last.

For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour. Terms and conditions apply.

***

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279 episodes

The Founder Hour

Marc Lore | Mercenary to Missionary: The Man Behind Jet.com, Diapers.com, and Wonder

The Founder Hour

34 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

***

CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail.

Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way.

***

For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour. Terms and conditions apply.

***

Follow The Founder Hour on:

Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour

Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour

LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour

YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour

279 episodes

All episodes

The Founder Hour

1
Vinny Dotolo | Award-Winning Chef and Co-Owner of Jon & Vinny’s 1:29:55

41 weeks ago1:29:55

1:29:55

Vinny Dotolo is a Los Angeles-based chef and restaurateur, recognized for his contributions to the city’s food scene. He is the chef and co-owner of Jon & Vinny’s and Helen’s Wines, with locations in Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Fairfax, Slauson, Studio City, and globally. He also operates Cookbook Market in Echo Park, Highland Park, and Larchmont Village, along with Carmelized Productions, a full-service catering company. Vinny has been accredited with several awards including Food & Wine’s Best New Chef (2009) and James Beard (2016) for “Best Chef West” for animal restaurant, which closed in 2023. Beyond the kitchen, he is an active supporter of many charities including No Kid Hungry, Alex’s Lemonade, and Baby2Baby. * The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. Still using your personal phone number for your startup in 2024? OpenPhone makes it easy to get business phone numbers for your team with an app that works on both phone and computer. It integrates with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce, and offers AI-powered call transcripts and summaries. Plus, your whole team can access the same number. Start at $15/user/month, but The Founder Hour listeners get 20% off for 6 months. Visit https://www.openphone.com/founder to start your free trial! Stressed, sleepless, or need a health boost? Try Magnesium Breakthrough from BiOptimizers! It’s the only supplement with 7 types of magnesium, each with unique benefits like muscle recovery, heart health, and energy production. All-natural, vegan, and gluten-free. Visit www.bioptimizers.com/founderhour and use code FOUNDERHOUR for 10% off. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Joel Madden | Good Charlotte, Veeps, and the Music Business 1:23:27

44 weeks ago1:23:27

1:23:27

Joel Madden is a musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer best known as the lead vocalist for the pop-punk band Good Charlotte. Born in Maryland, Madden co-founded Good Charlotte in the mid-1990s with his twin brother, Benji Madden. The band rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like "Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous" and "The Anthem," becoming a staple in the punk rock and alternative music scenes. Beyond his work with Good Charlotte, Madden has collaborated with various artists, worked as a coach on "The Voice Australia," and co-founded the management company MDDN. He is also a co-founder of Veeps, a live-streaming platform that has become a go-to for artists connecting with fans through virtual concerts. He also hosts the podcast "Artist Friendly," where he interviews musicians and creatives, offering insights into the music industry. * The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. Still using your personal phone number for your startup in 2024? OpenPhone makes it easy to get business phone numbers for your team with an app that works on both phone and computer. It integrates with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce, and offers AI-powered call transcripts and summaries. Plus, your whole team can access the same number. Start at $15/user/month, but The Founder Hour listeners get 20% off for 6 months. Visit https://www.openphone.com/founder to start your free trial! Stressed, sleepless, or need a health boost? Try Magnesium Breakthrough from BiOptimizers! It’s the only supplement with 7 types of magnesium, each with unique benefits like muscle recovery, heart health, and energy production. All-natural, vegan, and gluten-free. Visit www.bioptimizers.com/founderhour and use code FOUNDERHOUR for 10% off. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Troy Arntsen | Crafting a Luxury Candle Brand with Voluspa 56:29

45 weeks ago56:29

56:29

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. * The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. Still using your personal phone number for your startup in 2024? OpenPhone makes it easy to get business phone numbers for your team with an app that works on both phone and computer. It integrates with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce, and offers AI-powered call transcripts and summaries. Plus, your whole team can access the same number. Start at $15/user/month, but The Founder Hour listeners get 20% off for 6 months. Visit https://www.openphone.com/founder to start your free trial! Stressed, sleepless, or need a health boost? Try Magnesium Breakthrough from BiOptimizers! It’s the only supplement with 7 types of magnesium, each with unique benefits like muscle recovery, heart health, and energy production. All-natural, vegan, and gluten-free. Visit www.bioptimizers.com/founderhour and use code FOUNDERHOUR for 10% off. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Taylor Hill | Supermodel and Founder of Tate & Taylor 59:24

46 weeks ago59:24

59:24

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 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. * The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. Customers are flocking to your store—do you have a reliable point-of-sale system? Shopify POS is your retail command center, handling payments, inventory, and more. Choose from hardware options like smartphone, tablet, or Shopify's POS Go device. With award-winning support, Shopify helps you succeed every step of the way. Get started with a $1/month trial at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Still using your personal phone number for your startup in 2024? OpenPhone makes it easy to get business phone numbers for your team with an app that works on both phone and computer. It integrates with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce, and offers AI-powered call transcripts and summaries. Plus, your whole team can access the same number. Start at $15/user/month, but The Founder Hour listeners get 20% off for 6 months. Visit https://www.openphone.com/founder to start your free trial! Stressed, sleepless, or need a health boost? Try Magnesium Breakthrough from BiOptimizers! It’s the only supplement with 7 types of magnesium, each with unique benefits like muscle recovery, heart health, and energy production. All-natural, vegan, and gluten-free. Visit www.bioptimizers.com/founderhour and use code FOUNDERHOUR for 10% off. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Joe Gebbia | The Creative Force Behind Airbnb and Samara 1:17:44

47 weeks ago1:17:44

1:17:44

Joe Gebbia's journey began in Georgia, where his early interest in sports led him to work as a ball boy for the Atlanta Hawks. However, his true passion lay in art, earning him the nickname "art guy" in school as he spent countless hours drawing from comic books. This passion led him to the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where he discovered industrial design and the work of Charles and Ray Eames. A pivotal moment came when a professor doubted his art project, but Joe secured school funding and proved the professor wrong, showcasing his early entrepreneurial spirit. At RISD, Joe met Brian Chesky, and he felt an instant connection, believing they would create something significant together. After graduation, Joe moved to San Francisco and convinced Brian to join him, leading to the creation of Airbnb. Faced with skepticism and rejection from investors and law firms, Joe drew on his art background to reframe challenges as opportunities. This resilience paid off as Airbnb became a global phenomenon, changing how people travel and connect. Joe's journey at Airbnb taught him invaluable leadership lessons and underscored the importance of creativity and innovation. His artistic sensibility helped him approach problems with a fresh perspective, leading to the creation of Samara, a venture focused on reimagining home design. After Airbnb went public, Joe branched Samara out as a separate company, recognizing the potential in the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) space. Beyond Airbnb, Joe relocated to Austin, Texas, becoming a minority owner of the San Antonio Spurs and aligning his entrepreneurial pursuits with his passion for sports. Committed to making a positive impact, Joe is passionate about causes such as homelessness and environmental sustainability. He also helped establish the Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity, reflecting his commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. Joe Gebbia's story is one of resilience, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of dreams, inspiring others to embrace their passions and challenge the status quo. * The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. Customers are flocking to your store—do you have a reliable point-of-sale system? Shopify POS is your retail command center, handling payments, inventory, and more. Choose from hardware options like smartphone, tablet, or Shopify's POS Go device. With award-winning support, Shopify helps you succeed every step of the way. Get started with a $1/month trial at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Still using your personal phone number for your startup in 2024? OpenPhone makes it easy to get business phone numbers for your team with an app that works on both phone and computer. It integrates with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce, and offers AI-powered call transcripts and summaries. Plus, your whole team can access the same number. Start at $15/user/month, but The Founder Hour listeners get 20% off for 6 months. Visit https://www.openphone.com/founder to start your free trial! Stressed, sleepless, or need a health boost? Try Magnesium Breakthrough from BiOptimizers! It’s the only supplement with 7 types of magnesium, each with unique benefits like muscle recovery, heart health, and energy production. All-natural, vegan, and gluten-free. Visit www.bioptimizers.com/founderhour and use code FOUNDERHOUR for 10% off. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Michelle Wahler | Building Beyond Yoga Into a $400 Million Exit to Levi’s 1:10:27

48 weeks ago1:10:27

1:10:27

Michelle Wahler is an entrepreneur, business leader and mother. In 2005, she co-founded the active lifestyle company Beyond Yoga, where as CEO, she built the product and brand from the ground up. What started as a mere concept led to a global wholesale business, e-commerce site and opening of six retail stores, selling tens of millions of units around the world over the course of nearly 20 years. Michelle built a female-focused organization with an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, diversity and empowerment among both employees and customers. She skillfully navigated negotiations and led her team through the brand’s acquisition by Levi Strauss & Co. in 2021. Post-acquisition, she continued her role as CEO of Beyond Yoga and joined the Executive Leadership Team of Levi Strauss. Michelle was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young in 2021 and as a DEIA Visionary by the LA Times in 2023. Michelle is originally from Maryland and began her career while living in New York City. She lives in Los Angeles and is married with two children and two dogs. Michelle is active in several philanthropic causes through the family foundation she created with her husband. She also finds joy in painting, reading, and exploring through travel. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. Customers are flocking to your store—do you have a reliable point-of-sale system? Shopify POS is your retail command center, handling payments, inventory, and more. Choose from hardware options like smartphone, tablet, or Shopify's POS Go device. With award-winning support, Shopify helps you succeed every step of the way. Get started with a $1/month trial at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Still using your personal phone number for your startup in 2024? OpenPhone makes it easy to get business phone numbers for your team with an app that works on both phone and computer. It integrates with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce, and offers AI-powered call transcripts and summaries. Plus, your whole team can access the same number. Start at $15/user/month, but The Founder Hour listeners get 20% off for 6 months. Visit https://www.openphone.com/founder to start your free trial! Stressed, sleepless, or need a health boost? Try Magnesium Breakthrough from BiOptimizers! It’s the only supplement with 7 types of magnesium, each with unique benefits like muscle recovery, heart health, and energy production. All-natural, vegan, and gluten-free. Visit www.bioptimizers.com/founderhour and use code FOUNDERHOUR for 10% off. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Max Levchin | Co-Founder of PayPal and Affirm 1:15:54

49 weeks ago1:15:54

1:15:54

In this episode of The Founder Hour, we have an insightful conversation with Max Levchin, a true trailblazer in the tech world. Max’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’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—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. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. Customers are flocking to your store—do you have a reliable point-of-sale system? Shopify POS is your retail command center, handling payments, inventory, and more. Choose from hardware options like smartphone, tablet, or Shopify's POS Go device. With award-winning support, Shopify helps you succeed every step of the way. Get started with a $1/month trial at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Still using your personal phone number for your startup in 2024? OpenPhone makes it easy to get business phone numbers for your team with an app that works on both phone and computer. It integrates with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce, and offers AI-powered call transcripts and summaries. Plus, your whole team can access the same number. Start at $15/user/month, but The Founder Hour listeners get 20% off for 6 months. Visit https://www.openphone.com/founder to start your free trial! *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Joe Kudla | Innovating Athletic Apparel with Vuori 1:04:35

50 weeks ago1:04:35

1:04:35

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. *** CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail. Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution. Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way. Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Niki Nakayama | Two-Michelin-Starred Chef and Owner of n/naka 54:40

51 weeks ago54:40

54:40

Niki Nakayama’s cooking is driven by intuition. At her two-Michelin-starred restaurant, n/naka in West Los Angeles, she masters modern kaiseki, a Japanese dining discipline focused on taste, texture, and presentation. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nakayama began her culinary career at Takao restaurant in Brentwood and refined her skills in Japan. She later opened Azami Sushi Café, gaining fame for her omakase menu. At n/naka, Nakayama creates exquisite, seasonally-inspired dishes, making it one of L.A.’s toughest reservations. The restaurant has been on the Los Angeles Times’ “101 Best Restaurants” list annually since 2013 and has garnered widespread media attention. Nakayama was a James Beard Foundation Award finalist for Outstanding Chef in 2023. Sustainability is key at n/naka, with 70% of ingredients sourced locally. Nakayama’s kaiseki philosophy highlights natural flavors and seasonal purity. During the pandemic, Nakayama and her wife, Carole Iida-Nakayama, launched n/soto in West Adams, starting as a takeout restaurant and later becoming an izakaya-inspired eatery. *** CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail. Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution. Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way. Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Larry Fitzgibbon | Co-Founder and CEO of Tastemade 1:04:07

52 weeks ago1:04:07

1:04:07

Larry Fitzgibbon is the co-founder and CEO of Tastemade, a global video platform with hundreds of millions of monthly viewers. Under his leadership, Tastemade has created a vibrant community around its Food, Travel, and Home & Design programming, available across digital, mobile, streaming, and TV platforms. Larry helped raise over $130 million in venture capital from partners including Redpoint Ventures, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Amazon. Before Tastemade, Larry was a founding team member at Demand Media, leading the company through its 2011 IPO and growing its audience to over 140 million unique visitors. He also held executive roles at CitySearch and Intertainer, focusing on business development and distribution strategies. *** CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail. Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution. Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way. Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Jennifer Hyman | Democratizing Designer Fashion with Rent the Runway 1:15:33

1 year ago1:15:33

1:15:33

Jennifer Hyman is the co-founder and CEO of Rent The Runway, a pioneering fashion technology company that has revolutionized the way women get dressed. Under her leadership, Rent The Runway has grown into a multi-million dollar business, offering clothing and accessory rentals from over 700 designer brands. Jennifer’s vision for a more sustainable and accessible fashion industry has garnered her numerous accolades, including recognition on Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list. With a background in economics from Harvard University and an MBA from Harvard Business School, she is a respected thought leader in entrepreneurship and innovation. *** CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail. Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution. Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way. Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Aaron Levie | How Box Pioneered Cloud Content Management 55:41

1 year ago55:41

55:41

Aaron Levie is the co-founder and CEO of Box, a trailblazing enterprise content management and collaboration platform. Since starting Box in 2005, Aaron has led the company to become a global leader in cloud computing, transforming how businesses manage and share information. He is a prominent voice in the tech industry, frequently discussing the future of work and digital transformation. In this episode, we discuss his early life, his passion for magic and computers, the cold email that landed him an angel investment from Mark Cuban, why he loves enterprise software, his thoughts on AI and the future, and much more. *** CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail. Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution. Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way. Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Angie Hicks | How Angie’s List Became a Household Name 52:52

1 year ago52:52

52:52

Angie Hicks is the co-founder of Angi (formerly Angie’s List). She started Angie’s List in 1995, which has grown over nearly 30 years from supporting a few cities, to the first national digital directory for home improvement, through an IPO, an acquisition and a rebrand. Hicks has worn many different hats during her time at Angi, but today, she is focused on getting back to basics and meeting directly with hundreds of customers to understand their needs, ensuring their feedback shapes Angi's future. *** CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail. Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution. Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way. Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Ray Dalio | Founder of Bridgewater Associates, Philanthropist, and Author of “Principles” 1:04:56

1 year ago1:04:56

1:04:56

Ray Dalio is an American billionaire investor, philanthropist, and author. He founded Bridgewater Associates, the world's largest hedge fund, in 1975 out of his two-bedroom apartment. Under his leadership, Bridgewater grew into one of the most successful investment firms globally, renowned for its innovative approaches to economics and finance. Dalio is also a celebrated author, having written the #1 New York Times bestselling book, "Principles," which outlines his philosophy on life and work, offering insights drawn from his extensive experience in the financial world. TIME magazine named him one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World” and Forbes has recognized him as one of the “100 Wealthiest People in the World.” *** CHA-CHING! Customers are rushing to your store. Do you have a point-of-sale system you can trust or is it (ahem) a real P.O.S.? You need Shopify for retail. Shopify POS is your command center for your retail store. From accepting payments to managing inventory, Shopify has EVERYTHING you need to sell in person. Get hardware that fits your business. Take payments by smartphone, transform your tablet into a point-of-sale system, or use Shopify’s POS Go mobile device for a battle-tested solution. Plus, Shopify’s award-winning help is there to support your success every step of the way. Do retail right with Shopify. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at www.shopify.com/founderhour . Once again, go to www.shopify.com/founderhour to take your retail business to the next level today. *** The Founder Hour is brought to you by Outer. Outer makes the world’s most beautiful, comfortable, innovative, and high-quality outdoor furniture - ALL from sustainable materials - and is the ONLY outdoor furniture with a patented built-in cover to make protecting it effortless. From teak chairs to fire pit tables, everything Outer makes has the look and feel of what you’d expect at a 5-star resort, for less than you’d pay at a big box store for something that won’t last. For a limited time, get 10% off at www.liveouter.com/thefounderhour . Terms and conditions apply. *** Follow The Founder Hour on: Instagram | www.instagram.com/thefounderhour Twitter/X | www.x.com/thefounderhour LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/thefounderhour YouTube | www.youtube.com/@thefounderhour…

The Founder Hour

1
Keith Rabois | Venture Capitalist and Co-Founder of Opendoor and OpenStore 58:23

1 year ago58:23