Wellnesse: The Clean Brand Taking On the Dirty Truth

Turns out the secret to a spicy marriage isn’t a six-pack or a Ferrari - it’s a spray bottle that smells like sandalwood swagger. Meet Sean Busch, dad-preneur behind DadMode, the cleaning line that is built for modern fatherhood and finally gives guys a reason to wipe down the sink.    In this episode Jacqueline grills Sean on: Evicting artificial lavender from your pantry. How matte-black aluminum bottles and seductive scents beat the day-glow plastic that’s been haunting grocery shelves for decades. Gamifying chores for maximum… gratitude. (Yes, there are sexy stats. Yes, they’re spicy.) Building a challenger brand without mansplaining. How to talk to dads like adults, not toddlers with power tools. Scent science 101. Memory, pheromones and the moment your partner says, “Wait…you cleaned?” How grocery-aisle domination is planned. Wins, face-plants, and the master plan for a full DadMode ecosystem that would make Mr. Clean sweat.   Why hit play?Because you love brands that make people laugh and buy. Because your marketing deck needs a jolt of dad energy. Or you just need some good ideas for your product strategy.   Press play. Get tidy. Thank us later.     About our Guest: Sean Busch is the founder of DadMode and co-founder of Puracy, two breakout brands in the natural cleaning space.   With over 28,000 hours in cleaning and product development, he scaled Puracy to $30M+ (and exited) before launching DadMode—cleaning products built for modern fatherhood. Equal parts entrepreneur and hands-on dad, Sean’s mission is simple: clean better, parent harder, and laugh through the chaos.    You can learn more about DadMode here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@godadmode TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@godadmode Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadmode/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godadmode LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seantbusch/   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warning: this episode might make you throw out half your bathroom shelf. Today, we’re talking with Seth Spears—digital marketer turned clean-ingredient crusader and founder of Wellnesse, a brand that proves your toothpaste doesn’t have to be toxic—or boring. Tune in as we dive into Seth’s journey from marketing to manufacturing, the dirty truth behind “clean” products, and how Wellnesse is making personal care safer for everyone.   Here's what you’ll learn: Why marketing clean products is harder than it looks The wild stuff hiding in your personal care routine and what to swap it with How Wellnesse uses real consumer feedback to develop products that actually work   Sure, we talk about what’s hiding in your shampoo—but we also get into the real grit: how to build a brand people trust and what happens when you refuse to sell out.   About our Guest: Seth Spears is an entrepreneur, business connector, outdoorsman, and angel investor dedicated to building purpose-driven brands that prioritize mission over margin and purpose over profit.   He is the Co-Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Wellnesse, a B Corp Certified brand offering all-natural personal care products that outperform conventional, toxic alternatives, and the founder of Rewild Gear, an outdoor equipment company inspiring wilderness adventures through sustainable, high-quality tools.   You can learn more about Wellnesse at https://wellnesse.com/.   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s episode of Uncooked, I’m sitting down with Gioel and Ronni Molinari, founders of Autostrada—a boutique car storage and social club in Westport, CT. It started as a simple idea: a safe, stylish spot for vehicle storage. But then… plot twist… it morphed into a buzzing social club, where car enthusiasts gather in an exceptional space that allows vehicles to be appreciated as art. In this chat, we explore the journey behind Autostrada’s inception. And spoiler alert: This isn’t a story about cars—it’s a business story about rethinking what a niche market can become when you expand the brand’s value beyond just one service. Episode highlights: A masterclass in adaptability: How they swerved when life threw a curveball, crushing the original business plan. More than a building: How real relationships are formed using cars as the backdrop. Premium programming rules: How weekend rallies, Kate’s cocktails, and Esme’s cappuccinos ensure member engagement stays at an all-time high. Grab your headphones, buckle up, and get ready for a ride through grit, gumption, and the art of turning storage into something spectacular.   About our Guests:  Gioel Molinari is a technology entrepreneur and former President of Butterfly Network. He began his career in industrial automation and was then founder, president and CTO of ClariFI Inc., a software platform to simplify quantitative equity investing. ClariFI was acquired by S&P Capital IQ in 2007. Subsequently Molinari held senior product and technology leadership roles at Bloomberg LP and Bridgewater Associates. Mr. Molinari holds a BS in Chemical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. Ronni Molinari is an architectural designer with over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial projects across South Florida, New York, and Connecticut. Recently, she has focused on consulting as an owner’s representative, overseeing workplace design, facilities coordination, and construction management. Since 2020, Ronni has also been leading Autostrada Westport, a passion project with her husband Gioel, creating a unique car storage facility and social club in Fairfield County, Connecticut. The space integrates a member lounge, office, and event areas, allowing vehicles to be appreciated as art. Outside of work, Ronni is a proud mother of three sons and enjoys spending time outdoors with her golden retriever.   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Gillian “Gilly” Stollwerk Garrett, the founder of Gilly's Organics, shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey from her background in writing and marketing to creating a successful clean skincare line. If you're a marketer or owner navigating the challenges of building a brand in a competitive market, Gilly’s story is packed with actionable insights on marketing strategies and tips for how to know your audience.   Key Takeaways: Brand Strategy When You are the Brand: Discover how Gilly leveraged her personal passion for clean living to create a brand that connects with customers on a deeper level. Marketing in the Clean Beauty Space: Hear how Gilly’s organic approach to marketing helped her reach the shelf at Whole Foods. Future Growth and Product Launches: Get a peek into the strategic planning behind upcoming product launches and how Gilly ties it all back to a broader mission of empowering women.   This episode also delves into the evolving landscape of clean beauty, the importance of understanding your audience, and how to lead with purpose in both product development and marketing. Tune in for a masterclass on how to build a brand that resonates, grows, and leaves a lasting impact.   About our Guest: Gillian Stollwerk Garrett (aka "Gilly") is a tried-and-true wellness ambassador, an inspirer, a "mixologist," a business coach, show host, and influencer. You can find this magnetic mother of 3 whipping up batches of organic skincare, speaking to a crowd of passionate entrepreneurs, interviewing "rockstars, " sharing out amazing brands that align with hers, and taking care of herself and her family. Gilly insists we take time every day to recharge! You can find her healing, organic, vegan skincare products at www.gillysorganics.com, on Amazon and at wellness centers, health food stores, boutiques and workout studios across the U.S.   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we explore the intricacies of launching a small business, the power of quality ingredients, and the importance of having a clear purpose with Vikki Krinsky, Chef and Founder of VK Energy Bar. A young actress turned private chef for Hollywood celebrities, Vikki was driven by keeping her client’s energy high and nutrition balanced on grueling days on set. The idea for VK Energy Bars was born when Vikki was tasked to rescue Seth MacFarlane from his caffeine obsession during the filming of his TV show.   Today as a chef and entrepreneur, Vikki is focused on changing the way we think about energy and nutrition. Harnessing the power of energy dynamo Vitamin B12, VK Energy Bars are delicious and thoughtfully made for busy people and long days. Vikki shares invaluable insights from her entrepreneurial journey, from overcoming manufacturing hurdles to staying focused on her mission to elevate everyone’s day with good energy. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and intention.   Key highlights of what we cover: How bootstrapping, passion and self-discovery shaped Vikki's business journey How taking bets on yourself is the best gamble of all Why focus + perseverance is the secret formula every business owner needs   About our Guest: Vikki Krinsky's journey from the competitive soccer fields to the vibrant world of Hollywood reflects a story of resilience and determination. Originating from South Africa and later settling in Canada, she transitioned from the unpredictability of acting to mastering the culinary arts, earning respect among Hollywood's elite. Throughout her career, she has served renowned celebrities, athletes, and executives, accumulating a wealth of experience and expertise. Motivated by a desire to extend her impact beyond Hollywood, Vikki ventured into entrepreneurship, founding a pioneering Vitamin B12 energy bar company. As a determined solo female founder, she is dedicated to promoting wellness, body positivity, and nutritional balance, sparking conversations that inspire positive change.   You can connect with Vikki on your favorite social platforms @ChefVikkiK or @VKenergybar    Try out VK Energy Bar at www.vkenergybar.com   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’re introduced to the next generation of virtual shopping with Samantha Lerner, the VP of Marketing at Obsess. Obsess builds stunning virtual storefronts that are revolutionizing online shopping experiences for brands such as Coach, Ferragamo, Dyson and Ralph Lauren for example. Samantha shares a mini masterclass on how audience shopping behavior differs in virtual reality and how brands are using Obsess to create deeper relationships with customers.   Key highlights of what we cover: The Power of Creating Emotion with Virtual Reality How to Compete in the Landscape of Virtual Storefronts What the Future of Retail Looks Like with Obsess   About our Guest: Samantha Lerner Kobrin is an audience-obsessed brand storyteller, with a passion for innovation in content and commerce. She has worked across brand, digital and product teams as a marketing leader at celebrated fashion, food and travel brands of varying sizes—from Barneys New York and Elite World Group, to Baked by Melissa and Skyscanner. Samantha is currently the VP of Marketing at Obsess, an experiential e-commerce platform that enables brands and retailers to create immersive, branded, discovery-driven 3D virtual stores on their websites. Obsess has launched over 300 virtual experiences for brands such as Ralph Lauren, Charlotte Tilbury, J.Crew, Corona and more—driving consumer engagement, brand loyalty and conversion.   Connect with Samantha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-lerner-kobrin-50866164/   Connect with Obsess on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/10689169/   Visit the Obsess Website: https://obsessar.com/   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I’m discussing the power of community with the CMO of Podium Nutrition, Dylan Jones. Podium began by formulating pre and post workout powders born within the CrossFit community. My conversation with Dylan is mini masterclass for how to use audience understanding to make product decisions, develop a marketing strategy and forge like-minded partnerships. Dylan shares insights into how Podium measures customer retention, leveraging the all-important email subscriber list, and how his entrepreneurial ventures fit into his professional purpose. Some highlights of what we cover: How Podium was built from within the CrossFit community Why supplement brands are so hard to trust How Podium places lots of bets and feeds the marketing winner The importance of treating consumers like VIPs when launching a new brand How having a long-term vision relies in being hyper-intentional in business   About Dylan Jones: Dylan Jones is the CMO of PODIUM Nutrition, an omni-channel modern sports nutrition brand, as well as the Founder of Buddies Snacks Company, set to launch very soon with Buddies Gum.   Connect with Dylan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jylandones/ Find out more about Podium: https://www.321podium.com/   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s unfiltered truth comes from my guest, Ian Stewart, the CMO of Wedge Brands. Wedge Brands is a Private Equity firm run by surfers, who manages a portfolio of outdoor brands that includes Xcel Wetsuits. Wedge Brands has a unique model, focusing on providing back-office support to share across the brand portfolio, so owners can focus on growth, not logistics. This episode is a masterclass in brand building through e-commerce, from Ian who has done it his entire career. He’s stood behind the most iconic brands of our culture such as Nike, Coca-Cola, Converse, TOMS Shoes and MTV. Don’t miss this conversation where we discuss how to fix your abandon cart rates and convert more customers in the sales funnel. We also digress and touch upon what makes surfing a “Zen” activity. Some highlights of what we cover: How Wedge Brands helps build businesses for the long-term How Ian applies his iconic expertise to the brand portfolio The importance of being a patient and consistent marketer Successful blocking and tackling tactics of an e-commerce business   About Ian Stewart: Ian Stewart is the CMO of Wedge Brands, a private equity firm managing a portfolio of surf and snow brands that includes Xcel Wetsuits. Prior to Wedge, Ian was the CMO of TOMS Shoes, VP Marketing UGG, and VP Marketing Converse. Ian has also worked in marketing roles at MTV and Coca-Cola.   Connect with Ian on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iansb77/ Check out Xcel Wetsuits here: https://xcelwetsuits.com/  Check out here: https://wedgebrands.com/   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re ringing in episode 50 with leadership and marketing insights from Global President of Kenneth Cole, Jed Berger. Listen in as Jed breaks down the multi-decade evolution of Kenneth Cole and how he’s using his entrepreneurial mindset to help the legacy brand continue to evolve with the changing demands of the young professional. Jed also shares how he’s focused on supporting the culture of Kenneth Cole by leading in alignment with brand purpose.  Some highlights of what we cover: How Jed is laying the groundwork as a new leader by focusing on purpose first Why Kenneth Cole is focused on social advocacy as part of his brand mission How Kenneth Cole’s bootstrapping beginnings impact the brand purpose today The importance of incorporating brand values into the product details   About Jed Berger: Jed currently serves as the Global President of Kenneth Cole. Formerly, he was the Global Chief Marketing Officer for the Foot Locker family of brands, where he also led business areas such as licensing, digital and product development. Career highlights include creating Foot Locker’s award-winning “Approved” campaign and the “Week of Greatness,” launching their loyalty program and their incubator Greenhouse, and many of the company’s investments.   Learn more about Kenneth Cole and Jed here:   Kenneth Cole: Twitter: https://twitter.com/kennethcole IG: https://www.instagram.com/kennethcole/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kenneth-cole-productions/   Jed Berger: Twitter: https://twitter.com/jedberger?lang=en IG: https://www.instagram.com/jed.berger/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jed-berger-273b734/   If you’re a brand looking for market differentiation but don’t know where to begin, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

High quality products demand a perfect environment to thrive. Chief Marketing Officer of Grove Bags, Lance Lambert says that perfection can be obtained with a little bit of science, a keen eye for details, and a lot of handshakes. This week Lance and I are discussing how Grove Bags is showcasing the passion of the cannabis community with the perfect storage system that outperforms stereotypical jars and baggies on every level. Lance shares how his grassroots marketing efforts are focused on navigating the Wild West of the booming cannabis industry through education, establishing trust with growers, and breaking stereotypes along the way. Some highlights of what we cover: How stereotypical sandwich bags impact the highest quality cannabis Why you’ll never see a Grove Bags ad on Facebook The details of Lance’s bottom-up and top-down marketing strategy How Grove Bags is disrupting the perception of cannabis users and demanding industry innovation   Lance C. Lambert spent years cultivating brands and telling stories in the digital media and marketing space prior to shifting his expertise to the legal cannabis industry in 2013. He has had a strong focus on marketing and business development ever since, taking several brands global. In 2022, he was named Chief Marketing Officer at Grove Bags, where he was tasked with growing the company’s footprint at home and abroad. As a cancer survivor having grown up in Northern California, he embraces and actively advocates the benefits of cannabis.   Connect with Lance: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanceclambert/ Grove Bags LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grove-bags/ Grove Bags IG page: https://www.instagram.com/grovebag Grove Bags YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA6-oCo8HcL_0xQqver4-FA   If you’re a brand who needs tangible ways to put purpose into practice throughout your marketing, this is what the host specializes in. Contact Jacqueline Lieberman at her marketing consultancy www.brandcrudo.com or [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.