BookShop.org - How to Keep Your Local Book Stores Alive!

This episode is brought to you by Compass Rose and SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands In this episode, we interview Andy Hunter, Founder and CEO of BookShop.org. Bookshop is an online bookstore that aims to financially support local, independent bookstores. Bookshop is also a BCorp - a corporation dedicated to the public good. By design, they give away over 80% of their profit margin to stores and affiliates of stores: publications, authors, and others who make up the thriving, inspirational culture around books! Below are the key takeaways from our conversation: * Andy's passion for helping local bookstores thrive in the digital age through Bookshop.org. * He discussed how he struggled to secure investment and the need for champions like Morgan Entrekin who believe in an entrepreneur's vision and abilities. * The importance of merging different disciplines and skills to create unique and impactful work in the business world. * A discussion on how artificial intelligence might reshape the job market and the ever-growing importance of critical thinking skills. * The struggle for small businesses to survive in the shadow of giants like Amazon and the detrimental effects of anti-competitive practices. * Overcoming the challenges of limited budgets and the ever-changing social media landscape to reach customers effectively. * How Bookshop.org's model of connecting customers to local bookstores and handling logistics has led to profitability that supports the community. * The platform's expansion through organic growth, media attention, and the power of storytelling. * The call for conscious consumerism that prioritizes community and local businesses. * Supporting local businesses as an act of community-building and resistance against market monopolies is important. * Encouragement for listeners to choose platforms that align with their values, like Bookshop.org. Call to Action: * Visit Bookshop.org to support your local bookstore. * Share the episode with friends and family to spread awareness about the importance of local bookstores. * Join the conversation on social media using #SupportLocalBookstores. Join Ramon Vela and Andy Hunter as we break down the inside story of Tonal on The Story of a Brand. For more on BookShop.org, visit: https://bookshop.org/ Remember to follow the show for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of business and wellness. * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/ Compass Rose works with founders and executive teams to help identify issues and opportunities and work with you to operationalize the brand so you can grow and scale profitably, raise funds, innovate, and more. Visit for more information.  SARAL  - The Influencer OS for Brands: http://storybrandoffer.com/ Claim an "exclusive onboarding" offer for the listeners of The Story of a Brand Show. The Saral Team will work directly with you and offer weekly check-ins and 1:1 consulting until you succeed. Visit using our unique link.