Building A "Factory Without Borders" with Jacob Rothman

In this episode, Scott Pollack interviews Jacob Rothman, co-founder and co-CEO of Velong Enterprises, who has spent two decades building Velong into a 5,000-employee global operation that manufactures consumer goods for top retailers worldwide. Jacob shares how he and his partner Iven Chen have expanded manufacturing operations from a single town in China to include several facilities in Cambodia and India, overcoming cultural gaps, supply-chain hurdles, and unforeseen global events. He speaks candidly about the challenges and doubts that come with moving 20 years of knowledge, relationships, and equipment across borders. Listeners will learn the importance of perseverance, partnerships built on mutual respect, and staying flexible in a rapidly changing global landscape.Show Notes[00:00] TeaserJacob introduces the pivotal challenge of shifting manufacturing outside of China.He notes both the exciting growth opportunities and the lingering doubt around relocating a 20-year-old supply chain.[00:46–02:09] Intro[02:09] Meet Jacob RothmanScott highlights Velong’s substantial footprint: 5,000 employees and operations spanning China, Cambodia, and India.Jacob traces his early path in his family’s broom-and-brush business in California, followed by sourcing trips to China that evolved into a permanent venture.[06:37] Founding Velong EnterprisesJacob and Ivan Chen capitalize on the transition from traditional trading companies to more self-sufficient Chinese factories.Their co-CEO structure prioritizes teamwork and respect over formal job titles.[10:49] Personal Struggles & Culture ShiftsJacob emphasizes the importance of seeing Ivan as a genuine equal, moving beyond the “customer-vendor” relationship.Mutual respect, openness, and a shared vision prevent major co-founder conflicts.[13:04] Defining Moment: Supply Chain DiversificationTariffs and geopolitical changes prompt the expansion to Cambodia and India.Jacob compares China’s robust, on-demand supply chain to the “lunar landing” reality of building factories in developing regions.[17:41] Cambodia & India RealitiesLimited local suppliers and distinct cultural dynamics require more training and careful oversight.Jacob views these expansions as both a test of Velong’s resilience and its greatest growth catalyst.[21:02] Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)One Book Every Entrepreneur Should Read:Good Strategy/Bad Strategy by Richard RumeltMorning Success Habit: Daily exercise initiated during COVID.Essential Tool: Apple Notes for continuous list-making and organization.Grounding Practice: Vipassana meditation for mindfulness and humility.Top Advice Received: “Keep going” and “know your numbers.”[25:20] If Starting OverJacob stresses creating a culture that cuts through borders and biases.He attributes Velong’s global achievements to fostering true equality among team members.[27:30] Parting ThoughtsJacob reflects on “living his best life,” leading a company that impacts thousands of employees and their families.Scott wraps up the conversation, encouraging listeners to subscribe and share.[28:21] Outro