How a Quarter-Life Crisis Sparked a National Brand

Megan Riggs joins the discussion to share her journey and the evolution of her business, Crunchy, while offering holiday stress solutions. The conversation covers holistic health approaches, self-assessment strategies, and the importance of celebrating small wins through customer stories. Megan delves into market research and product development, highlighted by the Crunchy Chug Off event and the Thrive Market launch. The episode explores retail expansion timing, scaling challenges, and the impact of retail visibility on direct sales. Branding, social media presence, and Heather's role at Crunchy are discussed alongside top-selling products and community support. The episode concludes with a tease of an upcoming product launch and local recommendations.     (0:00) Intro and greetings with Zack Miller and Tim Ryan (1:01) Introduction of guest Megan Riggs and holiday stress solutions (3:19) Megan Riggs' journey and the evolution of Crunchy (10:25) Holistic health approaches and self-assessment strategies (18:15) Customer stories and celebrating small wins (24:24) Market research, product development, and the Crunchy Chug Off event (28:40) Thrive Market launch and networking tips (33:01) Retail expansion timing and readiness (35:34) Scaling and distribution challenges (39:52) Impact of retail visibility on direct sales (44:02) Branding and social media presence (47:23) Heather's background and role at Crunchy (51:00) Top-selling products and the importance of market research (53:19) Community support, mentorship, and mentoring young entrepreneurs (57:34) Tease of upcoming product launch and development challenges (59:44) Local recommendations and future plans     - Stress relief and holistic health can be effectively achieved through natural solutions like cold-pressed juices and adaptogens, as demonstrated by Megan Riggs' journey and product development. - The success of a consumer product, especially in the competitive beverage industry, hinges not only on its quality but also on strategic marketing, market research, and fostering strong retail relationships. - Achieving business milestones, such as national distribution or significant retail partnerships, often requires persistence, adaptability, and leveraging community support and mentorship.   https://www.drinkcrunchy.com/   Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.   Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter