How Val Emanuel Co-Founded RIF Care and Disrupted Period Care with Hemp

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Shelf Talks, host Roberta interviews Valerie Emanuel, co-founder of Rif Care, a sustainable feminine care brand. Valerie shares her journey from modeling to entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges and triumphs of launching a product-based business in the wellness space. The conversation covers the importance of community, feedback, and iteration in product development, as well as the complexities of navigating retail and building a brand that resonates with consumers. Valerie emphasizes the significance of face-to-face connections and the impact of media on brand visibility, while also providing valuable insights for aspiring founders looking to secure retail deals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rif Care and Valerie's Journey02:56 Valerie's Early Career and Transition to Entrepreneurship05:47 The Birth of Rif Care and Overcoming Challenges08:41 Manufacturing and Product Development Insights11:42 Feedback and Iteration on Products14:41 Retail Launch and Customer Engagement17:38 Navigating Retail Challenges and Slotting Fees20:21 The Importance of Face-to-Face Connections23:29 Future Plans and Expansion for Rif Care26:26 The Impact of Media and Community Engagement29:25 Final Thoughts and Retail Readiness TipsLink to Rif Care:Rif Care Website: https://rifcare.com/Rif Care Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rifcare/?hl=en Rif Care Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rifcare?lang=enFind retailers on Rif Care Website. Support the showEvent Partner: Nourish Summit & Expo (Oct. 5-7, 2027 | Baltimore) - Use code SHELFTALKS10 for 10% off full registration https://bit.ly/4sx0ZbaLooking for more? Visit our Linktree for the latest episodes, free resources, retail tips, and ways to connect with the Shelf Talks community.https://linktr.ee/shelftalkspodcastLove what you hear on Shelf Talks? You can now support the podcast. Every contribution helps bring more indie voices to the mic. Thank you for being part of this journey! ✨https://www.buzzsprout.com/2411532/supportContact us via email: [email protected] Reach out if you know of a female founder with an impactful brand and retail story and leave a review if you found value in this episode! [email protected] the book Shelf Talk: A step by step guide to launching your product in Retail Stores by Roberta Townes Buy Book