Knock Knock: Jen Bilik

Comedy isn't always easy: this entrepreneur has learned some tough lessons manufacturing irreverent gifts that don't meet everyone's tastes.

This week we're speaking with Jen Bilik, the founder and CEO of Knock Knock. With a name like that, you might guess there is some humor involved—and you'd be right. Knock Knock is known for their funny and often blue gifts and books.

But she has to deal with risk-averse retailers and easily offended consumers. Not to mention the pot-smoking hippie manufacturing broker that bilked them out of millions of dollars in their early years. And crying employees. Jen started out as a "reluctant businesswoman" and she's very candid about her mistakes. She shares some useful lessons about growing a company and bringing a little humor into your business.

Links and social handles:

Website for all three companies (Who's There Group): http://thewhostheregroup.com/

This is [NOT] L.A. book: http://ThisIsNotLA.com/

Knock Knock on Instagram and Twitter: @knockknock

Also, follow Jen on Instagram @jenbilik (mostly pictures of her dog, Paco), on Twitter @JenBilik (to which she never posts), and on Facebook.

For more information, bios, and links, check out the show notes at http://makeitinla.org/knockknock