What the World Is Like Raising Babies | Russ and Mike | Hello Bello

Russ is a repeat startup founder with a consistent track record of getting companies from zero to 8 figures+ of revenue. He’s previously on the founding team at Hello Bello. Mike is an entrepreneur and angel investor with 10+ years experience in consumer tech and products. He’s previously a founder of PRNCPLS, Co-Founder of Cameo (acquired by Vimeo), Partner at Parlor Coffee. Freestyle's diapers and wipes are sold at over 1000 grocery stores around the US, including at all Whole Foods locations nationwide. See their latest designs at www dot freestyle dot world.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:48] Intro[01:31] Connecting with your potential co-founder[02:31] Establishing what differentiates you from the rest[03:11] Using an organic ingredient as a main component[03:58] The balance between co-founders & their skill sets[05:48] Delegation and stepping into each other’s shoes[07:13] Unique challenges of running a diaper brand[08:40] Validating the idea through market research[09:14] Run ambitious tests to try out if the idea works[10:06] Episode sponsors[15:13] Dedicating a budget and a strategy[16:20] The ideation behind building a prototype[17:19] Keeping the capital intact through fundraising[18:17] Timeline: from inception to the official launch[19:12] Using relevant influencers to spread the word[19:42] Launching limited edition merch and accessories[20:21] The stereotyped story of becoming a dad[21:05] The inspiring story Freestyle wants to deliver[21:58] Collaborating with the community[23:05] Allocating budget to re-engage audiences[23:38] Ensuring a seamless retail experience[24:12] Having multiple touch points for wider reach[24:44] The secret to a successful D2C business[25:46] Where to get high-performance diaper & wipesResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeHigh-performing diapers for parents and for the planet freestyle.world/Follow Guest Russ Wallace linkedin.com/in/russwallace/Follow Mike Constantiner linkedin.com/in/mikeconstantiner/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectTake your retail business to the next level today shopify.com/honestSign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial periodSchedule your free consultation with a Sendlane expert sendlane.com/honestIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!