Customer Growth Sessions

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern speaks with Stefanie “Steffi” Schmidt, founder of Fig for Kids, about her journey from corporate lawyer to e-commerce entrepreneur. Steffi shares how her mother’s cancer diagnosis led her family to rethink everyday products and ultimately inspired her to launch Fig for Kids, a children’s clothing brand focused on safer, thoughtfully made apparel. She also offers practical legal advice for founders, including tips on trademarks, contracts, and protecting your brand in the early stages of building a business. Want to know more about Fig for Kids? To learn more about Fig for Kids and follow the brand’s latest updates, visit the official Fig for Kids website and follow the brand on Instagram. Connect with Steffi on LinkedIn. Resources Steffi recommends for additional legal guidance: Search Y Combinator for a wide range of free templates. Visit the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Learn more about TaxCloud.   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

What if landing features in top-tier publications didn’t require a pricey PR agency? Pat Ahern reveals a smarter, more scalable approach to digital PR using expert commentary. Instead of chasing relationships, brands can earn consistent media coverage by identifying the citation sources that LLMs regularly pull from, such as industry publications and third-party review sites. By getting cited in these reputable outlets, you influence both LLM recommendations and traditional search engine rankings. Pat also shares realistic expectations around using tools like SparkToro to identify where your target demographic is most active, allowing you to prioritize the right communities—like Reddit or LinkedIn—for maximum impact. Resources Mentioned Read the Original Article: AEO: Doing SEO Better Deep Dive on Positioning: Positioning in the AI Era Audience Research Tool: SparkToro Connect with Pat Ahern LinkedIn: pahern Instagram: @pahern1 Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern sits down with James Kirkby from Kirkby Consulting to discuss the shift from Google and Amazon searches to conversational queries in LLMs like ChatGPT and Gemini. James explains why establishing authority in these models now acts as a critical hedge against changing consumer behavior.   James breaks down the essential "levers" for LLM optimization, including the use of structured data (schema markup) to make sites machine-readable and the importance of third-party reviews for building AI trust. He also explains why long-form informational content is necessary to capture detailed follow-up questions from AI.   Want to dive deeper? Check out Kirkby Consulting to explore their work or run a complimentary AI visibility audit on your site. You can also connect with James Kirkby on LinkedIn for daily insights on the future of Shopify and AI search. Use their recommended tool, validator.schema.org, Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

He built an $8.5M company in two years—then lost everything. Now he’s rebuilding from zero, on his own terms. In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern sits down with Jeremy Petersen from Identity Pet Nutrition to discuss what it really takes to rebuild a company after failure—and why he’s choosing to do it without investors, big salaries, or shortcuts. Jeremy shares the story behind his first company, Wild Calling, which scaled rapidly before financial struggles and internal decisions led to his departure and the company’s bankruptcy. He walks through the lessons learned from that experience and how they directly shaped the foundation of Identity Pet Nutrition. Throughout the conversation, Jeremy breaks down his contrarian approach to building a modern CPG brand—from hiring for grit over experience, to using digital marketing instead of a traditional sales force, to maintaining strict cost control in an inventory-heavy business. He also offers a candid perspective on private equity, explaining why many founders regret selling and how independent operators can compete without giving up ownership.   Want to dive deeper? Check out Identity Pet Nutrition and explore their products and mission. You can also connect with Jeremy on LinkedIn or read more of his thoughts on Substack.   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.    

We welcome back Mason Duling for his second appearance to discuss the continued journey of building Almost Manic, a mental health-focused apparel brand rooted in storytelling and purpose. Mason shares insights from producing the *Beyond the Blur* docu-series, highlighting the connection between endurance racing and mental resilience. He also touches on the realities of content creation, the value of strong creative partnerships, and how strategic execution can turn a vision into meaningful brand impact. Whether you're building a brand or creating content, this episode offers practical takeaways on using storytelling to connect and grow.   Resources & Links: Almost Manic Website: https://almostmanic.com/ Beyond the Blur – Season One: https://almostmanic.com/pages/beyond-the-blur-season-one Optimal Focus Productions: https://optimalfocusproductions.com/ Apollo.io: https://apollo.io Fractured Atlas: https://www.fracturedatlas.org Watch Mason’s First Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H38F4qST2kU Connect with Almost Manic: Instagram TikTok Facebook   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

What if landing features in top-tier publications didn’t require a pricey PR agency?  Pat Ahern reveals a smarter, more scalable approach to digital PR using expert commentary. Instead of chasing relationships or relying on unpredictable traditional PR methods, brands can earn consistent media coverage by responding directly to journalists' requests. We explore how platforms like HARO, MentionMatch, and Qwoted unlock opportunities to get cited in major outlets like Forbes.   Pat also shares realistic expectations around success rates, time investment, and how even small wins can compound into powerful SEO growth over time. https://intergrowth.com/expert-commentary-pr/ https://intergrowth.com/seo/haro/   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern sits down with Krisztián Király from OptiMonk to discuss how e-commerce brands can unlock more value from existing traffic through smarter conversion rate optimization.   Krisztián breaks down what CRO really means beyond surface-level tactics, emphasizing the importance of both quantitative and qualitative data analysis. He shares practical strategies for using tools like Google Analytics and Hotjar to identify funnel leaks, alongside techniques like customer feedback surveys and session recordings to uncover why users don’t convert.   Throughout the conversation, Krisztián highlights the importance of bridging the "physical gap" in online shopping through better visuals and AI chatbots, while diving into A/B testing best practices and the power of AI-driven personalization to boost revenue.   Exclusive Offer for Listeners: Use the coupon code customergrowthsessions at checkout to receive 20% off any OptiMonk subscription plan. This is a great opportunity for growing brands to implement AI-powered personalization and smart pop-ups at a discounted rate.   Want to know more about OptiMonk? Visit the official website and explore their AI-powered CRO tools, or connect with Krisztián on LinkedIn.   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern sits down with Annemarie von Firley, founder and CEO of Adventuretown Toy Emporium, to discuss her innovative approach to building a thriving educational toy business. Annemarie shares how she developed a unique internship system that allows her to effectively find, vet, and manage interns while creating meaningful real-world learning experiences for students. She also dives into her sourcing strategies and management techniques that have supported the growth of her business. Throughout the conversation, Annemarie highlights the importance of balancing operational efficiency with mentorship and how empowering young talent can contribute to both company success and personal development. Visit the official website of Adventuretown Toy Emporium to learn more: Want to know more about Adventuretown Toy Emporium? Visit the official website and follow the brand on Instagram and YouTube Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern sits down with Benjamin du Haÿs from Baumier to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and how he built a company around the principles of self-management. Benjamin shares the story behind Baumier, a brand focused on thoughtfully designed bikes and a values-driven team culture. He explains the concept of a teal organization and how self-management empowers individuals to take ownership and accountability within a company. Throughout the conversation, Benjamin also reflects on the challenges of navigating team dynamics without traditional hierarchies and contrasts the venture capital path with bootstrapping, highlighting the importance of balancing financial growth with the well-being of the team. This is the resource Benjamin mentioned for learning more about teal organizations and self-management: https://www.reinventingorganizations.com/ Want to know more about Baumier? To learn more about Baumier and follow the brand’s latest updates, visit the official Baumier website and follow the brand on Instagram. Connect with Benjamin on LinkedIn. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to https://intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, we sit down with Jonathan Spyralatos — better known as Jon the Freelancer — to unpack what it really takes to scale successfully with Meta ads. Jonathan breaks down the most common growth plateaus businesses face when running paid social campaigns and explains why increasing Average Order Value (AOV) is often the key lever for unlocking sustainable scale. He shares practical insights on overcoming creative fatigue, structuring ad accounts for performance, and adapting your marketing strategy to align with how Meta’s platform actually works. From breaking through scaling ceilings to building effective testing frameworks and avoiding costly management mistakes, this episode delivers tactical, actionable advice for brands looking to grow profitably without burning budget. Resources & Links Foreplay  https://www.foreplay.co/ Related episode: How Alberto Benhamu Used Amazon to Expand Shoozas Internationally Connect with Jonathan: Check out Jon’s website to learn more about his work and services. Follow him on Instagram for insights on scaling Meta ads and creative strategy.   Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern sits down with Tricia Salcido, CEO of Softstar Shoes, to explore the company’s remarkable journey — and its recent transition to 100% employee ownership. Tricia shares her personal background and the story behind Softstar Shoes, a values-driven footwear company known for its craftsmanship and community roots. She walks through the strategic and emotional considerations behind the company’s move to an employee-owned trust (EOT), explaining how the structure works and why it aligned so deeply with the founders’ long-term vision. This is the organization that Tricia mentioned that can help with setting up an employee-owned trust. https://project-equity.org/ Want to know more about Softstar Shoes? Visit their website here: 👉 Softstar Shoes Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode, Pat Ahern sits down with Luciano Hernandez, owner and co-founder of Spirit Fire. Luciano shares his entrepreneurial journey, reflecting on a recent injury and recovery that tested both his resilience and mindset. He discusses the founding of Spirit Fire, key lessons learned in building the brand, and the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship. The conversation explores effective marketing strategies, the power of authentic relationships, and the importance of strong networking for long-term success. Luciano also highlights the mindset required to overcome setbacks, emphasizing the importance of building a supportive community and finding small daily wins to maintain motivation and momentum. To learn more about Luciano Hernandez and his work at Spirit Fire, visit the official Spirit Fire website, connect with Luciano on LinkedIn, and follow Spirit Fire on Instagram. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode, Mason Duling, Managing Director of Almost Manic and co-founder of TruColour Products, shares his journey building and scaling consumer brands. He breaks down big-box retail, EDI and ERP systems, marketing strategies that drive sell-through, and his latest venture, Almost Manic—a mental health–focused performance wear brand. To learn more about Mason Duling and his work at Almost Manic, visit the official Almost Manic website and follow the brand on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern speaks with Aya Shimura, founder of A.Shimus, a women’s workwear brand specializing in petite designs made in Japan. Aya shares her journey of building the brand, the value of Japanese craftsmanship, and the process of finding the right manufacturing partners. She also breaks down key considerations for emerging businesses, including minimum order quantities, production lead times, and effective communication with manufacturers. Additionally, Aya discusses inventory management and the challenges of shipping and tariffs in the fashion industry. To learn more, visit the official A.Shimus website and follow the brand on Instagram. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern talks with Amber Caro, founder of Marketbite, about launching successful e-commerce sites. Amber shares when Shopify is the right choice, when to consider alternatives, and how early-stage brands can approach DIY builds. They also cover CRO, user experience, and when hiring an agency makes sense, plus how Marketbite supports growing brands with affordable, high-quality solutions. Visit Marketbite to learn more. Submit your business here to be featured in Amber’s weekly CPG Wins on LinkedIn   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, we talk with Josh Nowak, co-founder of Breaking Free Industries, about his journey from incarceration to entrepreneurship. Josh shares how his experiences shaped his values, his belief in second chances, and his mission to support justice-impacted individuals. The conversation explores work–life balance, asking for help, accessing free business resources, practical sales strategies, and how to raise prices while maintaining trust and integrity.   Visit Breaking Free Industries to learn more. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode, we sit down with Josh Parks, founder of GhostFit Apparel, to explore the brand’s evolution from a direct-to-consumer (B2C) startup into a thriving B2B apparel business. Josh breaks down the realities of sales—how to handle rejection, push through setbacks, and stay consistent when prospects say no. He also shares practical strategies for winning conversations at trade shows, leveraging LinkedIn outreach, and navigating common sales objections. For new and aspiring entrepreneurs, Josh offers grounded advice on building with intentionality, focus, and long-term vision.   🔧 Tools mentioned: PhantomBuster for outreach automation 👉 Check out GhostFit Apparel 📸 Follow them on Instagram 💼 Connect with Josh on LinkedIn to learn more.   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

WE’RE BACK. Season 3 starts now. 🚀 Pat Ahern kicks things off with Emmy Award winning TV host and Getting On Brand founder Tracy Stumpf. They dive into personal branding in a video first world covering how to show up confidently on camera and why authenticity is your ultimate advantage. Want more? Visit Getting On Brand and follow or connect with Tracy on Instagram.   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern discusses two key SEO strategies for e-commerce businesses to boost revenue, especially during the post-holiday slump. He emphasizes the importance of creating collections pages to enhance search engine visibility and user experience, and the benefits of setting up Google Merchant Center to tap into additional revenue streams. Pat shares practical advice and real-world examples to illustrate how these strategies can lead to significant revenue increases. Pat also recommends the Google & YouTube app for Shopify, which makes integrating Google Merchant Center with your store straightforward. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, we delve into the importance of fixing broken backlinks to enhance your SEO efforts. Pat shares insights on how links act as the digital currency and the critical role they play in the AI-integrated customer journey. Learn a step-by-step method using the tool Ahrefs to identify broken backlinks and effectively redirect them. This quick tip aims to help you recover lost link equity and boost your website's profitability as we approach 2026.  Learn a step-by-step method using the tool Ahrefs to identify broken backlinks and effectively redirect them. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Brianna Raich, founder of Banda Bags, discusses building a socially conscious, slow-fashion business that empowers women artisans in Indonesia.   She shares her compelling founding story, which began after a quarter-life crisis, and the unique experience of starting a business in a remote, rural area outside the U.S.. Brianna highlights the powerful difference between the ethical slow fashion model and the exploitative fast fashion industry, noting its impact on workers and the environment. The conversation concludes with how the Indonesian emphasis on work-life balance taught her a beautiful lesson in slowing down and working ethically.   Want to dive deeper? Head over to www.bandabags.com to learn more. And follow Banda Bags on Instagram.   Learn more about the risks of fast fashion and poor working conditions: The Rana Plaza collapse in 2013 is a tragic example of a garment factory disaster: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Plaza_collapse   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Sean Agatep, COO and co-founder of Vincero, discusses the often-overlooked aspects of operations in e-commerce. He emphasizes the importance of operations for scaling brands, particularly in the transition from start-up to established business. Sean shares insights on the role of third-party logistics, the impact of discounts on brand integrity, and the necessity of systemization in operations. He also highlights key metrics for success, the flexibility of the EOS framework, and the importance of hiring for curiosity and initiative. The conversation concludes with a discussion on adapting company structures for growth and building trust among a global workforce.   Want to dive deeper? Head over to VINCERO and Tidal to learn more. Follow Sean’s latest insights and updates on X and LinkedIn   Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this Customer Growth Sessions episode, Red Rooster Golf CEO Kerry Moher reveals that their $75K Kickstarter win came from preparation, not platform luck. After beta testing and growing an 8,000-person email list (which drove 90% of backers), the team ran a 7–8-email nurture sequence built on authentic storytelling. They hit their $25K goal in the first 24 hours, sparked major PR (Forbes, TSN), and boosted revenue with a popular add-on, the glove compartment, purchased by 45% of supporters. Expert guidance from campaign manager Vilius Stanislovaitis was key. Visit Red Rooster Golf's official website to learn more about its high-quality gloves and accessories. Resources mentioned: Your First Kickstarter Campaign (book) Damon Didier Customer Growth Session Episode 9 on setting up your email domain for success. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

Join us as we chat with Jeff Greenslade, Founder and CEO of Apex Sports, an at-home sports training equipment brand. Jeff shares the story behind Apex Sports, the challenges of building the company from the ground up, and how Apex carved out a niche in the competitive Amazon marketplace. Learn about their approach to product development, the importance of customer experience, and the strategies they use to successfully launch and scale new products. Get a special discount on Apex Sports products! Use code Apex 20 at checkout at apexsports.co. Learn more about Apex Sports on their official website and join the community on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

Maggie Outridge and Tim Rogers, co-founders of ST ARGO, share how they turned a side hustle into a thriving Australian pet accessories brand. They open up about the realities of managing rapid growth, from cash flow challenges to financing options, and offer practical advice on reinvesting in your business. Maggie and Tim also discuss how to navigate retailer relationships, set fair payment terms, and maintain other income sources while scaling an eCommerce brand. Resources mentioned: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight Learn more about St. Argo on their official website and join the community on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms. Listen now and discover how Maggie and Tim built ST ARGO into a premium pet accessories brand by balancing ambition with smart financial strategy. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

Phil Portman, founder and CEO of Textdrip, shares actionable insights on using SMS marketing to boost engagement and sales. He covers how to build effective campaigns, stay compliant, and integrate SMS into your omni-channel strategy, while also reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey and lessons in growth and resilience. Resources mentioned: Phil’s book – The Three Keys to Success Atomic Habits by James Clear Positive Intent AI Landline Remover Listen now and discover how Textdrip is helping businesses connect, convert, and grow. Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

Join us as we chat with Kelly Donohue, Marketing Director at Viv for your V, a sustainable period care brand. Kelly discusses her journey with Viv, the importance of branding and design, creating a trustworthy product, and engaging with customers. Learn about their innovative product development process, marketing strategies, and the role of social media in building a relatable and authentic brand. Learn more about Viv for your V official website and join the community on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook. Revisit our chat with Greg Rollet, Head of Brand Growth at Gromett, for more insights on brand strategy and audience engagement: Listen on Spotify Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat interviews Alex Morel and Ezra Smyser, co-founders of Andiem, a company focused on creating sports gear to prevent injuries, specifically ankle sprains in basketball. They discuss their journey from college athletes to entrepreneurs, overcoming challenges, early sales strategies, the importance of validation, and building partnerships with influencers and professional athletes. Curious about Andiem? Check out their website and give them a follow on Instagram! Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, host Pat welcomes Paula Wise, the founder of Sampleit, a curated box of healthy snacks for kids designed as an interactive taste test game. Paula talks about the inspiration behind Sampleit, the challenges she faced, and the steps she took in launching her business. She shares valuable insights on gathering customer feedback, the importance of launching even without perfection, and the role of community and inner circles in promoting her business. Paula also discusses her experiences with different marketing strategies and tools, concluding with practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Discover how Sampleit is reimagining healthy snacking—explore their full offerings on Sampleit and follow @sampleitbox on Instagram.  Tools mentioned in this episode: 99designs—used to create a very inexpensive logo Canva—used to create the scorecard and other materials Google Forms—used for collecting information and creating surveys Squarespace—used to build the initial website and create a page with snack links Venmo—used for payment processing in the early stages Typeform—used to create and send out surveys for feedback Pirate Ship—used for shipping management Subbly is used as a website platform specifically for subscription boxes Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern interviews Mira Nair, CEO and owner of AZARIA. Mira shares the story of how AZARIA evolved from a chic diaper bag brand into a luxury, vegan leather bag company. She breaks down the acquisition process, including her strategic use of the Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS) program and how she used Quiet Light to find and purchase the business. Mira also dives into the realities of running a product-based company—from navigating financial due diligence to overcoming operational challenges—and opens up about how she balances entrepreneurship with family life. Curious about the ROBS program Mira used to acquire AZARIA? Learn more about how it works through the IRS ROBS Compliance Project. Discover how Mira is building a purpose-driven brand—explore AZARIA's full collection at azaria.com, check out Quiet Light, the platform Mira used to acquire the business, and follow AZARIA on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern interviews Tom DeMartino, Head of Growth at JustFoodForDogs. Tom shares the company’s origin story, which is rooted in transparency and a commitment to providing human-grade dog food. He breaks down how shifting cultural attitudes toward pet ownership have shaped their marketing strategies, the importance of educating consumers on the drawbacks of traditional kibble, and how their team uses user-generated content to fuel successful paid social campaigns. Tom also discusses how JustFoodForDogs finds and engages with their top customers to gather valuable feedback that drives growth. Discover how JustFoodForDogs is redefining pet nutrition—connect with Tom on LinkedIn, check out Gassed the performance media agency Tom recommends and explore the Facebook Ads Library for ad inspiration from other brands. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.    

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern interviews Ronak Trivedi, CEO and co-founder of Pietra. Ronak shares how Pietra helps small e-commerce businesses by using AI to streamline operations, reduce costs, and make launching a business easier. He also addresses common challenges entrepreneurs face, including balancing a side hustle with a full-time job, competing with established brands, and overcoming the fears of starting something new. Discover how Pietra is empowering entrepreneurs—visit their website and follow them on Instagram TikTok and LinkedIn for the latest updates. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat delves into the essential strategies for effective business positioning in the AI era. Pat highlights the importance of clearly defining what makes your business unique to excel in customer acquisition when customers rely heavily on Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT for recommendations. Key takeaways include crafting a distinct business pitch, maintaining internal alignment, communicating positioning across online channels, and optimizing for search engines and LLMs.  Read Pat’s full article on positioning here: https://intergrowth.com/positioning/ Learn more about Discoverability, Crawlability, and Indexability: https://intergrowth.com/seo/indexability-crawlability/ Get a detailed breakdown of the key technical SEO issues to focus on first: https://intergrowth.com/seo/pareto-principle/#3 Pat's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pahern/ Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat is joined by Zechariah Thomas, founder and CEO of Swift Hockey. Zechariah shares his journey from being a professional hockey player to founding Swift Hockey and discusses their unique approach to social media marketing. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and creativity in content creation, which has helped Swift Hockey dominate the market despite a limited budget. Zechariah also recounts his experience on Dragon's Den and provides practical advice for e-commerce brands looking to grow their social media presence. Learn more about Swift Hockey and don’t forget to follow them on Instagram for the latest updates. Learn more about  Swift Hockey and don’t forget to follow them on  Instagram for the latest updates. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat Ahern interviews Scott Bailey, CEO and co-founder of Path Projects. Scott discusses his journey in the trail running apparel industry, his previous ventures, and key lessons learned about business planning, partnership, and successful exits. He emphasizes the importance of having complementary skill sets among partners, staying focused on successful products, and strategically planning for long-term growth. Discover high-performance gear from PATH Projects—visit their website, and follow them on YouTube and Instagram for the latest updates. Pat mentioned this episode as a similar listen: “Leather and Leadership” with Dave Munson. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode, Pat interviews LeiLani Kopp, founder and formulator of Sweet LeiLani Cosmetics—a clean, plant-based, vegan, and cruelty-free beauty brand. LeiLani shares her journey from working in film and TV to starting her own cosmetics company, inspired by her pro bono work with cancer, burn, and trauma patients. She discusses the challenges of pivoting her business from retail to e-commerce during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of adaptability, and her mission to redefine beauty with a holistic approach. Check out Sweet LeiLani Cosmetics on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for beauty tips, product updates, and behind-the-scenes content. Connect with LeiLani on LinkedIn to learn more about her journey and mission! Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team. Special Offer: Get 20% off your order at sweetleilani.com with code PLANTPOWERED (all caps) at checkout.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Tim Volkema, CEO of Schuil Coffee, shares how he acquired and scaled a specialty coffee business. He breaks down key growth strategies—spotting acquisition opportunities, scaling a team from 15 to 55, and auditing your own business for hidden potential. Tim also explores the impact of launching e-commerce and keeping margins strong to drive profitability.   Be sure to check out Schuil Coffee and give them a follow on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on their latest offerings and coffee insights. Resources Mentioned by Tim: Traction by Gino Wickman - A powerful guide to building a strong, scalable business using the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). Joven Coffee -Supporting the next generation of coffee farmers with ethically sourced beans from around the world. Brew Sparrows – Discover a thoughtful blend of coffee culture and intentional living through curated brews and lifestyle content.   Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

 In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Davina Kaonohi, CEO and co-founder of Element Apothec, shares the story behind her health and wellness brand. She discusses strategies for business growth, including the importance of building a strong advisory network, creating impactful internship programs, and leveraging AI to enhance efficiency. Davina offers practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses effectively. Davina shared this resource: Founder Institute FAST Agreement Template — a standardized template for early-stage startup advisor agreements. It's a great tool for clearly defining advisor roles, equity, and expectations. Davina introduces her AI venture, PopTech Studio, for brand voice and SEO. Be sure to check out  Element Apothec  and give them a follow on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to stay updated on their latest products and wellness tips. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

 In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat sits down with Kate Cervini, Founder and CEO of 100ml. Kate shares how her brand delivers skincare and wellness products designed for travelers, and walks us through her journey of building partnerships with boutique hotels. She offers valuable insights into effective cold outreach, the power of persistence, and the importance of adapting to feedback. Kate also provides practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of testing, learning, and growing through every experience.   Check out 100ml for the latest updates, and be sure to follow them on TikTok and Instagram for more content and behind-the-scenes insights. Kate uses Snov.io as a go-to tool for email discovery. For more on approachable A/B testing, check out this episode of the Paire Podcast: Listen on Spotify. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Meghan Martin, Brand Director at Funk It Wellness, discusses the company's focus on women's hormone health through food-based supplements. She shares insights on creating a strong brand strategy, visual identity, and credibility. Meghan also talks about the balance between education and engagement in their content approach and offers advice on DIY branding and when to hire experts. Get to know Funk It Wellness and connect with Meghan on LinkedIn to follow her journey. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode, Pat interviews Derek Rasmussen, Marketing Director at Outdoor Vitals. Derek dives into what most brands get wrong about marketing budgets, how to attribute revenue across multiple marketing channels, and the crucial financials you need to know to succeed in marketing. He shares Outdoor Vitals' journey from Amazon reliance, their use of Triple Whale for attribution, and their unique Live Ultralight Membership program. Visit Outdoor Vitals for their latest gear and updates. Also, make sure to follow their YouTube channel and connect with them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for more content! Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode, Pat interviews Vipul Lakhi, the founder of My Trio Rings. Vipul discusses his unique jewelry brand, previous business ventures, the importance of choosing the right partners, and balancing work with personal life. He shares insights on making strategic decisions, tackling founder burnout, and achieving business growth. Check out My Trio Rings to see their latest styles and updates.  Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat chats with Jessica Bossman and Brynn Davis Williams, co-founders of DOUBL. They dive into DOUBL’s innovative process for automating the production of custom-fit clothing, their path to launching the business, and how they bootstrapped while building advanced technology. They also discuss how they secured government grants, the critical role of accurate customer feedback, and their strategies for balancing the demands of startup life. Jessica and Brynn share insights on hiring effectively for technical roles as they scale their company. Visit DOUBL and be sure to follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to stay updated and learn more about their journey. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, we talk to Eliza Trendiak of Lavoh. Eliza shares her journey from owning a hair salon to launching Lavoh, a reusable face cloth brand. She discusses the challenges of selling her salon, the strategic shift to B2B, and the significance of in-person events for brand growth. Eliza also provides valuable insights into hiring and delegating effectively. Get inspired by Eliza’s entrepreneurial journey and learn key business lessons. Ready to explore? Visit Lavoh.com to discover their game-changing products. Don't miss out! Follow Lavoh on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for updates. Connect with Eliza on | Instagram | Facebook Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat chats with Olivia Stumpf, the Partnerships and Social Media Manager at Oliver Logan. Olivia explains the brand's focus on timeless, comfortable denim and shares insights into their effective use of user-generated content and influencer marketing. She discusses building meaningful partnerships, identifying red flags, legal considerations, and tracking the success of marketing campaigns. Visit their Oliver Logan official website to learn more about the products. Olivia recommended Refunnel as a powerful tool she actively uses, definitely worth checking out! And don’t forget to like and follow Oliver Logan on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to stay updated with her latest insights and content! Also, be sure to follow Olivia Stumpf on Instagram for even more inspiration and updates. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat sits down with Yoav Shalev, the CMO over at Tap With Us, to discuss how to nail the PR side of a product launch. Tap With Us has developed a wearable controller that allows users to input into any device using finger taps and gestures, designed for controlling audio, scrolling content, or typing into devices. Yoav shares his expertise on how Tap With Us achieved significant press coverage by strategically crafting their launch story and targeting key amplifiers in the media landscape. In addition to his role at Tap With Us, Yoav also runs PingBell — a tool designed to ensure you never miss shipping an order and more. Head over to tapwithus.com to discover their innovative products. Plus, gain more insights from Yoav directly on his official website. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat interviews Andy Fine, founder of Sartoro, an all-online custom suit brand.   Andy shares his unique entrepreneurial journey, moving from finance to e-commerce, and the pivotal decision to establish manufacturing in Vietnam. He discusses the evolution of his business from an initial proof-of-concept brand to Sartoro, emphasizing a commitment to delivering elevated quality and customer experience.   Andy also provides insights into effective marketing strategies, including focused paid acquisition channels and a contrarian view on extensive A/B testing.   Want to know more about Sartoro?    Check out their latest updates on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.   Discover their latest collections and learn more at sartoro.co   You can book a free suit consultation to meet with their team for help with decisions, sizing, or any questions.   Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat interviews Tori Wells, founder of Feline Apparel, a women's luxury athleisure brand. Tori shares her journey starting in the business in 2018, inspired by her fashion background and the need for inclusive, stylish activewear. She discusses key business strategies such as live shopping on TikTok, limited product launches, and her college pop-up tour initiative aimed at empowering young women. Want to know more about Feline Apparel? Check out their latest updates and styles on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. For more information and updates, be sure to visit their official website. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.  

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat interviews Nathan Yun, co-founder and CEO of Paire, an Australian basics clothing brand. Nathan shares how Paire uses fabric technology to create functional, comfortable, and sustainable products. He discusses the brand's early growth hacking strategies, including AB testing and unique PR approaches, that led to its success.  Helpful Tools Mentioned in This Episode: VWO A/B Testing Hacking Growth (Book) Monstercart Upsell OneClick Upsell Elevate A/B Test 👉 Visit the Paire website to learn more, and connect with Nathan and Rex on Instagram and TikTok for more updates and behind-the-scenes content! Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.

In this episode of Customer Growth Sessions, Pat interviews Ally Weiss, founder of Grip Baby, an innovative infant crawling support onesie. Ally discusses transitioning from her job at Google to entrepreneurship, covering financial challenges, the importance of IP, and customer feedback. She shares strategies for growing her Instagram following and provides a sneak peek into upcoming Grip Baby products. This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and parents. To learn more, visit Grip Baby and follow along on Instagram Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes. Interested in seeing how Intergrowth could help you grow your business? Head over to intergrowth.com/cgs to book a complimentary strategy session with our team.