The NFL and Nut Free Snacks with Blake Sorensen, Founder and CEO of Blake's Seed Based
Stairway to CEO
· with Blake Sorensen
· January 31, 2023
· 42 min
Summary
This episode with Blake Sorensen, founder of Blake's Seed Based, offers a masterclass in pivoting and resilience for CPG entrepreneurs. Learn how to transform setbacks into launchpads, strategically rebrand for broader appeal, and innovate your product line to unlock significant growth and even save your company.
Key takeaways
Utilize crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter for early validation and funding, strategically dedicating significant time (e.g., three months) to campaign development for optimal results.
Be prepared to reformulate products and rebrand your company based on market feedback and growth opportunities, broadening your appeal while retaining core values.
Introduce new product lines (e.g., 'crispy treats') that can become game-changers, addressing market needs and potentially saving the business during challenging times.
Leverage personal experiences and perceived 'setbacks' (like an NFL rejection) as powerful motivators and unique selling propositions for your brand story.
Focus on allergen-friendly niches within the food industry, but consider branding that emphasizes the positive (seed-based) rather than just the absence of allergens (nut-free) to attract a wider audience.
Today, Lee is joined by Blake Sorensen, the Founder and CEO of Blake's Seed Based. Blake talked about what it was like growing up in Minneapolis, how we got rejected from the NFL, why he originally launched his company as Blake’s Nut Free, and the three-month process he took to launch a successful Kickstarter campaign. He shares how he reformulated and rebranded the business, how launching a crispy treat saved the company, and so much more!
Frequently asked about this episode
What does this episode say about brand strategy & innovation?
Utilize crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter for early validation and funding, strategically dedicating significant time (e.g., three months) to campaign development for optimal results.
What does this episode say about entrepreneurship & startup journey?
Be prepared to reformulate products and rebrand your company based on market feedback and growth opportunities, broadening your appeal while retaining core values.
What does this episode say about food industry & cpg?
Introduce new product lines (e.g., 'crispy treats') that can become game-changers, addressing market needs and potentially saving the business during challenging times.
What does this episode say about resilience & adaptation?
Leverage personal experiences and perceived 'setbacks' (like an NFL rejection) as powerful motivators and unique selling propositions for your brand story.
What does this episode say about brand strategy & innovation?
Focus on allergen-friendly niches within the food industry, but consider branding that emphasizes the positive (seed-based) rather than just the absence of allergens (nut-free) to attract a wider audience.
