Topic
Direct-to-consumer
A retail strategy where brands sell straight to shoppers and own the customer relationship.
How I Built This with Guy Raz·Money
Karissa Bodnar says an iPhone eyeliner ad took Thrive Causemetics from $150 days to $30 million in months
The founder’s version of the Thrive Causemetics breakout story is less girlboss magic than inventory anxiety, unpaid labor, and one very lucky eyeliner ad.
How I Built This with Guy Raz·Money
Lily Kanter says a rescue deal made it impossible for Serena & Lily to raise another dollar
The prettiest crib bedding company in America got dragged into the ugliest corner of startup finance.
How I Built This with Guy Raz·Money
Curt Richardson says OtterBox revenue fell after a $1.1 billion peak, but profit rose
The OtterBox founder gave the rare founder update that actually explains what happens after a breakout product becomes boring.
How I Built This with Guy Raz·Money
Kenneth Cole says wholesale won't build your brand if you don't own the customer relationship
On How I Built This, Cole gave a very department-store-era warning to modern founders: revenue through retailers can look like momentum while quietly leaving the brand in someone else's hands.