Profits on Purpose

SE01E42 Building a Sustainable Shoe Brand from Italy's Finest Materials | Fundae | Holly Garrard

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100

Holly Garrard spent nearly 25 years in media and podcasting before deciding to stop telling other brands' stories and build one of her own. The result is Fundae — a purpose-driven footwear brand built on plant-based materials, manufactured in Italy, and designed to prove that sustainable fashion and high style can coexist. In this episode, Holly gets into the financial realities of building with conviction: absorbing a 20–30% cost premium on materials, navigating unethical vendors, funding the business while supplementing income from consulting, and holding the line on values that every Italian supplier tried to talk her out of. It's an honest conversation about the cost of doing things the right way — and why she believes it's worth it.

Holly's Social Handles:
Instagram: @fundaesoles
TikTok: @fundaesoles
Facebook: @fundaesoles
Pinterest: @fundaesoles
YouTube: @hollydayfundae9611

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/
Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/
Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter

Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXI
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087
Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087

SE01E41 Mission First, Impact Later | Lucille Health | Jess Haghani

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100

What does it actually look like to build a business where the mission isn't layered on top of the product — it's the entire reason the product exists? Jess Haghani is the Founder and CEO of Lucille Health, a better-for-you nutrition brand built specifically for aging adults, a category that has received almost no meaningful innovation in decades. In this episode, Jess walks us through her journey from private equity at KKR to founding Lucille, why she chose simplicity over complexity in her business structure, and how she thinks about the real tension between mission and margin. She shares the pricing math that helped her get comfortable with a premium product, why repeat purchase rate is her north star metric right now, and the hard-won insight that you have to earn the right to make an impact through every small decision you get right. If you're building a purpose-led business and wondering whether profitability and mission are really compatible — this one is for you.

Connect with Jess:

🌐 Website: https://lucillehealth.com

📧 Email: jess@lucillehealth.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucillehealth

🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lucillehealth

👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lucille/61581040694863

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucillehealth

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E40 The Inventory Gap Why Your Books Don't Match Your Warehouse (And What To Do About It) | Fiskal | Pierre Goldie

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100

If your inventory lives in one place and your financials live somewhere else, you already know the gap in between is where bad decisions get made. In this episode, Nate sits down with Pierre Goldie, Co-Founder and CGO of Fiskal, to talk about what it actually looks like to close that gap.
Pierre breaks down when founders outgrow spreadsheets, how to evaluate and choose an inventory management system, and why the implementation partner you choose often matters more than the software itself. They also get into the real cost of getting it wrong — messy books, corrupted data, and the painful reality of not being able to close your books because your IMS and your accounting software are both broken. If you've been running your product business on gut feel and a spreadsheet, this one's for you.

Connect with Pierre: Pierre Goldie | Co-Founder & CGO, Fiskal
🌐 fiskalfinance.com
🔗 linkedin.com/in/pierregoldie 📱

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E39 From a Thousand Stores to National Scale | Byte'm Brownies | Jack Davis and Jacob Tubis

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100

Jack Davis and Jacob Tubis, co-founders of Byte'm Brownie Bites, have spent the past year doing something most emerging CPG brands avoid: going bodega to bodega, store to store, building nearly a thousand retail doors in New York City — fully bootstrapped. In this episode, they get candid about the real financial realities of scaling a physical food brand, from the cash drain of retail promotions to the supplier nightmares that cost them thousands of dollars with zero accountability. They also dig into the decision to hire fractional financial support early, why simplifying operations beats chasing "200 IQ plays," and what they'd tell their younger selves about partner communication before things go sideways. With Expo West behind them and a national launch ahead, Jack and Jacob are at an inflection point — and they're refreshingly honest about what it actually takes to get there.

Website: https://www.bytemfood.com
Company LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/byte-m-brownie-bites

Jack Davis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-davis-38ab9315a/ Jacob Tubis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-tubis-a8b847155/

Social Handles:
Instagram: @bytembrownies
TikTok: @bytembrownies
Jacob personal: @bytemjk
Jack personal: @bytemjack

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E38 Stop Flying Blind: An Accounting Expert's Guide to Financial Clarity for E-Commerce Founders | LedgerGurus | Stephen Brown

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Most e-commerce founders treat bookkeeping as a tax necessity and nothing more — until the day they realise they've built a million-dollar business with no idea whether it's actually profitable. Stephen Brown, Co-Founder and COO of LedgerGurus, has seen this story play out hundreds of times. In this episode, he and Nate dig into what good financial infrastructure actually looks like at different stages of growth, the three key metrics every e-commerce founder should be tracking, and why the cash conversion cycle is the most underrated number in your business. Stephen also shares what happened when he and his partners applied Profit First principles to their own DTC brand — including the moment they fired all their agencies and finally got profitable. If you've ever thought of accounting as a cost center, this episode will change your mind.

Connect with Stephen Brown & LedgerGurus:
🌐 Website: https://www.ledgergurus.com
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stebro
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ledgergurus
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LedgerGurus
👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LedgerGurus
🎙️ Podcast: eCommerce Finance Podcast

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E37 Scaling a Premium RTD Brand Without Full-Time Employees | The Original Southside | Meredith Mills-Merritt

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

What happens when your gut says yes and every financial data point says run? Meredith Mills-Merritt, Founder and CEO of The Original Southside, found out firsthand when she signed a six-figure Florida Panthers sponsorship just months after brick-and-mortar launch — no CFO, no full-time staff, and a friends-and-family round that had barely closed. In this episode, Meredith walks Nate through the financial tightrope of scaling a premium RTD cocktail brand at speed: how she pitched distributors before she had consumer demand data, why she ignored the advice to go slow, and what it actually costs when you keep the wrong person on payroll three months too long. She also shares her surprisingly rigorous approach to tracking ROI on brand-building spend — and the Hampton polo event that worked brilliantly one summer and completely flopped the next.

If you're a founder trying to balance mission, margin, and momentum, this one is for you.

Connect with Meredith here:
Website: https://www.drinksouthsides.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredithleahmills

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E36 The $500K Inventory Problem $5M Brands Don't Know About | W.NDeen Advisory | Walid Nasserdeen

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Walid Nasserdeen is the founder of W.NDeen Advisory and a fractional demand planning and S&OP partner for high-growth CPG brands. In this conversation, Nate and Walid dig into one of the most overlooked financial problems in the CPG space — inventory. From the hidden cost of excess stock to the revenue lost from stockouts, Walid breaks down why most founders are operating without a real forecasting system, what that's actually costing them, and how to fix it. If you've ever felt like you're constantly running out of your best sellers while sitting on dead stock you can't move, this episode is for you.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wnasserdeen
Company Website: https://www.wndeenadvisory.com

Walid Nasserdeen is the founder of W.NDeen Advisory and the
author of Mind Your Business, a bestselling book on business operations and strategy. Walid specialises in demand planning, forecasting, and inventory management for CPG brands doing $5 million and up in revenue.
With a background in finance and economics, he's previously worked with companies including Mattel, Tropical Foods, and Pelican Cases. His approach helps founders move from reactive firefighting to proactive systems — and his firm works exclusively with CPG brands.

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E35 What $600M in Growth Equity Looks For in a Consumer Brand | Prelude Growth Partners | William Quartner

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

William Quartner is a Partner at Prelude Growth Partners — one of the most active growth equity firms in consumer, with a $600M fund and exits including a $400M sale of Bachans. In this conversation, Nate and Will get into what investors at this level are actually looking for: how they screen founders, why they take a category-first approach to identifying opportunities, and what makes a brand scalable vs. a cash-burning trap. If you've ever wondered how the investment world works — or whether your brand is the kind of thing that could attract serious capital — this episode will give you a clear-eyed view from someone writing the cheques.

Connect with William:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamquartner/
Company Website: https://preludegrowth.com

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E34 A $2M Seed Round, 1,000 Retail Doors, and the BevNet Pitch That Made Him Cry | Bear Maple Farms | Brian Bethke

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Brian Bethke has done this before. He built and exited a music industry brand — Supro and Pigtronics — before pivoting into the beverage space with Bear Maple Farms, a clean soda brand now in nearly 1,000 retail stores and backed by a $2M seed round. But success on paper hasn't made the journey any easier.

In this conversation, Brian shares the unfiltered story behind Bear Maple Farms: the BevNet pitch contest he lost despite months of preparation, two complete brand repositioning pivots, the data-driven decision to walk away from Whole Foods and build a grassroots retail story first, and the tension between investor expectations and a founder's instinct to extend runway and build sustainably.
As a second-time founder, Brian also gets candid about what he wishes he'd understood earlier — and why getting financial help years sooner would have saved him five years on his first business.

Key Topics:
Two brand pivots: from sparkling ginseng elixir to clean soda — and how customer feedback drove the final positioning
Losing the BevNet pitch contest and rebuilding from scratch
Why chasing Whole Foods early can be a trap — and the independent retail strategy that got Bear Maple to 1,000 stores
The real cost of trade spend at large retail chains
Seed round strategy: raise as little as needed, extend runway, and don't get on the VC treadmill before you're ready
What a fractional CFO actually does — from a founder who knows the difference between building with and without one

Guest Bio: Brian Bethke is the founder of Bear Maple Farms, a clean soda brand featuring ginseng for focus and clarity. A second-time founder, Brian previously built and exited Supro and Pigtronics — a music industry brand sold in 2020. Bear Maple Farms launched during the pandemic after Brian relocated to the Catskill
Mountains, where tapping maple trees with his daughter sparked the idea. The brand has since grown to nearly 1,000 retail stores across the Northeast and raised a $2 million seed round.

LinkedIn:
Company Website: https://www.bearmapledrinks.com
@drinkbearmaple
Amazon discount code PROFITS25

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E33 Depth over Premature Scale | Black Leaf Vodka | Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow are the co-founders of Black Leaf Vodka, the first French organic vodka company in the United States. Their journey from a chance meeting in Cognac, France to building an award- winning spirits brand is a masterclass in resourcefulness, strategic focus, and the power of complementary
partnerships.

In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of scaling a capital-intensive business with limited resources.
Kevin and Monté share candid insights on navigating the three-tier distribution system, managing inventory with long lead times, and making tough prioritization decisions when opportunities far exceed available capital. We explore their current fundraising journey—raising a $2M seed round—and the surprising lessons they've learned about investor relations (hint: it's a numbers game that requires 500+ conversations). They reveal creative tactics like leveraging "influencer investors" with survey tools to generate warm intros and how bringing investors into their "brand world" over cocktails drives better conversations than traditional pitch decks.

Kevin brings a finance background while Monté has hands-on spirits industry experience, creating a partnership they describe as "organic" and perfectly aligned. Their philosophy of "controlled depth versus premature scale" offers valuable wisdom for any founder facing the tension between growth ambitions and resource constraints.

Conntect with Kevin and Monté:
Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klarkai/
Monté: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monteburrow/

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E32 - The Real Costs of Retail Expansion | Cali FoodStar, Inc. | Michael Salman

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Michael Salman went from managing tours for Usher and LL Cool J to the cannabis industry, and now he's disrupting the fresh salsa category in major retailers. As Co-Founder and COO of Cali FoodStar, Inc., Michael has landed his fresh salsa brand in over 200 doors in just six months, with major chains on the horizon.
In this episode, Michael pulls back the curtain on the real economics of retail expansion. He shares how produce prices can triple overnight (peeled garlic went from $42 to $120 per case in six weeks), why slotting fees can cost $40,000 before selling a single unit, and how buyer relationships can take 4-6 months to mature—or require waiting another year for the next category review.

But beyond the challenges, Michael reveals the strategic thinking that's driving his rapid growth: starting with a geographic nucleus instead of going nationwide, using sales data to dial in margins before scaling, and leveraging relationships built across music, cannabis, and CPG to open doors others can't access. Whether you're launching a CPG brand or scaling an existing one, Michael's boots-on-the-ground insights into commodity pricing volatility, production planning with perishables, and creative financing strategies will give you a realistic roadmap for retail success.

Key Topics:
Transferable skills across unregulated (cannabis) vs regulated (CPG) markets
Managing commodity pricing volatility in fresh food production
The true costs of retail: slotting fees, trade spend, and marketing dollars
Strategic geographic expansion: nucleus approach vs shotgun strategy
Building buyer relationships without being pushy
Financing options: PO financing vs invoice factoring
Production planning and demand forecasting with limited shelf life
Bootstrapping to 200 stores in 6 months

Guest: Michael Salman, Co-Founder & COO, Cali FoodStar, Inc.
Website: www.califoodstar.com

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E31 - What Investors Actually Want to See | Dawnbreaker Oats | Scott Turner and Nick Lagonia

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

After raising $300K and spending two years building a CPG brand called Misery & Mayhem, Scott Turner and Nick Lagonia made a bold decision: scrap everything and rebrand in seven weeks on a $2,500 budget. In this raw conversation, the Dawnbreaker Oats co-founders share expensive lessons about influencer marketing, the honest feedback that changed their company, and what it's really like to run a business for 2.5 years without
paying yourself.

We dive into the shift in fundraising expectations (the "golden age of CPG" is over), the unit economics of their subscription oatmeal business, and why sometimes the thing you think is your brand strength is actually holding you back. This is an unusually honest look at the unglamorous reality of building a CPG brand—from patient capital allocation to user testing that revealed a 10% to 65% preference shift.

Key Topics:
Why their original brand name (Misery & Mayhem) became a distraction instead of an advantage
The 7-week, $2,500 rebrand process that tested 50+ concepts
User testing results: from 10% to 65% brand preference
Real talk on not paying yourself for 2.5 years while raising young families
What investors actually want to see now vs. the "golden age of CPG"
D2C unit economics: $7 trials, $25-30 CAC, 50%+ retention on subscriptions
The discipline of proving small bets before scaling
Why they chose e-commerce over retail (and the cash flow reasons behind it)

Guest Bios:
Scott Turner and Nick Lagonia are the co-founders of Dawnbreaker Oats, a high-protein instant oatmeal brand.
They met in 2016 while working at Peloton and launched their first brand in February 2024. After realizing their
original positioning wasn't resonating with customers, they completed a full rebrand in seven weeks,
relaunching as Dawnbreaker Oats in September 2024. They're currently in the middle of raising their second
round of funding while building an e-commerce-first CPG business.

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E30 - Why everything lives in the founder's head - and how to fix it | AE&Co | Aveline Elfar

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Most founders think their bottleneck is marketing or sales. It's not. It's operations.

Aveline Elfar spent six years managing franchise operations before discovering that online businesses were drowning in even more operational chaos. Now, as a fractional COO specializing in health and wellness brands, she helps six and seven-figure founders reclaim 10+ hours per week through strategic automation and process optimization.

Her philosophy? "Clarity is kindness." Whether it's customer journeys, SOP databases, or team communication, unclear systems create friction, missed deadlines, and founder burnout.

In this episode, we explore:
The top 3 operational problems in 7-figure e-comm brands (and how to fix them)
Why "everything lives in the founder's head" is killing your growth
The House Analogy: Operations as piping, sales as water
Process documentation vs. process automation (and when you need each)
How to maintain SOPs without them becoming obsolete in 6 months
The "definition of done"—why your team isn't failing, they just don't know what complete looks like
A shocking example: A founder doing 6 figures per month still answering Slack messages
How to test your processes "under pressure" before rolling them out
Why building your own process database might be doing yourself a disservice
Her favorite tech tools: ClickUp, ActiveCampaign, and Zapier
Client retention rate as the ultimate operations metric
Whether you're drowning in customer service tickets, constantly pulled into the weeds, or building systems that
never get used, this conversation offers a clear path to operational clarity

Connect with Aveline Here:
Website: avelineelfar.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aveline-elfar-479aa767/
Instagram: @avelineelfar.co

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E29 - Why this founder invested $1M in his own production line | FigBrew | Andy Whitehead

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Andy Whitehead traded physics research for a technology company, sold that to Samsung, and then decided to jump into the food and beverage space with FigBrew - a coffee alternative made from roasted figs.

Unlike most early-stage CPG founders who work with co-packers, Andy has invested over $1 million into building his own production facility. He's even started his own fig farm, creating a vertically integrated operation from soil to shelf.

In this episode, we explore:
Why Andy chose to build his own production line instead of using co-packers (and when this makes sense)
The shocking sustainability statistics behind coffee (spoiler: your daily cup requires 20 trees per year)
How fig coffee uses 1/8th the water and 1/13th the carbon footprint of traditional coffee
Why "nobody pulls out their wallet for sustainability" - and what actually drives purchases
Lessons from selling his previous company to Samsung and building for acquisition from day one
How to transition from hard science thinking to the qualitative world of consumer insights
His favorite metric for measuring business health (hint: it's not what you think)

Whether you're considering in-house manufacturing, building a sustainable brand, or navigating an unconventional path into CPG, Andy's story offers a refreshing perspective on what it takes to build something lasting.

Guest Links:
FigBrew: figbrew.com
Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-whitehead-7653146

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E28 - Should You Still Be CEO? | WOO More Play | Mackie Swan

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Most founders avoid this question until it's too late: Should you still be the CEO of your own company?

Mackie Swan was brought in by the three original founders of WOO More Play—a sexual wellness brand sold in Anthropologie, Nordstrom, and Revolve—to scale a business they realized they shouldn't be running day-to-day. Three years later, she's taken the business to profitability while navigating the complex world of "vice categories."

This isn't a conversation about sexual wellness products. It's about a decision many founders will eventually face: Am I the right person to be running the company I founded?

In this episode, we explore:
The "Capacity vs. Desire" framework: How to know if you've outgrown the CEO role
What the transition process actually looks like when bringing in an outside CEO
How to structure compensation and equity to align incentives
Why procrastination might be telling you you're in the wrong role
How to hire people who will actually tell you when you're wrong
What "vice categories" means and the hidden operational challenges (PayPal froze $50K+ of their funds overnight)
Why Mackie tracks EBITDA daily instead of typical vanity metrics
The difference between being a founder and being a CEO—and why they're not the same thing

Whether you're a founder questioning your role, considering bringing in outside leadership, or an operator thinking about joining an early-stage brand, this conversation offers rare insight into a transition most founders don't talk about until it's too late.

Guest Links:
WOO More Play: woomoreplay.com
Instagram: @woomoreplay
LinkedIn: Mackie Swan

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E27 - The Quantitative Approach to Brand Positioning | Tapasya Bali

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood sits down with Tapasya Bali, a rare entrepreneur who speaks both Wall Street and Main Street. After 16 years navigating high-stakes finance at Credit Suisse, Tapasya made a bold pivot at the peak of her career to co-found Yogasmoga, an athletic apparel brand that scaled to a $74 million valuation and earned her recognition as one of Goldman Sachs's 100 most intriguing entrepreneurs.

Today, she's building 100 Cal Snacks, a functional food brand tackling the healthy snacking space with laser-focused positioning around the gut-brain connection. Through her consulting business, My Consumer Brand, she helps founders navigate the intersection where brand storytelling meets financial sustainability.

This conversation dives deep into the quantitative approach to brand positioning, the critical difference between market trends and patterns, and why most founders get the timing wrong on both branding investments and financial planning. Tapasya shares hard-won lessons about building teams, managing investor expectations, and why your spreadsheet projections matter more for the logic they reveal than the numbers themselves.

If you've ever wondered how to find white space in crowded markets, when to implement give-back initiatives without destroying margins, or how to tell your company's story in financial terms that investors actually want to hear, this conversation delivers.

KEY INSIGHTS:

Brand positioning is fundamentally quantitative. Before the storytelling comes deep market research, competitor mapping, and data validation to find genuine white space in crowded categories.

Distinguish between trends and patterns. Trends die quickly, but patterns reveal lasting consumer pain points. Gut health was trending, but the gut-brain connection represents a pattern with staying power.

Your financial projections are planning tools, not predictions. The value isn't in hitting exact numbers but in forcing yourself to articulate your go-to-market strategy and the logic behind your growth assumptions.

Invest in brand positioning before brand design. Most founders skip the strategic foundation and jump straight to logos and color schemes, then struggle with diluted messaging that doesn't differentiate.

Marketing Efficiency Ratio matters more as you scale. While margins are table stakes, MER determines your ability to deploy capital effectively and directly impacts exit valuations and EBITDA multiples.

Give-back initiatives can destroy value if poorly timed. Unless structured as self-sustaining models, charitable components eat into bottom lines and compress valuations that investors care about.

The transition from finance to entrepreneurship is humbling. Even working 12-hour days on a trading desk doesn't prepare you for the sheer breadth of skills and relentless execution required to build a consumer brand.

Patience is the hardest skill for high-velocity professionals. Consumer businesses move slower than finance. Retail timelines, fundraising cycles, and shelf placement all require recalibrating expectations from Wall Street pace.

CONNECT WITH TAPASYA:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tapasya-bali/
100 Cal Snacks: 100calsnacks.com
My Consumer Brand: myconsumerbrand.com

If this episode helped you think differently about brand positioning or financial strategy, share it with a founder who needs to hear it.

I hope you enjoyed this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E26 - When Your Biggest Asset (Inventory) Is Also Your Biggest Risk | Retailytics | Bellamy Grindl

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits On Purpose, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Bellamy Grindl, founder of Retailytics, about the intricacies of inventory management and supply chain operations for e-commerce and CPG founders. They discuss the evolution of operations as businesses grow, common inventory challenges, the importance of breaking down silos between departments, and strategies for effective planning and communication. Bellamy shares insights on navigating post-holiday sales recovery, the impact of COVID on supply chain strategies, and the significance of financial literacy and technology in managing inventory effectively. The conversation concludes with key performance indicators and resources for further learning.

Connect with Bellamy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellamygrindl/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retail_ytics/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@retail_ytics
Official Website (URL): www.retailytics.co

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

#profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinking
Welcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.
Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.
If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

SE01E25 - How Purpose-Driven Brands Win Without Competing On Price | Deus Marca | Katheryn Bwye

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Kat Bwye, founder and CEO of Deus Marca, about the importance of branding for purpose-driven businesses. Kat shares her journey from art school to building a brand consultancy, emphasizing that branding is more than just visual design; it's a strategic advantage. They discuss the brand operating system, the ROI of investing in branding, and how to integrate purpose into a brand's narrative. Kat also addresses the challenges of running a purpose-driven business and the impact of AI on branding.

Connect with Katheryn here:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherynbwye/

Official Website (URL): https://www.deusmarca.com

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeusMarca.Studio/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deusmarca.studio/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeusMarcaStudio

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@deusmarca.studio

SE01E24 - Why Predictable Revenue Beats Funding in E-Commerce | Ethnik Living | Mehmet Can Ilker

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Mehmet Can Ilker, co-founder of Ethnik Living, a successful home decor brand that started with minimal investment during the pandemic. Mehmet shares his journey from being an engineering student in Turkey to building a thriving e-commerce business focused on the US market. He discusses the challenges of bootstrapping, managing cash flow, navigating tariffs, and the importance of supplier relationships. The conversation also delves into the unique strategies Mehmet employed, such as creating a custom ERP system and maintaining a disciplined approach to finances. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of predictable revenue, effective customer acquisition, and the value of weekly finance meetings in driving business success.

Connect with Mehmet on LinekdIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehmet-can-ilker-545978104/

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E23 - The three things I knew (and 7 that I didn't) building a multi-million dollar tree business | Simply Trees | Teddy Oitzman

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Teddy Oitzman, founder of Simply Trees, who shares his journey from having no experience in the plant industry to generating millions in revenue. Teddy discusses the importance of sales, understanding financials, and the challenges of running a seasonal business. He emphasizes the need for effective cash flow management and the lessons learned from overcoming significant setbacks, including a major inventory loss. The conversation highlights the hustle required in entrepreneurship and the eventual transition to hiring help to scale the business.

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E22 - Overcoming adversity and claiming your second chance in the food business | Sunday Supper, Prospera Ventures | Spencer Oberg

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this powerful episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood sits down with Spencer Oberg, a true testament to overcoming adversity and the power of second chances. Spencer shares his remarkable, candid journey from incarceration to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the highly competitive plant-based food industry.

Spencer walks us through his transformative years in prison - a period of intense personal growth where he dedicated himself to education and ignited his entrepreneurial spirit after connecting with influential figures. He then dives into the challenging yet rewarding experience of being on the founding team for Good Planet Foods, detailing the intricate process of scaling businesses to a $22 million revenue and the necessary business lessons learned from navigating complex venture capital dynamics.
From the mindset of a successful founder to the complexities of a CEO, Spencer discusses the future of the food industry through his new ventures, Prospera Ventures (acquiring and optimizing profitable food businesses) and Sunday Supper (a new branding and manufacturing project). This episode is a masterclass in leadership, strategic shifts, and the crucial distinction between startup culture and professionalization.

🔥 Key Takeaways & Business Lessons:
Overcoming Adversity: Spencer Oberg's path is proof that it’s about second chances and turning your life around after serving time.
The Power of Education: Education was a key focus during Spencer's time in prison, shaping his future.
Scaling Rapidly: Learn how Good Planet Foods grew quickly, reaching $22 million in revenue, and the challenges of scaling businesses.
Venture Capital Dynamics: Navigating the complexities of venture capital was a significant learning experience for Spencer.
Founder vs. CEO: Understanding the differences between a founder and a CEO is crucial for sustainable business leadership and success.
Strategic Shifts: The importance of balancing startup culture with professionalization in business growth.

New Ventures: Insights into Prospera Ventures (acquiring food businesses) and Sunday Supper (a new approach to plant-based food).

Connect with Spencer here:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spenceroberg001/
Email: spencer@sundaysupper.com
Prospera Ventures Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prosperaventures/
Prospera Ventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weprospera
Prospera Ventures YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProsperaVentures
Prospera Ventures LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prospera-ventures
Sunday Supper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vegansundaysupper
Sunday Supper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sundaysupperfoods?igsh=MWhjemtlcnA1a3J2bg==
Sunday Supper LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunday-supper/

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E21 - Founder to Nonprofit CEO: What Happens After You ‘Make It’ | The Farmlink Project | Eliza Blank

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Eliza Blank, founder of The Sill and CEO of The Farmlink Project, who shares her journey from launching a successful D2C houseplant brand to transitioning into nonprofit leadership with Farmlink. Eliza discusses the importance of understanding customer behavior, the challenges of retail expansion, and the impact of COVID-19 on business operations. She also reflects on her experiences with crowdfunding, the significance of unit economics, and the unique challenges faced by female founders. Eliza's insights provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of building and scaling a business.

Connect with Eliza here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizablank/
Farmlink: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=/farmlinkproject/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/farmlinkproject
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-farmlink-project/mycompany/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmlinkproject
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefarmlinkproject

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E20 - Why Selling the Experience Matters More Than Selling the Dress | Les Aimants | Manon Martin

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Manon Martin, founder and CEO of Les Hémons, a bridal lab in New York that is revolutionizing the wedding dress shopping experience. Manon shares her background in the fashion industry, the challenges brides face in traditional shopping, and how her company addresses these issues through innovative technology and a focus on customer experience. The conversation explores the transition from B2B to direct-to-consumer models, customer acquisition strategies, fundraising experiences, and the importance of financial management in a startup.

Connect with Manon here:
Email: manon@les-aimants.com
Official Website (URL): les-aimants.com

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E19 - Navigating Profitability in E-Commerce | Vincero Collective| Sean Agatep

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits On Purpose, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Sean Agatep, co-founder and COO of Vincero Collective, about the journey of scaling an e-commerce business from its Kickstarter roots to an eight-figure D2C brand. They discuss the challenges of navigating profitability, the importance of adapting to market changes, and the strategic decisions made to focus on sustainable growth. Sean shares insights on the significance of customer satisfaction, the evolution of their organizational structure, and the birth of Tidal, a recruitment firm for e-commerce teams. The conversation emphasizes the need for founders to reflect on their goals, the importance of financial metrics, and the value of paying oneself appropriately in the entrepreneurial journey.

Connect with Sean:
LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sagatep
X: @SeanAgatep
Official Website (URL): www.vincerocollective.com
Email: sean@vincerocollective.com

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E18 - The Power of Authentic Marketing in Beauty | Bri Beauty | Brittany Ogletree

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Brittany Ogletree, founder of Bri Beauty, a clean beauty brand focused on solutions for acne-prone skin. Brittany shares her unique journey from studying acting to launching her own beauty line, emphasizing the importance of authentic marketing, community engagement, and feedback-driven product development. The conversation covers various topics, including funding strategies, navigating investor relationships, understanding unit economics, and the significance of technology in business operations. Brittany also discusses her lessons learned as a founder and her vision for future growth.

Connect with Brittany:
Official Website (URL): https://bribeauty.co/
Email: brittany@bribeauty.co

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E17 - Removing yourself as a bottleneck to growth | Itivate | Jessica Walther

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Jessica Walther, co-founder and CEO of Itivate. They discuss Jessica's journey from corporate supply chain to founding a company that helps small businesses scale effectively. The conversation covers identifying founder pain points, the importance of organizational structure, and the balance between scalability and fundability. Jessica shares insights on different founder archetypes, key questions for diagnosing business challenges, and the evolution of supply chains in CPG businesses. The episode emphasizes the significance of culture and metrics in driving business success.

Connect with Jessica:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwalther1105
Email: hello@itivate.com
Official Website (URL): www.itivate.com

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E16 - The Power of Building in Public | Beck's Broth | Beckie Prime

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Beckie Prime, founder of Beck's Broth, a brand focused on functional beverages. They discuss Beck's journey from holistic nutritionist to entrepreneur, the challenges of scaling a business, and the importance of sustainability. Becky shares insights on funding, the evolution of her product, and the lessons learned from her experience on Dragon's Den. The conversation highlights the balance between quality and cost, the significance of building in public, and the dynamics of co-founder relationships.

Beckie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckie-prime-972a02b7/
Official Website (URL): www.becksbroth.com

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E15 - Turning Founder Stories into Fundable Pitches | Power To Pitch | Kat Weaver

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Kat Weaver, founder and CEO of Power to Pitch, about the intricacies of fundraising for e-commerce and CPG founders. Kat shares her journey from being a nervous pitch competitor to a successful coach, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in pitches, exploring various funding options beyond venture capital, and the significance of building relationships with investors early on. The conversation also delves into the common challenges founders face, the role of AI in fundraising, and the key financial metrics that are crucial for e-commerce businesses.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katweaver/
Official Website (URL): https://powertopitch.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatweaver/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iamkatweaver/videos
Email: kat@powertopitch.com

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E14 - Building the Future of Brain Health | Graymatter Labs | Novi Petrusich

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Nate Littlewood interviews Novi Petrusich, the founder of Graymatter Labs, a cognitive supplement company. They discuss the unique value proposition of Graymatter, focusing on its subscription model, customer retention strategies, and the importance of financial metrics in e-commerce. Novi shares insights on market positioning, competitive analysis, and the challenges faced in building a successful e-commerce brand. The conversation emphasizes the significance of retention over reach and the need for a strong understanding of unit economics to ensure profitability.

Connect with Novi and find out more here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/graymatter-labs
Email: novi@trygraymatter.com
Official Website (URL): trygraymatter.com
Instagram: @graymatter_co
YouTube: @Graymatter_co
TikTok: @graymatter_co

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E13 - Unpacking FABRIC's Mission: Unf*ck Tomorrow | Tom Eddleston

Nate Littlewood — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood interviews Tom Eddelston, co-founder of FABRIC, an innovative beverage company focused on hemp-derived, non-alcoholic drinks. They discuss the brand's mission to promote mental health, the challenges of navigating the hemp beverage landscape, and the importance of compliance and long-term strategy in a rapidly evolving market. Tom shares insights on balancing profit with purpose, the significance of their provocative tagline, and the lessons learned from their entrepreneurial journey.

Connect with Tom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-eddleston/

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E12 - Building a Veteran-Owned Business | Andrew Arbogast | Arbo's Cheese Dip | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Andrew Arbogast shares his journey from flying Apache helicopters to founding Arbo's Cheese Dip, a veteran-owned cheese dip company. He discusses the importance of family, food, and community in his life, and how these elements inspired him to create a business that supports veteran causes. Andrew reflects on the challenges he faced as a solo operator, the lessons learned from retail experiences, and the critical support he received during tough times. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and surrounding oneself with the right people, as well as the need to stay true to one's purpose while navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.

Official Website (URL): www.arbosdip.com

Connect with Andrew:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcarbogast/
Facebook: @arbosdip
Instagram: @arbosdip
X: @arbosdip
YouTube: @arbosdip
TikTok:@arbosdip
Pinterest: @arbosdip

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E11 - Building a Brand | Alex Hilderbrandt | SUYO Pisco | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood interviews Alex Hildebrandt, co-founder of SUYO Pisco. They discuss Alex's journey from investment banking to the spirits industry, the cultural significance of Pisco, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives his business. Alex shares insights on navigating the challenges of the spirits industry, building sustainable partnerships with producers, and the importance of focusing on specific markets for distribution. He also emphasizes the need for direct consumer engagement and the strategies Suyo Pisco employs to connect with its audience. The conversation touches on fundraising, financial strategies, and the long-term vision for the brand, highlighting the importance of community and cultural heritage in business.

LinkedIn: SUYO Pisco ( https://www.linkedin.com/company/suyo-pisco )

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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E10 - Community in Fundraising | Elizabeth Eichhorn | Ampersand Way | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate interviews Elizabeth Eichhorn, an expert in alternative financing. Elizabeth shares her entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of community support and various funding options beyond traditional venture capital. The conversation delves into crowdfunding, the significance of preparing for campaigns, and the risks associated with fundraising. Elizabeth also discusses her new venture, an educational platform aimed at helping founders navigate the complex world of financing, emphasizing the need for education and community engagement in the entrepreneurial journey

Connect with Elizabeth here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-eichhorn/
Official Website (URL): www.ampersandway.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ampersand_way/

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E09 - Empowering Women in the Spirits Industry | Mara Smith | Inspiro Tequila | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate interviews Mara Smith, the CEO and founder of Inspiro Tequila. Mara shares her unique journey from a career in law to launching a female-focused, additive-free tequila brand. She discusses the challenges of navigating the spirits industry, including legal complexities, the B Corp certification process, and the importance of quality and female empowerment in her business. Mara also reflects on her financial strategies, inventory management, and the lessons learned throughout her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the significance of celebrating small wins and the role of women in the spirits industry.

Official Website (URL): https://inspirotequila.com/

Connect with Mara here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-smith-9109031a1/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inspirotequila/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirotequila/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inspirotequila

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E08 - The Journey of Goods That Matter | Tippy Tippens | Goods That Matter | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Tippy Tippens, founder of Goods That Matter. Tippy shares her entrepreneurial journey, starting with Bird Project Soap, which was created in response to the BP oil spill. She discusses her commitment to social and environmental impact, the challenges of running a retail business, and her innovative collective shop model. Tippy also reflects on the importance of customer interactions and the resilience required to navigate climate change's impact on her business. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the joy of making donations and collaborating with like-minded individuals.

Connect with Tippy here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tippytippens/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodsthatmatter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodsthatmatter
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/goodsthatmatter/?actingBusinessId=75154024940175748

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E07 - Navigating Motherhood and Entrepreneurship | Whitney Rowe | Miracle Milk Cookies | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood interviews Whitney Rowe, founder of Miracle Milk Cookies, a brand dedicated to supporting mothers during postpartum. Whitney shares her journey from a simple blog post to a national brand, discussing the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the importance of community, and the strategic decisions involved in scaling her business. The conversation covers topics such as bootstrapping, the transition to retail, building a team, and the balance between motherhood and running a business.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E06 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome | Kris Kelso | The Kelso Group | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Nate Littlewood interviews Kris Kelso, a keynote speaker and author, about the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among high achievers, particularly entrepreneurs. They discuss the nature of self-doubt, the impact of comparison, and the importance of community and vulnerability in overcoming these challenges. Kris shares insights on how to measure personal progress, cope with self-doubt, and the cultural differences in acknowledging imposter syndrome. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies for entrepreneurs to combat self-doubt and foster a supportive community.

Contact Kris here:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/kriskelso
Facebook: https://facebook.com/thekriskelso
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kriskelso
X: https://twitter.com/kriskelso

Link to Kris' book: https://www.overcomingtheimpostor.com

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E05 - I Don't Believe In Having A Plan B | Khushboo Saraf | Lattooland | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Khushboo Saraf, founder and CEO of Lattooland, a children's toy brand. Khushboo shares her journey from a stable career in finance and product management at Amazon to launching her own business during the pandemic. The conversation explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, cultural differences between India and the US, the importance of financial literacy, and the emotional landscape of the child toy industry. Khushboo emphasizes the significance of purpose in her work and the personal growth she has experienced as a founder.

Find links to connect here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khushboo-saraf-11417715/
Lattooland website: www.lattooland.us
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lattooland
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lattooland , www.instagram.com/lattooland.us
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC55qMs6kcJJxEhRfTyfGvFg
Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/lattooland

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E04 - From Distribution to Brand | StJohn Wiles | The Bison Company | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profits on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood speaks with StJohn Wiles, co-founder and president of the Bison Company. They discuss the evolution of Bison from a distribution model to a brand-focused company, the challenges faced during COVID-19, and the importance of building trust in business relationships. StJohn shares insights on scaling the brand, navigating supply chain decisions, and defining success in business, emphasizing the balance between financial growth and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Connect with the The Bison Company here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebisoncompany/
Bison Company website: https://thebisoncompany.com/
Extra company URL: http://swiles.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BisonCompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bisoncompany/
YouTube: @TheBisonCompany
TikTok: @thebisoncopmany

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

#bisonairlighter #GrillLife #BBQLife #Campfire
#profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinking
Welcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.
Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.
If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

SE01E03 - How to Embrace Risk | Joey Cofone | Baronfig | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Profit on Purpose podcast, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Joey Cofone, founder of Baron Fig and author on creativity. They explore the essence of creativity, emphasizing that it is a process rather than a magical gift. Joey shares his journey of writing a book on creativity, the challenges entrepreneurs face, and the importance of iteration in business. They discuss the founding story of Baron Fig, the evolution of the brand, and the significance of partnerships. Joey also reflects on the role of financials in business and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Baronfig website: baronfig.com
Joey Cafone website: joeycafone.com

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

SE01E02 - The Key to a 95% Customer Retention Rate | Jennifer Lea | Entry Envy | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Jennifer Lea, founder and CEO of Entry Envy, shares her inspiring journey of personal reinvention and entrepreneurship. From overcoming the challenges of divorce and the pandemic to building a purpose-driven home decor brand, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of community, customer experience, and heart-centered leadership. She discusses her strategies for customer retention, the significance of relationships in business, and her vision for future growth. Throughout the conversation, Jennifer highlights the lessons learned and the courage required to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape, ultimately aiming to empower other women to pursue their passions.

Official Entry Envy Website (URL): https://entry-envy.com/

Social Media & Online Presence:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/entryenvysigns
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/entry_envy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Entry_Envy
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jenniferleafounder
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/entry_envy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferleafounder/

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team

#profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinking
#FauxFloral #EntryEnvy #FrontPorchDecor #entrepreneurship #customerexperience #communitybuilding #homedecor #scalingbusiness #leadership #retentionstrategies
Welcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.
Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.
If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

SE01E01 - From Rock Bottom To Revenue | Charlynda Scales | Mutt's Sauce | Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:57:21 +0100

In this episode, host Nate Littlewood is joined by Charlynda Scales, a dynamic entrepreneur, author, and Air Force veteran. Charlynda shares her journey from inheriting her grandfather's sauce recipe to becoming a successful founder of multiple businesses. She discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of resilience, and how she learned to embrace rock bottom moments as opportunities for growth.

Key Takeaways

Embrace the Journey: Charlynda emphasizes the importance of learning from both successes and failures, and how each experience contributes to personal and professional growth.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: She shares insights on dealing with self-doubt and the inner critic, encouraging listeners to pursue their visions even when they don't feel fully qualified.
Financial Literacy: Charlynda discusses the financial challenges she faced and the importance of understanding business finances to ensure sustainability.
Community and Support: The value of surrounding oneself with like-hearted individuals who provide honest feedback and support.

Facebook:www.facebook.com/charlyndajean www.facebook.com/6888kitchen
Instagram:charlyndajean, muttssauce, 6888kitchen
X:charlyndajean, muttssauce, 6888kitchen
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@charlyndajean/
TikTok: muttssauce, 6888kitchen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlyndascales
Amazon, Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline (book by Charlynda Scales): https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Rock-Bottom-Has-Trampoline-Like-Hearted/dp/195690669X

Listen to the full episode to discover how Charlynda's experiences can inspire and guide you on your entrepreneurial journey. Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations!

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team
Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/
Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/
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#Entrepreneurship #Resilience #ImposterSyndrome #FinancialLiteracy#profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinking
Welcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.
Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.
If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

Profits on Purpose

SE01E42 Building a Sustainable Shoe Brand from Italy's Finest Materials | Fundae | Holly Garrard

SE01E41 Mission First, Impact Later | Lucille Health | Jess Haghani

SE01E40 The Inventory Gap Why Your Books Don't Match Your Warehouse (And What To Do About It) | Fiskal | Pierre Goldie

SE01E39 From a Thousand Stores to National Scale | Byte'm Brownies | Jack Davis and Jacob Tubis

SE01E38 Stop Flying Blind: An Accounting Expert's Guide to Financial Clarity for E-Commerce Founders | LedgerGurus | Stephen Brown

SE01E37 Scaling a Premium RTD Brand Without Full-Time Employees | The Original Southside | Meredith Mills-Merritt

SE01E36 The $500K Inventory Problem $5M Brands Don't Know About | W.NDeen Advisory | Walid Nasserdeen

SE01E35 What $600M in Growth Equity Looks For in a Consumer Brand | Prelude Growth Partners | William Quartner

SE01E34 A $2M Seed Round, 1,000 Retail Doors, and the BevNet Pitch That Made Him Cry | Bear Maple Farms | Brian Bethke

SE01E33 Depth over Premature Scale | Black Leaf Vodka | Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow

SE01E32 - The Real Costs of Retail Expansion | Cali FoodStar, Inc. | Michael Salman

SE01E31 - What Investors Actually Want to See | Dawnbreaker Oats | Scott Turner and Nick Lagonia

SE01E30 - Why everything lives in the founder's head - and how to fix it | AE&Co | Aveline Elfar

SE01E29 - Why this founder invested $1M in his own production line | FigBrew | Andy Whitehead

SE01E28 - Should You Still Be CEO? | WOO More Play | Mackie Swan

SE01E27 - The Quantitative Approach to Brand Positioning | Tapasya Bali

SE01E26 - When Your Biggest Asset (Inventory) Is Also Your Biggest Risk | Retailytics | Bellamy Grindl

SE01E25 - How Purpose-Driven Brands Win Without Competing On Price | Deus Marca | Katheryn Bwye

SE01E24 - Why Predictable Revenue Beats Funding in E-Commerce | Ethnik Living | Mehmet Can Ilker

SE01E23 - The three things I knew (and 7 that I didn't) building a multi-million dollar tree business | Simply Trees | Teddy Oitzman

SE01E22 - Overcoming adversity and claiming your second chance in the food business | Sunday Supper, Prospera Ventures | Spencer Oberg

SE01E21 - Founder to Nonprofit CEO: What Happens After You ‘Make It’ | The Farmlink Project | Eliza Blank

SE01E20 - Why Selling the Experience Matters More Than Selling the Dress | Les Aimants | Manon Martin

SE01E19 - Navigating Profitability in E-Commerce | Vincero Collective| Sean Agatep

SE01E18 - The Power of Authentic Marketing in Beauty | Bri Beauty | Brittany Ogletree

SE01E17 - Removing yourself as a bottleneck to growth | Itivate | Jessica Walther

SE01E16 - The Power of Building in Public | Beck's Broth | Beckie Prime

SE01E15 - Turning Founder Stories into Fundable Pitches | Power To Pitch | Kat Weaver

SE01E14 - Building the Future of Brain Health | Graymatter Labs | Novi Petrusich

SE01E13 - Unpacking FABRIC's Mission: Unf*ck Tomorrow | Tom Eddleston

SE01E12 - Building a Veteran-Owned Business | Andrew Arbogast | Arbo's Cheese Dip | Profits on Purpose

SE01E11 - Building a Brand | Alex Hilderbrandt | SUYO Pisco | Profits on Purpose

SE01E10 - Community in Fundraising | Elizabeth Eichhorn | Ampersand Way | Profits on Purpose

SE01E09 - Empowering Women in the Spirits Industry | Mara Smith | Inspiro Tequila | Profits on Purpose

SE01E08 - The Journey of Goods That Matter | Tippy Tippens | Goods That Matter | Profits on Purpose

SE01E07 - Navigating Motherhood and Entrepreneurship | Whitney Rowe | Miracle Milk Cookies | Profits on Purpose

SE01E06 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome | Kris Kelso | The Kelso Group | Profits on Purpose

SE01E05 - I Don't Believe In Having A Plan B | Khushboo Saraf | Lattooland | Profits on Purpose

SE01E04 - From Distribution to Brand | StJohn Wiles | The Bison Company | Profits on Purpose

SE01E03 - How to Embrace Risk | Joey Cofone | Baronfig | Profits on Purpose

SE01E02 - The Key to a 95% Customer Retention Rate | Jennifer Lea | Entry Envy | Profits on Purpose

SE01E01 - From Rock Bottom To Revenue | Charlynda Scales | Mutt's Sauce | Profits on Purpose

SE01E15 - Turning Founder Stories into Fundable Pitches | Power To Pitch | Kat Weaver