n this episode of You Don't Know What You Don't Know, host Kamal sits down with Neil Hudson, co-founder of the hot sauce brand Scotch Boyz, to explore Neil's entrepreneurial journey from Jamaica to establishing a successful business in the U.S. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of breaking into the competitive retail industry and the significance of media exposure in boosting brand recognition.

Neil shares the origin story of Scotch Boyz, which started from a barbecue competition in Jamaica, and the importance of maintaining consistent quality while actively seeking feedback. They discuss how building strong relationships with distributors has been crucial for scaling the business, especially in a highly competitive market. Neil also delves into the complexities of vertical integration and the need for stabilizing supply chains to ensure consistent product availability.

A reflective moment in the episode comes when they touch on the philosophical impact of capitalism, using The Giving Tree as a metaphor for the often one-sided exchange between small businesses and the larger economic forces they navigate. Neil also notes that feedback from friends isn't always helpful, as it might lack the critical honesty needed for growth.

The episode wraps up with Neil sharing future plans for Scotch Boyz, including expanding their product lines and growing their retail presence. It’s an insightful conversation that blends entrepreneurial lessons with deeper reflections on business and life.

Follow Neil Here:

https://www.instagram.com/scotchboyz

https://www.instagram.com/hudsonneil/

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https://www.instagram.com/sublimekamal/

https://www.instagram.com/sublimedoughnuts/

This show is brought to you by The Hopecast Network

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On this episode of You Don't Know What You Don't Know, Kamal interviews Bill Skeens, founder of Prairie City Bakery. Bill shares his entrepreneurial journey, which began in college when he sold peanuts, popcorn, and taffy apples to fellow students. After working for Sarah Lee, he decided to pursue his own venture and partnered with a friend to start Prairie City Bakery, facing early struggles with funding before finding success with their product, Muffin Tops.

Bill emphasizes key lessons learned along the way, including the importance of market need, the value of sales and marketing, and the necessity of having a supportive partner. He discusses the significance of identifying personal strengths and partnering with those who complement weaknesses, as well as the willingness to take risks, even leaving a secure job to follow one's passion.

The conversation also highlights the challenges of convincing consumers to try gourmet donuts and building a distribution network, as well as the critical role of competent employees in business success. Finally, Bill reflects on the careful planning involved in selling a company and the importance of unconditional love and support in both personal and professional relationships. Overall, the episode underscores the valuable lessons and successes in the world of entrepreneurship.

Follow Bill here:

https://www.instagram.com/prairiecitybakery/

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https://www.instagram.com/sublimekamal/

https://www.instagram.com/sublimedoughnuts/

This show is brought to you by The Hopecast Network

https://www.instagram.com/hopecastnetwork/

In this episode of You Don't Know What You Don't Know, Kamal interviews Dondre Anderson, owner of Symphony Chips, as they delve into themes of happiness, success, and entrepreneurship. Dondre shares his transition from engineering to launching his own business, emphasizing the vital role of relationships and personal growth in his journey.

They discuss the unique challenges faced in the food industry, the importance of targeting the right market, and the influence of unexpected sources like social media on entrepreneurial success. Dondre highlights that true happiness is defined beyond monetary success, linking it to personal connections and allies who help achieve goals.

The conversation also addresses the reality of entrepreneurship being a "feast or famine" experience and the necessity of understanding your audience's needs when building a brand. Finally, both Kamal and Dondre stress the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in both the IT field and the world of entrepreneurship.

Follow Dondre here:

https://www.instagram.com/andersondondre/

https://www.instagram.com/symphonychips/following/

https://symphonychips.com/

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https://www.instagram.com/sublimekamal/

https://www.instagram.com/sublimedoughnuts/

This show is brought to you by The Hopecast Network

https://www.instagram.com/hopecastnetwork/

In this deliciously engaging episode, Kamal welcomes Andrew Whiting creator of Hot Drops Hot Sauce and a contestant on Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars, sharing behind-the-scenes insights and the intense challenges they faced. They open up about their deep-seated love for food and cooking, which is evident in every aspect of their conversation.

Andrew reveals the journey behind Hot Drops Hot Sauce, his passion for crafting unique and bold flavors, and the vision driving his brand. As they chat about their favorite cuisines and the cultural contexts that enrich their culinary experiences, they highlight how trying diverse dishes can broaden one's culinary horizons and deepen appreciation for global flavors.

The discussion also touches on the impact of being on a high-profile TV show, including the exposure it brings and how it can influence a brand like Hot Drops. They explore the stresses and emotional rollercoasters of cooking competitions and the ongoing challenges of entrepreneurship.

Additionally, they offer a thought-provoking analysis of Shel Silverstein's The Giving Tree, reflecting on how personal experiences shape our interpretations of the book.

Join us for a flavorful journey through the culinary world, where passion, creativity, and perseverance come together in a vibrant discussion!

🎧 Tune in now for a taste of culinary passion and entrepreneurial insight!

Follow Andrew here:

https://www.instagram.com/thewhiting/

https://www.instagram.com/hotdropsauce/

Follow Kamal Here:

https://www.instagram.com/sublimekamal/

https://www.instagram.com/sublimedoughnuts/

This show is brought to you by The Hopecast Network

https://www.instagram.com/hopecastnetwork/