How do you build a drinks brand from scratch with zero experience, no industry connections, and giants like Bud Light as your competitors?

In this episode, James Smith shares how he and his brother turned a simple idea (healthier, low-sugar vodka sodas) into Arrowtown, a drinks brand that's making serious waves.

From disastrous first batches and legal threats to bootstrapping sales by hand-delivering cases around their hometown, James opens up about the messy reality of entrepreneurship.

We cover:

• Why their initial lack of industry experience became their greatest strength.

• The grassroots marketing strategy that got them into regional stores.

• How they've managed to compete successfully against billion dollar global brands.

This conversation proves that sometimes, not knowing the "right" way is exactly what you need to find your own path to success.

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Connect with James & Arrowtown:

Arrowtown Drinks

James Smith

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AeroTown

02:55 The RTD Market Landscape

06:08 Consumer Trends and Health Consciousness

08:53 The Journey of Starting AeroTown

12:02 Networking and Learning from Others

15:03 The Importance of Naivety in Entrepreneurship

18:01 Building a Brand with Family

20:57 The Genesis of AeroTown

24:09 Transitioning from Idea to Launch

26:53 The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Family Influence

29:48 Reflections on Running a Business with a Sibling

34:48 Family Dynamics in Business

38:59 Grassroots Beginnings: The First Sale

47:13 Challenges and Setbacks

50:03 Bootstrapping and Funding Strategies

55:07 Future Aspirations and Growth

58:27 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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