Building Bold Brands: Transparency, Risk, & Reinvention with The Original Southside

What does it take to disrupt an industry built on tradition and regulation?

In this episode, Ashley sits down with Meredith Mills-Merritt, Founder and CEO of The Original Southside and Clean Alcohol Collective, to talk about building a modern CPG brand rooted in transparency, intuition, and bold decision-making.

From leaving the beauty industry to launching a spirits company, Meredith shares the realities of entrepreneurship inside one of the most regulated industries in the world. She breaks down what founders really face behind the scenes - from distribution hurdles to investor setbacks - and why trusting your instincts can be your greatest competitive advantage.

This conversation is for founders, brand builders, and leaders who want to understand what it actually takes to create something category-defining in a crowded market.

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Guest Appearing in This Episode

Meredith Mills-Merritt: https://www.drinksouthsides.com/

Founder & CEO of The Original Southside and Clean Alcohol Collective, building modern beverage brands centered on transparency, quality, and bold identity.