Join us for an illuminating episode of Braving Business as we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Cody Grandadam, affectionately known as the "Flashlight Guy." As President of Promier Products, Cody has carved out a niche in the portable lighting industry with brands like LitezAll, Kodiak, Illumibrite, and Handsfree. From his early days mowing lawns to buy his first pair of Jordans, Cody's story is one of resilience, innovation, and strategic thinking.

Key Topics Covered:

Cody's entrepreneurial beginnings and the lessons learned from leveraging assets for financial growth.

The challenges of rebranding after a vendor trademarked his company name, costing him $250,000.

Overcoming operational hurdles, such as re-labeling products by hand in a rented LA warehouse.

Insights into the bootstrapped method and the importance of perseverance in entrepreneurship.

Guest Background:

Cody Grandadam's journey started in the 5th grade with a lawn mower and a dream. Now, as the head of Promier Products, he's a testament to the power of grit and adaptability. His story has been featured in the Chicago Journal, highlighting his path to success.

Main Insights:

Cody emphasizes that entrepreneurship is about enduring challenges and leveraging them as catalysts for growth. His experiences underscore the importance of strategic thinking and adaptability in business.

Actionable Takeaways:

Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

Leverage assets to create cash flow and invest in your business.

Maintain resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges.

Tune in to discover how Cody's journey can inspire your own path to success. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to light your way forward.

Join us on this episode of Braving Business as we dive into the world of innovation and entrepreneurship with Steve Greenberg, the tech and gadget guru known for his appearances on NBC's Today Show and his engaging game show "What The Heck Is That?" With a career spanning multiple media platforms, Steve shares his journey from a CBS news anchor to a freelance innovator, highlighting the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the ever-evolving media landscape.

Key Topics Covered:

The creation and impact of "What The Heck Is That?" and its role in spotlighting emerging inventors.

Steve's transition from traditional media roles to a dynamic freelance career.

The importance of embracing opportunities and the power of saying "yes" in business.

Strategies for navigating "dry" patches in an entrepreneurial journey.

Guest Background:

Steve Greenberg is an award-winning author and TV personality with a unique flair for showcasing innovative products. Known for his book "Gadget Nation" and his role as a judge at global innovation competitions, Steve brings a wealth of experience in identifying and promoting groundbreaking gadgets.

Main Insights:

Steve emphasizes the significance of persistence and the occasional need to "fake it til you make it." He shares personal anecdotes, including the challenges and rewards of freelance work, and the importance of maintaining confidence in one's abilities.

Actionable Takeaways:

Embrace the unpredictability of the entrepreneurial path and remain open to new opportunities.

Develop a strong personal brand to attract diverse work opportunities.

Cultivate resilience to overcome periods of uncertainty and leverage them for future success.

Tune in to discover how Steve Greenberg continues to innovate and inspire in the world of gadgets and beyond, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business professionals navigating their own unique journeys.

Episode Title:

Episode Description:

In this vibrant episode of Braving Business, we’re joined by the multi-talented Keya Wingfield, a culinary powerhouse whose journey from Bombay to Virginia has been as flavorful as the dishes she creates. As the CEO of Keya's Snacks / Daksh Foods and the reigning champion of Food Network’s “Spring Baking Championship”, Keya shares her insights on blending culinary passion with entrepreneurial acumen.

Key Topics Covered:

- Culinary Entrepreneurship: Discover how Keya turned her love for food into a thriving business, creating unique products like "Bombay Chips" that blend her Indian heritage with American tastes.

- Resilience in Business: Learn how Keya has navigated the challenges of running a business for nearly 15 years, including her strategic pivots and collaborations with major brands like McDonald’s and Duke’s Mayonnaise.

- Cultural Integration: Keya discusses her mission to bring people and cultures together through food, and how this has shaped her business philosophy.

- Charitable Initiatives: Hear about her efforts in organizing a bake sale for COVID relief in India, exemplifying her commitment to giving back.

Main Insights:

- Keya’s journey highlights the importance of authenticity and cultural roots in creating a brand that resonates with diverse audiences.

- Her experience underscores the power of resilience and adaptability in overcoming business challenges.

Actionable Takeaways:

- Embrace Your Heritage: Leverage your unique background and experiences to create authentic products or services that stand out in the market.

- Strategic Partnerships: Seek collaborations that align with your brand values to expand your reach and impact.

- Community Engagement: Use your platform to support causes that matter to you, enhancing brand loyalty and societal impact.

Join us for an episode filled with rich insights and practical advice from a chef who’s as skilled in business as she is in the kitchen. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a creative looking to infuse your personal story into your professional journey, Keya’s experiences will inspire and guide you.