Hardware Podcasts

Founder Feature: Spencer Hoddeson, Gay Water

The Startup CPG Podcast · 7 Jun 2024 · 36m · Episode 45

What this episode covers

Spencer Hoddeson, founder and CEO of Gay Water, explains how he leveraged his media background to launch a mission-driven canned vodka soda brand focused on queer representation. He details the product's development, including working with a co-packer and designer to create vibrant, 90s-inspired packaging that differentiates it in a crowded hard seltzer market. Hoddeson discusses his go-to-market strategy, which prioritized organic social growth and direct-to-consumer partnerships before expanding into major retail chains like Total Wine. He also candidly shares his experiences with founder stress, imposter syndrome, and the operational challenges of scaling a small team while managing sales and product launches.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Total Wine, Direct Consumer, Yahoo, NBC
Products
Gay Water, Good Boy Vodka, Sprint, Crooked Owl
Also
Shark Tank, Mark Cuban, Kylie Jenner

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