#94 From Broke To Billionaire: Poppi CEO on SharkTank & Her $1.95B Sale | Allison Ellsworth

In this episode of the Big Deal Podcast, host Cody Sanchez interviews Alison Ellsworth, the founder of Poppi, discussing her path to creating the rapidly growing beverage brand valued at $1.95 billion. Alison emphasizes her hustle and strategic decisions, especially how she leveraged her visibility on Shark Tank to secure investment and build her brand. She shares that her journey involved overcoming skepticism and constantly innovating her cider vinegar-based soda to cater to health-conscious consumers.

Alison recounts her early career in oil and gas, explaining how it taught her the importance of relationship building and hard work. Transitioning to the beverage industry wasn't easy, yet her determination and the support of mentors guided her through. She speaks candidly about the challenges of scaling Poppi during the pandemic, which forced the company into a digital-first strategy, ultimately leading to a massive TikTok presence that garnered billions of views.

The conversation touches on crucial elements for success such as community building, creative marketing, and the importance of aligning team values with company culture. Alison asserts that true entrepreneurs must be resilient, treat the brand like a movement, and be willing to adjust rapidly in response to market trends. She encourages aspiring founders to share their stories and build their communities, emphasizing that loyalty and support from consumers are invaluable in today's competitive landscape.

Towards the end, Alison stresses that being perceived as feminine shouldn't hinder one's credibility as a business leader and that embracing unique personal styles can be advantageous in the market. Her insights provide powerful inspiration for budding entrepreneurs navigating their journeys in today's fast-paced business environment.