The Ripcord Moment

Business owners are today’s American heroes. They innovate, they create jobs, they believe that they can CREATE a better future for their families and our country. So much attention is given the start of a business (the idea, the technology, and the fund raising). Yet much less to the exit – as if it will magically take care of itself. When they do exit the business, it’s a once in a lifetime event – there is no do over! Yet so many are ill-prepared to make the jump.The Ripcord Moment is a podcast focused on learning from those entrepreneurs and their team of advisors who have made the jump and sharing their best ideas with you. So when you are ready for your Ripcord Moment – you can execute and hit your perfect landing. Disclosure: Information presented herein is for discussion and illustrative purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers are as of the date of the recording and are subject to change. These views are not intended as a recommendation to buy or sell any securities, and should not be relied on as financial, tax or legal advice. You should consult with your attorney, finance professional or accountant before implementing any transactions and/or strategies concerning your finances.‍

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The Ripcord Moment

Going Into Business With My Best Friend: Meli's Cookies | The Ripcord Moment (Ep. 28)

June 29, 2023 • Joe Seetoo • Season 3 • Episode 28

On this week’s episode of The Ripcord Moment, Joe Seetoo invites best friends and co-founders of Meli’s Cookies, Melissa Blue, and Melissa Mehall, to discuss how they started their gluten-free cookie company that now sells products in over 9,000 stores across the country.

Melissa and Melissa have been friends for 30 years. They say prioritizing their friendship over the company, finding mentors to seek advice from when experiencing tension, and realizing what areas are appropriate to compromise on have been critical for being able to maintain the closeness of their relationship while being business partners.

Melissa and Melissa explain that the pandemic had both positive and negative effects on their company. When the pandemic ensued, people began baking more at home, so sales went up. However, in-person meetings with buyers transitioned into Zoom sessions, and many buyer meetings have stayed remote, making it harder to sell their product since buyers cannot taste it.

A strategy that has helped Meli’s Cookies create more connections and find buyers is attending food shows and conventions. They also recommend business owners who may be minority-owned or women-owned to become certified, as this can potentially help them compete for federal contracts and gain recognition from stores who are looking to support minority and women-owned brands.

Melissa and Melissa also suggest listeners to consider raising funds earlier and working with people who have experience in their niche or industry. When starting a business from the ground up, you may not have time to train people to learn about the field. They say they have benefited the most from working with experts, mentors, and employees who are familiar with the food industry.

Check out Meli's Cookies here: https://melismonstercookies.com/

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