In this episode of 'No Fixed Agenda', presented by Bubs Naturals, hosts delve into the world of small business startups with special guest Ethan Block, founder of Crybaby Nutrition. Ethan shares his journey into the competitive nutrition and endurance food industry, inspired by his ultra-race experiences and dissatisfaction with existing products. Highlighting the challenges of formulating a real-food based nutritional gel and pioneering a unique packaging process, Ethan discusses the intricacies of manufacturing, product testing, and marketing, while emphasizing the perseverance required in a saturated market. Listeners get a firsthand account of the trials and triumphs in starting a nutrition brand, offering insights and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.

00:00 Introduction to No Fixed Agenda Podcast

00:22 Introducing Crybaby Nutrition

01:05 Challenges of Small Business Ownership

02:19 The Importance of Quality and Trust in Nutrition

05:16 Ethan's Journey into Endurance Running

06:57 The Birth of Crybaby Nutrition

12:39 Developing and Testing the Product

19:02 Challenges of Launching a New Product

19:31 Realizations and Adjustments in Business

19:52 Early Marketing Efforts and Strategies

20:57 Balancing a Startup with a Full-Time Job

23:33 Entering the Retail Market

26:25 Packaging and Product Development

28:53 Testing and Shelf Life

32:15 Personal Endurance Challenges

34:52 Final Thoughts and Future Plans