episode 0010- anything is paw-ssible: how the pupbox founders journeyed from idea stage to shark tank to exit with ariel and ben zvaifler
In this episode, we follow the journey of Ben and Ariel Zvaifler who, inspired by their own struggles to find helpful resources for their new puppy, embarked on a mission to make pet parenting easier for others. Unable to find proper toys, treats, and training materials, they decided to create their own solution, PupBox: a puppy subscription service that would deliver treats and toys tailored to each pup's needs.
Hear the start-up story, the highs and lows, and how Ben and Ariel encountered countless rejections before they were ultimately able to sell the entire company! Their story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, showing that even in the face of adversity, dreams can become reality when you refuse to take "no" for an answer. Join us as we explore how they turned their frustration into innovation, proving that with dedication and creativity, anything is paw-ssible!
Show Highlights:
1- Ben and Ariel discuss the beginnings of PupBox, from the initial idea to the creation of the first boxes. (4:00)
2- Ariel’s father gives some profound advice to help them get to market. (10:15)
3- We discuss moving to San Francisco and how that impacted their business, mentality, and motivation. (13:20)
4- Is ignorance bliss when starting a business? (17:20)
5- How did Ben and Ariel determine what to put in a PupBox with no prior experience or expertise in puppy products? (20:45)
6- How much was the initial investment to get this off the ground? (25:00)
7- We discuss everything Shark Tank, landing a deal with Robert, and how it impacted their business. (26:45)
8- Ben and Ariel provide details regarding the sale of the company to Petco, including all of the “no’s” they got before that. (35:30)
9- Luck vs. grind, and how they operate together. (40:30)
10- What is your advice for someone with a big idea that doesn’t know what to do with it? (42:20)
11- We get a snippet of the next entrepreneurial venture for the Zvaiflers after the sale of PupBox. (45:10)
12- Listener question: What is your most perfectly-designed PupBox? (48:20)
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Follow the Zvaiflers on Instagram: @benzvaifler and @arielsrf and @cloudwaterfilters and their former company @pupbox
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