How a Young Solo Founder Is Taking on Alcohol Seltzer Giants | EP 39
Description
In this episode of the UNinvested Podcast, host Sahil speaks with guest Dominic Minogue, founder of Dirty Water, a hard seltzer brand carving out its unique space in a crowded industry. Dominic shares insights on navigating strict alcohol regulations, building a shelf-stable product, and finding the sweet spot between brand marketing and sales. He also offers a look into his personal routines that help maintain balance in the demanding world of entrepreneurship.
What we explore:
The challenges of entering the alcohol market with minimal industry experience
The importance of product formulation and working with flavor houses
Differentiating a brand in a mature and saturated seltzer market
Balancing founder-led sales efforts with building a team and scaling distribution
Using content creation and personal storytelling to connect with consumers
Considering strategic partnerships and new product lines, including non-alcoholic alternatives
Maintaining personal well-being to stay focused and productive as a solo founder
Where to find Uninvested:
Website: https://www.uninvested.org/
In this episode, we cover:
[0:00] Introduction & Guest Background: Overview of UNinvested, introducing Dominic and Dirty Water’s origins
[0:34] Entering the Alcohol Industry: Facing regulatory hurdles, discovering resources, and working with industry experts
[2:01] Creating a Shelf-Stable Product: Partnering with flavor houses, iterating formulations, and positioning the brand for market entry
[2:50] Standing Out in a Mature Market: Competing with household seltzer brands by focusing on simplicity, quality, and sessionability
[5:00] Branding vs. Sales: Balancing marketing narratives with boots-on-the-ground selling, securing key retail placements, and nurturing accounts
[8:00] First Sales & Distribution Lessons: Gaining initial traction through personal connections, creative merchandising, and founder-led relationship building
[17:00] Content Creation & Personal Branding: Leveraging a personal following to support the brand and connect with potential customers
[20:01] Long-Term Vision & Partnerships: Considering acquisition, equity deals, and expanding into new product categories, including THC-infused beverages
[27:21] Personal Routines & Mindset: The importance of nonnegotiable habits, like daily running, to maintain mental health and resilience as a founder
[00:27:20] Sahil: a little bit. Awesome. I love skiing. I'm so jealous that you have to carve out your winters. That's just a dream. But anyways, I'm Sahil. I'm Jason. And this has been Uninvested. Thank you. This is a personal video, any views or opinions represented in this video are personal and do not represent those of people, institutions, or organizations we may or may not be associated with in a professional or personal capacity.
The views are expressed are for entertainment purposes only and not to be misinterpreted as actionable investment advice.
