On today’s episode, we welcome Kahh Spence, Founder and CEO of Samir Grey — a luxury fragrance and personal care brand rooted in family, legacy, and emotional connection. After more than a decade shaping culture as a celebrity hairstylist and image architect for artists including Cardi B, Kelly Rowland, Normani, and Victoria Monét, Kahh stepped into a new chapter: building a brand of his own grounded in storytelling, representation, and self-expression.
Samir Grey was born from something deeply personal. Inspired by the women who raised him, the brand redefines modern luxury as an accessible act of self-love — offering clean, vegan, cruelty-free fragrance and essentials designed to feel intimate, grounding, and enduring. What began as a creative vision evolved into a mission-driven company that uses scent as a tool for memory, identity, and empowerment — expanding beauty beyond aesthetics into emotional ritual.
In this episode, Kahh shares what it takes to move from creative collaborator to founder and CEO, how to translate personal legacy into product, and why leading with authenticity matters more than ever in today’s beauty landscape. We discuss representation, building inclusive brands without performative messaging, navigating doubt as a first-time founder, and redefining success through impact and cultural resonance. A powerful conversation for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone ready to build boldly from their own story.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Kahh Spence and Samir Grey:
https://samirgrey.co/
https://www.instagram.com/samirgrey.co/
https://www.instagram.com/kahhspence/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kahhspence/

Sponsored By:

AT&T Business - Switch to AT&T Business at business.att.com

QUO - Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to Quo.com/karagoldin

Square - Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/karagoldin

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/823

On today’s episode, we welcome Meredith Mills-Merritt, Founder and CEO of The Original Southside — the premium gin-based ready-to-drink cocktail brand redefining what “clean” and “craft” mean in the spirits industry.
Inspired by her mom Leah’s beloved gin, lemonade, and mint summer cooler, Meredith transformed a nostalgic family recipe into a fast-growing national brand. With a background in prestige beauty, she approached beverage the way few founders do — with precision around formulation, ingredient transparency, and sensory experience. The result is a 10% ABV cocktail made with certified organic, vegan, gluten-free ingredients, sweetened with 100% sugarcane, and crafted with a proprietary gin distilled in Vermont. Since launching in 2024, The Original Southside has expanded into 20+ markets and landed at retailers like Whole Foods and Total Wine — all while building a bold, vintage-meets-modern brand identity that stands out on shelf and at major cultural events.
In this episode, Meredith shares what it takes to break into a heavily regulated, traditionally male-dominated industry, how she defines “premium” in today’s ingredient-conscious world, and the lessons she’s learned scaling quickly without compromising quality. From retail strategy to brand storytelling to mindful drinking, this conversation is a masterclass in turning personal inspiration into a polished, high-growth consumer brand.
If you’re interested in the future of mindful drinking, building mission-driven companies, or how founders successfully reinvent themselves, this episode is for you. Tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Meredith Mills-Merritt and The Original Southside:
https://www.drinksouthsides.com
https://www.instagram.com/drinksouthsides/
https://www.instagram.com/meredithleahmerritt/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredithleahmills/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/theoriginalsouthside/

Sponsored By:

AT&T Business - Switch to AT&T Business at business.att.com

RULA - Go to Rula.com/KARAGOLDIN for convenient therapy that’s covered by insurance.

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/822

On today’s episode, we welcome Lauren Stephens, Co-Founder of Dudley Stephens — the cult-favorite apparel brand redefining everyday essentials and making the turtleneck cool again. What began as a reimagined fleece silhouette has grown into a beloved, functional-yet-fashionable brand known for timeless design, versatility, and effortless polish.
In this conversation, Lauren shares how focusing on one iconic piece helped build a loyal following, why simplicity can be a powerful differentiator in a crowded fashion market, and what it takes to scale thoughtfully without chasing trends. We talk about building a brand with family, balancing function and fashion, creating wardrobe staples that last, and how intentional storytelling can turn a single product into a movement. A thoughtful episode for founders, creatives, and anyone building something meant to stand the test of time.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Lauren Stephens and Dudley Stephens:
https://www.dudleystephens.com
https://www.instagram.com/laurendudleystephens/
https://www.instagram.com/dudleystephens/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dudley-stephens/

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/821

On today’s episode, Kara welcomes Andy Freed, author of the new book Lead Like the Boss. With more than 30 years of experience leading organizations through growth and transformation, Andy has built his career around a powerful belief: communication isn’t just part of leadership — it is leadership. From coaching CEOs to guiding global coalitions — and serving as Chairman of the Board at Virtual, Inc. — Andy has seen firsthand that strategy succeeds or fails based on how well leaders communicate.
In Lead Like the Boss, Andy challenges leaders to rethink how they show up in moments that matter. Drawing inspiration from Bruce Springsteen concerts and decades of executive experience, he introduces practical tools like the “Think, Feel, Do” framework — three questions every leader should answer before any meeting, presentation, or major change initiative. The book reframes leadership as performance — not in a theatrical sense, but in the intentional preparation, sequencing, and presence that shape how messages land.
In this episode, Andy shares why leaders underestimate the communication risk of change, how different “flavors” of change require different messaging strategies, and why technology has made communication easier — but often less effective. We discuss the power of recognition, the importance of planning communication like a setlist, and how small, intentional interactions can dramatically shift engagement and alignment inside organizations.

Whether you’re leading a company, managing a team, or simply trying to show up with more clarity and impact, this conversation offers actionable insight into how communication can elevate performance at every level. Don’t miss it!

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Andy Freed and Lead Like the Boss:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfreed/
https://www.instagram.com/afreed29/

Sponsored By:

AT&T Business - Switch to AT&T Business at business.att.com

Quince - Go to Quince.com/karagoldin for free shipping and 365-day returns

Gruns - Save up to 52% off with code GOLDIN at Gruns.co

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/820

On today’s episode, we welcome Bobby Bitton, Co-Founder & CEO of O Positiv Health — the women’s wellness brand on a mission to turn taboo into mainstream conversation. Inspired by his sister’s struggle with severe PMS and backed by his training as a Stanford nutritionist, Bobby helped launch the first-ever PMS gummy and build what is now the #1 women’s health brand on Amazon, with over 25 million bottles sold.
In our conversation, Bobby shares how O Positiv scaled from a bold DTC idea into a national retail powerhouse, why humor and authenticity can coexist with science and credibility, and what it takes to build trust in historically overlooked health categories. We also discuss the role of education and data in shaping modern health brands, sibling dynamics in business, and how tackling stigma can unlock both cultural and commercial impact. A powerful episode for founders, operators, and anyone passionate about building brands that truly serve.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Bobby Bitton and O Positiv Health:
https://www.opositiv.com
https://www.instagram.com/opositiv/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbybitton/

Sponsored By:

OneSkin - Try OneSkin with 15% off using code KARAGOLDIN at oneskin.co/KARAGOLDIN

Bombas - Go to Bombas.com/KARA and use code KARA for 20% off your first purchase

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/819

On today’s episode, we welcome Dr. Nayan Patel, Founder of Auro Wellness — the science-driven wellness and skincare brand centered on the power of topical glutathione, often called the body’s “master antioxidant.” A pharmacist with more than 30 years of experience in advanced biochemistry, Dr. Patel has dedicated his career to understanding how oxidative stress impacts the body and how to support cellular health more effectively.
In this conversation, we explore why glutathione plays such a critical role in detoxification, energy, and healthy aging — and why traditional delivery methods often fall short. Dr. Patel shares the science behind Auro’s patented antioxidant delivery system, how topical application can improve absorption, and why internal health and external beauty are deeply connected. We also discuss misconceptions around detox, the future of longevity science, and what it takes to build a brand rooted in rigorous research. A thoughtful episode for anyone interested in cellular health, innovation, and science-backed wellness.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Dr. Nayan Patel and Auro Wellness:
https://www.aurowellness.com
https://www.instagram.com/aurowellness/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nayan-patel-pharmd/

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/818

On today’s episode, Kara welcomes Vy Nguyen, Co-CEO of Avocado Green Brands and Founder of Brentwood Home — a leader building one of the most recognized names in organic, non-toxic mattresses and sustainable home goods.
Vy’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2010 when he launched Brentwood Home with his own capital, focused on wellness, craftsmanship, and vertical integration. In 2018, he helped bring Brentwood Home together with Avocado to form Avocado Green Brands — creating a unified company built around transparency, long-term thinking, and products designed to be better for people and the planet. Today, Avocado has become a trusted name for consumers seeking healthier homes without compromising on quality or growth.
In this episode, Vy shares what it really takes to operationalize sustainability at scale, how to build long-term trust with consumers, and why mission must live beyond marketing and inside every department. From leadership structure to supply chain decisions, this conversation is a thoughtful look at how values-driven companies can compete — and win — in today’s market.
If you’re interested in the future of sustainable business, building mission-driven companies, or how companies create lasting trust with consumers — this episode is for you.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Vy Nguyen and Avocado Green Brands:
https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com/
https://www.instagram.com/avocado.green
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vy-nguyen-830400107/

Sponsored By:

Square - Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/karagoldin

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/817

On today’s episode, we welcome Sunny Beutler, CEO of Sunrider International — the global wellness company founded by her parents in 1982 and known as the Original Herbal Wellness & Beauty Experts. After beginning her career in law, Sunny stepped into the family business and now leads the 40+ year-old brand as it blends ancient Eastern herbal traditions with modern Western science across nearly 50 countries.
In this episode, Sunny shares what it takes to re-energize a legacy company while honoring its roots, how she balances family dynamics in business, and why holistic wellness is more relevant than ever. We also discuss leadership, motherhood, cultural heritage, and scaling with integrity. A meaningful conversation for founders, next-generation leaders, and anyone navigating legacy and reinvention.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Sunny Beutler and Sunrider International:
https://www.sunrider.com
https://www.instagram.com/sunrider
https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunrider-international/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunny-beutler/

Sponsored By:

Jones Road Beauty - Get a free Shimmer Face Oil on your first purchase. Head to Jonesroadbeauty.com and use code KARAGOLDIN at checkout.

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/816

On today’s episode, we welcome Hannah Barnstable, CEO & Co-Founder of Seven Sundays — the certified B Corp breakfast brand on a mission to flip the cereal aisle on its head. What began as a farmer’s market side hustle after Hannah left her investment banking career has grown into one of the largest natural cereal brands in the U.S., now found in Whole Foods, Sprouts, Costco, Target, and more.
Inspired by a honeymoon discovery of real muesli in New Zealand, Hannah set out to prove that breakfast could be made with 100% real ingredients — no refined sugars, artificial flavors, dyes, preservatives, GMOs, or glyphosate. In this conversation, we talk about building a mission-driven CPG brand from scratch, pioneering upcycled ingredients in cereal, scaling sustainably, and redefining what the American morning routine can look like. A thoughtful episode for founders, operators, and anyone passionate about real food, better systems, and building brands with purpose.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Hannah Barnstable and Seven Sundays:
https://www.sevensundays.com
https://www.instagram.com/sevensundayscereal/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/seven-sundays/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-barnstable/

Sponsored By:

NerdWallet - Go to NerdWallet.com/KARAGOLDIN to find the funding you deserve.

HomeServe - Go to HomeServe.com to find the plan that’s right for you.

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/815

On today’s episode, we welcome Thomas Bowman, Co-Founder & CEO of Eclipse Foods — the plant-based dairy company built on one bold idea: replicate real dairy, don’t compromise on it. A classically trained chef who worked in 16 Michelin-starred kitchens before moving into food innovation, Thomas brings culinary precision and food science together to create non-dairy products that truly match the taste, texture, and functionality of conventional dairy.
In this conversation, Thomas shares his journey from fine dining to leading R&D at JUST, where he helped bring products like JUST Mayo to market, and how those lessons shaped Eclipse from day one. We talk about the “replication, not alternative” philosophy, the science behind building dairy without the cow, scaling disruptive food products, and what it really takes to change consumer behavior in a legacy category. A must-listen for founders, food innovators, and anyone interested in the future of sustainable dairy.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Thomas Bowman and Eclipse Foods:
https://www.eclipsefoods.com
https://www.instagram.com/eclipsefoods/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-bowman-b2a2a9195

Sponsored By:

Square - Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/karagoldin

Pebl - Manage your global workforce in one place. Go to Hipebl.ai to get a free estimate.

Upwork - Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free and connect with top talent.

Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/814

On today’s episode, we welcome Lucia Smigel, CEO & Co-Founder of Supersmile — the pioneering oral care brand she built alongside her late husband, Dr. Irwin Smigel, known as the “Father of Aesthetic Dentistry.” What began with a clinical breakthrough in tooth bonding evolved into a global brand built on one core belief: the mouth is the gateway to total health.
Lucia shares how a personal observation — that traditional toothpaste was too abrasive for bonded teeth — led to the creation of Calprox®, a patented, non-abrasive whitening formula that changed the category. We talk about building a brand from science, leading in a male-dominated industry, stepping fully into CEO after loss, and carrying forward a multi-generational, women-led legacy. A powerful conversation about resilience, innovation, and building something meant to last.

Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks.

To learn more about Lucia Smigel and Supersmile:
https://www.supersmile.com/
https://www.instagram.com/supersmileofficial/
https://www.instagram.com/smigellucia/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucia-smigel-a421a127/

Sponsored By:

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Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/813