Using Customer Feedback To Fuel Product Innovation with Jordan Engelhardt

 “The power of e-commerce and the power of the small businesses is now and not just in the hands of the bigger companies, so go for it and make it happen.” In this episode of Entreprenista, we are joined by Jordan Engelhardt, the Founder and President of Skinny Mixes LLC, the brand disrupting the beverage industry with guilt-free ways to enjoy a variety of classic cocktails, barista-style coffee creations, flavored waters, and so much more. With a knack for spotting a niche in the crowded cocktail mixer market, Jordan's journey from real estate appraiser to entrepreneurial powerhouse is nothing short of inspiring. Jordan walks us through her incredible transformation during the housing market downturn, where her quest for a healthier margarita sparked a business idea that would soon revolutionize the beverage industry. With just limes and determination, she embarked on a path that led from concept to reality in just 18 months—thanks to her mother’s unwavering support and a pivotal $5,000 loan. Discover how Jordan hustled tirelessly, pitching her innovative mixes to bars and liquor stores, navigating through initial rejections, and seizing an opportunity that catapulted Skinny Mixes into the limelight at Bed Bath & Beyond. This episode isn’t just about the triumphs; it’s a masterclass in the entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting the power of customer feedback, strategic networking, and the art of starting small to make it big in the retail world. Skinny Mixes is now a testament to female-led innovation, offering delicious, better-for-you beverage options that cater to health-conscious cocktail lovers worldwide. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a retailer, or anyone with a product-based business, this conversation with Jordan is loaded with gems on market research, engaging customers, and crafting products that truly stand out on shelves.     We talked about:    Managing growth and maintaining customer engagement  Navigating the nuances of the beverage industry  Social media marketing and retail strategy  Retail partnerships  Nurturing a dedicated customer community  Product Development and COVID-19s impact on the market  Starting and scaling a successful e-commerce business Work ethic and resourcefulness  Finding a food and beverage lab  Breaking into major retailers like Bed, Bath, and Beyond, Walmart, and Target  The pivot role of having community along the founder’s journey  Jordan’s approach to team building and work culture    Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!      Connect with Jordan Engelhardt:  Skinny Mixes  Instagram  Are you ready to make meaningful business connections that lead to real business results?  Join our Entreprenista League community of women founders! You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded Entreprenistas who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website and social channels, and MORE! Whether you’re looking to scale your existing business and want to make the right connections, or you’re thinking about finally taking the leap to launch your business, we’re here to give you access to a community of women who will celebrate and support you every step of the way.  Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!    Become An Entreprenista!  Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of The Entreprenista Podcast - the most fun business meeting for women founders and leaders. . If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.