Mike Kurtz, founder of Mike’s Hot Honey, joins Breaking & Entering News as the brand launches its first national advertising campaign. After 15 years of grassroots growth and a dedicated fan base, Mike’s Hot Honey is expanding with “Drizzle the Mike’s,” a cross-platform campaign from agencies, Another Thing and Noble People. Mike talks about the brand’s origins, building a cult following, and making the move to national advertising.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:12 Getting to Know Mike Kurtz
01:55 Mike's Early Life and Career Aspirations
08:14 The Birth of Mike's Hot Honey
09:36 From Hobby to Business
10:05 Pizza Apprenticeship and Early Sales
14:30 Going Full-Time with Mike's Hot Honey
17:56 Branding and Packaging Evolution
21:44 Organic Growth and Media Attention
23:46 Partnerships and Expanding Uses
25:30 Unusual Uses for Mike's Hot Honey
26:18 Introducing the New Campaign
26:34 Behind the Scenes: Creating the Campaign
28:02 Shooting in LA: Location and Casting
29:51 Golden Girls Spot: Concept and Execution
34:13 Pizza Guys Spot: Concept and Execution
35:51 Campaign Rollout and Media Plan
37:52 Pizza Talk: Regional Styles and Favorites
46:32 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
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