Building BIX: Focused on Product and Steady Growth (feat. Vlad Ixel, Elite Runner)

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In this episode, Markus and Ned welcome elite runner Vlad Ixel, a trailblazing figure in the endurance sports community. The conversation begins with Vlad's impressive racing history, where he shares his journey from his early days to becoming a dominant force in ultra-running. The hosts dive into Vlad's views on Hong Kong’s growing trail running scene and the unique opportunities it offers for athletes. Vlad also discusses what it's like to be a sponsored athlete, the perks that come with it, and how sponsorships have evolved over time.

As the conversation progresses, Vlad opens up about his transition from racing to entrepreneurship, describing his initial motivation for starting BIX Hydration. After achieving great success in ultra-running, he felt the need for a bigger challenge, leading him to launch his own product focused on athlete hydration. Vlad touches on the similarities between ultra-running and building a business, noting the perseverance required in both endeavours. He shares insights into scaling BIX from his home base in Perth to the global stage, emphasising the importance of influencer marketing in growing the brand.

The episode concludes with Vlad reflecting on the long-term goals for BIX Hydration and his vision for the company’s future. Markus, Ned, and Vlad discuss whether there is an ultimate goal for the brand, or if the focus remains on steady, sustainable growth. In the final segment, Ned wraps up with his signature segment, "Ned's Drop," leaving listeners with a thoughtful reflection on the balance between personal passion and business success.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome

(00:30) Intro Vlad Ixel

(01:30) Vlad’s racing history

(08:20) Views on Hong Kong’s trail running scene

(11:40) Being a sponsored athlete

(17:10) Initial motivation to start BIX Hydration

(20:35) Looking for a bigger challenge after racing

(24:50) Ultra running vs building a business

(31:20) Scaling from Perth to the world

(33:40) Using influencer marketing

(37:25) Is there a goal for BIX? 

(45:20) Ned’s Drop

Vlad Ixel’s & BIX Links:

https://www.youtube.com/c/vladixel

https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/?hl=en

https://www.vladixel.com/

https://utmb.world/runner/241291.vlad.ixel

https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/

Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com)

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