If you were launching a brand today, what would you actually do first? In this episode, Kristin breaks down the exact roadmap she’d walk any new founder through—no fluff, no outdated advice, no money-wasting steps. She shares why so many DTC founders burn cash too early, how to validate your product before spending a dime, and the simple, strategic sequence that sets you up for retail success later on.

You’ll learn how to build community while you build your product, how to leverage pre-sells or crowdfunding to fund production, and how to create a launch experience that fuels excitement, content, and repeat customers from day one.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why product validation comes before production
• How to test demand with zero-cost content and messaging
• The importance of community-building during development
• How to use pre-sells or crowdfunding strategically
• What retail buyers expect you to substantiate (yes, even early!)
• How to design an unforgettable unboxing experience
• Ways to keep momentum going even when you sell out
• The founder-first storytelling brands need right now

Whether you’re dreaming up your first product or you’re already knee-deep in development, this episode will show you how to do it strategically and sustainably.

Links mentioned:
📌 Get the Get Retail Ready Mini Training
📌 Grab the Margin Map

Tune in and learn how to launch like a founder buyers actually want to work with without losing your mind or your money.

Resources & Links
🎓 Ready to grow your retail business? Check out Kristin’s freebie → Get Retail Ready Course

If this episode made you think "finally, someone who gets it"—you def need my Retailish newsletter in your life.

📲 Hang out with Kristin on Instagram → @kristinaengen