This Surfer Became A Millionaire From Founding UGG w/ Brian Smith (Founder)

The Dealroom with Shamus Madan

In this episode, Shamus Madan interviews Brian Smith, founder of UGG. They delve into UGG's origin story and its connection to surfing, discuss the brand's growth phases and struggles, and explore the pivotal shift in UGG's advertising strategy. They also talk about the power of emotions in advertising, the challenges faced in Brian's entrepreneurial journey, and key lessons from building UGG.

Brian Smith is the founder of UGG. Brian was born in Australia, where he first developed his love of surfing. With just $500, he founded UGG Imports to bring sheepskin footwear to America. After seventeen years, as sales reached $15 million, he sold the business to Deckers Outdoor Corporation. The UGG brand has since exceeded $1 billion in international sales.

Brian is also the author of The Birth of a Brand, detailing his experience founding UGG, and speaks to entrepreneurs all over the world, inspiring them on their journey of building a business.

Twitter of Host (Shamus Madan): @mbitpodcast

Learn More About Brian's Book Here: https://www.amazon.com/Birth-Brand-Unlikely-Start-Up-Billion/dp/1582705380/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1677042731&sr=8-1

(0:00) Introduction and Background of Brian Smith, founder of UGG (3:13) The Role of Surfing in UGG's Origin Story (7:03) Growth Phases and Struggles of UGG (11:37) Turning Point: UGG's Advertising Strategy Shift (14:42) Understanding the Power of Emotions in Advertising (16:03) The Origin and Branding of UGG (17:15) The Challenges and Decisions in Brian's Entrepreneurial Journey (20:35) Key Lessons from Building UGG (24:31) Conquering Obstacles in Business and Wrap-up