Shows
StirredUpFixed! Flashback Friday - The Starbucks ReplayGetting back to Starbucks.. 30% reduction in menu items.. Return to office for corporate staff.. 1000 employees cut... What's the result? Take a listen and find out.
2025-07-251h 06
StirredUpUpdate on Shein and Flashback Friday Replay From November 2024We're bringing back one of our most important episodes about the hidden costs of ultra-fast fashion! In this deep dive, we expose the real impact of Shein's business model on workers, the environment, and consumers. From questionable labor practices to environmental destruction, we break down why those $3 tops come with a much higher price tag than you think.
⚡ What we cover:
Shein's controversial supply chain practices
Environmental impact of ultra-fast fashion
Worker conditions and fair wages
The psychology behind addictive shopping apps
Sustainable alternatives that won't break the bank
Whether you're a conscious consumer or ju...2025-07-1859 min
StirredUpFBF - An Update on Abercrombie & Fitch and a Replay from 2024What happened with ex-CEO Mike Jeffries and the allegations? Is #abercrombieandfitch still a brand we can clink to? A quick 2-minute update to all your questions followed by a replay for those who are catching up. We'll return to BRAND NEW baller content after summer break!
2025-07-111h 01
StirredUpThe Buc-ee’s Breakdown: Endless Fuel, Fresh Fudge & Clean FlushesWhat kind of rest stop has 120 gas pumps, sparkling restrooms, fresh brisket, and its own merch line? We explore how Buc-ee’s turned clean toilets and Texas-sized ambition into a cult following, a billion-dollar brand, and a roadside revolution. From beaver nuggets to business strategy, this episode unpacks the legend that is Buc-ee’s.
2025-07-031h 30
StirredUpSheer Ambition: The Business, Backlash, and Brand of LululemonFrom yoga studio floors to Wall Street glory, Lululemon built a billion-dollar empire on stretchy pants and spiritual branding. But behind the curated calm lies a company shaped by controversy, culture clashes, and sheer audacity.
In this episode, we peel back the layers of Lululemon’s rise. We explore the bold business moves, explosive backlash over see-through leggings, and the brand’s ongoing attempt to balance wellness ideals with global growth. We’ll unpack its founding ethos, leadership missteps, cult-like culture, and why leggings became a lightning rod in modern consumerism.
Is Lululemon the brand exclus...2025-06-261h 01StirredUpSheer Ambition: The Business, Backlash, and Brand of LululemonFrom yoga studio floors to Wall Street glory, Lululemon built a billion-dollar empire on stretchy pants and spiritual branding. But behind the curated calm lies a company shaped by controversy, culture clashes, and sheer audacity.
In this episode, we peel back the layers of Lululemon’s rise. We explore the bold business moves, explosive backlash over see-through leggings, and the brand’s ongoing attempt to balance wellness ideals with global growth. We’ll unpack its founding ethos, leadership missteps, cult-like culture, and why leggings became a lightning rod in modern consumerism.
Is Lulul...2025-06-261h 02
StirredUpKicked Off: How a Soccer Cleat Divided a Family🌟 This week’s episode of Stirred Up dives deep into the fascinating story of the Adidas brothers—two trailblazers who, despite their rivalry, created some of the most iconic shoe brands in the world! 🥇👟
From humble beginnings to global giants, the tale of Adi and Rudi Dassler is a testament to how passion and competition can lead to innovation. Yet, at the heart of it all, they were simply trying to solve a straightforward problem: you can't wear dress shoes to play soccer! ⚽️✨
Join us as we explore how their divisions gave rise to Adidas and Puma, reshaping...2025-06-191h 15
StirredUpFrom the Vault | Brandy Melville: Cute, Cult-y, Kinda ProblematicIn an episode pulled from the vault and one of the first ever recorded shows, Jessica and Heather discuss the questionable ethics of the fast fashion brand, Brandy Melville.
It’s the brand that defined an aesthetic—tiny tanks, big attitude, and a whole lot of controversy. In this episode, we dig into how Brandy Melville became the uniform of “cool girls” everywhere, and why that’s… complicated. From one-size-fits-all policies to leaked internal drama, we’re unpacking the pretty package with the not-so-pretty core. Is Brandy just a brand—or a blueprint for exclusion? Let’s talk about it.2025-06-1254 min
StirredUpTaco 'Bout Innovation: How Taco Bell Keeps Reinventing Fast FoodFrom Doritos Locos Tacos to the mysterious disappearance (and resurrection) of the Mexican Pizza, Taco Bell isn’t just serving late-night cravings, it’s rewriting the fast-food playbook with every crunch, melt, and blast. In this episode, we unwrap the deliciously bizarre world of Taco Bell menu innovation. Who’s dreaming up these flavor Frankenfoods? Why do we love them? And how does a brand built on tacos become a pop culture icon? Join us as we dig into the culinary chaos behind your favorite fourth meal.
2025-06-051h 14
StirredUpTory Burch: Flats, Fortune, and Female FoundersTory Burch didn’t just build a fashion empire—she built a platform for impact. In this episode, we explore how the designer’s namesake brand integrates purpose into profit through the Tory Burch Foundation, empowering women entrepreneurs with access to capital, education, and community. From her signature tunics to her signature mission, we unpack how Burch redefined what it means to lead with both style and substance—proving that doing good isn’t just an add-on, it’s a business advantage.
2025-05-2954 min
StirredUpKim Kardashian and the Billion-Dollar Skims EmpireThis week, we dive into the meteoric rise of Skims, the shapewear and loungewear brand founded by Kim Kardashian. In just four years, Skims accomplished what it took Spanx two decades to build — reaching a multi-billion-dollar valuation and reshaping the intimate apparel industry along the way. We explore how Kim Kardashian turned personal necessity into global opportunity, the brand’s savvy use of scarcity marketing, inclusive sizing, and high-profile collaborations with brands like Nike and Fendi. This is more than a celebrity brand — it’s a masterclass in cultural timing, product-market fit, and strategic growth.
2025-05-221h 14
StirredUpFlavor Drops & Dollar Stops: Decoding Crumbl’s Weekly Hype MachineDive into the delicious world of Crumbl Cookies, the bakery chain that’s taken America by storm with its iconic rotating menu and massive, sweet creations.
In this episode, we’ll uncover the secret ingredients behind Crumbl’s rapid expansion from a single Utah location to over 1,000 stores nationwide. We’ll explore how social media buzz, a data-driven menu, and a cult-like customer following have turned Crumbl into more than just a cookie company—it’s a phenomenon.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the hype, join us for a behind-the-batter look at the busin...2025-05-1548 min
StirredUpDirty Work, Big Profits: The Business Behind America's TrashIn this episode, we dive into the gritty yet lucrative world of waste management. From curbside pickup to landfill operations and cutting-edge recycling technology, we’ll uncover how companies like Waste Management turn trash into billions.
But with such immense profit, are these multi-billion dollar trash companies doing enough to establish truly sustainable practices? We’ll explore the economic forces driving the industry, the environmental challenges it faces, and whether innovations like renewable natural gas are making a real difference. Get ready to rethink how America handles waste — and question if the industry's green claims hold up.
2025-05-081h 25
StirredUpAffordable Living: The Cultural Vision Behind IKEALong before IKEA became the world’s top furniture brand—and one of the most unexpected restaurant chains—founder Ingvar Kamprad had a vision: make stylish, functional furniture affordable for everyone. In this episode, we explore how Kamprad’s unconventional thinking led to a revolution in home living. From his obsession with cost-cutting and efficiency to the now-iconic flat-pack design, IKEA turned shipping logistics into a competitive advantage and made DIY assembly part of the experience. We’ll also look at how IKEA stores became immersive destinations, blending inspiration, inventory, and Swedish meatballs into one unforgettable trip. This is the story...2025-05-011h 14
StirredUpHandmade, Hungover & Hilarious in Grand RapidsFrom boozy brunches to bougie boutiques, we’re taking you on a flavorful, funky, and fabulous tour of Grand Rapids’ small biz scene. In this episode, explore cosmic vibes and tarot reading at The 12th House, and pick up handmade wellness with Fox Naturals Apothecary, laugh until we pee with Matt Mathews, and (almost) get into a bar fight at Stellas Lounge.
We’ll toast to Morning Belle’s mimosa magic, wander through the artisan alley at Gemini Handmade, and uncover the artsy-lounge combo that is The Grey Rabbit. Plus: the chic slow fashion at Adored Boutique, the comm...2025-04-241h 22
StirredUpFrom Stigma to Stock Ticker: Weed’s Billion-Dollar BoomOnce criminalized, now commercialized—cannabis has become one of the fastest-growing industries in America. In this episode, we break down the complex business behind the bud. From the top-performing states like Michigan, California, and Illinois to surprising revenue stats that rival alcohol, we explore how recreational weed is reshaping state economies. But it’s not all green pastures—federal restrictions, banking hurdles, and interstate limitations still keep the industry in a chokehold. Tune in as we unpack the promise, the pitfalls, and the evolving market dynamics of legalized weed.
2025-04-171h 08
StirredUpDropping the Donuts: How Dunkin’ Brewed a Bold RebrandFrom humble beginnings in 1950s Quincy, Massachusetts, Dunkin’ Donuts was founded by William Rosenberg with a simple but powerful vision: serve quality coffee and donuts at a price everyone could afford, fast. Rosenberg’s original shop, Open Kettle, quickly evolved into Dunkin’ Donuts, built on the idea that people loved dunking their donuts into coffee—a pairing that would define the brand for decades.
But fast forward to today, and donuts have taken a backseat. In this episode, we dig into how Dunkin’ pulled off one of the boldest brand reinventions in recent food and beverage history—dropping the...2025-04-1046 min
StirredUpHow Stanley Leveraged Collabs to Drive Demand - Part 2Stanley didn’t just ride the viral wave—they engineered it. In this episode, we break down how the 110-year-old drinkware brand turned strategic partnerships into a modern marketing machine. From exclusive drops with Starbucks that sparked in-store chaos to influencer collabs that made tumblers the ultimate status symbol, Stanley mastered the art of turning partnerships into product and demand creation. We’ll explore the business logic behind their limited editions and how aligning with the right partners helped Stanley dominate TikTok feeds and retail shelves alike. Whether it was pastel colorways with Target or bold designs with content creato...2025-04-0353 min
StirredUpDesigned for Forever: Stanley’s Cup That Defined a Lasting Brand (Part 1)
In this episode, we delve into the storied legacy of Stanley, a brand founded in 1913 by William Stanley Jr., a wealthy and ivey-league-educated inventor. Stanley's pioneering spirit led to the creation of the all-steel vacuum bottle, setting a new standard for durability and becoming an indispensable companion for workers and adventurers alike.
We'll explore how Stanley's commitment to quality and innovation cemented its reputation, particularly through the introduction of their robust drinkware that became synonymous with reliability. These products not only stood the test of time but also fostered a loyal following among th...2025-03-2752 min
StirredUpFrom Homebrew to History: The Impact of Bell’s Brewing on Craft BeerBell’s Brewing is more than just a name—it’s a cornerstone of American craft beer. Founded in 1985 by Larry Bell in Kalamazoo, Michigan, what started as a humble homebrew supply shop evolved into one of the most influential breweries in the country.
From the bold, hop-forward bite of Two Hearted Ale to the rich, complex flavors of Hopslam and the cult-followed Oberon, Bell’s has shaped the craft beer landscape for nearly four decades. But Bell’s has never been just about the beer.
Deeply rooted in values of inclusivity and self-expression, the company ha...2025-03-2053 minStirredUpThe Rising Cost of Spring Break – Where’s Your Money Going?Spring Break isn’t just a vacation—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Every year, millions of travelers flood airports, highways, and cruise terminals, chasing adventure, relaxation, and maybe even a little sunburn. Florida alone welcomes over 135 million visitors annually, many of whom make their pilgrimage during Spring Break. But as the demand for dream vacations soars, so do the costs—turning this once-budget-friendly tradition into a serious financial commitment.
The price tag for Spring Break has hit new highs, with the average trip now costing over $8,000—double what it was just a few years ago.
What’s dri...2025-03-1359 min
StirredUpHow Comfrt Became TikTok’s Fastest-Growing Apparel BrandIn just two years, Hudson Leogrande turned Comfrt from an idea into TikTok’s fastest-growing apparel brand, dominating the platform with viral weighted hoodies, sweatpants, and blankets.
But the secret to this $160M success story? Niche influencers.
🔹 It all started on Snapchat. Before launching Comfrt, Hudson struggled for years with a teeth-whitening business, wasting money on paid ads. But when he tapped into small, relatable influencers, everything changed.
🔹 He applied the same strategy to Comfrt. Instead of chasing celebrities, he built a network of 5,000+ micro-influencers who genuinely connected with their audiences. These creators earned c...2025-03-0654 minStirredUpQuick Break! See you next week!Stirred Up is taking a week off. This is a great time to listen to some of the episodes you haven't listened to yet. Top episodes are:
Levi vs Good American
Trader Joes
Budweiser/ AB
Buffalo Wild Wings
Super Bowl & NFL
See you next week!
2025-02-2703 min
StirredUpThe USPS: America’s Mail Carrier Under Pressure 📬The United States Postal Service (USPS) delivers to 167 million addresses six days a week—an essential but costly obligation. Despite generating $80 billion annually it has faced *15 years of financial losses* while remaining self-funded, relying on low-interest federal loans.
From its roots in 1693’s first post office to Benjamin Franklin’s leadership, the USPS has played a crucial role in America’s economy and communication.
Over 600,000 employees keep the service running, but challenges like pension pre-funding (recently removed in 2022) and evolving customer expectations persist.
Is the USPS an essential right for American citizens...2025-02-2052 minStirredUpTrader Joe: A Beloved Grocery Giant - But Can We Clink?This episode dives deep into the beloved grocery chain’s surprising origins, unique business model, and the controversies that have followed its success.
From its transformation from a California convenience store to a nationwide phenomenon, we unpack how Trader Joe’s keeps prices low, why its private-label products dominate the shelves, and how its locations impact real estate values.
But it’s not all smooth sailing—Trader Joe’s has faced criticism for gentrification, labor disputes, and culturally insensitive branding. Join us as we break down the history, the hype, and the heated debates surrounding this quirk...2025-02-131h 07
StirredUpThe NFL’s Billion-Dollar Empire: Why It’s the Most Successful Sports LeagueThis week Jessica and Heather dive into all things NFL with unfiltered takes, wild theories, and plenty of laughs.
From Super Bowl nostalgia and halftime show debates to the NFL’s insane financial success and the latest drama—yes, even the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce conspiracy—nothing is off-limits. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just here for the entertainment, Stirred Up breaks down the game, the brand, and the culture in a way that feels like hanging out with friends. Grab a drink and get ready to be stirred up!
2025-02-061h 09
StirredUpThe TikTok Ban Drama: Should You Be Worried?How can the app known for endless dance trends and niche memes be the ticking time bomb for privacy and national security? In this episode, we break down the drama behind the TikTok ban to talk about what the real issue is and where we stand.
We’re diving into all the juicy details. It’s part tech, part politics, and all the tea—so hit play and dive in with us as we unpack what’s really going on behind your favorite app. Now that it's back, can we clink and stay on the app or are we c...2025-01-301h 06
StirredUpCarhartt: Farmers, Rappers, and Jason MomoaIn this episode, Heather and Jessica dive into the world of Carhartt—the iconic brand that’s gone from farm fields to fashion runways. 🚜✨
We’ll explore the history, cultural impact, and unique features that make Carhartt a favorite for everyone from students and skaters to forklift operators.
Heather shares her heartfelt story about her first Carhartt coat (spoiler: it went everywhere), while Jessica spills the tea on why people are dropping hundreds of dollars on vintage Carhartt pieces. 👷♂️
Key Highlights: The OG classics: Jackets, bibs, tees, and more 🧥
How Carhartt became a li...2025-01-231h 21
StirredUpBuffalo Wild Wings (BWW): A Buffalo Chicken Craving Becomes National Sports Bar TitanTHE SPILL (0:00:00-0:21:00)
* Jessica shares about her refreshed feeling after returning to work from a break.
* Heather expresses her joy in working with kind and hardworking colleagues.
* Jessica discusses scaling back her workout routine due to prioritizing work, family, and holiday preparations, aiming to get back to normal for mental well-being and fitting back into her jeans. She also expresses her desire to run a 10K race.
* Heather shares concerns about potential perimenopause symptoms, including eye twitching, hip pain, sensitive teeth, and night sweats.
* Jessica recommends hormone panel testing...2025-01-1653 min
StirredUpCostco: Defying Corporate Norms to Build a $250 Billion PowerhouseThink $5 rotisserie chickens and a 90% membership renewal rate are just happy accidents? Think again. Costco's unconventional business model has made them a retail giant, and it all starts with defying corporate norms. In this episode of Stirred Up, we dive deep into the Costco phenomenon, exploring how they've built a $250 billion empire by prioritizing employee well-being, offering high-value products at shockingly low prices, and strategically embracing a "loss leader" approach. Here's what we uncover:
Costco's remarkable employee-first culture: Discover how their above-average wages, internal promotion practices (70% of managers started at entry-level!), and unwavering commitment to Diversity, Equity, and I...2025-01-0954 min
StirredUpChick-Fil-A: The Chicken Sandwich Legend and Unconventional Franchise StrategyChick-fil-A is a fast-food phenom that inspires fierce devotion and equally intense debate. Revered for its iconic chicken sandwiches and legendary hospitality, the brand has cultivated a near-cult following, with fans praising its fresh ingredients and unwavering commitment to values like closing on Sundays. Yet, this same values-driven ethos has ignited fiery controversy, with critics passionately challenging its history of donations and stances on social issues, making Chick-fil-A a lightning rod in the cultural conversation. Heather and Jessica discuss it all. Can we clink or are we closing on Chik-FIl-A
2025-01-021h 06
StirredUpHoliday Special 2024Jessica and Heather discuss the holidays, 2025 plans and more.
2024-12-2640 min
StirredUpStarbucks: Has the Legendary Coffee Brand Fallen?Starbucks consumes 3% of the world's coffee and is known for their innovative employee practices as they are their coffee experience. Will Starbucks be able to sustain this growth in a pivotal enterprise turning point?
2024-12-191h 02StirredUpThe CocaCola CompanyCoca-Cola's journey from its humble origins as a medicinal tonic to a global icon is a story of bold visionaries like John Pemberton, Asa Candler, Ernest and Robert Woodruff. From game-changing bottling innovations and pivotal milestones to navigating challenges and championing modern sustainability, Coca-Cola continues to inspire with its vast brand portfolio and legendary leadership.
2024-12-121h 01StirredUpSpecial Guest! Amy Schmidt on SustainabilityThe StirredUp Podcast brings special guest, Amy Schmidt on air to talk about sustainability.
2024-12-1145 minStirredUpAnheuser-Busch BudweiserAnheuser-Busch, founded in 1860, grew into the world's largest brewing company by pioneering innovations in brewing and transportation, developing iconic marketing campaigns, and ultimately merging with InBev in a highly publicized, hostile takeover.
2024-12-051h 29StirredUpThanksgiving Special & Merch GiveawayWe take a break from our regular format to celebrate thanksgiving and announce our merch giveaway winners.
2024-11-2835 minStirredUpDollar General & Dollar TreeThere are more Dollar General stores than Walmarts, Targets, McDonalds and Starbucks in the U.S. combined with shares of dollar stores grown at a rate of 150%. This episode looks at what drives that growth and what it means for the communities they enter.
2024-11-211h 03StirredUpSheinWe discuss Shein's rise as a game-changing fast-fashion giant, exploring its unique business model, mysterious CEO, and controversial practices around labor and sustainability. Hosts Heather and Jessica weigh the brand’s affordability against ethical concerns. Is Shein’s success is worth the real cost?
2024-11-1456 minStirredUpAbercrombie & FitchAbercrombie & Fitch used to thrive on exclusivity—tiny sizes, shirtless models, and a highly selective image. But today, under Fran Horowitz, it's all about inclusivity.
A&F’s “Curve Love” denim, transparent practices, and customer focus have helped them reach a “decade-high” in Q1 2024 net sales. Diversity is not just a statement; it’s driving success.
We break down Abercrombie’s remarkable shift in the latest podcast. Is it genuine progress or a savvy rebrand? Let’s discuss.
2024-11-0759 minStirredUpLevi vs Good AmericanHeather and Jessica look at the founding of America's original denim brand -- Levi and compare with the modern day denim brand -- Good American
2024-10-3151 min
FishTalkFishTalk EP4 ft Southern Indiana Bait coThe young men from Southern indiana Bait co sit down with us and have some fun. Make sure to leave a comment below for a chance to win some baits from them. who got you into fishing?
TODAYS GUEST https://www.instagram.com/southern_indiana_bait_co/
PODCAST SPONSOR Be Different and support small business Hendrix Fishing- https://hendrixfishing.com/
USE CODE: parttime10
Best custom baits in the game: https://www.instagram.com/reelcustomart/
Follow on Instagram to stay up to date Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/parttime_fi...
2022-02-041h 01
The Grace Graber PodcastEp. 12 - Stirred Up w/ Janice RigelON THIS EPISODE I am joined by Janice Rigel to talk about her ministry: Stirred Up Ministries. She shares how she got started, what God is currently doing, AND what she is looking forward to. It definitely "stirred" me up! Make sure to follow her on social media: @janice.stirredup and head over to www.stirredupministries.com for more info. 2021-08-2523 min
Journey with JaniceStay in StepLet's talk about staying in step with the Lord - trusting His timing and His ways. "The steps of the God-pursuing ones follow firmly in the footsteps of the Lord, and God delights in every step they take to follow Him.
"
-Psalms 37:23 TPT. Follow Janice @justjanicepodcast & @janice.stirredup.2021-02-2625 min
The Upbeat Podcast Hosted by Blake ReynoldsRooted in God’s Word w/ Special Guest: Janice RigelOn today’s episode I’ve got a special guest, a good friend of mine, Janice Rigel. Janice talks about the importance of being rooted in God’s word, and shares about her brand new book “Slayin’ Singlehood. Celebrating Life in Every Season”. Be sure to buy Janice’s new book and to follow her online: @janice.stirredup
@justjanicepodcast
www.stirredupministries.com . If today’s episode encouraged you be sure to share it with a friend and subscribe for more episodes. Also, follow me on social media @blakereynoldsmusic or go to my website https://www.blakereynoldsmusic.com . I hope you are blessed and...2021-01-2132 min