This episode of Shopify Happy Hour features Justin Tidwell, the visionary behind Nowadays—a cannabis-infused spirit brand that's shaking up the beverage industry. Justin walks us through the evolution of his THC beverage brand, sharing candid insights on everything from product development hurdles to the art of organic marketing. He explains how pivoting during the pandemic fueled rapid growth, and why authenticity in influencer marketing and customer engagement is the secret sauce to building lasting credibility. We also explore: ✅ Launching products only when they’re 100% ready ✅ Harnessing organic marketing on TikTok to drive rapid growth ✅ Balancing DTC and retail growth for sustainable expansion ✅ Tailoring strategies to a diverse THC beverage market ✅ Building a strong company culture and memorable customer experiences ✅ The future of THC beverages—education, compliance, and growth potential If you’re in e-commerce, DTC, or just curious about building a groundbreaking brand in the cannabis industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world experiences to elevate your game. Products and brands mentioned: NOWADAYS John D. Rockefeller’s Letters to his Sons Slate Milk glonuts Kemosabe Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Nowadays and Its Unique Offering 03:09 Crafting the Perfect Beverage: R&D and Flavor Development 06:02 From Concept to Market: The Journey of Nowadays 08:57 The Power of Organic Marketing and Social Media 11:59 Building Credibility Through Customer Experience 14:51 Influencer Marketing: Authenticity Over Promotion 24:05 Understanding the Target Market 27:01 Marketing Strategies and Growth 28:50 DTC vs Retail Growth 30:25 Navigating Retail Opportunities 33:28 Future of THC Beverages 35:13 Surreal Moments in Business 36:30 Hiring for Growth 39:39 Building a Strong Company Culture 42:02 Recommended Reads and Products 44:01 Efficiency as an Entrepreneur 45:52 Memorable Shopping Experiences 47:12 Connecting with Justin
