About this episode
In this candid and energizing episode, Julie Cole shares the story of how she left a career in law to co-found Mabel’s Labels, all while raising six kids and navigating the challenges of early entrepreneurship. From launching in a basement with her sister and two friends to growing into a business with a 20,000 sq. ft. facility and 50+ employees, Julie walks us through the grit, risk, and reality behind building a brand parents trust.She dives into how thoughtful business planning, strong partnerships, and a culture of shared accountability powered their growth — and how managing both a family and a startup required perspective, planning, and humor. Julie also opens up about the role of privilege in entrepreneurship and why it’s important to name it.? Key Notes & Discussion Highlights???? From Law to LabelsJulie is a “recovered lawyer” who left her legal career when her eldest child was diagnosed with autism.She co-founded Mabel’s Labels with her sister and two friends to fill a market gap for durable name labels.?? Building While ParentingLaunched the business while raising six kids — a chaotic, scrappy, and exhausting time.Emphasizes that entrepreneurship isn’t glamorous; it's long hours, risk, and sacrifice.? Business Planning InsightsDespite starting with modest expectations, they treated the business seriously from day one.Had structured business planning, took meeting minutes, and developed a long-term growth mindset.“It’s a living document” — business plans were revisited regularly as the company scaled.? Bootstrapping & PartnershipsMabel’s Labels was bootstrapped — no outside funding.Sharing financial and mental load among co-founders was a key to early survival.Strong communication, clear expectations, and a shareholder agreement were crucial.? Strategic Growth & LeadershipJulie stresses the need to eventually step back and let managers lead.
