Twenty In Their 20s: Dan Morad

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Invigorade, a Hermosa Beach maker of endurance drinks

Employees: 4

Financials: Less than $1 million in revenue

What led you to start your own business?

While training for my first marathon, I had reviewed nutritional options on how to fuel your body over a long endurance effort. I found there was no beverage that would help delay fatigue. I wanted a beverage that would help fuel endurance efforts, not just a hydration beverage or one that would replace carbohydrates with electrolytes.

Where did you get the startup money?

I raised my own funding from angel investors, family and friends.

What’s been the biggest challenge so far?

Wearing multiple hats, such as marketing, operations and supply chain management.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned?

That it takes a lot of hard work, dedication and passion to build a company from the ground up. There is no time off.

How many hours a day do you put in?

Eighteen hours.

You’re younger than many peers in your industry. Is that a challenge?

Yes, definitely, but as long as people understand you know what you’re talking about, that you’re intelligent and that you’ve done your research on the market, it’s less of a challenge.

Has your youth led to any awkward situations, such as when you supervise employees who are older than you?

I’ve been asked many, many times if I’m married and have kids. I view my company as my wife and kids.

Would you start another company?

Yes.

Could you ever work for someone else?

I could, but probably never would, just because I enjoy running and building companies.

What do you do to unwind?

I cycle and run triathlons, surf, golf, watch sports and go on vacation.

– Carol Lawrence

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