Cult brands aren’t just selling products anymore — they’re building worlds. In today’s noisy landscape, the brands that thrive act like media companies: publishing content with purpose, participating in culture, and showing up with a clear editorial voice. This article breaks down why the old playbook is dead, and what modern cult brands must do to stay relevant in 2025 and beyond.

Raising capital isn’t a badge of honor—and bootstrapping isn’t a fallback plan. In this piece, I unpack the real tradeoffs between bootstrapping and fundraising in 2025, why the middle path (like seedstrapping) is gaining traction, and how to choose a funding strategy that aligns with the business you actually want to build.

Hype brands are often seen as the ultimate goal. But are they built to last? Here’s why many burn out—and what truly resilient brands focus on instead.

Family offices are increasingly active in venture capital, offering patient, long-term investments distinct from traditional VCs. Their flexible timelines allow backing of ventures requiring extended development, with a focus on capital preservation and sustainable growth over quick exits. Founders should recognize that family offices prioritize strong fundamentals and clear paths to profitability. Building relationships with family offices necessitates understanding their unique strategies and ensuring alignment with the company's long-term vision.

Community isn’t just marketing—it’s a growth strategy. In this panel, founders share how they built thriving brand communities, scaled engagement, and turned connection into a competitive edge. Read on for key takeaways.