Founders in Full
Founders in Full is a podcast about what it really takes to build a business—especially in the world of FamTech.
Hosted by Dan Ritzke, a Fractional CMO with nearly 20 years of experience (danritzke.com) each episode features honest, behind‑the‑scenes conversations with founders building companies that help families thrive. You’ll hear how they’ve shaped their brands, reached their audiences, and figured out what actually drives growth.
While most episodes spotlight FamTech founders, you’ll also find a handful of earlier conversations (and the occasional new one) with founders outside the space—because great lessons can come from anywhere.
This isn’t theory or hype. It’s real founders making real decisions.
If you’re building something of your own—especially in FamTech—you’ll walk away with stories, strategies, and practical takeaways you can put to work right away.
Founders in Full
Nick Nagele - Whiskey Acres Distilling Co.
In this episode of Founders in Full, I talk with Nick Nagele, co-founder of Whiskey Acres Distilling Co., one of the only true seed-to-spirit farm distilleries in the U.S.
Nick shares how a fifth-generation farm background, a passion for agriculture, and a leap of faith led to launching a whiskey brand rooted in storytelling, transparency, and terroir.
We dive into:
- How a side project became a full-fledged distillery—after a very real “let’s cash out our 401k” moment
- The zoning battles and government pushback that nearly derailed the business before it opened
- Why branding and storytelling became essential to their success (especially when they had nothing to sell)
- How they built a passionate following by turning customers into brand advocates—and even employees
- The long game of staying true to your vision in a market full of shortcuts
If you’re building something meaningful—and especially if marketing and brand clarity feel hard in the early stages—this episode will hit home.
Learn more about Whiskey Acres: https://www.whiskeyacres.com
Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicknagele/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-nagele-3064495/
Connect with me (Dan Ritzke):
I’m a Fractional CMO who helps FamTech companies position their brand, sharpen their messaging, create marketing strategies that drive growth, and oversee execution to make sure those plans turn into results.
👉 Visit my website: www.danritzke.com
👉 Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritzke
Apply to be on the podcast or nominate a founder:
👉 Visit my website: www.danritzke.com/podcast