Carl Radke (@carlradke) is an entrepreneur and businessman with a diverse background in entertainment and the beverage industry. After growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and earning a degree in TV/Radio/Film from Syracuse University, Carl became known as a cast member on Bravo's Summer House, where he has appeared for nine seasons.
In 2019, Carl partnered with his best friend, Kyle Cooke, and became the VP of Sales for Loverboy (@drinkloverboy), a rapidly growing beverage company. After getting sober in 2021, Carl expanded his focus to the non-alcoholic beverage sector, launching a Non-alcoholic product, Loverboy NA, and then Soft Bar (@softbarcafe) + Cafe in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The business offers a mindful consumption experience with premium functional soft cocktails, coffee, and other NA beverages.
With his unique combination of entertainment experience and entrepreneurial success, Carl is now focused on the growing market for non-alcoholic beverages and mindful consumption.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:
How Carl Radke built his career - from growing up in Pittsburgh, to his time at Syracuse University to reality TV, building his online voice + personality & launching multiple businesses / brands.
Carl's journey from a reality TV personality on Summer House to a successful entrepreneur.
The pivotal moments that led Carl to get sober and how he navigates a career in the alcohol industry.
The origin story of his new venture, Soft Bar and how it's redefining the social scene.
The difference between building a non-alcoholic brand for sober individuals versus mindful drinkers.
How Carl's personal experiences with sobriety are reflected in the mission and culture of Soft Bar.
Why Carl believes the hospitality industry needs to adapt to changing consumer habits, especially among Gen Z.
His advice on entrepreneurship, personal growth, and the importance of authenticity.
EPISODE SUMMARY:
0:00:35 Carl's journey from growing up in Pittsburgh to becoming a reality TV personality.
0:03:59 Carl's Career Evolution: From the TV industry to a surprising start in dental sales.
0:10:14 The Journey to Reality TV: The story behind joining Summer House and its impact on his life.
0:12:41 Power of Authenticity: Why genuine storytelling is crucial for brand and personal growth.
0:17:41 Carl’s Sobriety Story: His personal journey with alcohol and the pivotal moments that led to recovery.
0:25:03 The Rock Bottom Moment: Hitting his lowest point and finding hope through community and help.
0:35:47 Loverboy and Sobriety: Navigating his role in an alcohol brand while living a sober life.
0:41:49 The Birth of Soft Bar: The inspiration and mission behind creating an elevated non-alcoholic social space.
0:46:42 The Changing Culture: Why Gen Z and others are moving away from alcohol and how businesses must adapt.
0:55:02 Redefining Social Spaces: How Soft Bar is aiming to influence a new, more mindful social experience.
1:06:43 Entrepreneurial Mantra: Carl shares his favorite quote about hard work and relationships.
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@coffeeandagoodvibe | @ayeshasehra
EPISODES MENTIONS:
Follow Carl Radke on | Instagram | Tiktok | Website
Visit and Follow Soft Bar on | Website | Instagram | Tiktok
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