Ep 436: From Basement Startup to Household Brand: How Mabel’s Labels Was Built from Scratch with Julie Cole

In this episode, Julie Cole—co-founder of Mabel’s Labels—shares the real, behind-the-scenes journey of building a product-based business from a basement startup to a category leader. What began as a simple solution to a frustrating everyday problem turned into a thriving company powered by innovation, word-of-mouth marketing, and a deep understanding of moms as consumers. Julie opens up about the early days of testing products, navigating e-commerce before it was mainstream, and building a business alongside three co-founders—all while raising a growing family. She highlights the power of community, both as a customer base and as a support system, and how partnerships can provide not just shared risk, but shared resilience.

Julie also dives into the evolution of leadership, personal branding, and what it really takes to grow a sustainable business. From learning when to delegate and hire the right people, to stepping out of day-to-day operations, she offers honest insights into scaling without losing your vision. She reflects on her transition into becoming the face of the brand, an author, and a speaker, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and connection in today’s digital world. The conversation wraps with a powerful perspective on empowerment—tuning out societal noise, trusting your own path, and quieting the “brain gremlins” that try to hold you back.

Connect with Julie:
Website: www.mabelslabels.com
LinkedIn: Julie Cole, LLB, MA
Instagram: @mabelslabels | @juliecoleinc 

Let’s keep the conversation going!
Website: www.martaspirk.com
Instagram: @martaspirk
Facebook: Marta Spirk

Want to be my next guest on The Empowered Woman Podcast?
Apply here: www.martaspirk.com/podcastguest 

Watch my TEDx talk: www.martaspirk.com/Speaking