This week, I sat down with Alex Ferzan, co-founder of Manojo Mezcal and founder of ZADDY, creative agitator, and the definition of a career shapeshifter, from the late-90s punk scene to managing bands, to building culture-shifting brands that go way beyond hype.

We get into the real story behind how someone who once toured with hardcore bands ended up helping create some of the most irreverent, unforgettable brand voices in the last decade. Alex breaks down the chaos, luck, timing, and intuition behind building businesses that actually hit, including the wild early days of BABE Wine and what it really takes to create a brand with momentum (hint: it’s not perfection, it’s punk energy).

We talk scrappiness, culture-making, why marketing is “bullshit” but also the whole game, and how to know when you’ve hit that strategic moment where a brand is ready for its next level. Plus, Alex shares the story behind Manojo Mezcal; from Oaxacan lore to thoughtful design decisions, to partnering with world-renowned chef Enrique Olvera to build something that stays true to place, people, and craft.

If you're building a brand, dreaming about your next product, or trying to figure out how the hell to make noise in a crowded space, this episode is stacked with insight you can actually apply.

Tune in for stories about creative risk, real brand building, entrepreneurship that doesn’t look like a LinkedIn post, and why the best ideas usually start with a little chaos.

📲 Follow Alex:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderferzan/

📲 Check out Manojo Mezcal:

Website: https://manojomezcal.com/

📲 Check out ZADDY:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zaddy-llc/

Website: https://www.zaddy.net/

👋 Enjoying Above the Fold?

Keep the insights coming by subscribing to my newsletter, Sunday Postcards. Each week, I share tips, stories, and strategies that help you unlock the secrets to brand success. Written from my experience in the marketing world, it’s your go-to source for staying ahead of the curve. Subscribe at www.sundaypostcards.co and join the community!

Connect with Jess on:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jess-cervellon

Twitter: x.com/jesscervellon

Instagram: instagram.com/jess.cervellon