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REAL IS RARE

REAL IS RARE

By: Simpson Labs
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Welcome to the Real is Rare Podcast , where we pull back the curtain on the world of supplements, business, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by the founders of Simpson Labs—a trusted leader in supplement manufacturing—this show brings you candid conversations with customers, friends, and fellow business owners.


Each episode dives into the real stories behind the industry: how today’s leaders got started, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they learned along the way. From the triumphs to the trials, our guests share insights that inspire, educate, and connect anyone passionate about building something great.


Whether you’re an entrepreneur or just curious about what it takes to succeed in this fast-growing industry, the Real is Rare Podcast gives you a front-row seat to the journeys shaping the future of sports nutrition and health + wellness.

© 2026 REAL IS RARE
Economics
Episodes
  • REAL IS RARE EP 10 - Darren Housholder and Lucas Thompson with Psycho Pharma
    Jul 13 2026

    Building a successful supplement brand isn't just about creating great product; it's about building the right systems, making the right partnerships, and knowing when to let go so you can grow.

    In this episode of Real Is Rare, the Psycho Pharma team returns to Simpson Labs six months after transitioning both their manufacturing and fulfillment under one roof. They share what it was really like handing over decades of logistics, why the move became a turning point for the company, and how it allowed their team to focus on what they do best: building the brand.

    The conversation also dives into the launch of Vitals, Psycho Pharma's newest daily pre-workout, premium formulation strategies, retail relationships, international expansion, inventory management, and why quality and consistency will always outperform shortcuts.

    Whether you're launching your first supplement company or scaling an established brand, this episode is packed with real-world lessons on manufacturing, operations, partnerships, and long-term growth.

    Topics covered:

    • Why the right manufacturing partner can accelerate growth
    • The benefits of outsourcing fulfillment
    • Launching a premium supplement that stands out
    • Retail strategy vs. direct-to-consumer growth
    • Scaling internationally without sacrificing quality
    • Managing inventory while protecting cash flow
    • Building a brand through trust, consistency, and long-term thinking

    This is another conversation about building something that lasts—because in business, just like in life, Real Is Rare.

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    50 mins
  • REAL IS RARE EP 9 - Chris Wagner and Austin Holt with MacroCap Labs
    May 12 2026

    What does it take to build one of the fastest-growing beverage manufacturers in the country? In this episode of the Real is Rare podcast, the guys sit down with the team behind MacroCap Labs—the company helping power some of the biggest protein and functional beverage brands on the market today.

    From carbonated protein drinks and functional beverages to explosive growth inside Costco, Sam’s Club, and major retailers, this conversation dives deep into the business of innovation, manufacturing, and surviving the chaos of scaling fast. The episode covers everything from protein shortages and flavor innovation to why most brands fail, how great partnerships are built, and what separates companies that last from companies that disappear.

    But beyond the business talk, this episode is packed with real entrepreneur moments—taking massive risks, betting on yourself when nobody else believes in the vision, learning from failures, and building companies through relentless work ethic and obsession with improvement.

    If you’re into supplements, beverages, entrepreneurship, branding, or just want an inside look at how major products actually get made and brought to market, this episode is loaded with gems.

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    36 mins
  • REAL IS RARE EP 8 - Doug Miller and Dave Rynecki with Core Nutritionals + more
    Apr 28 2026

    REAL IS RARE is back with another BANGER! On this episode, the team sits down with Doug Miller and Dave Rynecki, the powerhouse minds behind the brands Core Nutritionals, Unmatched, Merica Labz + more, for an inside look at what it really takes to build, scale, and evolve multiple successful companies in the supplement industry.

    From early retail roots to managing a portfolio of brands, this conversation dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship - navigating rapid growth, making tough decisions, and learning when to double down or pivot. The group breaks down everything from product innovation and licensing deals (including major collaborations like Transformers) to the challenges of inventory, distribution, and staying ahead in a competitive market.

    More than just business, this episode highlights the importance of team, vision, and authenticity - why having the right people matters, how staying true to your standards builds loyal customers, and what it means to create products you actually believe in.

    If you’re an entrepreneur, brand builder, or someone looking to understand what it takes to succeed in the supplement space, this episode offers a raw, unfiltered look behind the scenes of an industry that never slows down.

    Massive thanks to Doug and Dave for making the trip across country and stopping by the LAB! Needless to say we're all excited for what's next...just a tiddy bit!

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    42 mins
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