87. SALT Founder - Rafael de la Vega

Hi I’m Scot Cooper and welcome to the Tales from the Trail podcast by MatchPlay. In this episode I welcome Rafael de la Vega, founder of SALT, which is solving the smelly cleat problem. Their innovative cleat bag prevents odors from permeating into your bag, car, home, and anywhere else you keep your cleats. Rafael’s entrepreneurial story is inspirational, it was great to meet him and discuss his origin story, his products, and where he is taking SALT in the future.

Summary

Rafael de la Vega, co-founder of SALT, shares his journey from growing up in Bolivia, where soccer is a passion, to starting a company that addresses the problem of smelly cleats. He discusses his love for soccer and how he developed a passion for entrepreneurship. Rafael explains the technology behind SALT's cleat bags and their plans for future products. He also encourages others to pursue their ideas in the soccer industry, as the sport continues to grow in popularity. The conversation explores the current market conditions and encourages individuals to seize opportunities in a growing market. It emphasizes the importance of taking action and starting even if one doesn't feel fully ready. The speakers discuss finding joy in the process and how it leads to mastery. They also highlight the significance of staying motivated and positive, especially during challenging times.

Takeaways

Soccer is a passion in Bolivia, and Rafael experienced the sport as a cultural phenomenon.

Rafael combined his love for soccer and entrepreneurship to start SALT, a company that addresses the problem of smelly cleats.

SALT's cleat bags use carbon and silver technology to absorb and block odors, providing a solution for soccer players and parents.

The soccer market in the US is growing, and there are opportunities for innovation and involvement beyond playing or coaching.

Rafael emphasizes the importance of passion, perseverance, and collaboration in building a successful company. This is a great time to jump into the market and pursue ideas or opportunities.

Starting small and taking steps gradually can lead to success.

Finding joy in the daily process is crucial for long-term success and mastery.

Staying motivated and positive is essential, especially during difficult times.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Soccer in Bolivia

03:00 Passion for Soccer and Moving to the US

06:10 Combining Soccer and Entrepreneurship

09:18 Taking a Gap Year and Starting SALT

15:13 Restarting SALT and Breaking into the Market

20:37 The Growth of Soccer in the US and Future Plans

25:16 The SALT Product and Technology

29:54 Target Market and Branding

36:26 Naming the Company and Product

38:45 Closing Remarks

39:11 Seizing Opportunities in a Growing Market

40:32 The Importance of Taking Action

41:45 Finding Joy in the Process

42:02 Staying Motivated and Positive