Today we’d like to introduce you to Leon “Shades” Ndemo.
Hi Leon, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey started when a neighbor’s dog left an unpleasant gift (dog poop) on my doorstep. This incident inspired me to design a slick 3D-printed pooper scooper that will solve a problem and elevate pet care for my affluent neighbors. It took 4 years to complete the prototype because technology kept improving. I worked as a celebrity photographer and artist to finance the manufacturing process.
When I finally had a working prototype, I complained to my daughter about how expensive the whole process was, she quickly joked and said to me “This must be the world’s most expensive pooper scooper”. Right at that moment I choose to name it “The World’s Most Expensive Pooper Scooper”.
Once I settled on a name, I started hosting small art events in my backyard to showcase my latest creation “The World’s Most Expensive Pooper Scooper.” After a few successful backyard events, I decided to make my business official and launched merchfordoglovers.com in 2024. Our mission is to elevate the lives of dog lovers. How do we do that? we have luxury pooper scoopers to help them avoid touching dog poop and comfy, stylish swag tailored for their daily dog walks.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. A lot of things happen that have made me strong. I lost my youngest brother, COVID prevented me from working as a photographer, and raising the money to continue experimenting with 3D printing was hard. A lot of companies did not have the technology to print my design. And the companies that could do it were expensive. I finally found an American company that could help complete my idea. There were a lot of dark moments but I pushed through.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have a BFA in Digital Arts and Photography. I work as a videographer, photographer, and fine artist. I’m an all-rounded artist. What makes me unique is; my ability to blend street art and fine art seamlessly. On April 13th I received an award from Supervisor Janice Hahn for my artistic contribution to the community. I’m proud to be recognized by the Board of Supervisors.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding a mentor who is not busy growing their own business is hard. I recommend starting with a family member or friend who has started a business. I have family members who advise me and a friend who runs a successful business. I also read books and take risks. Taking risks has helped me become better at trusting my gut. Trusting your gut is the most important part of growing a business.
Pricing:
- Luxury Pooper Scooper Starting $144-$499
- Hoodies starting $34
- T-shirt starting at $18
- Fine Art starting at $1100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://merchfordoglovers.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merchfordogloversllc/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplescooperllc
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpq7uFo6KfjCC88zLgY3zpQ
- Other: https://expensivepoopersooper.com
Image Credits
Merch For Dog Lovers.Com
