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Hidden Gems: Meet Rod Vandenbos of buzzbox

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rod Vandenbos.

Hi Rod, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As far back as I can remember, I’ve always loved challenges and adventures. I loved to hear stories of others who created, invented and innovated. Being out on a ledge or diving into the unknown just seemed like it was too fun! Well… not really. Honestly, as intrigued as I was with others who took risks, it seemed a little scary to actually take that leap of faith.

But my curiosity ultimately got the best of me, and I found out from others who had chased their dreams that I wasn’t alone in those feelings… And that the rewards outweighed all the many, many, many risks. Although I have been very fortunate pursuing my dreams, I believe that success is not the end result but rather the journey. And most importantly, gaining the friends and family you make along the way. Being inspired daily by those around me fuels my desire to work harder and hopefully be able to inspire others.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smooth roads are boring. It’s the twists and turns that keep life interesting and challenging. Many times it’s scary, lonely, and hard. But I have learned, and probably not in the easiest of ways, that sticking it out ultimately reaps rewards. Sometimes those rewards aren’t what you think. I’ve had some big bumps and bruises along the way… lost money, time and mostly my pride. But the experiences, adventures and memories as I look back are the real successes.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about buzzbox?
buzzbox was really the result of a disappointment. I love events, concerts, festivals and any large celebration. So many times, hoping to find a beverage to refresh and enjoy the experience, I was mostly met with just a bad drink. I believed there must be a way to get a real cocktail made with fresh ingredients that tasted good and wasn’t made with enough chemicals to make me glow in the dark. So I took on the challenge… and on top of creating a natural and healthier cocktail, I was able to partner with the world’s best environmental packaging company and develop a recyclable, carbon neutral package to hold a real cocktail… made with premium spirits, fresh juices and zero additives. Vegan, kosher, low in carbs and calories, yet absolutely delicious. I have been fortunate that others have discovered us and believed too. Today buzzbox premium cocktails can be found on the shelves of most major grocery chains, liquor stores, big box and membership club stores! And yes, at concerts, festivals and live events… even if we are having to take a short break from crowds for now. But we will all be back soon and what better way to celebrate than with not only a great cocktail, but one that is individually aseptically sealed and kept fresh until the moment you open it!

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I don’t believe in luck in maybe the traditional terms… meaning something that happens to you that wasn’t accepted or earned. I believe that everything in our lives happens for a reason… and that each of us plays the lead role in what we ultimately experience. But being blessed and allowed opportunities, hard work and persistence usually bring anyone a little “luck”! I have been fortunate… and it’s been the result of so many friends and family that have been there to encourage me and cheer me on when I felt like giving up. And I believe that when you also invest in others and give of yourself, that things usually have a way of falling into place. Persistence is magic!

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