Accidental Entrepreneurs

Embracing Imperfection to Unlock Scale

Moderated by Tinx, Investor Mark Cuban and Bala Cofounders, Natalie Holloway and Maximilian Kislevitz, discuss an unexpected, borderline absurd approach to launching and scaling a fitness brand. Natalie and Max started Bala on a napkin in 2018, when they sketched out ideas for what would eventually become Bala Bangles. Though Bala started as a side project, Natalie and Max took note of the ultra-serious, exclusionary nature of the fitness industry — a sea of lookalike brands running the same playbook; one defined by unreasonable expectations and the heartache of falling short. Since launching a successful Kickstarter campaign and appearing on ABC's Shark Tank, where they secured an investment from Mark Cuban and Maria Sharapova, Bala has grown tenfold. In contrast to the utility-led products that dominate the fitness space, Bala believes beautiful, functional fitness equipment will change the way people work out. About SXSW: SXSW dedicates itself to helping creative people achieve their goals. Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW is best known for its conference and festivals that celebrate the convergence of the interactive, film, and music industries. An essential destination for global professionals, this year’s online event features sessions, showcases, screenings, exhibitions, professional development and a variety of networking opportunities. For more information, please visit sxsw.com. Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/user/sxsw?sub_... Connect with SXSW: Website: https://www.sxsw.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SXSWFestival/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/sxsw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sxsw/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sxsw