Show notes
What happens when a Navy veteran decides he’s going to build a company the hard way–the American way–even if it takes years?
For Ryan Gubrud, that commitment shaped everything: his manufacturing, his team, his product quality, and ultimately the loyal community that now surrounds Freedom Baitz.
In this episode of Liberty Spenders, Kurt and Kristen sit down with Ryan, CFO & CSO of Freedom Baitz, to unpack the unexpected story behind a fast-growing, veteran-owned fishing brand rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and “made in the USA” pride.
Ryan shares how a simple love of fishing turned into a decades-long passion, how he rebuilt an entire supply chain so every component (yes, including the bags!) came from the U.S., and why customer service has become their most powerful differentiator.
This conversation is part entrepreneurship masterclass, part manufacturing deep-dive, and fully aligned with the Liberty Spenders mission: building businesses grounded in values, conviction, and real human connection.
Big takeaways from this episode:
• How a veteran rebuilt an entire supply chain to stay true to his values
• Why “packaged in America” is NOT the same as “Made in America”
• The surprising truth about brand loyalty inside the fishing world
• Why answering the customer service phone himself changed everything
• How Freedom Baitz introduces new people to fishing with confidence
• The role family still plays in running the business
• What rising entrepreneurs should know before reshoring manufacturing
This episode is for business owners and entrepreneurs who believe craftsmanship still matters, values still matter, and America still matters.
0:00 Intro
0:37 Meet Ryan & the world of fishing
3:23 From military service to rediscovering fishing as passion
6:09 Growing Freedom Baitz into a national veteran-owned brand
8:09 Why Made in America isn’t easy
12:28 Finally building a fully American supply chain
15:47 The family backbone behind Freedom Baitz
17:37 Trends shaping the fishing industry today
20:31 What creates real brand loyalty
23:45 Customer service that shocks customers
27:36 Why beginners should start with live bait
30:56 How Freedom Baitz is spreading brand awareness
34:49 Product failures, pivots, and customer feedback
36:04 Lightning Round
Resources Mentioned:
Freedom Baitz
https://www.freedombaitz.com
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Liberty Spenders™ Podcast
Join Kurt and Kristen, founders of Liberty Spenders™ on a groundbreaking podcast that unveils the secrets to tapping into the immense potential of the faith-based conservative market. With an estimated $5 trillion in annual spending power, this loyal and engaged consumer base represents a golden opportunity for businesses seeking rapid growth and increased customer loyalty. In each episode, Kurt and Kristen share their deep insights and proven strategies for authentically connecting with the Liberty Spender audience. Drawing from their extensive experience in political campaigns and their unique, data-driven approach, they guide listeners through the 5 Ps process: People, Positioning, Passion, Proof, and Product Launch.
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