Summary
Have you ever wondered how a simple idea born from a desire to spread joy can transform into a thriving business that redefines representation during the holidays? The latest episode of the Startup Junkies podcast offers a powerful glimpse into the origin and phenomenal growth of Black Paper Party, the vibrant Black-owned brand shaking up the seasonal décor industry
Hosts Daniel Koonce and Ty Steele sit down with the dynamic founders of Black Paper Party—Jasmine Hudson, Madia Willis, and J’Aaron Merchant—to uncover the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs behind their journey. As Jasmine recounts, the beginnings were humble: an aspiration to create joy and belonging amid the uncertainty of the pandemic, combining creativity and community at its core. Their first designs, launched through print-on-demand, quickly gained traction, paving the way for exponential growth and millions of products sold in stores like Walmart, Target, and more.
The episode takes listeners through the unique strengths each founder contributes—Madia’s design and sourcing expertise, J’Aaron’s illustration talent rooted in children’s media, and Jasmine’s mastery of merchandising and operations. The team shares the reality of bootstrapping, scaling rapidly, and holding true to their mission of authentic representation and joy, even as their products land on shelves nationwide.
For anyone curious about what it really takes to break into major retail with a purpose-driven brand, or how collaboration and authenticity can power success, this episode is an inspiring look behind the wrapping paper. Tune in today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Starting a Project During Quarantine
(05:59) Professional Background and Diversity Work
(08:46) Career Journey from College to Walmart
(11:26) Securing and Managing Licensing Deals
(14:55) Focusing on Customer Feedback and Values
(16:39) Startup Challenges and Supply Issues
(22:17) Expanding Brand and Holiday Strategy
(26:58) Embracing Curiosity and Asking Questions
(28:56) Closing Thoughts
Links
Sponsored by Bank of America
Connect with Us!
Do you consider yourself a startup junkie? Join the conversation by following us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Startup Junkie wants to come alongside these entrepreneurs every step of the way. Want to learn more about our services?
Keep listening
How a Dentist Grew a Telehealth Startup 1,200% with Dr. Maria Kunstadter
Toothaches are one of the top reasons people end up in the emergency room, where there’s no dentist to treat them. In this entrepreneur interview, Dr. Maria Kunstadter…
Show notes
How Cities Can Make Starting a Business Easier with Fayetteville Mayor Molly Rawn
Starting a small business is full of unknowns. Fayetteville's mayor says City Hall should be the one predictable part. In this entrepreneur interview, Molly Rawn, Mayor…
Show notes
How Small Businesses Can Win Defense Contracts with Chip Laingen
Small businesses, not the big defense primes, are where the Department of Defense is looking for its next breakthrough. Here's how to get noticed, and how to be ready…
Show notesNever miss an episode
New episodes and the best founder takeaways, straight to your inbox.
Looking for a specific guest or topic across the archive? Search every episode with CLIPr → or browse the library.
English 
Spanish 
Korean