In this episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, hosted by Micah Walker, we delve into the entrepreneurial journey of Julio Delgadillo, founder of BuoyClub. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Des Moines, Julio’s creative spirit was nurtured from a young age, leading him to explore spoken word poetry and eventually venture into the world of fashion with his brand, BuoyClub.
Julio shares his experiences growing up in Des Moines, highlighting how the city’s environment shaped his artistic and entrepreneurial spirit. His journey began with doodles in school and evolved into a passion for industrial design during his time at Iowa State University. Despite initial challenges, Julio’s determination led him to create BuoyClub during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing inspiration from various established brands and creating a unique identity for his own.
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BuoyClub quickly gained traction, with Julio leveraging social media and word-of-mouth marketing to spread his brand’s presence. His designs resonated with customers nationwide, resulting in successful pop-up shops and sold-out collections. Julio’s participation in pitch competitions and support from Iowa State’s entrepreneurial ecosystem further bolstered his confidence and skills.
Post-college, Julio transitioned to a role at Costco in Seattle, utilizing the marketing and social media skills he honed through BuoyClub. While balancing a full-time job and entrepreneurship poses challenges, Julio remains committed to growing his brand in a new, competitive environment.
Throughout the episode, Julio reflects on the importance of perseverance, creativity, and community support in his entrepreneurial journey. His story exemplifies the potential for young entrepreneurs to leverage their passions and skills, overcoming challenges and making a mark in their respective industries.