Bankrupt to World’s Largest Quilt Company: The Power of a $200 MBA and Perseverance

Ever wondered how a small family business can evolve into the world’s largest supplier of its kind? In this episode, I’m joined by Al Doan, co-founder of Missouri Star Quilt Co, and we’re diving into how his journey from California to a small town in Missouri with his family set the foundation for creating a quilting empire that resonates with communities around the globe.

Listen in as Al shares the story behind the Missouri Star Quilt Co., from its humble beginnings to becoming a major economic force in its hometown. We also discuss the innovative business strategies that propelled their growth, the impact of community involvement, the challenges of scaling a family business, and how maintaining a sense of adventure can lead to profound success.

You’ll learn:

• Why Al’s move to Missouri was “the greatest adventure” of his life. (04:10)
• His unorthodox approach to obtaining an MBA through work experience and online courses. (12:00)  
• How he overcame the funk he found himself in. (25:25)
• How he grew his email list and YouTube content organically, seeing 10x growth in sales year-over-year. (37:15)
• How he attracts and retains talent in a small rural town. (44:10)
• The rolling fund that invests in early-stage technology companies pursuing innovative ideas. (55:45)

Subscribe: iTunes | Stitcher | Amazon

(With your host Andrew Youderian of eCommerceFuel.com and Al Doan of Missouri Star Quilt Company)

What Was Mentioned

• Al Doan: Website | LinkedIn
• Rolling Fun
• Coming Out of the Ice: An Unexpected Life by Victor Herman by Victor Herman 
• Sailing Alone Around the World by Joshua Slocum
• Zipify Pages
• One Click Upsell – Increase Sales 15%+ with Pre-and Post-purchase Upsells. (On average, Shopify users increase sales 15% immediately after installing the app!)

Post by Andrew Youderian

Andrew is the founder of eCommerceFuel and has been building eCommerce businesses ever since gleefully leaving the corporate world in 2008.  Join him and 1,000+ vetted 7- and 8-figure store owners inside the eCommerceFuel Community.