In this episode of Her Layered Life, Amanda Barker sits down with Mel Fransen, founder of Tobiq—a travel bag company born from late-night mom-life inspiration and refined through resilience, faith, and family. What started as a frustrated search for a pacifier on a camping trip turned into the vision for a “dresser on the go” duffel bag.Mel shares how she went from sketches to launching a patented design, why color and functionality matter equally in her products, and how a heart-stopping family crisis reshaped her perspective on business and life. Amanda and Mel dive into the power of designing with women in mind, choosing experiences over things, and building a brand rooted in memories and meaning.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How the idea for Tobiq’s signature duffel was born out of necessity during family camping tripsThe journey from concept to patent to manufacturing—while juggling motherhood and uncertaintyWhy 2020 (and unexpected challenges) became a turning point for Mel and her family’s businessThe importance of experiences over material gifts when building family traditionsHow women’s perspectives bring fresh, practical problem-solving to product designThe story behind the name Tobiq and the deep family roots it representsThank you to our Her Layered Life sponsors!Get 15% off Halftee with code HERLAYEREDLIFEShop Modest Molly BoutiqueSave on a Risen Necklace with code AMANDASave on the best DIY Lashes (ProLash) with code AMANDABKiln: The ultimate Coworking Space for everyone!

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