What do honey marshmallows, risk-taking, and a former government consultant have in common? A damn good story about turning passion into product. In this episode, Irv Cruz sits down with Amy Trout Hughes, founder of 48 Blocks Fine Candy, to talk about her leap from the federal world into the whimsical (and wildly competitive) world of sweets. Amy shares how she bootstrapped her business, innovated the candy game, and built a community-first brand that doesn't want to be the next Hershey's; she wants to be herself. This one's for the rebels, the candy lovers, and anyone chasing a dream that doesn't quite fit inside the box.   🔥 What You'll Learn: ✅ Why leaving a "safe" career can be your sweetest move yet ✅ How Amy used honey (not corn syrup) to win an innovation award ✅ What "collaboration over competition" really looks like ✅ How she financed her dream, 401ks, angel investors, and all ✅ Why process matters just as much as passion in food manufacturing ✅ The power of community when building a local brand   🔗 Connect with Amy: Website & Shop: https://48blocksfinecandy.com  LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/48-blocks-fine-candy/ LinkedIn (Amy): https://www.linkedin.com/in/amytrouthughes/ Phone: +1 703-772-9374 •  Email: [email protected] Who is Irv? Irv Cruz is a business advisor at Credit Banc, specializing in funding solutions, business credit, and strategic growth for small businesses. Whether you need capital, better credit, or a plan to scale, he's here to help. Book a call with him today!   Still Scrolling? Hit Play on One of These Behind the Seams: How Emily Built a Fashion Studio How a Garage Sale Turned Into a Syrup Business! Want to grow a business rooted in purpose? Watch this Can This Simple Idea Fix the Housing Crisis? The Secret ROOFING Formula That Drives Small Business Success

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