Raff's Brain #50: Riffin' with Raff feat. Grauben Lara, Reason, FEE, Video Contests, and MORE!

🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this episode of Raff's Brain, Rob Raffety reconnects with returning guest Grauben Laura to reflect on his recent victory in the Reason vertical video contest about economic freedom. Grauben shares the story behind his entry, filmed in Zimbabwe, which led to winning the contest, prize money, and future content collaborations. The conversation evolves into brainstorming for another high-stakes contest—this time with a $10,000 prize—focused on exploring the economic marvels behind iconic branded products like Kleenex. Rob and Grauben hatch plans for a creative series diving into the fascinating stories of household products that have shaped markets and everyday lives.

💡 Episode Highlights:

1. Freedom Contest Victory
   • Grauben entered and won Reason’s video contest about economic freedom, filming in Zimbabwe during an economic audit event.
   • Insights from Zimbabwe’s market dynamics and a local collaborator’s perspective added depth to his short, impactful video.
2. Economic Marvels Contest Brainstorm
   • Rob and Grauben explore ideas for a $10,000 contest hosted by the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE).
   • The idea: a series uncovering the backstory of iconic branded products that became synonymous with their categories—e.g., Kleenex, ChapStick, Band-Aid, Q-tip, and Jacuzzi.
3. Kleenex: A Tissue's Tale
   • The surprising origins of Kleenex: created as a makeup remover, not a tissue.
   • The role of market forces, resource shortages during WWI, and consumer demand in its evolution.
   • Vision for a short video showcasing early ads, global supply chains, and the marketing brilliance that made Kleenex a household name.
4. Content Creation Strategy
   • The duo outlines their collaborative approach: Rob drafts the script and sources digital assets; Grauben delivers the on-camera charisma.
   • Vision for future content: a viral, educational series on iconic products with potential to expand beyond the contest.

📞 Call to Action:
"Call the Raff's Brain Hotline! Pick a topic, make a statement, ask a question! 571-408-8058."