How to Turn a Simple Problem into a Multi-Million Dollar Brand with Annabel Hay (Clutch)
What happens when a frustrating moment turns into a business idea you can’t ignore?
Annabel Hay is the founder of CLUTCH, the first fashion glue designed to fix wardrobe malfunctions that has turned into a globally-patented product and fast-growing brand. After four years of development CLUTCH is a fast-growing, category-shaping brand now carried by retailers like Urban Outfitters and CVS.
Annabel shares what it takes to turn a simple idea into a breakout brand. From emailing professors 60+ times to find a formulation partner and packing orders in her bedroom to going viral overnight on TikTok and landing on Shark Tank, her story is a lesson in creativity, persistence, and listening to your customers.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
✨ How to turn an everyday frustration into products people want
✨ Why scrappy execution and action matter more than perfection
✨ How to prepare for high-stakes moments and confidently sell your idea
✨ How to turn real-world moments into high-impact brand exposure
✨ How to use social media as free R&D and consumer insights
A conversation for founders and brand builders looking to turn real consumer problems into scalable, ownable brands.
Annabel’s creative inspiration:
Book: Setting the Table by Danny Meyer
Brand: Seoul Tonic
Beverage: Spicy marg
Song: “Vogue” by Madonna
Listen or watch HERE.