10 Key Principles That Built a $40M Business While Traveling with Dan Demsky
What if you could build a business that funds your dream lifestyle without sacrificing travel and freedom? Dan Demsky is the co-founder and CEO of Unbound Merino, a premium Merino wool clothing brand that has redefined minimalist, high-performance fashion. Dan has built Unbound Merino into an eight-figure global business while working fully remotely as a digital nomad. Since launching via a highly successful crowdfunding campaign, Unbound Merino has grown to be a $40M global brand beloved by travelers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to simplify their wardrobe with sustainable, multi-functional clothing. In this episode, Dan shares how he built Unbound Merino, the mindset shifts and tactics that helped him succeed, and the lessons he learned from running a business while traveling the world. Dan breaks down the realities of entrepreneurship, from validating an idea to choosing a product, hiring, and staying motivated when things get tough. He also shares the challenges of managing a growing brand while staying true to a lifestyle of adventure and exploration. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a digital nomad, or just someone looking for inspiration to take the next step, Dan’s story offers insights and practical takeaways on business, lifestyle design, and the power of taking risks. What’s one small step you could take today to move closer to your dream lifestyle? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: How Dan and his co-founders built a brand without prior industry experience Why he believes everyone should start a business with their best friends, despite the challenges Why getting brutally honest feedback is crucial and how to actually use it How a simple mindset shift helped Dan take the leap into entrepreneurship Why one of the biggest lessons in business came from a failed product idea The biggest factor that helped Unbound Merino stand out in a crowded market The surprising way travel influences decision-making as an entrepreneur How to handle risk and uncertainty without letting fear hold you back The one thing Dan believes every aspiring entrepreneur should prioritize And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Check out Unbound Merino Follow Unbound Merino on Instagram Fairing Scaling Up Want More? How to Grow Your Location Independent Solopreneur Business in 2025 + Advice from 8 Years of Slow, Nomadic Travel with Jeremy Enns Traveling on $10 a Day to Building a 7-Figure Business with The Broke Backpacker Will Hatton Building, Growing, and Enjoying a Successful 7-Figure Lifestyle Business with Dan Andrews from Tropical MBA Thanks to Our Sponsors Unbound Merino - Use code ‘TRAVEL10’ to get 10% off your Unbound Merino order. Visit Baltimore - Start planning your visit to Charm City today! Harvest Hosts - Use code TRAVEL20 for 20% off your Harvest Hosts membership. Booking.com - Book your next stay and find exactly what you’re looking for on booking.com. Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order.