Lather, Rinse, Revolutionize: Javier Folgar on Reinventing Bath Rituals

We're excited to share with you an insightful interview with none other than our own founder and visionary, Javier Folgar. This engaging conversation was hosted by The Maker's Valley, delving deep into the journey, challenges, and triumphs of starting and growing TOA Waters.

In this interview, you'll get an intimate look at the passion and dedication behind our brand. Javier discusses how TOA Waters is not just a business but a mission to redefine the boundaries of the bath product market and challenge gender stereotypes in personal care.

As you read on, you'll discover the unique perspectives and innovative ideas that make TOA Waters stand out in the world of luxury bath products. Whether you're a long-time fan, a newcomer to our brand, or someone with an interest in entrepreneurship and innovation, this interview promises to be an inspiring and engaging read.

So, let's dive into the world of TOA Waters and explore the journey that has brought us to where we are today.

1. What inspired you to start your business?

My inspiration for starting TOA Waters stemmed from a blend of personal experiences and aspirations. As a triathlete and competitive swimmer, I often relied on bubble baths for muscle recovery. However, I noticed a lack of bold, non-floral scents in the market, which sparked my idea. Furthermore, my Cuban roots played a significant role. Naming the company after the mightiest river in Cuba was a tribute to my heritage and a symbol of resilience and chasing dreams. The vision was to create a bubble bath brand that shatters gender stereotypes and offers unique, earthy scents, reflecting my personal journey and breaking the conventional norms of the industry.

2. Favorite thing about being a small business owner?

My favorite aspect of being a small business owner is the fulfillment I get from seeing my ideas materialize into reality. It's incredibly rewarding to conceive a concept and then witness it come to fruition. Moreover, knowing that my products make a positive difference in people's lives adds to this satisfaction. Whether it's helping someone de-stress after a long day with a relaxing bubble bath or contributing to their self-care routine, the impact on individual well-being is profound.

Another aspect I deeply cherish is how our products play a role in defying gender stereotypes in the bathroom. It's gratifying to know that TOA Waters is not just about offering high-quality bubble baths but also about challenging and changing societal norms, making a bold statement in the world of personal care.

3. Biggest fear as a small business owner?

My biggest fear is not reaching our full potential in making a significant impact. As a small business, we have ambitious goals to disrupt stereotypes, support environmental conservation, and give back to the community. There's always a concern about whether our efforts and products resonate enough to make the intended difference and sustainably grow in a competitive market.

4. Three random facts about you.

- I have a deep admiration for Selena Quintanilla-Perez. Her music and her role in bridging cultural divides between Mexico and the USA have always inspired me.
- I love hiking. My love for hiking began with a missionary trip to a Navajo Indian reservation in Tohatchi, New Mexico, during high school. Since then, I've hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail in all 14 states it crosses, and I dream of thru-hiking the El Camino trail in Spain someday.
- I'm an avid board game enthusiast, with Catan and Wingspan being my favorites.

5. Advice for other entrepreneurs.

As an entrepreneur, embrace your unique vision with resilience and stay true to your values, whether it's social impact, environmental stewardship, or breaking stereotypes. Remember, making mistakes is part of the journey; they signify that you're taking risks and learning. Use these experiences to grow stronger, not as a source of self-criticism.

It's also crucial to recognize that you can't do everything alone. Seek advice from friends, family, and colleagues. Their perspectives can broaden your view and inspire innovative solutions. Avoid working in a bubble; instead, think outside the box and be open to new ideas. Success comes from a mix of adaptability, consistency, and a strong belief in your mission. Keep moving forward with passion and purpose.