Happy Dad CEO Sam Shahidi joined Millicent Ryne on the latest episode of All the Rumors Are True, titled “Ep 2.1 Millicent Ryne x Sam Shahidi on the Happy Dad Hustle,” for a wide-ranging conversation on the brand’s rise, the mindset behind the company, and what keeps him pushing every day.

During the episode, Sam opened up about the work ethic that has helped drive Happy Dad from a new entrant in a crowded category into one of the fastest-growing brands in the space. “It’s a once in a lifetime brand,” Sam said. “I’m kind of obsessed with problem solving.” That mindset came through across the full conversation, as he described the pace of building the business, traveling nonstop, and staying close to the market.

One of the biggest takeaways from the episode was Sam’s focus on product quality. He made clear that no amount of marketing or merch matters without a great drink inside the can. “We wouldn’t be having this conversation because if our liquid wasn’t great and it wasn’t moving, I wouldn’t be here. I’d be out of business,” Sam said. He added, “At the end of the day, if it tastes like shit in a can, you’re not going to drink it.”

Sam also talked about what made Happy Dad stand out early. From day one, the brand focused on keeping things simple, from flavor profiles to packaging, while making a product people would want to drink again and again. “Everything we do is simple,” he said. “Our flavors simple. We don’t have like a hibiscus cider flavor. It’s fruit punch, watermelon, grape.”

The episode also touched on one of the most important turning points in Happy Dad’s growth, the shift into a stronger beer wholesaler network. Sam reflected on how massive that move was for the business, saying the team went “from like one distributor to 104 new ones in like 60 days,” a transition that helped unlock stronger execution in the market.

Beyond business, the conversation gave listeners a more personal look at Sam’s lifestyle and leadership style. He spoke about balancing constant travel with healthier habits, staying disciplined on the road, and using time at the ranch as a reset from the nonstop pace of running a fast-growing company. “I have to go and do physical labor,” he said. “This is freaking therapy.”

The episode is a strong look at the hustle behind Happy Dad and the thinking that continues to shape the brand as it grows. For anyone who wants a closer look at Sam’s approach to building culture, solving problems, and staying locked in, this one is worth the listen.

Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JzGRo47JFo