What happens when you earn two degrees, land a good tech job, and realize that the life you worked so hard for isn't the life you want?

For Gabrielle Brandt, founder of TRAKK, the answer was unexpected: leave her software job after just four months and build a merino wool trail sock brand from Edmonton, Alberta.

In this episode of FoundersOutlook, Gabrielle shares the honest story behind her entrepreneurial journey, from studying biology and computer science to launching a business inspired by the outdoors. And there's one more twist: her orange tabby cat, Jack, has become the company's unofficial Chief Adventure Officer.

We get into the realities of starting a business, taking risks, finding your own path, and building a brand when you're still figuring things out.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:

→ Why Gabrielle left her tech job after four months
→ What two university degrees taught her about career choices
→ Why she decided to start a merino wool trail sock business
→ The story behind TRAKK and its Elk Island, Rock, and Northern Lights sock designs
→ What it's really like building a business in the early stages
→ How she got TRAKK products into Edmonton outdoor retailer Track 'N Trail
→ How to compete with established brands as a new founder
→ Whether university was worth it and what she would do differently
→ How Gabrielle is building her personal brand in public
→ Why Jack the cat might be the company's best marketer

MEET GABRIELLE BRANDT

Gabrielle is the founder of TRAKK, an Edmonton-based outdoor sock brand with the tagline "Land On Your Feet." Her journey is a reminder that your career doesn't have to follow a straight line, and your education doesn't have to determine your future.

Follow Gabrielle:
Instagram: @gab.builds
TRAKK: @trakkbyjack
LinkedIn: Gabrielle Brandt

ABOUT FOUNDERSOUTLOOK

FoundersOutlook shares the stories behind the businesses, the decisions, the risks, and the lessons that rarely make it into the highlight reel.

Through founder interviews and practical conversations, we help entrepreneurs learn from one another, build visibility, and grow with intention.

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