How Brands Turn Their Core Products Into a New Revenue Engine

DALLAS, TX — October 12, 2026 — Ronnie Spellman sits down with Ari Freedman, founder of Surge Brands, to unpack how licensing turns strong brands into bigger businesses. Ari explains how his agency helps brand owners, IP holders, and manufacturers expand into new retail categories, from food and beverage to CPG, technology, and beyond.

This conversation focuses on what makes a brand licensable, how iconic names like Hooters, Benihana, Mr. Softie, Toxic Waste, and Certs are being extended, and why determination matters more than quick wins. If you're building a brand and wondering how to scale beyond your core product, this episode is packed with practical perspective.