Q&A With Malte Niebelschuetz, Founder & CEO of Shore Buddies

1. Tell us a bit about Shore Buddies.

Shore Buddies are environmentally friendly stuffed animals. They are made from recycled plastic bottles and $1 with every purchase is donated to Ocean Protection ($1 for the Ocean)

2. What gave you the idea for your business and how did it start?

I read an article about Patagonia and how they changed their sourcing to all sustainable material. I read about one outdoor jacket that was made from recycled soda pop bottles. Living in San Diego, I was thinking about a sustainable souvenir with a similar concept. Since the material for a stuffed animal and clothing is very similar, and after finding manufacturing, Shore Buddies was born.

3. What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Creating a product that positively influences our customers as well as making a huge impact in society and makes this world a better place.

4. What are your keys to making yourself productive?

Excersice, a good night sleep and a exchanging thoughts with smart, like minded entrepreneurs. network of

5. Tell us one long-term goal in your career.

Consumer products made from recycled material will become the norm, not the exception.

6. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through the course of your career?

People are willing to help you if you ask them. However, they are offering help. It is up to yourself to take them up on their offer. Don’t wait for them to make things happen for you. Once help is offered, take it and don’t wait around!

7. What advice would you give to others aspiring to succeed in your field?

Believe in yourself and make things happen. Work smarter not harder.

8. What are your favorite things to do outside of work?

– Inspiring conversations
– Soccer

9. Name a few influential books you’ve read and/or websites you keep up with that you’d recommend to readers.

– Call me Ted – Ted Turner
– Let My People Go Surfing – Yvon Chouinard
– The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho
– The 4 hour Work Week – Tim Ferris