1953 Tequlia

1953 Tequila is more than a premium, additive-free spirit—it’s the first tequila founded, farmed, distilled, and led entirely by women. What started with a “crazy” idea and a 3D-printed bottle has become a top-selling brand, rewriting the rules of a male-dominated industry.

In this episode, Ken sits down with co-founders Lindsey Davis Stover and Shivam Mallick Shah for a candid conversation about turning no’s into yes’s, building a women-led supply chain in Mexico, and proving that values-driven companies can scale nationwide.

Filmed live at Ned’s Club in Washington, D.C., the conversation explores how two women from politics and public service broke into spirits, why 1953 honors the year women won the right to vote in Mexico, and what it means to build a brand that’s as bold as its bottle.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

The “Crazy” Idea
How two women from politics turned a wild breakfast brainstorm into a tequila brand.

Breaking Barriers in Mexico
The remarkable story of four daughters who took over their family’s agave farm—and inspired a generation of girls.

From Rejection to Recognition
Why persistence led to their first distribution deal and Men’s Journal naming 1953 the best additive-free añejo.

Building the Brand Online
How launching direct-to-consumer made 1953 the #1-selling spirit online and shifted distribution power.

Why 1953 Matters
Why their mission is about more than tequila—it’s about creating opportunity and changing an industry.

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Why This Conversation Matters:

1953 Tequila proves what happens when bold vision meets relentless execution. It’s not just about premium spirits—it’s about rewriting an industry and lifting up the women who have always been behind the bottle.

Every bottle of 1953 Tequila carries the stories of the women who made it possible.” — Co-Founders, Lindsey & Shivam, 1953 Tequila

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or just someone who loves a great story over a great sip, this episode is a toast to doing things differently.