We had the good fortune of connecting with Bernard Lebel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bernard, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
When I first launched the California Sock Company, I worked over 100 hours a week, running the full end to end operation of the business. I ensured that I was aware of everything and perfected the operating model. As the business grew, I was able to hire a team to work in roles that fit into the system that we set up. In addition, as I invested in myself and my growth as a leader, I started to become better at noticing opportunities and my gaps where others can bring strengths to the team. I was able to hire out for those positions and build a strong team that could run the operations of the business, while my focus turned to the growth of the company. This set up a great balance for me to invest into my family… And this year our family grew. We have a new baby girl. With the addition- now that I have a 4 month old child – I am rethinking what we want our work-life to look like and will be figuring out how to build towards that vision.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
California Sock Company started as a fun business – we set out to solve a need for a fun crazy gift that would be purchased for friends or for your self. Something that is inexpensive and expresses personality. However, what we are most proud of, is that this business has evolved into an ecosystem for personal growth for myself and our employees. It is a safe space where people can learn life long skills, grow as individuals and employees, and one day become potentially owners within the company- if that aligns with their long term vision. The business has become a mentorship center.

On the surface, what our customers see is a place that gives people joy and an opportunity to smile – the Disney Land of a retail store. It is a fun place for people to come to enjoy music, look at funny items. and get gifts for yourself or friends that helps express their personality. While this is what people see on the surface, what is behind the scenes is so much more. In our internal mentorship program we focus on increasing financial awareness and responsibility: educating our team on everything from credit scores and debt management to how to open up investment accounts and wealth generation. Our leadership team all benefit from this mentorship experience, exploring themselves, finding their strengths and their why, just like we did on the journey of building this business.

To complete the cycle of giving back, we also donate socks to kids in need every year. For every pair of sock you buy, a child in need gets a new pair. OUR why – is to take care of children in our community and to share the joy of expression and comfort with them. Support us on this mission during this holiday season!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Any great trip to San Diego would start with breakfast in Pacific Beach, at our local favorite spots- starting with Crushed and Kono’s! We would walk the beach, enjoy the incredible views, and stop for some tacos at Oscars. Then at night, we would head up to La Jolla, for a little Eddy V’s to enjoy the breathtaking rooftop views! A week-long trip would definitely include a full day fishing trip on The San Diego (boat) for some fresh catch to turn into sushi.

To complete the week, we would throw in some amazing hikes around town… Some amazing secret hikes that will remain unnamed!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
JD DeHart of Real Deal Sleep was and is a key mentor on my journey. JD has acted as a sounding board- a space to scream, cry, and celebrate everything that we went through. He has been there on the hardest days and best days, with unyielding support. He always kept me focused on continuing to work towards my “why,” challenging me to dig deeper for motivation. In addition to sharing his decades of experience, he showered me with love and encouragement. This kind of support is a necessary factor for success for any entrepreneur. He continues to make sure that I know that I am not crazy and that he believes in my potential for success, no matter how outlandish my ideas may sound.

And my wife, Tatyana Lebel, my why.

When I was working big hours with nothing to show for it, I was able to come home to a happy and loving household that supported me and pushed me forward, so that I could not and would not fall back.

Website: https://californiasockcompany.com/discount/Shoutout

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/californiasockcompany/ and https://www.instagram.com/bernardlebel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/californiasockcompany

Twitter: https://twitter.com/casockco

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/californiasockcompany/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/california-sock-company-san-diego

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb99hkNfOzZtdT3aPNChkSQ

Other: TikTok: CaliforniaSockCompany

Image Credits
Casey Withers Photo @caseywithersphoto Sarah Castro-Correa @c2_mediaandphotography Kait Josefosky @kait.josefosky

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.