Founderology Forum
From Shark Tank to Goldbelly: The strategic expansion of Topsail Steamer
As the visionary behind Topsail Steamer, Danielle stepped into entrepreneurship with a clear purpose: connection creates meaning and growth. Her leadership reflects intention, courage, and a steady belief in what becomes possible when a Founder moves with conviction.
December 2, 2025
Danielle Mahon, the Founder of seafood steam pot brand Topsail Steamer, joined host Kathleen Wood on a recent episode of the "Founderology" podcast to discuss the evolution of her company from a local storefront to a national franchise.
During the interview, Mahon detailed the philosophy behind her brand, which offers pre-prepared seafood steam pots designed for customers to cook and share at home. Mahon founded Topsail Steamer in 2017 on Topsail Island in Surf City, North Carolina. She launched the business to replicate the family tradition of the "Lowcountry boil," aiming to pioneer a new category in the food industry centered on shared experiences.
"Connection creates meaning and growth," Mahon told Wood during the broadcast.
The discussion covered Mahon's trajectory from a single location to a multi-channel brand. Following a notable appearance on ABC's "Shark Tank," the company expanded its reach through a partnership with the e-commerce platform Goldbelly, allowing the company to ship its signature pots nationwide. Mahon has since transitioned the business into a franchise model, offering opportunities to operators seeking a lifestyle-oriented business model.
Wood, a growth strategist and founder of the consultancy Kathleen Wood Partners, spoke with Mahon about the specific mindset required to scale a niche product. Mahon emphasized a leadership style focused on "disciplined optimism" and the ability to find opportunities within obstacles.
"Challenges arrive, and she responds with clarity," Wood noted regarding Mahon's approach. "Her leadership reflects a founder who pioneers a category with originality and vision."
During the episode, Mahon outlined several key lessons for entrepreneurs, including:
- Staying aligned with a core purpose to direct business strategy.
- Designing experiences that foster human connection.
- Filtering external advice through personal values.
- Thinking beyond the starting point to expand vision with confidence.
Mahon is scheduled to elaborate on these strategies as a featured keynote speaker at the Founderology Growth Summit, Feb. 2-4 in Boston. Her session will cover the specific operational plans guiding Topsail Steamer's expansion and her approach to rewriting the standard franchise playbook.
The "Founderology" podcast features interviews with business leaders and entrepreneurs focused on growth strategies and organizational culture.
