We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Stephanie Franklin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Stephanie below.

Hi Stephanie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to start by getting your thoughts on what you are seeing as some the biggest trends emerging in your industry

One of the biggest trends we’re seeing in the wine industry is the shift toward reduced alcohol consumption, especially among Gen Z and some Millennials. More people are seeking non-alcoholic options that still offer the experience and flavor of wine without the effects of alcohol.

At a recent Fly Wines pop-up in the Bay Area, several guests asked if we offered non-alcoholic wines. They wanted to enjoy the atmosphere and taste without sacrificing their wellness goals or early morning plans. That moment confirmed the growing demand for better alternatives.

This trend brings both opportunity and challenge. There’s real potential to innovate and offer more inclusive options, but it’s also important to overcome the perception that non-alcoholic wine isn’t as enjoyable or premium. For Fly Wines, it’s about meeting people where they are and creating memorable wine experiences, no matter what’s in the glass.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Stephanie Franklin, founder and CEO of Fly Wines. My path to the wine industry wasn’t traditional. It was inspired by travel, curiosity, and a personal turning point after losing my mom. That loss motivated me to pursue something I truly loved. I left my tech career and launched Fly Wines to celebrate independent and underrepresented winemakers from around the world.

While living abroad, I discovered incredible wines from small producers whose stories rarely reach the U.S. I created Fly Wines to change that. We curate and import these hidden gems, sharing them through direct-to-consumer offerings, events, and partnerships with restaurants and wine shops.

What sets us apart is our focus on culture and connection. We are not just selling wine. We are creating experiences. As a proud Black woman-owned business, we are building a wine world that feels more inclusive and approachable.

I am most proud of the community we’ve built by helping people discover new varietals, connect through tastings, and experience wine in a way that feels joyful and personal. Whether through our curated wine club or our upcoming non-alcoholic wine line, Fly Wines is here to help you taste the world, one glass at a time.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

One book that has deeply shaped my approach to business and leadership is How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. It’s a timeless resource that reinforces the idea that business is ultimately about people. Building trust, leading with empathy, and communicating with purpose are all key takeaways that continue to influence how I work.

As an entrepreneur in a relationship-centered industry like wine, I’ve learned that success often hinges on how well you connect with others. Whether I’m collaborating with international winemakers, onboarding restaurant partners, or engaging with customers at events, the principles in this book consistently guide how I lead, listen, and build meaningful relationships.

It serves as a powerful reminder that soft skills are not just valuable, they are essential to building strong and sustainable businesses.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Pivoting into the wine industry from tech was an act of resilience in itself. Without a background in wine, I had to enter a completely new field and build from the ground up. I learned how to navigate import regulations, develop relationships with international producers, understand industry compliance, and create a brand that could resonate with a wide and diverse audience.

There were many moments when I felt overwhelmed or uncertain, but I kept moving forward. I was fueled by passion and a deep belief that the wine industry had room for a fresh perspective, one that embraces inclusivity, celebrates cultural richness, and places community at the center. That belief continues to shape everything we do at Fly Wines, from the wines we source to the experiences we create for our customers.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://flywines.club/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flywines.club/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089760608458
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flywines

Image Credits

Kofi Dodi, and Nigel