Meet Matt Kellogg

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Matt Kellogg. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Matt, we’ve been so fortunate to work with so many incredible folks and one common thread we have seen is that those who have built amazing lives for themselves are also often the folks who are most generous. Where do you think your generosity comes from?

That’s a great question. I think my generosity comes from a mix of gratitude and perspective. I know what it feels like to struggle – to build something from nothing, to take risks when the odds aren’t in your favor. So, when I’m in a position to help others, whether it’s through opportunity, mentorship, or resources, it feels like a responsibility, not a favor. I believe business isn’t just about profit – it’s about impact. If you’re in a position to give, why wouldn’t you?

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m Matt Kellogg, founder and CEO of CKMK Investments, the company behind several ventures that all center around one idea: bringing modern convenience to people in ways that actually serve them. Right now, my primary focus is on Vape Vend, an innovative network of nicotine vending machines placed in strategic locations where access matters – but so does responsibility.

What’s exciting about Vape Vend is how we’ve taken a traditional model – the vending machine – and modernized it for a specific, underserved market. We’re not just slinging products; we’re meeting people where they are, offering controlled access to nicotine, alternatives like Zyn, and even planning future expansions into wellness and smoking cessation products. It’s a delicate balance between commerce and care and I think we’ve struck it.

What makes our approach special is that we fully manage everything – installation, maintenance, stocking, compliance. Our partners don’t lift a finger. They just provide access to something their customers already want.

We’re currently expanding into event placements and launching a new system that delivers curated vapes to adult consumers looking for convenience, value, and variety. It’s an exciting time for us – we’re building a brand that’s both scalable and deeply human.

At the core of everything I do is a passion for autonomy – mine and the customers. Whether it’s through automation, delivery, or decentralized access, I want people to have more control over their time and choices.

We’ve got big plans. Smart convenience isn’t the future – it’s the now.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been resourcefulness, resilience, and relationship-building.

1. Resourcefulness – When you’re starting out, especially with limited capital or connections, you have to figure things out on the fly. Whether it’s learning how to build a website at 2a.m. or negotiating with a supplier when you have no leverage, being resourceful keeps the momentum alive. Advice: Don’t wait to feel ready. Google is free. YouTube is free. The answers are out there if you’re willing to dig. Start messy and refine as you go.

2. Resilience – Things will go wrong. Deals fall through. People flake. Machines break. You can’t let those moments define you. I’ve learned more from setbacks than any smooth stretch of success. Advice: Expect obstacles. Welcome them even. Every “no” or breakdown is just refining your strategy. Keep moving forward.

3. Relationship-building – You can’t do this alone. Whether it’s customers, partners, or mentors, the relationships you invest in become your foundation. Advice: Be real with people. Follow up. Overdeliver. And remember that every conversation is an opportunity, even if it doesn’t pay off immediately.

For anyone early on in their journey, stay curious, stay consistent, and surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. The beginning is supposed to be scrappy. That’s where your edge is built.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Absolutely! I’m always looking to collaborate, but I’m intentional about who I collaborate with.

I’m looking for people who are resourceful, proactive, and value driven – whether you’re a vendor, investor, tech developer, marketer, or fellow entrepreneur. If you’ve got a vision and the work ethic to back it up, there’s probably a way we can create something meaningful together.

Specifically, I’m interested in connecting with:

– Property owners or managers open to hosting smart vending machines.
– Manufacturers and wholesalers in the nicotine and wellness space.
– Tech partners focused on automation, payment systems, and compliance.
– Creative marketers who understand brand-building in modern, regulated industries.
– Investors who see the potential in unconventional convenience methods.

If you’re someone who values smart risk-taking, transparent communication, and building with long-term vision, I’d love to connect. You can reach me directly at matt@vapevendr.com.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vapevendr.com/