Meet Jonathan Clough: Co-Owner of ChocoLab, LLC

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

Hi Jonathan, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I believe that taking risks is one of the most important aspects in ensuring career success! Some of the biggest successes came from taking risk. I always try to think “outside the box” and do things that maybe are not the normal for my particular industry. I think one of the big mistakes that gets made in business is that people let themselves get confined in boxes because that is what is expected or what has been done before. That eventually leads to stagnation. Do things that break the norm. Yes, you will have failures, but you will learn from those failures and they will lead you to success.

What should our readers know about your business?
ChocoLab is not just going to be selling a product, it’s an experience. It allows individuals and corporate clients, celebrities, and retail partners to choose the custom ingredients for their chocolate bars but not only that the packaging is completely customized to their business or needs as well. This truly sets us apart. In addition our chocolate bars are hand made with the high quality chocolate and ingredients. A truly made in Southern California experience. Of course there have been many challenges in establishing this business and there will be many challenges to come. But you push forward, try new things, and take risks. My career path has included The Walt Disney Company, ArcLight Cinemas, Aquarium of the Pacific, and SWEET! Hollywood before launching this business. Each one of those places I have met incredible people and learned so many valuable lessons that have all contributed to where I am today.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh my gosh I am a native Californian and I love Los Angeles so much! There are so many places I would love to show off to someone. I love Tiki Bars so I would have to take them to Tonga Hut (the oldest Tiki Bar in Los Angeles), Tiki Ti, Bamboo Club in Long Beach where I live, and Trader Sam’s at the Disneyland Hotel. We would certainly have to eat at Musso and Frank Grill and Miceli’s in Hollywood. A movie at the world famous Cinerama Dome and the El Capitan Theatre would also be in the itinerary. A Broadway show at the gorgeous Pantages Theatre and a show at Center Theatre Group Downtown. We would grab a drink at Clifton’s and The Edison Downtown. And of course we would spend a day at my happy place, Disneyland. This only scratches the surface, a week with me in Southern California every minute would be packed with places to see and things to do! : Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people that deserve shoutout in helping with my success. My family was essential in instilling me to always go after my dreams and to always be myself. I am so lucky to have that. Also my friends and business partners Sergio Petrina and Mike Bundlie for jumping on this adventure with me.

Website: www.chocolab.store