The Road to Open Call: A Conversation with Mark Espinoza

By Bo Woloszyn, Senior Broadcast Manager

Mark Espinoza poses with an Open Call ticket winner.

What does it take to give small businesses a shot at the big leagues? Get the inside scoop on how Walmart’s Open Call—our American Dream accelerator—empowers entrepreneurs, fuels communities, and brings innovative products to shelves near you.


Whether you’re a dreamer, doer, or just a fan of incredible stories, you’ll find inspiration as Mark Espinoza, Senior Director of Public Affairs & State and Government Relations, takes us on the Road To Open Call.


In the Beyond The Aisles: The Road to Open Call podcast, Senior Broadcast Manager and Host Bo Woloszyn sits down with Mark to unpack the journey behind this powerful program that helps local suppliers take center stage.


What’s in the Podcast?

The Heart of Open Call

Mark takes us back to the Buy American Initiative and reveals how Open Call was born to spotlight US-made products and emerging innovators.


The Road to Open Call Program

Learn how Walmart preps suppliers for their big moment—from mentoring sessions to real-world advice—so they’re ready to wow at the main event.


Success Stories

Boerne Brand hot sauces got a deal at Walmart's Open Call.
Boerne Brand hot sauces from Texas went from kitchen-tested recipes to golden ticket celebrations complete with community, cake, and balloons!
Dog Sauce got a deal at Walmart's Open Call.
Dog Sauce from Colorado used Open Call to bring their nutritious dog meal toppers to a wider audience, all thanks to the power of Walmart’s scale.

Empowering Local Communities

Open Call isn’t just about new products—it’s about creating jobs, supporting families, and investing in the neighborhoods we’re proud to serve.


Secrets to Success

Hear directly from guests on what it takes to make it big with Walmart, and the emotional highs they’ve felt along the journey.


Want More?

Catch the full story and be inspired by the passionate individuals changing the shopping game—one product at a time. Listen now and let us know which dreamer’s journey resonates most with you!

Walmart's annual Open Call event
Through Open Call, Walmart helps create pathways for small and mid-size businesses to grow while helping deliver value and choice for millions of customers.
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