Twenty-three questions flew by in what felt like a blink – a testament to Julián’s open and engaging spirit. Our conversation, sparked by his journey from Austria to Paraguay, quickly blossomed into the heart of his business: Libre D. More than just a brand, Libre D is a reflection of Julián’s personal philosophy – a lifestyle rooted in freedom, health, and simplicity.
A New Start In Paraguay
Julián’s path to Paraguay was not linear. It was a bold step away from what he describes as the rigid, costly structure of life in Austria. “It is really difficult there,” he shared. “Everything is very formal. You need a lot of capital to start something. The bureaucracy, health costs and just general costs of living are too high to escape the rat race.”
Nearly four years ago, Paraguay became his fresh start. What first drew him in? “The meat,” he said with a smile. But it was more than that. It was the lifestyle. “You can have little money and live like a king here. People do not realise it, but the average Paraguayan eats better than most Europeans. The quality of life is just better.”
A Journey Toward Health
Ironically, Julián did not start out of passion about wellness. That spark came from necessity. “Back in Austria, I barely had money. I ate pasta with butter and cheese every day. When I got sick, everything changed.” His illness triggered a shift in priorities. Health became a mission. That is when he started experimenting – initially making beef tallow for personal use. A business partner recognised the potential. “He said, ‘Why not turn this into soap?’ And I said, ‘Okay, let us try it.’” Thus, Libre D was born, growing organically from kitchen experiments to a full-fledged wellness brand.
The Philosophy Behind Libre D
Julián’s inspiration stems from personal transformation and a desire to challenge the norm. “I got sick. I could not work for half a year. That is what really inspired me to live healthier and to help others do the same.” He envisions a world where healthy choices are accessible and mainstream. “Imagine walking into any fast-food restaurant and knowing that your fries were cooked in beef fat – not vegetable oil – and that it is actually good for you. That is the long-term dream.”
The brand’s name – Libre D – encapsulates that vision. “It means ‘free from.’ Free of chemicals, free of harmful ingredients, free to live better. My brother-in-law and I came up with it, and it just felt right.” And Julián practises what he preaches. “I use our soap, moisturiser, even the beef fat in cooking. If I recommend it, it is because I believe in it and I have been using it myself for over a year before turning it into a business.”
Community, Connection, And Growth
The Paraguayan market proved surprisingly receptive. Through Facebook, Instagram, and word-of-mouth, Libre D found a growing community of customers seeking natural alternatives. “There are people who are really happy with the products. That motivates me. Their feedback gives me strength.”
That first positive review? “I was surprised – it was so well received. I did not expect people to get so excited about beef fat!” The feedback continues to be overwhelmingly positive. According to Julián, negative comments are virtually nonexistent.
Today, Libre D offers a range of products: beef tallow, collagen, soaps (currently curing), moisturisers, and candles. Each one is crafted with meticulous care. “We use precision equipment, temperature controls, digital scales. We are perfectionists. Nothing is burned, nothing is rushed.”
Libre D: A Vision That Is Just Getting Started
If Libre D were a person? “It would be a bit like me,” Julián said. “A little different, a little special. Wanting to do things its own way.” Julián’s future plans are ambitious. He aims to expand into natural personal care – lipsticks, hair wax, and more – without ever compromising the brand’s health-first philosophy.
His top-selling product? “Collagen. People really love it, and it delivers results.” Although some products still await official licensing for wider consumption, Libre D continues to grow – one satisfied customer at a time.
Julián also takes pride in the impact beyond health. Working alongside his brother-in-law, he finds joy in building something that supports his family. “That is what makes me happiest: seeing my family involved and knowing I can give back to them.”
Advice For Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those considering their own leap into entrepreneurship, Julián offers simple but powerful advice: “I would like to inspire people to do the same. Just do it. Do not wait until everything is perfect. If you wait for the right moment, it may never come.”
Libre D: The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, Julián hopes Libre D becomes a symbol of trust, wellness, and purpose. “I want people to recognise Libre D and know it means something is healthy, natural, and made by people who truly care. I would love to see as many people as possible caring about health and well-being. Also, competition does not scare me. The more people trying to improve the lives of others the better.”
From a cramped apartment in Austria to crafting high-quality natural products in Paraguay, Julián’s journey is a reminder that sometimes, the healthiest path is the one that feels most like home.
Exclusive Discounts For VIP Members
As a special offer for VIP Members of The Asunción Times, Libre D is offering a 20% discount on all – whenever you show your VIP Member Card – one of many VIP Member Benefits. Additionally, spend more than 250K Guaraníes (~31 USD) in one transaction, and the discount increases to 30% off! To redeem this exclusive discount, VIP members must show their VIP membership card when making a payment.
For more information about Libre D‘s, you can look at the company’s page on Instagram.
