Vernon Alexander Jr. and Frank Azarelo III are best friends of more than 30 years whose bond began as teammates and captains of their football team, built on leadership, trust, and teamwork. Those same values continue to shape the culture behind Shake & Bake today. Off the field, they discovered a shared love for trading cards, comic books, video games, and collectible toys, spending their childhood building collections, competing, and trading favorites — a passion that would later grow into a community-centered vision. Both went on to play collegiate football and developed strong interests in sports performance, exercise, and rehabilitation. Frank Azarelo III served in the United States Air Force, completing two tours in the Middle East before earning a Master’s Degree in Exercise Science and Physiology. He now works as a Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor, focused on improving mental and physical well-being and building strong, motivated communities. Vernon Alexander Jr. faced a defining moment during his freshman year of college when a serious knee injury threatened to end his football career. For many, it would have been the final chapter. Instead, Vernon chose resilience. Through relentless rehabilitation, discipline, and a determination to prove he could return, he came back stronger than ever. That experience inspired him to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Today, he works as a Physical Therapist in Olathe, helping others overcome setbacks, rebuild confidence, and reach their full potential. Despite being separated by more than 1,000 miles, their friendship and passion for the hobby never faded. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they reconnected through collecting and began brainstorming something bigger.