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69 episodes with ali cayne
Here's the latest CPG news happening right now on February 3rd, 2025 including Trump Tariff Delays, Kehe Summer Show, Legacy Brand Out of Business, and a Valuable Fundraising Workshop worth attending The leaders of Canada and Mexico said Monday that the U.S. had agreed to delay tariffs on their countries by at least 30 days. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada will begin implementing a $1.3 billion border plan during the pause. Businesses across North America have been assessing the potential impact of the levies announced by President Donald Trump, as well as possible retaliation. Tariffs on America's biggest trading partners could upend industries from energy to food, beverage, health, and beauty The Kehe Summer Show will be held February 4-5 at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, AZ. Expect many buyers and emerging brands to be there as usual. Applications are of course closed since the show starts tomorrow, but never too late as a buyer to go, see the latest and greatest, and submit orders in the spot on the show floor Alison Cayne, Founder of Haven's Kitchen, a brand that has had longevity in the better for you sauce category, has unfortunately ceased operations effective February 1st, 2025.Ali Cayne wrote on her Linkedin Post: "This is a tough post to write. Haven's Kitchen is ceasing operations today. There's a lot I'd like to say, and a lot of thoughts that haven't formed into coherent sentences yet. They will come. For now, though, nothing feels as important as thanking the incredible people I've had the privilege of working with over the past several years. From a brilliant, hilarious team, to supportive and gracious investors, to retail, marketing, finance, and manufacturing partners that felt more on the boat than off it — I've been a lucky one. " Sign up now for Jeff Church's 3 Day FREE Virtual 3-Day CPG Fundraising Workshop. Learn how Jeff scaled Suja beyond $100M through fundraising to grow the business.
TikTok and why I think brands need to contribute on the client-side in some way. Shout out to Ali Cayne and Haven's Kitchen for tackling in a very brand-appropriate way.
Sashee Chandran is the founder and CEO of Tea Drops, the organic, ground leaf teas that dissolve into your cup - no bag or infuser needed. On this episode of ITS, Sashee and Ali talk about sales channels and alignment - not every product makes sense in every channel, and every product has a few channels that really make sense. They also chat subscription, why it can be huge for a brand, but why it also requires more attention than you think.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!In The Sauce is Powered by Simplecast.
Margaret Wishingrad is Co-Founder and CEO of Three Wishes, the cereal that is revolutionizing breakfast aisles in grocery stores across the US. On this episode of ITS, Margaret tells Ali how Three Wishes is building through grocery stores, optimizing organic marketing rather than ads, and focusing on one very basic consumer change.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!In The Sauce is Powered by Simplecast.
Lola Adeyemi is Founder of "It’s Souper” a line of Afro-Fusion Soups & Sauces currently sold online and in Canada. On this episode of ITS, Lola and Ali talk about the beginning: What is it really like to go from idea to product to sales and why confidence is not about bravado but about trust in what you're building.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!In The Sauce is Powered by Simplecast.
Monisha Khushalani is CFO at Hu Products, the better for you snacks company known for their chocolate bars and hunks. On this epiosode of ITS, Monisha walks Ali through the finance piece of the puzzle: Accounting, modeling, cash flow, and more. And Monisha should know, she has led 3 companies through aquistions by the CPG "Big Guys," including Sir Kensington's sale to Unilever and Mondalez's recent purchase of Hu. Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!In The Sauce is Powered by Simplecast.
Marissa Dobbins and Courtnie Beceiro are the General Manager and Brand Director at Haven's Kitchen. With Ali on vacation this week, the two of them take over ITS to talk about their experience leaving Fresh Direct to build a start up, their management styles, and how to work with a Founder (hint: learn how to say "no" to them...).Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!In The Sauce is Powered by Simplecast.
Sana Javeri Kadri is the Founder of Diaspora Co., the spice company on a mission to decolonize the spice trade. Sana started Diaspora in 2017 to create a radically new vision of how American consumers buy Indian spices. On this episode of ITS, Sana and Ali discuss appropriation versus appreciation and the power of ethical sourcing.HRN will be donating 10% of our membership drive proceeds from now until June 15 to the Philando Castile Relief Foundation. Visit heritageradionetwork.org/donate to make your gift.Image courtesy of Aubrie Pick.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Sylvie Charles is Founder and CEO of Just Date Syrup, the squeeze bottles of the pure, delicious sugar substitute made with Organic, California dates. On this episode of ITS, Sylvie shares the path that took her from medical school, through a major back injury, to building a chutney company and finally landing on Just Date. Life rarely goes the way we plan, Sylvie and Ali's conversation is focused on how to adjust to new realities, make thoughtful plans and ultimately build something sweet.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Phillip Rivers is founder and CEO of Go Tetra, a messaging agency that specializes in email marketing. On today's episode of ITS, Phil and Ali talk about email marketing, why it's re-emerging as an important communications channel, why it often remains underused, and how businesses can hit the sweet spot of consistent communication without annoying their consumers.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Gabi Lewis and Greg Sewitz are the founders of Magic Spoon,the high protein, low carb cereal that has pretty much changed cereal forever. They've also been friends and business partners since college and Magic Spoon is their second company together. On this episode of ITS, Ali talks with Gabi and Greg about how founders can prepare themselves for the new reality of the Coronavirus.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Miyoko Schinner is founder and CEO of Miyoko’s Kitchen, the plant-based cheese and butter company that is changing dairy aisles in grocery stores across the country. A long time vegetarian, Miyoko has led her company to 15,000 retail stores, making it one of the fastest growing alternative dairy companies in the country. On this episode of ITS, Miyoko tells Ali her story, with all the bumps and bruises along the way, and shares the wisdom she's accumulated over years of being in the sauce. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Zachary DeAngelo is founder and CEO of RodeoCPG. He is a career entrepreneur who has worked in every area of CPG. RODEO is a consultancy that provides operations and sales teams to emerging brands that want to stay lean. On this episode of ITS, Zach and Ali talk about it all: from production and distribution to the changing landscape of sales and marketing.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Mac and Drew Anderson are co-founders of Cleveland Kraut – those big, beautiful bags of raw, fermented, crunchy sauerkraut taking over store shelves everywhere. On this episode of ITS, the brothers tell Ali the story of Cleveland Kraut, how siblings (and a brother in law) may actually be perfect cofounders, and how they learned early what it takes to grow successfully.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
TerraCycle is an innovative recycling company that has become a global leader in sustainability and recycling. On this episode of ITS, Ali interviews Wendy Sherman and Stephanie Moses. They discuss the origins of Terracycle and LOOP, true sustainability, and how brands can reduce the impact of their products on the environment.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Bill Creelman is Founder of Spindrift – America's first sparkling water made with real squeezed fruit. Spindrift is available in 10k stores across the US and it's sales have grown 1,000 percent over the past 36 months, making it one of Inc. magazine’s fastest-growing companies. On this episode of ITS, Bill explains his governing principle, "simplify to amplify" to Ali. The decisions Bill has made, the team he's built and the product itself all reflect Bill's discipline and belief that simple is is not only beautiful but profitable too.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Lindsey Boyd is co-founder of the Laundress, the company that’s been elevating laundry with nontoxic cleaning products since 2004, and was acquired by Unilever in 2019. On this episode of ITS, Ali asks Lindsey all about how she and her co-founder Gwen held on to their commitment to core customers and higher-quality ingredients as they expanded across the globe, and how the Laundress was an early example of content commerce, powerful brand partnerships and experiential retail.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Loren Brill is founder and CEO of Sweet Loren’s, known for its delicious clean-label cookie dough. On this eposode of ITS, Ali and Loren talk about the slow and steady ramp to Sweet Loren’s best year yet, as the company just ranked #114 in Inc. 500 and Loren was chosen as one of Inc.’s 2019 Female Founders. Overnight success often takes years, and Loren's story is not to be missed.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Marco Canora and Andrew Garner are the force behind Brodo – the fresh bone broth that jumpstarted the broth trend in 2014. That winter, Marco opened a little window next to his award-winning restaurant Hearth, in the East Village. Soon after, Andrew came to Brodo as its CEO. On this episode of ITS, Ali speaks with Marco and Andrew about how the relationship came to be, how it works now, and what Brodo is up to in 2020.The holiday season is all about food and community. There’s no better time to show your support for food radio by becoming a member! Lend your voice and help HRN continue to spreading the message of equitable, sustainable, and delicious food – together, we can change minds and build a better food system. Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate today to become a crucial part of the HRN community.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
James Richardson is the founder of Premium Growth Solutions, a strategic planning consultancy for early stage CPG brands. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Dr. Richardson talk strategy: why it's critical, how it protects founders (sometimes from themselves), what the critical elements of a good strategy are, and how a one-line competitive strategic statement can literally make the difference between a good company and a great one.The holiday season is all about food and community. There’s no better time to show your support for food radio by becoming a member! Lend your voice and help HRN continue to spreading the message of equitable, sustainable, and delicious food – together, we can change minds and build a better food system. Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate today to become a crucial part of the HRN community.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Federico Muyshondt is Chief Customer Officer at Chobani and master of all things marketing and sales. On this episode of ITS, Fed breaks down the basics of selling a product to the customer (not to be confused with the consumer!) There are so many brands out there, and while many are leaning into direct to consumer and selling on Amazon, most brands are coming to realize that good old fashioned stores are a critical key to growth.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Kheedim Oh is the founder of Mama O's Kimchi, the brand that took the staple Korean fermented condiment and made it mainstream. On this episode of ITS, Kheedim tells Ali how he's built Mama O's from the ground up — starting with $50 and a skateboard to sellingo n Whole Foods shelves across the U.S. They discuss educating retail buyers and consumers about kimchi, and everything he's learned along the way. And yes, Mama O's is named after Kheedim's mama.Join Heritage Radio Network on Monday, November 11th, for a raucous feast to toast a decade of food radio. Our tenth anniversary bacchanal is a rare gathering of your favorite chefs, mixologists, storytellers, thought leaders, and culinary masterminds. We’ll salute the inductees of the newly minted HRN Hall of Fame, who embody our mission to further equity, sustainability, and deliciousness. Explore the beautiful Palm House and Yellow Magnolia Café, taste and imbibe to your heart’s content, and bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and tasty gifts for any budget at our silent auction. Tickets available now at heritageradionetwork.org/gala.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Laura Davis Gross is the co -founder and CEO of Family Meal, a creative and marketing cooperative that helps emerging brands craft their stories, find their audiences and build their businesses.On this episode of ITS, Laura breaks down brand, marketing, messaging and listening. She and Ali discuss how to use consumer feedback to build trust with consumers and create an organic consumer base that holds fast and returns again and again.Join Heritage Radio Network on Monday, November 11th, for a raucous feast to toast a decade of food radio. Our tenth anniversary bacchanal is a rare gathering of your favorite chefs, mixologists, storytellers, thought leaders, and culinary masterminds. We’ll salute the inductees of the newly minted HRN Hall of Fame, who embody our mission to further equity, sustainability, and deliciousness. Explore the beautiful Palm House and Yellow Magnolia Café, taste and imbibe to your heart’s content, and bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and tasty gifts for any budget at our silent auction. Tickets available now at heritageradionetwork.org/gala.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Jordana Kier is the co-founder of LOLA, the first lifelong brand for a woman’s body. On this episode of ITS, Jody and Ali talk about the MUSTS of building an online-only, subscription-based brand. They discuss research, focus groups. and why Lola communicates with its consumers way differently than the X feminine care brands (Tampax, Playtex, Kotex)In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Mike Messersmith is the US General Manager at Oatly - the oatmilk company that soared to popularity so quickly it literally created a black market. On this episode of ITS, Mike shares his wisdom on all things operations, innovation, business strategy, sales and hiring. And also how he handled the great oat milk drought of 2018. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Erin Patinkin is co-founder and CEO of Ovenly, one of NY’s top-rated bakeries. Ovenly is on everyone's list best bakeries in New York City and Erin has been recognized as one of New York’s most “badass women” in food as well as “one to watch.” On this episode of In the Sauce, Erin and Ali break down the capital needs of a good, old fashioned start up. They also discuss Ovenly’s “open” hiring practices, and how businesses at their best should influence positive social change. Photo by Erica Schroeder In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
This week Packing Taste host Axel Brave is sitting down with Ali Cayne of Haven’s Kitchen. Haven's Kitchen is a cooking school, café, venue, creative agency, and social hub in New York City. They also have a line of sauces as well, all of it revolving around one goal: Empower people through innovative food experiences. Learn more about Ali: https://havenskitchen.com/about-havens Learn more about Haven's Kitchen Sauces: https://havenskitchen.com/sauces.htmlFollow Axel and the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/packingtastepodcast/Guest: Ali Cayne Host: Axel BraveProducer: Myrriah GossettAudio/Video Engineer: Jake WallaceA Founding Media Production - http://foundingmedia.comAltered Music from https://filmmusic.io:"Too Cool" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)Licence: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Emily Schildt is the Founder of Pop Up Grocer, a traveling pop-up grocery store, showcasing hundreds of products from the most innovative and exciting natural food brands today. With over 10 years of experience in marketing, Emily helps companies with messaging and architecture, content strategy, production, influencer programs and ad campaigns. On this episode of In the Sauce, Emily and Ali talk about what it takes for a brand to truly distinguish itself, how Emily imagined Pop Up Grocer, and why whatever she touches feels a little like magic. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Matt Bachmann is the Co-Founder of Wandering Bear Cold Brew, a business he started with his friend Ben Gordon while the two were at Columbia business school in 2014. Now available online and in stores in all 50 states, Wandering Bear started with direct to office sales, heading into retail stores only after Matt and Ben knew they were onto something. On this episode of In the Sauce, Matt and Ali talk about building the business strategically, the importance of omnichannel distribution in a crowded category, and the entrepreneurial addiction to adrenaline.Wandering bears never sleep. And neither do founders. It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Lauren Nedelman is Founder of Super Marketers, a marketing company based in the Northeast focused on demos, events and pop ups. On this episode of In the Sauce, Courtnie (Haven's Field Marketing Manager) and Lauren take a deep dive into demos: Why they're more important than ever for emerging brands, how to do them successfully, how to make a solid demo plan, and how to evaluate their impact. It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
David Karr is Co-Founder and Chief Brand Cebador of Guayaki Yerba Mate, an organic, fair trade beverage company that has been thriving since 1996. On this episode of In the Sauce, David and Ali sip mate from a gourd and talk about the power that businesses have to make the world a better place. It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Tessa Price leads programming for WeWork Food Labs, which is both a workspace and an accelerator for early stage food entrepreneurs. Previously, she was the Director of Operations and Community for the failed shared kitchen startup, Pilotworks. Tessa and Ali discuss what founders can learn from the breakdown of Pilot Works, and how to build thoughtfully in an era of "entrepreneurship worship." It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Jean Brownhill is the Founder and CEO of Sweeten, a free, award-winning service that pairs homeowners to contractors for major renovation projects. In 2015 Jean was one of only 11 African American female entrepreneurs to raise more than $1M in venture capital and to date, Sweeten has a more than $1 billion of construction projects. On this episode of In the Sauce, Jean tells Ali her story and shares wisdom on everything from leadership to fundraising to building in a heavily male-dominated industry. It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Hawa Hassan is the Founder and CEO of Basbaas Sauce, a line of condiments inspired by her country of origin, Somalia. Born in the capital city of Mogadishu, Hawa came to the U.S. as a refugee at the age of 7. After a successful career as a model, Hawa started Basbaas. On this episode of In the Sauce, Hawa tells Alison her incredible story and they discuss the ups and downs of, you guessed it, being in the sauce. It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Allison Marchesani Ackerman is a brand strategy and digital marketing consultant based in New York. After 4 years at Sir Kensington's, she decided to set out on her own to work with small, growing brands in the natural foods industry. On this episode of In the Sauce, Allison and Ali talk about how an emerging brand can build a communications strategy that guides them, speaks to consumers, and doesn't cost 6 months of sales. It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Jordan Salcito is the Founder and CEO of DRINK RAMONA, an organic canned wine spritz with a cult-like following. On this episode of In the Sauce, Jordan and Ali talk about recreating a category, making a product that is both quality and accessible and creating a brand that people love. It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Sarah Foley is Managing Director at SWAT Equity Partners, an early-stage venture capital firm focused on investing in emerging consumer brands. She sources deals, does diligence, structures investments, and monitors them along the way. On this episode of In the Sauce, Sarah and Ali talk about venture capital: the difference between "rounds," what valuation is all about, and how the landscape of venture may be shifting as we speak. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Agatha Kluk is the co-Founder of Kluk Farber, a boutique law firm that represents entrepreneurs, companies, investors and creatives across a variety of industries including consumer products, tech, and hospitality. On this episode of In the Sauce, Agatha talks Ali through the legal stuff: contracts, fundraising, compliance, trademarks and more. Don't miss a live podcast taping featuring Ali (and her special guest Jeni Britton Bauer of Jeni's Ice Cream) and other HRN hosts at Haven's Kitchen on Monday, June 3rd. Get your tickets here. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Anita Sheperd is the Founder & CEO of Anita’s Coconut Yogurt. Known for a clean label and proprietary probiotic blend with over 300 billion live cultures per serving, Anita’s is the OG coconut yogurt and has faced its share of challenges as it's scaled to meet growing demand. On this episode of In the Sauce, Anita and Ali talk candidly about the challenges of growing BIG, trying not to compromise and staying real with consumers. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Jess Conroy is the Founder and CEO of Carats and Cake, a wedding planning platform that delivers personal wedding advice to couples. On this episode of In the Sauce, Jess talks Ali through the leadership lessons she's learned since founding C&C in 2013. They discuss Jess' monthly leadership emails which cover everything from the Tyranny of the Urgent to the Casualty of Being too Casual. Leadership isn't quite as intuitive as it may seem. It's a muscle and needs the right exercise. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Rachel Simons is the Co-Founder and CEO of Seed + Mill, America’s first sesame concept store and producer of a range of products made from sesame seeds, including halva, tahini soft-serve, a range of spices and everyone's favorite tahini. On this episode of In the Sauce, Rachel and Ali flip things around, and Rachel interviews Ali on all things sauce: what's been happening with the team, what some of the challenges have been a long the way, and what's next. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Becca Parrish is the founder of Becca, the creative marketing agency behind mega brands like Health-ade, Casa Dragones, Le Bernadin, the Polo Bar and many, many more. On this episode of In the Sauce, Becca and Ali explore how a brand makes itself known and stays relevant in a sea of choices. They talk brand DNA, the rules around an elevator pitch, and Becca's biggest pet peeve. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Trinity Mouzon Wofford is the Co-Founder and CEO of Golde, a wellness brand that got its start with beautiful pouches of tonic powders and is launching a line of face masks this week. On this episode of In the Sauce, Trinity and Ali discuss sales channels, the power of independent stores, Golde's move into Sephora and why Trinity believes in building with wholesale partners instead of focusing on direct to consumer. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Cathryn Woodruff is the Director of Communications at Banza, the chickpea pasta company currently flying off the shelves. On this episode of In the Sauce, Cathryn and Ali break down the elements of communications, PR and marketing. They discuss brand voice, authenticity, storytelling and why, as Cathryn put it, it's critical to "act like a human. Not a brand." In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
John Lawson is the Northeast regional grocery buyer at Whole Foods Market. On this episode of In the Sauce, John tells Ali what he's looking for in emerging brands, what mistakes we can avoid, how to work with buyers to maximize sales and why we should see shelf space as a vote of confidence and an investment, but not the end-goal. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Raquel Tavares is the Founder and CEO of Fourth and Heart, the ghee company that has become a household name since they launched in 2015. On this episode of In the Sauce, Raquel and Ali discuss consumer education, product innovation, selling on Amazon and how Raquel built a killer brand. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Grace Lachona is a Supplier Development Manager for UNFI NEXT, the program that mega distributor, UNFI, created to curate and incubate emerging brands. On this episode of In the Sauce, Grace and Ali talk about distribution, the numbers, how and when to open new distribution centers in new regions and how to avoid potential mistakes. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Michael Kirban is the Founder and CEO of VitaCoco, the brand that brought coconut water to the US in 2004, and is now the global market leader, selling in hundreds of thousands of store here and abroad. On this episode of In the Sauce, Mike and Ali talk about the journey and lessons learned along the way: From selling cases bodega to bodega on his rollerblades, through Coke's acquisition of his biggest competitor, to now, as Vita continues to innovate and grow through acquisitions of other beverage brands. Photo Courtesy of Chris Gregory In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Homa Dashtaki is the Founder of White Moustache, a yogurt company with a cult-like following and a waitlist of over thirty retailers. On this episode of In the Sauce, Homa and Ali talk about authenticity and scale: Can they coexist? What gets sacrificed when you grow? What about when you don't grow? And again...how it always comes back to an amazing product. Photo Courtesy of Nicole Franzen In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Dawn Techow is Cofounder of Relish Food Project, an outsourced CFO for emerging CPG food companies. On this episode of In the Sauce, Dawn and Ali talk about MONEY: Everything from accounting and bookkeeping, to what you need to know and clean up before you go out and try to raise capital. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Carmel Hagan and Denise Woodard are the Founders of Supernatural, a clean baking pantry staple company (think natural sprinkles and coconut sugar) and Partake Foods, delicious cookies that also happen to be free from the top 8 allergens. On this episode of In the Sauce, Ali asks Carmel and Denise about their entrepreneurship journeys: Why and How they each founded their own company, lessons they've learned, and how #femalefounders tend to think a bit differently from our male counterparts. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
David Mawhinney is the Founder of Franklin+Emily, a design forward children's furniture brand. He's also the former chef at Haven's Kitchen and before that, an accountant. On this episode of In the Sauce, David and Ali talk about taking the leap, following your gut and the things that need to be in place before you go out on your own. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Gracie Dulik is the Director of Sales at MatchaBar, a Brooklyn-based matcha tea company. On this episode of In the Sauce, Gracie and Ali talk about sales strategy, the process and challenges of opening distribution centers, building the right sales team and more. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Pat Jammet is a bit of a legend in the world of product marketing. After starting his career at Honest Tea, Pat took on Field Marketing at Sir Kensington's, eventually becoming VP of Marketing there. On this episode of In the Sauce, Pat and Ali talk about what founders should be thinking after the push onto the shelves: There's gotta be a team dedicated to the PULL off the shelves by happy consumers. That means demonstrations, coupons, and sampling wherever a potential consumer can be found. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Lauren Jupiter is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of AccelFoods, an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in consumer products. On this episode of In the Sauce, Lauren and Ali talk about how, why, and when companies should raise outside capital, what investors are looking for, and how founders can build a smart foundation so that when they go out to raise money, their financial ducks are in a row. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Hannah Bronfman is a multi-hyphenate DJ, wellness guru, founder of HBFit, and now, author. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Hannah talk about non-traditional routes to building businesses — how to take your stengths and the things that give you joy and build on them — to create brands and experineces that people want and need. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Sierra Tishgart and Maddy Moelis met at summer camp 20 years ago and are now the Co-Founders of Great Jones, a kitchen company that launched a line of cookware two weeks ago. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali, Maddy and Sierra talk about how to start a business with a friend: What to look for in a partner, how to organize the workload, and most importantly, how to preserve the friendship. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Chris Psuik is Vice President at Dora's Naturals, a DSD (direct store delivery) distributor that distributes brands like GT Kombucha, Remedy Organics, Matchabar and Harmless Harvest. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Chris talk about how a brand can work more effectively with its distributor and what mistakes growing food companies should try to avoid — They're joined by Sean (also from Dora's) and Courtnie (Haven's Market Manager) to talk about grocery buyers, categories, promotional schedules and the road to success. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Amy Stern is the Director of Operations at Chloe's Fruit, a frozen snack brand found in 10,000 grocery stores nationwide. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Amy talk about supply chain and operations — what Amy refers to as "making the pops and moving the pops" — Amy shares advice about working with suppliers, having a deep understanding of your ingredients, and how to choose a co-packer. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Jesse Derris is the founder and CEO of Derris, a full-service brand strategy and communications agency headquartered in New York City. He is also the founder and managing member of Amity Supply, which invests in and supports early-stage consumer brands, and an advisor-in-residence at the Columbia University Entrepreneurship Program. Jesse and Ali talk about purpose: Why a company exists beyond making money and how that WHY gets translated into branding and communications. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Scott Norton is the Co-Founder of Sir Kensington's, the condiment company that took the world by storm in 2010 and was acquired by Unilever last year. In this episode of In the Sauce, Scott and Ali talk Culture: Why it's more than a ping pong table and some bean bags; why people are at the heart of all great businesses; how to create value for your team, and how even if you haven't formally codified your company's values, be mindful, you are communicating them. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Alex Ingalls is the Founder of Pilot Kombucha, a business she founded in 2015. Alex has leapt from a one-woman making, bottling and delivering process to a full production facility and three distributors. All to keep up with rapidly growing demnd. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Alex talk about distinguishing yourself in a growing category, responsible expansion, and the balancing act of entrepreneurship. Plus, Ali finally learns what a SCOBY is. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Gertrude Allen is CEO of Pet-Plate, a direct to consumer pet food business, as well as an investor, brand-builder and operator. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Gertrude get down to brass tacks about all things fundraising. Gertrude breaks down when it's time to move from friends and family to angels and early stage institutional investors, the key metrics those investors will be looking for as they evaluate your business, and what founders should be looking for as they evaluate opportunities. In The Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Kiki Von Glinow is Founder of Toast Media Group, a consultancy that helps brands with digital growth as well as social media strategy and management. After 6 years at HuffPost, first as a journalist, then leading programming, digital analytics and email marketing, Kiki went out on her own to demystify it all for her clients. Kiki and Ali discuss everything Instagram: From the infamous algorithm to what makes good content, who's doing it right, what the future of digital looks like and, most importantly, why a brand MUST know it's audience. Intimately. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Kara Posner is an attorney with The Giannuzzi Group, a law firm that specializes in growing, scalable consumer brands. Kara and her team are the attorneys who helped Ali and Katie set up Haven's Kitchen Sauces, creating the LLC, helping negotiate distribution contracts, writing equity agreements, and more. Kara and Ali discuss all things LEGAL: What founders should keep in mind as they build, issues about ownership, trademarking, contracts with service providers, and the importance of "papering" everything. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Mitch Rubin is the Program Specialist for the Chobani Incubator, a four-month program that helps emerging food brands with everything from manufacturing and packaging, to marketing and brand strategy. The Incubator, which gives its participants an equity-free 25K grant, was created by Chobani's founder, Hamdi Ulukaya, as part of the company's mission to bring better food to more people. Mitch and Ali talk about the non-negotiables of being a successful, values-driven food business, why the team is critical, some red flags for challenger brands, and of course, what the Chobani Incubator is looking for in its applicants. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Ann Yang is a co-founder of Misfit Juicery, a juice company that turns what would be wasted fruits and vegetables into delicious juice. Ann and her co-founder Phil started Misfit out of a dorm kitchen at Georgetown and now, a few years later, distribute juice up and down the East Coast. Ann and Ali talk about mission-driven CPG's: How financial and social profits can mutually coexist; how important it is to find the right funders; and how important a WHY is for any emerging brand. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast.
Alex Stikeleather is a freelance graphic designer and the artist behind the Haven's Kitchen Sauces pouch design. After graduating from SVA and four years at Pentagram, where she worked on branding for the Wing, Alex went out on her own to help brands tell their story through design. Alex and Ali discuss how they worked together to refresh the HK logo and make it packaged-good friendly, the importance of visual branding, and why bringing a designer in early is a good idea for emerging CPGs. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Courtnie Beceiro and Charlotte Myer are buyers at Fresh Direct and Foodkick. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali askes them all about the future of grocery shopping, what they're looking for in emerging brands and what they do with all the dozens of samples they receive every week. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Taryn Langer is Founder and President of Moxie Communications Group, the PR powerhouse that helped launch startups like Casper and Dollar Shave Club. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Taryn discuss the importance of a clear brand story: Why is your product better? Who or what are you challenging and how? Taryn shares some failure stories, some incredible advice, and even gives Ali a bit of therapy. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Derrick Quandt is Director of Operations at Banza, the best selling, gluten-free pasta company. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Katie discuss supply chain and logistics with Derrick and get his advice about hiring their third employee. They discuss the importance of building systems and tracking everything as the business grows, along with the Banza philosophy: Set a long term goal, be flexible in the short term, and never, ever give up.In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
Camilla Marcus has been a lawyer, chef, consultant, investor, one-time college admissions officer and founder. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali asks her all about how her experiences have culminated with the founding of Westbourne, a social enterprise, all day cafe in Soho. They discuss the four golden pillars of entrepreneurship: Product, Market, Founder, Fit, and the difference between having a plan and having a strategy. Camilla's number one thought when it comes to building a team? Be a #talentmagnet. In the Sauce is powered by Simplecast
At a very difficult moment in her life, just as this mother of 5 was getting divorced, Ali Cayne poured her energy into creating an beautiful alternate universe that consisted of a cafe, cooking school and event space in New York City. She called it Haven's Kitchen, a haven for her and the community she nurtures. And she says her business saved her. Listen to this episode of Speaking Broadly to hear Ali's story of going from an impromptu entrepreneur to a bad ass babe boss. Also on the show, a conversation with Denise Cerreta, the founder of One World, Everybody Eats. Cerreta was named James Beard Foundation's Humanitarian of the Year in 2016 for pioneering work that addresses food insecurity by helping people replicate a pay-as-you-go cafe model.
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