Podcasts about cpg

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, we're joined by David Istier, Founder and CEO of gutzy Organic—the functional food brand on a mission to close America's massive fiber gap and bring gut health to the forefront of wellness. With only 5% of Americans meeting the recommended daily fiber intake, David is leading the charge with clean, convenient snacks that make it easy—and enjoyable—to take care of your gut.In our conversation, David shares the inspiration behind launching gutzy, his journey from helping scale GoGo SqueeZ into a billion-dollar brand, and what it takes to build a food company that's not just trendy but truly transformative. We explore the science behind prebiotic acacia fiber, the importance of functional food in public health, and how gutzy is helping shift cultural attitudes about digestive health—one pouch at a time. He also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of educating consumers, staying mission-aligned, and scaling smart in a competitive category.Whether you're a wellness-focused consumer, a founder in the CPG space, or someone who cares about what goes into your body—this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Now on The Kara Goldin Show. Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at karagoldin@gmail.com. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about David Istier and gutzy Organic:https://www.gutzyorganic.com/https://www.instagram.com/gutzyorganic/https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidistierhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/gutzyorganic Sponsored By:Square - Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/karagoldinACORNS. Head to acorns.com/KARA or download the Acorns app to start saving and investing for your future today! Check out our website to view this episode's show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/687

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Damiano Messineo, founder of Loopini, a revolutionary brand reimagining pizza through the power of the ancient lupini bean. From his childhood obsession with pizza to launching a premium, protein-packed frozen pizza line made in Italy, Damiano shares his flavorful journey of turning tradition into innovation.He walks us through the lupini bean's history—from Roman legions to Mayan civilization—and how this under-the-radar superfood is redefining the frozen aisle. Damiano also talks about sourcing ingredients straight from Naples, the importance of clean Italian flour, and the art of crafting a delicious, healthy pizza that still tastes indulgent. You'll hear insights on launching at Fancy Foods, navigating international supply chains, and the role of community in early-stage growth.Tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Origin of Loopini PizzaWhat Makes Loopini UniqueStartup Growth & Product TestingChallenges & Supply Chain RealitiesRetail & Pricing StrategyDirect-to-Consumer (DTC) EffortsCommunity & Startup CPG SupportEpisode Links:Website: https://eatloopini.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiano-messineo-53354018a/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Aaron Nosbisch is the founder and CEO of BRĒZ, a cannabis social tonic beverage designed as an alcohol alternative that offers a euphoric, feel-good effect without the downsides of alcohol. He built his expertise in e-commerce from an early age, launching multiple internet brands and scaling previous ventures like MONQ (portable aromatherapy diffuser, 0 to $15 million in three years as CMO), and running Lucyd Media, the world's largest cannabis social advertising agency, which run 80% of meta ads for the cannabis space.In this episode, Aaron and Blaine explore how BRĒZ identified untapped demand, iterated their product to solve a genuine founder problem, and brought it to market with precision: leveraging lean startup methodology, subscription-first landing pages, micro-batch production, effective founder-led UGC creative, and meticulous customer service. They discuss cash flow realities, funding first runs, the role of retention in beverage DTC, and how direct-to-consumer momentum powers retail expansion and shelf velocity. Aaron also shares transparent insights on ad spend, internal ops, and the principles that fuel brand growth.Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:1. Pillars of a Successful DTC Brand2. Challenges of Scaling Beverages DTC3. Early Stage Funding and Resources Management4. Supply Chain Processes in Product Launches5. Team Building, Finding the Right Partners6. Pre-Launch and Launch Strategies7. Testing and Iterating Ad Campaigns8. Founder-Led Content in Advertising 9. Guerrilla Strategies for Audience and List Building10. Media Buying, Optimizing CAC, and Scaling Spend11. Building AOV, Subscription, and Retention12. Customer Feedback and Iteration Cycles13. Importance of Timing and Market ReadinessTimestamps00:00 Introducing Aaron and BRĒZ05:06 The “alcohol alternative” white space and product vision13:21 Launching a DTC beverage: initial capital and inventory20:32 Validating demand, managing resource constraints25:44 First ads and sales: founder content, guerilla tactics34:07 Early CACs, ad budgets, and optimizing for LTV38:22 E-commerce vs retail: channel mix and growth phases46:50 Key takeaways & where to follow Aaron and BRĒZShow notes powered by CastmagicPast guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  Additional episodes you might like:• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands-----Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?Check out our newsletter here.Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internetOlivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplementCastmagic - AI Workspace for ContentFollow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!DTCPod InstagramDTCPod TwitterDTCPod TikTokAaron Nosbisch - Founder and CEO of BRĒZBlaine Bolus - Co-Founder of CastmagicRamon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, our Editor, Caitlin Bricker, sits down with Ashley Waldman, founder of Jubilee's, a groundbreaking line of flavored milk for kids made with real fruit, hidden vegetables, high protein, and zero added sugar.Jubilee's just won the "Ones to Watch" lightning pitch competition at Beverage Forum!In this episode, Ashley shares the personal story that inspired the brand's creation, including her experience as a parent of a child with autism and her frustration with the lack of nutritious, low-sugar beverage options for children. From working with a professional formulator to pioneering a new approach to sweetening milk with fruits and vegetables, Ashley provides a transparent look into the product development process, the health implications of added sugar, and the early wins that are propelling Jubilee's into retail spaces and onto Amazon.They also explore broader industry trends, the rise of functional and clean-label products, and practical advice for emerging founders in the CPG space.What are you waiting for? Listen now!Listen in as they share about:Founding Story of Jubilee'sProduct Formulation & InnovationParenting & Health ConsciousnessConsumer Trends & Health CultureMarketing & DistributionClean Label & Ingredient AwarenessFounder AdviceEpisode Links:Website: https://drinkjubilees.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyverrill/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode I'm joined by a true pioneer in the world of organic CPG—Matt McLean, the founder of Uncle Matt's Organic.Matt's journey is a masterclass in scaling with integrity. From navigating the complexities of retail and supply chains to staying ahead of evolving consumer trends, Matt has built a mission-driven brand that's not only profitable—but principled. He sold his company to Dean Foods, just to buy it back 2 years later when the acquirer went bankrupt.If you care about sustainability, business leadership, and the real story behind building an iconic brand in a crowded market, this episode is for you.So grab a glass of OJ and let's dive in.Startup to Scale is a podcast by Foodbevy, an online community to connect emerging food, beverage, and CPG founders to great resources and partners to grow their business. Visit us at Foodbevy.com to learn about becoming a member or an industry partner today.

The CPGGUYS are joined in this episode by Vice President of grocery merchandising at Wakefern Food Corp. Jeff is a remarkable example of a pharmacist expert and leader now transformed into an everyday grocery merchant. We were so impressed by his leadership, he is the winner of the DSN (Drug store news) + CPGGGUYS retail merchandiser of the year for 2024! Find Jeff Mondelli on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-mondelli-95a72148/Find Wakefern Food Corp on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/company/wakefern-food-corp-/Find Wakfern Food Corp online at : https://www2.wakefern.com/Here's what we asked him : 1.  You are a rare breed of merchants that have successfully transitioned from pharma to CPG - what did it take and how did you accomplish this?2. How have consumer behaviors and preferences shifted in the post-pandemic world, and what does this mean for CPG brands?3. CPG companies are facing a lot of disruption with e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors. What are the biggest shifts you're seeing in the industry today?4. How do you see the relationship between traditional retail and CPG evolving over the next 5 years?5. What advice do you have for CPG companies that are struggling to adapt to the consumer digital-first world?6. How do you think CPG companies can best leverage data and analytics to improve their operations, marketing, and customer engagement?7. What does a best in class partnership with Wakefern look like for a CPG brand?8. What's the best piece of advice you've received during your career, and how did it shape your path?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comCPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.comRhea Raj's Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual's use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Heidi and Ellen are excited to share their wonderful conversation with Rachael Field. Rachael is a renaissance woman who continues to reinvent herself in many exciting ways. She is a television and film producer whose credits include Modern Family, Life In Pieces, LA To Vegas, Outmatched, and the Disney+ Feature Prom Pact. She runs Julie Bowen's, Bowen and Sons production company which encompasses TV, film, podcasts and a pre-teen CPG skincare line JB Skrub. She also recently launched a reiki healing practice.  We talk about all the chapters in Rachael's life as well as the astrological transits that were taking place during the many turning points in her career. Websites:  Rachael Field Reiki: https://www.reikibyrachael.com/ JB Skrub: https://jbskrub.com/ Podcast:  Girls Unscripted https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/girls-unscripted/id1729038270 ________________________________________________________________________________ Do you have a question you'd like featured on the podcast? Send a 1-minute audio and your birth information (date of birth, time, and place) to assistant@heidirose.com. Chart Your Career Instagram: @chartyourcareerpodcast To connect with the hosts, visit: Heidi Rose Robbins, Astrologer & Poet: heidirose.com, IG: @heidiroserobbins Ellen Fondiler, Career & Business Strategist: ellenfondiler.com, IG: @elfondiler  

What if the best way to grow your brand wasn't just about selling, but about educating, empowering, and building real trust with your audience?In this latest episode of Brand Growth Heroes, Fiona Fitz is joined by Sunna van Kampen, the founder of Tonic Health, the UK's fastest-growing vitamin brand. With a run rate of £6M and growing exponentially, Tonic Health is revolutionising the supplement industry, calling out low-dose, sugar-laden vitamins and replacing them with high-potency, plant-based alternatives that actually work.But here's what's really fascinating: Sunna didn't just build a vitamin business, he has built a content machine that has amassed millions of followers on Instagram and TikTok, regularly hitting 50M+ organic views per month. His short, sharp, educational videos don't just sell vitamins; they get people talking, thinking, and making better health choices.In this conversation, Sunna reveals:*How he built a market-leading brand from scratch (despite launching just as COVID shut down retail).*The power of content-first brand building—and why he ignored investors who told him to stop.*The myths and misinformation in the vitamin industry—and why most supplements don't work.*What's next for Tonic Health as they scale at lightning speed?- Tune in, take notes, and get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about vitamins, content, and brand growth. Useful links:Tonic Health WebsiteConnect with Sunna on LinkedInConnect with Tonic Health on LinkedInInstagram=============================================================Thanks to Brand Growth Heroes' podcast sponsor - Joelson, the commercial law firm=============================================================If you're a founder, you already know how much of your energy goes into building the perfect product, creating standout branding and connecting with your consumers.But don't forget that scaling a CPG business also comes with a maze of legal complexities that can make or break your business journey. From contracts, term sheets and regulatory compliance to protecting your brand's intellectual property as you expand, it's essential to get it right.And that starts with the right legal partner.So we're thrilled to introduce Joelson, a leading commercial law firm that specialises in guiding the founders of scaling CPG brands, as Brand Growth Heroes' sponsor.With long-term relationships with clients like Little Moons, Trip, Eat Natural, Bear Graze, and Pulsin, Joelson is also famous for advising the innocent founders in their landmark sale to Coca-Cola! As a female team, we are especially impressed by Joelson's commitment to championing female founders in CPG.Not many law firms are also BCorps, nor do they specialise in helping founders navigate the legal challenges of scaling without stifling the creativity and momentum that got you here in the first place. So thanks, Joelson—we're delighted to have you on board.If you'd like to get in touch to find out more, why don't you drop them a line at hello@joelsonlaw.com!==============================================A BIG/SMALL favour: If this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, please could you click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review?This small gesture from you means the world to us and allows us to share these nuggets of insight and value with you more often.You won't want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth.Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us on our Brand Growth Heroes socials: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.Thanks to our Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS. (04:12) - Fiona - Tonic Health - Audio - Main.1

Ashley Thompson is the co-founder and CEO of Mush, the ready-to-eat overnight oats brand redefining breakfast. After earning a degree in math and economics from Columbia, Ashley began her career as a trader at Goldman Sachs. But after three years on Wall Street, she left finance behind to chase a bigger mission: building Mush. Since then, she's grown Mush into a multimillion-dollar brand with nationwide distribution. Along the way, she pitched Mush on Shark Tank and landed a deal with Mark Cuban. Through relentless focus, getting early consumer feedback, and her personal connection to wellbeing, Ashely has built a category-defining brand.Where to find She Leads:Apple PodcastsWebsiteSpotifyYouTubeInstagramX (Twitter)Where to find Carly:LinkedInX (Twitter)Where to find Ashley:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-thompson-50888626/Referenced:Columbia University: https://www.columbia.eduGoldman Sachs: https://www.goldmansachs.comMark Cuban: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-cuban-06a0751bMush: https://www.eatmush.comPublix: https://www.publix.comTimestamps:(2:57) Ashley's childhood(6:54) The surprising childhood creations(9:54) How mental health influenced the journey(17:16) The early years at Goldman Sachs(25:41) Why overnight oats?(29:39) It's important to quit(34:35) What drew Ashley to San Diego(36:59) Getting early consumer feedback(39:05) Adapting to entrepreneurship(43:37) Winning Whole Foods(48:15) The story of Shark Tank(52:01) Insights into the CPG industry

In this conversation, Jen Brush, VP of Innovation and Product at Guayaki, discusses the origins and benefits of Yerba Mate, the evolution of Guayaki's product offerings, and the brand's commitment to sustainability and community. The conversation explores the challenges of navigating the beverage market, building brand loyalty, and the exciting transition to the new brand name, Yerba Madre, which reflects the company's mission and heritage. We touch on the brand's commitment to shade-grown Yerba Mate, which takes more time and money but yields a better product and is better for the environment than sun-grown Yerba Mate. Jen also shares her personal journey with Lupus and how it influences her perspective on innovation and the food industry. We then wrap up by talking about the growing tea movement and the importance of a people-centric business model in creating a better world. Takeaways:Yerba Mate is a unique, naturally caffeinated leaf with health benefits.Guayaki, now Yerba Madre, prioritizes sustainability and community relationships.The brand aims to make Yerba Mate accessible to all consumers.Product innovation is guided by consumer preferences and market trends.Building brand loyalty is essential for success in a competitive market.The convenience store channel presents new opportunities for growth.Guayaki's, now Yerba Madre's, bright yellow branding helps it stand out on shelves.The company has a strong community of brand ambassadors.The transition to Yerba Madre reflects the brand's evolution and heritage, and aims to enhance brand recognition.Focus on product quality is key to retaining customers.Shade-grown Yerba Mate is better for the environment and flavor.A people-first approach leads to positive business outcomes.The tea industry is experiencing significant growth and innovation.Personal health experiences can shape professional perspectives.Collaboration and partnerships are key to impact initiatives.Continuous improvement is essential in business practices.Community engagement is vital for a better world.Kindness and empathy can create a positive impact. Sound Bites:"Yerba Mate is a naturally caffeinated leaf.""It has both caffeine and theobromine (found in chocolate), and offers a more smooth form of energy with less jitters and less crash. So it's a magical leaf and tree."“My goal is to create products that have a little bit for everyone. If we're going to drive awareness about our brand, our mission – the devotion we have to our people and our Yerba Mate – we want to meet people where they are, right?”“Our Ambassadors are brand loyalties. They'll tell you that Guayaki has changed their life. Not just the products, but the brand and what we've done and where've we've been.”"Yerba Madre means mother herb in Spanish.""The more the merrier in the Yerba Mate category. We want to build a category and we want more people to know about the magic of Yerba Mate.”"She told me to always lead with yes. And she would say, yes is the answer.”"I think a better world really puts people at the center of what you do and how you think. Be kind and empathetic. I think that that trickles down organically.” Links:Jennifer Brush on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-brush-05a8444/Guayaki, now Yerba Madre - https://yerbamadre.com/Yerba Madre on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yerbamadre/Yerba Madre on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@officialyerbamadreYerba Madre on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@drinkyerbamadreYerba Madre on Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/user/OfficialYerbaMadre/Yerba Madre on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/yerba-madre/…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radio Chapters:03:00 - Introduction to Yerba Mate and Guayaki, now Yerba Madre06:05 - The Unique Flavor and Health Benefits of Yerba Mate08:55 - Guayaki's, now Yerba Madre's, Product Evolution and Innovation Strategy12:05 - Navigating the Beverage Market and Retail Challenges15:12 - Building Brand Loyalty and Community Engagement18:02 - The Future of Guayaki: New Branding (Yerba Madre) and Product Launches35:05 - Rebranding and Heritage in Yerba Mate38:31 - Sustainability and Impact Initiatives42:07 - Regenerative Practices and Biodiversity45:09 - People-Centric Business Models52:25 - Personal Insights and Industry Trends60:23 - Advice and Personal Favorites

CPG founders must think on their feet to work around tariff-induced supply chain disruptions, collaborating with co-manufacturers and ingredient suppliers on innovative solutions to business obstacles

Price. Convenience. Taste. Can your brand deliver? Annalea Krebs, founder of Social Nature, joins the show to unpack the brutal balancing act every sustainable CPG founder faces. In a world where consumers demand it all — low prices, easy access, great taste, and environmental impact — building a brand that scales isn't just hard, it's war. With insights from over 3 million product reviews and a decade leading shopper-driven marketing, Annalea shares data-backed strategies for thriving in a high-cost, low-margin, impact-driven industry. A must-listen for founders breaking the old retail rules to build something better.  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff chats with Dana Kim & Sam Kass to unpack what “health” and “sustainability” actually mean to today's consumers.Sam Kass, former White House Chef and food policy advisor to the Obamas, shares behind-the-scenes stories from the West Wing—including what it's really like cooking for the First Family—and how those experiences led to a deep commitment to reshaping our food systems. He dives into the hard truths about sugar, portion sizes, and policy limits, as well as the ambitious mission behind his new venture, PLEZi, to help shift eating habits for the next generation.Dana Kim, founder & CEO of product testing platform Highlight, brings the data. From packaging guilt to sweetener preferences, Dana shares real consumer insights from across the U.S.—what shoppers say they care about vs. what they actually buy, and why brands need to tailor their health and sustainability messages to fit different audiences (Erewhon isn't the whole world!).Together, they explore how brands can build better-for-you products and communicate them effectively—without falling into the greenwashing trap.

Dave sits down with Tina Mehta, former CMO at Chloe's, to explore what it really takes to grow a challenger brand in today's CPG landscape. With a background that also spans powerhouse companies like Mars Chocolate and Chobani, Tina brings deep experience across brand management, shopper marketing, and e-commerce.She shares how her team at Chloe's redefined frozen treats, how to stretch every marketing dollar, and why creativity, cross-functional collaboration, and retail partnerships are key to driving results. Plus, Tina talks AI, brand authenticity, and what it means to move fast in a modern marketing environment.Key Takeaways & Episode HighlightsCareer evolution from Mars to Chobani to Chloe's – Tina walks through her path from global brands to challenger brand leadership, and how each stop shaped her approach to building high-impact marketing teams.Lessons from big-brand e-commerce – At Chobani, Tina helped reposition Instacart as a strategic priority, turning it into a top 10 channel and proving the power of data-driven retail media.How challenger brands stretch budgets – Tina shares the high-ROI tactics that work for mid-size brands, including tightly focused shopper marketing, retail media partnerships, and creative cost-sharing strategies.The role of AI in modern marketing – From ChatGPT to image generation, Tina discusses where AI can unlock speed and efficiency—and where human creativity is still essential for authentic brand storytelling.Building brands through unexpected partnerships – A standout co-branded campaign with Mixto and Instacart shows how creativity, timing, and collaboration can deliver outsize results.Connect with Tina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinabmehta/Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@rapidads.io with code “BEYOND2025” to find out how you can save more than $1,000 on our Digital Sell Sheets and Retail Media Automation solutionsTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

From Restaurant Owner to Tea Entrepreneur with Nicole KeatsJoin hosts Phil and Kenny as they sit down with Nicole Keating, founder of The Newfoundland Tea Company. In this candid and energetic conversation, Nicole shares her remarkable journey from running a fine-dining bistro in Gander to building a premium organic tea brand that's rapidly expanding beyond Newfoundland's shores.Nicole opens up about weathering personal and professional challenges—including a divorce, health struggles, and the devastating impact of the pandemic on her restaurant business—before finding unexpected success in the tea industry. Learn how her distinctive moose logo came to be, why premium tea is finding its market in a coffee-dominated world, and the creative ways she's incorporated tea into everything from cocktails to merchandise.This episode showcases an entrepreneur whose resilience, gut instincts, and commitment to quality have helped her navigate career transitions while staying true to her roots. Whether you're a tea lover, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply enjoy stories of reinvention, Nicole's authentic and spirited take on building a business from the heart offers inspiration and practical insights for the commerce life. check out Nicole's product here: https://www.thenewfoundlandteaco.com/Find Nicole here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-keats-084444266/Thank you to Field Agent Canada for sponsoring the podcast https://www.fieldagentcanada.com/ 

The CPGGUYS are joined in this episode by Shaan Modi, from New Jersey. Shaan is still in high school but was spotted by us at CAGNY (the annual consumer analysts gathering with senior CPG brand leaders) down in Florida in February. We observed him attend several sessions, and we quite surprised to see someone from Gen Z in this conference. We asked him what he thought, and his answers both intrigued and challenged our own biases of how he saw the notion of a 'brand'. We decided to bring him on the pod, he agreed, here is the episode. Enjoy the listen to what Gen Z thinks of the many brands we have spent decades building.Here's what we asked Shaan : Personal Experience & Perspective : What inspired you, as an 18-year-old, to attend CAGNY 2025, and how did you prepare to get the most out of it? Were there any moments during the conference that shifted your opinion about a brand or product?Health & Wellness Trends :Do you think the current “better-for-you” trends reflect authentic health concerns among Gen Z—or are they still mostly marketing tactics?Marketing Strategy : Which brand do you think best understands Gen Z in terms of digital-first marketing, and what made it stand out? How important is authenticity in influencer marketing to you and your peers? What makes something feel “forced” versus genuine?Innovation & Missed Opportunities : You pointed out how companies missed TikTok trends—why do you think they're slow to adapt, even when the data is right there? Do you think there's a risk in brands trying too hard to be trendy or viral? What's the right balance?If you could advise General Mills on a single product innovation to better appeal to Gen Z, what would it be?Product Development & Personalization : How important is personalization in food products for Gen Z? Would you actually use something like a custom snack box?Cultural & Social Relevance : What's one cultural or social movement you feel CPG brands are completely missing out on when it comes to Gen Z? Which viral food trend do you think has the most untapped brand potential right now?Vision for the Future : If you were to attend CAGNY 2030, what changes or evolutions would you hope to see in how brands engage with your generation?Personal Experience & Perspective? Were there any moments during the conference that shifted your opinion about a brand or product?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comCPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.comRhea Raj's Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual's use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

On FreightWaves' retail and CPG show, Mike Baudendistel and Grace Sharkey discuss CPG and retail reactions to tariffs and interview Wiley Jones, Co-founder and CEO at Doss. ⁠Follow The Stockout Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 In this episode, I sit down with Brad Ebenhoeh, co-founder of Accountfully, to unpack how CPG brands can build strong financial foundations to withstand tariffs, inflation, and whatever economic curveballs come their way. Brad shares practical strategies for cash flow management, margin protection, and forecasting so founders can stay resilient even in uncertain times. Whether you're sourcing internationally or scaling into retail, this conversation will help you sharpen your numbers and make smarter financial decisions—before it's too late. Startup to Scale is a podcast by Foodbevy, an online community to connect emerging food, beverage, and CPG founders to great resources and partners to grow their business. Visit us at Foodbevy.com to learn about becoming a member or an industry partner today.

CPG sales and volumes are slipping among persistent inflation and tariff fears, but Circana uncovers how food and beverage manufacturers are maintaining – and gaining – share despite the shaky market

On this episode of The Muslim Professionals Podcast, I sat down with Adam Ali, CEO and founder of The Uncommon Agency — a multi-channel Shopify Plus powerhouse working with global brands like Rare Beauty and Liquid Death.We got real. Adam shared his journey from growing up in a mixed-faith household in one of Liverpool's roughest neighborhoods, to building one of the most respected agencies in the Shopify ecosystem. We talked about the power of partnerships, scaling an agency without outside funding, breaking into new markets like the GCC, and why Muslims need to stop sleeping on the CPG wave.There's wisdom here for anyone navigating identity, building from nothing, or trying to figure out how to turn hustle into a high-impact business. This one's for the underdogs.

The Master Series is back! This week we are welcoming on 3 distinct and awesome entrepreneurs who are running their own CPG brands or have run brands in the past. This includes:Will NitzeFounder - IQ BarJeff ChurchDreamMakers and Previous Suja Co-FounderSteve O'DellFounder - Tenzo TeaThis episode is sponsored by Power Full Energy Distribution and Robert Cogan

They call it “better-for-you.” But better for who, exactly? And are trendy startups solving a problem – or just selling the illusion of one? The hosts dig in. We also revisit four interviews from Taste Radio's NYC meetup, where leaders from innovative food and beverage organizations, including Rethink Food and The Goods Mart, shared insights on mission-driven business models and scaling with purpose.  Show notes: 0:45: Deadlines & Agendas. Chasin' Victory. NNE Is Next. Your Grandma's A.I. BFY Candy & Vodka. It's Redundant, No?  The hosts note a fast-approaching deadline for the BevNET Live's New Beverage Showdown and the event's newly released agenda. They also spotlight Chasin' Dreams Farm, winner of the Naturally San Diego Naturally Rising Pitch Competition, and tease a similar event that a sister chapter will be hosting this month. They heap praise on Del Real Foods' new marketing campaign, before Ray's skepticism about new BFY candy bar brand Hormbles Chormbles sparks a conversation about whether moderation and simplicity answer real consumer needs. Melissa unveils a new line of “late night” Doritos and asks if soy milk might be having a quiet comeback, Jacqui highlights a beachy iced tea brand and Ray shows love to a pair of bottled cocktails inspired by a legendary bar in Japan.   30:44: Interviews from Taste Radio's NYC Meetup – Cole Riley, VP of Engagement and Partnerships at Rethink Food, described how the chef-led nonprofit repurposes excess food from restaurants and CPG brands to combat food insecurity, having delivered over 30 million meals across NYC and Miami. Austin Rief, co-founder of Morning Brew and Oceans Talent, explained how Oceans helps U.S. companies hire vetted overseas talent – mainly from Sri Lanka – for up to 65% cost savings while maintaining high-quality work and cultural fit. Rachel Krupa, founder of The Goods Mart and Krupa Consulting, highlighted her mission to spotlight better-for-you brands through curated retail and hotel minibars, emphasizing taste, founder values, and ingredient integrity. David Segal, the founder of David's Tea and now president of Highbeam, shared how his frustration with traditional banking led him to join and help grow novel financial platform Highbeam – a financial platform that automates finance tasks, optimizes cash flow, and provides tailored banking and credit solutions to scaling consumer brands. Brands in this episode: Liquid Death, Cann, Malk, Health-Ade, Chasin' Dreams Farm, Recoup, Mooski, Fierce & Kind, RXBAR, Body Vodka, Spiked Ade, Harken Sweets, Gigantic Candy, Mild Addictions, Del Real Foods, Farmer Foodie, Singing Pasture Farm, Conza Crumbs, Doritos, Madley Hadley, Kirra Tea, WholeMoon, Crushed Tonic, On The Rocks, Toki Whiskey, Haku Vodka, David's Tea, GNGR Labs

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy chats with Morgan Murdock, the founder of Unbothered Foods—a gut-friendly, sourdough-based cracker brand launched in 2023. Morgan, a clinical dietitian turned CPG entrepreneur, shares her journey from working with IBS patients to creating a delicious, low FODMAP cracker that prioritizes both taste and digestive health.They dive into everything from navigating product formulation and scaling production to finding the right co-manufacturer and managing fermentation at scale. Morgan also opens up about fundraising via WeFunder, the challenges of being a solo founder, and the importance of mentorship in building a mission-driven food brand.If you're a CPG founder, health-conscious foodie, or just love a good cracker, you won't want to miss this one. Tune in now!Use code STARTUPCPG at checkout for 15% off any cracker product!Listen in as they share about:Unbothered Foods OverviewWhy Crackers?The Sourdough AdvantageScaling & Manufacturing JourneyRetail & Distribution StrategyFunding & BootstrappingSolo Founder LifeMentorship & Community SupportEpisode Links:Website: https://unbotheredfoods.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganjmurdock/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of The Tech Trek, Daniel Whatley, co-founder and technical lead at Vividly, shares his journey launching a startup while still a student at MIT. From managing college life during COVID to navigating the CPG industry's digital transformation, Daniel reflects on what it meant to be the youngest in the room, how he grew into executive leadership, and what he wishes he'd known before co-founding a company. A candid look at growth, grit, and the impact of youth in a traditional space.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Brandon Nutter, co Founder and CTO of Ampd, which connects Google Ads directly to the world's largest marketplaces like Amazon and turn incremental revenue all the way up, and Steve Pet, Antitrust Associate at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP.Find Brandon Nutter on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonnutter/ Find Steve Pet on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-pet-22b12040/Find Ampd online at: https://www.ampd.io/Brandon & Steve answer these questions:What is the RPA policy and why does it hold brands back in your observation? Is it a ‘where to buy' challenge?We'd love to learn how RPA came about and how often do you encounter it in the law practice? Is it a big deal or not? Have you seen it enforced?We have a new administration and it's clear they are moving aggressively on removing business barriers. What are you guys anticipating?In your observation, what do CPG brands do today to stay compliant? Does this compliance then destroy ‘where to buy' as an intent to help the consumer know promotional offers?Let's stay on the theme of where to buy. What is it then ideal for and what is it not ideal for? Can I have both of you respond to that – Steve you first?Any case studies recently that you can share from personal experiences?Since this is a misunderstood topic, how is Ampd's platform help in this space? Why should a brand invest with you to overcome this challenge? What is then the advantage of sending closed loop traffic directly to retailers? Is first party data then lost as only retail will have it?How can a brand be RPA compliant? What is your outlook and closing advice on this topic?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comCPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.comSubscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual's use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

In this conversation, Vilma Livas, Chief Marketing Officer at Nature's Bakery, discusses the brand's purpose of providing healthier snack options for families and the importance of convenience, taste, and value in their product development process. We touch on the impact of the company's acquisition by Mars and how it has allowed for growth and innovation, particularly with new products like the Oatmeal Crumble and Hearty Bar. Vilma shares insights into her consumer-centric approach to product development and the importance of both consumer insights and retail partnerships in launching new products in the CPG industry. She shares the background behind the development of Nature's Bakery's newest innovation — the Hearty Bar. Then we wrap up by discussing Vilma's involvement with Women on Boards, advocating for greater representation of women in leadership roles, and her vision of a better world which includes democratizing access to healthy food options for all consumers. Takeaways:Nature's Bakery aims to nourish families and make healthy snacking accessible.The brand focuses on convenience, offering products that are easy to consume on the go.Consumer research revealed a full family audience for their snack bars, from toddlers to grandparents.The product design emphasizes great taste and better-for-you attributes.The acquisition by Mars has provided resources for scaling and innovation.Nature's Bakery maintains a commitment to its brand purpose despite ownership changes.The product development process starts with identifying consumer needs and iterating ideas.Collaboration with diverse teams enhances creativity in product development.The Oatmeal Crumble was developed to address the need for convenient breakfast options.A consumer-centric approach is crucial for successful product innovation. It's crucial to put personal bias aside for better outcomes.Retailers have their own goals that must be understood.Empathy in business relationships leads to better partnerships.Involving retailers early in product development increases success.Healthy snacks must appeal to both parents and children.Women are underrepresented in board positions despite their influence.Accessibility to healthy food is a significant issue.Consumer demand drives the need for better food options. Sound Bites:“Everything we do is this balance of three things that we hold dear: 1 - great taste; 2 - better-for-you; and 3 - accessibility.”“Start with the consumer. What's the job to be done? What is the problem we're trying to solve here?”“Being owned by a much larger organization has allowed us to accelerate the rate at which we can scale.”“Stay focused on the goal, not the path that we're taking to get there.”"Retailers are gatekeepers to the shelf.""Be empathic, show up and learn.""Kids are very discerning about their snacks."“If you think about the purchasing power of women, you would expect to see that they also influence the direction and course of companies, but they're not at the table.”“A better world is one where we've democratized better for you food, by making it available and accessible to all.” Links:Vilma Livas on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vdlivas/Nature's Bakery - https://naturesbakery.com/Nature's Bakery on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/naturesbakery/Nature's Bakery on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/naturesbakery/Nature's Bakery on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@naturesbakeryNature's Bakery on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@naturesbakery1316Nature's Bakery on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/nature-s-bakery/…Women on Boards - https://www.wobproject.com/Women on Boards on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wob-project/…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radio Chapters:03:00 - Introduction to Nature's Bakery and Brand Purpose06:03 - Understanding the Family Focus in Healthy Snacking08:58 - The Importance of Convenience and Product Design12:12 - Balancing Taste, Value, and Health in Product Development14:55 - Navigating Brand Growth and Acquisition Challenges18:07 - Leveraging Resources from Larger Corporations21:08 - Innovations: Oatmeal Crumble and Hearty Bar23:51 - The Product Development Process Explained26:56 - Iterating Ideas and Consumer-Centric Design32:30 - Consumer Insights and Retail Partnerships38:12 - Innovating with the Hearty Bar43:28 - Empowering Women on Boards48:38 - Personal Favorites and Future Trends53:47 - A Better World Through Accessible Food

When it comes to fueling ambition, some stories are just unforgettable. In this episode, Rose Hamilton, founder of Compass Rose Venture, sits down with Scott Turner and Nick Lagonia, the powerhouse duo behind Misery & Mayhem, a new protein-packed oatmeal brand that's redefining what "fuel" really means for athletes and everyday warriors alike. We dive deep into how two former Peloton team members turned their personal fitness journeys and frustrations into a brand that's all about perseverance, grit, and getting after it — one bowl at a time. I loved this conversation because Scott and Nick embody the heart of entrepreneurship: bootstrapping their way forward, listening closely to their customers, and creating a product that isn't just high-quality, but also emotional, bold, and stands for something. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a fitness enthusiast, or love a good founder story, you'll walk away inspired. Here are just a few highlights from this episode:

On this episode of The PlayStation Drive, we celebrate Matt and Ron as they depart from the CPG team, and we also talk about PlayStation and the weather. ★ LINKS ★► Support Carpool Gaming on Patreon: https://patreon.com/carpoolgaming► Join our amazing Discord community: https://discord.com/invite/WR3qcXJq9n► Get your Carpool Gaming merch: https://carpoolgaming.com/► Check us out on Twitch: https://twitch.tv/carpoolgaminglive► Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/carpoolgaming★ ULTIMATE PRODUCERS ★Johnathan Brown: https://linktr.ee/pme.jibCwagmire, who reminds you that the best babes are Xenobabes.TechMike, who says "Whether you are Kevesi or Agnian, you're a Xenobabe at heart."★ PLATINUM PRODUCERS ★Smokin JoeThe CaptainTim PaullinToxic★ GOLD MEMBERS ★Adam KAnnaAwesomeDave1337Brad MooreBrian ReeseCecily CarrozzaDan & LumaDannohhEmily O'KelleyJon32LigerWoods330Mr GigglesOldMrFrumpPatrice MallettePeje EPSteven Keller

Send us a textIn this fiery and flavorful episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Daniel, the bold and passionate creator behind Park Avenue Hot Sauces—a brand that's lighting up taste buds and redefining what it means to bottle flavor with heart. From the very first batch made in a home kitchen to selling out at markets and being featured on shelves, Daniel shares his journey of turning a passion project into a growing business rooted in community, creativity, and spice.We dive into how Park Avenue Hot Sauces was born, starting with Daniel's love for cooking and experimenting with bold, vibrant ingredients. What began as a quest to create the perfect balance of heat and flavor quickly turned into a full-blown venture—fueled by feedback from friends, a growing fanbase, and a vision to bring gourmet hot sauces to homes everywhere. Whether it's his signature sweet-heat combinations or small-batch seasonal releases, every bottle tells a story—and Daniel's is just heating up.From the hustle of farmers markets and pop-ups to navigating product development, labeling, and scaling up, Daniel gets real about what it takes to grow a handcrafted food brand from scratch. We talk about the power of community support, the challenges of breaking into the food space, and why staying true to your flavor—and your roots—is the secret ingredient to success.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ The origin story of Park Avenue Hot Sauces and how it went from kitchen to shelf ✅ Why flavor balance and small-batch integrity are at the heart of the brand ✅ How Daniel built a loyal following through markets, tastings, and word of mouth ✅ What it takes to grow a craft food business in today's competitive landscape ✅ Lessons in product development, brand storytelling, and building trust through taste ✅ How passion, persistence, and peppers can spark an unforgettable business journeyWhy Park Avenue Hot Sauces Stands Out:Park Avenue Hot Sauces isn't just about bringing the heat—it's about bringing bold flavor, handcrafted quality, and a touch of personality to every meal. With unique blends that go beyond basic spice, Daniel's sauces enhance rather than overpower, turning any dish into something crave-worthy. His commitment to quality, consistency, and customer connection makes Park Avenue a standout in the small-batch sauce world.Perfect For:

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff and Caitlin Bricker dive deep into how emerging brands are using AI for operations and back office support. Joined by two powerhouse founders—Yaminah Childress of YANY Beauty and Veronica Blue of Phenomenal Foods Co—they explore how small teams are using AI to scale smarter, save time, and simplify complex workflows.From AI-powered forecasting and document automation to personalized marketing and product costing, this episode breaks down the real-world tools that founders are actually using. Yaminah shares how she leverages tools like Perplexity AI and Contractor AI to manage agreements, expansion strategies, and even create AI assistants.Meanwhile, Veronica reveals how ChatGPT has become her go-to tool for recipe costing, unit economics, and preparing investor-ready projections—all as a solopreneur.Whether you're skeptical, curious, or already experimenting with AI, this episode will give you practical ideas and fresh inspiration to apply AI in your own business ops.Tune in now to learn how these founders are turning AI into their ultimate business partner. Listen in as they share about:Initial Skepticism Around AIAI as a Tool for Business EfficiencyAI as a Tool for Lean TeamsAI for Financial Modeling & ForecastingAI Building Internal Knowledge BasesLegal, Regulatory, and Forecasting UsesCustom Tools & SoftwareAI as a Creative PartnerEpisode Links:Website: https://yanybeauty.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamyaminah/ Website: https://phenomenalfoodsco.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vblue/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Market research can make a huge difference in your product offering and launch strategy, but bad data can be worse than no data at all according to my guest,  Lara Fordis. In this episode, Lara returns to discuss how market research has evolved in the CPG industry over the past four years, particularly with the emergence of AI tools that have made research both more accessible and potentially misleading. Lara shares insights on how entrepreneurs can properly validate their product ideas beyond the "echo chamber" of friends and family, highlighting the importance of getting feedback from representative target audiences who will actually pay for your product. We learn about the benefits of in-home use testing (IHUT), how to avoid common survey pitfalls like double-barreled questions, and why understanding your product's unique differentiation is crucial for success. Whether you're launching a new food product or scaling your existing brand, this conversation provides valuable perspectives on gathering meaningful consumer insights that can save you from costly mistakes and help you develop a viable market proposition.Find out more info about Lara's work and new course at http://fordisconsulting.com or email her at lara@fordisconsulting.comStop the endless research and overwhelm! Know exactly what each sales channel looks like for success and create a roadmap for your unique business - it's all inside the Sales Channel Challenge https://www.foodbizsuccess.com/challenge When you are ready to make the leap, get the support and accountability you need to create a beautiful business! Get Food Business Success to launch and scale to $100K guaranteed Scale your existing business to $300K in 2025 with the financial and operational foundations and become the CEO of your biz in Master Your Business Pick up your copy of "Key Ingredients" on Amazon here. Check out my YouTube channel at www.foodbiz.tube for how to videos to start and grow a packaged food business.

Host Fiona Fitz is joined by two powerhouse co-founders, Amelia Christie-Miller and Ed Whelpton from one of the most recent but well-loved UK challenger brands food - Bold Bean Co. What started as a mission to make people obsessed with beans has become one of the most exciting new category-creating brands in the UK.In this episode, we're getting behind the scenes on how they've driven growth: from designing a new category to TV appearances on Dragon's Den and This Morning (UK), the importance of traditional PR as well as seeding their product with the best chefs in the UK. We also spend time talking about how they're creating something truly different with their people, team and culture.The huge news is that Bold Bean Co is launching their first-ever co-branded product with Yotam Ottolenghi as we go live, take a listen and hear how it all happened!If you've ever wondered how to build a brand that truly stands for something, scale without losing focus, and get people talking about your product in a way that creates real demand—this one is for you.Useful Links:Bold Bean Co websiteBold Bean Co LinkedInConnect with Ed Whelpton on LinkedInConnect with Amelia Christie-Miller on LinkedIn=============================================================Thanks to Brand Growth Heroes' podcast sponsor - Joelson, the commercial law firm=============================================================If you're a founder, you already know how much of your energy goes into building the perfect product, creating standout branding and connecting with your consumers.But don't forget that scaling a CPG business also comes with a maze of legal complexities that can make or break your business journey. From contracts, term sheets and regulatory compliance to protecting your brand's intellectual property as you expand, it's essential to get it right.And that starts with the right legal partner.So we're thrilled to introduce Joelson, a leading commercial law firm that specialises in guiding the founders of scaling CPG brands, as Brand Growth Heroes' sponsor.With long-term relationships with clients like Little Moons, Trip, Eat Natural, Bear Graze, and Pulsin, Joelson is also famous for advising the innocent founders in their landmark sale to Coca-Cola! As a female team, we are especially impressed by Joelson's commitment to championing female founders in CPG.Not many law firms are also BCorps, nor do they specialise in helping founders navigate the legal challenges of scaling without stifling the creativity and momentum that got you here in the first place. So thanks, Joelson—we're delighted to have you on board.If you'd like to get in touch to find out more, why don't you drop them a line at hello@joelsonlaw.com!==============================================A tiny favour: If this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, please could you click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review? This small gesture from you means the world to us and allows us to share these nuggets of insight and value with you more often.Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us on our Brand Growth Heroes socials: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.Thanks to our Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS.

Visit thedigitalslicepodcast.com for complete show notes of every podcast episode. Join Brad Friedman and Jonathan Baker as they chat about a topic every business owner needs to think about at some point. Having an exit strategy! Jonathan Baker heads up the M&A practice at Punctuation. He has worked on dozens of deals both inside and outside the industry and brings a unique perspective as a fellow owner who has gone through the process himself. He graduated from Emory University's Goizueta Business School in 2005. His career began working at a small boutique marketing strategy consultancy. There, he was able to do marketing strategy and positioning work for many well-known Fortune 500 CPG companies. In 2011, he left to start a craft brewery, Monday Night Brewing where his focus was on marketing, sales, and taprooms. After helping his business partners grow to 180+ employees and numerous locations, Jonathan stepped away from the day-to-day to head up the M&A practice for Punctuation. He loves cocktails, music, and hiking, and lives in Atlanta with his wife, two kids, and entitled rescue Australian Shepherd, Oscar Snugs. The Digital Slice Podcast is brought to you by Magai. Up your AI game at https://friedmansocialmedia.com/magai

Points of discussion:1. 2025 Beer Branding Trends Review -Learn more at: www.craftbeerrebranded.com / http://www.beyondbeerbook.com-Have a topic or question you'd like us to field on the show? Shoot it our way: hello@cododesign.com-Join 8,000+ food and bev industry pros who are subscribed to the Beer Branding Trends Newsletter (and access all past issues) at: www.beerbrandingtrends.com 

Owner of Wild Moon Organics Sean Smith looks at brands, owning a bone broth company a little differently.  Check out Wild Moon Organics here: https://wildmoonorganics.ca/Find Sean here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-smith-1551b953/overlay/photo/Thank you to Fieldagent for sponsoring the podcast: https://www.fieldagentcanada.com/

On FreightWaves' retail and CPG show, Mike Baudendistel and Grace Sharkey discuss the impacts of tariffs and Grace interviews Meg Maurer, Vice President of Dedicated and Final Mile Sales at Werner Enterprises. ⁠Follow The Stockout Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of On Boards, hosts Joe Ayoub and Raza Shaikh welcome Lynn Clarke, an experienced leader in family board governance who has served on more than a dozen family and private equity-backed boards including as an independent chair and lead director. Lynn is also a strategic advisor and mentor and has served on boards spanning from beverage and food services to e-commerce and manufacturing.  Lynn has mentored next generation board members and leaders throughout her career and  was named the Private Company Director of the Year by National Association of Corporate Directors in 2022. She also serves as one of three judges for Deloitte's best managed private company awards program.   Key Takeaways 1. Interviewing for a board role With years of experience serving on boards, Lynn advises aspiring board members to carry a passion for the business, its products and what the company does. It's important to understand why you want to serve on a board, what value you add and what new perspectives you believe you will bring. She advises to make these points clear when you are interviewing for a board seat.  2. New boards vs. existing boards Newly formed boards offer a unique opportunity to build the culture, rhythm, and structure of governance from the ground up, but its success is dependent on the principal shareholder(s), who will define the culture of the board and company. Shareholders set the tone. 3. Knowing when it's time to leave a board or offboard a member Having the self-awareness is key to knowing when it's time to leave. Lynn suggests asking yourself, “am I still a good fit?” and “do I like what I'm doing on this board?”, “Am I enjoying the discussions at the board meeting?”, “Do I feel as though I am contributing to the growth of the company?” If the answers are no, maybe you need to consider stepping out.  Offboarding a member is one of the challenging aspects of board governance, especially in close-knit or long-tenured groups. It requires direct but respectful conversations from the lead director, board chair, or governance chair.  Whether a board member is being asked to leave due to performance issues or company changes, Lynn recommends treating it like a celebration and acknowledgement of the person's service on the board, almost like a retirement.  4. Board evaluations make it easier to provide ongoing feedback Even private and early-stage boards benefit from formal assessments. Annual board effectiveness and peer evaluations help surface underlying issues in board dynamics and performance. Peer evaluations can be sensitive for company boards, so Lynn suggests introducing different types of evaluations in parts.  Quotes “ABARTA Coca-Cola was one of the first family-owned businesses I know to really think about independent governance. There were a majority of independent directors on a board, had a high quality strategic plan that is really a living, breathing document and a good family council or an ownership council. Those are the three things that take a business from Gen 1 or 2 into 3, 4, 5, 6, and beyond.”  ”I take my commitments to the companies and the families that I work with 100% seriously the same way that I did in running a company or working for a Fortune 50.  When you join a board, you are committed to that organization. You're a fiduciary. Why would you do this unless you really wanted to help make an impact, and the only way you can make an impact is to take what you do seriously.”   ”The first thing you need to think about when you've been approached about joining a board: can I really make a contribution? I also think passion for the business is really important, passion for the product, the service and what the company does is really important.” “ It's important when you're on a newly formed board to think about what you know from boards that have been around for a while, and how you apply those learnings to help support the formation and the development of the new board.” “Do I enjoy the conversations? Am I feeling like it's a good fit?” And no matter how many years you've been on the board “do you like what you're doing?"   Links Four Key Questions to Ask Yourself How to Be an Exceptional Director Board Refreshment — When Is It Time? getonaboard.com   Guest Bio Lynn has extensive experience in family board governance, having served on more than a dozen family and PE boards as Independent Chair/Lead/Director. She also is a Strategic Advisor & Mentor to Family Board Chairs for Vitamix and for a Coca-Cola Bottler. And Lynn has mentored next generation board members & leaders. Her industry experience spans CPG, beverage, food, food service, e-commerce, digital, retail, manufacturing,and supply. She currently serves as an Independent Director on several boards, including Vollrath Manufacturing, Just Born (the PEEPS company), Basic American Foods and Kalsec Global Flavors. As an executive at PepsiCo, Lynn gained expertise in corporate strategy, operations, manufacturing, brand strategy, marketing and sales. She was named The Private Company Director of the Year by the National Association of Corporate Directors in 2022. Lynn also serves as one of three judges for Deloitte's Best Managed Private Company program and frequently speaks and writes on effective family business governance.  

Today we're into the behind-the-scenes journey of taking a beloved cult-favorite product from small-batch to store shelves across the country. I'm joined by the Justin Oleesky, COO of Coconut Cult, a brand that's made waves in the probiotic space with its ultra-potent coconut yogurt—and a company that's learned a lot about what it takes to scale into national distribution without losing your mind.We'll explore the operational challenges that come with growing fast: managing complex retailer requirements, staying resilient through economic uncertainty and tariffs, and keeping logistics on track when your systems start to buckle under volume. You'll also hear how they chose CRSTL as their EDI partner, what makes CRSTL different from other providers, and how that decision transformed their backend operations—saving time, reducing errors, and unlocking growth.Whether you're just starting to think about wholesale or already in retail and feeling the pressure of scale, this episode is packed with actionable lessons for founders, COOs, and operations leads alike.Sponsored by CRSTLCrstl is the smarter way to EDI. Get 25% off your entire first year and onboarded to any trading partner in 2 weeks or less. No complex setups, no delays—just fast, reliable, automated EDI at the lowest total cost of ownership. E-mail grace@foodbevy.comStartup to Scale is a podcast by Foodbevy, an online community to connect emerging food, beverage, and CPG founders to great resources and partners to grow their business. Visit us at Foodbevy.com to learn about becoming a member or an industry partner today.

In this episode, I sit down with João Esteves, founder of DiVERGE Sneakers, a brand that's rewriting the rules of footwear from the ground up.   We discuss why customization matters, how DiVERGE puts the customer's individuality front and center, and what it truly takes to build a business rooted in purpose, not just profit.   João opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, including the emotional resilience required to stay the course and the people who believed in him when the business needed it most. From launching a brand inspired by a Robert Frost poem to becoming a B Corp committed to people and the planet, João shares how DiVERGE is challenging mass production and the wasteful norms of the fashion industry. We also dive into the brand's incredible social impact program that helps underprivileged youth design their own shoes and share their stories with the world.

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with BJ McCaslin, co-founder of Holy! Water.BJ shares the story behind Holy! Water, a functional beverage brand built on the belief that health is sacred. Drawing on his deep experience in hospitality and beverage entrepreneurship—including a successful exit to Vita Coco—BJ discusses how Holy! Water was developed to meet multiple consumer needs with formulations that include ketones, functional mushrooms, and nootropics.They explore the evolution of the non-alcoholic and functional beverage categories, the challenges of product development, retail strategy, and navigating distribution. BJ also opens up about his approach to brand-building, investing in people, and what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive industry.Whether you're a CPG founder, investor, or industry enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insight into the grit, creativity, and strategy behind bringing a beverage brand to life. Listen now!

What's up, y'all - welcome to a very special episode of the ReGen Brands Podcast. This isn't just another episode—it's episode 100. That's right… triple digits.  And today, Kyle and I are taking a moment to reflect on everything this show has become since that first conversation back in 2022. We're talking about where the regenerative CPG space was when we started and just how far it's come—more brands, more awareness, more momentum.  We'll share the behind-the-scenes stuff too… the quirks, the laughs, the chaos, and the little rituals that have shaped our journey. We're giving out some fun awards—like grittiest guest, sweatiest guest, best background, and most listened-to episode—and yes, we roast ourselves a bit too. We'll also be sharing the regen products we've been loving lately and making some bold predictions about what's going to happen between now and episode 200. But most importantly, we're taking stock of what we've learned, where the industry's headed, and why we're still all-in on this work. Whether you've listened to one episode or all one hundred, we're so grateful you're here.  Episode Highlights:  

Michael Chernow has lived a few different lives—bartender, restaurant owner, wellness junkie, and now founder of Kreatures of Habit, a CPG (consumer packaged goods) brand built around healthy routines and real-life lessons. In this episode, Michael gets real about the highs and lows: growing up in NYC, getting sober, building restaurants, and starting over in a completely different industry.We talk about the messy stuff—mistakes, mindset shifts, burnout—and how those tough moments actually laid the groundwork for what he's doing now. If you're building a business, changing careers, or just trying to get your habits on track, this one's full of gold.Hit play, and maybe grab a notebook, as Michael shares about:Growing up in NYC: Michael's early influencesGetting sober: The turning point that changed everythingEntering the restaurant world: From vision to reality, and the beginning of Michael's entrepreneurial journeyLaunching Kreatures of Habit: The series of events that led KOH to being a CPG brandIf you loved today's show, please spread the love by leaving the show a 5-star rating and review. And if you really really loved it, share it with a friend that would enjoy following along on our journey as well! Until next week, Kreatures. Let's do this thing!TIMESTAMPS:2:06 Growing up in NYC10:14 Getting sober16:49 Entering the restaurant world21:28 Launching Kreatures of Habit

Live from Salsify's Digital Shelf Summit in New Orleans, a great conversation with founder and CEO of Stratably, the independent research and analyst companies for many of the largest CPG's in the industry. After his keynote at the conference, Russ sat down with Scott for a great conversation about the digital commerce economy and how ecommerce is still winning. Always Off Brand is always a Laugh & Learn!  Guest:Russ Dieringer   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russdieringer/      FEEDSPOT TOP 10 Retail Podcast! https://podcast.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/?feedid=5770554&_src=f2_featured_email QUICKFIRE Info:   Website: https://www.quickfirenow.com/ Email the Show: info@quickfirenow.com  Talk to us on Social: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quickfireproductions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quickfire__/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@quickfiremarketing LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/quickfire-productions-llc/about/ Sports podcast Scott has been doing since 2017, Scott & Tim Sports Show part of Somethin About Nothin:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/somethin-about-nothin/id1306950451 HOSTS: Summer Jubelirer has been in digital commerce and marketing for over 17 years. After spending many years working for digital and ecommerce agencies working with multi-million dollar brands and running teams of Account Managers, she is now the Amazon Manager at OLLY PBC.   LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerjubelirer/   Scott Ohsman has been working with brands for over 30 years in retail, online and has launched over 200 brands on Amazon. Mr. Ohsman has been managing brands on Amazon for 19yrs. Owning his own sales and marketing agency in the Pacific NW, is now VP of Digital Commerce for Quickfire LLC. Producer and Co-Host for the top 5 retail podcast, Always Off Brand. He also produces the Brain Driven Brands Podcast featuring leading Consumer Behaviorist Sarah Levinger. Scott has been a featured speaker at national trade shows and has developed distribution strategies for many top brands. LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-ohsman-861196a6/   Hayley Brucker has been working in retail and with Amazon for years. Hayley has extensive experience in digital advertising, both seller and vendor central on Amazon.Hayley is the Director of Ecommerce at Camco Manufacturing and is responsible for their very substantial Amazon business. Hayley lives in North Carolina.  LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-brucker-1945bb229/   Huge thanks to Cytrus our show theme music “Office Party” available wherever you get your music. Check them out here: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/cytrusmusic Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cytrusmusic/ Twitter https://twitter.com/cytrusmusic SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6VrNLN6Thj1iUMsiL4Yt5q?si=MeRsjqYfQiafl0f021kHwg APPLE MUSIC https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cytrus/1462321449   “Always Off Brand” is part of the Quickfire Podcast Network and produced by Quickfire LLC.  

Episode Description: “I don't have an MBA. I only have a food knowledge background, and that doesn't make me an expert, either. But I know how to inquire and how to connect. So I have just been digging and grinding through my process, always finding the answers when I need them.” —Seena Chriti       Snack innovation is more than just creating a product—it's about telling a cultural story through flavor. Every bite carries the potential to bridge traditions and challenge culinary expectations.  Seena Chriti is a culinary arts graduate from Mexico City with a deep passion for food, media, and cultural storytelling. Her entrepreneurial journey transforms traditional Mexican snacks into modern, health-conscious offerings through her CPG brand. Tune in as Justine sits with Seena to share her journey of launching a culturally inspired snack brand and how she navigated challenges in product development, market positioning, consumer education, scaling, cultural food innovation, and more.  Meet Seena: Seena Chriti is a Food and culture expert with TV and print media experience. Her focus is on visual media, such as TV and video production of Food segments. Her passion is the relationship of food with culture, history, art, its meaning, and symbolism. 
 Seena has worked in television, newspaper, and magazines, always highlighting the historical or symbolic value of food so that it is never taken for granted since it is considered one of the most important aspects of human life. She believes that food is the only element of culture that enters our body and becomes part of us.   Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube    Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube     Episode Highlights: 01:52 Meet Seena  04:26 The Role of Incubators and Accelerators 08:41 Consumer Feedback and Product Adjustments  14:21 Exciting Innovations  20:38 Consumer Perception and Market Challenges  Resource: Discount  Get a 10% discount when you shop at: https://paktlifoods.com/  Use discount code: 10%OFF

Troy Bonde and Winston Alfieri aren't selling your father's ragu. Instead, the 25-year-old co-founders of Sauz,  a bold, culture-forward pasta sauce brand, are reimagining what it means to build a modern CPG company from the ground up. And, it's working. Launched in 2023, Sauz has quickly made a name for itself with an unconventional lineup of jarred sauces, including Hot Honey Marinara, Creamy Calabrian Vodka, Miso Garlic Marinara, and Brown Butter Alfredo. The inventive flavors, combined with a strong brand voice and sharp social presence, have propelled Sauz onto the shelves of over 6,000 stores nationwide, including Whole Foods, Sprouts, Target, Wegmans, Kroger and more. In this episode, Troy and Winston dive into their journey from outsiders to industry disruptors and how a scrappy, solutions-first mindset powers everything they do. They also talk about the intentionality behind their brand's unique digital presence and why their path to being everywhere starts with obsessing over the details. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Troy Bonde & Winston Alfieri, Co-Founders, Sauz - On location at Expo West 2025, lifelong friends and co-founders Troy and Winston share the story of how they used the proceeds from their first stint in entrepreneurship to launch Sauz. They dive into why legacy tomato sauces never resonated with them, recounting late-night kitchen experiments, early sourcing hurdles, and the crucial role a food scientist played in translating wild flavor ideas into scalable products. Troy and Winston also reveal how they convinced skeptical retail buyers that Sauz could deliver true incremental value – and the grind behind cooking sauce for 62 straight days to meet a national Target launch and how saying “I don't know” has opened doors in unexpected ways. From managing brutal supply chain stress tests to deliberately turning down more retailers than they accept, they break down how discipline and focus are fueling smarter growth. They also unpack how a “lazy” social post sparked a viral breakout, how TikTok-native content is resonating with 50+ audiences on Instagram, and their strategy for thoughtful channel expansion into club and mass. Finally, they share the tough lessons learned from retailer rejections—and how their relentless focus on innovation and digital-first brand building is catching the eye of top-tier VCs. Brands in this episode: Sauz, Rao's Carbone, Truff, Immi

On today's episode of The Story of a Brand Show, I'm joined by Lauren Picasso, the founder and CEO of Cure Hydration.   What started as a personal struggle with staying hydrated as an endurance athlete led Lauren to launch a science-backed, clean-label hydration brand that is now available in thousands of retail stores.  We talked about how she identified the gap in the hydration category, built Cure from the ground up (including mixing formulas at home), and the strategic choices that helped the brand scale across DTC and retail. Lauren didn't come from the CPG world, but her background in e-commerce and performance marketing helped her build a brand that's both mission-driven and data-informed. She shares how DTC insights led to major pivots in product format and packaging, why launching in CVS was a game-changer early on, and how Cure's clean ingredients and powder format offer a better, more sustainable alternative to traditional sports drinks. Here's what we cover in this episode: * Why coconut water powder + salt = hydration magic * The moment CVS expanded Cure to 3,000+ stores—and what it unlocked * The value of launching DTC before going retail * The surprising reason most customers buy Cure (hint: it's not just for athletes) * Expanding into a kids' line (with flavors kid-tested and approved) Join me, Ramon Vela, as we listen to the episode and get inspired by how one founder turned a personal need into a rapidly growing wellness brand, redefining what it means to stay truly hydrated. For more on Cure Hydration, visit:  https://www.curehydration.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/ Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.    Augmentum Media - Influencer Marketing for Consumer Brands: https://www.augmentum-media.com/story What secret do fast-growing Health and Wellness brands like Xtendlife, Nourished, and Hunter & Gather share? They all outsource their influencer marketing to the experts at Augmentum. Augmentum is offering "The Story of a Brand Show" listeners a 30-minute consulting session AND a personalized influencer strategy plan built by their experts for you to implement either with them or in-house. Visit the link above to learn more. 

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with CPG veteran Matt Merson to dive deep into one of the most critical topics for emerging brands: velocity. With over three decades of experience from industry giants to emerging brands, including Coca-Cola, Dannon Yogurt, Glaceau Vitaminwater, Zico, Boxed Water, Haven's Kitchen, and now Once Upon a Coconut—Matt shares hard-earned insights on what it really takes to drive product velocity in retail.They explore everything from the pre-launch groundwork that sets brands up for success to the nuances of working with retailers, optimizing shelf placement, leveraging data, and understanding buyer expectations. They also break down in-store vs. out-of-store tactics, how to effectively run promotions and demos, and how to use merchandising partners to gain a competitive edge. For bootstrapped founders and well-funded startups alike.Matt's advice offers a roadmap to building a brand that turns quickly, wins over buyers, and scales sustainably in retail. Tune in now!Schedule a call with Grassroots, Startup CPG's demo partner:https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-callAccess Startup CPG's exclusive data package with NIQ:https://nielseniq.com/global/en/landing-page/startupcpg/Listen in as they share about:Velocity in Retail for CPG BrandsPre-Launch StrategyDriving In-Store VelocityMerchandisingOut-of-Store StrategiesData & Velocity MetricsDistribution & StockoutsBootstrapping AdviceEpisode Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-merson/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Today's show: Jason, Alex, and Lon discuss Figma's surprise IPO filing following its $1B breakup from Adobe, OpenAI's quiet push into social networking through a Sora image-sharing feed, and how sweeping new China tariffs are wreaking havoc on ecommerce companies—impacting jobs, supply chains, and pricing. Plus: the Substack vs. Patreon battle heats up, Lyft expands internationally, and we talk to the founders of Nerd Crawler and Cuts Clothing about how policy decisions ripple through startup land. A packed show with insights founders can't afford to miss.Timestamps:(0:00) Tariffs impact on ecommerce and CPG(2:22) Figma files to go public and Adobe's billion-dollar breakup fee(6:48) IPO market, competition, and Hammerspace's $100 million raise(9:34) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.(11:32) Patreon's new streaming feature and Substack's growth(19:08) Jason's experience with Patreon and Substack apps(19:33) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(25:58) OpenAI's new social network and Temu's Google Shopping ads shutdown(29:24) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twist(37:11) Nerdcrawler's business model and comic book industry economics(42:33) Marketplaces, scaling challenges, and tariff policy impact on startups(47:29) Steven Borrelli's viral tweet on tariffs and administration response(50:26) Effects of tariffs on costs, supply chain, and American manufacturing(57:56) Infrastructure, investment for US production, and potential layoffs(1:02:34) Closing remarks, endorsements, and quality of Cuts clothing(1:04:25) Addressing misconceptions about Asian manufacturing(1:05:00) OpenAI acquisition of Codium and market impact of tariff fears(1:05:52) Critique of tariff policy communication and domestic job creation discussionSubscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.comCheck out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.comSubscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcpCheck out:Nerd Crawler: https://nerdcrawler.comCuts: https://www.cutsclothing.com/Follow Lon:X: https://x.com/lonsFollow Alex:X: https://x.com/alexLinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelmFollow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanisThank you to our partners:(9:34) Pilot - Visit https://www.pilot.com/twist and get $1,200 off your first year.(19:33) LinkedIn Jobs - Post your first job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/twist(29:24) Notion - Try it for free today at https://notion.com/twistGreat TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarlandCheck out Jason's suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanisFollow TWiST:Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartupsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartupsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartupsSubstack: https://twistartups.substack.comSubscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@founderuniversity1916