Podcasts about cpg

This week we chat everything CPG! The start of trade show season is around the corner, category reviews are in full swing and are we in peak innovation?

What if the future of wellness marketing is simply… not trying so hard? In this episode, the hosts explore how mission-driven CPG brands are moving beyond preachy messaging and into a new era of modern moderation, one rooted in balance, authenticity, and consumer trust.  Plus, we sit down with beverage industry veteran Kevin Klock, who's back in the game as the co-founder and CEO of moringa-infused brand Orange Toucan, and Keegan Fong, the founder of Woon, a culture-forward pantry brand inspired by a family's beloved Chinese restaurants. Show notes: 0:25: MIA. Done Dry. Don't Lecture Me. A Good "Bully." Pop The Top. Too Much Tallow? Boop Me. – The team promotes an upcoming Miami meetup on February 18th at Casa La Rubia, encouraging founders to bring product samples. They also discuss how consumer attitudes around Dry January and wellness marketing are shifting away from rigid "all-or-nothing" messaging toward balance, moderation, and authenticity. The hosts shift to product samplings, including a new line of spirit-free canned cocktails, a brand of coffee beans with explosive packaging, beef tallow tortilla chips, BFY instant soups, protein shots, and corn snacks flavored with Vietnamese coffee. 19:58: Interview: Kevin Klock, Co-Founder & CEO, Orange Toucan – Kevin Klock shares the origins of Orange Toucan and his partnership with co-founders Rob Snell and Sandy Wheeler, creator of Bowflex. He explains how the moringa-infused beverages, blended with ginger and turmeric, are designed to support inflammation reduction and blood sugar management, highlighting Wheeler's own experience with the products. Klock also discusses the brand's approach to consumer education through online channels and trusted influencers. 28:11: Interview: Keegan Fong, Founder, Woon – Keegan explains the meaning of "Woon" and how the brand took shape during the COVID pandemic. He discusses Woon's growth to more than 500 stores nationwide, with products like Mama's Way hot sauce, a versatile stir-fry sauce, and other pantry staples. Keegan also shares how building an online following helped fuel retail expansion and create a full-circle brand experience connecting the restaurant and packaged goods. Brands in this episode: Recess, Athletic Brewing, Zevia, Red Bull, Bully Boy Distillers, Pretentious Coffee, Blue Bottle, Manchas, Long Weekend, The Cumin Club, Green & Sunny, Shooka Sauce, Boop, Chilly Water, Like Air, Copper Cow  

I sit down with Rachel Vigil, Founder of UpClose Marketing, to break down one of the most overlooked sampling channels for emerging CPG brands: vacation rentals and short-term stays.We talk about how placing products inside Airbnbs, mid-term rentals, and campgrounds allows brands to reach high-intent consumers in distraction-free environments without the high costs and chaos of festivals or in-store demos. Rachel shares which product categories perform best, how brands can collect real feedback and emails, and how this channel can support retail growth and long-term customer relationships.If you're curious whether this sampling strategy could work for your brand, you can contact Rachel by emailing me at intro@foodbevy.com, and I'll be happy to make an introduction.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.

Delanie Fischer chats with Yousuf Ahmed, founder and CEO of B-SIDES, about upcycling, sustainability, and building an ethical CPG brand—from origin story to sourcing, manufacturing, and growth. Yousuf also shares the routines and mindset practices that keep him grounded through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, offering practical takeaways for anyone building a conscious business or looking for inspiration to upcycle in daily life. Episode Highlights:  Inside the Evening Ritual That Keeps Yousuf Grounded Where You Start Isn't Likely Where You'll End Up 2 Mindsets Every Entrepreneur Can Use as Needed Releasing Perfectionism for the Sake of the Mission Inside Scoop: Production in the U.S. vs. Canada ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes (audio & video) now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: We Need Your Art! For Health, Community, and More with Amie McNee: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/25b6ee3e/we-need-your-art-for-health-community-and-more-with-amie-mcnee Q&A: Publishing, Podcasting, and Creative Entrepreneurship with Literary Agent Lindsey Smith and Podcaster Delanie Fischer: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23bfb9d7/qanda-publishing-podcasting-and-creative-entrepreneurship-with-literary-agent-lindsey-smith-and-podcaster-delanie-fischer The Shocking Ingredients in Menstrual Products: Toxic Truths, Safe Alternatives, and the Future of Period Care with Arielle Loupos: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2bd21fe3/the-shocking-ingredients-in-menstrual-products-toxic-truths-safe-alternatives-and-the-future-of-period-care-with-arielle-loupos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Week In Startups is made possible by:Gusto - http://Gusto.com/twistZite - http://zite.com/twistCircle.so - http://circle.so/twistGuest links: Andrew Duffy, Founder and CEO, http://sparkplug.app — Retail incentives and brand partnerships platformFord Smith, Founder of http://Ultranative.com — Investing in transformative startupsSocrates Rosenfeld, Founder and CEO of http://iheartjane.com — One stop shop for cannabis productsToday's show: On TWiST's first Cannabis Roundtable, Jason is joined by three top Cannabis founders and investors: Ford Smith of Ultranative, Andrew Duffy of Sparkplug, and Socrates Rosenfeld of Jane.How will the regulatory environment and the move to Schedule III change the industry? Are those regulations shaping consumption? How are investors thinking about cannabis startups given the difficulty with exits? Most importantly, what's the deal with the increasing potency of cannabis?Each guest has their own perspective, Andrew sees it as a natural reaction from CPG brands to power users, Ford points to “flyover” operators unconcerned with long-term health of the industry, while Socrates refers to moonshine drinking during the prohibition to say that regulations create these problems.Speaking of moonshine, alcohol consumption is dropping dramatically among Gen-Z, with many pointing to cannabis consumption as a substitute. Some perceive cannabis as healthier and lacking caloric nature of alcohol, which could explain why there are now more daily smokers than daily drinkers!Timestamps:(0:00) Guest Introductions for the Cannabis Roundtable!(2:50) Why Jason invested in Sparkplug(6:44) How Ford Smith got into Cannabis investing — is it Cannabis a good investment?(11:40) Gusto - Check out the online payroll and benefits experts with software built specifically for small business and startups. Try Gusto today and get three months FREE at http://Gusto.com/twist.(12:46) Socrates breaks down building a major cannabis marketplace(18:13) Canadian legalization and tailwinds for cannabis.(20:25) How Cannabis startups are pivoting to deal with high competition and regulatory pressure(21:47) Zite - Zite is the fastest way to build business software with AI. Go to http://zite.com/twist to get started.(27:07) Who benefits from legalization of cannabis? Healthcare? Retail? Banking?(28:03) How the alcohol industry is getting crushed by cannabis usage(31:27) Circle.so -  The easiest way to build a home for your community, events, and courses — all under your own brand. TWiST listeners get $1,000 off Circle's Professional Plan by going to http://circle.so/twist.(32:47) Is new cannabis too potent? Is high potency cannabis a result of illegal rules.(42:05) Why heavy consumers are driving CPG startups to high doses(44:14) Cannabis psychosis and the problem with brands selling potency items.*Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.comSubscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp*Follow Lon:X: https://x.com/lons*Follow Alex:X: https://x.com/alexLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/*Follow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis/*Thank you to our partners:(11:40) Gusto - Check out the online payroll and benefits experts with software built specifically for small business and startups. Try Gusto today and get three months FREE at http://Gusto.com/twist.(21:47) Zite - Zite is the fastest way to build business software with AI. Go to http://zite.com/twist to get started.(31:27) Circle.so -  The easiest way to build a home for your community, events, and courses — all under your own brand. TWiST listeners get $1,000 off Circle's Professional Plan by going to http://circle.so/twist.Check out all our partner offers: https://partners.launch.co/

Russell went from working in private equity to hand-delivering dog food on the NYC subway at 5 a.m. He didn't start with a VC check; he started with a studio apartment kitchen and a belief that dog food was broken.In this episode, Russell breaks down how he turned a side hustle into Spot & Tango, a direct-to-consumer giant doing over $100M in revenue. He reveals the gritty reality of early-stage CPG, why he vertically integrated his own factory when everyone else outsourced, and how a simple "fresh dry" product innovation called UnKibble unlocked massive scale.Why You Should ListenHow to scale from a studio apartment kitchen to $100M+ revenue.How a simple packaging choice created a premium brand identity.Why your second product might become your biggest winner.Why the best performing ad creative is often the cheapest.Keywordsstartup podcast, startup podcast for founders, product market fit, finding pmf, DTC startup, CPG brand, direct to consumer, scaling a startup, founder stories, Spot and Tango00:00:00 Intro00:02:30 From Private Equity to Dog Food00:07:36 Hand-Delivering to the First Customer00:11:57 The Dark Ages: Cooking in a Shared Kitchen00:19:17 Pricing Strategy Without Sales Data00:22:50 The Pink Butcher Paper Brand Identity00:26:26 Launching UnKibble: The 9-Figure Product00:31:52 Why Vertical Integration is a Moat00:40:54 The Best Ad Creative is a Sticky Note00:47:09 Selling Out Inventory in 4 DaysSend me a message to let me know what you think!

Jodi Scott is the CEO and co‑founder of Green Goo by Spry Life, a plant‑based first aid company that started the way a lot of real businesses do: out of necessity, frustration, and a kitchen that slowly turned into a production facility. What began with homemade remedies and mason jars eventually grew into a nationally distributed brand, but not without detours, hard lessons, and a few moments where the easy path would have cost the company its soul. Jodi's story is not a clean, linear founder arc. She built Green Goo from the ground up, sold the company, and then made the rare and uncomfortable decision to buy it back. That experience reshaped how she thinks about success, control, and what it actually means to build something that lasts. She's lived both sides of the exit fantasy and is candid about what people don't talk about once the deal closes: identity loss, cultural drift, and the realization that money doesn't automatically equal alignment. At her core, Jodi is deeply skeptical of performative purpose. She believes mission‑driven branding only works when the mission shows up in operations, hiring decisions, ingredient sourcing, and the way leadership behaves when no one's watching. Her opinions about marketing are sharp, practical, and often uncomfortable for founders who want growth without accountability. In her view, attention is easy to buy; trust is not. Green Goo reflects that philosophy. The brand is farm‑based, plant‑forward, and built around first aid products that do what they claim without relying on synthetic shortcuts. But Jodi is quick to point out that values alone don't move product. Execution does. Systems do. Saying no does. She's spent years learning how to scale a values‑led business without turning it into a hollow lifestyle brand or a corporate costume. Family plays a real role in the story, not as a sanitized origin myth, but as a source of both tension and strength. Jodi credits a "functional dysfunction" for sharpening her instincts, forcing hard conversations, and teaching her how to lead without pretending conflict doesn't exist. Those lessons show up in how she builds culture and how she handles growth moments that pressure companies to compromise. Today, Jodi spends her time running Green Goo, advising other founders, and pushing back on the idea that bigger is always better. She's an advocate for intentional growth, honest leadership, and businesses that can look themselves in the mirror after scaling. Fueled by kombucha, pure cocoa, and a stubborn commitment to doing things the hard but right way, Jodi Scott represents a version of entrepreneurship that's less about hype and more about durability. On the ROI Podcast episode 502 How To Build A Green Business

Uncle Arnie's is one of the most compelling growth stories in THC beverages right now — and this episode breaks down how it actually happened.Since launching in 2020, the THC drinks brand has delivered roughly 100% growth each year, scaling from about $400K in Year 1 to more than $25M in revenue today. It's now one of the largest THC beverage brands in California, with a rapidly expanding national footprint across both regulated cannabis and hemp markets.In this episode, Theo Terris, co-founder and CEO of Uncle Arnie's, walks through how the company built momentum in a fragmented, highly regulated category — despite having no background in beverage, cannabis, or CPG. That outsider perspective shows up everywhere: From approachable branding and packaging that educates consumers, to a relentless focus on partners and execution.Theo explains why Uncle Arnie's leaned into full-flavor, familiar formats like teas, lemonades, sodas, and functional shots instead of chasing seltzer trends — and how thoughtful dose architecture (2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg) unlocked both sessionability and compliance across myriad state-by-state regulations. He also details how consumer education, including clear onset-time cues on packaging, helped reduce friction for first-time buyers and retailers alike.The conversation offers a rare, unvarnished look at what scaling actually looks like in THC beverages. Theo breaks down how Uncle Arnie's approached distribution market by market, why merchandising remains one of the category's biggest challenges, and how mature states like California and Minnesota provide a preview of where the space is headed.For investors, Theo shares how Uncle Arnie's raised capital opportunistically — recently closing a $7.5 million Series A with Mindset Capital, Delta Emerald Ventures, and strategic investor Harry Rubin of Boston Beer — and why mentorship and operational rigor mattered as much as funding. Even amid regulatory uncertainty, the brand continues to expand, landing in major retail chains and adding new points of distribution.The bigger takeaway: This isn't a hype-driven THC story. It's a grounded, data-aware discussion about building a real beverage business in a nascent and rapidly changing category.Whether you're a drinks founder, retailer, distributor, or investor tracking where the next major beverage movement is forming, this episode delivers insight into what's actually working — and what matters most when scaling in emerging categories.Don't miss our next episode, dropping on February 4.For the latest updates, follow us:Business of Drinks:YouTubeLinkedInInstagram @bizofdrinksErica Duecy, co-host: Erica Duecy is founder and co-host of Business of Drinks and one of the drinks industry's most accomplished digital and content strategists. She runs the consultancy and advisory arm of Business of Drinks and has built publishing and marketing programs for Drizly, VinePair, SevenFifty, and other hospitality and drinks tech companies.LinkedInInstagram @ericaduecyScott Rosenbaum, co-host: Scott Rosenbaum is co-host of Business of Drinks and a veteran strategist and analyst with deep experience building drinks portfolios. Most recently, he was the Portfolio Development Director at Distill Ventures. Prior to that, he was the Vice President of T. Edward Wines & Spirits, a New York-based importer and distributor.LinkedInCaroline Lamb, contributor: Caroline is a producer and on-air contributor at Business of Drinks and a key account sales and marketing specialist at AHD Vintners, a Michigan-based importer and distributor.LinkedInInstagram @borkalineSPONSOR: SWIG Partners is exclusively offering $100 off their supplier-distributor matchmaking fee when you mention the Business of Drinks podcast, or inquire via this link: ⁠https://www.swigpartners.com/businessofdrinksIf you enjoyed today's conversation, follow Business of Drinks wherever you're listening, and don't forget to rate and review us. Thank you!

AI is moving fast. Find out what leaders need to do keep it human.In this episode of Women Leaders on the Move, Natalie Benamou sits down with Dominique Murray, author and Head pf Head of Industry-Retail and CPG at Amazon. Listen in as they share why critical thinking is something we need to retain and how leaders can use AI to speed up work without losing their authentic voice.From digital personas to pausing to let tech catch up, this is a must listen to episode for all leaders. Dominique also shares the premise behind her futuristic fiction series Dominion Ascension, where technology shapes society in ways that hit close to home.Keep shining your light bright. The world needs you.About Our GuestDominique Murray is Head of Industry- CPG & Retail, AmazonDominique Murray was born and raised in California. She studied Economics and Japanese at the University of California, Los Angeles. She began writing her debut novel during Covid. When she's not writing, she is working in the tech industry or doing Hot Pilates. Dominique creates content that uplifts and celebrates the female spirit.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-murray/Book: Dominion Ascension https://a.co/d/0EWpznsWebsite: https://damurrayofficial.com/HerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, or connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.

After years of building credibility with a core consumer, Zevia is leaning into scale – and confronting what it takes to turn a purpose-driven brand into a durable CPG business.  In this episode, CEO Amy Taylor breaks down the executional shifts across product, pricing, packaging and mass retail distribution that are helping Zevia compete more effectively in mainstream grocery and position the brand for sustainable, long-term growth. Show notes: 0:25: Amy Taylor, CEO, Zevia – Amy discusses her journey from two decades at Red Bull to leading Zevia, explaining how her brand-building experience prepared her to scale a modern soda brand at the right cultural moment. She positions Zevia as a timely solution amid growing interest in the better-for-you soda category and explains how advances in stevia use and flavor blending have unlocked a more sugar-like taste. Amy highlights the brand's expansion into mainstream retailers like Walmart, its role as an anchor brand due to value and multipacks, and the importance of trust, transparency, and word-of-mouth marketing over lecturing consumers. She also discusses packaging makeovers and a new marketing campaign focused on a moderation-based philosophy. Amy also outlines her leadership approach, which is centered on humility, strong teams and long-term growth. Brands in this episode: Zevia, Red Bull, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Mountain Dew, Sprite, Doritos, Oreos

Intro: Importance of fair sourcing + ethical pay in the coca industry as we ramp up for Valentine's DayTaza co-founder and CEO Alex Whitmore took his first bite of stone ground chocolate while traveling in Oaxaca, Mexico. Inspired by its rustic intensity, he learned to hand-carve granite millstones and built the Taza Chocolate factory back home in Somerville, Massachusetts with his wife, co-founder Kathleen Fulton in 2005.IG tazachocolate | tazachocolate.comHaylee Jordan of FABRICFABRIC is a premium, THC-infused Aussie Hop Fizz. We're here to spark creativity, bring people together, and create meaningful social impact where we can. We like to say we're on a mission to unf*ck tomorrow, because the world's on fire. We give 2% to mental health initiatives and work to marry profit and purpose.Haylee brings over a decade of brand strategy and identity design to her newest venture: co-founding a CPG brand with two fellow founders that marries profit and purpose.IG drinkfabric | drinkfabric.comFind Me:IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studiocitrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.comCreate your ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#madeonzencastr

Why do so many e-commerce businesses struggle to grow? Is your online store growing—or just surviving?In this episode of The Business Ownership Podcast I interviewed Aj Saunders. Over the last decade, AJ has launched an eBook publishing company, built and scaled a global e-commerce shop (initially on WooCommerce and later on Magento), and expanded into marketing strategy under the Audacious Commerce brand.He has built countless websites for a wide range of clients and advised business owners on how to develop and implement effective digital strategies tailored to their goals.Today, AJ is known as The E-Commerce Growth Architect, helping D2C and CPG brands doing $2M–$10M in revenue scale sustainably and profitably.Grow your e-commerce business with confidence. Check this out!Show Links:Audacious Commerce Website: https://www.audaciouscommerce.com/Aj Saunders on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-j-saunders/Book a call with Michelle: https://go.appointmentcore.com/book/IcFD4cGJoin our Facebook group for business owners to get help or help other business owners!The Business Ownership Group - Secrets to Scaling: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessownershipsecretstoscalingLooking to scale your business? Get free gifts here to help you on your way: https://www.awarenessstrategies.com/

The updated clinical practice guideline for managing hip osteoarthritis landed in late 2025. Today, Dan and Marquis speak with lead author Dr Thomas Koc Jr. to highlight what's new, what's changed and what's currently considered best practice for hip osteoarthritis. Dr Koc shares the upgraded evidence for dry needling, downgraded evidence for ultrasound, and everything in between. ------------------------------ RESOURCES Read the CPG yourself here: https://www.jospt.org/doi/10.2519/jospt.2025.0301

Quitting a cushy job at American Airlines to sell recipe cards? Sounds crazy—until you realize it's an eight-figure business. Josh Hadley, host of the podcast Ecomm Breakthrough and founder of Hadley Designs, shares how he and his wife turned a passion for design into a scaling e-commerce brand. From moonlighting in the corporate world to leveraging Amazon arbitrage, Josh breaks down the gritty truths, painful lessons, and hidden strategies that led to explosive growth—without raising a dime in funding. You'll learn: • Why your cash conversion cycle might be killing your growth • The Amazon era is over—where smart CPG brands are moving next • How to scale without giving away your company Listen now and rethink what it really takes to grow a CPG brand that lasts.

In this episode of Product & Packaging Powerhouse, Megan Young Gamble talks with regulatory specialist Mo Lovelace , co-CEO of Steinberg & Associates, about the evolving landscape of cosmetic product regulations. They discuss the impact of the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MOCRA), which now mandates FDA registration for both products and manufacturing facilities, no matter the brand size. Mo Lovelace breaks down responsibilities brands have for reporting adverse events, labeling compliance, and the significance of ingredient bans at both federal and state levels (especially California's new requirements). The conversation emphasizes the importance of regulatory specialists in product development, best practices around documentation, and how brands, big or small, should prioritize compliance to prevent costly mistakes. Plus, there's practical advice on substantiating marketing claims and tips for surviving regulatory changes in 2026. The episode wraps with a fun rapid-fire round exploring Mo Lovelace's passion for tennis and family life.Affiliate & Other Links:[Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie” [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager [FREEBIE] Access commonly referenced organizations and tools in ONE PLACE with our handy guide HERE [link] https://bit.ly/OSTPlay Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform[Powerhouse Guest Mo's LINKS]LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moyin-lovelace-2743a792/Company Website : https://www.steinbergandassociates.comEmail Address:  mo@steinbergandassociates.comAdditional Resource links: Sustainable Packaging Coalition: https://sustainablepackaging.org/Circular Action Alliance: https://circularactionalliance.org/Independent Beauty Association (IBA): https://independentbeauty.org/ Quotes:An ounce of prevention will save you a whole lot of money at the other end.From the FDA and FTC standpoint, your claims should always be truthful and not misleading.I don't want my brands to launch products out here and they're not compliant.Clean does not mean safeYou should be starting now, because as your brand grows, you already understand what compliance looks like.Conquer the US first, build your business here, and then look into going elsewhere.The stronger your claims are, the stronger your data to support that claim should be.

Circana's Sally Lyons Wyatt walks us through new research from the global consulting firm's that reveals just how dramatically GLP-1 medications are shifting U.S. consumer eating and purchasing behavior—and how CPG brands and retailers can get ahead of increasing consumer demand. Nutrition and metabolism researcher Kevin Hall unpacks the latest science on ultra-processed foods, explaining why debates over definitions often miss the deeper mechanisms driving excess calorie intake, and explores how food scientists, nutrition researchers, and industry innovators can work together to develop healthier, evidence-based products for the future. Plus: This episode of Omnivore is brought to you by IFT Membership. It's where you belong. As a member, you'll enjoy a global community united by purpose and driven by science ready to make a lasting impact on the global food system. Visit ift.org/join.

As population growth, soil degradation and climate pressures converge, BSI's Todd Redwood explains why the next 10 years will determine whether the global food system can deliver enough high-quality nutrition, strategic opportunities and next steps for savvy CPG players

What if your AI systems could explain why something will happen before it does, rather than simply reacting after the damage is done? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sat down with Zubair Magrey, co-founder and CEO of Ergodic AI, to unpack a different way of thinking about artificial intelligence, one that focuses on understanding how complex systems actually behave. Zubair's journey begins in aerospace engineering at Rolls-Royce, moves through a decade of large-scale enterprise AI programs at Accenture, and ultimately leads to building Ergodic, a company developing what he describes as world models for enterprise decision making. World models are often mentioned in research circles, but rarely explained in a way that business leaders can connect to real operational decisions. In our conversation, Zubair breaks that gap down clearly. Instead of training AI to spot patterns in past data and assume the future will look the same, world-model AI focuses on cause and effect. It builds a structured representation of how an organization works, how different parts interact, and how actions ripple through the system over time. The result is an AI approach that can simulate outcomes, test scenarios, and help teams understand the consequences of decisions before they commit to them. We explored why this matters so much as organizations move toward agentic AI, where systems are expected to recommend or even execute actions autonomously. Without an understanding of constraints, dependencies, and system dynamics, those agents can easily produce confident but unrealistic recommendations. Zubair explains how Ergodic uses ideas from physics and system theory to respect real-world limits like capacity, time, inventory, and causality, and why ignoring those principles leads to fragile AI deployments that struggle under pressure. The conversation also gets practical. Zubair shares how world-model simulations are being used in supply chain, manufacturing, automotive, and CPG environments to detect early risks, anticipate disruptions, and evaluate trade-offs before problems cascade across customers and regions. We discuss why waiting for perfect data often stalls AI adoption, how Ergodic's data-agnostic approach works alongside existing systems, and what it takes to deliver ROI that teams actually trust and use. Finally, we step back and look at the organizational side of AI adoption. As AI becomes embedded into daily workflows, cultural change, experimentation, and trust become just as important as models and metrics. Zubair offers a grounded view on how leaders can prepare their teams for faster cycles of change without losing confidence or control. As enterprises look ahead to a future shaped by autonomous systems and real-time decision making, are we building AI that truly understands how our organizations work, or are we still guessing based on the past, and what would it take to change that? Useful Links Connect with Zubair Magrey Learn more about Ergodic AI Thanks to our sponsors, Alcor, for supporting the show.

From cell-cultured protein and functional soda to premium cereal and frozen snacks, this episode spotlights innovative brands, emerging partnerships, and winning strategies gaining momentum across the CPG landscape. Show notes: 0:25: Control, This Is BTS. Faire Plays & Pops. A Magnificent Merger. Magic Mallows? Hey, Maker. – Ray and Mike kick things off by unpacking a chaotic behind-the-scenes studio setup before spotlighting standout brands from the 2026 Winter FancyFaire*, including a globally inspired popcorn line, a kid-friendly rooibos tea–based hot cocoa, vegan and gluten-free frozen churros, and Quatro Mamas' salsa macha. The hosts also review Culture Pop's limited-edition black cherry soda collaboration with musician Noah Kahan and discuss the merger of three female-led CPG brands as a savvy early-stage strategy to streamline costs and scale more efficiently. Rounding things out, they dig into Magic Spoon's new protein cereals with marshmallows and protein pastries, along with Tractor Beverage's apple cider vinegar–based "Haymaker" ready-to-drink tonics. 19:58: Interview: Lou Cooperhouse, Co-Founder & CEO, BlueNalu – Lou discusses how BlueNalu is pioneering cell-cultivated seafood, the science behind the breakthrough, and why it could be a new frontier for sustainable, chef-driven dining. 28:11: Interview: Heather Brown, Owner, Sati Soda – Heather shares how Sati Soda has grown into a nationwide brand, offering organic CBD, functional, and low-sugar beverages that resonate with health-conscious consumers. Brands in this episode: BlueNalu, Sati Soda, Nomad Snacks, Teany Tea, Madres Churros, Culture Pop, Nemi, Tuyyo, Todo Verde, Magic Spoon, Cheerios, Pop-Tarts, Tractor Beverage Co., Olipop, Poppi, Miller, Quatro Mamas

This week we are LIVE chatting with Jomaree Pinkard, one of the co-founders and Chairman from Hella Cocktail and the founding member of INCLUDED CPG, a non profit committed to empowering entrepreneurs and leaders of color in the food and beverage industry! Hella Cocktail Co. was established in 2011 by three curious friends, Jomaree Pinkard, Eddie Simeon, and Tobin Ludwig, who share a love of gathering, celebration, sharing knowledge, and of course, craft cocktailing. Hella is a brand that makes botanically-inspired mixers and bar-quality beverages with all real ingredients and no fake stuff, ever.Jomaree is ACTIVE in life and business and we cannot wait to chat CPG and the NFL playoffs or mentorship!

In this Omni Talk Retail interview, recorded live from FMI 2026 at the Simbe booth, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga speak with Julian Mintz, VP of Sales at Albertsons Media Collective, about how retail media is evolving and what brands are looking for next. Julian shares how Albertsons Media Collective is leveraging national scale, local banner strength, and true omnichannel reach to help brands connect with shoppers from the couch all the way to checkout. The conversation explores why in store media is moving into the spotlight, how measurement and closed loop attribution are shaping brand confidence, and what it takes to align media, merchandising, and promotion into a single strategy. Julian also discusses how Albertsons works with CPG partners to break down silos between traditional media, shopper marketing, and retail media, and why education and internal collaboration are critical to driving unit sales and long term growth. Key Topics Covered - What differentiates Albertsons Media Collective in a crowded retail media landscape - How Albertsons defines true omnichannel reach - Why in store media is still early but gaining momentum fast - The role of measurement and closed loop attribution in brand adoption - Aligning media, merchandising, and promotion for better outcomes - Breaking down silos between brand, agency, and shopper budgets - How technology enables precision across banners and demographics Stay tuned to Omni Talk Retail for continued coverage from FMI 2026, recorded live from the Simbe booth in the FMI Tech section. #FMI2026 #AlbertsonsMediaCollective #RetailMedia #InStoreMedia #GroceryRetail #RetailTechnology #Omnichannel #RetailLeadership #OmniTalk

In this Omni Talk Retail interview, recorded live from FMI 2026 in San Diego at the Simbe booth, Chris Walton connected with Madhav Durbha, Group Vice President of CPG & Manufacturing at RELEX Solutions. Madhav shares a practical and grounded perspective on what it really means to adopt an AI-first mindset in grocery and supply chain organizations. Drawing from his experience working with leading companies, he outlines a portfolio-style approach to AI adoption, balancing proven solutions, emerging use cases, and aspirational moonshots. The conversation emphasizes why people remain at the center of supply chain transformation, even as AI accelerates. Madhav explains why organizations must invest heavily in education, culture, and change management, and why successful AI adoption requires as much unlearning as learning. The discussion also explores how leaders are navigating AI with cautious excitement, filtering hype from reality, and rethinking processes instead of simply automating legacy workflows. Key Topics Covered: - What an AI-first mindset really looks like - A 70/20/10 framework for AI adoption - Why people and culture determine AI success - Filtering AI hype from real business value - Rethinking processes instead of automating them - The role of unlearning in digital transformation Stay tuned to Omni Talk Retail for continued coverage from FMI 2026, recorded live from the Simbe booth in the FMI Tech section. #FMI2026 #OmniTalkRetail #ArtificialIntelligence #SupplyChain #RetailTechnology #AIFirst #RELEX #FutureOfRetail

Karl Strovink, CEO of Blue Bottle Coffee, discusses the brand's evolution, its commitment to quality and sustainability, and the innovative approaches being taken to redefine coffee experiences. He highlights the importance of community, the role of creativity in coffee culture, and the challenges posed by climate change. Strovink also shares insights on leadership and the significance of caring in building a better world.Takeaways:Blue Bottle Coffee is a leader in the specialty coffee segment.The brand is known for its commitment to quality and hospitality.James Freeman's artistic influence still shapes the coffee experience.Instant coffee can be made with specialty-grade coffee.Sustainability is a core value for Blue Bottle Coffee.Exploring alternative coffee varietals is essential for the future.Climate change poses significant challenges to coffee production.Blue Bottle achieved carbon neutrality in 2024.Dairy alternatives are becoming increasingly popular among consumers.Community engagement is crucial for successful expansion. Trends blowing West and East as they expand their footprint.Sound bites:“James Freeman brought artistic sensibility into the world of coffee.”“as a brand, Blue Bottle punches way above its weight. mean, we have anywhere from 15 to 30 % mass market awareness as a brand, but we occupy less than one half of 1 % share in the marketplace.”“We strongly believe that there's a better way with instant coffee and that instant can be specialty.”“It turns out that if you actually consider what can be done with those other varietals like Robusta, and treat them the way you do Arabica species, they can produce beautiful coffees.”“We did the hard work to actually baseline ourselves to understand our footprint across the value chain from green coffee all the way through to our offices.”“We've shifted our sourcing in certain places around the world to favor more regenerative, more healthy soil systems, farms, and farming practices.”“Many guests were preferring oat milk. So we just said, why don't we just lean into it?”“We're down something like two thirds in our emissions intensity around electricity around the world from the US to China and Japan.”“We in the US made the call in 2020 to be a primarily a work from home, remote workforce. Ss you can imagine, emissions intensity goes down from that.”"We want to scale with distinction."“We're repositioning the coffee category towards an East-West axis.”“Coffee is about building community, not just harvesting of business opportunities.”Links:Karl Strovink on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karl-strovink-9852a517/Blue Bottle Coffee - https://bluebottlecoffee.com/us/engBlue Bottle Coffee on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluebottlecoffeeBlue Bottle Coffee on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluebottleBlue Bottle Coffee on X - https://x.com/bluebottleroastBlue Bottle Coffee on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyki4e6RG84BT_xzi4oYkRw…A CEO for All Seasons, Book by Kurt Strovink (and others) - https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/mckinsey-on-books/ceo-for-all-seasonsAmerican Nations, Book by Colin Woodard - https://colinwoodard.com/books/american-nations/…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_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Blue Bottle Coffee08:04 The Evolution of James Freeman's Role10:54 Innovations from the Blue Bottle Studio13:39 Quality and Technology in Instant Coffee18:21 Securing the Future of Coffee22:27 Exploring Coffee Varietals Beyond Arabica26:46 Achieving Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability Goals33:10 The Shift to Oat Milk and Consumer Preferences37:11 East Meets West: Blue Bottle's Global Expansion41:56 Bridging Cultures: The East-West Connection42:43 Uniformity vs. Localization in Coffee44:19 Crafting Unique Experiences: The Blue Bottle Journey45:48 Balancing Innovation and Tradition49:46 Strategic Growth: Expanding with Distinction52:06 Word of Mouth: Building a Loyal Customer Base55:34 Lessons from Converse: Brand Stewardship and Leadership01:00:37 The Balance of Profit and Purpose01:04:03 Caring for Community: Building a Better WorldSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Karl and Erum sit down with Amy Trejo and Jose Carlos Garcia Garcia from Procter & Gamble to uncover how one of the world's largest consumer goods companies is leveraging biotechnology to innovate at unprecedented scale. Founded 189 years ago as a bio-waste upcycling partnership between a candle maker and a soap maker, P&G has always been rooted in biomaterials innovation—from pioneering laundry enzymes in the 1960s to developing cold water enzyme technologies that have saved billions in energy costs. Amy and JC reveal what makes biotech innovations stick in the marketplace (hint: it's all about performance), share candid advice for startups hoping to partner with P&G, and explain why the company views biotech as a critical enabler of both sustainability and superior consumer experiences. They discuss common misconceptions about working with large CPG companies, the importance of reducing ideas to practice, and how P&G's connect-and-develop model creates win-win partnerships that can impact billions of consumers worldwide. Whether you're a biotech founder, investor, or enthusiast curious about how innovative materials make it from lab to everyday products, this conversation offers rare insights into the intersection of consumer goods, biotechnology, and global scale manufacturing.Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.messaginglab.com/groweverything⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Chapters:(00:00:00) - Introduction and Opening Remarks(00:01:00) - Erum's Article on Industrial Biomanufacturing for Lichen Ventures(00:04:00) - The Vision of Boom Towns and Interplanetary Innovation(00:07:00) - Introduction to Amy Trejo and JC Garcia Garcia from P&G(00:11:00) - Amy and JC's Backgrounds and Roles at P&G(00:13:00) - Biotech Innovations Throughout P&G's 189-Year History(00:19:00) - What Makes Biotech Innovations Stick: Performance Over Everything(00:22:00) - Biggest Misconceptions About Partnering with Large CPG Companies(00:29:00) - How to Approach P&G: Show Product, Generate Data, Demonstrate Performance(00:31:00) - The Power of Reapplication Across Product Categories(00:35:00) - Successful Biotech Partnerships: SK-II, Align, New Chapter, Base Camp Research(00:39:00) - What Catches P&G's Attention at Conferences and Trade Shows(00:42:00) - The Role of Storytelling in Biotech Innovation and Consumer Engagement(00:47:00) - Five-Year Vision: The Future of CPG and Biotech Partnerships(00:49:00) - One Piece of Advice for Biotech Innovators: Reduce Ideas to Practice(00:52:00) - Quickfire Questions with Amy and JC(00:53:00) - Closing Thoughts: Impacting Billions of Lives Through Partnership(00:54:00) - Karl and Erum's Recap and Key TakeawaysLinks and Resources:Procter & Gamble (P&G)P&G Connect + DevelopP&G PartnershipsStellar: A World Beyond Limits and How To Get ThereIndustrial Biomanufacturing Needs Its Manhattan Project Moment by Erum Azeez Khan107. Glow Big or Go Home: Andy Bass's Journey with Glowing Oceans17. Beauty and the Biome with Jasmina Aganovic of ArcaeaTopics Covered: biotech, industry, biomanufacturing, bioprocessing, agriculture, agritech, strain engineering, biotech R&D, feedstocks, chemical engineering, bioengineeringHave a question or comment? Message us here:Text or Call (804) 505-5553 Music by: Nihilore Production by:  Amplafy Media

Netflix says ads are booming—but are viewers actually watching more? Kate Scott-Dawkins and Jeff Foster dig into Netflix's latest earnings: ~$3B in projected ad revenue for 2026, 325M paid memberships, and a surprisingly modest lift in hours watched. We unpack what that gap could mean for advertisers, why big IP (including Warner Bros. Discovery/WBD) suddenly looks even more valuable, and where Netflix may go next on content and sports.Plus: what P&G's results suggest about a more disciplined year for CPG ad spend, the latest on TikTok's new U.S. ownership structure (and the still-open questions around the algorithm), and OpenAI/ChatGPT testing ads—with an early focus on transparency and user control.We explore:Netflix's 2026 ad revenue guidance (~$3B) and what it takes to scale a young ad business.Why 96B hours watched in 2H 2025 only grew ~2%—and the “attention per member” problem.Content strategy and competition: ~$18B implied 2026 content spend, sports optionality, and the pull of major franchise libraries (WBD).P&G earnings and why the company isn't planning a big media ramp—what that signals for CPG budgets in 2026.TikTok's U.S. divestment outcome: who owns what, what likely stays the same for advertisers, and how pressure is rising on social platforms globally.OpenAI begins testing ads: early guardrails, what “AI-native” advertising could look like, and why this launch matters.Chapters:00:00 – Intro: Netflix, P&G, TikTok U.S. deal, OpenAI ads00:42 – Netflix: ad revenue forecast to double to ~$3B in 202601:51 – Netflix: 325M paid memberships (first update in a year)02:20 – Engagement: 96B hours watched in 2H 2025 and what it implies04:29 – Content + sports: 2026 spend plans and rights questions07:30 – The hardware challenge: Netflix vs OS-controlled platforms08:38 – P&G: growth, pricing, category performance, and ad spend tone12:32 – TikTok: new U.S. ownership structure and open algorithm questions16:12 – Social pressure: under-16 bans, lawsuits, and brand risk20:29 – OpenAI/ChatGPT: testing ads, transparency, and what's next25:27 – Weekend recommendations: AI reads/listens28:41 – Next week preview: key earnings to watch29:00 – Closing + contact

In this episode, Shray Joshi, founder of Good Peeps, discusses the shift to retail media and the importance of digital retail marketing for CPG brands. He explains the concept of a retail media network and how it encompasses third-party marketplaces, retailer. coms, and underlying technology platforms.Shray shares strategies for driving retail traffic, such as sponsored search, paid ads, and influencer content. He emphasizes the significance of organic influencer partnerships and collaborations in building brand awareness. Shray also highlights the challenges of media attribution and the need for better integration across different retail channels.‍TAKEAWAYSDigital retail marketing is a crucial aspect of CPG brands' marketing strategies, with retail media networks playing a significant role.Retail media networks include third-party marketplaces, retailer.coms, and underlying technology platforms that offer advertising opportunities.Strategies for driving traffic to retail include sponsored search, paid ads, and influencer content.Organic influencer partnerships and collaborations are effective in building brand awareness and driving traffic to retail.Media attribution remains a challenge in the retail industry, and better integration across different retail channels is needed.‍​​Where to find Shray Joshi: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shrayjoshi​Website: https://www.thepeeps.co/ ‍Where to find Kait Stephens:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kait-margraf-stephens/Website: www.brij.it ‍SUBSCRIBE TO THE OMNICHANNEL MARKETERwww.theomnichannelmarketer.com

In this episode, I talk about the idea of the "Individual Empire" and why Mr. Beast is the absolute best example of this new reality. I break down his inspiring journey of building an empire through content and his CPG brand. His success signals about the future of creator-owned IP versus the traditional studio model. I also share the current platforms and mediums where attention is still underpriced for those looking to build their own legacy.You'll learn about:Why the creator is the empireThe underpriced attention opportunities in live streamingWhy I believe Mr. Beast is a "preview, not the anomaly"How the algorithm is the report card for the audienceThe significance of Beast Games and what it means for Hollywood

Abe Kamarck is the founder and CEO of True Made Foods, the clean-label ketchup and BBQ sauce brand made with real vegetables instead of added sugar. On this episode of ITS, Abe shares his experiences with Ali as True Made Foods has lived through the full arc of modern startup CPG: The go-go growth years, over expansion, broken partnerships, logistics chaos, and the hard work of cutting back to get profitable.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For the last eight years, I've publicly shared my conviction around “relaxation” building into the next functional CPG frontier, due to the growing consumer demand from today's overstimulated (especially younger) generations for products that enhance mental wellness, support relaxation and stress relief, and enable alcohol moderation. Also, during that same timeframe…I've highlighted only one single brand (repeatedly) which I believed could become the “Red Bull of Relaxation,” effectively pioneering a category counterbalancing the $26 billion U.S. energy drinks market built on stimulation. “Take a Recess.” And it might be corny to make this comparison but hearing that Recess brand tagline was like a Jerry McGuire “you had me at hello” moment. Regardless, it became super apparent to me that founder (Ben Witte) truly understood Recess would only have a chance at becoming the definitive household name in modern relaxation if the selling formula started with emotion. Obviously, there's A LOT of other internal/external business dynamics ultimately at play…and the Recess story hasn't been without twists, turns, and challenges, but recently it's entering a fundamentally new chapter. So, I was honored when (right after) its $30 million Series B fundraising (and associated leadership hiring) news was released…I got a text message from Ben Witte asking if I'd be interested in hosting himself and Kyle Thomas for their first official recorded Co-CEO fireside chat together. As you'd imagine, in an effort to best help them share the nuanced business story of how Recess is scaling into the next iconic modern beverage company…it required a wide-reaching strategic conversation, but one that undoubtedly will provide insightful nuggets across every corner of the CPG industry.

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we're excited to welcome Nicolas Christiaen, CEO and co-founder of Donna, the AI assistant revolutionizing the lives of field sales teams. Ben Murray sits down with Nicolas Christiaen (introduced as Nicolas in the episode) to dive into Donna's journey from inception in late 2023 to its rapid growth and latest $5 million seed round. You'll hear how Donna leverages AI to boost sales rep productivity, seamlessly integrates with CRMs, and is gaining traction across verticals like medical devices, CPG, manufacturing, and insurance. Nicolas Christiaen reveals their data-driven approach to finding ideal customer segments, lessons learned from fast-paced fundraising, and why partnerships with global consulting firms like Deloitte and PwC are fueling their go-to-market strategy. If you're keen to learn about what's driving growth for AI-powered SaaS, how to balance vertical focus, and why healthy SaaS margins are still possible with AI, this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Tune in to find out how Donna is scaling up in 2026 and what's next for this ambitious SaaS startup! Show Notes: 00:00 "Sales, Efficiency, and Acquisition" 05:05 "Adapting AI for Industry Needs" 06:45 "24/7 AI Assistant Support" 10:14 "Global Launch Leads to Growth" 14:59 "Early Success with Partners" 19:18 "Outbound Strategy with Multi-Channel Approach" 22:08 AI Costs Will Decrease Over Time 23:50 AI Companies Will Streamline Operations Links: Nicolas Christiaen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaschristiaen/ Donna's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/donna-by-dealside Donna's Website: https://www.askdonna.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

If your brand feels too small to matter, this blueprint shows why that might be your unfair advantage.In this episode of Sharkpreneur, Seth Greene interviews Mark Rampolla, Co-Founder and Co-Managing Partner at GroundForce Capital, who unpacks how a niche idea became a global category. Mark shares the strategy that took ZICO from yoga studios in NYC to nationwide shelves, the discipline behind constant pitching and fundraising, and why exits aren't the finish line. He also discusses his new book on putting freedom first, and his work at Ground Force Capital (backer of brands like Liquid Death and Beyond Meat), helping founders scale both their companies and their lives.Key Takeaways:→ Why “inch-wide, mile-deep” focus beats broad launches for breakthrough CPG growth.→ How pairing a product with a specific usage occasion (post-hot yoga) created early traction.→ The surprising first hurdle: taste—and how “preach to the choir” accelerates momentum.→ Fundraising reality: why you either get profitable fast or get great at raising—continuously.→ The nine-year “overnight success” mindset and the decade-long horizon most wins require.Mark Rampolla is Co-Founder and Co-Managing Partner at GroundForce Capital (GFC), where he works closely with founders and teams to build impactful businesses. He has represented GFC on the boards of leading companies, including Vive Organic, OWYN, Liquid Death, Kinder Farms, Flying Embers, and ZICO Rising. Prior to GFC, Mark founded and served as CEO of ZICO Beverages, pioneering the coconut water category and growing the brand into a global leader before its acquisition by The Coca-Cola Company in 2013. Earlier in his career, he held senior management roles at International Paper, overseeing joint ventures across Latin America and the Caribbean. A Peace Corps alum, Mark has advised more than 100 CEOs, raised over $1B, and invested in 40+ social-impact startups. He is the author of High-Hanging Fruit and holds degrees from Marquette University and Duke University.Connect With Mark:Website: https://www.markrampolla.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markrampolla/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksrampolla/

Hey Brave Table fam! We're celebrating 400 episodes, and I'm going all in with you.This isn't your average highlight reel. It's the real story of what it took to build my latest company — from scratch — while navigating motherhood, business pivots, product failures, and a whole lot of late-night decision-making (with chai in hand, of course).In this raw and real solocast, I'm walking you through the exact breakdown behind the scenes of launching Chai Tonics, my new wellness CPG brand. You'll hear how I fired 4 formulators, got rejected 27 times before landing a dream book deal, and what I've actually learned from 400 episodes of this show.This episode is for every woman with a vision, especially if you're building something new, wondering if it's all worth it, or navigating the tension between ambition, motherhood, and identity.What you'll get out of this episode… The biggest mindset shift that helped me move from idea to launchHow to make decisions when everything feels uncertainThe power of “letting go” to receive moreWhy success isn't a straight line (and what to do when things go wrong)The real cashflow & time challenges no one talks aboutWhat's next for The Brave Table, Chai Tonics, and this communityThis Episode is Sponsored by Chai TonicsStarting the year without pressure? Same. I'm choosing ritual over resolution with Chai Tonics — a calming chai ritual for focus, gentle energy, and nervous-system support when January feels loud. Try it at https://bit.ly/trychaitonics  and use code BRAVETABLE for 15% off.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by John frost, Chief Customer Officer at Chobani, Find John Frost on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-frost-20963155/Find Chobani on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chobani/Find Chobani online at: https://www.chobani.com/Here's what we asked John:John, let's start with your journey. What path led you to Chobani, and how has your experience at Frito-Lay and PepsiCo shaped your perspective as Chief Customer Officer?The Chief Customer Officer role is all about building deep partnerships. How do you define retail customer centricity at Chobani, and how does it show up in your day-to-day?Chobani has grown from disrupting yogurt to becoming a modern  food and beverage company. How do you balance staying true to the brand's roots while  expanding into new categories?Innovation is at the heart of Chobani's DNA. How do you align with retail partners to ensure that innovation lands successfully with shoppers?Chobani has always led with purpose, from food made better to community impact. How does that purpose translate into customer partnership and retail collaboration?Consumer today demand more authenticity & transparency from brands. How is Chobani meeting those expectations in ways that build both brand equity and customer trust?Looking out to 2026, what excites you most about the future of food, beverage, and retail partnerships?For emerging leaders in CPG, what advice would you give on building trust, driving results, and being an effective customer-first leader?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comSheCOMMERCE Website: https://shecommercepodcast.com/Rhea Raj's Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/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.

David Lester is the co-founder of OLIPOP, one of the MOST FAMOUS challenger brands in the United States. After our first interview IN PERSON at Bread & Jam Fest, London, David returns to us at Brand Growth Heroes to delve deeper into what it truly takes to scale a challenger brand at speed in the US. (cont'd below)============================================================The Brand Growth Heroes Mini MBA 2026 is back!Built for founders, marketers and brand leaders who want to grow brands the right way — with practical frameworks, real case studies and honest insight.Applications open: Monday 5th January 2026Applications close SOON: Midnight Sunday, 25th January 2026Limited places availableAll info & how to apply visit: https://www.brandgrowthheroes.com/mini-mba-2026============================================================(Cont'd) In this episode, David and I explore how businesses fundamentally change as they grow from a small founding team to an organisation of 250+ people. David shares why founders must constantly reassess their role as the company scales, how to think about hiring ahead of growth, and why senior hires should create an immediate sense of relief rather than uncertainty.The conversation also dives into fundraising across different stages of growth, with David unpacking what investors really care about at seed, Series A, B and C, why growth becomes the defining metric once revenue appears, and why raising more capital than you think you need can be a smart strategic move.Finally, David shares his perspective on expanding into the US, explaining why the scale, complexity and cost of the market are so often underestimated and why each state effectively operates like its own country.This episode is packed with practical insight for founders building teams, raising capital and navigating rapid growth especially those with ambitions to scale in the US.Useful linksConnect with David Lester on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-lester-4b71b512/Connect with OLIPOP on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/olipop-pbc/OLIPOP WEBSITE https://drinkolipop.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooJ-CAEJQJEk4PaYpk7F5mOj0_nDbLy5H5PWaqed1idZWDd50NWFollow OLIPOP on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drinkolipop/Follow OLIPOP on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/drinkolipop========================================================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 you to 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 for the second year running.If you'd like to get in touch to find out more, why don't you drop them a line at hello@joelsonlaw.com==============================================.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.

Burlap & Barrel didn't chase scale – and that's why it's winning. In this episode, Ori Zohar, co-founder and co-CEO of the single-origin spice brand, explains how resisting the urge to go mass, staying profitable, and focusing on quality and relationships helped build a durable CPG brand. Show notes: 0:25: Ori Zohar, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Burlap & Barrel – Ori joins Ray at the inaugural Winter FancyFaire* in San Diego, where the entrepreneur recounts his long friendship with Burlap & Barrel co-founder Ethan Frisch and their first business, a socially driven ice cream cart. He explains how Frisch's work in international development and frustrations with nonprofit impact, and his own disillusionment with venture capital, helped spur the creation of Burlap & Barrel. Ori talks about the founders' emphasis on a bootstrapped, values-driven approach and direct trade, trust-based farmer relationships. He highlights early validation from chefs, followed by a pivotal New York Times mention. Ori discusses the brand's focus on DTC e-commerce, thoughtful media relationships, and an educational approach that demystified spices as agricultural products. He also explains how the company has maintained profitability without outside investors, pays premium prices to its partner farmers, positions itself as a "third wave" spice company and how it evaluates collaborations with other CPG brands. Brands in this episode: Burlap & Barrel, Rancho Gordo, Anjali's Cup

Points of discussion:1. How we rebranded Cowbell Brewing [Full Case Study]-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 9,500+ food and bev industry pros who are subscribed to the Beer Branding Trends Newsletter (and access all past issues) at: www.beerbrandingtrends.com 

Andreas Remis joins the podcast to unpack low back pain in a way that finally makes sense — bridging APTA CPG classifications, real-world clinical diagnosis, and the confusing world of radiographic findings.As faculty across multiple fellowships and residencies within the Duke Health System — and an educator shaped by his own poor rehab experience as a patient — Andreas brings a thoughtful, grounded approach to one of PT's most complex conditions.In this episode:• LBP classification: CPG vs imaging vs clinical reasoning• How expert clinicians simplify diagnosis• Why radiographs often mislead clinicians and patients• The turning point when PTs begin to feel “value-confident”• Teaching LBP across OMPT pipelines• Lessons Andreas learned from being a failed patientIt's a must-listen episode for clinicians, residents, and fellows treating low back pain.

Andrew Warburton from Peak Beverage Co. joins Phil and Kenny to share his journey building a premium fruit soda brand in BC's competitive beverage market. From launching with minimal research to now being in 175+ stores across Western Canada, Andrew opens up about the realities of scaling a local CPG brand.In this conversation, you'll hear about Peak's channel strategy—why food service and wineries have been their sweet spot, how Amazon opened up eastern markets without expensive direct-to-consumer shipping, and the importance of staying connected to customers through farmer's markets and demos. Andrew discusses navigating distributor relationships, managing seasonal fluctuations in the food and beverage industry, and why understanding your consumer and picking your spots matters more than being everywhere.Whether you're launching a beverage brand or scaling a local food product, Andrew's honest, practical approach to building Peak Beverage Co. offers valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, distribution strategy, and staying true to your brand. Thank you to LGDF Wholesale for sponsoring this episode. You can find them at: www.lgdfwholesale.comYou can find Andrew at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewwarburt0n/Check out Peak Beverage here: https://www.drinkpeak.ca/Buy it on Amazon here: Apple Rhubarb: https://a.co/d/eRoHXAPHaskap Lemonade: https://a.co/d/iXhD0XYTell us which one is your favourite here: https://www.instagram.com/thiscommercelife/

Wade and Gavin will be catching up solo this week! Topics will be anything and everything CPG - focusing on Winter Fancy Faire in San Diego!Some great conversation about Food Show follow up, tips, and suggestions.

In this episode, Joe Crane sits down with Ryan Hogan, a Navy veteran who transitioned from enlisted aircrewman to Surface Warfare Officer while building a career as an entrepreneur. With 15 years of active duty experience and a tenure in the Reserves, Ryan discusses the "trial-by-fire" lessons learned from early ventures like WarWear and Run For Your Lives, emphasizing the unique challenges of managing a business while serving on active duty. The conversation centers on Ryan's success as the co-founder of Hunt A Killer, the high-growth mystery game he eventually sold. He credits much of his scaling success to the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and peer-to-peer learning through Vistage, which helped him transition from a founder-led startup to a systems-driven organization. Following the sale, Ryan launched Talent Harbor to fix the inefficiencies he encountered in the hiring industry. He introduces the "Recruiting as a Service" (RaaS) model, which replaces traditional high-commission headhunting with a transparent, flat-fee monthly rate. By treating recruiting as a core operational competency rather than a one-off task, Ryan is now helping other founders build more efficient systems for finding and retaining top-tier talent. Episode Resources: Talent Harbor Ryan Hogan - LinkedIn   About Our Guest Prior to founding Talent Harbor, Ryan Hogan co-founded Hunt A Killer, a subscription-based interactive murder mystery experience. In 2019, Hunt A Killer was named by Fast Company as one of the World's Most Innovative Companies. In 2020, Inc Magazine named it the fastest-growing CPG company. Ryan started his career enlisting in the U.S. Navy as an MH-53E aircrewman, and transitioned to officer where he served as a Surface Warfare Officer onboard various warships. Along the way, Ryan founded WarWear and Run For Your Lives, honing the entrepreneurial skills that he would use in Hunt A Killer, and now Talent Harbor.   About Our Sponsors Navy Federal Credit Union   Navy Federal Credit Union offers exclusive benefits to all of their members. All Veterans, Active Duty and their families can become members. Have you been saving up for the season of cheer and joy that is just around the corner? With Navy Federal Credit Union's cashRewards and cashRewards Plus cards, you could earn a $250 cash bonus when you spend $2,500 in the first 90 days. Offer ends 1/1/26. You could earn up to 2% unlimited cash back with the cashRewards and cashRewards Plus cards. With Navy Federal, members have access to financial advice and money management and 24/7 access to award-winning service. Whether you're a Veteran of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force or Coast Guard, you and your family can become members. Join now at Navy Federal Credit Union. At Navy Federal, our members are the mission.      Join the conversation on Facebook! Check out Veteran on the Move on Facebook to connect with our guests and other listeners. A place where you can network with other like-minded veterans who are transitioning to entrepreneurship and get updates on people, programs and resources to help you in YOUR transition to entrepreneurship.   Want to be our next guest? Send us an email at interview@veteranonthemove.com.  Did you love this episode? Leave us a 5-star rating and review!  Download Joe Crane's Top 7 Paths to Freedom or get it on your mobile device. Text VETERAN to 38470. Veteran On the Move podcast has published 500 episodes. Our listeners have the opportunity to hear in-depth interviews conducted by host Joe Crane. The podcast features people, programs, and resources to assist veterans in their transition to entrepreneurship.  As a result, Veteran On the Move has over 7,000,000 verified downloads through Stitcher Radio, SoundCloud, iTunes and RSS Feed Syndication making it one of the most popular Military Entrepreneur Shows on the Internet Today.

In this Omni Talk Retail episode, recorded live from NRF 2026, Mike Wier, Vice President of Store Brands at CVS, joins Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton to discuss how CVS is rethinking private brands as a core growth engine across health, wellness, and everyday convenience. Mike explains what it means to run store brands like a “mini CEO,” overseeing product development, sourcing, branding, and growth across a 9,000-store footprint. With most CVS customers shopping quick, mission-driven trips, the conversation focuses on how simplicity, clarity, and trust at the shelf are shaping CVS's private brand strategy. Looking ahead, Mike outlines his vision for CVS private brands evolving beyond the store, becoming trusted consumer brands that extend outside of CVS's four walls and operate more like modern CPG companies. Key Topics Covered: -What it means to lead private brands as a “mini CEO” inside CVS -Why CVS simplified dozens of brands into a focused brand portfolio How short, mission-driven trips shape private brand strategy -Repositioning the CVS brand for health, wellness, and trust -Packaging simplification and shelf clarity as competitive advantages -Competing with national brands in wellness and everyday essentials -Why CVS private brands may expand beyond CVS stores -How private brands are becoming long-term growth platforms Thank you to Vusion for supporting Omni Talk Retail's NRF 2026 coverage, and thank you to our listeners for following along throughout the show. #NRF2026 #CVS #PrivateBrands #StoreBrands #RetailStrategy #HealthAndWellness #RetailBranding #RetailInnovation #OmniTalkRetail

While every non-alcoholic brand is shouting Dry January, Recess is telling you to quit. Literally. Joining us is Ben Witte, CEO and co-founder of the #1 mocktail brand, to unpack a provocative new campaign that swaps all-or-nothing resolutions for something far more realistic: balance. From a bold manifesto to a full-page New York Times ad timed for “Quitter's Day,” Ben explains why going against the seasonal grain isn't risky—it's exactly why Recess is winning. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why moderation—not elimination—is the real shift happening in drinking culture How going against category conventions can create sharper brand differentiation What most brands get wrong about Dry January and behavior change How narrative-driven branding builds permission to expand into new categories Why “do the unexpected” is more than a creative idea—it's a leadership strategy Episode Chapters (00:00) Why Recess Is Telling People to Quit (01:00) The Myth of Sober Curious and the Rise of Moderation (04:30) Why Dry January Is Losing Relevance (06:45) Anti-Perfectionism as Brand Strategy (09:45) The Hidden Downsides of Rules and Streaks (13:00) Naming, Narrative, and Building Red Bull for Relaxation (18:00) Knowing When to Push Against Conventional Wisdom (25:00) Brands That Make Us Smile About Ben Witte Ben Witte is the CEO and co-founder of Recess, a leading functional beverage company built around the idea of calm, balance, and taking a break from modern stress. Coming from a Silicon Valley background rather than traditional CPG, Ben has consistently challenged category norms—shifting the conversation from sobriety to moderation and from ingredients to outcomes. Under his leadership, Recess has grown into a category-defining brand spanning mocktails, mood drinks, and relaxation-focused products sold nationwide. What Brand Has Made Ben Smile Recently? Ben points to a Thanksgiving campaign from Tito's Handmade Vodka that flipped the familiar “Turkey Trot” on its head with the idea of a “Turkey Rot”—leaning into cultural truth with humor and self-awareness. The campaign stood out by inverting expectations, tapping into real behavior, and reminding us that the best brand moments often come from saying the quiet part out loud. Resources & Links Check out the Recess website and their Amazon store. Recess on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/recess Connect with Ben Witte on LinkedIn and X. Listen & Support the Show Watch or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon/Audible, TuneIn, and iHeart. Rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to help others find the show. Share this episode — email a friend or colleague this episode. Sign up for my free Story Strategies newsletter for branding and storytelling tips. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I'll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we explore the rising threat of privacy lawsuits hitting e-commerce and CPG brands. Richart Ruddie, Founder of Captain Compliance, explains how new legal technologies are helping attorneys target smaller businesses for tracking pixel violations. He shares how brands can protect themselves by automating compliance, fixing broken consent banners, and staying ahead of rapidly changing state and federal laws to avoid massive legal fees.Topics discussed in this episode:  Why privacy lawsuits target CPG brands. How AI tech speeds up legal claims. What tracking pixels cause the most risk. Why common consent banners often fail. How session replay tools invite litigation. What 20 state laws mean for merchants. Why blocking EU traffic isn't enough. How automated portals handle data requests. What litigation protection shields offer. Links & Resources Website: https://captaincompliance.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richartruddie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@captain-complianceGet access to more free resources by visiting the show notes at https://tinyurl.com/mv6f5jj2______________________________________________________ LOVE THE SHOW? HERE ARE THE NEXT STEPS! Follow the podcast to get every bonus episode. Tap follow now and don't miss out! Rate & Review: Help others discover the show by rating the show on Apple Podcasts at https://tinyurl.com/ecb-apple-podcasts Join our Free Newsletter: https://newsletter.ecommercecoffeebreak.com/ Support The Show On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EcommerceCoffeeBreak Partner with us: https://ecommercecoffeebreak.com/partner-with-us/

Who's better at making functional foods, functional beverages, and/or nutritional supplements taste the best…certified flavor chemists or famous chefs? Unless you're an industry insider like me that truly understands the rarity of certified flavor chemists is equivalent to Master Sommeliers, you most likely believe famous chefs would be able to create the best-tasting products. And I totally get…food television and social media have transformed chefs from behind-the-scenes professionals to household names and cultural influencers. And functional CPG brands are starting to realize they can successfully leverage famous chefs' skills, personality, and culinary philosophies to help differentiate themselves in crowded product categories. So, welcome to the “chef-partnered era” of functional CPG products. Most recently, we've seen IQBAR partner with Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller and Premier Protein collaborate with the iconic Christina Tosi and her team at Milk Bar. And saving the best for last…Robert Irvine was instrumental in creating FITCRUNCH protein bars that recently was acquired by 1440 Foods.

In an era of college football where bowl games don't matter anymore, it seems CPG brand marketers didn't get that memo! Imagine a world where fans are showing up (or watching at home) not just for the sport but the title sponsor's brand experience! In what has become a marketing platform for some of the wackiest shareable moments in recent memory…a select group has mastered how to turn passive viewers of college football postseason into active participants in their brand stories. But as another college football postseason ends, I wanted to quickly provide a tier ranking of every bowl game that had a CPG brand as the title sponsor, which includes the Bucked Up LA Bowl, Bush's Boca Raton Bowl of Beans, Pop-Tarts Bowl, Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl, Kinder's Texas Bowl, Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl, Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, and Duke's Mayo Bowl. And my tier ranking will be based solely around how effective these sponsors were at creating brand-driven spectacles. Lastly, and this has little to do about dissecting the marketing strategies of CPG brands…but why not play these “bowl games” in the first week of the season. I'm not sure the college football teams participating would actively embrace the current-level of brand-driven spectacles…but it would certainly bring immense meaning back to those games. But in the end, maybe attention doesn't materially change either way in today's online sports betting and prediction markets era.

Isabel Washington is the Founder and CEO of Laurel's Coffee, the fast-growing RTD latte brand made with organic, regenerative A2 dairy. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Isabel talk about balancing conflicting consumer preferences, building for existing rituals, and the first thing you learn as a McKinsey consultant.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Change how you look at unsold inventory in this episode with Amrita Bhasin of Sotira, joining the show to break down how poor inventory forecasting is crushing CPG brands, why nearly a quarter of all retail and e-commerce inventory never sells, and how excess inventory liquidation has become one of the biggest supply chain challenges today! We dive deeper into how Sotira is using AI to power a tech-driven reverse logistics marketplace that connects sellers, buyers, and donation partners while protecting brand equity, enforcing expiration and regional compliance laws, and improving recovery rates, how integrated freight optimization APIs help control transportation costs, why mismanaged forecasting leads to millions in deadstock, and how smarter liquidation strategies can reduce waste, unlock tax benefits, and keep inventory moving.   About Amrita Bhasin Amrita Bhasin is the co-founder and CEO of Sotira, an award winning reverse logistics company that enables retailers, manufacturers and brands to discreetly monetize and donate unsold inventory.  Amrita was named to the 2026 Forbes 30 under 30 list and the 2025 Mayfield AI List. Amrita has been invited to speak on national and international broadcast networks including CBS, Fox, ABC, Scripps, and CGTN and has been profiled in Forbes, TechCrunch, and Business Insider. She is regularly quoted as an expert by leading publications such as Reuters, Bloomberg, Wired, Fortune, CNBC, Glossy, Huffington Post, Sourcing Journal, Reader's Digest, Modern Retail, AP, Yahoo Finance, and FreightWaves. Amrita has spoken about reverse logistics at leading conferences and trade shows such as TechCrunch Disrupt 2024, Home Delivery World 2025, HumanX 2025, ReTHINK Retail 2025 and Groceryshop 2025. Amrita was a delegate speaker at the 2025 One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany. She is an upcoming speaker at Manifest 2026 and Food Waste Summit 2026.  Amrita was a 1st place winner at Shoptalk 2025 and 1st place winner at Reverse Logistics Conference and Expo 2025. Amrita has been recognized by the State of California and Stop Waste for contributions to reducing enterprise waste via reverse logistics automation.   Connect with Amrita LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amrita-bhasin/  Website: https://www.sotira.co/  Email: amrita@sotira.co  

Welcome to a new type of episode where we sit down with some celebrities of our industry to find out where they grew up, what they did before this. What passions, activities and how they spend their time having fun outside of Ecommerce and Retail. We hope everyone enjoys getting to know Martin Heubel better. Martin has been the leading voice on LinkedIn for Amazon Vendors for many years now and has a very successful consulting business working with some of the biggest and best CPG companies in the world. Martin created his company Consulterce before the pandemic after he spent 5 years as a Vendor Manager and then Sr. Category Manager in the CPG space at Amazon. He talks about his childhood, some jobs you will never imagine and how he was drawn to tech and Amazon. Not to mention his music choices might surprise you! Enjoy Always Off Brand is always a Laugh & Learn!    FEEDSPOT TOP 10 Retail Podcast! https://podcast.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/?feedid=5770554&_src=f2_featured_email Guest: Martin Heubel  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinheubel/ Website: https://consulterce.com/ 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 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.  

"The value you get out of Zucca and all the things it can do is far cheaper than what it would take to hire another person or hire an external consultant to do that work." —Karen Huh   Building a CPG product should not feel like juggling spreadsheets at midnight. Teams lose time, money, and clarity when formulas, costs, and decisions are scattered across multiple locations. This conversation confronts that reality head-on and addresses why speed and focus are crucial in the food, beverage, and supplement industries right now. Karen Huh shares how two decades in CPG at companies shaped her view of broken product development workflows. That experience led her to build Zucca, an AI-powered operating system designed to unify how CPG teams ideate, formulate, cost, and scale products. Listen to hear how modern CPG teams are using AI to work smarter and move faster. Building an AI-powered operating system for CPG product development Why product launches break down as brands grow How AI supports formulation, costing, and iteration Reducing time to scale-ready formulas Collaboration and single source of truth for CPG teams Using AI as a teammate, not a replacement What founders misunderstand about AI and speed The future of AI in food and beverage innovation   Meet Karen:  Karen Huh is the co-founder and CEO of Zucca, an innovative operating system for product development in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, powered by AI. With over 20 years of experience, Karen has held leadership roles at Starbucks and numerous venture-backed brands, building a strong track record in product innovation and business development. Drawing on her in-depth knowledge of CPG workflows, she is dedicated to streamlining and unifying product development processes through advanced technology. Karen leads a diverse, expert-driven team at Zucca, helping brands of all sizes create, manage, and scale products more efficiently. Website  LinkedIn   Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube   Episode Highlights: 02:12 What Inspired Zucca 05:32 Early Exposure to AI  11:24 Challenges and Surprises in AI Development 16:30 Zucca's Unique Features and Benefits 19:02 User Experience and Implementation  24:59 Impact on CPG Companies 28:12 Customer Success Stories     30:47 Accessibility and Pricing   

This episode is brought to you by Novi. Novi is the infrastructure powering brand growth in AI commerce. By connecting brands, certification bodies, and major retailers, Novi ensures verified product data is accurate, consistent, and surfaced where shoppers and AI models search, turning credibility into authority, visibility, and conversion. Learn more at noviconnect.com As we look ahead to the next holiday season, will your marketing strategy even matter if an AI agent is making the final recommendation for the consumer? Agility requires more than just the latest AI tools. It sometimes requires fundamentally re-engineering how your brand earns visibility and trust in an algorithm-driven world. It demands a shift from winning clicks on a search page to becoming the definitive answer for an AI agent. Today, we're going to talk about how agentic AI is quietly becoming the new gatekeeper between brands and consumers, radically changing e-commerce discovery and purchase behavior, especially in the CPG and retail space. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome, Kimberly Shenk, CEO at Novi, our Resident Expert on AI-Driven Commerce. Kimberly, welcome to the show! About Kimberly Shenk Kimberly Shenk is co-founder and CEO of Novi, a technology company that helps CPG brands and retailers ensure consumers can easily discover and select their products when using AI assistants to shop. A serial tech entrepreneur, Shenk has led data science teams at early and midstage startups such as Eventbrite, Domino Data Labs and NakedPoppy, where she was a co-founder and Head of Product. Before transitioning to the private sector, Shenk served as a United States Air Force Captain for five years, holding the chief data scientist position at the Pacific Air Force headquarters in Hawaii. She holds a BS from the U.S. Air Force Academy and an MS in data science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In 2025, she was named to the Inc. Female Founders 500 list for a second time. Kimberly Shenk on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyshenk/ Resources Novi: https://www.noviconnect.com/ This episode is brought to you by Novi. Novi is the infrastructure powering brand growth in AI commerce. By connecting brands, certification bodies, and major retailers, Novi ensures verified product data is accurate, consistent, and surfaced where shoppers and AI models search, turning credibility into authority, visibility, and conversion. Learn more at noviconnect.com Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Palm Springs, Feb 23-26 in Palm Springs, CA. Go here for more details: https://etailwest.wbresearch.com/Drive your customers to new horizons at the premier retail event of the year for Retail and Brand marketers. Learn more at CRMC 2026, June 1-3. https://www.thecrmc.com/ Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://ratethispodcast.com/agileConnect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company