Podcasts about cpg

In this episode, host Josh interviews Matt Altman, marketplace lead at Right Side Up, about advanced strategies for launching and scaling brands on Amazon. Matt shares actionable insights on budgeting for product launches, optimizing PPC campaigns by focusing on conversion rates, and leveraging Amazon's internal data tools. He emphasizes the importance of consistently launching new, non-competing products to avoid cannibalization and drive growth. The discussion concludes with practical takeaways for sellers aiming to scale, plus an offer for a free brand audit from Matt's agency, Right Side Up.Chapters:Introduction to Matt Altman and Right Side Up (00:00:00)Josh introduces Matt Altman, his background, and the success of his agency, Right Side Up.Current Product Launch Strategies on Amazon (00:00:31)Matt discusses effective modern tactics for launching new products and the importance of a sufficient launch budget.Budgeting for Product Launches (00:01:02)Explanation of current budget requirements, category selection, and why launch budgets have increased.Estimating Launch Budgets and Pre-Launch Data Collection (00:02:54)How to estimate launch budgets, use Amazon Ads, and gather pre-launch data using search query reports.Leveraging Search Query Performance Reports (00:04:14)Matt explains the value of Amazon's search query performance reports versus brand analytics.Keyword Targeting and PPC Campaign Setup (00:05:19)Details on targeting specific keywords, campaign types, and optimizing for conversion rates over ACOS/TACOS.ASIN Targeting and Relevancy Building (00:07:44)Using ASIN targeting campaigns to build relevancy for launch keywords and leveraging historical data.Scaling to Eight Figures and Beyond (00:08:09)Advice for established sellers on scaling, focusing on new product launches, and avoiding complacency.Avoiding Product Cannibalization and Diversifying Product Lines (00:10:41)Strategies to prevent keyword overlap, expand product lines, and increase brand reach without cannibalizing sales.Actionable Takeaways for Sellers (00:12:54)Josh summarizes three main takeaways: aggressive product launches, PPC optimization via conversion rates, and image optimization.Strategic Delegation and Removing Bottlenecks (00:15:04)Matt advises stepping back, identifying bottlenecks, and delegating to scale the business effectively.Conclusion and Free Audit Offer (00:16:20)Matt shares where listeners can learn more and offers a free audit for podcast listeners.Links and Mentions:ToolsRight Side UpAmazon Search Query ReportsBrand AnalyticsPacvueEcom AnalyticsData DiveTranscript:Josh 00:00:00  Today, I'm super excited to introduce you to Matt Altman. Matt leads the marketplace at right side up. Matt has over 12 years of selling experience. He's launched and sold multiple personal brands, all starting from a retail arbitrage budget. Four years ago, he started an agency right Side up to help high growth CPG brands focus on dominating the marketplace. They've been able to scale many brands from 0 to 3 million in monthly sales. Welcome to the podcast, Matt.Matt 00:00:29  Thanks for having me. Josh, how are you doing?Josh 00:00:31  Doing great. What are some of the key things that you, you advise or recommend when launching a brand new product on Amazon that are working today? Because, as you know, a lot of those black hat tactics, you know, have come and gone. you also have the, you know, the rebates that everybody was doing, and now it's kind of leveled the playing field a little bit more. Tell me what you're doing that's been working for you guys.Matt 00:00:55  Yeah. So first off, I think that the biggest thing is making sure you have a big enough budget to launch your products.Matt 00:01:02  like the days of 5 to $10,000 budgets to launch products are just gone in my eyes, at least in the spaces that I work in. so we usually overestimate our budgets by like 20 to 30% of what we actually think it would be just to make sure that we're in a good place in case it doesn't go the way that we want it to. but outside of that, we're looking for a couple of major things. one is we want to see continued growth in the category. Amazon's making that way easier now with like the search query reports, the product Opportunity Explorer. There's so many internal tools that they're giving you access to now that you can really easily find that. And then the other big thing that we're looking for is categories that you've got maybe like 3 or 4 power players in. And by power players they aren't really doing that much. They're still kind of growing, but they're ahead of like the other 20 items there. really it just kind of is showing us that, hey, there's enough sales to go around.Matt 00:02:01  If these four people can all kind of be around the same and customers really don't care which one they're choosing right now, they're just basically picking whichever ones at the top from what we can see. So yeah, we used to go into very heavy like categories where you would just, I mean, like launches would be half 1 million to $1 million. Wow. and if you could make them work. Yeah. The payback is amazing because of the volume that some of those categories do. But if you lose, like, it absolutely sucks. so for sure, what we're looking at like 50 to $75,000, to launch a product right now and the supplement space that we're kind of going after, and we've seen it, it's kind of the sweet spot for everything. so if we do find a product and we think it's going to cost more than that to actually launch it, we'll hold off for a bit and see if we can find some other ones that are within our kind of thresholds.Josh 00:02:53  That makes sense.Josh 00:02:54  So how do you estimate, you know, that budget, right. What's the difference between a half 1 million to $1 million product launch budget versus something that's 50 to $75,000? And how do you estimate that?Matt 00:03:07  Yeah. So the the biggest thing is ads. I mean, we've really in the last like three months, all of our launches have been almost exclusively on Amazon through Amazon Ads. so we're pulling averages of cost per clicks through the advertising API and really just looking at, okay, what is the conversion rate of the top products? If we wanted to spend to get that conversion rate on that keyword, like what would it cost us per day and working that backwards? the other big thing that I don't know anyone else that's kind of touched on this, but what we what we've been doing here recently is we have a seller account where we'll create the product beforehand. It's not the product that we're actually going to sell. We'll put some items as merchant fulfilled, and then we'll just have ourselves by the products.Matt 00:03:54  So that way we get all the search query report data for that product before we actually launch it.Josh 00:03:58  Oh, that's that's fascinating. So you do that in a separate account then? Is that what you're saying?Matt 00:04:03  We've been doing it in the same account, just like a different brand name. and throw up a listing merchant fulfilled and do a couple buys through it, and then you get all that data.Josh 00:04:14  Intere...

Melanie Bartelme is the associate director and global food analyst for Mintel's Premium Global Food & Drink Insights platform. On this episode of ITS, Melanie and Ali talk about food and beverage trends, what's happening with proteinification, what brands need to say out loud, and what consumers are looking for in today's uncertain world. Make sure to listen for a special discount at the end of the episode!Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, I sat down with Erin Meskers, Director of Brand at Brami, to talk about what it really means to build a food brand people feel connected to, not just buy from.We cover brand building, community, and the kind of marketing that makes people slow down and care. Erin shares how her work at Supergoop, Aviva, and Cadence shaped her approach to storytelling, and how those lessons now guide Brami's mission to bring Italy's food culture to the U.S.We get into everything from educating customers about lupini beans and building loyalty through authenticity, to launching at Costco and learning how to scale without losing soul. Plus, Erin opens up about her journey across brand, growth, and retail, and why empathy, curiosity, and care are at the center of every campaign she leads.If you're in the business of brand storytelling, community, or CPG growth, this episode will remind you that real connection always wins.Listen now for insight on marketing, brand experience, and what it takes to create a lifestyle around your product, one that's built on purpose, not pressure.Brami is currently hosting community events across the U.S., in New York, Seattle, Chicago, San Diego, and Atlanta.If you live in one of these cities, DM Erin or Brami to join one of their upcoming experiences.

In this conversation, Kevin Bayuk shares what inspired them to create the Next Economy MBA program, who it's for, and what the curriculum covers. We talk about the shortcomings of the existing MBA programs and the need for one that goes beyond basic ESG frameworks. Bayuk talks about how they've used participant feedback to continuously evolve the program, and how their alumni continue to stay engaged after graduating. We then talk about the Next Economy MBA book, which serves a nice introduction to topics in the program, the other technical assistance Lift Economy provides, and what new offerings are on the horizon. Kevin wraps up by sharing his vision of a better world.Takeaways:Lyft economy's mission to transform the very nature of the business as usual economy to an economy that works for the benefit of all life.The lack of options available for learning about impact business models beyond basic ESG frameworks.How the Next Economy MBA program was collaboratively developed.The ways in which the program has evolved over the years.Why they decided to write the Next Economy MBA book, and how it related to the program itself.Who tends to go through the MBA program, why, and where it leads them.The other technical assistance programs Lift Economy offers.Kevin's involvement in the Urban Permaculture Institute.Simplifying life can help you focus on what truly matters.Science fiction can inspire new ideas and perspectives.A world with no one left out is a worthy goal.Passion can drive meaningful change in society.Sound bites:“We got started by listening to what our stakeholders were interested in.”“Do it in ways that are distinct from the structures and patterns and norms of the exploitation-oriented, business-as-usual economy.”"It's an evolving service or product that continues to change every cohort based on participant feedback.”“We're now at about 800 people who have enrolled and participated in the training.”“It's really been kind of electrifying just to seeing the types of collaborations that can emerge.”“The book is a good way to get introduced to the core concepts.”"Explore the imagination landscape."“What would a world look like that works for everybody with no one left out.”“Try and simplify your life to make your needs as simple as possible to meet and then just stick with it.”“How do we orient our life design to reduce our costs of living and live more authentically in alignment with our values.”Links:Kevin Bayuk on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinbayuk/Lift Economy - https://www.lifteconomy.com/Lift Economy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifteconomy/Lift Economy on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LIFTEconomy/Lift Economy on X - https://x.com/lifteconomyLift Economy on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5D6TM2pOWwGNcxA-ucd-EgThe Next Economy MBA - https://go.lifteconomy.com/nextmbaBook: The Next Economy MBA - https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-next-economy-mba-redesigning-business-for-the-benefit-of-all-life-erin-axelrod/028990c9a162693fPodcast: Next Economy Now - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-economy-now-for-the-benefit-of-all-life/id1074584017See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Event menus don't start in the kitchen—they start with what's available in the marketplace. For smaller, emerging brands making allergen-friendly, plant-based, or health-focused products, breaking into retail shelves can be an uphill battle. But there's another path—one that not only scales faster, but also brings those products directly into the spaces where we eat, gather, and connect: foodservice. This week on Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE, I'm talking with Mike Levinson, RD, founder of FS Octopus and a leader in helping better-for-you CPG brands grow in hospitality, universities, business & industry, convenience, and beyond. With 25+ years in foodservice sales and strategy, Mike knows how brands can position themselves so their products show up in cafeterias, hotels, and restaurants—and ultimately, on our event menus. Together, we'll explore:

Is it really possible to build trust with customers in a business landscape overflowing with misinformation and emotional volatility? That burning question is at the heart of my conversation with Michael Forsberg, Director of Client Experience at BrandTrust. In an era many call "post-truth," business leaders face steep challenges in distinguishing what's real from what's noise—especially when it comes to understanding their customers' motivations. Michael's work focuses on uncovering the human truths and emotions driving decisions across industries from tech to healthcare to financial services. The impact? When brands neglect the emotional drivers beneath surface behaviors, they risk eroding loyalty, losing relevance, and missing out on real, meaningful relationships with their customers. Why should you listen to Michael Forsberg? Michael brings a rare combination of practical expertise, academic rigor (he's an MSU grad in Customer Experience Management and a former student in my class), and heartfelt real-world perspective. From navigating literal wildfires in Los Angeles to helping Fortune 500 brands reimagine their connection with customers, Michael understands both the stakes and the solutions for brands that want to break through "empathy gaps" and drive bottom-line results through emotional insight. Here are three essential questions Michael answers on the show: What do emotional inquiry and human truth really mean—and why do they matter for business leaders and marketers? Why is it so dangerous to rely exclusively on quantitative data when diagnosing customer challenges and designing solutions? What practical steps can organizations take to uncover emotional insights and apply them to improve experience, retention, and loyalty? Don't miss these eye-opening insights! Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform—just search for "Mark Slatin." Every episode is designed for leaders who want to move past the surface and start creating truly delighted customers. Meet Michael Forsberg Michael Forsberg is Director of Client Experience at BrandTrust, a leading brand strategy and research firm. Michael specializes in leveraging applied social sciences and behavioral economics to uncover the hidden emotional engines powering consumer decision-making. With expertise spanning tech, healthcare, CPG, financial services, and more, he partners with organizations to identify and address the core emotional narratives shaping their customers' behaviors. Michael began his career in advertising as part of a media agency before moving client-side at an international humanitarian organization, which gave him a global view of human needs and motivations. He has since spent over five years at BrandTrust, helping clients design emotional inquiry research, develop brand strategies, and drive meaningful organizational change grounded in deep emotional insight. Michael holds a Master of Science in Customer Experience Management from Michigan State University and brings real-world empathy to every conversation—something that started with his own experience of responding to wildfire evacuation in Los Angeles. Connect with Michael Forsberg on LinkedIn or learn more about his work at BrandTrust.com. Show Notes & References BrandTrust: brandtrust.com Emotional Inquiry Research Methodology: More on BrandTrust's approach Michael Forsberg's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelforsberg/ All Time restaurant in Los Angeles, CA (Michael's customer delight story): All Time on Hillhurst Michigan State University Customer Experience Management program: MSU CXM Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Available on all major podcast platforms

What if the secret to building a billion-dollar CPG brand isn't ads or influencers…but distribution? Nik sits down with Gulshan Kumar, CEO and Co-founder of Swishables, to break down how he turned a boring category like mouthwash into a confidence business. Gulshan shares how to find white space in crowded markets, build a brand moat before copycats show up, and scale through channels nobody else is looking at.  They get into: > How to think distribution-first instead of DTC-only > Why real scalability comes from where you sell, not what you sell > Turning a basic product into an emotional outcome people crave> How to win in retail without burning money > The metric founders should obsess over instead of ROAS This episode is a blueprint for founders who actually want to build a CPG business that scales, lasts, and makes consumers feel something. What's Instant? They're the secret weapon to triple your email revenue with AI-powered flows. Instead of blasting the same cart reminders to everyone, Instant ensure every shopper gets a unique email experience: Copy, products, and offers that adapt to your shopper's behavior in real time. Emails sent at the exact moment that shopper is most likely to buy. 11+ abandonment flows live in minutes. Book a demo by Nov. 28 to get 50% off your first 60 days. Make this BFCM your biggest one yet: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instant.one/limited⁠ Want more DTC advice? Check out the Limited Supply YouTube page for more insider tips.   Check out the Nik's DTC newsletter: https://bit.ly/3mOUJMJ   And if you're looking for an instant stream of on-demand DTC gold, check out the Limited Supply Slack Channel for Nik's most unfiltered, uncensored thoughts.   Follow Nik: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mrsharma

Ce mercredi 12 novembre, Rachel de Valicourt, directrice générale du pôle CGP du Groupe Premium, est revenue sur les principales forces en ce moment qui dynamisent le marché de la gestion de patrimoine et de l'activité de conseil, dans Tout pour investir L'Événement, dans l'émission Tout pour Investir, présentée par Antoine Larigaudrie. Tout pour Investir est à voir ou écouter du lundi au vendredi sur BFM Business.

✨ Rachel Kusin, Senior Director of Marketing at Skinny Dipped☁️ How Rachel pivoted from fast food to better-for-you snacks☁️ What it's really like being the first marketer at a startup☁️ Lessons from scaling Chameleon Cold-Brew to Nestlé acquisition☁️ Brand campaigns from The Last Crumb to Skinny Dipped☁️ Advice for navigating CPG as a scrappy, resourceful marketerJoin the Sky Society Women in Marketing private LinkedIn group.Follow Sky Society on Instagram @skysociety.co and TikTok @skysociety.co

Today I'm absolutely thrilled to have Olivia Ferdi, CEO and co-founder of TRIP, join us once again on fhe show.Since her last appearance on Brand Growth Heroes, TRIP has skyrocketed from around £14 million in annual sales to a projected $100 million this year.In this episode, Olivia shares with me how she and her team have achieved incredible growth, from blending CBD drinks in their kitchen as newlyweds to leading a global brand that's changing how we think about calm, wellbeing, and soft drinks. We talk about:How TRIP's super impressive recent raise came together and what it means for the next stage of growthExpansion and growth in the US markerBuilding a globalbrand around the feeling of calmThe power of consumer insight and innovation in scaling fastBalancing bold ambition with authenticity, motherhood, and leadershipHow Olivia herself has evolved from lawyer to founder and the hidden ‘superpowers' she's discovered along the way- and how you can find yours tooWhat struck me most in this conversation is Olivia's honesty about growth, instinct, and personal transformation. She reminds us that every one of us might have a hidden superpower we haven't yet discovered, and that's both liberating and exciting.If you enjoy this episode, please like, follow, or subscribe on your podcast app, and share it with a fellow founder or colleague who'll be inspired by Olivia's story.Useful linksTRIP websiteTRIP InstagramConnect with Olivia Ferdi on LinkedInConnect with TRIP on LinkedInFind out more about CALM: The #1 app for sleep, meditation and relaxation here============================================================Thanks to Brand Growth Heroes' podcast sponsor - Joelson, the commercial law firm=============================================================If you're a founder, you already know how much of your energy goes into building the perfect product, creating standout branding and connecting with your consumers.But don't forget that scaling a CPG business also comes with a maze of legal complexities that can make or break your business journey. From contracts, term sheets and regulatory compliance to protecting your brand's intellectual property as you expand, it's essential to get it right.And that starts with the right legal partner.So we're thrilled to introduce Joelson, a leading commercial law firm that specialises in guiding the founders of scaling CPG brands, as Brand Growth Heroes' sponsor.With long-term relationships with clients like Little Moons, Trip, Eat Natural, Bear Graze, and Pulsin, Joelson is also famous for advising the innocent founders in their landmark sale to Coca-Cola! As a female team, we are especially impressed by Joelson's commitment to championing female founders in CPG.Not many law firms are also BCorps, nor do they specialise in helping founders navigate the legal challenges of scaling without stifling the creativity and momentum that got you here in the first place. So thanks, Joelson—we're delighted to have you on board.If you'd like to get in touch to find out more, why don't you drop them a line at hello@joelsonlaw.com!==============================================A tiny favour: If this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, please could you click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review?This small gesture from you means the world to us, and allows us to share these nuggets of insight and value with you more often.You won't want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth.Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us on our Brand Growth Heroes socials: LinkedIn,Facebook, Instagramand YouTube.Thanks to our Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS.

Want a simple path to your first 100 customers and real profit? For that and more, follow us here and subscribe to our YouTube channel!In this episode of Built Online, we sit down with Azgari Lipshy, founder of Azgari.com and veteran operator across CPG and local services. Azgari shares how to validate demand before you build, why door knocking still works, and how micro-influencers, recurring revenue, and tight operations can take a lawn or window-cleaning business from zero to $300K in year one with healthy margins. ------------AZGARI LIPSHY:- Website: https://azgari.com- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azgari.lipshy/- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azgari-lipshy/------------

Join Phil and Kenny as they hit the road with Simran Kaur, Sales Manager for Western Canada at Chiba Organics, for an unfiltered conversation about navigating the Canadian CPG and retail landscape.From her start handling national accounts for McDonald's and Starbucks at Zomato in Delhi to building relationships with independent grocers across Western Canada, Simran shares hard-earned wisdom about what it really takes to succeed in this business. Recorded on a marathon road trip, this episode dives into the realities of selling into retail: managing out-of-stocks honestly, building authentic store relationships, understanding that it's never about you—it's about helping stores serve their customers better, and why owning your mistakes is non-negotiable.Whether you're breaking into the industry, managing accounts, or just trying to understand how products make it onto shelves, this conversation delivers practical insights and real talk about the challenges and rewards of life in Canadian retail and CPG.You can find Simran here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaur-mansimran/In case you're interested in working with Jiva Organics: https://www.jivaorganics.ca/Thank you to Field Agent Canada for supporting the podcast https://www.fieldagentcanada.com/

On today's episode, Kara welcomes Jason Wright, Founder and CEO of WILDE — the Nashville-based brand rewriting the rules of snacking with its high-protein chips made from real chicken breast. Since launching in 2015, Jason has built WILDE into a powerhouse in the better-for-you snack space — doubling revenue year after year, developing patented production technology, and operating a state-of-the-art facility in Kentucky.Jason shares how he turned a simple idea — reimagining the classic potato chip with clean protein and bold flavor — into a fast-growing brand that's changing how we think about healthy snacking. We talk about the early challenges of scaling production, what it takes to win in a competitive CPG category, and the leadership lessons Jason's learned while building a company that refuses to compromise on taste, texture, or quality. From innovation and manufacturing to brand storytelling and vision, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for every entrepreneur, builder, and snack lover out there. Don't miss it! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at karagoldin@gmail.com. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Jason Wright and WILDE:https://www.wildebrands.com/https://www.instagram.com/wildebrandshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wildebrands Sponsored By:Quo - Get started for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months at Quo.com/KARAGOLDINSommsation - Discover wine the way it was meant to be enjoyed at Sommsation.com/TheKaraGoldinShow to shop now.Warby Parker - head over to WarbyParker.com/GOLDIN right now to try on any pair virtually!AG1 - Head to DrinkAG1.com/KARAGOLDIN to get a FREE Welcome Kit, including a bottle of Vitamin D and free AG1 Travel Packs, when you first subscribe! Check out our website to view this episode's show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/765

In this episode of “The Business of Blueberries,” Kasey Cronquist, president of the U.S. Highbush Council (USHBC) and North American Blueberry Council (NABC), is joined by the finalists from the Blueberry Boost Accelerator. These interviews were recorded on Blueberry Lane at The Blueberry Convention 2025 in Seattle, Washington. Cronquist interviews each finalist about their business, and recognizes the winner and runner up of this first cohort. The Blueberry Boost Accelerator was launched earlier this year to fuel forward-thinking product innovation and elevate blueberries as a hero ingredient by supporting visionary startups. From functional nutrition to clean-label desserts, this inaugural cohort exemplifies the future of the power of blueberries.“This is a tight competition. There's some great people with some great products.” – Bob Underwood, Farmer Bob's Beyond Berries“We have, through this … accelerator program, connected with a company that is a CPG firm, and fingers crossed that we are able to … solidify that relationship there.” – Jerrod Gable, Sorbatto“I eat a ton of blueberries … the superfood, the elements, the antioxidants, the prebiotic properties; it also pairs really well with the earthy tones of the fiber that we use.” – Jessica Postiglione, Bonny Fiber Supplements “It has been a long journey building this brand and just getting the support from the blueberry team just takes it to another level.” – Dylan Paul, Pluff Today's episode features the four finalists from the 2025 Blueberry Boost Accelerator cohort:Jessica Postiglione of Bonny Fiber Supplements, a fiber supplement flavored with blueberries to support gut health.Bob Underwood of Farmer Bob's Beyond Berries, a frozen snack product used from upcycling blueberries and other fruit.Dylan Paul of Pluff, a unique mousse-style blueberry dessert that's high in protein.Jerrod Gable of Sorbatto,  a frozen dessert that uses highbush blueberries as its base.Crop ReportThe Blueberry Crop Report is an update on crop conditions and markets throughout important blueberry growing areas. You'll hear from Luis Vegas in Peru and Mario Ramirez in Mexico. This was recorded on November 6, 2025.

Most founders design packaging based on gut feeling — not data. But what if you could know, before launch, exactly how consumers will respond?In this episode, I chat with Michael Keplinger, Managing Partner at SmashBrand, about how to bring the consumer voice into every stage of brand-building. We dive into the psychology behind the 3–13 second decision window, how packaging roles differ between e-commerce and retail, and how to create a testing roadmap that fits a startup budget.Michael shares how data-driven testing can help founders not only improve packaging performance but also win over retail buyers with proof that their product converts.If you're building or rebranding a CPG product, this episode will help you make smarter decisions, reduce risk, and create packaging that sells itself.Learn more about SmashBrand.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.

In this episode of the Supply Chain Podcast, host Thomas O'Connor discusses with Tamera Fenske, Kimberly-Clark's chief supply chain officer, how the leading consumer goods manufacturer traverses the peaks and valleys of the ever-evolving consumer landscape. Fenske details how Kimberly-Clark adjusts to these challenges with agility and makes changes within the organization to adapt to shifting consumer expectations.This episode explores:How consumers balance price-sensitivity with the desire for quality. (1:24)How Kimberly-Clark's supply chain works with the R&D and commercial divisions on product construction, product design and various cost elements. (2:57)Responding to the global market with agility and speed. (6:51)Building strong relationships with C-suite stakeholders. (10:21)Factoring strategy with talent in meeting organizational goals. (15:03)Tamera Fenske is a CPG supply chain leader who has worked in a variety of manufacturing and supply chain leadership roles and is known for unlocking best-in-class capabilities across a range of technologies, innovations and go-to-market models. As chief supply chain officer for Kimberly-Clark, Tamera has global responsibility for the enterprise supply chain's end-to-end manufacturing and distribution footprint, as well as the functional support areas, including procurement, quality, sustainability, occupational health and safety, strategy and capital engineering. Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark in 2022, Tamera served as senior vice president of manufacturing and supply chain for 3M Company, where she led end-to-end supply chain in the U.S. and Canada across all of its business groups and markets. During her 22-year tenure with 3M, she held various senior roles leading manufacturing, supply chain and operations for many of the company's global businesses, as well as plant management. She brings additional prior experience from Marathon Ashland Petroleum and Dow Chemical Company. She holds a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering from Michigan Technological University and has been a frequent presenter at supply chain leadership and manufacturing conferences, sharing her perspective on factory-of-the-future strategies and their impact on the bottom line, advanced process control applications that reduce variability and adopting scalable automation solutions to drive an end-to-end supply chain. Outside of work, Tamera enjoys spending time with her family and friends, hiking with her two dogs, traveling, scuba diving and enjoying the great outdoors.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What do the hosts make of Caulipower's fitting exit, a tennis icon's investment in a corn-free (!) popcorn startup, and Padma Lakshmi's partnership with a particularly spicy CPG brand? It's a full serving of Taste Radio, complete with a taste-test of high-fiber gummy candy and a $20, creatine-packed cereal.  Show notes: 0:25: Stacking, Bro. A Plant-Based Pioneer. No Corn, Thanks. Celeb Spice. Rising Talks. Man, That's Pricy. – Mike recounts his attendance at Supply Side Global and takeaways from the annual trade show. The hosts unpack Urban Farmer's acquisition of Caulipower and praise founder Gail Becker's vision and authenticity, before highlighting tennis star Novak Djokovic's $5 million investment in Cob, a corn-free popcorn brand, and Padma Lakshmi's collaboration with Diaspora Co. They also preview the upcoming NOSH Live, BevNET Live, and Brewbound Live events, emphasizing new opportunities like live Elevator Talk sessions where founders can pitch on stage. Later, they sample and review several innovative food and beverage products, including Shameless Snacks (fiber-rich gummies), Man Cereal (a pricey, high-protein, creatine cereal), Dirty Mountain Dew (cream soda-infused soda), Wildwonder's new holiday drink set, The Cumin Club's ready-to-eat Indian meals, and Plaid Circus non-alcoholic cocktails. Brands in this episode: Koia, Caulipower, A Dozen Cousins, Snickers, Shameless Snacks, Man Cereal, Mountain Dew, Wildwonder, The Cumin Club, Plaid Circus, Narra, Laurel's Coffee

Gavin and Wade chat about all things CPG...some great discussion on Holiday/Seasonal buying, Retailer dos and don'ts, buyer etiquette and so much more. You don't want to miss this one!

In this episode of Food Chained, Vasa interviews Fred Hart, founder of Hart Brands, discussing his journey from growing up in Hawaii to becoming a prominent figure in branding and design within the consumer goods industry. Fred shares insights from his agency experience, the importance of trade shows, and the evolving landscape of design trends. The conversation also touches on the significance of nostalgia in branding and the challenges faced by legacy brands. Fred offers valuable insights on agency selection and the crucial role of packaging in consumer engagement.TAKEAWAYS:Fred Hart emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes in a supportive environment.The design journey often starts from personal passions, such as sports and sneakers.Agency experience can accelerate learning and growth in the branding field.Independent consulting allows for flexibility and creativity in project work.Trade shows are vital for understanding industry trends and consumer behavior.Design trends are shifting towards more original and restrained aesthetics.Nostalgia plays a significant role in branding, but it must be balanced with modernity.Brands need to differentiate themselves in a crowded market to stand out.The importance of cohesive branding across all consumer touchpoints is critical.Legacy brands have opportunities for reinvention through strategic design.CONNECT WITH US:Connect with Vasa on LinkedInConnect with Fred on LinkedInPerfy's websiteCPGSPN by Growthbuster, a CPG newsletter with a sports themeCheck out Hart BrandsSPONSOR:Food Chained is a Perfy podcast brought to you by Growthbuster. Growthbuster is a team of creatives and strategists that help food & beverage brands grow. Check out Growthbuster's newsletter, CPGSPN here. 

In this episode of Food Chained, Vasa interviews Nicky Seaman, founder of Freestyle Snacks, discussing her journey in the food industry, the creation of her innovative snack products, and the challenges and successes she faced during the pandemic. Nicky shares insights on retail strategies, the importance of packaging, and her latest product launch of pickle chips. The conversation also explores personal growth, the importance of following through on commitments, and the future of food trends. NOTE: The audio is a bit spotty, but Nikki drops some amazing information. WHAT WE GO OVER:The idea behind Freestyle Snacks Scrappy, winning retail strategiesHow Nicky's experience at Whisps helped her launch her own brandWhat drove the recent launch of pickle chips?The importance of packaging in attracting new consumersHow to leverage exclusivity with retailersNicky's superpowerGrowing trend of pickles in the food industry.Growth during the holidaysCONNECT WITH US:Connect with Vasa on LinkedInConnect with Nikki on LinkedInPerfy's websiteCPGSPN by Growthbuster, a CPG newsletter with a sports themeCheck out Freestyle SnacksSPONSOR:Food Chained is a Perfy podcast brought to you by Growthbuster. Growthbuster is a team of creatives and strategists that help food & beverage brands grow. Check out Growthbuster's newsletter, CPGSPN here. 

Troy Bonde & Winston Alfieri are CEO, CMO and Co-Founders of SAUZ, the pasta sauce brand known for its bright colors and killer flavors. On this episode of ITS, Ali and the SAUZ guys talk about brand building, true differentiation in a massive, commodity category, and how they acquire and then keep consumers.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mondelēz (maker of Oreo and Chips Ahoy) is investing over $40 million in a custom generative AI tool to slash marketing costs by 30-50% and create TV-ready ads for the 2027 Super Bowl. But is building proprietary AI technology the right move, or should CPG brands partner with specialized providers? Chris and Anne debate whether this massive investment will pay off or become a costly sunk cost trap as AI technology rapidly evolves. Anne shares insights from cutting-edge AI advertising demos that are already creating human-likenesses in commercials. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/7d-eJ-WAhfw #mondelez #generativeAI #aimarketing #cpginnovation #accenture #marketingautomation #oreo #advertisingtechnology #aicommercials #retailtech

Computer vision is transforming retail stores, but most pilots fail to scale beyond proof of concept. In this Omni Talk Ask An Expert episode, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Joe Serrano (Global Managing Partner, Retail & CPG at HTEC) and Daniel Horton (VP of Engineering & Delivery at HTEC) to reveal the playbook for successful computer vision deployments. Learn why 75% of retail AI pilots fail to scale, which use cases deliver the fastest ROI, and how to evaluate your existing infrastructure before investing in new technology. Joe and Dan share hard-earned lessons about everything from camera requirements and network readiness to privacy concerns and customer trust. Key topics covered: • Why demo accuracy rarely matches real-world performance • How to leverage 60-80% of existing cameras with minor augmentation • The critical difference between customer-facing vs. operational AI deployments • Smart carts, inventory visibility, shrink control, and shelf availability use cases • Privacy, GDPR, and building customer trust with in-store AI • Build vs. buy decisions for computer vision infrastructure Whether you're piloting your first computer vision project or scaling existing implementations, this conversation provides actionable insights to help you avoid costly mistakes and deliver measurable ROI. Join HTEC for their January Webinar: Computer Vision in Action: Cutting Shrink, Boosting Efficiency, and Powering Smarter Stores with Edge AI https://www.brighttalk.com/webcast/21011/656661?utm_source=brighttalk-sharing&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=linkshare #RetailTech #ComputerVision #ArtificialIntelligence #RetailInnovation #StoreOperations #RetailAI #OmniChannelRetail #InventoryManagement #RetailTransformation #SmartStores

In today's episode, we are delighted to welcome Lindsay Hancock, the founder and CEO of My Better Batch, a remarkable brand transforming the way busy families approach baking. With a background in the food industry and a passion for family-friendly solutions, Lindsay brings both heart and expertise to our conversation.  Whether you're a first-time parent navigating the juggle of work and family, or a seasoned caregiver seeking fresh ways to connect in the kitchen, this episode offers inspiration, actionable ideas, and a warm reminder that even small shared rituals (like cookies) can build meaningful bonds. Tune in and join us as Lindsay shares how My Better Batch is redefining convenience, quality, and connection for families.  Episode Highlights: Lindsay's journey from corporate CPG executive to entrepreneurial founder, and how her personal experience as a working mom sparked the idea for My Better Batch. The "why" behind My Better Batch: crafting premium, clean-ingredient cookie mixes that deliver homemade taste with minimal prep — just add butter and an egg. Real-life stories of busy families discovering the joy of baking without sacrificing quality, connection or time together Practical tips for parents and caregivers on how to carve out meaningful moments with kids, even in the rush of everyday life, and how simple baking rituals can be a vehicle for that. Resources:  Click here to Order Your Cookie Mixes Now - Use code TINYTRANSITIONS for a discount and free shipping on any order over $25 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybetterbatch/ 

In this episode, Syed and Amer share how family tragedy, living around the world, and experience in the packaged good industry all led them to launch their own food brand, Auntie Rana's. They share how their marketing strategy resulted in landing 300 influencers, 4-5 retail partners, and loads of press by the week of their official launch. The discussion covers their 100 year family history in business, their connection to and passion for the food industry, and why they've decided to donate 5% of their product to wildlife conservation. Syed and Amer and excited to be the first to introduce North America to the Naga chili, which is beloved for its fragrance in other parts of the world. The conversation then goes on to talk about the challenges they faced launching the brand, their hopes for the future, and what a better word means to Syed and Amer.Takeaways:Syed and Amer's father passing started them on the path to launching a food brand. Having lived in California, Bangladesh, Singapore, Montreal, Toronto gives them a unique view of global foods and tastes.Their experience in the food industry and large consumer goods companies guided their launch.Auntie Rana's brand secured 4-5 retail partners on launch day.Launching with over 300 influencers will help promote the product.Auntie Rana's gives 5% of profits to animal conservation causes.They're the first brand to introduce the Naga chili to North America.Launching with 4 different products gives them both product range and focus.Their family has been in business for a hundred years.Sound bites:“Our family's been through a lot of turmoil. The 2008 financial crisis kind of wiped out all of our assets and our homes and everything. Then our Dad got cancer in 2016.“Naga chili is absolutely beloved in Eastern Bangladesh to India's Seven Sisters because of the fragrance. It's wildly amazing.”“My mom always said you've got to try everything three times. That's why our palate grew so much.”“These are the areas that the exact same wildlife is affected by the agriculture. We're trying to help those areas.”“Reading history is powerful, because every mistake you're going to make, someone's already made it. Why not just learn from that?”“If you're not passionate about it, you're going to burn out.”Links:Auntie Rana's - https://auntieranas.com/Syed Khaleque on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/syed-khaleque-586aaab/Auntie Rana's on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/auntie-rana-s/about/Auntie Rana's on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/auntieranas/Auntie Rana's on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/auntieranas/Auntie Rana's on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@auntieranas…Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation - https://www.orangutan.or.id/Wildlife Alliance - https://www.wildlifealliance.org/Wildlife SOS - https://wildlifesos.org/…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_radioSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today's guest is Jim Johnson, President at AnswerRocket. Founded in 2013, AnswerRocket builds enterprise AI agents delivering measurable outcomes for Fortune 2000 clients across consumer goods, financial services, construction, real estate, and beyond. Johnson joins Emerj Editorial Director Matthew DeMello to discuss how consumer packaged goods companies can overcome data complexity and accelerate decision-making with emerging agentic AI capabilities. The conversation also examines how CPG teams can shorten analysis cycles, reduce dependence on manual reporting, and uncover new revenue opportunities by pairing existing human expertise with continuously learning AI agents. This episode is sponsored by AnswerRocket. Interested in putting your AI product in front of household names in the Fortune 500? Connect directly with enterprise leaders at market-leading companies. Emerj can position your brand where enterprise decision-makers turn for insight, research, and guidance. Visit emerj.com/sponsor.

Angela Woody talks about her career journey; learning to let go of inherited beliefs; making IT investments; & the guiding principles that have shaped her life. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [04.09] Angela's coincidental career – how volunteering at an event led to an internship that led to a full-time role at Kimberly-Clark. "It was a happenstance!... Someone took a chance on me." [08.41] Angela's 13-year tenure at Kimberly-Clark: how her career progressed, what she learned, and her biggest achievements. "Working for a global manufacturing company, you just had a wealth of opportunities… There was an opportunity to work on a first-of-a-kind project… and on that project, I could be innovative, experimental – it was career-changing." [14.21] Why Angela made a move from large CPG to small healthcare business, and how she changed her assumptions around what a stable, long-term career should look like. [17.45] What Angela loves about supply chain. "Supply chain is not a flashy job! … It's dirty, and for some reason that sparked my intertest... Supply chain is the last thing that's going to touch a product before it's delivered to the customer, that's our responsibility – and I fell in love with that." [21.40] How the pandemic shone a light on the industry, and why hesitation to make capital investments in IT systems is one of the biggest challenges in supply chain right now. "2020 was a blessing in disguise for supply chain. It brought some immediate visibility into how fragile our global supply chain really is – and it finally became a topic in the boardroom." "The companies that are truly making the investment in IT, making the investment in upgrades, they're the ones that are winning." [24.40] Why change management is still such a big problem, and how businesses should be approaching it for success. "Change management takes focus, time, resources and empathy. Change management is one of the most underleveraged capabilities, and I've seen many IT transformations fail because of a lack of investment in it." [27.40] Angela's 'Bring Your Kid To Work Day' experience with her daughter, and how we engage the upcoming generations in supply chain. "I have two girls, and I want to be a role model for them. I want to show them they can do anything they set their minds to, as long as they work hard." [31.31] Angela's experience as a woman in supply chain and technology. [35.15] The guiding principles that have shaped Angela's success, in life and work. [36.08] The importance of mentorship, and how Angela supports the next generations. "When I first started, mentorship wasn't something that was available, or even discussed… So, as we've evolved, and have seen its importance, I've taken male and female mentees and worked with them to have an opportunity to talk about things – I wish I had that." [38.35] The future for Angela. "I've worked hard to be where I am, but the feeling you get when you spend time out in the community and truly give back, is very special to me." RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   You can connect with Angela over on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more women in tech, check out 493: Women in Supply Chain, Natalie Walker, 470: Women in Supply Chain, Melodie Van Der Baan, or 479: Women in Supply Chain, Lina Castaneda.

Send us a textYou've got a great product, decent packaging, and maybe even a few stockists. But here's the problem: your product is moving off the shelf. You're spending all your energy chasing new listings while your existing stockists are losing confidence. This is the wake-up call you need.In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I'm breaking down why so many CPG brands focus on the wrong metric.I share real examples from brands that are crushing it. You'll hear about brands like Bippy Chili moving 30-40 units per week, Ammazza Pizza doing 2,000 units in a single week, and Mingle Seasoning achieving a 350% sales uplift for three months after one collaboration.These results aren't accidents. They're the outcome of strategic marketing at every stage of the funnel.Listen today and walk away knowing: 

Guest co-host Ben Miller, Shoptalk's VP of Original Content and Strategy joins to provide expert analysis and we interview Lauren Sherman, the acclaimed fashion correspondent at Puck and author of Selling Sexy: Victoria's Secret and the Unraveling of an American IconThe episode kicks off with a rich news segment, where the trio unpacks the latest forces shaping retail and the economy. Amazon's strong Q3 earnings headline the week, with third-party marketplace growth and ad revenues surging 24%. The conversation then pivots to the consumer landscape, where CPG brands lean on pricing over volume, private-label growth accelerates, and Estee Lauder's rebound in China might hint at green shoots in luxury demand.From there, the hosts explore the AI revolution's ripple through the workforce, with Ben outlining how global companies are reorganizing around “agentic transformation” as human and machine intelligence increasingly converge. He notes that the average IQ of today's AI agents already exceeds 130—with future leaps that will reshape every operating model. The segment closes with Steve's macro overview: U.S.–China tariff recalibrations, Fed policy shifts, and warning signs of consumer softening among younger cohorts.In the feature interview, Lauren Sherman offers a masterclass on the shifting foundations of global fashion and luxury. From the post-pandemic boom to today's demand reset, she dissects how the Chinese slowdown, pricing strategy saturation, and the direct-to-consumer explosion are redrawing the map for brands like LVMH, Hermès, and Prada. Lauren argues that “untouchable” luxury houses are now confronting the limits of endless growth, and that resale and rental markets have permanently altered consumer psychology—embedding secondhand luxury as a normalized part of the buying journey.She also explores social media's transformation under AI, Hollywood's over-reliance on fashion partnerships, and why the luxury world's obsession with celebrity campaigns may have reached saturation.The episode also previews ShopTalk Luxe, the new Abu Dhabi-based event connecting the global luxury ecosystem. The hosts wrap by spotlighting the AI data-center boom, the rise of GLP-1-driven nutrition trends, and the surprising revival of British department stores. About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

If you are feeling stuck after you launch your business - maybe around $40 - $60K - it's very likely a fear of success that is holding you back, not a fear of failure. Sneaky thoughts like "I'm not good with money" or "no one could ever sell as good as me" or "I'm the only one who can make my product" or "I'm not good at managing people" are likely keeping your business small so that you can avoid the things that often come with success. On today's podcast I share with you some fears that came from CPG founders just like you on a recent Master Your Business call and what do to about them so you can get to the next level in your business. If you are thinking about starting a food biz or want to grow into a new channel - Get my FREE three-part video series: 3 Ways to Sell → click here ← Is 1:1 Business Coaching calling your name to scale your existing business and stop working so dang hard? Explore coaching with Sari here Pick up your copy of the Amazon best selling book

Points of discussion:1. How to price your beer with Bump Williams Consulting-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 

In this episode of The Retail Perch, Shekar Raman and Gary Hawkins are joined by Peter Bond, Co-Host of The CPG Guys and Head of Industry and Client Engagement at Flywheel. Peter discusses the role of the podcast community in building meaningful connections across retail and CPG, how shopper expectations have evolved and what that means for brands and retailers today, and his work with co-host Sri Rajagopalan contributing to Cornell Tech's Retail Media Strategy program. The conversation blends industry insight with a bit of baseball for good measure.

How do you hire a celebrity for your CPG brand without getting burned? In this episode, Mark and Justin pull back the curtain on the celebrity endorsement game — from navigating inflated egos to structuring deals that actually make sense. Mark shares rare insight as someone who's been on both sides of the table — managing talent and negotiating for brands — and lays out the hidden traps most companies don't see coming. You'll learn: • Why "we'll give you equity" almost never works • How to avoid overpaying (or under-leveraging) celebrity talent • The surprising way exposure can hurt a brand and a celebrity • What managers really look for when saying yes to a product Want a celebrity to actually sell your product — not just show up? Start here.

Food for Thought Leadership co-host Chris Campbell sits down with Robyn Carter, founder and CEO of Jump Rope Innovation, to explore the concept of the “return to real” in today's food industry. With so much of life filtered through screens, algorithms, and ad-driven messaging, consumers are now seeking real food, real stories, and real connection. Robyn lays out how this trend is reshaping not only what we eat, but how we shop, dine, and engage with brands. Looking ahead, Robyn highlights the next frontier of the trend: longevity and women's health, and deeper provenance through farm-to-table narratives. Whether you're a CPG brand, a retailer, or a food-service operator, this conversation offers timely insights and actionable ideas to align your strategy with a consumer mindset that values what's real. More About Robyn Carter: Robyn Carter is the founder and CEO of Jump Rope Innovation, a best-in-class trends and innovation consultancy based just outside NYC. Founded in 2005, Jump Rope brings a human-centered approach to innovation through immersive research, trend insights, and co-creation techniques. Beginning her career in advertising, Robyn held roles in Account Management and New Business, working on iconic brands including Capri Sun, Kool-Aid, and Red Stripe. She was a Partner and Account Supervisor at Ogilvy, where she helped develop and implement communications strategy for the global Maxwell House brand. Robyn is a co-founder of IT! Factor, a groundbreaking Influencer research and innovation tool. She is also a host of the Ask an Influencer podcast, sharing insights and advice for brands based on learnings from category influencers. She is a renowned moderator and has been a featured guest on numerous panels and podcasts, including BevNet Community Call. Connect with Robyn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-carter-72b4391/ Listen, Share and Subscribe to Ask An Influencer here or anywhere you listen to podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qfOAuHGyzIEznmwBnAX8D?si=2606fb21856e403d More About Jump Rope Innovation: At Jump Rope Innovation, we're a team of curious, collaborative problem-solvers. We're strategists, researchers, and creative thinkers, driven by the thrill of discovery and a commitment to true understanding. We specialize in uncovering insights that spark breakthrough innovation, activation and communication. We help our clients to develop their gut for the consumer and to use this understanding to develop bold, meaningful strategies that resonate today—and tomorrow. Find us online at https://jumpropeinnovation.com/ And follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jumpropeinnovation/ on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@jumpropeinnovation Learn More: LinkedIn:  Jump Rope Innovation: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jump-rope-innovation/ Robyn Carter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-carter-72b4391/ Podcast: Ask An Influencer: https://www.instagram.com/jumpropeinnovation/ Instagram: Jump Rope Innovation: https://www.instagram.com/jumpropeinnovation/ Ask an Influencer: https://www.instagram.com/askaninfluencerpodcast/ TikTok: Jump Rope Innovation: https://www.tiktok.com/@jumpropeinnovation?lang=en

On today's episode, Kara welcomes Kelsi Petersen, Co-Founder of Kelsi's — the better-for-you dessert brand making indulgence clean, crave-worthy, and full of purpose. A trained raw-food chef and CrossFit athlete, Kelsi created her first Brownie Batter Bites while teaching raw food classes with her mom in rural Idaho. What started as a passion project turned into a brand that's redefining what it means to treat yourself well.Kelsi shares how her mother's health journey inspired the original recipe, how she teamed up with co-founder Cassandra Hume to bring the product to life, and how the brand is creating mission-driven desserts that give back — donating 5% of profits to ALS research. We talk about the challenges of launching a food brand, the importance of staying true to your values, and what it takes to scale a snack that tastes like dessert but fuels you like real food. From early product development to leadership lessons and what's next for Kelsi's, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration for CPG founders, wellness enthusiasts, and dessert lovers everywhere. Don't miss it! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at karagoldin@gmail.com. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Kelsi Petersen and Kelsi's:https://kelsiskitchen.com/https://www.instagram.com/kelsis.browniebatterbiteshttps://www.tiktok.com/@kelsis.browniebatterbitehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/kelsi-s-kitchen Sponsored By:Nutrafol - For a limited time get ten dollars off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code KARAGOLDINDell - Get a new Dell PC at Dell.com/ai-pcMerit Beauty - Our listeners gat a FREE Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at MeritBeauty.comLinkedIn Jobs - Head to LinkedIn.com/KaraGoldin to post your job for free.Sommsation - Discover wine the way it was meant to be enjoyed at Sommsation.com/TheKaraGoldinShow to shop now. Check out our website to view this episode's show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/762

Today's guest is Dag Liodden, Chief Product Officer and Co-founder at Crisp. Crisp combines the power of agentic AI with deep retail expertise. Over 7,000 brands leverage Crisp to manage and enrich their retail data to surface valuable insights and drive sales and supply chain performance. Dag joins Emerj Editorial Director Matthew DeMello to discuss why vertical expertise in CPG is essential for unlocking AI's potential, and how creating an AI-ready foundation through data harmonization transforms workflows – from category and promotion management to supply chain optimization. He also explains how this foundation allows teams to focus on strategic work, while AI-powered agents improve real-time performance, reduce human error, and drive measurable ROI across product portfolios. This episode is sponsored by Crisp. Discover how leading brands partner with Emerj to grow their profile and drive impact. Explore partnership opportunities at emerj.com/ad1. Share your insights, grow your profile, and join an elite circle of AI leaders. Apply to be a future' AI in Business' podcast guest at emerj.com/expert2. 

Patrick Miller (Co-founder, Flywheel) and Emma jump into this month's recap with insights on Amazon's latest earnings and what they reveal about the company's expanding grocery ambitions. They also explore Amazon's new AI-powered “Help me decide” feature, discuss Walmart's plans to transform a Pennsylvania mall into a mixed-use retail destination, and wrap up with a candid look at what it takes to succeed as a CPG manufacturer as industry pressures continue to mount.

Almost two decades after 50 Cent reportedly made around $100 million from the Coca-Cola and Vitaminwater M&A transaction, his “equity instead of traditional endorsement fees” deal structure has become commonplace within today's influencer partnerships involving emerging CPG brands. But one of the greatest success stories in recent years involves the popular influencer Alix Earle and modern soda brand Poppi. And though Alix Earle declined to share the size of her stake, her father/manager confirmed that his daughter chose to work with Poppi on an equity basis (along with investing some of her own capital). Moreover, that equity was converted “at a pretty significant gain” in March 2025 when PepsiCo announced its agreement to acquire Poppi for $1.95 billion. However, and maybe providing an even more lucrative “woulda coulda shoulda” example…that same M&A transaction included Josh Richards, another popular internet personality who stated a handful of years ago that he wanted to be the “first influencer billionaire.” Josh Richards participated in the Poppi August 2021 fundraising round (a few years before Alix Earle) but also signed a “marketing services for equity” type contract in 2020. Though, Josh Richards didn't get paid out from it…and he's reportedly suing Poppi for an alleged breach of contract involving that unpaid portion of vested equity. All I know is Poppi better hope Dave Portnoy doesn't go all scorched earth on them…as he appears to be extremely protective of his former co-hosts on the BFFs podcast.

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupWelcome to the DTC Podcast. Today, we're joined by Seth Waite, Founder and Buyer Psychologist at Schaefer, where he helps CPG and food and beverage brands unlock growth by digging into the real reasons people buy.In this episode, we cover:Why knowing your customer via demographics isn't enough - the shift to behaviors, motivations, and jobs-to-be-done.How to build a "Why People Buy Pyramid" for your brand and map messaging across basic needs, emotional values, personal growth, and community.How to recognize true product-market fit in a DTC/CPG context (hint: when the only thing stopping you from selling more is budget).Why targeting the small obsessed segment matters (the "kingpin strategy") and how that unlocks long-term scale and profitable growth.Practical tips for talking to customers today - simple interviews, replacement questions, and how to turn qualitative insights into segmentation and messaging.Best moments you'll want to scan for:• "Demographics are interesting ... but they're not always insightful."• "What you should be telling is the customer's story - these are the occasions you'll have with our product."• "If the only reason why you're not selling more is money ... you've got product-market-fit."• The breakdown of the Why People Buy Pyramid and how it applies to food and beverage brands.• How brands like Oreo and Liquid Death illustrate layering of needs, emotional values, and community.Whether you're launching a new DTC food brand, scaling a snack or beverage line, or trying to sharpen your segmentation and messaging, you'll walk away with concrete frameworks and a clearer path to growth.00:00 - Introduction: Why People Buy01:20 - From Sam's Club to Walmart: Studying Real Buyer Behavior05:12 - Motivations vs. Demographics12:15 - Oreo: How to Own a Category18:03 - Brand Psychology, Packaging, and Subconscious Triggers26:06 - What Product-Market Fit Actually Looks Like32:28 - Tell Their Story, Not Yours39:13 - How to Actually Get Insight (Without a $150K Research Budget)#ConsumerPsychology #WhyPeopleBuy #CPGMarketing #BrandStrategy #ProductMarketFit #CustomerInsights #BehavioralScience #MarketingPsychology #FoodAndBeverage #DTCMarketing #MotivationBasedMarketing #EmotionalBranding #DataDrivenMarketing #OreoCaseStudy #LiquidDeathMarketing #FishwifeBrand #CustomerResearch #FounderStrategy #MarketingPodcast #DTCPodcastSubscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupAdvertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertiseWork with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouseFollow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletterWatch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Brian Monaghan, SVP/Head of Albertsons Media Collective, the retail media division of the Albertsons Companies.Find Brian on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brmonahan/Find AMC on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/albertsons-media-collective/Find AMC online at: https://albertsonsmediacollective.com/Here's what we asked Brian:What led you to join Albertsons Media Collective, and how do your past experiences (at Dentsu, Pinterest, Walmart etc.) inform your vision here?What is your overarching mission for Albertsons Media Collective over the next 3-5 years?How do you define success for Albertsons' retail media—beyond revenue like category growth or household penetration?Albertsons recently introduced a new “media toolkit” for CPG partners. How do you see this evolving, and what are the biggest learnings so far? How does the “collective growth” mindset, you have spoken of, translate into concrete programs or incentives for advertiser partners? What are the major obstacles in full funnel closed-loop measurement and attribution in grocery / retail media, and how is Albertsons tackling them?How is Albertsons leveraging tech innovations (e.g. AI, machine learning, predictive analytics) to improve targeting, personalization, and measurement?How do you foster collaboration with advertisers to not just run campaigns but jointly drive category growth?How is Albertsons organized internally such that the media collective is aligned with merchandising, operations, digital, stores etc.? What are the biggest coordination challenges?What kind of investments (talent, tech, partnerships, infrastructure) are you making to scale Albertsons Media Collective?As RMNs seek to break out of the current dominance of the 2 biggest platforms, what are the biggest risks you see for retail media in the next couple of years (regulatory, economic, competitive, technological)?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comSHeCCOMMERCE 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.

Show me the incentive…and I'll show you the outcome! So, based on the timing…you might assume that introductory statement indicates something about how $7 billion in new private equity financing would sweeten the Keurig Dr Pepper business spilt, support the JDE Peet's deal, or maybe even feed off an activist investor. Though, it's important to recall I'm not an equity analyst or KDP individual investor, which means I admittedly wasn't super concerned about certain negative consequences of the transaction…or how using a tax-free Reverse Morris Trust would've been more favorable to shareholders compared to the agreed upon structure ultimately benefitting JAB Holding Company. And while I obviously understand “an elevated debt load” is interconnected (and influential) to the “North Star” transformation work required to establish two strong, successful companies…I intentionally looked past capitalization strategies and will do so again this content piece. Instead, I'll draw upon my last 15+ years of deep domain expertise…being prominently positioned within the emerging and intersecting CPG categories of food, beverages, and dietary supplements, to uncover a critical misalignment that could cause major long-term KDP “Beverage Co.” concerns. As mentioned within its recent Investor Day presentation, KDP wants to establish growth platforms in large and attractive categories. Since “energy” is the fastest growing $10B+ liquid refreshment beverage category…it's obviously the most important inside KDP. And we're going to focus exclusively on dynamics between Nutrabolt and GHOST that I originally brought up in October 2024 when KDP announced it was acquiring GHOST Lifestyle. But maybe within that content piece (or at least shortly after), I expressed my belief that KDP would eventually seek corrective measures…most likely fixing any potential incentive misalignment through further investment in Nutrabolt. However, since last year's KDP and GHOST deal announcement…A LOT has happened from Bloom Sparkling Energy drinks becoming a categorical superstar and (as a result) Nutrabolt acquiring majority stake in Bloom Nutrition to the beforementioned complicated KDP business separation plans. And there's another interesting tidbit popping up but (either way) change at this level predictably raised questions recently from you guys (and beverage industry trade publications) asking if I had an evolved theory surrounding how KDP might design a new system where Nutrabolt and GHOST have aligned incentives. And since I wouldn't expect any substantial "Beverage Co." investment activity until the KDP and JDE Peet's transaction is complete (and subsequent separation event occurs), I'll discuss if Nutrabolt should be strategically “patient” or “aggressive” as the “future optionality” window opens after KDP “Beverage Co.” matures independently. But despite obvious competitive similarities, this shouldn't be interpreted as some kind of “GHOST versus Nutrabolt” content piece, as each company is defining their future through different strategic vectors. Instead, I hope you recognized the “hidden risk” regarding how Big CPG continues to reshape its portfolio architecture. Today, Big CPG wants an increasingly larger amount of exposure to this four-way intersection of taste, convenience, nutrition, and functionality. We are currently at the stage where Big CPG portfolios acquire (or partner with) multiple sports nutrition competitors across growth platforms…and could create the type of challenges outlined within this content piece.

The shelf era is over—and the rules of CPG growth are changing fast.

Nick Wiseman is the CEO and Co-Founder of Little Sesame, a chef-founded, hummus brand rooted in sustainable farming and ingredient integrity. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Nick talk about self-manufacturing, hospitality-focused CPG, brand building, and why choosing the best chickpea in America makes all the difference.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You've built an impressive career leading innovative consumer brands. Can you walk us through your journey—what led you to start Durham Brands and Gimme Beauty?Building a CPG brand that scales globally is no small feat. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced along the way, and how did you navigate them?Gimme Beauty has made waves in the health and beauty space. What innovations or trends in the industry excite you the most right now?With Gimme products in over 25,000 retail locations, how do you balance fast growth with maintaining a strong team culture and brand identity?You also founded the CPGX Forum, bringing together industry leaders. What do you see as the biggest opportunities and disruptions shaping the future of CPG brands?

Elizabeth's flying solo for this one and sharing the real story behind Purely Elizabeth - the part with no business plan, a muffin mix made in her mom's kitchen, and a triathlon that unexpectedly changed everything. From stumbling into the wellness world to figuring out CPG on the fly, she walks through the early days of building the brand without a roadmap. You'll hear the wins, the missteps, and the decisions that could've gone either way, plus why staying mission-led (and a little weird) has always been worth it.Episodes Here Say Hi To Elizabeth and Purely Elizabeth: Website | InstagramLiz: The Nourished Edit Mentioned: Institute for Integrative Nutrition 

What does it really take to succeed as a sports agent? Matt Hannaford shares his 25-year journey in this powerful behind-the-scenes episode. Subscribe for weekly coaching on how to build a career in sports From rookie to seasoned agent, from massive MLB deals to deeply personal wins—Matt opens up about the life, lessons, and legacy behind building Aligned Sports. Interviewed by his wife and branding expert, Tara Hannaford, this heartfelt conversation reveals the untold stories behind success, burnout, and the nuance of guiding top-tier athletes. If you've ever wondered what it's really like behind the agent desk, this is the episode. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to become a sports agent – the realities beyond TV glamor and hype. Why patience outperforms ambition – and how Matt built trust over 10,000 hours. Major mistakes families make in youth baseball – and how to avoid them early. What success means after 25 years – redefining impact, integrity, and purpose. How to thrive through high-stakes pressure – the mindset that sustains long-term careers.

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, recorded live at Groceryshop 2025, Sarah Hofstetter and guest co-host Andrea Steele sit down with Benoit Vatere, Chief Media Officer at Liquid Death, for a candid and energizing conversation about what it really takes to build modern commerce partnerships that move the needle.From launching a viral college-themed campaign with Amazon to pushing the boundaries of brand collaboration, Benoit shares how Liquid Death ties breakthrough creativity directly to retail outcomes. He discusses the importance of treating retailers as strategic partners, why the media industry needs to stop overcomplicating retail media, and how to stay focused on what truly drives awareness and conversion.As a first-time CPG executive with an entrepreneurial background, Benoit brings an unfiltered perspective on navigating legacy dynamics with fresh thinking. He also reflects on the bold decision that brought him from France to the U.S. to chase the American dream.Key takeaways:Creativity must convert. Benoit shares how Liquid Death aligns bold ideas with retailer objectives and transaction points to maximize both impact and measurability.Retailers are partners, not gatekeepers. Success comes from building together, listening well, and treating retail media as a shared opportunity rather than a cost center.Bravery is a mindset. From career moves to creative risks, Benoit's story is a masterclass in taking chances, building momentum, and staying relentlessly focused on outcomes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting a beverage brand might be one of the hardest things you can do in CPG. The margins are thin, the logistics are brutal, and most investors will tell you not to even try. But Harvard Business School grad Vanessa Royle and her co-founder did it anyway. They built Tilden, a ready-to-drink, premium non-alcoholic cocktail from the ground up. It all started with kitchen experiments, then they raised their first friends-and-family round with intention, and structured their seed raise to last. From the start, they made one simple but rare choice: to build for profitability, not hype, to grow slowly, stay intentional, and do things on their own terms. But that gets hard once the feedback starts rolling in. Every investor has a different take on pricing, strategy, and what success should look like. Somewhere in all those opinions, even the most confident founder can start second-guessing themselves. Vanessa eventually learned that sometimes, you really do know your business better than any investor. Feedback can be helpful, but it doesn't mean you have to change direction every time someone tells you to. So what did she figure out along the way? And what should CPG founders really look for in an investor? In this episode, Vanessa shares how she tuned out the noise, made the right calls for her company, her unexpected mini Shark Tank moment, and what's next for Tilden as the brand keeps growing. Topics Covered; Why most investors discourage founders from entering the beverage industry How to structure a friends-and-family round that sets you up for long-term success The simple way Tilden kept their cap table clean while bringing dozens of early believers on board What founders get wrong about feedback, and how to know when to trust your instincts instead Why chasing growth too fast can backfire (and how profitability became Tilden's secret advantage) How to prepare for a seed raise when investors keep moving the goalposts What it really takes to stand out in a crowded non-alcoholic category Guest Bio Vanessa Royle is a Harvard Business School grad and co-founder of Tilden, a ready-to-drink, premium non-alcoholic cocktail that redefines how we celebrate without alcohol. After quitting drinking in 2020, Vanessa was frustrated by the lack of sophisticated non-alcoholic options. So she set out to create her own premium ready-to-drink cocktail that's low sugar. She has broken through the initial push and is currently selling in hundreds of stores. To learn more, visit https://drinktilden.com/, follow @drinktilden on Instagram. If you want to learn more about investing, send an email to vanessa@drinktilden.com. About Your Host Jayla Siciliano, Shark Tank entrepreneur turned real estate investor, excels in building brands, teams, and products. CEO of a bi-coastal luxury short-term rental company, she also hosts the Seed Money Podcast, where she's on a mission to help early-stage entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality! Connect: Website: https://seedmoneypodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaylasiciliano/ Subscribe and watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@seedmoneypodcast/ Please rate, follow, and review the podcast on https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seed-money/id1740815877 and https://open.spotify.com/show/0VkQECosb1spTFsUhu6uFY?si=5417351fb73a4ea1/! Hearing your comments and questions helps me come up with the best topics for the show! The information in this podcast is educational and general in nature and does not take into consideration the listener's personal circumstances. Therefore, it is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized financial, legal, or tax advice.

Trader Joe's breaks every rule of modern retail. They don't do e-commerce. They don't do delivery. No sales, coupons, or loyalty programs. They only stock 4,000 SKUs versus 50,000+ at normal supermarkets. Their parking lots are famously terrible and they're constantly out of your favorite items. Shoppers brave long lines and cramped aisles while overly-friendly employees in Hawaiian shirts try to chat them up. Everything about the Trader Joe's experience seems designed to drive modern consumers away. And yet they generate $2,000+ per square foot in sales — double their nearest competitor in Whole Foods and nearly 4x the industry average — and Americans are obsessed with them. How on earth did a company that so steadfastly refuses to participate in the 21st century build the most beloved grocery chain in America?Today we tell the full story: how “Trader” Joe Coulombe started out cloning 7-Elevens in 1960s Los Angeles, pivoted to slinging hard liquor, discovered the enormous market opportunities for California wine and health food before anyone else, and ultimately built perhaps the most counter-positioned business we've ever studied on Acquired by doing almost everything differently than the supermarket-CPG industrial complex. Tune in for a wild voyage on the high seas of grocery retail!Sponsors:Many thanks to our fantastic Fall ‘25 Season partners:J.P. Morgan PaymentsSentryWorkOSShopifyLinks:Sign up for email updates and vote on future episodes!Worldly Partners' Multi-Decade Trader Joe's StudyBecoming Trader JoeThe Secret Life of GroceriesBuild a Brand Like Trader Joe'sAll episode sourcesCarve Outs:AirPods Pro 3Mario Kart 8More Acquired:Get email updates and vote on future episodes!Join the SlackSubscribe to ACQ2Check out the latest swag in the ACQ Merch Store!‍Note: Acquired hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.

Amazon's next major enterprise may not be AI - it's groceries. With online grocery sales projected to hit ~$220 billion in the U.S. by 2025, and Amazon rapidly expanding same-day fresh delivery, a massive opportunity is opening for brands and sellers. In this episode, Andy Isom breaks down why grocery is Amazon's "final frontier." He covers the opportunity equation, the risks, and asks the right strategic questions to help you decide if your brand can move into this space successfully. If you've ever thought about adding consumables, CPG, or pantry SKUs to your lineup - or simply want to future-proof your Amazon business - this episode will give you the roadmap. Check out all my resources at: www.andyisom.com