Podcasts about dozen cousins

Michelle Razavi, the co-founder of Elavi, pulls back the curtain on how the brand landed a $1 million order from Costco just four months after the debut of its protein brownies. The hosts also discuss Chobani's purchase of Daily Harvest and Via Verde Valle's acquisition of A Dozen Cousins and how the latter may reflect a new paradigm in which founders favor strategic exits over prolonged fundraising Show notes: 0:45: Pass The Brownies. Sample Your Wares. Fundraise Or Sell? Justin Time. Phony And Fantastic. – The hosts munch on Elavi's protein brownies and heap praise on the brand's co-founders Michelle Razavi and Nikki Elliot. They also highlight sampling opportunities and retailer buyer access at BevNET Live Summer 2025, before diving into recent industry M&A activity, including Chobani's acquisition of Daily Harvest and Verde Valley's acquisition of A Dozen Cousins. They discuss how these moves reflect shifting strategies in CPG, where founders increasingly favor strategic exits over prolonged fundraising. The team also reviews a variety of new products, including Justin's new better-for-you candy bars, Campari's non-alcoholic spritz Crodino, and the standout Phony White Negroni by St. Agrestis. Other notable mentions include energy-infused gum, crypto-themed sparkling water, and functional tea and coffee drinks. 29:09: Interview: Michelle Razavi, Co-Founder, Elavi – Michelle talks about how Elavi spotted whitespace in the protein snack category, the brand's journey to retail readiness, including key learnings from Costco roadshows, and how strategic packaging design and in-store execution have fueled velocity at scale. She also discusses buyer relationships, proving value as an emerging brand, and the internal resilience required to lead a mission-driven company through rapid iteration and distribution. Brands in this episode: Elavi, Olipop, Chobani, Polar, Daily Harvest, A Dozen Cousins, Verde Valle, Snickers, Gigantic Candy, Harken Sweets, Justin's, Campari, Aperol, Crodino, Crush, St. Agrestis, Instant Energy Gum, Rekt, Fktea, Fuzzee Coffee, RXBAR, Caulipower

When Walmart calls, you answer. When the retail giant offers you shelf space in 2,700 of its stores, you say “yes.” But turning that opportunity into success? That's where the real challenge begins. Alan Scholnick, the founder of Datefix, a date-based nutrition snack brand, talks about how its two-year development from nascent idea to Walmart shelves has shaped the company's path forward. Show notes: 0:45: Tax Day/TR Meetup. $100 In Your Pocket. Fonzie's Shark. Not Your Father's Ice Cream. Easy-ish Rice & Beans. – We're 11 days away from Taste Radio's NYC Meetup – you should join us. Oh, and BevNET Live Summer 2025 is right around the corner; there's money to be saved. Ray samples an unusual minty drink and hates on April Fool's Day CPG pranks. John shares his two cents on Groupon, before Mike shares the origins of a sharky saying. Jacqui highlights “breast milk ice cream” (yes, that's how it's described) and a line of easy to prepare rice mixes inspired by Latin cuisine. Mike talks about a U.K.-based tea brand and a hotpot “queen” before Ray makes a stunning admission. 28:51: Interview: Alan Scholnick, Founder & CEO, Datefix – On location at Expo West 2025, Alan shares the story behind Datefix, which draws from his Lebanese mother-in-law's culinary traditions and seamlessly blends his passion for fitness and nourishing, flavorful food. He highlights the brand's recent rebrand, which focuses on elevating the product's simple yet premium ingredients, while positioning Datefix for exciting co-branding collaborations in the future. Alan elaborates on the versatility of Datefix, noting its ability to fit into multiple daypart occasions, and discusses how the product's portability and long shelf life make it a challenge to define a single primary positioning. He also expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, reflecting on the brand's journey since Expo West 2023. Brands in this episode: Datefix, GNGR Labs, Olipop, Mentos, Frida Ice Cream, Fancypants, Loisa, A Dozen Cousins, Little Sesame, Vista Hermosa, Cornish Tea, Hotpot Queen, MiLa

Dr. Vin Gupta breaks down the different types of headaches and gives advice on treatment. Also, NBC's Steve Patterson goes behind the scenes of one business that's proving food that tastes good can also be healthy. Plus, Cristin Miloti sits down to talk about her new role in “The Penguin.”

Despite major strides taken by a new generation of bold entrepreneurs and brands, Black-owned food and beverage companies still face persistent headwinds getting on the shelves of mainstream supermarkets, finding significant investment,and scaling long-term. From a consumer and an equity standpoint, this is untenable. A significant slice – 14% – of American consumers are Black. We know that there are Black founders out there but they are not necessarily making their way into our consciousness or on the radar of much of the established CPG structure.  As a resource for all founders, Taste Radio, in collaboration with Quentin Vennie, the co-founder and CEO of beverage brand Equitea, has developed a special series that highlights conversations on various aspects of the challenges felt by all entrepreneurs filtered through the experience of Black founders. We also discuss the ways that the environment has changed, and how it has not, as well as identifying resources that our founders may not yet realize exist.  In this first edition of the series, we sat down with Quentin, Partake Foods founder Denise Woodard and Ibraheem Basir, the founder of A Dozen Cousins, for a roundtable discussion that explores the foundational reasons that each started their brands, how modern Black-owned brands are extending a legacy of Black entrepreneurship, ways in which they are building their companies' culture to reflect their own, and the impact of Black-owned and ethnic-themed brands in expanding the audience for natural and organic foods. Show notes: 0:35: Quentin Vennie, Equitea; Denise Woodard, Partake Foods; Ibraheem Basir, A Dozen Cousins – Quentin discusses the origins of the special series and the goals he hopes to achieve; Ibraheem and Denise talk about their respective families history in entrepreneurship, before Quentin explains how the creation of Equitea is partly rooted in his inability to find products that represented him or his culture. Ibraheem and Denise discuss the impact of their experience in corporate CPG companies in the development of their brands; they also explain what gave investors and retailers confidence to “place a bet” on their brands. The trio also talk about how the ebb and flow in how the CPG industry supports Black founders via diversity initiatives and why Quentin was unable to benefit from an initiative intended to support BIPOC entrepreneurship. Ibraheem explains how culture influences all aspects of A Dozen Cousins; Denise talks about incorporating a holistic perspective on culture into Partake Foods; Quentin discusses how black founders in food & beverage can collectively and independently help each other be successful. Ibraheem talks about “the sticky part” of racism and how it affects fundraising; Denise highlights the challenges faced by investment funds that are focused on women- and minority-owned businesses and the trickle down effect on brands like hers; and all three founders explain what they hope to leave as a legacy. Brands in this episode: Equitea, Partake Foods, A Dozen Cousins

In business, we often feel that we might have to compromise on our values to see our brands grow. But on the Food Biz Wiz podcast, we want to highlight how you can still grow your brand AND center your values. That’s why in today’s Original Recipe episode, we are excitedly revisiting our episode with Ibraheem Basir, the CEO and founder of A Dozen Cousins. A Dozen Cousins produces delicious packaged beans, rices, and sauces inspired by Black and Latino recipes from throughout the Americas. Ibraheem shares how he continues to emphasize being a values-centered company AND growing A Dozen Cousins into a national, retail-first brand. Tune in to hear him and Alli discuss… Why retail was where he focused first, instead of D2C What values A Dozen Cousins stands for and how they weave them into their work Their process for hiring diverse, values-aligned team members and building team culture As Alli has mentioned, we want to connect further with you, our Food Biz Wiz listeners! We want to know: which piece of Ibraheem’s experience or wisdom inspired you the most for your brand? DM us on Instagram or on LinkedIn, which you can find linked in our full show notes. You’ll also find more information on Ibraheem, A Dozen Cousins, and all the resources mentioned linked there as well. This episode is sponsored by our mini Reorder Checklist! In line with growing your brand through multiple tactics, this checklist is a list of ways to onboard a new retailer so that you’re more likely to sell off those shelves and receive reorders. You can find our simplified version at the link here OR, if you’re a Retail Ready® student, you can find the longform version and training directly within our course platform!

Welcome to Podcast #50: Social Strategies We Love featuring Black-Owned Brands! Today, we're delving into a special episode dedicated to Black History Month with co-founder of UMAI Marketing, Karin Samelson. Join her as we explore standout Black-owned brands, including Partake, A Dozen Cousins, and Me & the Bees Lemonade. Discover what sets these CPG brands apart and how their organic social media strategies help them to stand out from the crowd. Let's dive in!

In food and beverage, innovative brands often get the most attention. Novel ingredients, formulations and flavors draw crowds. And, yet, products that are positioned as incrementally better-for-you than existing options might have more runway over the long-term. The hosts discussed the topic in this episode, which highlights several new products and brand extensions launched in recent weeks. This episode also features a conversation with Good Culture co-founder and CEO Jesse Merrill and Steve Young, a managing partner with private equity firm Manna Tree, about the synergy between profit and purpose. 0:35: Jan, We Hardly Knew Thee. Expo What? VIPs Always Get Perks. Granola, Beans, Oats & Vibes. – Upon the arrival of a new month, the hosts looked ahead to Expo West 2024 and noted benefits that Taste Radio VIPs can receive at the event. They also chatted about Poppi's new TV advertisement, sampled a new line of “cookie granola,” spoke about why a “basic” oat milk might resonate with Gen Z consumers and lauded luxury brownies and cold-brewed tea. 31:54: Interview: Steve Young, Managing Partner, Manna Tree & Jesse Merrill, Co-Founder/CEO, Good Culture – During Manna Tree's Leadership Summit in Vail, Colorado, Steve and Jesse sat down with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif for a conversation that began with a review of morning routines and why the Good Culture CEO no longer wakes up with anxiety. The discussion shifted to the interaction between investor and entrepreneur, balancing core values and business fundamentals, and why patience is a key aspect of their relationship. Jesse also explained why Good Culture prioritizes “consumer love and consumer demand” and why they both agree that “mission drives return” on investment. Brands in this episode: Good Culture, Poppi, Olipop, Culture Pop, Pepsi, Coke, Athletic Brewing, Ithaca Hummus, Nature's Bakery, Fig Newton, Somos, Heyday Canning, A Dozen Cousins, Purely Elizabeth, Oatly, MALK, Lexington Bakes, Honey Mama's, Erva, Weekday Vibes

This week we make a huge annoucement! Eddy Rotten comes through to talk about his new project, Dozen Cousins, perform a new track and give details on his release show. And OC rapper, CRAEV comes through to talk his new track, Move On and project, The Opposite of Fiction, plus perform two tracks! All that and a new Mandoh Mix!  @714craev @eddy_rotten  @therodriguezshow @mvndoh @iamcesarrod @rodriguezpodcasts Book Mandoh: Mandoh@rodriguezshow.com https://linktr.ee/therodriguezshow

Can Coolhaus make a comeback? Although the beloved non-dairy ice cream brand is reportedly on the chopping block, the hosts discussed a potential salvation akin to those of discontinued brands resurrected by new owners. This episode also features the latest installment of The Goat Pen with Carlton Fowler, the co-founder of Goat Rodeo Capital, who spoke about his “obsession” with outliers.  Show notes: 0:41: Wine In Baja. RIP… But, Maybe Not? Bliss Balls, Energy Gels, Pizza Nuts. – Jacqui shared details of a recent visit to Baja's burgeoning wine scene, before the hosts collectively reflected on their favorite defunct brands and why some received a second chance. They also chatted about a mashup of notable products, including canned beans with a nostalgic twist and citrus-infused cold brew coffee. 30:00: Segment: The Goat Pen With Carlton Fowler – Fowler riffed on his love for Magnolia Bakery's new packaged cookie line before explaining how he defines and invests in outlier companies and his perspective on celebrity and creator-led brands. He also explained why a brand's track record isn't necessarily an indication of its potential, how and why investors can get it wrong and his advice on what to leave out of a pitch deck. Brands in this episode: Vita Coco, Zico, Coolhaus, Brave Robot, Honest Tea, Just Ice Tea, Dirty Lemon, Ibex, NJoy, Rise Brewing Co., La Colombe, Door County Coffee, Bai, Lemon Perfect, Chargel, Raw Bliss Balls, Creation Nation, Healthy Truth, Combos, Daily Crunch, Goldfish, Heyday Canning Co., A Dozen Cousins, Fillo's, Barnacle Foods, Frank's Hot Sauce, Tabasco, Nectar Hard Seltzer, The Good Crisp, HopLark, BeatBox Beverages

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Ibraheem Basir, Founder & CEO of A Dozen Cousins, a natural food brand that makes convenience side dishes inspired by traditional Creole, Caribbean and Latino recipes. Their product lines include authentic ready-to-eat beans and rice.Follow Ibraheem Basir on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ibraheembasir/ Follow A Dozen Cousins on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-dozen-cousins/ Follow A Dozen Cousins online at: https://adozencousins.com/ Ibraheem answers these questions:1) Your career has some elite brands in your background but you decided to be an entrepreneur. Take us through your days in Brooklyn to IVY leagues and now as founder of A dozen cousins . What advice would you give to someone early in their career in this space seeking to follow in your footsteps from corporate to entrepreneurship?2) How did A Dozen Cousins  get founded did you start digitally-native or in physical retail -  and how you spend your time on it ? What is the role of education and content in the brands mission: to inspire families of all backgrounds to eat better food and live longer more vibrant lives.3) As a minority founder (like Inhave been)and  leader trying to grow and compete with giants in the food space, how does your everyday thinking go - what drives you and what constitutes success? How do you interact with retail everyday?4) Take us through the portfolio of product categories that a consumer may choose from in your brand. What makes each product unique and why is it better than the rest available in supermarkets and online?5) In a world of omnichannel consumers where the digital reach of food has exploded in the last 3 years, how are you staying ahead, are there specific advertising methods that drive wins for you and the brand?6) What are your current year distribution goals and are you setting a 3 year strategy? How will you measure success? How large is your distribution?7) No organization can be successful without the right leaders and brand stewards? What makes a good leader - what is their DNA? How do they connect with you and lead this cause of brand equity growth for A dozen cousins ?8) The last question on the cpgguys is always ‘fast forward' - what's next for you and A dozen cousins ? How can our audience interact with the brand and taste it?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comCPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.comNextUp Website: http://NextUpisnow.org/cpgguysRetailWit Website: http://retailwit.comDISCLAIMER: 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.

This week on the podcast, the hosts discussed their smash-and-grab introduction to AriZona's new line of hard teas, a Ted Lasso sighting at BevNET Live and a category-defining victory for non-alcoholic cocktail brands.  This episode also features an interview with Luke Holden, the founder and CEO of Luke's Lobster, a vertically integrated and family-owned seafood company based in Saco, Maine. Luke's Lobster operates a chain of fast-casual restaurants, a frozen meal line made with Maine-sourced lobster and a wholesale business that is the top selling frozen lobster brand in the U.S.  Show notes: 0:37: Rushmore, Or The Darjeeling Limited? You Had Us At Sledgehammer. See You At SFFS. – The episode opens with a chat about Wes Anderson movies, before Ray shared his dismay about an inaccurate profile and wayward comparison. Mike spoke about his brief, but memorable, stint as an Avenger, the hosts collectively congratulated NA cocktail brand Parch on winning New Beverage Showdown 25 and then highlighted several new products, including from BFY snack brand Lesser Evil and Moroccan food company Mina. 28:03: Interview: Luke Holden, Founder/CEO, Luke's Lobster – Holden spoke with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif about Luke's Lobster's collaboration with Sweetgreen, the company's origins and focus on sustainable sourcing and the traceability of its seafood, how it communicates quality to consumers and its efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the lobster industry. Brands in this episode: AriZona Beverages, Parch, Ghia, De Soi, Mina, LesserEvil, Rind, Once Upon A Coconut, Beachball, A Dozen Cousins, Fillo's, Omsom, Somos, Luke's Lobster

The hosts discussed the news that Michelle Obama has joined kids' food and beverage company PLEZi Nutrition as a co-founder and strategic partner and spoke about the potential impact of the former first lady's influence and political connections on the brand's development. They also highlighted the 10 brands named as part of Target's third Takeoff Food and Beverage program. Show notes: 0:43: Mike Missed A Lot Of Recesses. You Only Need To Watch Lost Once. Get It In Schools. – Melissa Traverse fills in for John Craven and her excellent seating posture gives way to a chat about fidgeting and Mike's misbehavior as a youth. The hosts collectively urged early-stage beverage founders to apply for New Beverage Showdown 25, before they spoke about what Michelle Obama will bring to the table in her new role as PLEZi co-founder and why not everyone is pleased with her foray into CPG. Later, they noted that several emerging brands often mentioned on Taste Radio landed a spot in Target's accelerator program, congratulated two companies whose products are now sold at Erewhon and chatted about several new and notable products, including a golden milk mix, a pouch drink for Gen Z consumers and a better-for-you option for a quick meal. Brands in this episode: Liquid Death, Super Coffee, Vive Organic, PLEZi, Better Chew, Resist Nutrition, Honeycut Kitchen, Glonuts, Immorel, Homiya, Brooklyn's Tea, Bumpin Blends, Mocktail Club, Soldadera, Better Sour, Struesli, Anjali's Cup, Hapi Water, Sea Monster, Off Limits, Somos, A Dozen Cousins, Talk House Cocktails

Ibraheem Basir, the founder and CEO of A Dozen Cousins, joins us for episode 193 of the Food Biz Wiz Podcast! If you haven’t heard about A Dozen Cousins, then you’re in for a special episode. A Dozen Cousins is the national bean, rice, and sauce company bringing Creole, Caribbean, and Latin American flavors to consumers in easy-to-cook meals. You won’t want to miss hearing about… Why he focused on launching in retail first How he leveraged his food passion and industry experiences What values A Dozen Cousins stands for and how they weave them into their work Their process for hiring diverse, values-aligned team members and building team culture Ibraheem’s wisdom in navigating the CPG scene is invaluable. Learn even more about his brand and send us a DM on Instagram, LinkedIn, or the Food Biz Wiz Facebook group by following this link to our full show notes. You can also find the links to the other episode and resources mentioned there, too! This episode is sponsored by our mini Reorder Checklist! This checklist is a list of ways to onboard a new retailer so that you’re more likely to sell off those shelves and receive reorders. You can find our simplified version at the link here OR, if you’re a Retail Ready® student, you can find the longform version and training directly within our course platform!

Amber Bylund is the VP of Sales Strategy at Siddhi Capital Holdings ("Siddhi"). With 15 years of experience working in the CPG industry, first at General Mills and Danone, then at A Dozen Cousins, Amber is now a member of Siddhi's diligence and strategy team. On this episode of ITS, Amber breaks down sales channels as well as her best practices for building out a sales function at an early stage CPG company.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!In The Sauce is Powered by Simplecast.

0:47: Interview: Alison Cayne, Founder & CEO, Haven's Kitchen – Let's kick things off with Alison Cayne, the founder and CEO of fast-growing refrigerated sauce brand Haven's Kitchen. In this clip, pulled from an episode published on July 12, Alison spoke about how she created an office environment that motivated her team to return to an IRL work setting, why the brand's innovative package design is both an asset and a limitation and navigating the challenge of uneven retail pricing.  12:04: Interview: Dan Lourenco and Ryan Hughes, Co-Founders, Ghost – Next up we have Dan Lourenco and Ryan Hughes, the co-founders of sports nutrition and energy brand Ghost. In a clip pulled from an episode featured on October 25, Dan and Ryan spoke about why generating revenue is not at the top of the list of company priorities, why entrepreneurs have to go “all in” to be successful, why they believe you can't create a lifestyle brand and why Ghost has never used social media as a marketing tool.  22:44: Interview: Anna-Lena Kamenetzky, Founder & CEO, Touch Capital – Let's keep it going with Anna-Lena Kamenetzky, the founder and CEO of growth-stage venture capital firm Touch Capital. In this clip, from our episode published on October 4, she discussed the value of entrepreneurs with prior industry experience, why an “‘A” idea doesn't work with a “C” team, how she evaluates innovative brands and their scaling potential why investor feedback and input only works “if it's a pull and not a push.” 30:04: Interview: Ibraheem Basir, Founder/CEO, A Dozen Cousins – Next we have Ibraheem Basir, the founder and CEO of A Dozen Cousins, a brand of side dishes and sauces inspired by traditional Creole, Caribbean and Latino recipes. In the following clip, pulled from an episode published on June 28, Basir spoke about how the company's initial focus has evolved, ensuring quality standards with co-manufacturing partners and why “keeping a foot in the familiar” is a key tenet of the brand's innovation strategy.  40:56: Interview: Chitra Agrawal, Founder & CEO, Brooklyn Delhi – We continue with Chitra Agrawal, the founder and CEO of Brooklyn Delhi, a brand of Indian-inspired pantry staples crafted for modern kitchens. In this clip, pulled from an episode aired on September 13, Chitra discussed why she didn't pay herself a salary for the first four years of the business, how the company has scaled with no outside investors, how she created favorable contracts with co-manufacturers and how the company has benefitted from an omni-channel sales strategy. 49:14: Interview: Maxime Pouvreau, Founder, Petit Pot – Finally, we hear from Maxime Pouvreau, the founder of premium pudding brand Petit Pot. In the following clip, pulled from an episode published on September 27, Max explained why he has stressed frugality and cautious spending from the outset and how the hire of an experienced operations executive and thoughtful planning strategy helped the company scale production and achieve profitability. Brands in this episode: Haven's Kitchen, Ghost Lifestyle, Super Coffee, A Dozen Cousins, Brooklyn Delhi, Petit Pot

Ibraheem Basir started his career at General Mills, where he worked on iconic brands like Annie's and had the opportunity to learn about sourcing and ingredient quality—and that's when the idea for A Dozen Cousins. Ibraheem wanted to make food that was good for people and that also evoked the same feelings he associated with his childhood. At first, the business was bringing in enough to cover rent, but what Ibraheem really needed was to get into retail. And then this happened.

When Ibraheem Basir launched A Dozen Cousins in 2018, retail buyers questioned the marketability of the brand's first products, a line of premium-positioned cooked beans. Four years later, those buyers are asking a different question: “How do we keep up with consumer demand?” Hear how this former General Mills marketing executive founded A Dozen Cousins to increase accessibility of better-for-you food. Initially within Black and Latino communities, now with greatly expanded distribution into all communities nationwide. Healthy ingredients, authentic seasonings and convenient preparation – this brand is going gangbusters! You will be energized hearing Ibraheem's story of how A Dozen Cousins has evolved and so much more. You don't want to miss hearing this incredible episode with Ibraheem Basir. On this episode of #TheKaraGoldinShow. Enjoying this episode of #TheKaraGoldinShow? Let me know by clicking on the links below and sending me a quick shout-out on social. Or reach out to me at karagoldin@gmail.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/karagoldin/ https://www.instagram.com/karagoldin/ https://twitter.com/karagoldin https://www.facebook.com/KaraGoldin/ Check out our website to view this episode's show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/286 List of links mentioned in this episode: A Dozen Cousins Instagram https://www.instagram.com/adozencousins/ To purchase A Dozen Cousins: https://www.adozencousins.com

Taste Radio's hosts discussed several recently announced collaborations, including those of high-profile drink brands that have aligned to create new RTD cocktails, a well-known entertainer and an upstart energy drink company and a humanitarian initiative that connects with better-for-you brands. They also chatted about notable new products, including a line of shelf-stable tamales, NA wine and beer and a protein bar with a somewhat odd name. Show notes: 0:52: It Wasn't Intended To Be A “Gotcha.” The Uniform, Upgraded. Cookies Make Ray Happy. – After a brief chat about the perpetual problem of uneven heating and cooling in offices, Ray puts John on the spot about a prediction that came true and the hosts collectively spoke about what moves their needles for canned cocktails. They also praised UNSTUCK, an initiative that connects leading CPG brands with suppliers that hire refugees, offered mixed opinions about a brand-centric music video and lauded innovative new products, in particular an amaretto-flavored cola, spiked aguas frescas and soft, doughy cookies. Brands in this episode: Coca-Cola, Jack Daniel's, Frecsa, Simply, Vita Coco, Captain Morgan, Topo Chico, Chobani, That's it, La Colombe, GoodPop, Petit Pot, Pitaya Foods, Joyburst, Gruvi, Visitor Beer, Fillo's, A Dozen Cousins, Calidad, Jambar, Powerbar, Ghia, Brooklyn Cannery, Bell's Cookie Co.

Ten years ago, Alison Cayne opened a cooking school in New York City called Haven's Kitchen. The goal was simple: help local residents learn how to make better food at home and enjoy doing it. Although the pandemic forced the school to shut its doors in 2020, the mission of Haven's Kitchen lives on in the form of an eponymous consumer brand of refrigerated sauces. Available in eight globally-inspired flavors, including Golden Turmeric Tahini, Edamame Green Goddess and Herby Chimichurri, the sauces are packaged in transparent, squeezable eco-friendly pouches. The products debuted in 2018 and are now available in over 2,000 locations, including at Whole Foods, Target, Sprouts, Giant and Foxtrot. Much of the retail growth has come over the past two years and reflects the brand's surging sales: a 500% year-over-year increase in 2020 and +80% in 2021. In an interview featured in this episode, Cayne spoke about the origins of Haven's Kitchen, the impact of the brand's innovative packaging and striking label design on trial, why emphasizing use case and occasion is critical for consumer adoption and repurchase and how effective merchandising of the products has enabled it to become “the ultimate basket builder.” She also explained how to use anecdotal data effectively when pitching to retail buyers, navigating the challenge of uneven retail pricing and how she found a co-packer that would invest in the brand's future. Show notes: 0:42: Interview: Alison Cayne, Founder & CEO, Haven's Kitchen – Taste Radio editor Ray Latif met with Cayne at Haven's Kitchen's test kitchen and office in the Soho neighborhood of Manhattan where they chatted about nostalgic snacks, her team's desire to return to an IRL work setting and Whole Foods' influence on the launch of Haven's Kitchen sauces. She also explained the reason behind the brand name, how the company successfully broke traditional rules of branding and package design, educating mainstream consumers about esoteric flavors and why Chobani's head of innovation told her to stop innovating. Later, she spoke about how an argument with her partner led to an emphasis on gross margin, why she's bullish on Target, despite the chain's pricing strategy, and why her podcast has been beneficial to her education about the food industry. Brands in this episode: Haven's Kitchen, SOMOS Foods, Kind Snacks, Cholula, Chobani, A Dozen Cousins, Sabra, Perfect Snacks, Lucky Charms, Snickers, Ithaca Hummus, Spudsy, Sir Kensington's, Momofuku

When Ibraheem Basir launched A Dozen Cousins in 2018, retail buyers questioned the marketability of the brand's first products, a line of premium-positioned cooked beans. Four years later, those buyers are asking a different question: “How do we keep up with consumer demand?” A former marketing executive with General Mills, Basir founded A Dozen Cousins to increase accessibility of better-for-you food within Black and Latino communities via healthy ingredients, authentic seasonings and convenient preparation. Available in varieties such as Mexican Cowboy Pinto Beans and Trini Chickpea Curry, the beans are packaged in microwavable pouches that can be heated in 60 seconds. As A Dozen Cousins expanded distribution, the brand found traction with a broad variety of consumers seeking a quick, flavorful meal or side dish. The company has since added two complementary product lines – bone-broth cooked rice and seasoning sauces for rice and meat dishes – and widened its presence in stores across retail channels, including Whole Foods, Walmart, Trader Joes, Kroger and REI. In an interview featured in this episode, Basir spoke about how the brand's initial focus has evolved, working with co-manufacturing partners to ensure quality standards, why sampling was critical to its development and why keeping a foot in the familiar is a key tenet of its innovation strategy. He also explained why A Dozen Cousins is relatively quiet about raising capital and shared his take on improved opportunities and continuing challenges for BIPOC food entrepreneurs. Show notes: 0:42: Interview: Ibraheem Basir, Founder & CEO, A Dozen Cousins – Basir spoke with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif at NOSH Live Summer 2022 where they discussed their shared experience growing up in large families, alternate names for A Dozen Cousins and how the brand addresses “two different levels” of consumer needs. Basir also spoke about how he prepared for a national launch at Whole Foods while the brand was still in its infancy, the impact of his experience as an employee at a large food conglomerate, what social media taught the company about the unexpected ways consumers used the beans and what moved the needle for retail buyers that were initially skeptical about the brand. Later, he explained why the launch of A Dozen Cousins' rice was about creating something “additive” to the category, why he wants the brand to be “in the middle of the spectrum” when it comes to innovation, the reason the company isn't vocal about funding and why he points to the lack of “insider knowledge” as a hurdle for BIPOC founders. Brands in this episode: A Dozen Cousins, Annie's

Our childhood experiences have major influences on our present and future, and although some of our childhood experiences were not pleasant, we can always chart a new course by learning from the past and shooting for the stars aiming for greater days ahead.  Our guest's on this episode is Ibraheem Basir, founder of A Dozen's Cousins, a brand bringing you yummy, good for you, and soulfully seasoned beans, bone broth rice, and seasoning sauces all while retaining authenticity Ibraheem and I chatted about the role of food in his big family while growing up. He has nine siblings and a good meal was their way of showing love and celebrating milestones. Nothing beats a good home-cooked meal bursting with authentic flavor. Ibraheem Basir combined inspiration from his upbringing and knowledge from work experience in corporate America to found A Dozen Cousins.For the full show notes, visit our website: https://www.blackonshelf.com/episodesStream Black on Shelf NOW on Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube, Google Podcast, Amazon Music, Stitcher, and Pandora!To connect further with A Dozen Cousins:Visit the A Dozen Cousins website: www.adozencousins.comFollow A Dozen Cousins on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adozencousins/Visit the Project Potluck website: https://www.potluckcpg.org/Connect with Black on Shelf:Follow BOS on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackonshelf/Connect with BOS on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/black-on-shelf/Connect with Tenaj on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tenajfergusonFollow BOS on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Blackonshelf/Visit the Black on Shelf website: https://www.blackonshelf.comWatch the full interview on Youtube: https://youtu.be/9ppYixPBVUs 

The 3 Squares discuss the latest polling on consumer attitudes about trust and authenticity in making food choices, and gain insight from a successful startup navigating these waters today. Ibraheem Basir is the Founder and CEO of A Dozen Cousins, and we'll talk about his journey developing a successful start up food brand built on authenticity, community and trust. Hear about the role of DTC and traditional retail in the evolution of A Dozen Cousins. And at the end of show? Good vibrations and strange sensations. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We talk all things sales, A Dozen Cousins, coming from big CPG, sales decks, innovation and more.

This week, we're joined by Alexander Harik, founder and CEO of Zesty Z, a brand of condiments, popcorn and seasonings inspired by the Mediterranean diet. Born in Brooklyn, Zesty Z debuted in 2017 and has attempted to introduce Middle Eastern flavors to American households via easily understood and accessible products, beginning with its flagship zaatar and olive oil blend, which gained national distribution at Whole Foods within a year of its launch. The company has since extended the brand via a three-SKU line of popcorn infused with Mediterranean flavors, such as thyme and feta, and a line of table seasonings, which includes everything bagel and zaatar varieties.  In an interview featured in this episode, Harik discussed the duality of Zesty Z as an authentic Mediterranean food brand whose products are designed to reach a broad set of consumers, how he initially won over independent retailers on his way to coast-to-coast distribution, the process of scaling from a single product to a platform brand and how he's navigated challenges and surprising roadblocks as an Arab-American food entrepreneur. Show notes:  0:48: Sipping Aguas Frescas Out Of A Trophy… It's A Thing. Also, You'll Want Your Microwave For This. -- NOSH reporter Erin Cabrey helped kick off this episode, which arrived just ahead of BevNET and NOSH's Virtually Live Summer 2021. The hosts discussed the agenda for the event, which is loaded with informative panels, interactive discussions and much more, along with the recently held New Beverage Showdown 21 competition, which was won by aguas frescas brand Agua Bonita. Later, they spoke about an innovative take on microwave popcorn, exquisite frozen desserts, better-for-you pantry staples and “electrifying” beverages. 18:51: Interview: Alexander Harik, Founder/CEO, Zesty Z -- Harik sat down with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif and spoke about the origins of the company, how its whimsical name differentiates Zesty Z from legacy Mediterranean food brands and the key elements of a first market-viable product. He also explained his process for landing the brand's first 25 retailers, how he built strong relationships with local and national Whole Foods buyers and how he chose popcorn as the brand's second and most scalable product line. Later, he discussed how the bigotry and racism he experienced in the wake of 9/11 impacted his journey as a food entrepreneur and why he's concerned that Arab-Americans are not classified as a minority group by some industry organizations.  Brands in this episode: Zesty Z, La Colombe, A Dozen Cousins, Agua Bonita, Olipop, Opopop, Dolcezza Gelato, Vybes, Electra, Unlit, High Road Craft Ice Cream, Incredo Spreads, Not Just Co., Nutella, Siete, Dang Foods

A solo episode series highlighting woman or minority-owned food & beverage companies that deliver on taste, nutrient density, social impact and/or environmental stewardship. A Dozen Cousins makes "soulfully seasoned beans." A Dozen Cousins (free U.S. shipping) Also on amazon.com and Whole Foods @adozencousins on Instagram Project Potluck

In episode nine, Accountfully's Managing Partner, Brad Ebenhoeh sits down with A Dozen Cousins' CO-Founder and CEO, Ibraheem Basir.  Ibraheem grew up in Brooklyn in a big family (hence the name) and wanted to combine two important elements into one product; take the joy of the eclectic multicultural flavors he experienced eating with his family, and turn it into a convenient, healthy food option.  He is no stranger to the complex food business, and has worked for large CPG companies.  These opportunities allowed him to hone his talent for understanding the formal business side, especially recognizing untapped business opportunities. Ready-to-eat beans became the right option because of their ability to combine the elements of "taste, health, and culture".  It was also an untapped market in the food world.  Basir takes us on the journey of his growing empire and outlines the strategic, yet methodical thought processes that have allowed him to realize his business goals. You can also read more inside insight on our client spotlight, featuring A Dozen Cousins on the Accountfully blog:  http://blog.accountfully.com/tag/meet-our-clientsThe A Dozen Cousins Website:  https://www.adozencousins.comAccountfully's Client Spotlight on A Dozen Cousins:  https://blog.accountfully.com/client-spotlight-a-dozen-cousinsMORE RESOURCESMore CPG Resources:  http://bit.ly/Accountfully_ResourcesJoin The Accountfully Alliance Group:Become part of the in-depth conversation with fellow CPG business owners     Facebook:  http://bit.ly/Accountfully_Alliance_FB     LinkedIn:  http://bit.ly/Accountfully_Alliance_LIDownload The Inventory Handbook:  http://bit.ly/TheInventoryHandbookUse the power of your inventory to grow your business

We hope you're hungry, ‘splainiacs (okay, wait, this one is actually really good) because today's episode is full of beans—emotionally and topically. Did you know that expression means ‘lively; in high spirits'? Which works out great because our guest today is the founder and CEO of A Dozen Cousins, Ibraheem Basir, and his joyful energy and branding insights will put you in high spirits indeed. A Dozen Cousins is a natural (and delightful) food brand making convenient products inspired by traditional Creole, Caribbean and Latin American dishes and their first product is a line of authentic, regional beans that are cooked in nutrient-dense avocado oil. Are you getting our ‘full of beans' reference now? Great. The brand is inspired by his childhood growing up in the culinary melting pot of Brooklyn and is named after his daughter and her 11 cousins. (We, naturally, spend several minutes discussing how fun the name is to say and how much memorability and charisma it exudes.) Prior to launching A Dozen Cousins, Ibraheem obtained his MBA from the Wharton School of Business and served as a Marketing Manager on a number of natural food brands including Larabar and Annie's Organic. We chatted with Ibraheem about his ethos of celebrating food as a source of joy and a means of forging connection, and he walked us through how he developed the A Dozen Cousins brand personality from a visual and verbal storytelling perspective. Other food for thought and belly laughs included:—His desire to bring laughter and joy back to the dinner table, and his upbringing with 9 siblings—Harnessing that ‘inside joke' playfulness into A Dozen Cousin's branding—How when it comes to the natural food space, health and culture and convenience do not have to be at odds —The story behind the brand name and logo and why word of mouth is so impacted by the name you choose—Branding lessons he learned during his time working in marketing for Larabar and Annie's Organic—The social impact component central to his company's mission—The important role that authenticity plays in using humor in your branding—His beef with banana pudding You can check A Dozen Cousins out at Instagram: @adozencousins or https://adozencousins.com/ Minute markers for your skimming pleasure (how dare you): 6:58 Spiller Qs10:03 Branding Qs