Podcasts about expo west

Jason Schwartze, founder of Moonglade Craft Soda, shares the decades-long journey from a kitchen obsession with perfecting ginger beer to a freshly launched line of certified organic farmers market-inspired craft sodas. He talks about his background as a park ranger and agricultural inspector, how that shaped his passion for regenerative farming and ocean health, and why joining 1% for the Planet felt less like a business decision and more like an extension of who he already was. Jason digs into the innovations that made Moonglade possible, from solving the carbonation problem in organic beverages to discovering a mushroom fiber extract preservative that keeps his sodas shelf stable. He wraps up by inviting the community to seek out products that are real. And to trust that when something comes from a family and a farmers market, it probably is.Takeaways:Moonglade Craft Soda is a family business out of Oceanside, California that got its start at farmers markets about ten years ago.The brand just launched four certified organic RTD cans, farmers market inspired craft sodas, with roughly half the sugar of conventional soda.Jason's background in agriculture, and as a park ranger, directly informs his commitment to supporting farmers and regenerative practices.Moonglade is a 1% for the Planet member, with a focus on two causes: supporting organic and regenerative agriculture, and keeping plastics out of the ocean.A key innovation for the brand was solving the carbonation loss problem that usually plagues natural sodas.Moonglade uses a natural mushroom fiber extract as a preservative that keeps the product shelf stable without affecting flavor.Jason credits Naturally Network with helping him solidify his growth strategy giving him the clarity and confidence he needed to move forward.Conscious business is a personal ethos for Jason, not just a marketing strategy.Sound Bites:"I basically became obsessed with trying to find a better ginger beer.""It can't be forced, it can't be contrived. What I'm doing is not contrived. It is who I am.""I probably would have given up if the iterative process wasn't a thing. Every time I do something, I have to keep going because it's so much better.""Nobody wants a flat root beer.""If it came from a family and a farmers market, it's probably pretty real.""She just gave me some real clear goals and strategy that I felt like I'd never had before and just gave me a ton of confidence. Without Naturally Network, we wouldn't have had that."Links:Jason Schwartze on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-schwartze-9057b12a3/Moonglade Craft Soda: https://moongladesoda.com/Moonglade Craft Soda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moonglade-craft-soda/people/Moonglade Craft Soda on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoongladeCraftSodaMoonglade Craft Soda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moongladesoda/...Naturally Network: www.naturallynetwork.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_radio…The Food Institute - https://foodinstitute.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cajua and Josh have been selling on Amazon since 2017. They started with private label and also tried each of the popular models, including Retail Arbitrage, Online Arbitrage, and Wholesale Distribution. Now they focus on being a brand-direct growth partner (aka an Accelerator) for small brands. They've generated millions in revenue for their brand partners, host the Ecom Unlimited Podcast, and help run The Wholesale Network. A community for people growing their wholesale businesses on Amazon. You can connect with them on their social platforms here.   Episode Notes: 00:09 - Meet Kaja and Josh from E Comm Unlimited 01:30 - Starting with eBay flips, YouTube, and private label 02:38 - Early private label lessons from a crowded product launch 03:20 - Finding a better opportunity with bat boxes 04:27 - Early sales, COVID inventory issues, and bootstrapping limits 05:31 - Moving into retail arbitrage 06:19 - The Goodwill book flip that proved arbitrage could work 07:16 - Shifting from arbitrage to wholesale 08:09 - Why online arbitrage was hard to scale 08:55 - How supply chain issues led to brand direct 09:56 - Why smaller brands create strong Amazon opportunities 10:16 - Using SmartScout to find overlooked brands 11:26 - Expo West and trade show opportunities 13:15 - Finding brands with clear Amazon pain points 14:40 - Common brand objections to Amazon sellers 15:42 - Building relationships at trade shows 16:46 - Why timing and follow-up matter 18:24 - Educating brands on Amazon supply chain issues 20:18 - DTC brands and Amazon confusion 21:30 - Why smaller brands may need brand-direct partners 22:06 - Why consumables remain exciting on Amazon 23:24 - Why Amazon is still growing despite seller fatigue 24:37 - The skills sellers need to win today 25:40 - Why trade shows keep sellers excited 27:04 - The Wholesale Network and brand-direct education 28:32 - Where to find E Comm Unlimited   Related Post: Top 5 Ways to Increase Reviews on Amazon Products   Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ecom.unlimited Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecomunlimited.io/   Cajua: Twitter: https://twitter.com/CajuaRobinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cajuarobinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cajuarobinson/   Josh: Twitter: https://twitter.com/Joshua_Dambman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshua_dambman   Scott's Links: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813 X: @itsScottNeedham Instagram: @smartestseller YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371 Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog

After more than a decade of grinding in obscurity – including years of failed commercialization attempts and even living in his brother's basement – Toom founder and CEO Matt Joyce is finally turning a humble garlic dip into one of the fastest-growing CPG brands in America.  In this conversation, Matt reveals how he transformed a beloved Lebanese staple into a mainstream condiment, why he stayed under the radar for years, and how a relentless focus on flavor, branding and persistence helped him break through with major retailers and build a family-run success story. Show notes: 0:20: Matt Joyce, Founder & CEO, Toom – On location at Expo West 2026, Matt shares the story behind Toom, a condiment inspired by his Lebanese roots and a desire to offer something different from the usual ketchup. He talks about how, instead of marketing it as a niche ethnic product, he focused on creating a brand with broad appeal through strong, universal branding. Matt dives into the decade of research, development, and tweaking it took to get Toom to market, and how he handled rapid growth once everything clicked. He also opens up about his relentless outreach to buyers and how a big break with Whole Foods helped put the brand on the map, leading to opportunities with retailers like Wegmans, Publix, and Costco. Matt discusses the importance of direct feedback from consumers, the power of in-store demos, and his strategy of keeping the brand low-key until it gained real momentum. Throughout it all, he credits his family's support, his own determination, and a long-term vision for pushing through years of uncertainty. Brands in this episode: Toom, Sabra

Something on your mind? Erica & Jules would love to hear from you! Expo West is great, and trade shows are super fun, but do the products actually make it to shelves afterwards? And if they do, do the products and brands have staying power for 10+ years on? Jules and Erica reflect back on some of their favorite brands and products they've met at Natural Products Expo West over the years and what is still in their cabinet/fridge/freezer after all these years. BRANDS HIGHLIGHTED:Sweet Loren's Simple MillsEnjoy Life FoodsNana Joe'sZEGOCaulipowerOtto's NaturalsBrazi BitesBanzaFeel Good FoodsRIP Artisan BistoUdi'sMolly's SudsTruEarthHealthy HooHaMedicine MamaMNML (laundry detergent)Spinster SistersGourmiaPasture BirdWildbrineTreelineViolifeGood PlanetHomiah Sambal Chili CrunchZiba foodsOctonutsBhujaSan-JPascha ChocolateGuittardDandiesContact/Follow Jules & EricaFind us on IG @CeliacandTheBeast & @gfJulesFollow us on FB @gfJules & @CeliacandTheBeastThreads @CeliacandTheBeast & @gfJulesEmail us at support@gfJules.comFind more articles, recipes & info at gfJules.com & celiacandthebeast.comThanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe!**some links may be affiliate links; purchasing through these links will not cost you more, but will help to fund the podcast you ❤️

In this episode of Since Sliced Bread, Keith Nunes, editor of Food Business News, shares his takeaways from this year's Expo West and how they're shaping the snack category. 

In this exclusive Expo West 2026 interview, Mark Alyn sits down with Dr. Asli Samanci of Bee & You to explore how bees create propolis, why it's essential for their survival, and how it can support human health in remarkable ways. From immune support and energy to skin health and longevity, this natural compound is gaining attention worldwide.You'll also hear the powerful personal story behind Bee & You—how Dr. Samanci developed a patented propolis extract after it helped her son recover from a serious health condition. Plus, learn why bioavailability matters, how their extraction process makes a difference, and what sets their products apart in a crowded market.We also dive into innovative skincare, including bee venom formulations and propolis-based sunscreens that protect your skin while still allowing vitamin D production.And don't miss the bigger picture—why bees are essential to life on Earth and what their future means for ours.

In this exclusive Expo West 2026 interview, Mark Alyn sits down with Dr. Asli Samanci of Bee & You to explore how bees create propolis, why it's essential for their survival, and how it can support human health in remarkable ways. From immune support and energy to skin health and longevity, this natural compound is gaining attention worldwide.You'll also hear the powerful personal story behind Bee & You—how Dr. Samanci developed a patented propolis extract after it helped her son recover from a serious health condition. Plus, learn why bioavailability matters, how their extraction process makes a difference, and what sets their products apart in a crowded market.We also dive into innovative skincare, including bee venom formulations and propolis-based sunscreens that protect your skin while still allowing vitamin D production.And don't miss the bigger picture—why bees are essential to life on Earth and what their future means for ours.

In this special episode of "The Vitamin Professor podcast" I interview over a dozen people to get their takes on what's hot and trending at Natural Products Expo West, as well as within their own companies. Some of the answers are what you would expect while others are a bit more surprising. Enjoy!This podcast is brought to you in partnership with VRM Media and Nutraland USA, Inc. For more information about our host and guest, please see the below information.⁠https://nutralandusa.com/⁠linkedin.com/in/gene-bruno-ms-mhs-rh-ahg-2ab0508/⁠https://www.vrmmedia.com@hnvirtual, #hnvirtual, #genebruno, #thevitaminprofessor, #expowest Find our podcast on your favorite platform:podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vitamin-professor-podcast/id1746137375youtube.com/channel/UCxeQ-IuqCRmq0YLc...Amusic.amazon.com/podcasts/a8a96593-b93c-48cf-9fe9-2891c4035dad/the-vitamin-professor-podcastiheart.com/podcast/269-the-vitamin-professor-podc-175888136/

How did two 20-something founders turn a $7,000 investment into one of the fastest-growing brands in CPG, now selling one unit every three seconds? It started with a deceptively simple idea, relentless sampling, meticulous planning and a confident bet that protein ice cream could outshine the biggest names in the game. I met up with Protein Pints co-founders Paul Reiss and Michael Meadows at Expo West 2026 to discuss the origins and development of their high-protein ice cream brand They share why leading with "protein" was key to standing out, how years of sampling and iteration shaped the product, and how they scaled from just 14 stores to over 10,000 in just under one year.    Fueled by strong branding, great taste, and relentless execution, their rapid rise highlights the power of product-market fit and founder conviction. Show notes: 0:20: Interview: Michael Meadows & Paul Reiss, Co-Founders, Protein Pints – Paul and Michael reflect on their longtime friendship and how their college experiences ultimately led them to start a company together. They explain that including "protein" in the brand name was a deliberate choice, meant to clearly signal the product's core benefit in a crowded frozen aisle. They also detail the more than two years they spent preparing for launch, rigorously testing recipes, packaging, and branding through extensive sampling and feedback. To fund the business, they reinvested earnings from a small service venture and supplemented that capital with prize money from pitch competitions. They credit strong sales, clear positioning, and a relentless focus on taste as the primary driver of repeat purchases. They acknowledge concerns about scaling too quickly, but lean on conviction in their product and timing, bolstered by a growing team and a network of mentors. Brands in this episode: Protein Pints, Taste Radio, SkinnyPop, Muscle Milk, Ben & Jerry's, Häagen-Dazs, Van Leeuwen, Super Coffee, Sauz

Episode 2781 - Vinnie Tortorich and Anna Vocino discuss food trends from Expo West, protein and fiber being added to packaged foods, and more. https://vinnietortorich.com/2026/03/trends-from-expo-west-episode-2781 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS Pure Vitamin Club Pure Coffee Club NSNG® Foods VILLA CAPPELLI EAT HAPPY KITCHEN YOU CAN WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE - @FitnessConfidential Podcast Vinnie's workout videos are available to purchase! Choose from a 2-day, 4-day, or 6-day workout–or buy all three at a discount! TO PURCHASE VINNIE'S WORKOUT VIDEOS, CLICK THIS LINK: https://vinnietortorich.com/workout Trends from Expo West Anna just returned from Expo West, which is a convention for food vendors. (4:00) They discuss the size of the event and how massive it is. Sometimes it brings out others' unsavory behavior. Vinnie tells the story of a recent visit from his step-daughter. (19:00) He ate something he usually doesn't, and his body felt the change. But he went right back to NSNG, and within a day or two, his body was back to normal. Take care of your body, and inflammation will be reduced. (24:00) Vinnie shares an example of a consultation with someone not named Bryce. (26:00) Anna says vendors at Food Expo are trying to appeal to low-carb differently. (29:45) Protein and fiber are trending. They discuss various products that Anna picked up as samples. There is a challenge to getting products on shelves when they don't fit into a specific category. (51:00) Don't get sucked into these products with all the additives. (56:00) A New Sponsor Jaspr Air Scrubbers has a discount code, VINNIE, that gets you $300 off for a limited time. Jaspr offers a lifetime warranty. Go to Jaspr.co for more information or to purchase. (1:05:00) You can book a consultation with Vinnie to get guidance on your goals. https://vinnietortorich.com/phone-consultation-2/ More News Serena has added some of her clothing suggestions and beauty product suggestions to Vinnie's Amazon Recommended Products link. Self Care, Beauty, and Grooming Products that Actually Work! https://www.amazon.com/shop/vinnietortorich/list/3GPVU29UHHPMY?ref_=aipsflist Don't forget to check out Serena Scott Thomas on Days of Our Lives on the Peacock channel. "Dirty Keto" is available on Amazon! You can purchase or rent it here.https://amzn.to/4d9agj1 Please make sure to watch, rate, and review it! Eat Happy Italian, Anna's next cookbook, is available! You can go to https://eathappyitalian.com You can order it from Vinnie's Book Club. https://amzn.to/3ucIXm Anna's recipes are in her cookbooks, on her website, and on Substack —they will spice up your day! https://annavocino.substack.com/ PURCHASE DIRTY KETO (2024) The documentary launched in August 2024! Order it TODAY! This is Vinnie's fourth documentary in just over five years. Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries Then, please share my fact-based, health-focused documentary series with your friends and family. Additionally, the more views it receives, the better it ranks, so please watch it again with a new friend! REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! PURCHASE BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE (2022) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries FAT: A DOCUMENTARY 2 (2021) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries FAT: A DOCUMENTARY (2019) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries

Andy attended Expo West and got a bag of snacks (not sponsored) to try. We also talk about movies, stuff, things, and such.

Billion-dollar deals, breakout brands, and "crazy ideas" that actually worked. The hosts dive into a wave of recent CPG acquisitions and what they signal for founders. Plus, a look at brands going global, a buzzworthy Negroni-inspired sparkling water, and a conversation with industry veteran Jeff Church and "Peaky Blinders" actor Matthew Postlethwaite on their upstart protein soda brand, Proda. Show notes: 0:20: Registration Reminder. Linked Deals. Pond Crossing. Lapping It Up. Mex-BBQ. – The hosts kick off with reminders about upcoming Taste Radio and BevNET events before diving into recent acquisitions involving Huel, Monaco RTD cocktails, and Dirty Shirley. They note that these deals underscore the importance of long-term persistence, strong execution, and adapting to shifting consumer trends, emphasizing that most brands take years to reach such milestones. The conversation also touches on the challenges of expanding between the U.S. and U.K., highlighting how cultural differences and varying levels of consumer familiarity can influence success. Later, Ray shares sips of Lapo's latest opus, Melissa spotlights an innovative tea, and John features a flavorful nut butter and Mexican BBQ sauces, the latter sparking a broader discussion about the rise of similar products. 30:29: Interview: Jeff Church & Matthew Postlethwaite, Co-Founders, Proda – On location at Expo West 2026, Jeff and Matthew talk about how Proda was designed to deliver nutrition in a lighter, refreshing format. They discuss the inspiration behind the brand, their focus on taste and positioning, and how they're approaching a competitive beverage landscape with an exclusive Sprouts launch. Brands in this episode: Proda, Huel, Monaco Cocktails, Dirty Shirley, Soylent, Sunnie, RXBAR, Vitaminwater, Goodles, Pop Chips, Liquid Death, Living Things, XOXO, Peeps, Crush, Slice, Suja, Lapo's, Sanzo, Mabi Tea, Bachan's, Ground Up, Paco Jones, Arriba, Tia Lupita, Tierra Negra, Oh My Dessert Butters, Olipop, Poppi, Rowdy Energy

The wellness world is noisy. New products are constantly launching, all claiming to be "better for you." This episode helps you cut through the clutter and come back to what actually matters: simplicity, nourishment, and feeling good in your body. Looking for the best healthy food products of 2026? In this episode of Centered in the City, I'm breaking down my top picks from Expo West, one of the biggest natural foods trade shows in the world. From high-protein snacks to fiber-rich favorites, plus the rise of honey-based products, functional gummies, and greens-infused treats, this episode is your insider guide to what's trending in wellness right now—and what's actually worth trying. I walk you through my personal favorites, what makes them stand out nutritionally, and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine without overcomplicating your life. If you've ever felt overwhelmed walking down the health food aisle, this episode will help you simplify your choices and discover products that truly support your energy, gut health, and overall well-being. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The biggest food trends from Expo West 2026 My go-to snack recommendations (that actually taste good) The best protein products for sustained energy and recovery The rise of honey as a functional product My favorite greens powders + vitamin-infused products Healthier chocolate treats you'll want to keep stocked

It's vest season and the struggle of female underwear , new trendy food from Expo West -- are we here for oat milk sheets and pizza cupcakes? and Disney cuts ties with OpenAISee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Evergreen founder and CEO Emily Groden arrived at Expo West 2026 leading one of the fastest-growing brands in frozen breakfast. But just a few years earlier, she was hand-making waffles in a shared kitchen and pitching corner stores with a toaster tucked into a duffel bag. In this episode, Emily explains how she turned a personal frustration into a breakout brand built on clean-label frozen waffles and pancakes made with real, whole-food ingredients. She shares why she refused to compromise on quality, even when it made manufacturing more difficult, and how Evergreen is leveraging protein innovation, strong retail data and a sharper family-focused brand identity to scale across channels. It's a candid look at what it takes to build a modern CPG company – from zero experience to category leadership – while staying anchored to the mission of getting better food into more kids' hands. Show notes: 0:20: Emily Groden, Founder & CEO, Evergreen – Emily discusses the launch of Evergreen's new pancakes and a clean-label protein line made with Greek yogurt and egg whites. She reflects on the brand's origins and how she built the company from scratch with no CPG background, self-funding the business and landing early retail accounts through scrappy, hands-on efforts. She explains how a recent rebrand helped better communicate Evergreen's core audience of families, shifting from a health-first perception to a more joyful, accessible identity. The conversation also covers Evergreen's broader mission to improve kids' nutrition at scale, its focus on affordability and mass distribution, and how strong retail data has fueled expansion by proving the brand brings new, high-value shoppers into the category. Emily also touches on fundraising, founder discipline, and why staying anchored to a clear personal "north star" has been critical to building the brand without compromising its values. Brands in this episode: Evergreen

Something on your mind? Erica & Jules would love to hear from you! In this episode, Erica shares her favorite Expo West 2026 gluten-free finds with Jules, who was unable to attend the show. While the ladies chat about innovation in the aisles, they also warn about the importance of reading labels every time - especially with new products, Alpha-Gal in the times of beef tallow, and RFK Jr. and anything MAHA promotes. BRANDS MENTIONED: Rudi's Gluten FreeBanzaEvery Body EatGotham GreensSimple MillsPartakeMade GoodGood PopOatlySieteSweet Loren'sGoodie GirlLil' BucksQuinnContact/Follow Jules & EricaFind us on IG @CeliacandTheBeast & @gfJulesFollow us on FB @gfJules & @CeliacandTheBeastThreads @CeliacandTheBeast & @gfJulesEmail us at support@gfJules.comFind more articles, recipes & info at gfJules.com & celiacandthebeast.comThanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe!**some links may be affiliate links; purchasing through these links will not cost you more, but will help to fund the podcast you ❤️

This week we chat with Kenny Hausmann from Fresh Thyme Market! Kenny oversees the Healthy Living Department and we will be chatting all things emergings brands, Expo West and Retail Leadership!

Aly and Erica discuss wellness trends, share personal updates, and talk Expo West 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gary Vaynerchuk believes the future of CPG might look a lot more like Pokémon than packaged goods. We met up with Gary at Expo West 2026, where the entrepreneur and marketing powerhouse discussed Very Luckee, his new better-for-you gummy brand that pairs the promise of ultra-clean ingredients with collectible stickers from his VeeFriends character universe.  In the conversation, Gary explains how the idea came together, why he's betting big on collectibles as a driver of consumer engagement, how organic social media will power the brand's growth, and why entrepreneurs should embrace "micro quitting" when a strategy or product isn't working. Show notes: 0:20: Gary Vaynerchuk, Co-Founder, Very Luckee – On location at Expo West 2026, Gary discusses the origins of Very Luckee, its focus on ultra-clean ingredients, and its approach to blending CPG with collectability. He shares his perspective on modern brand building, emphasizing the importance of consistently creating content across multiple social platforms. Gary also highlights the growing role of influencer advocacy and emerging commerce channels. He offers advice for entrepreneurs as well, encouraging founders to let go of tactics that aren't working while remaining committed to long-term ambitions. Gary also notes that entrepreneurship is a "hits-driven" business that requires humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to pivot when necessary. Brands in this episode: Very Luckee, Empathy Wines

In this special bonus episode of HEARD, Kappy shares insights from Expo West - the natural and organic CPG industry's biggest event. He joins Ilana Shenitzer, EVP of Consumer Brands at Ruder Finn, to talk about the brands, collaborations, founders, and food products that stood out on the show floor.Links and handles mentioned in this episode:Cloud 23 | Cravings | Caliwater | Once Upon A FarmPromobile Marketing | Sababa Foods x Fearless Eggs | Little Sesame x Yellowbird | Gato Dates | Tamar Date Coffee Kooshy Croutons | Popnuts | Purely Elizabeth | Poppi | FishwifeSiete Foods | GoodlesFrontera Foods | Stacy's Pita Chips | Larabar | MadeGood | Rao's | Carbone Fine FoodSimply NKD Chips | Amylu FoodsZahav Foods | Sweet Loren's | Just Ice TeaEvergreen Waffles | Nana Joes Granola | CirC Protein BitesGoldie Lemonade | Ice Cream For BearsFollow Beyond the Plate on Facebook and X.Follow Kappy on Instagram and X.www.beyondtheplatepodcast.com www.onkappysplate.com

In this episode of the Modern Retail Podcast, special projects editor Melissa Daniels and senior reporter Gabriela Barkho discuss their favorite food and beverage trends of 2026. Fresh off of Expo West, the episode's discussion revolves around what is considered “in” and what's “out” across categories. Protein sod and functional coffee remain hot items. Meanwhile, the noise against seed oils continues to grow in the better-for-you space, with brands boasting products made with alternatives like beef tallow and avocado oil. The emerging trends in 2026 include: High-protein and “fibermaxxing” across nearly all food and drink categories.  An all-in-one approach to routines, such as combining daily creatine dose with the morning coffee, often in portable packaging.  The MAHA movement's growing influence on trends in food, beverage and wellness is only growing in 2026.

Target is expanding its food and beverage footprint with new store concepts and larger grocery sections – potentially creating more space for emerging brands. In this episode, the hosts discuss what it means for startups and also spotlight notable trends and brands from Expo West. We also revisit interviews from our Miami meetup, including a conversation with angel investor Spencer Slaine on what he looks for in early-stage brands. Show notes: 0:20: Expo Energy. IRL All Year. Nom News. Bullseye, Babe. Mez & The Gang. Citrus Boost. – The hosts recap the energy and standout trends from Expo West and preview upcoming industry events, including BevNET Live and Taste Radio meetups. Melissa highlights a Nombase Podcast episode that features insights from investors who launched their own CPG brand and revealed how they think about pricing, ingredients, and growth. The hosts also discuss Target's expanding focus on food and beverage and how founders can take advantage, highlight a major funding round for protein bar brand Mezcla and reflect on brands born during the COVID era. They sample several new products, including espresso sodas, probiotic mouthwash (yep) and cocoa-flavored bone broth. 32:27: Interviews from Taste Radio's Miami Meetup – We kick things off with Spencer Slaine, a founding member of The Angel Group, who explains how the early-stage investment network helps early-stage CPG brands bridge the funding gap with both capital and operator expertise. He is followed by Little Saints founder and CEO Megan Klein who shares how her functional, non-alcoholic cocktail brand was born out of  a personal shift toward moderation and has become an anchor in the fast-growing adult non-alcoholic beverage category. Rounding out the discussion is AB InBev's Conrad Barrett who talks about PerfectDraft, a countertop system designed to bring bar-quality draft beer into the home, highlighting how consumer feedback and AI-driven insights are shaping its growth.  Brands in this episode: Little Saints, PerfectDraft, Stella Artois, Guinness, Athletic Brewing, Lucky Energy, Kate Farms, Trip, Mingle Mocktails, Cadooz, Mezcla, Poppi, Fishwife, B.T.R. Nation, Unite Foods, Folkland, Farmwell, Painterland Sisters, One Degree Organics, Moozy, Singing Pastures, Esspo, Manhattan Special, Basicase, Pikora, PWR UP, Good & Gather

This week on The LA Food Podcast, Luca Servodio and Karen Palmer break down the biggest restaurant industry story of the year: the escalating Noma scandal surrounding chef René Redzepi and the $1,500-per-person Noma pop-up in Los Angeles.Following a bombshell New York Times investigation into abuse and labor practices at Noma, protests erupted in LA led by former Noma fermentation director Jason Ignacio White. Sponsors pulled out, demonstrators gathered outside the Paramour Estate, and Redzepi ultimately announced he would step away from Noma's day-to-day operations. Luca and Karen unpack what happened, why this moment hit differently than past allegations, and what it means for the future of fine dining, kitchen culture, and restaurant labor. Before diving into the controversy, the hosts share their latest LA restaurant recs and recent eats, including meals at Republique, 88 Club, Bell's in Los Alamos, Pinyon in Ojai, and more.Then in Part 2, you'll hear audio from the Noma protest press conference in Los Angeles, where organizers laid out demands including leadership change, worker reparations, and broader industry reforms addressing unpaid labor and abusive kitchen culture. All that, plus Chef's Kiss / Big Miss covering LA Times popcorn nostalgia, the rise of the San Luis Obispo Coast wine region, Expo West's protein-everything food trend, and drama inside the world of food media.--Presented by mva.wine. Subscribe to you first collection to discover unique wines that are meticulously selected and rarely (if ever) seen in LA. First 20 people to become members using code "LAFOOD" receive $50 off at check-out.

Hear the #1 food trend coming out of the biggest food show in the world and how George Zhou, founder of BUFFS, is transforming salty snacks with a better tasting, better for you, "beef Cheetos".George shares his experience at Expo West, one of the biggest food trade shows in the world, what trends he's seeing in food and beverage, how he built BUFFS while still in college, and why the next wave of food brands might look a lot more like farm-to-table than lab-to-shelf.George also shares the unexpected role AI played in building Buffs, how trial-and-error (and a lot of ChatGPT) helped shape the product, and why tools like Claude are becoming part of the modern founder toolkit.Plus, George shares a few insights on the wild world of TikTok and what it really takes to earn consumer attention.STAY CONNECTEDJAMES on Twitter & Linkedin – /jamesborowDANIEL on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok – /danieldruger

In this keynote from Expo West, I share my current strategy for conquering the evolving media landscape, which has shifted from "social media" to "interest media" where content finds its audience. I explain why CPG brands must view themselves as media companies and aggressively invest in organic content creation across multiple platforms, dedicating at least 20% of their marketing budget to organic social production.  You'll learn about:Why I'm Tired of Brands Ignoring Organic SocialThe Secret Connection Between YouTube Shorts and Gemini LLMAI is the New Internet: Why You're Not Too LateMy 20% Rule for Organic Social Production (Even for Small Brands)How to Become a Media Company That Sells a ProductWhy Efficiency (Not Hustle) is the Key to Finding More TimeThe Danger of Compromising Culture and IngredientsI reveal the crucial role of YouTube Shorts in feeding the Gemini Large Language Model (LLM) to help your products show up in search results. Plus, I tackle the panic around Artificial Intelligence (AI), confirming that you are not behind and providing immediate steps to start leveraging these powerful tools to become more efficient and win the future.

In this week's episode, I shared my biggest takeaways from Expo West and my gluten-free food adventures.  What I loved and brands launching new products for us gluten free eaters this year 2026!Podcast Rundown:Favorite bite: Braised Beef Stroganoff from Oceans and Earth https://www.oanderestaurant.com/Favorite Brand: AmyLu Foods https://www.instagram.com/amylufoods/Favorite IG account: https://www.instagram.com/glutenfreetravelstheworld/Thanks for listening this week! I love you guys. Thanks for making my dreams come true! PLEASE leave a rating or review!!! xx

At Expo West I expected a plant-forward food show… but what I found instead raised a lot of questions.In this episode of the Vegan Hacks Podcast, I break down the surprising presence of meat products and even beef tallow at what used to feel like a very vegan-friendly event.I also sit down with some incredible founders pushing plant-based innovation forward:• Liz Kang, Founder and Co-CEO of Mamame, creating bold tempeh chips • Madelyn Hadley, Founder of Madly Hadley, crafting clean-label vegan staples like coconut bacon bits and cashew parmesan • Jeremy from Steak 'n Shake, who explains the company's controversial move to cook with beef tallowIt's a fascinating mix of food innovation, industry reality, and the big question:Where is the plant-based movement heading next?Send a text

It was great catching up with Dan Frommer. Dan is the founder and editor in chief of The New Consumer, a sharp and essential publication covering the intersection of technology and consumer culture — and one of the smartest people thinking and writing about what Americans are actually buying, eating, and obsessing over. Every year, Dan publishes a major consumer trends report timed to Expo West, the natural and organic products trade show in Anaheim, and this year's edition — a 68-slide deep dive produced with Coefficient Capital — is full of big findings. Matt catches up with Dan to talk about some of their new product discoveries while attending the show, as well as Dan's recent writing about Sweetgreen and how Americans actually want to consume protein. Brands discussed on the episode: Smith Tea Maker, Coyotas, Waterloo, Flow Hydration, Van Leeuwen, Moozy Milk, Little Latke, Brause, Wasted, Oatly, Rambler, Wholesome Bakery, Lasso, Zahav Foods, Lexington Bakes, Yuzu Co., Row 7, Sourmilk.  Subscribe to This Is TASTE: ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're shouting out all the amazing female restauranteurs in the Twin Cities and checking in with Jill Holter at Expo West in Anaheim, CA. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Expo West 2026 made one thing clear: food and beverage brands are racing to add function, but the ones that nail flavor have the best chance of winning. The hosts break down the show's biggest trends, from protein-packed everything to standout brands in candy, beverages, frozen treats, and snacks, while sharing the products and ideas that reinforced a simple truth: in modern CPG, taste still comes first. Show notes: 0:23: Barking Dogs. Plenty Of Protein. Where's The Fiber? Blurring Lines. Sweet (Date) Treats. – The hosts are wiped but loquacious as they break down the biggest themes and trends from Expo West. They highlight the surge of protein across nearly every category – from popcorn, chips, and pretzels to beverages and ice cream – and debate whether some applications make sense today or may become more relevant in the future. Ray emphasizes that taste remains the ultimate test, spotlighting standout brands such as high-protein ice cream maker Protein Pints. The team also notes that added fiber was surprisingly less visible at the show and wonders whether it faces a bigger consumer education hurdle than protein. They examine emerging beverages like spiked prebiotic or probiotic sodas and question their long-term appeal. Beyond functional products, they highlight innovative brands discovered around the show, including crispy jerky chips, soy-based high-protein yogurt, sea moss lemonade, non-alcoholic cocktail alternatives, a modern MSG brand, and date-based candies positioned as better-for-you sweets. Brands in this episode: Khloud, Jam Packed, Lumen, Sky Pop, David, Protein Pints, Manitoba Harvest, Belly Well, Poppi, Pop Sips, Beast, YAY's, Tezza, Bitter Love, Tips, Mother Root, OSIA, Dime MSG, Black Beverly Hills, Oh My Dessert Butter, Sleet Pops, Chara, Benny Bites, Ohum, Kias, Gato, Lasso Jello, Wobbled Jello, Very Lucky, True Dates, Joolie's, Smood, Daddl, Harken Sweets, Farmwell, Quip, House of Joy, Crafty Ramen, Prickly, Fresh Fizz, Leisure, RXBAR, Häagen-Dazs, Ben & Jerry's, Van Leeuwen, Swedish Fish, Mounds, Almond Joy, High Noon

TODAY ON THE ROBERT SCOTT BELL SHOW: LIVE! Natural Products Expo West Anaheim, Glyphosate Supreme Court Fight, Autism Research Split, Gain of Function Research, COVID vs Sovereign Silver, Secret Food Chemicals, Arizona Vax Parental Consent, Cell Tower Radiation, COVID Justice Resolution, and MORE! https://robertscottbell.com/glyphosate-supreme-court-fight-autism-research-split-gain-of-function-acceleration-listener-question-about-covid-transmissibility-secret-food-chemicals-arizona-vaccine-parental-consent-cell-towe/ Purpose and Character The use of copyrighted material on the website is for non-commercial, educational purposes, and is intended to provide benefit to the public through information, critique, teaching, scholarship, or research. Nature of Copyrighted Material Weensure that the copyrighted material used is for supplementary and illustrative purposes and that it contributes significantly to the user's understanding of the content in a non-detrimental way to the commercial value of the original content. Amount and Substantiality Our website uses only the necessary amount of copyrighted material to achieve the intended purpose and does not substitute for the original market of the copyrighted works. Effect on Market Value The use of copyrighted material on our website does not in any way diminish or affect the market value of the original work. We believe that our use constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Law. If you believe that any content on the website violates your copyright, please contact us providing the

Mayo, booze, jerky, ranch, and more genius new products are pitched by the fellas, using Expo West as the inspiration to create the next big consumer packaged goods concepts.

This week on Two Parents & A Podcast, we're audio only (SORRY, but that's IRL recording, baby. PS we saw your feedback (THANK YOU!!!) and we're gonna try this for a few weeks before regrouping). ANYWAYS — we're starting with a relationship milestone nobody talks about: the first time you see your partner truly sick. It turns out it teaches you just as much about a relationship as your first vacation together… maybe more. From there, we get into the modern logistics of adult life, including the “phone call slot” problem (miss it and you're benched for the day) and the realization that a shocking number of adults (*cough cough* US) don't know how to change a tire, write a check, or address an envelope. That naturally leads us into how fast AI is moving, how jobs are shifting in real time (important note: AI still cannot change a tire), and what all of this actually means for people trying to build careers right now. Then we share our top three tips for throwing a baby sprinkle that people will actually enjoy, look ahead to Expo West with a toddler (and why bringing a grandparent as backup is elite strategy), and share that we've OFFICIALLY narrowed baby boy names down to four. Then come the debates. Self-checkout tipping… are we doing this now or not? Expiration dates - law or just vibes? (we HAD to get Harrison's “expert” opinion). And can you ACTUALLY trust Google reviews?! We wrap with a few life things: front porch hangouts with neighbors, pregnancy pee science (why it's worse lying down and why no one warns you), and a glucose update that involved cake and immediate regret. LOVE YOU GUYS. Thanks for listening!!! Timestamps:  00:00:00 Welcome back to Two Parents & A Podcast! 00:01:39 The relationship milestone NOBODY talks about  00:08:16 The “phone call slot” problem (miss it and you're benched) 00:10:28 Schools need a mandatory class called “Life” (changing tires, writing checks, labeling an envelope) 00:17:56 AI is moving FAST… and jobs are shifting 00:23:02 Top 3 tips for the perfect baby sprinkle 00:40:05 Expo West with a toddler (and bringing a grandparent as backup!) 00:47:04 We narrowed baby boy names to 4 00:51:47 Self-checkout tipping… are we doing this now?! 00:59:20 BICKER OF THE WEEK cont: expiration dates - law or “vibes”? 01:03:55 Front porch hangouts with the neighborhood 01:07:05 IN THE COMMENTS: Pregnancy pee science (why it's worse lying down) 01:08:30 Glucose update: I ate cake and paid for it 01:12:15 Can you trust Google reviews? 01:19:28 LOVE YOU GUYS!  #twoparentsandapod --------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors this week: *Ollie: Cozy up with your pup this season! Go to https://www.ollie.com/twoparents and use code twoparents to get 60% off your first box! *IM8: Go to https://www.IM8HEALTH.com/TWOPARENTS and use code TWOPARENTS for a Free Welcome Kit, five free travel sachets plus 10% off your order. *SKIMS: Shop my favorite bras and underwear at http://www.skims.com/twoparents  #skimspartner *If you want to feed with confidence too, head to https://www.hibobbie.com for the formula trusted by 700,000+ parents *For a limited time, go to https://www.Care.com and use code TWOPARENTS for 20% off your initial subscription or a Senior Care Advisor Plan --------------------------------------------------------------- Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple: https://www.youtube.com/@twoparentsandapod https://open.spotify.com/show/7BxuZnHmNzOX9MdnzyU4bD?si=5e715ebaf9014fac https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-parents-a-podcast/id1737442386 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Kappy shares what's on his plate at the moment.Links and handles mentioned in this episode:The Benjamin Hollywood | IG3 Farm DaughtersSous Vide Egg BitesExpo WestNassau Paradise Island Wine & Food FestivalBrodo | Chef Marco CanoraFollow Beyond the Plate on Facebook and X.Follow Kappy on Instagram and X.www.beyondtheplatepodcast.comwww.onkappysplate.com

Will Animal Protein Dominate Expo West This Year?Next week, the natural foods world descends on Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim. The Super Bowl of natural foods In past years, it felt like a plant-based paradise — innovated alt-meats launching, vegan innovation exploding down every aisle.And yes… there will be new important, plant launches. There always are.But the bigger question this year:Is animal protein about to dominate the narrative?  ASend a text

This week on Two Parents & A Podcast, you get Two Parents for about 10 minutes… and then Jules takes over for Harrison. So for everyone who's been asking in the comments for more Jules: this one's for you (hi, mom). (ps. I still will not be going on camera. Don't push it guys lol -Jules) Before the handoff, we cover a LOT. Pregnancy sickness recovery being wildly unfair, whether we're accidentally becoming sourdough people (apparently like Taylor Swift?!), and what it's like doing Expo West with a toddler in tow. We share a Bubber buckle fracture update, a hard parenting rule we learned the hard way (never skip snack time), and get into glucose intolerance… plus the surprising internet consensus that sourdough might actually help?? From there, we talk neighborhood social committees, joining a junior professionals board, and then we officially made it past all the things we had planned to talk about that I could do without Harrison - cue Jules stepping in (being thrust in…). OK we covered - secret “single behaviors” we all do, whether bricking your phone ACTUALLY works, Millennials vs. Gen Z (Jules does, in fact, call Alex cheugy), and the importance of the group text. We also discover you can apparently petition to bring back discontinued flight paths (??), play a round of Two Truths & a Lie (two truths… Jules can't lie), and have a very real moment about how fast kids grow up. Things We DMed takes a turn with a headline that stopped us in our tracks: a baby born from a womb transplant from a deceased donor — and the bigger ethical conversation that followed. Then it's Bicker of the Week (expiration dates: law or loose suggestion?), a practical baby #2 conversation about needing a bigger car, why the naughty corner doesn't actually work the way we think it does. We wrap with a quick note that we are hiring (kind of) — but if you DM us, you're automatically disqualified. LOVE YOU GUYS. Thanks for listening!!!  Timestamps: 00:00:00 Welcome back to Two Parents & A Podcast! 00:03:44 Pregnancy sickness recovery is UNFAIR 00:05:09 Are we becoming sourdough people…? 00:08:34 Expo West… with a toddler  00:09:15 Bubber's buckle fracture update 00:10:44 Parenting rule: NEVER skip snack time 00:14:12 Glucose intolerance… and sourdough might SAVE me?? 00:19:03 Neighborhood social committees  00:20:51 I joined a junior professionals board… 00:23:58 Harrison taps out, Jules fills in 00:27:17 Secret “single behaviors” we all do 00:29:35 Does bricking your phone ACTUALLY work?!  00:30:54 Millennials vs Gen Z (Jules calls Alex cheugy)  00:33:10 The group text  00:37:49 Wait… you can PETITION to bring back flight paths?! 00:39:13 Two truths & a lie (Jules edition) 00:41:42 Kids grow up too fast 00:42:33 THINGS WE DMED: Baby born from a deceased womb donor?! 00:52:16 BICKER: Expiration dates are law (apparently) 00:58:32 Baby #2 = we need a new car (XL SUV time) 01:06:12 The naughty corner doesn't work?? 01:08:29 “LinkedIn-ifying” your life vs. reality  01:11:17 We're hiring… but don't DM us 01:13:24 LOVE YOU GUYS! #twoparentsandapod --------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you to our sponsors this week: *Hero Bread: Hero Bread is offering 10% off your order. Go to https://www.hero.co and use code TWOPARENTS at checkout. *Perelel: Exclusive for our listeners, new customers can enjoy 20% off their first order with code TWOPARENTS - Visit https://www.perelelhealth.com *Chime: It just takes a few minutes to sign up. Head to https://www.Chime.com/TWOPARENTS *Function Health: Visit www.functionhealth.com/TWOPARENTS or use gift code TWOPARENTS25 for a $25 credit toward your membership. *Edmunds: If you are planning to buy a car this year or even just starting to think about it, visit https://www.Edmunds.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The real ROI of Expo West starts long before the show floor opens. In this episode, the team breaks down best practices for exhibitors looking to maximize your time and resources at one of the most competitive trade shows in the world. From building buzz before the event to making your product instantly understandable on the show floor, they outline practical tactics that separate the booths people remember from the ones they walk past. Show notes: 0:23: Back To The Future. Expo Excellence. Protein Pretzels. Accelerate CPG. Shirleys, Hippies & Hops. — The hosts preemptively thank attendees and partners who supported Taste Radio's Miami meetup. The conversation then turns to Natural Products Expo West 2026, with a focus on how emerging brands can stand out at such a large-scale trade show. They share strategies for building awareness ahead of the event and maintaining momentum through effective post-show follow-up. The episode also highlights several new product launches, including SuperPretzel's protein offering, a new "Shirley Cola" from Ben Stiller-backed Sippin' Shirley soda, Lance Collins' revived Accelerator energy drink, Hoplark's yerba mate-based release, Hazards hop water, and Hippie Energy. Brands in this episode: Dirty Saint, True Dates, Super Pretzel, Accelerator, Hoplark, Hazards, Hippie Energy, Hippie Water, LifeAid, Core Water, BodyArmor, Fuze, C4, Ghost, Dr. Brown's, Stiller's Soda, Slice, Auntie Anne's

Gage shares his best practices for attending Natural Products Expo West – the biggest trade show in the United States for the better-for-the-world product industry! Tune in to hear 10 tips for making the most of the show, based on Gage's ~15 years of experience attending Expo West as a brand, packaging, booth, and campaign designer who's helped some of the industry most beloved brands stand out at the show. Tune into the episode or read below for his top tips! You can also download a copy here for easy reference later. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eBpd7dVhxB-30-yPrvQ8Mn8nAar5oYOUx6fX1B3Wevc/edit?usp=sharing. See you at Expo West!1. Define Your Target ROIHave a clear goal and outcomes in mind because the event is what you make it.Rightsize your investment. There's no shame in starting small, like a shared booth, table at StartUp CPG, sampling out of a backpack, etc. Even big brands need to be cautious of their spending because it adds up fast. But if you want to make a big splash, be willing to spend the money on the right opportunity.Aim to have your agenda 60% planned, but 40% flexible, because you never know who might pop up with some exciting and unexpected.2. Plan AheadBook your accommodations early, because everything near the Convention Center fills up quickly and gets very expensive.Find the sessions you want to attend, people you want to meet, and booths you want to visit through the app and social media posts, but also decide what's non-negotiable and what's optional for you, because you will get exhausted/overwhelmed.Make dinner reservations, book event venues, and meeting rooms in advance because there are a ton of competing groups looking for limited time slots.Order all your materials, swag, outfits, etc., well ahead of time because shipping delays happen, and you don't want to be caught empty-handed or paying the steep price to rush reprint in Anaheim.3. Be Clear & CompellingHave your 5-second pitch and main talking points ready, because there are way too many people and not enough time to stumble or be vague.Bring the energy, passion, and vibes because that attracts people to your booth, lifts everyone's spirits, and makes you memorable.Ask lots of questions to get to know people and how you can help each other. It can reveal incredibly powerful information for you both.4. Crush Your BoothMake sure it's clear what you're selling and what makes it special, otherwise your booth is likely to be missed (unless you're drawing attention, see below).Be unique but authentic, have a compelling story or theme for the show, and be engaging and fun as people walk up.Have events or activities at your booth that attract a crowd, and bring enough samples/goodies to go around. Tip: people are drawn to anything that's more than a tiny bite on a toothpick or a generic tote bag.Have a method for politely exiting conversations, like handing them off to an associate or introducing them to another guest, so you can be available when that critical retailer, investor, broker, or press badge arrives.5. Draw AttentionApply for a Nexty, participate in the Pitch Slam, or partner on an innovation with another popular brand. Do things that will make you more visible.Send out press releases, make announcements on social media, and offer the press a unique and exciting story to draw them to your booth.Invite an industry rockstar or celebrity to your booth for a meet and greet.Host a happy hour with a prominent group, like B Corp.6. Connect With Your CommunityAttend events hosted by your membership communities (B Corp, 1% for the Planet, Regenerative Organic, Upcycled, Non-GMO, Fair Trade, Climate Neutral, Climate Collaborative, Naturally Network, Purpose Pledge, Startup CPG, Project Potluck, :INCLUDED, etc.)Post updates in your preferred social channel (pictures, top finds, great insights, events, selfies, etc), tag people, and comment on others' posts! Wear your affiliations (shirts, hats, pins, stickers, lanyards, badges, etc).7. Take Care of YourselfHydrate and eat real food, or at least snack your way to well-balanced meals or your stomach and energy levels will regret it later.Dress comfortably and in layers. You'll be walking a lot, in and out of buildings, and the weather can change quickly. Bonus: dress memorably.Rest your feet and your back whenever you can. They will be sore.Get full nights of sleep when you can, and take some downtime in between things to recharge your batteries and brain.8. Be Brave, Be ActiveMeet people! That's why you're going. Don't just hide in your hotel, your booth, or in your co-worker/friend group. Get out there.Attend happy hours, events, and dinners even if you worked the booth all day, because that's the time to make real human connections.Go talk to that hero, buyer, investor, press, celebrity, etc because that's why they're here, and why you're here.9. Don't Try to Do it AllThe show is way too big to see every booth. Decide what's most important. It can help to pick a theme to focus, like a category, certification, stage of business, etc.There are too many sessions, events, and happy hours. Pick a focus and try to limit your FOMO. Divide and conquer with your team if you can.If you've been going as long as I have, you'll wish you could spend time with all your friends, collaborators, clients, podcast guests, and more… but it's best to be at peace with what you can do instead of worrying about what you can't.10. Follow Through Take notes on business cards, in an app, or wherever works for you because you won't remember every conversation, idea, or to-do item.Digest what you learned, who you met, and how you want to follow up each evening before that information gets too foggy.Make social posts each day, because you'll be too burned out and busy to catch up on social media after the show.Follow up with people during and after the show to solidify that new connection.Links:Natural Products Expo West: https://www.expowest.com/en/home.html10 Tips to Crush Expo West Download: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eBpd7dVhxB-30-yPrvQ8Mn8nAar5oYOUx6fX1B3Wevc/edit?usp=sharing. See you at Expo West!…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Expo West Best Practices05:23 Defining Goals and ROI for the Show08:21 Planning Ahead: Accommodations and Sessions10:42 Crafting a Clear and Compelling Message13:05 Maximizing Your Booth's Impact15:59 Drawing Attention and Engaging the Audience16:19 Connecting with Your Community20:40 Self-Care During the Event22:08 Being Brave and Active23:06 Managing Expectations and FOMO25:28 Following Through After the ShowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 2760- Vinnie Tortorich and Anna Vocino provide a guide on Reading Labels 101 to help you recognize poor ingredients in packaged products. https://vinnietortorich.com/2026/02/reading-labels-101-episode-2760 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS Pure Vitamin Club Pure Coffee Club NSNG® Foods VILLA CAPPELLI EAT HAPPY KITCHEN YOU CAN WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE - @FitnessConfidential Podcast Vinnie's workout videos are available to purchase! Choose from a 2-day, 4-day, or 6-day workout–or buy all three at a discount! TO PURCHASE VINNIE'S WORKOUT VIDEOS, CLICK THIS LINK: https://vinnietortorich.com/workout Reading Labels 101 They briefly talk about voiceover work. (2:00) Don Coddington has issued a challenge to Vinnie: No Cheese February. (19:00) Vinnie can't quite commit to that stretch of time. Anna recently made an NSNG version of mozzarella sticks. (23:00) They chat about buying beef tallow. (25:00) When buying tallow (or lard), read the label to ensure it is pure and contains no fillers. Anna discusses going dairy-free. (30:00) Her Eat Happy Too cookbook includes many dairy-free recipes or ones that can be modified to be dairy-free. You can purchase it here: https://annavocino.com/eat-happy-too/ Reading labels for food is essential. (36:00) Many products use marketing tactics that are misleading but still fall within legal limits. (38:00) Turn the package over and look at the "Nutrition Facts"; however, those numbers can be tweaked and may misrepresent the packaged food. (39:30) Vinnie and Anna give the breakdown. The truth lies in the actual Ingredients list. Different sweeteners will be listed in a single ingredient list to avoid adding numbers to the Nutrition Facts Panel. (44:00) This practice is not limited to sugar; it also uses seed oils. Anna discusses how product ingredients are measured and scaled up. (51:00) Vinnie will be having a guest who discusses how beef production affects what you get. (55:00) Price can always be a factor, but do the best you can with what you have. (58:00) Anna will attend ExpoWest and report back with trend updates. (59:00) Anna's spices are at all the SoCal Gelson's markets! Did you miss it?: The NSNG® VIP group closed, but you can get onto the waitlist for next time by signing up at https://www.nsngvip.com/join. A New Sponsor Jaspr Air Scrubbers has a discount code, VINNIE, that gets you $300 off for a limited time. Jaspr offers a lifetime warranty. Go to Jaspr.co for more information or to purchase. (1:05:00) You can book a consultation with Vinnie to get guidance on your goals. https://vinnietortorich.com/phone-consultation-2/ More News Serena has added some of her clothing suggestions and beauty product suggestions to Vinnie's Amazon Recommended Products link. Self Care, Beauty, and Grooming Products that Actually Work! https://www.amazon.com/shop/vinnietortorich/list/3GPVU29UHHPMY?ref_=aipsflist Don't forget to check out Serena Scott Thomas on Days of Our Lives on the Peacock channel. "Dirty Keto" is available on Amazon! You can purchase or rent it here.https://amzn.to/4d9agj1 Please make sure to watch, rate, and review it! Eat Happy Italian, Anna's next cookbook, is available! You can go to https://eathappyitalian.com You can order it from Vinnie's Book Club. https://amzn.to/3ucIXm Anna's recipes are in her cookbooks, on her website, and on Substack —they will spice up your day! https://annavocino.substack.com/ PURCHASE DIRTY KETO (2024) The documentary launched in August 2024! Order it TODAY! This is Vinnie's fourth documentary in just over five years. Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries Then, please share my fact-based, health-focused documentary series with your friends and family. Additionally, the more views it receives, the better it ranks, so please watch it again with a new friend! REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! PURCHASE BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE (2022) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! FAT: A DOCUMENTARY 2 (2021) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries FAT: A DOCUMENTARY (2019) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries

This week, we will be talking CPG SHOP - everything and anything. We are one month out from Expo West - and finishing up the mini-tradeshow season of UNFI/KEHE/Fancy Faire etc!

A teenage trader learns to move stock on Romford Market, then builds a clean‑label snack factory that challenges ultra‑processed bars and keeps going through COVID with a private‑label engine. Matt Hunt, co‑founder of The Protein Ball Co, joins us for a candid, high‑energy tour through graft, grit, and the choices that change a business. We dig into margins, manufacturing, pet treats you could eat, and a bold rebrand made to win shelves.• early market lessons shaping sales craft and urgency• olives to protein balls and the Expo West insight• outsourcing pain points versus owning production• factory build on a tight budget and fast scale to export• airline margins, cancellations, and cash discipline• educating customers on protein types and absorption• clean labels versus ultra‑processed ingredients• COVID impact and the private label pivot• launching human‑grade dog treats with low carbs• rebrand to Ballsy By Nature and paper packaging• returning to proactive sales with a stronger story• partnership roles, stress, and family balancePlease like and subscribe. And prior review, would really appreciate it. If you want to know more about starting a food business, head to www.jgreenwood.comSupport the show

Hiyo's founders turned a personal wake-up call into one of the fastest-growing adult non-alcoholic beverage brands in the country. Built on sharp strategy, standout design, and disciplined execution, Hiyo is now scaling nationally — including a newly inked Live Nation partnership placing the brand in major venues across the U.S.  In this episode, we sit down with Hiyo's three co-founders, Evan Quinn, Cygne Cooper and George Youmans, who discuss how this SoCal-born "social tonic" is redefining moderation, unlocking category whitespace, and proving that thoughtful focus can outpace flashy niche plays. Show notes: 0:25: Evan Quinn, Cygne Cooper & George Youmans, Co-Founders, Hiyo – Evan and George reflect on how simultaneous family crises related to alcohol prompted them to cut back on drinking and inspired them to create Hiyo. Cygne discusses how she crafted the SoCal-inspired brand identity and sunset-themed packaging. George notes that Hiyo was initially a DTC brand and grew carefully into retail once operations were strong and consumer demand was clear. Cygne talks about how Hiyo's booth at Expo West 2024 created an energetic, immersive experience before the founders explain how merchandising strategy varies by retailer, with Hiyo fitting either near alcohol or within functional beverage sets. George talks about Hiyo's national partnership with Live Nation, requiring tight coordination across design, production, logistics, and on-premise education. Brands in this episode: Hiyo, Liquid Death

In June 2025, the Contact Lens Institute (CLI) published Digital Discovery: Consumer Searches Reveal Contact Lens Realities, a comprehensive look at how and why people are seeking more information about these products online.The report examines multiple aspects of search behaviors, culled from public data sources, primarily focused on the United States and Canada. These include diving into the most common contact lenses searches via Google and on other platforms.CLI data also sheds light on the most common questions that reveal patient challenges, suggesting that the contact lens community may benefit from increased focus on health and safety, cost, wear and care, and how brands differAs traditional digital search evolves with the adoption of AI platforms, CLI also investigated how common large language models such as ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini are handling contact lens queries. While steadily advancing, those technologies' abilities to provide the best sources of information are inconsistent, meaning that practitioners may want to have preemptive conversations about AI-generated results with patients who are likely usersAt Vision Expo West, this September, a panel of CLI Visionaries including Andrew Bruce, Dr. Jade Coats, and Jennifer Seymour discussed some of the important findings of the Digital Discovery report.A little bit about the speakers:Andrew Bruce, LDO, ABOM, NCLEM, FCLSA, is a licensed master optician and contact lens fitting specialist in Vancouver, Washington, and founder of ASB Opticianry Education Services. Jade Coats, OD, FAAO, is a nationally recognized optometrist from Bentonville, Arkansas, with clinical expertise in ocular surface disease, dry eye management, contact lenses, and perioperative care for premium cataract and refractive surgery. Jennifer Seymour, LDO, FCLSA, NCLEM, ABO-AC, AAS, is a Nevada Licensed Dispensing Optician, ABO-AC and NCLE-AC nationally certified. Her passion for fitting contact lenses came during her schooling for licensure, learning how contact lenses change patients' lives.Learn more about the Contact Lens Institute and the Digital Discovery Report:https://www.contactlensinstitute.org/resources/digital-search/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

What separates beverage brands that break out from those that burn out? In this episode, industry veteran Ken Sadowsky – often known by his sobriquet, the “Beverage Whisperer” – offers a behind-the-scenes look at what's working (and what's not) in the fiercely competitive drinks industry.  Ken, who is the executive director of the Northeastern Independent Distributors Association (NIDA) and a senior advisor with Belgium-based investment firm Verlivest, draws from decades of experience and shares practical, battle-tested insights, from store checks in NYC bodegas to the growing influence of non-alcoholic spirits. He dives into a range of hot-button topics, including the ROI of trade shows like Expo West, the crucial role of effective packaging, and the delicate balance between innovation and consumer confusion. Along the way, he shares candid opinions on up-and-coming brands, expressing optimism for some while voicing skepticism toward others. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Ken Sadowsky, Sr. Advisor, Verlinvest – Ken Sadowsky talks about his passion for conducting store checks to stay current on emerging brands and trends and emphasizes the importance of trying new products, especially in diverse markets like New York City. He also explains how his background as a distributor and investor informs his observations and why advises early-stage founders to perfect their product in their hometowns before attempting to break into bigger markets. He and Ray sample a non-alcoholic margarita from Pentire and a collagen-infused sparkling water from Liquid Youth. They then discuss the rise of ANA beverages and the evolution of sweeteners in better-for-you sodas. Ken acknowledges Poppi's branding success and PepsiCo's acquisition of the company, but he remains skeptical about the long-term viability of the prebiotic soda category. The conversation continues with an exploration of the value of trade shows like Expo West, why ROI can be elusive and difficult to quantify, and his advice for startups with limited budgets. Ken and Ray sample more brands, including Fhirst, a U.K.-based probiotic soda brand, and Orange Toucan, a moringa-infused beverage. The discussion turns to the meaning of innovation in CPG, as Ken defines it as introducing something truly new, ideally with a functional or sustainability benefit that can reach mainstream audiences. They wrap the episode by spotlighting 67 Water, a culturally resonant brand targeting Gen Z and Gen Alpha; Glucosal, a Guatemalan electrolyte beverage only distributed in Miami; and Cadence, an isotonic drink brand. Brands in this episode: Liquid Youth, Poppi, Olipop, Liquid I.V., Celsius, Prime, Red Bull, Vitaminwater, Hint, 67 Water, Cadence, Pentire, Orange Toucan, Ringa, Kuli Kuli, Glucosal, Woody Creek Distillers, Mountain Dew, Vita Coco, Fhirst, Casa Azul, Bud Light, Electrolit, AriZona Beverages, GNGR Labs, MOTH Drinks  

A decade ago, Allison Ellsworth was drinking apple cider vinegar for health reasons and doctoring it with fruit so she could stand the taste. Her husband Stephen helped her turn it into a business by adding carbonation on a hacked soda line in their Dallas townhouse. They called it “Mother Beverage,” and sold out every week at the farmers market…but then heard the words no founder forgets: “Your branding is…sh*t.” What happens next is one of the wildest CPG glow-ups of the 2010s: a Shark Tank deal with brand whisperer Rohan Oza, a full rebrand to Poppi, colored cans that jumped off the shelf, a launch derailed by Covid—and finally, an explosion fueled by Amazon, TikTok, and a Super Bowl moment that planted the flag: We're soda–and we've left the farmers market for good. Five years after its rebrand, Poppi was acquired by Pepsi for nearly $2B. This is the story of the messy bottling line, saying no to “dumb money,” baptism by Shark Tank, and building a generational brand while staying married.In this episode, you'll learn:How rebranding can rescue a beverage, and when to avoid early eye-rolls The hit-and-miss of carbonating on a small scale (and why co-packers said no).How the risky decision to call Poppi “soda” unlocked a new retail set (functional soda).What a Shark Tank partner does during a rebrand window.How Allison seized on TikTok to spike sales during Covid Timestamps:0:10:15 Meeting cute at a snowboard shop → engagement in 7 months 0:14:00 How apple cider vinegar helped Allison's health…but tasted terrible (early flavor hacks) 0:22:36 DIY carbonation disasters: exploding bottles & the 40°F lesson 0:42:28 Selling out at the Dallas Farmers Market 0:37:48 Appearing on Shark Tank while nine months pregnant and the deal with Rohan: “your branding is sh*t.”0:47:02 The nail-biting rebrand from “Mother” to Poppi: colored cans vs. white, and winning the shelf 0:53:44 Expo West canceled by Covid → a massive turnaround fueled by Amazon, Shark Tank, and TikTok1:05:51 Super Bowl ad– “We're soda!”--and the road to a ~$2B Pepsi acquisition 1:07:58 Growing a business while managing a marriage Follow How I Built This:Instagram → @howibuiltthisX → @HowIBuiltThisFacebook → How I Built ThisFollow Guy Raz:Instagram → @guy.razX → @guyrazSubstack → guyraz.substack.comWebsite → guyraz.comThis episode was produced by Rommel Wood with music composed by Ramtin Arablouei. It was edited by Neva Grant with research help from Alex Cheng. Our engineers were Patrick Murray and Jimmy Keeley.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oakley Meta took center stage at Vision Expo West, where the Defocus Media team toured the EssilorLuxottica booth to see how AI, smart eyewear, and next-gen lenses can raise the bar on real-world patient care. Alongside Ray-Ban Meta and Nuance Audio, the team explored how design, fit, battery life, and everyday usability come together to help eye care professionals deliver better conversations in the exam lane and better outcomes in everyday life.

We're live from Vision Expo West in Las Vegas in the buzz of the show, discussing the new direction for Newton, formerly Neurolens with CEO and co-founder Davis Corley. Key Takeaways:Newton was inspired by Isaac Newton, one of the earliest fathers of optics and prism opening a new direction for three pillars: Sequel, Neurolens, and AI innovation.Sequel is the newest lens portfolio to hit the market, spanning two near relaxing designs and a full progressive. Driven by Convergence Boost technology, the lens eliminates the varients in prismatic effect as patients move form distance to near.Neurolens continues as the flagship product for Newton, leveraging the N3 device to deliver therapeutic optics to patients with symptomatic convergence issues.Newton is also investing in Isaac, an AI innovation and training platform to support private practice staff training and development.What Davis is reading: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick LencioniPractice Advantage Reading List** Don't miss out on an extra $15 rebate for all commercial VSP Eye Exams this year - with $15 extended through June of 2026, and $10 thru the end of next year! Visit www.pecaaexamrebate.com now!** 

Daniel speaks with the CEO of The Vision Council, Ashley Mills, about the final Vision Expo West, taking  place in Las Vegas, September 17-20, 2025.      https://west.visionexpo.com/  

Ep. 185: It's a big moment for Bloom, so Greg and I are sharing the behind-the-scenes story of Bloom Pop—our brand-new soda! From unveiling it at Expo West to the inspiration behind our favorite flavor (hi, Shirley Temple!), we're breaking down what this moment means to us as partners in business and life. We also answer your Qs about burnout, imposter syndrome, and how I'm navigating IVF while slowing down professionally. This one's part business update, part life chat, and part real talk about shifting priorities and staying grounded through change. If you've ever chased a big dream while juggling real life—this one's for you. Leave Me a Message - click here! For Mari's Instagram click here! For Pursuit of Wellness Podcast's Instagram click here! For Mari's Newsletter click here! For Greg's Instagram click here! Sponsored By: Experience radiant skin with BON CHARGE's Red Light Face Mask. Save 15% at boncharge.com with code PURSUIT. Control body odor anywhere with @lumedeodorant—the #1 whole body deodorant. Get 15% off with code PURSUIT at LumeDeodorant.com! #lumepod Check out SKIMS best intimates including the Fits Everybody Collection & more at skims.com/pow #skimspartner  Show Links: Bloom Sparkling Energy is our clean, better-for-you energy drink—zero sugar, natural caffeine, prebiotics & lychee for focus without the crash. Get delicious gut health in a scoop with Bloom Greens, packed with 30+ superfoods to support digestion, reduce bloat & boost energy. Support gut health, immunity & glowing skin with Bloom Colostrum—our 3-in-1 blend of colostrum, collagen peptides & probiotics. Topics Discussed 00:00:09 Welcome 00:00:31 Expo West 00:02:20 Bloom Pop 00:05:43 Too many prebiotic sodas? 00:10:04 Middle and high schoolers drinking Bloom energy drinks 00:11:34 Dessert for breakfast in Gloucester 00:16:18 Struggling with new phase in life  00:21:16 Boundaries with emails and texts 00:24:22 Imposter syndrome 00:29:38 Relocating for partner 00:31:56 Social media approach in today's landscape 00:35:09 Best exercise routine recommendation 00:36:27 Navigating marriage with busy lifestyles

Episode 2619 - Vinnie Tortorich and Anna Vocino chat about living in Los Angeles, reducing screen time, and Anna shares her adventures at Food Expo West. https://vinnietortorich.com/2025/03/adventures-at-food-expo-west-episode-2619 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS YOU CAN WATCH ALL THE PODCAST EPISODES ON YOUTUBE - Adventures at Food Expo West You get a little lesson on Eddie Van Halen, other celebrities, and living in Los Angeles. (3:00) Vinnie has been checking the amount of screen time on his phone and is trying to reduce the time he is “leashed” to the phone. (18:00) Test yourself to see how long you are on your phone. Hint: being on a phone 7 hours a day is not normal. Vinnie has noticed he has been more present while doing other activities. Expo West is huge, and is *supposed* to focus on natural foods; however, there are a lot of keto-type products. (29:00) Anna shares some of the challenges getting to Food Expo West. Anna created her sauces bc she wanted to see clean ingredients on the shelves. She talks about the various types of products that she saw. High protein products are a big callout on packaging. (36:00) They discuss a few other products and their experience with them.. More News If you are interested in the NSNG® VIP group, register here! Don't forget to check out Serena Scott Thomas on Days Of Our Lives on the Peacock channel.  “Dirty Keto” is available on Amazon! You can purchase or rent it . Make sure you watch, rate, and review it! Eat Happy Italian, Anna's next cookbook is available!  You can go to You can order it from . Anna's recipes are in her cookbooks, website, and Substack–they will spice up your day! There's a new NSNG® Foods promo code you can use! The promo code ONLY works on the NSNG® Foods website, NOT on Amazon. https://nsngfoods.com/ [the_ad id="20253"] PURCHASE  DIRTY KETO (2024) The documentary launched in August 2024! Order it TODAY! This is Vinnie's fourth documentary in just over five years. Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: Then, please share my fact-based, health-focused documentary series with your friends and family. Additionally, the more views, the better it ranks, so please watch it again with a new friend! REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! PURCHASE BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE (2022) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! FAT: A DOCUMENTARY 2 (2021) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: FAT: A DOCUMENTARY (2019) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: