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Forget Hollywood. For actor and investor Ryan Phillippe, the real drama is unfolding in the beverage aisle. Speaking from BevNET Live L.A. 2025, Ryan – attending alongside Pretty Tasty co-founder Scarlett Leung – explains why functional beverages, credible health benefits, and shelf-grabbing design are the factors that separate forgettable brands from the next breakout hit. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Ryan Phillippe – Ryan recounts attending his first beverage-focused event, sharing what sparked his interest in the industry and his particular attraction to emerging categories. He highlights the value of clear, simple storytelling, vision-driven founders, and strong marketing, drawing parallels between the beverage space and Hollywood. Ryan also reflects on his current investments and industry relationships, expressing a genuine desire to learn, build connections, and make thoughtful decisions moving forward. He closes by briefly hinting at the potential for a sequel to one of his most beloved films. Brands in this episode: Poppi, Mamitas, Chlorophyll Water, Pretty Tasty
Your audience is the MOST receptive to changes right now. The tolerance for change is higher because people are reflecting on how they want to evolve too. Everyone's looking for something fresh to engage with in the new year, and now is your chance to deliver on that. Let's make sure you know how to communicate your ability to help them transform! People don't just buy new strategies in January, they want new identities. So how are we going to refine and elevate your message to reflect the 5 figure clients you want? I feel like the real risk of not taking the time to reinvent yourself during this season is you blend into the, same goal, same post crowd. Start with an identity audit. Who were you last year? How were you showing up? How do you hope to see that change? Why do you want that to change? Then, what are the messaging replacements you want to make? Don't just try to add more to your plate, think about what you can replace to elevate your brand. Instead of 'what else should I say?' ask yourself 'what am I no longer available for?' Reinvention doesn't fail because it's wrong, it fails because it's incomplete. It's a full adjustment, not just one little tweak. When you reinvent yourself holistically, you start attracting more aligned people in your audience, you attract faster decision makers because it's just a lot more clear on who you're actually for. Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Triple your audience, demand and sales with a 90-day marketing reinvention designed to position you as the #1 choice in your industry and change the way you show up online. Apply for The Industry's Choice https://highflierpowerhouse.com/industrys-choice Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer
She went from selling hydration drinks out of the trunk of her car to building a $20M brand, without outside investors, industry experience or playing by the rules. In this episode, Jesslyn Rollins, the CEO of Biolyte, reveals how grassroots hustle, relentless sampling, and a medical-grade "IV in a bottle" helped her break into one of the most competitive categories in beverages, and why the brand is now ready to make its boldest move yet. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Jesslyn Rollins, CEO, Biolyte – At BevNET Live L.A. 2025, Jesslyn recounted Biolyte's origins in 2016, when her father developed a medical-grade rehydration formula and she began selling it out of her car to high school athletic programs. She details how success with local football teams led to Biolyte's big break into Kroger's natural store sections, where cold placement and in-store sampling fueled rapid growth. Jesslyn talks about how Biolyte has expanded across regions, launched a rebrand, secured national powder-pack distribution in Walgreens and CVS, and positioned itself as a premium rapid rehydration sports drink with significantly higher electrolytes than legacy brands. She emphasizes the importance of consumer trust, data-driven storytelling, and evolving the brand's message beyond niche use cases like athletics or illness to everyday wellness. Despite intense competition, operational challenges, and no outside investment, she stays motivated by customer testimonials and a clear mission, noting that Biolyte is now at an inflection point where incremental growth isn't enough and bold strategic change is needed to become "the rehydration drink for the next generation." Brands in this episode: Biolyte, Gatorade, Powerade, 7UP, Poppi, BodyArmor
Everyone is following the same content advice and it's creating a bottleneck in most people's marketing funnels. So how can you actually find what works best for you and your brand? We're seeing templated styles, over-education and under-positioning, and viral coaching loops. Let's break out of that cycle! Your marketing strategy doesn't need to be held at the whim of the algorithm. Like, sure, you need to get seen. But what is happening AFTER you get seen? Are you just going viral and going back into oblivion? We need to nail down your positional marketing to get you chosen over and over again by people that are going deeper into your funnel. You might not have a content problem, you might have an identity problem. Can people immediately point out your style? Think of your favorite people online. You can likely pick their posts out of a line up. Can your audience say the same for you? If not, this episode is for you. Demand is not just about posting more, it's about directing your audience's perception of you. If you want them to see you as the highest ticket, more premiere option, how can you shape your presence to convey that message? It's likely NOT a case for simply posting more. Your audience has a problem that they're actively searching for helping solving right now. Your marketing, at it's core, needs to make it clear to them that you are the only logical solution to their problem. Tune in to find out how. Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Triple your audience, demand and sales with a 90-day marketing reinvention designed to position you as the #1 choice in your industry and change the way you show up online. Apply for The Industry's Choice https://highflierpowerhouse.com/industrys-choice Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer
Before you hit play, here's the headline — arguably the biggest in CPG in 2025, and one you already know: PepsiCo acquired better-for-you soda brand Poppi for nearly $2 billion. What follows is a replay of a 2023 Taste Radio interview with founders Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, recorded back when Poppi was still firmly in disruptor mode — scaling fast, breaking rules, and taking direct aim at Big Soda. In the conversation, the Ellsworths trace Poppi's evolution from a scrappy gut-health drink into a modern soda brand built for culture, not compromise. They discuss launching amid the chaos of COVID, betting early on TikTok, and choosing bold cans and great taste over "health-halo" minimalism. The entrepreneurs also share a rare, candid take on founder ego — why they handed the CEO reins to an experienced operator, how they professionalized early, and what it really takes to scale from zero to thousands of doors without losing the magic. Listen closely and you'll hear the blueprint for the PepsiCo deal years before it happened: a brand that tastes great, moves at the speed of culture, wins both online and in-store, and isn't afraid to call itself soda again. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Allison & Stephen Ellsworth, Co-Founders, Poppi – The Ellsworths reflect on Poppi's seven-year journey, from its origins as Mother Beverage to its reinvention as a colorful, prebiotic soda positioned to challenge legacy soda brands. They discuss relocating from Dallas to Austin to tap into a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem, balancing hypergrowth with family life, and navigating the operational challenges of scaling during the pandemic. The founders also explain their emphasis on professionalizing the business, including their decision to bring in seasoned operator Chris Hall as CEO and redefine their own roles, prioritizing long-term scale over founder ego while maintaining creative control and brand vision. The interview also highlights Poppi's digital-first growth engine, particularly its early and unconventional embrace of TikTok, which helped the brand build massive organic reach, cultural relevance, a deeply engaged community and fueled explosive trial across Amazon and DTC before accelerating Poppi's expansion into retail. Consumer insights reinforced the brand's direction: taste was the number-one driver of trial and repeat, enabling Poppi to confidently reclaim the word "soda" and position itself as fun, nostalgic, and culturally current – while quietly delivering functional benefits like prebiotics and low sugar. Brands in this episode: Poppi, vitaminwater, Bai, BodyArmor
Go behind the scenes of one of today's hottest brands with Allison Ellsworth, founder and Lead Creative at poppi. After a memorable Shark Tank appearance, poppi exploded into the cultural zeitgeist – going viral on TikTok, getting shout-outs from celebrities, and scaling from startup to $500 million in just four years. In this episode, Allison shares how to build a brand that moves fast, disrupts in all the right ways, and knows exactly how to stay culturally relevant. You'll also learn: What a “black ops budget” is – and why you need one! The importance of building a brand, not just selling a product What it's really like to pitch on Shark Tank Channel-by-channel social media tips (one might make you squirm) Take your learning further. Get proven leadership advice from these (free!) resources: The How Leaders Lead App: A vast library of 90-second leadership lessons to stay sharp on the go Daily Insight Emails: One small (but powerful!) leadership principle to focus on each day Whichever you choose, you can be sure you'll get the trusted leadership advice you need to advance your career, develop your team, and grow your business.
If you've been feeling like the marketing world is moving at lightning speed, you're not alone. So much has changed since I first launched my rebrand experience. Back then, it was all about helping people get their branding and visuals up to speed. But now? The game has totally shifted, and I'm excited to share what's actually working in today's market PLUS: a new offer! Just having a pretty website or some new photos isn't enough anymore. Trust me, I've seen so many clients come in thinking a visual refresh would solve everything, but the real magic happens when you pair those visuals with a solid marketing strategy. My clients have gotten incredible results, not just by looking the part, but by really owning their message and showing up differently. One thing I've noticed is that success comes down to 3 big things: how people see you, the influence you have, and the demand you create. I break down what each of those actually means, and why they matter so much if you want to stand out (and sell out) in your niche. Plus, I'm also super excited to introduce my newest offer, the Industry's Choice! The Industry's Choice is a 90-day marketing reinvention for entrepreneurs who are ready to shake things up and finally see their brand work for them. I walk you through exactly what's included, from nailing your new positioning and content strategy to building a website that actually converts. My goal is to make sure you walk away with the clarity and confidence to show up as the only option in your space. So if you're thinking about your own marketing goals for the year ahead, this episode is for you. I want you to feel inspired to look at what's working, what's not, and how you can reinvent your approach. Enrollment for the Industry's Choice opens soon, and I'd love to help you make your brand the one everyone's talking about. Let's do this together! Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Triple your audience, demand and sales with a 90-day marketing reinvention designed to position you as the #1 choice in your industry and change the way you show up online. Apply for The Industry's Choice https://highflierpowerhouse.com/industrys-choice Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer
Today's episode is a fireside chat with Fiserv in Las Vegas, we break down the real difference between brand and sales — and why marketing is actually harder than selling. We talk about the rise of the interest media era, and the mistakes big brands keep making. Allison Ellsworth shares the story of how she started Poppi, and we dig into why no amount of marketing works without a great product. If you're building a brand or business, this conversation will change how you think about content, attention, and growth.
In this week's episode, we're re-airing one of our top episodes with Allison Ellsworth, the co-founder of Poppi, a better for you soda brand that is revolutionizing the next generation. Allison always knew she wanted to be an entrepreneur, but her journey began in the oil and gas industry, where she spent years on the road building a successful career. During this time, she struggled with bloating and other gut health issues, inspiring her to take charge of her wellness. She adopted a clean diet, started working out, and discovered apple cider vinegar's benefits. However, she wasn't a fan of its taste and sought a way to make it more enjoyable.Allison created an apple cider vinegar-based soda, "Mother Beverage" in her kitchen and quit her day job—nearly going broke while selling it at farmers' markets. After an appearance on Shark Tank while nine months pregnant and a complete product rebrand, the prebiotic soda became "Poppi," the viral, #1 selling soda on Amazon with over 2 billion TikTok views and the most-watched Super Bowl ad this year.In this week's episode, Allison shares her journey of leaving a stable career to start her own business—without any prior experience. She reveals how she landed Whole Foods distribution with no connections and took a chance on Shark Tank to secure funding. Allison breaks down why they decided to rebrand Poppi, how they executed a successful relaunch during the pandemic, the social media strategies that helped them grow awareness and build a loyal community, and so much more.In this episode, we'll talk to Allison about:* Saying "yes" and figuring things out. [03:32]* Allison's career journey and how it shaped her. [04:52]* Passion is key to entrepreneurial success. [07:32]* Allison's health journey inspired Poppi. [09:22]* Self-funding, entering Whole Foods, and joining Shark Tank. [14:16]* Pivoting to work on Poppi full-time. [15:21]* Preparing for Shark Tank while pregnant. [18:49]* Poppi's rebranding as a strategy for growth. [23:07]* Persistence and adaptability in entrepreneurship. [25:25]* Taste is crucial in the beverage industry. [27:55]* Having over 2 billion TikTok views. [30:36]* Allison's first viral TikTok video. [32:31]* Approachable content creation process. [36:25]* Prioritize mental health and learn to say "no." [42:24]* Allison's experience bringing in a CEO. [44:47]* Learnings from rapid business growth. [47:52]* Managing burnout by prioritizing self-care. [50:29]* Future plans for Poppi. [52:41]* Let go of “should haves” and focus on your priorities. [53:57]This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Website: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Allison:* Website: https://drinkpoppi.com/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkpoppi/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allisonellsworth/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The hosts recap a whirlwind week of back-to-back events in L.A., celebrating standout competitions, emerging brands, and generous mentorship from seasoned founders at Nosh Live and BevNET Live. From Projo's big win in the New Beverage Showdown to celebrity cameos by Ryan Phillippe and Khloé Kardashian, the energy never let up. Show notes: 0:25: A Fickle Judge. Generous Sharks. Competition BTS. Mochi Magic. A "Dirty" Brand. – The hosts reflect on the high level of professionalism from their teams, enthusiastic attendee feedback, and the inspiring presence of seasoned founders who generously mentored early-stage entrepreneurs. They highlight BevNET's New Beverage Showdown and its winner protein coffee brand Projo, and the Nosh Pitch Slam, won by BFY gummy brand Rotten Candy. The team also celebrates memorable founder presentations, global flavors, and emerging brands across food and beverage. Ray recalls celebrity moments that added extra buzz, from Ryan Phillippe's surprise appearance as a beverage enthusiast to Khloé Kardashian sampling products backstage. He also praises an upstart hangover-recovery brand and a Portland-based RTD cocktail company, and a new line of cinnamon drinks. Brands in this episode: Dirty Saint, mōcean, Stursi, Projo*, NO CAP!, TIZZ, Rhinestone, Oh So Easy!, Djablo Sauce, Keya's Snacks, Xinca Foods, Shooka Sauce, Rotten, Poppi, Khloud, Sweety, Fly By Jing, Nixie, Late July, Fishwife, Pretty Tasty, Biolyte, Straightaway Cocktails
Andrea Hernández is the founder and author of Snaxshot, one of the most influential newsletters in food and beverage. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Andrea talk about where CPG is now, hypebeast grocery, colostrum snacks, suggestions for founders, and what to look out for in 2026.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support In The Sauce by becoming a member!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Heading into the New Year, it's time to approach your marketing with a fresh set of eyes. And that doesn't have to mean falling for trends that are all hype with no real returns! Today, I'm walking through the marketing trends that are actually worth your time to take into 2026. Marketing strategies are practically plagued with hype. So what actually works and what should you spend less energy on in the coming year. Here are some trends that I think are more hyped than they're worth: #1: Posting more often Quantity can only get you so far. If you're spending more energy churning out more content instead of deciding how you want to be intention to show up in a way that inspires people to actively support you, it's not energy well spent. #2: Finding better hooks Hooks are tools, not strategies. Don't get me wrong, I love a good hook! But the content has to be meaningful throughout the piece for the hook to mean anything. #3: Trending formats Hopping onto trends online might make for a random viral moment here and there. But it doesn't differentiate your brand from the rest. Finding ways to incorporate a signature style, no matter what kind of content you do, is more important than trend chasing. #4: AI content strategists I've had enough with people telling Chatgpt to create a content plan for them. You need to create a foundational piece of content and then use AI as a content evaluator, not a strategist. #5: Being on all platforms Being on multiple platforms is a good idea if you have a plan, but simply deciding to be active on every platform to increase your chances will likely just end in fragmentation. So what are the alternative? You'll have to tune into the episode for the full scoop, but here are the top marketing trends I see coming in 2026: #1: Founder focused marketing #2: Becoming the celebrity of your niche #3: Micro community marketing #4: The basic breakthrough Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer Triple your audience, demand and sales with a 90-day marketing reinvention designed to position you as the #1 choice in your industry and change the way you show up online. Apply for The Industry's Choice https://highflierpowerhouse.com/industrys-choice
Modern soda isn't a trend — it's one of the fastest-growing segments in beverage. Now a $1.8B U.S. category, up 83% YOY, according to Circana, modern soda is redefining the carbonated space with functional benefits, low sugar, and health-forward positioning.Two brands were instrumental in creating this market: OLIPOP and Poppi. Together, they introduced consumers to gut-health sodas long before the category had a name — and they helped transform what was once a stagnant soft drink landscape into one of the hottest growth stories in CPG.Today, OLIPOP stands as the category's largest independent player, following Poppi's 2025 acquisition by PepsiCo for roughly $1.95B. OLIPOP is now sold in 50,000+ doors, staffed with 200+ employees, and approaching a $2B valuation. In this episode, OLIPOP Co-Founder, CEO and Formulator Ben Goodwin breaks down how OLIPOP carved out its own lane with a deeper scientific foundation and a product-first ethos that helped propel the entire modern soda movement.
On this week's Modern Retail Podcast, senior reporters Melissa Daniels and Gabriela Barkho kick things off with a look at the record-setting use of buy now, pay later payments over Black Friday weekend. The duo also gets into the holiday spirit by talking about the widespread impact of seasonal flavors. This year's big trend? All things cranberry. Later on in the episode, Barkho sits down with Kelly Landrieu, principal planner of local & emerging brands at Whole Foods Market, who heads up its Local & Emerging Accelerator Program. In the conversation, Landrieu outlines the program's role in bringing the buzziest young brands to Whole Foods' shelves, which in the past has included brands like Poppi and Little Sesame. They also discuss: The dos and don'ts of startups successfully getting into Whole Foods Market. Common mistakes smaller brands make when trying to grow in a national chain. When to consider hot trends, like better-for-you soda and high-protein snacks versus a product's potential longevity.
Amber Venz Box of LTK and Jo Cronk of Whalar explore how influencers are redefining content, commerce and the future of the creator economy. Then, Poppi co-founder Allison Ellsworth and Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams and Floura founder Jeni Britton share their entrepreneurial paths and how they've disrupted the food industry. Conversations recorded on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Event sponsored by Capital One.
Content creation is now a non-negotiable marketing skill that every CEO needs to adapt to. So how do you actually grow your audience without feeling like you're cosplaying an influencer instead of being a business owner? We have to start seeing marketing and content creation as 50% of the business. It's literally the main way that most CEOs are growing their businesses these days. So there are 3 main types of posts that I want to expand on today: Big viral moments (brand awareness and brand reach) Mini viral moments (reaching adjacent communities) Micro-viral moments (deepening current communities) Half the time, when we think of content that is growth oriented, we're trying to hit all three areas. We want it to go mega viral, reach relevant adjacent communities, and deepen our current community all at the same time. This thing is, that's just not how things typically work. So many people are still looking at content on a binary scale. Like, you're either a content creator or a business owner. But backing yourself into a corner where you're only identifying with one archetype actually does have it's cons. Whether you're a creator, an influencer, an online business owner, or a thought leader, their are pros and cons to each approach. What is the archetype that we wanna co-create in order for you to actually work towards growing your audience in 2026? Personally, I've found the "founder archetype" to be a really beneficial framework to create a nice balance. I'm giving you the framework to take all of the pros from the previous archetypes and filter out the cons as a founder. Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Increase your authority, attract elevated leads, and drive more sales with a 90-day marketing reinvention designed to change the way you show up online. Apply for The Industry's Choice https://highflierpowerhouse.com/industrys-choice Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer
Ballaststoffe sind „old but gold“ – und erleben mit dem Fibermaxxing Trend ein riesiges Comeback. In dieser Episode erfährst du, welche Ballaststoffe wirklich wirken, wie sie Blutzucker, Darmgesundheit, Entzündungen und dein Longevity-Potenzial beeinflussen – und ob Poppi, Super Pop & Fizi wirklich sinnvoll sind.
Geoff, Gavin and Andrew talk about most useless fact, xXx, Vin Diesel, last words, paintball, Bingo, good bad dog movies, The Dog Who Saved Christmas, Jones Crayola, The Little Things, Poppi, biotics, fruit eating, apple emoji, annoying your parents, multiverse, The Elixir, better movies, copper, fajitas, weird tech, the state of your pikachu, Pokemon, trading, Geoff cards, collectibles, a claw machine, Disco Fever, and Vancouver Goldeneyes. Sponsored by Factor. Thanks Factor! Go to FACTORMEALS.com/REGULATION50OFF and use code REGULATION50OFF to get 50% off your first box plus Free Breakfast for 1 Year. Offer only valid for new Factor customers with code and qualifying auto-renewing subscription purchase. Support us directly at https://www.patreon.com/TheRegulationPod Stay up to date, get exclusive supplemental content, and connect with other Regulation Listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Content vulnerability hangover is real, and it's holding back countless entrepenuers from building authentic brands that truly connect. If you've ever felt exposed after sharing something personal, or found yourself stuck in a cycle of overthinking and perfectionism, you're not alone. This episode dives deep into the emotional side of content creation, offering a roadmap for sharing your story in a way that feels both safe and strategic. We'll explore the difference between connection stories and credibility stories, and why both are essential for a brand that resonates. You'll learn how to open up without oversharing, and how to avoid the pitfalls of turning your content into a diary or trauma dump. Instead, discover how to make your experiences relevant to your audience and your business, so every story you share serves a purpose. Setting boundaries around vulnerability is key, and we'll talk about practical ways to protect your energy while still showing up authentically. From journaling prompts to reflection exercises, you'll get actionable tools to help you decide what to share, when to share it, and how to keep your content aligned with your values. In today's episode, we're chatting about: The difference between connection and credibility stories Sharing personal experiences without oversharing Making your story relevant to your audience and business Setting boundaries for safe, sustainable vulnerability Exercises to uncover and shape your brand-defining stories Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer Get the photoshoot, website, and content strategy you need to increase your business revenue and reputation. Apply for The Rebrand Experience https://highflierpowerhouse.com/rebrand-experience
Prebiotic cola, plant-based (and AI-inspired?) pulled chicken and protein-packed marshmallows. The hosts crack open Pepsi's new prebiotic cola and discuss whether a stevia-sweetened "functional" soda can win over classic cola fans. They also dig into Just Meat's big win at Walmart and what it says about the future of meat analogs, and why protein marshmallows might actually work in your next s'more. Show notes: 0:25: Rotten Roaches. The BevNET Bowls. Cloying & Fibrous. Who's Eating This Stuff? S'More, Please. – Jacqui explains why there is a bright red "biohazard" bag on her desk and the hosts joke about modern marketing tactics. They pivot to a preview of the upcoming NOSH Live, BevNET Live and Brewbound Live events, highlighting opportunities for founders to meet retailers, investors, and strategic partners. They sample PepsiCo's newly launched Pepsi Prebiotic – a lower-calorie, stevia-sweetened soda that comes in classic cola and cherry vanilla flavors – and opine on the minimalist white cans and whether Pepsi has clearly communicated the benefits. The hosts then discuss JUST Meat's newly launched plant-based pulled chicken, which is now available in four flavors at 3,000 Walmart stores, which sparks a debate about whether mainstream shoppers truly want meat analogs, and how clean-label concerns are shaping the category. Shifting gears, Ray highlights news that BeatBox Beverages – the colorful, party-forward, wine-based cocktail brand – is rumored to be an acquisition target by AB InBev in a deal reportedly worth around $700 million. Ray introduces Primal Sweets' protein marshmallows, which contain 25 grams of protein per bag and no sugar, and Albero D'oro cocktail cherries, before Jacqui presents Flour + Water's artisanal pasta, and Mike praises Hiyo's new pineapple coconut "social tonic." Brands in this episode: Rotten Candy, Oh So Easy, Keya's, Oddball, Pepsi, Poppi, Nixie, Just Meat, Beyond Meat, BeatBox, Primal Sweets, Flour + Water, Albero D'oro, Hiyo, Poppi
Brand collaborations are exploding, and they're becoming one of the most effective growth levers in CPG. In this episode, the team breaks down why co-branded products are becoming a core strategy for food and beverage brands, what separates meaningful partnerships from gimmicks, and how leaders like Grillo's, Fly By Jing, Graza, and Liquid Death are using them to drive awareness, trial, and category expansion. Show notes: 0:25: Playoff Beards. Popping In. A Secret Guest. Smokes To Snacks. Collab Work. Healthy, Hot & High. – The episode opens with playful banter about facial hair before previewing upcoming BevNET Live, Nosh Live, and Brewbound Live in L.A. next month. Ray highlights the return of Poppi co-founders Allison and Stephen Ellsworth to the BevNET Live stage to discuss building the modern soda category and notes Allison's recent appearance as a guest shark on "Shark Tank," including her investment in Freestyle Snacks. The hosts also spotlight upcoming programming such as CVS Health's Lauren Castro at NOSH Live, a still-secret Nosh Live guest and also urge founders to nab remaining Elevator Talk, and One-to-One meeting slots. They pivot to brand collaborations, citing Grillo's Pickles' new Zippo tie-in and its growing list of partners, as well as prolific collaborators like Mike's Hot Honey and Graza. The hosts offer advice on considerations for partnerships and co-branded products and what makes for a successful collaboration. John praises Lentiful's Thanksgiving Feast instant lentil cup, Mike is hot about Blobs' new spicy mango-guava flavor and everyone has their say about Rind's recently released raspberry-almond granola squares. Jacqui introduces a "drink your skincare" energy beverage and Mike samples a THC-infused "Soda Pot." Ray reminds listeners that Thanksgiving week gets chaotic, so those planning to attend December's BevNET Live, NOSH Live, or Brewbound Live should finalize registration soon to avoid missing out – and the inevitable post-event FOMO. Brands in this episode: Poppi, Freestyle Snacks, Grillo's, Graza, Little Spoon, Firehook, Ithaca, Alec's, Rind, Mike Hot Honey Grillo's, Hippies, Ithaca, Sonic, V8, Boulder Canyon, Aura Bora, Claussens, Fly By Jing, Daily Crunch, Lundberg Rice, Fishwife, Little Sesame, Keystone, Huer, Frank's Red Hot, Lentiful, Blobs, Huxley, Tropicana, Rind, Skinergy, Clrty! Soda Pot, Mockly
You need to know what it takes to run a campaign that actually stands out in 2026. If you've ever felt like your launches are getting lost in the noise, or you're stuck recycling the same old tactics with "meh" results, this episode is for you. I'm breaking down the shifts I've seen in the world of launches, and what you need to know if you want your next campaign to feel fresh, exclusive, and binge-worthy. These are the frameworks and creative ideas I use with powerhouse brands every day. We'll talk about why attention is harder to earn now, how audiences are getting savvier, and what it really takes to create a campaign that people can't stop talking about. We'll chat about what's working right now, how to tap into cultural moments, and why subtle selling is the new superpower for founders who want to sell without feeling salesy. I'll walk you through the 7 things every campaign needs, plus the trends I'm seeing that you can start using ASAP. You'll hear real examples from brands that are breaking through the noise, and I'll share the mistakes I see most often (so you can avoid them). If you're tired of the same old strategies and want to feel excited (and confident!) about your next launch, you're in the right place. Whether you're running your first campaign or looking to outperform your last one, you'll walk away with actionable ideas and a fresh perspective on what's possible for your brand. In this episode, we're chatting about: The 7 must-haves for every campaign in 2026 How to create those "can't-miss" moments for your audience The real deal on subtle selling (hint: it's not about being mysterious) Fresh trends in campaign visuals, product display, and multi-format drops Building your "celebrity confidence" as a founder and brand leader Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer Get the photoshoot, website, and content strategy you need to increase your business revenue and reputation. Apply for The Rebrand Experience https://highflierpowerhouse.com/rebrand-experience
It's time to sit down and make a plan for 2026! You might be thinking, "wow, this feels really early?" But truthfully, I think the best way to set yourself up for failure is to wait until the last moment to look ahead. I did this entire process during a travel day filled with delays. I promise, it's not as intense as it sounds! First, I want to reflect on the year you just had. What was your best month? What about your worst? When did you feel like your creative energy was flowing and how was that reflected in your revenue? What were your goals this year? Did you achieve them? After we've taken the time to assess the year that's coming to a close, we can take an honest look at the year ahead. The best method I've found for yearly planning is to start with a big thing and reverse engineer. Set a revenue goal, even if making more money this year is not your main goal. Even if your want to make the exact same amount next year, you should set the goal to repeat the income differently. This way, you're not shutting down your creativitity in proportion to your monetary goals. Here's the thing: we want our goals to be data-driven, not vibe based. You should be able to look back at old campaigns and pinpoint what worked and what didn't. This will literally be reflected in the numbers! You know the money you need to make. You may not know the exact how that will get you there, but that's why we reverse engineeer from that number. Once you have those numbers in place, you can start outlining your campaigns. Here's the thing: this is just an outline! Timelines can change. But having a rough idea will give you the foresight to manage your energy and give yourself the necessary time to plan, energize and execute! Connect with me: Website Join our email list! Instagram Pinterest Become the celebrity of your niche and learn how to turn your marketing into a campaign that actually sells out. In the Campaign Crash Course™, you'll learn how to build anticipation and sell your offers with the same strategy behind brands like SKIMS, Poppi, and Rhode — all in just 60 minutes. https://highflierpowerhouse.com/course Get creative support to turn your content into sales before, during and after your launches. From content classes to learn new campaign marketing skills, to custom designed assets completely done for you, we've thought of it all inside Sales Studio. Join today: https://highflierpowerhouse.com/retainer Get the photoshoot, website, and content strategy you need to increase your business revenue and reputation. Apply for The Rebrand Experience https://highflierpowerhouse.com/rebrand-experience
Beverage Digest Editor & Publisher Duane Stanford and industry expert John Sicher are joined by Tim Harms, CEO of fountain soft drink deal negotiator Enliven, to break down the mystery behind exclusive beverage supply deals at restaurants. How are these deals constructed? How do brand portfolios influence decision making? They also explore what drives consumers in the fountain and food service channel: customization, modern beverages like Poppi, digital ordering, and more.Text us thoughts, questions, or topic suggestions.
Today we're not sponsored and discover that the more we learn the less we think. We begin with low expectations about these 'functional' 'biotic' sodas and debate what the going rate is for our show because we're the real deal. No artificial sweetners here! As we drinks these fads in a can and commune with St Elsewhere and St Elmo, we realize that we're full of bacteria but we can still bring sexy back. Episode 162: Orange SodaEpisode 26: SodaEpisode 265: Flavored Sparkling WaterEpisode 43: Sparkling Beverages Le Sud by Rebekah PepplerThe Chinese Way by Betty LiuRepertoire by Jessica BattilanaMatthew's Now but Wow - Pokerface Season 2 Support Spilled Milk Podcast!Molly's SubstackMatthew's Bands: Early to the Airport and Twilight DinersProducer Abby's WebsiteListen to our spinoff show Dire DesiresJoin our reddit Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Every founder dreams of breaking the rules. Few do it with such quiet confidence as Oliver Dixon, the co-founder of better-for-you soda brand Something & Nothing. In this episode, Olly tells the story of how a creative experiment in a London bar became a category-disrupting soda brand now expanding rapidly across the U.S. He explains how his design sensibility and refusal to compromise on flavor helped shape a brand that feels both modern and timeless. Something & Nothing's complex, mid-calorie sodas are inspired by travel and crafted with natural juices, not sweeteners. The brand's growth has been driven by thoughtful distribution in cafes, hotels, and cultural spaces. Earlier this year, Something & Nothing entered 260 Whole Foods stores in the U.S. From surviving early missteps (like an ambitious, but ill-fated alcohol launch) to building credibility through selective distribution and cultural partnerships, Olly shares how discipline, taste, and integrity can scale just as powerfully as hype. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Oliver Dixon, Co-Founder, Something & Nothing – Olly shares how his background in culture, design, and hospitality shaped the brand's identity, and how the sodas were created to fill a gap in the market for flavorful, adult non-alcoholic beverages. He explains the origins of the name "Something & Nothing," and inspiration for soda flavors. Olly talks about the impact of intentional and focused distribution in foodservice retailers and discusses the company's expansion into the U.S., emphasizing that organic word-of-mouth and placement in trusted venues are their strongest marketing tools. He also reflects on lessons learned from a failed foray into alcoholic spritzes, and why the company prioritizes flavor, authenticity, and long-term brand value over functional ingredients and trends. Olly highlights the brand's "Not Pop" campaign, launched in Chicago, and why maintaining a deliberate, design-led approach is key to its potential as a global brand. Brands in this episode: Something & Nothing, Fanta, Poppi, Olipop
Allison Ellsworth – Founder of PoppiAllison Ellsworth is an American entrepreneur and the co-founder of Poppi, the fast-growing prebiotic soda brand that's redefining the beverage industry.https://drinkpoppi.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-misogi-method-experience-a-new-comfort-zone--2910681/support.
Almost two decades after 50 Cent reportedly made around $100 million from the Coca-Cola and Vitaminwater M&A transaction, his “equity instead of traditional endorsement fees” deal structure has become commonplace within today's influencer partnerships involving emerging CPG brands. But one of the greatest success stories in recent years involves the popular influencer Alix Earle and modern soda brand Poppi. And though Alix Earle declined to share the size of her stake, her father/manager confirmed that his daughter chose to work with Poppi on an equity basis (along with investing some of her own capital). Moreover, that equity was converted “at a pretty significant gain” in March 2025 when PepsiCo announced its agreement to acquire Poppi for $1.95 billion. However, and maybe providing an even more lucrative “woulda coulda shoulda” example…that same M&A transaction included Josh Richards, another popular internet personality who stated a handful of years ago that he wanted to be the “first influencer billionaire.” Josh Richards participated in the Poppi August 2021 fundraising round (a few years before Alix Earle) but also signed a “marketing services for equity” type contract in 2020. Though, Josh Richards didn't get paid out from it…and he's reportedly suing Poppi for an alleged breach of contract involving that unpaid portion of vested equity. All I know is Poppi better hope Dave Portnoy doesn't go all scorched earth on them…as he appears to be extremely protective of his former co-hosts on the BFFs podcast.
The hosts break down Recess' $30 million raise, pound shots of olive oil, and wonder if Ben Stiller's nostalgic soda brand can make it in middle America. Oh, and someone bottled a hot sauce wrapped in a real $100 bill. Show notes: 0:25: Take Your Best Shot. Deadlines, People. Pivot & Win. A Benny With Every Bottle. Ben's Beer. – The show opens with a sampling of Kosterina's new high-phenolic extra virgin olive oil shot, which has a spicier kick that some of the hosts realize. Ray reminds listeners that Oct. 31 is the deadline to submit nominations for BevNET, NOSH, and Brewbound's Best of 2025 Awards and is also the last day to submit applications for the upcoming edition of the New Beverage Showdown. The conversation turns to Recess' $30 million Series B funding round, and how the brand has successfully evolved from CBD-based drinks into a broader mood and relaxation brand. They highlight Burn Rate, a unique brand of hot sauces in which each bottle is wrapped in a real $100 bill. They discuss how the project doubles as a marketing stunt and a commentary on startup spending culture. They also feature Ginger Bee Tea, a honey-ginger blend inspired by a traditional Korean tea remedy, and sample Stiller's Soda, a new brand launched by actor and filmmaker Ben Stiller. White they praise the familiar, nostalgic taste of Stiller's Soda, they question whether the founder's celebrity backing will help it stand out in a competitive market. Melissa introduces Magic Spoon's new protein treats and Jacqui shares Alkaline Coffee Company, a new low-acid, mineral-treated cold brew, before Ray invites listeners to send in new product samples for tasting and to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts for a chance to receive a free Taste Radio T-shirt. Brands in this episode: Kosterina, Health-Ade, Liquid Death, Recoup, Poppi, Bai, Recess, C4, Trip, Taika, Burn Rate, Onima Pantry, Ginger Bee Tea, Dr. Brown, Stiller's Soda, Magic Spoon, Mezcla, Alkaline Coffee Co., High Tail, Wynk
The hosts unpack curated snack boxes featuring innovative products from emerging food and beverage brands – from sourdough bites and zaatar crackers to whiskey pecans and candied pistachios. They also share insights on how founders can save big and stand out at BevNET's upcoming events in L.A. Show notes: 0:25: Back Home, Back To L.A. Register, Attend, Win. Here And Now. Hot Dog Chips & Urban Shakes. – John Craven chats about his recent travels and highlights the memorable Taste Radio London meetup. The hosts discuss the upcoming BevNET Live, NOSH Live, and Brewbound Live events in December and encourage listeners to register early for discounted tickets and to take advantage of structured networking opportunities and one-on-one meetings with investors, retailers, and entrepreneurs. The hosts also promote the New Beverage Showdown competition, urging emerging beverage founders to apply before October 31 for a chance to showcase their brands to industry leaders. Later, they sample and discuss curated products from the online marketplace Here Here Market, highlighting brands including Unbothered Foods, Live Loud Foods, and Nat's Nuts while noting which might succeed in wider distribution. The team also reviews innovative products such as Urban Remedy's protein shakes and Maizly's corn milk, discussing alt-milk trends and sustainability, and Superlova!'s Dan Dan Sauce, which will be featured on an upcoming Elevator Talk episode. Finally, they invite nominations for the Best of 2025 Awards, recognizing excellence and innovation across the food, beverage, and beer industries. Brands in this episode: Unbothered Foods, Share Crackers, Live Loud Foods, All Together Now, Nat's Nuts, Inizio Italian Specialty Meats, Cellar Door Artisan Preserves, Local Style, Urban Remedy, Maizly, Supernova!, Health-Ade, Poppi, Liquid Death
When you think about PepsiCo…your brain either beelines to carbonated soft drinks and their flagship Pepsi brand or packaged foods and their significant market share across salty snack categories. But how about what I like to call the “three-headed categorical monster” of active nutrition? Or maybe it's time to expand my phrase slightly…especially after PepsiCo CEO stated last week within its third quarter earnings call that “fiber will be the next protein.” However, while PepsiCo leadership now talks wildly about “elevating its innovation agenda with core brands by capturing new occasions through added functional benefits,” categorical offerings outside hydration (so energy, protein, and fiber) were mostly strategic afterthoughts only a handful of years ago. Though, if your primary indicator for strategic change was looking for broad-based portfolio product innovation, you'd likely believe PepsiCo leadership was “all talk” in 2022 when expressing "optimism about the runway for growth within the active nutrition category." Outside of Gatorade deepening its “fuel solutions” for athletes and simultaneously broadening into more active lifestyles…PepsiCo could've just looked like another Big CPG player plagued with a mix of poor portfolio management, missed opportunities, and persistent share loss. In fact, you'd only understand where it was heading due to PepsiCo leadership leaving breadcrumb after breadcrumb throughout quarterly earnings statements and investment conference presentations regarding how the $200 billion market cap sized CPG conglomerate would transform its products to better reach shifting consumer preferences…as more moved closer towards this four-way intersection of taste, convenience, nutrition, and functionality. However, heading into 2025…when the business landscape seemed cloudier than ever, as massive “drivers of demand” like GLP-1 weight loss second-order effects became more pronounced and the MAHA movement gained political power, PepsiCo appeared to build further conviction surrounding its long-awaited strategic game plan. Suddenly, all those “nice if possible” innovation cycles focused on reimagining products quickly turned into a cascade of “must have” strategic actions. But my latest first principles thinking content will explore (through the lens of hydration, energy, protein, and fiber) why I believe PepsiCo contains one of the most fascinating “active nutrition” brand portfolios. And while PepsiCo is also making huge “nutrition” adjustments across its entire portfolio, I'll only sporadically mention the most relevant changes that are adjacent or congruent to adding “functionality” in products. I'll cover subject matter that ranges from Muscle Milk and Gatorade MAHA changes, the recent energy drinks deal that involved PepsiCo, CELSIUS, Alani Nu, and Rockstar Energy...along with how more grams of protein seem to be making its way into anything and everything that's quick, easy, and accessible (including Doritos, Quaker, Sun Chips, PopCorners, and Smartfood products). Also, I'll cover the two massive decisions (Poppi acquisition and Pepsi Prebiotic) that really showed how serious PepsiCo is about the “fiber will be the next protein” CEO statement. Lastly, PepsiCo is a world-class company with iconic brands, and its willingness to reinvent those brands (against the backdrop of shifting consumer habits and preferences) is venerable. If PepsiCo keeps this “disrupt ourselves” mindset going…I believe it's well-positioned to continue winning in this important “active nutrition” space.
Most people underestimate how much their friendships shape their happiness, relationships, and even their bank account. Lori and I are breaking down why making and maintaining great friendships is one of the most powerful success hacks there is and how to do it even when you're busy building a business, raising a family, and chasing big goals—including the simple habit that has kept my friendships strong (even across decades.) If you've ever felt lonely, overworked, or like you're doing it all alone, this episode will show you how to rebuild your circle and reignite your joy. HIGHLIGHTS How to find & build friendships that fuel your happiness, success, and longevity. Ways I've found friends I actually gel amazing with. How having meaningful friendships has strengthened our marriage. You don't have to be burnt out (what I learned from the founder of Poppi.) Our hack for bringing more joy into our life. How your friendships are impacting your joy, finances, romantic relationship, and more. Fun ways we've expanded our network and attracted bigger opportunities. RESOURCES Join the most supportive mastermind on the internet - the Mentor Collective Mastermind! Make More Sales in the next 90 days - GET THE BLUEPRINT HERE! Check out upcoming events + Masterminds: chrisharder.me Text DAILY to 310-421-0416 to get daily Money Mantras to boost your day. FOLLOW Chris: @chriswharder Lori: @loriharder Frello: @frello_app
Too often we treat friendship as something nice to have, but in this episode, Chris and I are reminding you that it's actually one of the most powerful tools for success, happiness, and longevity in both business and life. We're breaking down the real reasons why maintaining and intentionally creating new friendships will transform your energy, your marriage, and even your bank account. You'll hear stories from our own lives from the friendships that carried us through hard seasons, and learn why proximity to like-minded people is the ultimate hack for growth. If you've been feeling lonely on your entrepreneurial journey or craving more genuine connection, this episode will show you how to attract, nurture, and keep the kind of relationships that make every area of life better. Check out our Sponsors: SKIMS - I finally tried SKIMS and I get all the hype. Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at SKIMS.com and let them know we sent you in the dropdown after checkout. Brevo - the all-in-one marketing and CRM platform designed to help you connect with customers and grow your business. Get started for free today - go to www.brevo.com/happy Blinds.com - Blinds.com makes it easy to get the designer look without the showroom markups. Get an exclusive $50 off when you spend $500 or more with code EARN at checkout. Shopify - Try the ecommerce platform I trust for Glōci, Sign up for your $1/month trial period at Shopify.com/happy Headway - the #1 daily growth app that delivers key insights from the world's best non fiction books in bite sized 15 minute reads and audio. Save 25% off when you go to makeheadway.com/happy. HIGHLIGHTS How to find & build friendships that fuel your happiness, success, and longevity. Ways I've found friends I actually gel amazing with. How having meaningful friendships has strengthened our marriage. You don't have to be burnt out (what I learned from the founder of Poppi.) Our hack for bringing more joy into our life. How your friendships are impacting your joy, finances, romantic relationship, and more. Fun ways we've expanded our network and attracted bigger opportunities. RESOURCES Apply for the our Elite Entrepreneur Mastermind - got to Chrisharder.me/mastermind Join the Audacity Challenge HERE! Join the most supportive mastermind on the internet HERE! Check out our FREE 90-Day Business Blueprint HERE! Listen to my free SECRET PODCASTS SERIES - Operation: Rekindle This B*tch Get glōci HERE Use code: HAPPY at checkout for 25% off! FOLLOW Follow me: @loriharder Follow Chris: @chriswharder Follow glōci: @getgloci
Bradley Keefer is the Chief Revenue Officer and Justin Jefferson is the VP of Strategy & Insights at Keen Decision Systems, where Bayesian-powered marketing mix modeling meets scenario planning and outcome forecasting, helping brands move from rearview analytics to predictive decisioning.With decades of combined experience across SaaS, analytics, and brand strategy, Bradley and Justin are redefining how marketers plan, forecast, and invest. Instead of treating marketing as a cost center, they help brands model “what if” scenarios, forecasting how every incremental dollar drives revenue across channels.Whether you're scaling a fast-growing brand or managing a multimillion-dollar marketing budget, Bradley and Justin offer a masterclass in using data to make confident, forward-looking decisions that compound over time.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:38] Intro[01:12] Measuring how marketing spend drives growth[02:29] Building models that adapt to brand maturity[04:35] Balancing brand building with performance spend[07:24] Shifting focus from capturing to creating demand[08:41] Driving demand to boost bottom-funnel returns[09:34] Breaking growth limits with data-driven planning[12:49] Connecting viral moments to sustain momentum[14:50] Building brands that go beyond ad optimization[15:30] Stay updated with new episodes[15:43] Simplifying setup for data-heavy marketing tools[18:44] Designing analytics tools for marketing teams[20:23] Updating models fast to learn and adapt quicker[22:42] Using data to balance old and new media spendResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeMarketing mix modeling powered by AI keends.com/Follow Bradley Keefer linkedin.com/in/bradley-keeferFollow Justin Jefferson linkedin.com/in/justin-a-jeffersonIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!
Visit: RadioLawTalk.com for information & full episodes! Follow us on Facebook: bit.ly/RLTFacebook Follow us on Twitter: bit.ly/RLTTwitter Follow us on Instagram: bit.ly/RLTInstagram Subscribe to our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Owf1BEB-klmtD_92-uqzg Your Radio Law Talk hosts are exceptional attorneys and love what they do! They take breaks from their day jobs and make time for Radio Law Talk so that the rest of the country can enjoy the law like they do. Follow Radio Law Talk on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!
Hurray's Girl Beer isn't just another craft brand. It's a calculated rebellion against an industry stuck in the past. In this episode, Hurray's founder Ray Biebuyck joins Taste Radio editor Ray Latif and Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante to share her vision for a beer brand that doesn't just challenge convention, it openly mocks it. Witty, unapologetic, and intentionally unorthodox, Hurray's markets flavored light beers, including Pineapple Yuzu and Blueberry Lavender varieties, crafted not to honor tradition, but to disrupt it. The brand's satirical, female-forward positioning flips the script in a category that has long overlooked nearly a third of its audience: women. Ray discusses how Hurray's draws more from stand-up comedy than legacy brewing playbooks, using humor and irreverence as tools for connection, and conversion. She also reveals how this disruptive approach is translating into real-world traction, with Hurray's on track to reach over 3,000 retail locations, including Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, BevMo, Total Wine, Sprouts, and Walmart, by Q1 2026. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Ray Biebuyck, Founder & CEO, Hurray's Girl Beer – Ray traces her roots back to New England and her early career in the corporate world, with stints at J.P. Morgan and WeWork after graduating from college in New York City. She discussed how, at the onset of the pandemic, she stepped in to support operations for a local beverage alcohol brand and recognized a gap in the market: a disconnect between male-dominated beer branding and female consumers. Ray eventually launched Hurray's Girl Beer in 2024 and shares the uphill journey of pitching a new beer brand in a male-dominated, slowing market, and how she carved out a niche by courting an underserved audience. She recalls self-distributing cases out of a Toyota Camry to landing shelf space in 200 retail doors across Los Angeles and Orange County and how Girl Beer secured distribution at Whole Foods, BevMo, and Total Wine. Ray also details the pivotal relationship with an Anheuser-Busch-aligned distributor, which accelerated growth and expanded reach and why she believes the brand is on track for a breakout year in 2026. Brands in this episode: Hurray's Girl Beer, Shacksbury Cider, Woodchuck Cider, Magic Hat, Ben & Jerry's, Seventh Generation, Green Mountain Coffee, Poppi, Olipop, Liquid Death, Garage Beer, Surfside, Budweiser, Bud Light, Golden Road, Elysian, Busch, Heineken, White Claw, Truly, Bud Light Seltzer, Michelob Ultra, Friday Beers
This hour, Scoot talks about Tim McGraw's new haircut, Poppi soda, and the perfect sponsors for popular bands.
Thanks to SoFi for sponsoring this episode! Need funding? Shop and compare providers in minutes + get up to $2M—with no credit hit for exploring your options. Start here → https://sofi.com/codie Join me as I sit down with Allison Ellsworth, the co-founder of Poppi, who built a billion-dollar soda company from scratch. Allison shares her incredible journey from working in oil and gas to landing a life-changing deal on Shark Tank. Discover her secrets to successful branding, attracting celebrity partnerships, and navigating a multi-billion dollar acquisition by Pepsi. We dive deep into the challenges she faced, the pivotal moments, and her invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Don't miss her insights on how to pitch investors and build a thriving community around your brand. If you've ever wanted to launch a brand, today's episode is for you. 00:00:00 Introduction 00:03:37 From Oil and Gas to Beverage Industry 00:06:19 Health Issues and the Birth of Poppy 00:08:44 Navigating Early Challenges and Going Digital 00:14:28 Building a Billion Dollar Brand 00:15:54 The Importance of Team and Culture 00:23:40 Personal Life and Business Balance 00:30:27 Celebrity Endorsements and Marketing Strategies 00:35:10 The Road to Acquisition by Pepsi 00:36:53 The Right Time for Acquisition 00:37:28 Building Relationships for Success 00:38:06 Challenges as a Female CEO 00:39:51 Handling Disrespect and Conflict 00:40:44 The Importance of a Business Coach 00:47:17 Balancing Passion and Profit 00:50:06 Letting Go of Control 00:51:26 Hiring and Culture Fit 00:56:22 Brand Building and Community 01:08:38 Inspiring the Next Generation ___________ MORE FROM BIGDEAL
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
Today on the Woody and Wilcox Show: People are predicting that today will be the rapture; The Mandalorian and Grogu trailer; Thursday is the deadline to file your claim in the Poppi lawsuit; Man sets a café on fire because he did not get mayo on his sandwich; Situations in which people over-reacted; Teenager hacked into the MGM computer system; Mistakes at work; Teaching assistant caught putting poop spray in the school's air conditioning system; And more!
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.
Monday - Bob Frier joins us following his 60th birthday. We learn Jimmy Kimmel will return to ABC. We talk favorite horror films, bad roads, the American dream and Priscilla Presley. BAM questions us on our personality traits. Brandon Kravitz on a rough NFL weekend and Orlando City win. Attorney Ray Traendly on a Poppi class action lawsuit. Plus, JCS News, JCS Trivia & You Heard it Here First.
Monday - Bob Frier joins us following his 60th birthday. We learn Jimmy Kimmel will return to ABC. We talk favorite horror films, bad roads, the American dream and Priscilla Presley. BAM questions us on our personality traits. Brandon Kravitz on a rough NFL weekend and Orlando City win. Attorney Ray Traendly on a Poppi class action lawsuit. Plus, JCS News, JCS Trivia & You Heard it Here First. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The hosts dive into the sustained wave of protein-infused consumer products – from popcorn to mashed potatoes – and debate whether the market is approaching “protein fatigue” or merely scratching the surface of a macro trend driven more by marketing than science. They also recap Taste Radio's high-energy meetup in San Diego, spotlighting several new and innovative brands showcased at the event. Show notes: 0:25: Free Tee. Nice To Meet Thee. MDR In DEC. Poppi To Popcorn. Protein ≠ Pumpkin Spice. Head High. – Ray encourages listeners to review Taste Radio on Apple Podcasts and offers a gift for those who do. The hosts recount their recent San Diego meetup, highlighting new brands like Birdie sparkling teas, cannabis ingredient company SoRSE Technology and fast-growing juice and shot company Sol-ti. They also discuss upcoming events in San Francisco, London, and the BevNET Live, NOSH Live, and Brewbound Live conferences in Marina del Rey, emphasizing early registration benefits. They turn their attention toward the deluge of new protein-infused products coming to market, from Kloud popcorn to Idahoan mashed potatoes, prompting a debate among the hosts about the limits of protein's market viability and consumer perception. The hosts also praise Rotten, a brand of better-for-you gummy worms, and highlight kanna-infused ANA brand Innerbloom as well as Happy Pop and Cien Chiles. Brands in this episode: Solti, Straightaway Cocktails, Birdie, The NA Beverage Co. Perfect Hydration, Slapp, Hoplark, Mother Earth, AleSmith, Bottle Logic, Fall Brewing, Poppi, Vita Coco, Health-Ade, Khloud, Idahoan, Mighty Squirrel, Cleveland Kitchen, Fave, Innerbloom, Happy Pop, Rotten, Fave, Cien Chiles
Poppi, Tommie Basketball Mini Plans, UNRL, Latest on Kirill negotiations, Tommie Football, CFB Week 4 Bets, Lynx in the Playoffs, Tommie vs. Falcons recap, UNRL, Gopher Football, Look ahead to NFL Week 3, The Minnesotan, NFL Week 4 Bets & more!!!
Every creative mind on LinkedIn has railed against the upcoming launch of Pepsi prebiotic. That's because it's NOT very creative. Growth strategy for a legacy brand is very different from what works in the early-stage. Making trends and following trends each have their place in the ecosystem. Watch my take on what's going on here. It's not AI-psychosis, I assure you. Your Host: Dr. James F. Richardson of Premium Growth Solutions, LLC www.premiumgrowthsolutions.com Please send feedback on this or other episodes to: admin@premiumgrowthsolutions.com
Tips from trailblazing brands, strategies to captivate venture capitalists, the explosive growth of the RTD coffee category and much more. This packed episode features highlights from Taste Radio's Chicago meetup and an in-depth look at Nutrabolt's $200 million investment in Bloom Nutrition. The hosts also dive into the next wave of coffee innovation and examine whether energy or indulgence is driving consumer demand. Show notes: 0:25: DO Buy? Ninety Seconds. ‘Bolt & Bloom. A Tost. Coffee Talk. No Pistachio? – The hosts revisit Taste Radio's Chicago meetup and preview upcoming events in San Diego and San Francisco, reminding listeners how easy it is to register. The conversation turns to Nutrabolt's increased investment in Bloom Nutrition and how smaller, fast-growing brands are leveraging relationships with “mini-strategics” rather than selling to giants like PepsiCo or Coca-Cola. They also spotlight non-alcoholic sparkling wine alternative Tost and its recent funding round, before discussing the evolving RTD coffee market and the challenges of standing out in a highly customizable and saturated category. John and Mike highlight Oat Haus' “Dubai Chocolate” granola butter and Jacqui praises Narra's ube vanilla oat milk latte. 27:53: Interviews from Taste Radio's Chicago Meetup – We kick things off with Chomps co-founder and CEO Rashid Ali, who reveals how a $6,500 investment grew into a meat snack empire through smart e-commerce and a customer-first mindset. He's followed by Ingredion's Adams Berzins, who explores the future of sugar reduction and Mollye Santilli of Springdale Ventures, who talks about the investment firm's emphasis on funding culturally resonant, community-driven brands. Brian Rosen of InvestBev detailed his $500M fund's strategic approach to scaling beverage companies, and Hoste Cocktails' Jordan Tepper shared how his premium cocktail brand pivoted during the pandemic. We wrap with SoRSE's Michael Flemings, who explains how brands can navigate the complex cannabis beverage space with a commitment to safety and education. Brands in this episode: Chomps, Hoste Cocktails, C4, Bloom Nutrition, Alani Nu, Celsius, Peet's Coffee, Stumptown Coffee, Intelligentsia, Tost, Laurel's Coffee, Wandering Bear, Chamberlain Coffee, Nguyen Coffee Supply, Rise Brewing Co., Starbucks, Throne Sport Coffee, Happy Coffee, RIP Cold Brew, Beekeeper Coffee, Projo, OatHaus, Narra, Funkytown Brewing, Goodles, Vitaminwater, Bai, Poppi, Begyle Brewing, Spiteful Brewing, Lucky Energy, Apologue, JuneShine, Siempre Tequila, Cann, Nomadica
From college campuses to cannabis aisles, this episode explores how emerging CPG brands are carving out space in crowded categories. The hosts unpack Better Sour's rapid retail expansion – including an exclusive Sprouts flavor and placement on United Airlines – while also spotlighting Toom's strategic refresh that helped turn a niche garlic dip into a national brand. Plus, the challenges of adaptogen overload, and how design influences consumer trust. Show notes: 0:15: Joe Who? Better Breakfast. Too(m) Good. Old Gold? Stock & Shot. Review & Win. – Jacqui's unfamiliarity with football legend Joe Montana sparks lighthearted banter about generational divides and the pitfalls of marketing to “old men.” While Mike is understandably deflated by the moment, he and Ray quickly pivot to recap a recent breakfast with the co-founders of Better Sour, a better-for-you gummy brand. The brand has secured new retail placements at Boston University, Total Wine, United Airlines, and is gearing up to launch an exclusive tart cherry flavor at Sprouts. The hosts also shine a spotlight on Toom, a garlic dip brand led by founder Matt Joyce, and commend his deliberate, slow-growth strategy. Later in the episode, the conversation turns to the relevance of endorsements from athletes of past eras and whether they still hold sway with today's consumers. The hosts also sample a range of new THC and functional beverages from brands including Woodstock, Tonik, and Golden Root. Ray gives a special shoutout to Elephant Green Chili Chutney, a zesty new condiment featured on Taste Radio's Elevator Talk series. The episode wraps with a call for listeners to review the podcast, sweetened with the promise of free T-shirts in return. Brands in this episode: Better Sour, Poppi, Toom, Yaza, Gold Bar Distillery, Spindrift, Woodstock, Golden Root, Tonik, Elephant Green Chutney
Ty Haney is the founder of Outdoor Voices, the brand that made moving your body feel cool, inclusive, and fun again.. She's also the founder of Joggy, a natural energy brand, and TYB (“Try Your Best”), a fast-growing platform helping brands build stronger communities through its community commerce model.Ty started Outdoor Voices as a college project, and it ended up becoming one of the most recognizable names in activewear. She had this fresh take on movement and community that made the brand stand out and quickly grow into a national success. At its peak, Outdoor Voices was bringing in over $160 million in revenue under her leadership and became a playbook for how community can drive real growth. After stepping away, Ty didn't slow down - she launched Joggy and later TYB, which now powers over 200 companies like Rare Beauty, Poppi, and Urban Outfitters.In today's episode, Ty gets real about the full arc of Outdoor Voices from its scrappy beginnings to becoming a national brand, and then the tough moments that led her to step away. She opens up about the challenges behind the scenes, what it felt like to walk away from something she built, and why she's now coming back to the company with a fresh perspective. We also dive into what she's learned launching Joggy from scratch, building TYB with powerhouse brands, and how she rebuilt her confidence through it all. Ty shares the lessons she wishes more founders talked about - why ownership equals control, how to manage your time and energy, and why trusting yourself is everything. This one's for anyone who's building, rebuilding, or just figuring it out as they go, Ty's story is packed with honesty, grit, and the kind of inspiration we all need to hear.In this episode, we'll talk to Ty about:* Why ownership equals control in business. [02:16]* Childhood influences and early entrepreneurial spirit. [05:16]* The origin story of Outdoor Voices. [07:57]* Outdoor Voices' unique approach to activewear. [14:08]* Product development challenges behind the scenes. [15:57]* Fundraising and relationship-building lessons. [22:23]* Scaling Outdoor Voices and the biggest lessons she learned. [28:23]* Why a strong team makes all the difference. [29:29]* The decision to leave Outdoor Voices. [30:40]* Motherhood and personal growth. [37:04]* Starting over with Try Your Best and Joggy. [39:52]* Rebuilding her confidence from the ground up. [44:04]* Time management and how Ty sets her priorities, managing three companies. [47:19]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Ty: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ty_haney/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoorvoices/* Website: https://www.outdoorvoices.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Allison Ellsworth ditched the oil industry to fix her gut problems. After getting a check from Shark Tank, she launched Poppi with her husband and co-founder on Mar 3, 2020. 5 years later, she sold Poppi for $2B to Pepsi. In this episode, Allison will tell us…How a Texas oil gal pivoted to healthy soda Going on shark tank 9 months pregnantWhy they sold on amazon instead of DTCWhy Alix Earle loves PoppiTheir lottery ticket Super Bowl ad that opened for UsherWhy 5 thousand people send hand-written messages to Poppi every monthThat they give away 30k cases of free Poppi every year #Vendinggate and her only apology to her fans How Pepsi offered to acquire Poppi for $2BWatch the interview on Youtube here: [insert YouTube link]NEWSLETTER:https://tboypod.com/newsletter OUR 2ND SHOW:Want more business storytelling from us? Check our weekly deepdive show, The Best Idea Yet: The untold origin story of the products you're obsessed with. Listen for free to The Best Idea Yet: https://wondery.com/links/the-best-idea-yet/NEW LISTENERSFill out our 2 minute survey: https://qualtricsxm88y5r986q.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dp1FDYiJgt6lHy6GET ON THE POD: Submit a shoutout or fact: https://tboypod.com/shoutouts SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tboypod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tboypodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tboypod Linkedin (Nick): https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-martell/Linkedin (Jack): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-crivici-kramer/Anything else: https://tboypod.com/ About Us: The daily pop-biz news show making today's top stories your business. Formerly known as Robinhood Snacks, The Best One Yet is hosted by Jack Crivici-Kramer & Nick Martell.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.