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One of Mayor Mike Johnston's biggest priorities this year is showing Denverites how much better 16th St. looks post-construction. And as of Tuesday, he's got a big new prize to show off: The Denver Pavilions. He's arranged to buy the 27-year-old “mall on the mall” for $37 million — Coyote Ugly and all. Former Republican congressional candidate Valdamar Archuleta joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to talk about the mayor's downtown shopping spree. Plus, we debate the latest calls to boycott an allegedly MAGA-owned business in Wheat Ridge and, of course, our wins and fails of the week. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ Paul mentioned a Reddit thread where protesters were discussing their actions against the Rocky Mountain Reckoning event at The Werks last Sunday. He also talked about Bake Fest this Saturday morning, RTD's Access-on-Demand rate change, and the Starbucks inside REI. Olivia talked about banned books and leaf-peepers in Georgetown. Valdamar discussed the Rockies' rebuild and recent changes at the airport, as well as this pilot's frustrations. What do you think about the mayor buying the Pavilions? We need to hear your take! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 3rd episode: Wise Window Nation Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise
How does an ready-to-drink (RTD) brand that was built on the beach translate to other seasons? Surfside, Stateside Vodka's hard iced tea and lemonade canned cocktail brand, is betting big on sports this fall. Stateside co-founders CEO Clem Pappas and president Matt Quigley joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the brand's meteoric rise, its partnerships across college football and professional hockey and baseball and the newly rechristened Stateside Live!, an entertainment hub at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex where the city's professional sports teams play. Year-to-date through mid-September, Surfside's depletions (sales to retailers) reached nearly 8 million cases, about a 150% increase over last year. Prior to the interview, Zoe and Jess break down recent news stories, including the abrupt shutdown of brewpub chain Iron Hill and storied cider maker Martinelli's pivot to bev-alc.
How do you build one of the fastest-scaling independent alcohol companies in America — without diluting ownership?That's the story of Mom Water, the fruit-infused vodka water RTD brand that has gone from a backyard experiment in 2018 to a 850,000-case business by 2024 — and continues to grow. With playful, first-name flavors like Linda, Susan, and Kathy, Mom Water blazed a new path in the RTD category by staying still (non-carbonated) while everyone else went fizzy.In this episode, CEO Kara Woolsey walks us through how the brand:Turned a vacation resort hack into a disruptive category playSurvived co-packing disasters and empty warehouses to stay alive in Year OneWent viral on TikTok and built a cult following among Gen Z — even though it was designed for momsLanded major retail accounts like Target, Walmart, and Publix, with chains now driving more than half of its businessLaunched Dad Water, a tequila water, and the very different challenges of scaling a second brandBalanced explosive growth with profitability by staying lean, resisting big checks, and keeping ownership in the familyFor drinks founders, Kara's story is a rare playbook in discipline and execution: Building a national brand that can compete with the big RTD players — without selling a majority stake.If you want to understand how to scale a breakout brand in one of the most competitive categories, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Last Call:
Alex Pratt is the CEO and Founder of Good Boy Vodka, a fast-growing RTD brand known for great taste and a mission supporting veterans, service dogs, and breast cancer causes. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Success is not just about making money. It's about balance, priorities, and building a meaningful life while you grow your business. 2. Distribution is often the biggest hurdle for a consumer brand; persistence and a strong mission can open doors. 3. Giving back can be a growth engine. A mission-driven business creates loyalty and lasting impact. Check out Alex' website to know more about their product - Good Boy Vodka Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Franocity - Franocity has helped hundreds of people leave unfulfilling jobs and invest in recession-resilient businesses through franchising. Visit Franocity.com to book a free consultation and start your franchising journey with expert guidance. Policygenius - Secure your family's future. Head to Policygenius.com to compare free life insurance quotes from top companies and see how much you could save.
What is happening globally today? The Simpsons Movie is set to have a sequel. Last night, the Broncos secured a victory against the Bengals. The Coen Brothers are being featured in an art exhibit here in Denver, while RTD is currently facing challenges.The fun continues on our social media pages!Jeremy, Katy & Josh Facebook: CLICK HERE Jeremy, Katy & Josh Instagram: CLICK HERE
「第三のビール・サントリー「金麦」がビールに格上げ 2026年10月の酒税一本化に合わせ 価格差縮小に対応へ」 2026年の酒税一本化を前に「第3のビール」の「金麦」をビールに格上げします。サントリーはこれまで「第3のビール」として販売している「金麦」を、2026年10月から麦芽の比率を50%に引き上げ「ビール」として発売します。ビール類の酒税をめぐっては2020年から段階的に改正され、2026年10月にはビール、発泡酒、第3のビールの税額は同じ額になります。ビールは約9円の減税となる一方、第3のビールは約7円の増税となり価格差が縮まります。サントリー ブランド部門長兼ビール・RTD本部長 多田寅さん:ビール市場の活性化は、エコノミー市場の活性化がまず第一だと思う。サントリーは節約志向も考慮して「金麦」の価格を増税分の上乗せにとどめ、ビール市場に力を注ぎます。
Find out more about Sound Money Defense League here: https://www.soundmoneydefense.org/Why are over 30 U.S. states passing sound money laws in 2025? JP Cortez, Executive Director of the Sound Money Defense League, returns to RTD to break down the latest battles over gold and silver legislation, including shocking updates out of Kentucky and Idaho.From tax exemptions to gold reserves, discover how states are pushing back against federal overreach, central bank digital currencies, and inflation-driven policy.Connect with my guest (Jp Cortez) on social media: https://x.com/JpCortez27
It became “a way of life” built around the simple idea of replacing meals with diet shakes…but can SlimFast stay relevant in an era when consumers are fixated with another weight loss mechanism that promises swift results? Is there a nutritional supplement brand more intertwined with fluctuations inherent to the weight management category than SlimFast? Even decades before SlimFast launched, the parent company (Thompson Medical) created an appetite suppressant gum called Slim-Mint Gum containing benzocaine, a diet pill called Figure-Aid, and another weight loss supplement Dexatrim (which became the best-selling diet pill on the market). Then, in 1977, Thompson Medical introduced SlimFast…marketed as a meal replacement shake that was to be utilized at breakfast and lunch. Unfortunately, during its first year on the market, the FDA issued warnings about the dangers of liquid dieting products…and every meal replacement supplement (including SlimFast) were removed from store shelves. Coincidentally, Thompson Medical was able to reintroduce SlimFast in the early 1980s…right around the time when Dexatrim sales began to decline due to regulatory concerns over ingredient safety. By 1984, Thompson Medical reported sales of approximately $197 million (which would be more than $600 million today adjusting for inflation). But throughout the mid-1980s, categorical competition heightened…especially after Oprah Winfrey began promoting Opti-Fast. So, gaining inspiration from that celebrity endorsement, SlimFast stumbled upon what would become the brand's most successful advertising tool going forward. Hearing about a weight loss wager between Los Angeles Dodgers manager and two of his players, SlimFast signed Tommy Lasorda and helped him lose a significant amount of weight. It was the first highly successful campaign in a line of male celebrity endorsements that was largely responsible for significantly increasing brand awareness and expanding SlimFast into RTD beverages, frozen meals, and packaged snacks. Throughout the 1990s, SlimFast held a dominant market share across the intensely growing weight management subcategories…reporting sales of $611 million in 1999 (which would be around $1.2 billion today adjusting for inflation). And at the height of its popularity in 2000, Unilever acquired SlimFast for $2.4 billion. But a few years into the aggressive expansion efforts by Unilever, consumer preferences shifted within the weight management category, as the high protein and low carbohydrate diet craze (focused on Atkins and the South Beach Diet) became extremely popular. Unilever made various strategic product (and marketing) adjustments in hopes of better positioning SlimFast within the shifting marketplace, but retail sales fell 80% compared to when the brand was acquired. In 2014, Unilever eventually offloaded the brand to the private equity firm Kainos Capital. Over the next four years, Kainos Capital revitalized SlimFast, flipped sales trajectory into the fastest-growing weight management brand, and sold SlimFast to Glanbia for $350 million. Initially, Glanbia was able to successfully piggyback off the “keto diet trend,” growing SlimFast 45% larger than before the acquisition…but struggles intensified starting in 2022. But last week, when Heartland Food Products Group (owner of the Splenda low-calorie sweetener brand) announced it had acquired the SlimFast from Glanbia. And though Splenda is one of the most recognizable global brands, how does that translate into a brand selling nutritional supplements and RTD protein shakes?
AleSmith is celebrating its 30th anniversary with momentum behind new products – in and out of beer – and a growing contract brewing business. In this episode of the Brewbound Podcast, AleSmith president Brandon Richards shares how the San Diego craft brewery has evolved to meet drinkers' needs with new products while fortifying its business by brewing for others. Richards explains how the Party Tricks IPA line and addition of Sun Path fruited lager line have driven growth for the company. Party Tricks has helped “turn the business around” over the last two years, he says. In 2025, AleSmith expects to double its contract volume year-over-year with plans for more in 2026. The company is in the process of completing facility upgrades to enable spirits-based RTD production that will expand its consumer base as well as its own product mix. AleSmith is expanding its flagship Speedway Stout brand for its first spirit-based offering with Speedway Espresso Martini, and the company is adding a second spirit-based ready-to-drink (RTD) line with Hoptails, which Richards believes is a first-to-market product as a hard hop water cocktail. Richards also gives insights into what AleSmith is looking for in a contract partner, what he believes the brewery offers its clients and how much volume the company has earmarked for co-packing in 2026. Before the interview, the Brewbound team breaks down the biggest industry headlines, including Charlie Sheen's non-alc beer, Molson Coors' new CEO, investors' lawsuit against Island Brands and Boston Beer's winning pick for The Summer I Turned Pretty.
On Episode #182 of the PricePlow Podcast, Mike and Ben welcome back Max Fairchild alongside industry legend Chuck Letchman and marketing strategist Dan Pierce to explore the launch of Brew Shockalaka, a revolutionary zero-sugar coffee beverage that's redefining what functional drinks can be. This isn't your typical RTD coffee or energy drink - it's a complete reimagining of the category that combines dessert-inspired flavors with a powerful 1000mg nootropic matrix, all while maintaining zero sugar and zero dairy. Brew Shockalaka! Zero-Sugar Dairy-Free Nootropic Coffee That Tastes Amazing Max, who first appeared on the PricePlow channel back in 2018 during his Nutrex Research days, has partnered with distribution veteran Chuck Letchman to create what they call "the Deadpool of coffee" - a brand that refuses to take itself too seriously while delivering serious functional benefits. From the challenges of retort manufacturing to the strategic decision to launch in fitness channels first, this conversation reveals the complexities of beverage innovation and the power of industry relationships in bringing disruptive products to market. The team discusses their unique approach to product development, from sourcing natural caffeine from Colombian beans to incorporating CognatiQ coffee fruit extract and a strategic 560mg dose of potassium. With flavors like Salted Caramel, Café Mocha, and Maple Cinnamon Donut, "Brew Shock" is targeting the convergence of energy drinks, functional coffee, and nootropic supplements while building a brand identity that embraces music, comedy, and authentic consumer connections. https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/brew-shockalaka-182 Video: Brew Shockalaka - The Coffee Revolution with Max Fairchild, Chuck Letchman, and Dan Pierce https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eDuXsHu2m0 Detailed Show Notes: Building the Zero Sugar Coffee Revolution (0:00) – Introductions: Reuniting with Max Fairchild (2:15) – Chuck Letchman's Industry Legacy and Partnership Philosophy (4:15) – Dan Pierce: The Digital Marketing Strategist (6:00) – The Genesis Story: From Powder to RTD Innovation (8:30) – Manufacturing Challenges: The Retort Reality (12:00) – Flavor Development: Dessert-Inspired Innovation (17:00) – The Science Behind the Buzz: Nootropic Innovation (22:00) – Labeling Strategy: Transparency as Differentiation (26:45) – The Retort Advantage: Manufacturing as Competitive Moat (32:00) – The Chuck Letchman Effect: Industry Relationships as Assets (38:45) – Team Dynamics: Swiss Army Knife Approach (44:15) – Strategic Pacing: Growth Management Philosophy (50:30) – Target Demographics: Coffee Culture Convergence (53:45) – Brand Personality: The Deadpool of Coffee (55:30) – Alcohol Collaborations: Expanding Usage Occasions (1:00:15) – Strategic Partnerships: Redefine Foods Collaboration (1:07:15) – Digital Marketing Revolution: TikTok Strategy (1:12:00) – International Expansion: Testing Global Waters Where to Follow and Learn More Brew Shockalaka: Company Website PricePlow.com/brew-shockalaka ...... Read more on the PricePlow Blog
A major commercial real estate company is buying up buildings in downtown Denver and wants to convert the empty offices into housing, but the mysterious landowner is standing in the way. And what does the owner of Lakeside Amusement Park have to do with the mayor's big plan to revitalize the city's urban core? Then, RTD has committed almost $1 million to pilot a shuttle service to Red Rocks, but it won't be serving concert goers. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about these big stories on development and transit, plus a listener question about Clerk and Recorder Paul López's delinquent property tax payments. Bree spoke with Paul López on Monday's show about his beef with the mayor's proposed budget cuts. Paul mentioned CBRE's recent analysis of downtown real estate and Evan Makovsky's recent deal to lease space on 16th St. to Green Spaces with help from the Downtown Development Authority. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this September 23rd episode: Wise Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Clyfford Still Museum Window Nation Downtown Denver Partnership Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise
Points of discussion:1. Acquired - So you bought a brewery. Now what?2. Defining your Brand Equity: Fast & Slow3. Embrace the "Staggered" rebrand launch 4. When to jettison your Brand Equity 5. A designer & a lawyer walk into a brewery -Learn more at: www.craftbeerrebranded.com / http://www.beyondbeerbook.com-Have a topic or question you'd like us to field on the show? Shoot it our way: hello@cododesign.com-Join 8,000+ food and bev industry pros who are subscribed to the Beer Branding Trends Newsletter (and access all past issues) at: www.beerbrandingtrends.com
Observable phenomena that precede changes in larger markets are found everywhere…hence why I believe a trio of trending nutraceutical ingredients could be a powerful leading indicator for the next generation of energy drinks. And I want to set the stage by providing my basic mental model surrounding the market evolution of energy drinks. Firstly, energy drinks are no longer just sugar-filled flavored caffeinated carbonated waters. In fact, more than half of all energy drinks sold in the United States are sugar free. Secondly, energy drinks are no longer marketed primarily to thrill-seeking young males. In fact, energy drink consumers have evolved greatly…with the current market largely gender-balanced, age-balanced, and lifestyle-oriented. Lastly, energy drinks are no longer a niche beverage category. In fact, the categorical mainstreaming effect catapulted three energy drink brands onto the top ten list of largest liquid refreshment beverages. Additionally, every multibillion-dollar functional beverage category (such as energy drinks) is in the early innings of a remarkable transformation…as consumers move closer towards this four-way intersection of taste, convenience, nutrition, and (not only) functionality (but) multifunctional benefits that contribute to overall wellbeing. And I'm not debating against plain ole great tasting sugar free energy drinks remaining a consumption evergreen…but an evolving arbitrage will continue existing due to individuals not wanting totally different consumption habits (just more beneficial ones). So, amidst this booming desire for packing more functionality within energy drinks…savvy ingredient companies have found a catalyst to mainstream awareness and mass acceptance. Currently, almost all energy drink consumers understand the category as stimulation (delivered through caffeine). Yet, even against the backdrop of likely the highest consumer interest level in caffeine ever…why then do I think Cognizin citicoline, goBHB ketones, and Enfinity paraxanthine, will play an outsized role in the next generation of energy drinks? For the evolving RTD energy category, that increasingly serves as a euphemism for other benefits like alertness, focus, reduced fatigue, and improved endurance…consumers concentrating around a handful of clear outcomes will play an important role in how these nutraceutical ingredients (beyond caffeine) deliver relevant products that tap into broader market opportunities. Also, over the last handful of years…work-life balance has gotten redefined (and adjusted bi-directionally), as the typical 9-to-5 work schedule intermixes with other segments of personal time. Additionally, consider the widening range of applications and “physical versus mental energy” need states this functional beverage category can serve like active nutrition, cognitive performance, and healthy aging…suggesting consumers (more than ever) are looking for solutions that help energize them throughout the day (even into the night) and help recovery for the next day. But then why does caffeine still dominate as the primary ingredient solution? Caffeine is universally lauded for its ability to kickstart the day, with effects felt almost immediately, but the ingredient does have its limitations. So, taking into consideration those well-known limiting factors…how about I briefly describe some of the underlying drivers of demand that support my non-consensus (and early) conviction around escalating importance of (Cognizin, goBHB, and Enfinity paraxanthine) within the next generation of energy drinks.
Whats going on around the world today? We have some exciting new updates on Taylor Swift, relationship advice from Matthew McConaughey, fresh RTD shuttle experiences, and an adorable friendship between two animals at the Denver Zoo!The fun continues on our social media pages!Jeremy, Katy & Josh Facebook: CLICK HERE Jeremy, Katy & Josh Instagram: CLICK HERE
Steve, Justine, Darren, Kathy & Beka talk about Joe Montana's new RTD cocktail. TBD music by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Important Links: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theabvnetwork Our Events Page: bourbonpalooza.com Check us out at: abvnetwork.com. The ABV Barrel Shop: abvbarrelshop.com Join the revolution by adding #ABVNetworkCrew to your profile on social media.
It's Kinda 2: Electric Boogaloo – or as it's better known to most people… Snakedance! Beyond the return of the Mara, we get the return of good ol' themes of colonialism, complete with a spoiled brat heir, a difficult and ignorant historian, and a snake-oil salesman who gets his comeuppance (ironically, at the hands of snake-being!)! Join us as we discuss what the Mara are (and how RTD has corrupted that idea), to what extent Lon was actually possessed by the Mara, how Elisabeth Sladen's husband (Brian Miller) bears a striking resemblance to Jared Harris, how J.K. Rowling may have taken some inspiration from this story, and the absolute simplicity of the plot. Additionally, Anthony challenges Reilly to cosplay as Lon. If you would like to watch along with us, you can find this story available for streaming on Britbox in the USA (http://www.britbox.com) and BBC iPlayer in the UK (https://bbc.in/48GSaCB). If you're a little old fashioned and prefer physical media (like our very own Anthony), you can also find it on the Doctor Who Season 20 Blu Ray box set from Amazon US (https://amzn.to/3VyxIPe) and Amazon UK (https://amzn.to/3V2IL34) Other media mentioned in this episode*: God's Wonderful Railway (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3W5knhz | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/4mwBqUP) Blake's 7 – The Complete Collection (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Zh7045 | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/39luyGI) Midsomer Murders Ultimate Collection (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/47TPjsq | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3KaQCtg) Men Behaving Badly: The Complete Series (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4mteVAa | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3KavW4x) Doc Martin: The Complete Collection (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4nIalip | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/4gEytjO) Caligula: The Ultimate Cut (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/47SQvw9 | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3VrVVa8) Ghostbusters (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3J9Ad2T | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3Kynmr8) The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Z8yU28 | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2Z5Nffp) Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, by J.K. Rowling (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/47Yl5ER | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3VoPUuT) The Lord of the Rings, by J.R.R. Tolkein (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4dXHbGC | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/4dTcS3R) The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Amazon US: https://amzn.to/48vQjkz | Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/45RC3AL) Storm Thorgorson's artwork (http://bit.ly/4gy8biZ) Finally, you can also follow us and interact with us on Facebook and Instagram. You can also e-mail us at watchers4d@gmail.com, and you can join us on our Discord server. If you're enjoying this podcast, please subscribe to the show, and leave us a rating or review. *Support Watchers in the Fourth Dimension! We are an Amazon affiliate and earn a small commission from purchases through Amazon links. This goes towards the running costs of the podcast.
In this episode I'm joined by Justin Fenchel, co-founder and CEO of BeatBox Beverages, one of the fastest-growing RTD (Ready-To-Drink) brands in the U.S., redefining how consumers experience flavored cocktails. BeatBox went from an MBA project to a $245M projected brand in 2025, winning over Mark Cuban on Shark Tank and more recently, partnering with Shaquille O'Neal, who not only invested but co-developed the company's most successful product launch to date, Shaq's Blueberry Lemonade. BeatBox is now the #3 RTD nationwide and available in 130,000+ retail locations across all 50 states. The brand was named one of AdAge's America's Hottest Brands in 2024. Make sure to check out BeatBox at:https://beatboxbeverages.com/ Check out my new book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4kRKGTX Sign up for Starting Small University to join our interviews LIVE and ask questions: https://startingsmallmedia.org/startingsmalluniversity Visit Starting Small Media: https://startingsmallmedia.org/ Subscribe to exclusive Starting Small emails: https://startingsmallmedia.org/newsletter-signup Follow Starting Small: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingsmallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Startingsmallpod/?modal=admin_todo_tour LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/cameronnagle
Your cash is losing value. What if it could grow instead? Turn fading paper into spendable 24K GoldNotes: https://buygoldnotes.comMartin Armstrong's 2032 Forecast Is Playing Out, Will You Be Ready? In this exclusive RTD interview, returning guest Kerry Lutz, host of the Financial Survival Network, breaks down the most shocking forecasts from his book “The World According to Martin Armstrong”, including predictions on gold, silver, Bitcoin, the death of fiat currency, and the final days of the U.S. dollar.Get a copy of the book, "The World According to Martin Armstrong" here: https://amzn.to/3IqqNER
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
Type 40 • A Doctor Who Podcast Episode 158: The Great Deflector Doctor Who: the world's longest running, best loved Science Fiction and fantasy TV series – is on “Pause”. Following a disastrous relaunch co-production between BBC Studios, Bad Wolf Studios and Disney+ a little more than 18 months ago… What's gone wrong? Why? Who's to blame? That's all up for debate! In the short term, all eyes and ears are on still present showrunner and head writer Russell T Davies. The Type 40 roundtable of Time Agents have gathered to process two interviews RTD has given, in recent weeks. For any indication as to where things are at with the Time Lord. Our discussion was recorded as live with regular host Dan Hadley taking comments from multiple platforms, back in the cloister room. You can listen in HERE now: Find the Type 40 • A Doctor Who Podcast home feed at type40.podbean.com. Listen to Type 40 across all major pod catchers including Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple. Type 40 is also part of the FPNet Master Feed @Fpnet.podbean.com If you would like to contact us directly you can: • Email: type40doctorwho@outlook.com • Twitter: @type40doctorwho • Instagram: @type40doctorwho • Join the Facebook group Type 40 • A Doctor Who Fan Group: http://bit.ly/type40_fbgroup • Subscribe to the Type 40 Doctor Who YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh8T5-mFYWblZo6lnakCSCw TeePublic Store: Help support the Fandom Podcast Network and wear some of their fantastic original designs and logos on t-shirts, mugs, hats and more from Tee Public Go to: https://www.teepublic.com/user/fandompodcastnetwork or just search Fandom Podcast Network to find our storefront. Please listen to our other formidable podcasts on the Fandom Podcast Network: Master Feed: https://fpnet.podbean.com/
Points of discussion:1. M&A Mania: Why Craft Beer Acquisitions Are Everywhere Right Now2. Is a House of Brand right for your brewery? [BBT Newsletter]3. Rebranding Wachusett [Case Study]-Learn more at: www.craftbeerrebranded.com / http://www.beyondbeerbook.com-Have a topic or question you'd like us to field on the show? Shoot it our way: hello@cododesign.com-Join 8,000+ food and bev industry pros who are subscribed to the Beer Branding Trends Newsletter (and access all past issues) at: www.beerbrandingtrends.com
Ain't no party like a Beatbox party, cause a Beatbox party don't stop…except when the production lines get foreclosed on! But to better understand that last statement, it requires a brief four-year “rise and fall” history lesson surrounding the small Canadian public company named Flow Beverage Corporation. In mid-2021, a reverse takeover transaction was completed on the premium water company, and Flow Beverage began trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange. After that liquidity event, the total fundraising amount of Flow Beverage ballooned to around $100 million (which included celebrities like Post Malone and athletes like Russell Westbrook). And I'm mentioning that financial snapshot of total amount raised by Flow Beverage for interesting several reasons. Firstly, irrespective of CPG category…raising nine-figures of capital is substantial (and shouldn't be overlooked). Also, it appears even more significant after realizing the company's highest annual revenue never expanded beyond merely one-third of that total fundraising amount…a far cry from the founder (and CEO) Nicholas Reichenbach stating in 2021 that he'd “take Flow Beverage to multi-billion dollars of revenue annually.” Next, capital structure challenges became a central reason for the demise of Flow Beverage…a mere four years after going public. And arguably the “straw that broke the camel's back” happened in May 2025 when Nicholas Reichenbach signed a series of binding term sheets (requiring personal guarantee) that seemed (even at the time) unlikely to solve any working capital issues. But as you've likely been able to determine already…Flow Beverage wasn't Liquid Death. And since Flow Beverage wasn't a highly skilled marketing company that just so happened to sell packaged beverages…burning nine-figures of capital on advertising would've been frankly absurd! Instead, at the time of the reverse takeover transaction, Flow Beverage owned two artesian springs and operated two North American Tetra Pak-capable production facilities. So, Flow Beverage was the opposite of the typical beverage company deploying an asset-light business model. And while those Tetra Pak manufacturing sites were used to produce Flow Alkaline Spring Water, the company also utilized them for contract manufacturing…servicing customers like BeatBox Beverages, BioSteel, and Joyburst. But a few weeks ago, Flow Beverage was forced to enter into a support agreement and transfer ownership of the business and its assets to primary lenders (i.e. NFS Leasing Canada and RI Flow) after they demanded repayment. And this foreclosure obviously leaves uncertainty around what could happen during the restructuring process...especially for its largest contract manufacturing customer Beatbox Beverages (one of the fastest-growing and top-selling RTD alcohol brands in the United States). If you aren't familiar, Beatbox Beverages has become the brand that's bringing the party to the alcohol industry. Yet, the “original party punch” has proven its way more than just a music festival favorite…becoming the most engaged alcohol brand on social media, with availability in over 125K stores across all 50 states. In 2025, BeatBox Beverages is expected to sell over 12 million cases…amounting to over $250 million in retail sales. And with BeatBox Beverages experiencing triple-digit YoY retail sales growth over the past few years…it must consistently reach for operational excellence, or the proverbial party could end abruptly.
On this episode, we're talking with Isabel Washington, the founder of Laurel's, a rapidly growing ready-to-drink coffee brand powered by regenerative A2 dairy. We dive into Isabel's personal journey discovering A2 milk, how it transformed her relationship with dairy, and why it became the cornerstone of her brand. You'll hear how she spotted a massive gap in the RTD coffee aisle — where 90% of products were non-dairy — and why she designed Laurel's first three SKUs to reflect what people actually order at real coffee shops. Isabel also pulls back the curtain on the scrappy, behind-the-scenes grind of building a CPG brand from scratch — from tying up all her money in the first production run to grinding through 40 demos in 50 days at Erewhon. And we talk about the bigger picture — how content, culture, and motivated moms will determine the future of regenerative food and beverage. Episode Highlights:
Get your Hazardous Medium shirt today at the RTD store. https://www.rethinkingthedollar.com/store/hazardous-medium-of-exchange/In today's Thursday Morning Check-In, we break down why the Fed is trapped between inflation and recession, and why stagflation 2025 may be the final trigger for a total economic reset.
Months into an investigation, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has decided that East High School's all-gender restrooms do, in fact, violate Title IX. The feds gave DPS ten days from last Friday to comply with a resolution to convert the bathrooms back to single gender — and while Superintendent Alex Marrero responded by doubling down on the district's support of trans students, he has yet to comment specifically on whether DPS will follow through. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love dig into the bathroom battle, plus discuss new data from RTD that shows customer complaints about open drug use along the transit system are down dramatically. Will it be enough to bring ridership back to pre-pandemic levels? For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed this interview with Dr. Jessica Apted, the Medical Director of Sploot, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 3rd episode: Colfax BID Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise
Jeff and Jason chat about the state of the Commonwealth, the silly RTD article and the campaign.
Welcome to The Doctor Who: Alhambra Podcast, our Doctor Who centric podcast that discusses the recent DW and Big Finish news, reviewing Doctor Who audios from Big Finish, both classic and new series Doctor Who episodes, and much more! In this episode of the Doctor Who Alhambra Podcast, host Brett uses the fun from episode 383, and has both AI engines create a second season of Doctor Who, to see if RTD and Moffat were right in the CBR that AI cannot create like humans can. Using an updated prompt, and with a minor mistake, Brett gives two AI engines the prompt to create the second season of Doctor Who. Welcome and Synopsis to EP 387 - 00:00:00 My Rational for a Second AI Created Season of Doctor Who - 00:01:31 My AI Prompt for the Season 2 of Doctor Who - 00:05:08 The Season 2 by Showrunner ChatGPT - 00:10:15 The Season 2 by Showrunner Gemini - 00:37:26 Conclusion, Contact Info & Copyright - 01:02:02 Video Referenced in this episode are: CBR: https://www.cbr.com/doctor-who-showrunners-ai-use/ DWAP Blog with AI's Season 1 and Episode Breakdown: https://alhambrapodcast.weebly.com/blog/results-from-ai-writing-season-1-for-a-new-doctor-who-season Stay tuned for more Doctor Who goodness, including monthly Big Finish reviews, audio commentary, retro-reviews, the DWAP "Rassilon Seal of Approval" and beyond!
Jeff keeps on trolling the RTD article.
Jeff calls out the RTD for a ridiculous article about Jason Miyares.
Jeff goes over the silly RTD hit piece on Miyares and then chats with Brian Maloney.
The text line weighs in about the RTD article Jeff was talking about earlier.
Tip Top Proper Cocktails is rewriting the rules of RTDs. In just a few years, the brand has gone from a scrappy airline partnership to a Top 30 RTD brand in Nielsen — and #1 in the high-proof RTD segment, outpacing competitors with 72% year-over-year growth. The brand also hit a new sales benchmark, surpassing $10 million in revenue in the last 12 months.In this episode, Tip Top CEO Nick Reely shares how the company has scaled while staying disciplined about strategy — and why the fundamentals of growth still matter, even in one of the most dynamic beverage categories.Why listen? Get the inside scoop on:The growth drivers behind Tip Top's rise — and why distribution alone isn't enough.How to pick the right distributors — ones with a growth mentality and a willingness to give your brand real share of voice.Channel strategy that works — from grocery and liquor to airlines and hotels.Why earned media beats paid campaigns — and how innovation and bartender collaborations create “talk value.”Key brand health metrics every entrepreneur should track, including velocity, rebuy rate, and retailer satisfaction.This conversation is a playbook for any founder or operator looking to break through in RTDs — or any crowded drinks category.Last Call: Fundraising before you hit $1M in sales? It's one of the toughest hurdles for drinks founders. We break down the real options for brands too small for venture capital, from friends and family to grants and angels (yes, they're still active). And more!Don't miss our next episode, dropping on September 3.For the latest updates, follow us:Business of Drinks:YouTubeLinkedInInstagram @bizofdrinksErica Duecy, co-host: Erica Duecy is founder and co-host of Business of Drinks and one of the drinks industry's most accomplished digital and content strategists. She runs the consultancy and advisory arm of Business of Drinks and has built publishing and marketing programs for Drizly, VinePair, SevenFifty, and other hospitality and drinks tech companies.LinkedInInstagram @ericaduecyScott Rosenbaum, co-host: Scott Rosenbaum is co-host of Business of Drinks and a veteran strategist and analyst with deep experience building drinks portfolios. Most recently, he was the Portfolio Development Director at Distill Ventures. Prior to that, he was the Vice President of T. Edward Wines & Spirits, a New York-based importer and distributor.LinkedInCaroline Lamb, contributor: Caroline is a producer and on-air contributor at Business of Drinks and a key account sales and marketing specialist at AHD Vintners, a Michigan-based importer and distributor.LinkedInInstagram @borkalineSPONSOR: SWIG Partners is exclusively offering $100 off their supplier-distributor matchmaking fee when you mention the Business of Drinks podcast, or inquire via this link: https://www.swigpartners.com/businessofdrinksIf you enjoyed today's conversation, follow Business of Drinks wherever you're listening, and don't forget to rate and review us. Your support helps us reach new listeners passionate about the drinks industry. Thank you!
Points of discussion:1. How to de-risk your brewery's rebrand [BBT Newsletter]2. Email: isaac@cododesign.com to discuss your brewery's rebrand3. Craft Beer, Rebranded [book bundle]4. Organizing your internal team ahead of a rebrand [BBT Newsletter] - EAT YOUR VEGGIES! 5. Package Refresh Series 6. Defining your Brand Equity, fast & slow [BBT Newsletter]-Learn more at: www.craftbeerrebranded.com / http://www.beyondbeerbook.com-Have a topic or question you'd like us to field on the show? Shoot it our way: hello@cododesign.com-Join 8,000+ food and bev industry pros who are subscribed to the Beer Branding Trends Newsletter (and access all past issues) at: www.beerbrandingtrends.com
Angel Margarita is co-founded by Academy Award-nominated actress, multi-platinum recording artist, and producer Hailee Steinfeld in partnership with Rodrigo Hernandez of Premium Beers Group, a leader within the alcohol industry in Mexico.what we chat about:Consumer taste evolving in the spirits and RTD space, particularly with tequila-based cocktailsProcess for developing Angel Margarita's initial flavors + how do youapproach product innovation as you look to expand the lineup?How Rodrigo's experience at Premium Beers Group influenced your approach tolaunching and growing Angel MargaritaIG angelmargarita | angelmargarita.comPlus, hear from Caryn Johnson of BOND and their recent launch of women's hormonal health products into Whole Foods!IG _bondlife | bond.lifeFind Me:IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studiocitrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.comCreate your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
On this episode of Bar Hacks, host David Klemt sits down with Rob Minucci, CEO and co-founder of Talkhouse Encore, a premium RTD brand inspired by the legendary dive bar Stephen Talkhouse in the Hamptons. Together, they delve into the story behind the brand's inception during the pandemic, discussing how Rob's business partner Ruby Honerkamp (whose family owns the iconic bar), sought to bring the spirit of the Talkhouse to the masses through gluten-free vodka and tequila seltzers. Or, as Rob explains, dive bar classics in RTD form.Rob shares insights into the challenges of launching a new beverage brand, from navigating distributor relationships to the importance of creating a standout product that resonates with consumers. He emphasizes the significance of authenticity and flavor, particularly for the Gen Z demographic, who are looking for more than just a drink;they want a story and a connection to the brand.You'll learn about the strategic decisions that shaped Talkhouse Encore, including its unique approach to market research and branding. Rob explains how they focused on building a strong local presence before considering expansion, ensuring that they meet consumer demands with quality ingredients and an engaging brand narrative.Join us for a fascinating discussion on entrepreneurship in the beverage industry, the power of storytelling, and the art of creating a product that stands out in a crowded market.NotesTalkhouse Encore websiteTalkhouse Encore InstagramPanoplaiBar Hacks IGDavid Klemt IGKRG Hospitality IGKRG Hospitality websiteShow notes generated in part by Headliner
Decades later…its massive influence on the U.S. food system is still being felt. So, why should we believe the tobacco industry won't be involved somehow again as more consumers move closer towards this four-way intersection of taste, convenience, nutrition, and functionality? Through the direct ownership of U.S. food companies between the 1980s and early-2000s, tobacco companies greatly impacted the American diet (maybe forever). But it one of the 20th century's most influential (yet invisible) characters, Edward Bernays, who's considered the architect of modern mass manipulation, that's responsible for indirectly linking the tobacco industry to societal “health and wellness” standards for the last century. And maybe that also insinuates you shouldn't be super surprised when I tell you that as part of its mission to build “a better tomorrow,” British American Tobacco laid out a strategic vision in 2020 to reduce the scale of its business within combustible tobacco products…and among other initiatives created its BTomorrow Ventures corporate venture capital arm investing in various brands operating within the intersecting CPG categories of functional foods, functional beverages, and nutritional supplements. Also, beyond BTomorrow Ventures, British American Tobacco has a wholly owned subsidiary called The Water Street Collective, which is essentially an agency mashup of product developers and brand creatives. With the first commercialized product launch being small-format RTD functional beverages…it appears British American Tobacco wants to test if today's more-sophisticated consumer market is interested in kicking old “bad habits” by embracing new “wellness” products that target the same benefit area. Because here's the thing…while combustible tobacco products might not be showing any signs of a comeback, that doesn't mean nicotine isn't going through a resurgence. So, is recent product launch from The Water Street Collective signaling that Big Tobacco will soon launch nicotine RTD beverages? And I know by now…many of you have seen the images (or articles about) Nicotina Energy floating around the Internet, which seems to support this notion of nicotine RTD beverages becoming the next functional beverage category, but no way! FDA has been very clear for decades that nicotine cannot be a food additive…plus the ingredient does not meet the standard of being a dietary supplement. Instead, Big Tobacco is still singing off the hymn book that Edward Bernays gave them almost a century earlier. And whether it's deploying the entire “creation of circumstances” strategic playbook or not…the fact remains that Big Tobacco is already benefitting greatly from those self-reported (and clinically supported) functional benefits of nicotine. ZYN (owned by Philip Morris International) and its competitive product equivalents have exploded in popularity over the last few years…largely thanks to users on social media platforms talking about how these nicotine pouches suppress their appetite (sounds familiar doesn't it) and cognitive enhancement (which is tied to a newer appeal of modern masculinity). Also, according to Edward Bernays, “people must be trained to desire, to want new things even before the old have been entirely consumed.” Does that mean Big Tobacco really wants to transition away from the old go-to method of selling consumers functionality? I'd consider it unlikely, but that has seemingly opened a nascent segment of functional CPG products called caffeine pouches.
What's really going on today? Discover the trending stories you're not hearing anywhere else: https://rtd.newsThe illegal gold trade in Latin America is now more profitable than cocaine, and it's triggering a global crisis that mainstream media is ignoring. In this video, we expose how drug cartels are moving into illicit gold mining, why Trump is deploying U.S. troops, and how this ties into Venezuela, the Fed, and the global financial system.From cartel operations in Peru to troop deployments across Central America, this is a deep dive into how gold has become the new battlefield. This isn't just about drugs anymore, it's about unregulated wealth, geopolitical power, and the collapse of trust in fiat systems.
This week we got Claude working natively on Windows (yay!) which speeds up development since we're not hitting the filesystem through multiple layers. That meant we also worked on a bunch of little breakouts: the BMP585 protos came in and those worked fine. Plus we knocked out the VEML6046 RGB+IR sensor library (https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_VEML6046) and started work on a few others. It turns out the bq25628e (https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_bq25628e) was not what we wanted in a charger, because ILimit doesn't affect the charge rate, which is like 40mA by default - boo! We'll find another alternative and also try to get back to that bq25798 (https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_bq25798) solar charger shortly. We also worked on the e-Ink bonnet, which worked great as rev A and only needed some pinout swaps - thanks to BlitzCity for updating the CircuitPython-api EPD library (https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_CircuitPython_EPD) to add support for the bigger 7.5" & friends which we verified on Raspberry Pi and also the Particle Tachyon - speaking of which we are getting Blinka support into main for that board! (https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_Blinka/pull/1001) And on The Great Search - 24-bit I2C ADC Chip for RTD sensors #circuitpython #sensorhacks #thegreatsearch
This week we got a request on the forums (https://forums.adafruit.com/viewtopic.php?t=219635) for a way to read PT100/PT1000 RTD sensors over I2C. To be honest, we only really stock the MAX31865 (https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/analog-devices-inc-maxim-integrated/MAX31865ATP/3681476) which is SPI only. Let's find a chip that could do RTD reads over I2C: that would require 24-bit precision, but not necessarily high speed! Also ideally it could do differential reads. See the chosen part on DigiKey https://www.digikey.com/short/q7z2575h #circuitpython #sensorhacks #thegreatsearch
Down to Business English: Business News to Improve your Business English
Once limited to gyms and fitness circles, protein-packed products have gone mainstream. From “proffee” at Starbucks to high-protein rice balls at Japanese convenience stores, protein is everywhere — and the market is booming. In this episode of Down to Business English, Samantha Vega and Skip Montreux explore the rise of the high-protein food market. They discuss why demand for protein is surging, the role of health-conscious consumers and weight-loss medications, and how major brands like Starbucks are repositioning themselves to meet this growing trend. will help you better understand global food trends and improve your business English vocabulary. Key points of their discussion include: Why the high-protein food market is expected to double in size by 2034. How health trends, plant-based diets, and GLP-1 drugs are driving demand. Why high-protein drinks — especially RTD beverages — are the fastest-growing segment. How companies like Starbucks, Peet's Coffee, and Panda Express are adapting their menus. What risks and challenges come with excessive protein consumption and supply chain pressure. Do you like what you hear? Become a D2B Member today for to access to our -- NEW!!!-- interactive audio scripts, PDF Audio Script Library, Bonus Vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information. Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed
Send us a textIn this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Dyanna Durr CVT, Regional Technician Director for VCA's South Atlantic Group. Listen in as she shares her inspiring journey in veterinary medicine, detailing her early fascination with animals, her career progression, and the challenges she has faced along the way. She discusses her role as a regional technician director, the importance of veterinary technicians and assistants and her insights into feline practice. Dyanna also emphasizes the need for regular veterinary care for cats and offers advice on making veterinary visits easier for both cats and their owners. She provides valuable training resources for veterinary associates and concludes with encouraging words for those considering a career in veterinary medicine.For more information about the resources mentioned in this episode, we invite you to check out the following sites: CatFriendly.comFeline Veterinary Medical AssociationDyanna is a Florida native who has actively pursued a career in veterinary medicine from a very young age. Her first opportunity to step into the veterinary world was enrolling in the Veterinary Academy at Tarpon Springs High School. At the age of 16, she got her first job with a small private practice in her hometown. Dyanna's next milestone was pursuing an AS in veterinary medicine from St. Petersburg College and earning her credentials in Florida from the FVMA. Eventually her hometown practice was sold to an aspiring doctor who accomplished two renovations of the original facility and constructed two additional locations in a 10-year period. Dyanna was involved in the development of the facilities, team training, and standardization of policies within those practices. She divided her time as a Lead Technician between all threelocations for five years. Eventually, the opportunity for growth into a supervisor role brought her to VCA Carrollwood Cat hospital in 2017. This was an invaluable experience which helped to support her continued leadership goals. In 2022 Dyanna became the RTD for the Southeast working to support teams in Florida and Georgia. She loves spending quality time with her family which includes husband (and high school sweetheart) Joshua, daughter Fayth, and son Andrew and four purrfect kitties: Vincent Van Gogh, Salvador Dali, Turtle, and Princess.Visit our website: vcavoice.comAll episodes produced by dādy creative
In today's episode of The Art Coaching Club Podcast, we're starting with a solo chat about one of the most overlooked (but powerful) elements of running an art business: intentional packaging. I'll share how great packaging can boost your brand, increase perceived value, and get people talking about your work—plus simple, budget-friendly ideas you can implement right away. Then we shift gears to an inspiring interview with Tiffany Jones, Dallas-based designer and founder of Avenue 8, a super-premium canned cocktail brand shaking up the spirits industry. Tiffany shares how her background in design helped her craft a product that's both beautiful and bold, the moment that sparked the idea, what she uncovered in her deep dive into the RTD market, and what it means to build a women-led company in a male-dominated space.
Points of discussion:1. Are fancifully-named beers Sub Brands? [BBT Newsletter]2. How to scale the "Sub Brand Ladder" (from the Sub Brand Summer Series)3. The role of the parent brand in Brand Architecture [Beyond Beer Handbook]-Learn more at: www.craftbeerrebranded.com / http://www.beyondbeerbook.com-Have a topic or question you'd like us to field on the show? Shoot it our way: hello@cododesign.com-Join 8,000+ food and bev industry pros who are subscribed to the Beer Branding Trends Newsletter (and access all past issues) at: www.beerbrandingtrends.com
Last summer, it was a protein Ice Cream experiential marketing event. And now it's a collaboration with my fellow dessert loving Ohioan Christina Tosi (Founder of Milk Bar). Come on Premier Protein…I'm feeling super left out! BellRing Brands (NYSE: BRBR) is a portfolio that owns a collection of convenient nutrition brands like Premier Protein and Dymatize Nutrition, which was previously wholly-owned by Post Holdings. A fast-paced and busy lifestyle is pushing consumers to switch to quick and healthy meal options. This has resulted in above average categorical growth rates and increased household penetration of RTD protein shakes that promote active lifestyles. Additionally, powders are becoming more mainstream, and category proliferation has created an environment where more consumers are purchasing both every day and performance nutrition positioned protein products at grocery stores and mass retailers. Bellring Brands reported 2025 Q3 net sales of $547.5 million, which was up 6.2% YoY. Premier Protein (~90% of BellRing Brands total revenue) grew 6% YoY, which came from an nearly equal amount of volume growth and price increases. Dymatize Nutrition was up 5.4% YoY, stemming from volume increases within international markets and new product introductions. In response to these elevated sports nutrition competitive threats, BellRing Brands has attempted to invest further into Dymatize brand marketing and restarting product innovation. Though, I'd say neither effort has resulted in meaningful success yet. Moreover, I provide three deep dives into the functional CPG portfolio's "hero SKU families" of Premier Protein RTD protein shakes and Premier Protein and Dymatize protein powders. But my latest first principles thinking content will examine the recent Premier Protein packaging refresh and how the leading protein shake brand (understanding the power of an afternoon sweet treat) has consistently found ways to highlight the versatility of their product that doesn't sacrifice flavor for nutrition. The Premier Protein and Milk Bar menu includes a Blueberry Pancake Super Cookie, Mega Milkshake Caramel Cake, and Power-Packed Tiramisu Truffle. But here's the sad part for me (and many of you too), these decadent protein treats are only available at Milk Bar flagship locations and for delivery in the select markets. And since I currently don't have any business travel planned over the next several weeks to those cities…I'll have to hope they extend this collaboration into packaged goods one day in the future!
Convenience and quality don't always go hand in hand, but Tip Top Cocktails is changing that perception, one perfectly crafted drink at a time. Founded in 2019, Tip Top is an Atlanta-based brand known for its spirit-forward, bar-quality offerings. Childhood friends Yoni Reisman and Neal Cohen launched the company with a simple mission: make great cocktails more accessible, no bartender required. Tip Top's lineup includes time-honored classics like the Old Fashioned, Negroni, and Margarita, as well as modern favorites such as the Paper Plane, Penicillin, and Naked & Famous. Each cocktail is precisely mixed and served in a sleek 100 mL lowball-style can. The products are available in over 25 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., and carried by national retailers such as Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, Gelson's Markets, and Total Wine & More. Amid a rapidly expanding market for RTD cocktails, Tip Top has earned high praise from The New York Times, Food & Wine, and other publications. Perhaps surprisingly, the company hasn't taken any institutional funding to date. In this episode, Yoni and Neal share how an idea sparked on the music festival circuit evolved into a fast-growing brand with national reach. Their journey is a case study in bootstrapping, brand discipline, and building loyalty through an unwavering commitment to quality and customer experience. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Neal Cohen & Yoni Reisman, Co-Founders, Tip Top Cocktails – The co-founders discuss how Tip Top's origins stem from Yoni's time in the music festival scene, recruiting award-winning bartender Miles Macquarrie to help develop the cocktails and how they emphasized authentic, balanced flavors and supported that with retro-inspired branding and educational elements like listing ingredients. Neal and Yoni also talk about Tip Top's collaborations with renowned bartenders such as Sam Ross and Joaquín Simó and how it reinforced the brand's credibility and dedication to cocktail culture. They also explain how Tip Top has relied on grassroots marketing, standout packaging, and word-of-mouth to build its brand, with its 100 mL can seen as both stylish and practical and how the company has earned respect within the hospitality industry and among professional bartenders. They explain why they continue to personally taste each batch of cocktails and have scrapped full runs when standards weren't met and how “building a brand people would truly miss” if it left the market is their North Star. Brands in this episode: Tip Top Cocktails, Straightaway Cocktails, Post Meridiem
In a week replete with San Diego Comic Con, a semi-invigorated BBC Shop, and a SDCC-adjacent UNIT Black Archive pop-up, you would think there would be more Doctor Who news to cogitate about this week, but you would in fact be wrong! However a new multi-media extravaganza featuring the Fugitive Doctor (hooray!) named “Circuit Breaker” (meh?) has been announced, to follow up the thundering success of Time Lord Victorious and Doom's Day. Are the Three Who Rule excited at this chance to read, listen and click in 2026? We'll see! Plus tales of Big Finish, BFI screenings, a new Terrance Dicks biography, and an intervention as Steven's latest descent into madness focused on spiral staircases! Links: Support Radio Free Skaro on Patreon New mixed-media adventure ‘Doctor Who: Circuit Breaker' coming to the Whoniverse in 2026 Doctor Who Black Archive site BBC Shop now live Terror of the Zygons and Worlds Within – The Life of Ian Marter BFI screening on September 20 Terrance Dicks biography by Simon Guerrier coming in 2026 New Target novelizations announced for March 2026 Big Finish: The Worlds of Doctor Who – Smith and Sullivan, Reunited available now RTD on David Walliams & Matt Lucas's podcast, Making a Scene Coming Soon: The Comics Code podcast by Graeme Burk
How did GNGR Labs' organic, cold-pressed wellness shots become a staple in New York City bodegas and land nationwide distribution at Wegmans? Founder Namik Soltan shares a story powered by purpose, product and unrelenting persistence. The hosts also unpack PepsiCo's unexpected – and gutsy – announcement and explore how excellence fueled Tia Lupita's acquisition. Show notes: 0:35: Shot Hoarders. Hey, Pepsi. You Forget Something? Honoring Tia. Chomping At The Bit. Good Sips. -The hosts open by heaping praise on GNGR Labs' shots, followed by a few laughs and questions about Mike's recent “pen vacation.” The conversation pivots to PepsiCo, earning both some head-scratching and applause for its newly announced prebiotic sub-line under the flagship Pepsi brand. Ray then highlights Coca-Cola's news of a new cola sub-line made with real sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup. Mike puts the spotlight on Feisty, a UK-based protein soda brand, before the team celebrates Vilore Foods' acquisition of Tia Lupita. They commend founder Hector Saldivar for building a culturally authentic and better-for-you Mexican food brand from the ground up. Melissa teases an upcoming Nombase Podcast interview with Chomps' head of merchandising, while Ray announces a live conversation with Chomps CEO Rashid Ali, set for Taste Radio's Chicago meetup on August 14. Jacqui shares her take on Fermenteria's hard water kefir, Mike highlights Kate Farms' high-protein shakes and Corpse Reviver's electrolyte tea, and Melissa rounds things out by introducing a rare and intriguing Japanese plum vinegar. 35:30: Interview: Namik Soltan, Founder & CEO, GNGR Labs – Namik talks about the origins of GNGR Labs spicy ginger shots, which he launched in 2020 at the outset of the pandemic and after a failed attempt at a previous beverage brand. He discusses how a focus on high-quality, undiluted ingredients, potent flavor and authenticity helped them stand out in a crowded market. Namik also explains how he recruited a team to help him initially self-distribute across New York City and emphasized the importance of timing and forming direct relationships with store owners. He also talks about the decision to launch shelf-stable RTD cans and why he loves working with Wegmans even though merchandising is somewhat of a challenge. Namik also explains that while not every partnership worked out, his brand's growth has been organic and steady, driven by innovation and a deep understanding of the New York retail landscape. Brands in this episode: GNGR Labs, Whims, Ayo Foods, Chomps, Goodmellow, Plift, Pepsi, Poppi, Coca-Cola, Squirt, Feisty Soda, Trip Drinks, La Costeña, Jumex, Totis, Justin's, Lily's, Fermenteria, Le Seltzer, Kate Farms, Corpse Reviver, Koyo Foods, Eden Foods