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Let's talk about how the most intriguing “active nutrition” brand portfolio isn't controlled by some legacy supplement company. Instead, in just two short years, Keurig Dr Pepper (NASDAQ: KDP) went from getting its categorical butt kicked in the “three-headed monster” of active nutrition beverages (aka energy drinks, sports drinks, and protein shakes) to now controlling the most intriguing “active nutrition” brand portfolio by (1) acquiring a large stake in the maker of C4 Energy, (2) strategically partnering with Electrolit and Black Rifle Coffee, (3) acquiring GHOST, and (4) getting access to Bloom Nutrition through a proxy investment by Nutrabolt. And this positive momentum is most evident within the energy drinks market, as the four brands controlled by KDP (e.g. C4 Energy, GHOST Energy, Bloom Sparkling Energy, and Black Rifle energy drinks) now combine to represent over $1 billion in annual run rate net sales…and are scaling rapidly. And in in aggregate…the KDP energy drink portfolio grew about one percentage point of share in 2025 thus far. And after experiencing more than 30% YoY retail sales growth in Q2, KDP holds a 7% share in the U.S. energy drinks market…which only trails the brand portfolio of Monster Beverage, Red Bull, and expanded Celsius Holdings brand portfolio. But having near-term aspirations of hitting a double-digit share position within the fast-growing $26 billion U.S. energy drinks market, KDP must surgically allocate meaningful resources to ensure (1) brand distinction between GHOST and C4 remains mission-critical and (2) Bloom Sparkling Energy gets ample support throughout its scaling phase. Then, in terms of hydration…Electrolit is currently the fastest-growing scaled brand and fourth-largest brand overall in the sports drink category. Benefitting from strong velocities, DSD enabled distribution expansion, and product innovation…Electrolit experienced retail sales growth over 30% YoY and gained more than 1.5 points of market share in Q2. And though I'd argue Electrolit is only scratching the surface of its long-term potential in the U.S. market, the KDP hydration portfolio also contains GHOST. Also, while these “enhanced waters” aren't technically included within this analysis…I'd be silly to not mention the huge rebound of the Bai brand, which has been powered recently in part by the “Sydney Sweeney effect.” KDP also recently acquired Dyla Brands, a manufacturer of powdered drink mixes and liquid water enhancers that should help those active nutrition brands build individual serving stick pack format presence in additional functional beverage categories. And then finally, I'll breakdown the KDP protein beverages platform…which is undoubtedly their laggard within the “three-headed categorical monster” of active nutrition beverages. Yet, in saying that…it might also be the category that sees the most upcoming “build, acquire, and/or partner” business activity. GHOST could (and should) look at relaunching its RTD protein beverages, C4 was rumored to be working on RTD protein beverages leveraging its Hershey's licensing partnership, and Bloom Nutrition could easily extend into RTD protein beverages (giving its female customers a fun mainstream clear whey innovation). But by controlling an intriguing brand portfolio and actively growing its go-to-market prowess and commercial playbook, I believe KDP is well-positioned to continue winning in this important “active nutrition” beverages space.
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
Points of discussion:1. Branding Comma, a mindful cannabis beer [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
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
Send us a textOn the latest Too Hot For TV Dylan is joined by Martin Parsons to talk about two mid 00's Big Finish stories, the Seventh Doctor story 'House of Blue Fire' and the Fifth Doctor story 'The Emerald Tiger' and as always they answer the burning questions: What happens when you take RTD to Hollywood?Who is Jen ?Can you love threads?
It's the middle of another week…and as Chris Williamson just discussed recently, I'm feeling that “productivity debt” weighing on me. Yet, I'm still sitting here quite certain that I can predict what's next for Neutonic...the productivity CPG brand that he's building with James Smith (and Shan Hanif). But that “vague sense of falling behind” can come in many shapes and sizes. In fact, I'm feeling that productivity debt right now…after taking forever (especially for internet standards) to meaningfully comment on a specific piece of business news involving a brand operating within my deep domain expertise, which is (as many of you know already) the intersecting categories of functional foods, functional beverages, and nutritional supplements. So, while I certainly read a few of those articles that began circulating the interwebs earlier this month about Neutonic raising just over $3 million…all that initial dynamic fascination and pattern deconstruction (in an attempt to) “see around the corner” didn't materialize into a formal output until now. But don't fret, this extra “think time” invariably led to the type of compelling insights you won't find anyone else. In November 2023, Neutonic initially launching one flavor of what it dubbed “the world's first productivity drink,” quickly selling out all inventory online. And this positive commercial result was largely the result of Neutonic possessing two powerful “creators turned CPG founders” with Modern Wisdom podcast host Chris Williamson and fitness YouTuber James Smith. And not to sound like a broken record at this point…but I'm a longtime believer that the most popular creators of today can become the biggest CPG brands of tomorrow. But speaking of all that…since the initial launch, Neutonic has sold over 3 million cans of its productivity drink thus far. And within the U.S. and UK markets combined, deploying a sales channel strategy prioritizing DTC, Amazon, and TikTok shop…Neutonic reported generating more than $10 million in revenue. But while sales activity is still concentrated on RTD productivity beverages…the product line has expanded to include non-caffeinated “focus” powder sticks and non-caffeinated “brain” capsules, with all science-backed formulations sharing the same nucleus of utilizing the optimal clinical dose of Cognizin citicoline. But it's pretty obvious that Neutonic has outsized ambitions, but a few million dollars of outside capital isn't going to get a relatively unknown beverage brand, positioned within a nascent energy drink subcategory…considerable traction within certain U.S. sales channels (like convenience). So, my latest first principles thinking content piece will explore what Neutonic needs to achieve if it wants to attract strategic buyers like Nutrabolt (C4 Energy).
What's really going on today? Discover the trending stories you're not hearing anywhere else: http://rtd.news
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 looks at, hopefully for the final time, the RTD part 1 and 2 eras. We discuss the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of both RTD eras, with an emphasis on the 2nd era. Welcome and Synopsis to EP 381 - 00:00:00 Retrospective on RTD Part 1 era - 00:01:47 Looking at RTD Part 2 era - 00:11:05 The Good, The Bad, The Ugly: General Consensus on RTD2 - 00:26:56 Contact Info & Copyright - 00:37:59 Articles Referenced in this episode are: Stay tuned for more Doctor Who goodness, including monthly Big Finish reviews, audio commentary, retro-reviews, the DWAP "Rassilon Seal of Approval" and beyond!
What happens when a high-profile protein bar brand suddenly dives into frozen seafood? Naturally, the industry takes notice—and chaos ensues. In this episode, the hosts unpack David's unexpected launch of raw frozen cod, a move that seems both strategic and defiant, sparking intense debate across the CPG world. They also delve into the debut of Love Potion, a new ready-to-drink espresso martini from “Bachelor in Paradise” alum Justin Glaze, exploring what it reveals about the saturated, and increasingly unpredictable, landscape of celebrity-backed beverages. Show notes: 0:35: Marion Pen? A Slippery Stunt? Wrong Place, Wrong Time? Gold & Pecans. Strawberry Salt! – Mike is OOO, so naturally the hosts wonder if he's back in the slammer. They dive into David's introduction of a new raw, frozen cod product and whether it's a tongue-in-cheek response to critics of processed foods or a genuine product extension. The team highlights upcoming Taste Radio meetups in Chicago, San Diego, San Francisco, and London, inviting listeners to connect in person. Ray voices his frustration over the glut of RTD espresso martinis flooding the market, especially a new launch from a reality TV star. The hosts question the staying power of yet another celebrity-backed booze brand, while John shares insights on how emerging products can rise above the noise. Ray also unboxes a quirky PR gift from Snickers and samples Jacobsen Salt Co.'s new Oishii strawberry-infused salt. Meanwhile, Jacqui and John spotlight Bao Blast, a new baobab fruit juice drink, and Ray encourages entrepreneurs to send in product samples for a shot at being featured in future episodes. Brands in this episode: David, Love Potion, La Colombe, Justin's, Gigantic, Harken Sweets, Snickers, Maldon, Jacoben's Salt Co., Oishii, Fly By Jing, Bao Blast, Diet Coke
The siren call of a BuzzBall is hard to ignore. The neon sphere at your checkout counter is the $5 (or less) cocktail fueling a $500 million empire. In 2024, RTD sales spiked 16.5% while other booze categories stayed flat, and they show no signs of slowing down. In the wine world, XXL, the so-called “Moscato without manners” pushes the same boundary with candy-sweet flavors and 15–20% ABV, flipping the script on the sober-curious trend. In this episode, resident spirits expert Kara Newman breaks down what's driving the RTD boom, with a curated BuzzBallz tasting. Writer-at-large Reggie Solomon brings us a Wine Enthusiast first: a tasting note for BlowPop, plus tips for enjoying XXL—yes, even over your salad. Is there a guest you want us to interview? A topic you want us to cover? We want to hear from you! Email us at podcast@wineenthusiast.net. Remember to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. Go to WineEnthusiast.com for the latest beverage industry coverage and all the tools you need to bring your love of wine to life. And wait, there's more! Get over 70% OFF the original cover price by subscribing to Wine Enthusiast magazine today! FOLLOW US: TikTok: @wineenthusiast Instagram: @wineenthusiast Facebook: @WineEnthusiast X: @WineEnthusiast
Adam, Joanna, and Zach respond to a listener query about the fact that the best-selling RTDs do not include well-known spirits brands, and why the RTDs that do have largely struggled to find an audience. Is it a price issue? Do the marketing teams with those brands not know what do to with an RTD? Or is it just that there aren't enough use cases to make the drinks work. Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review VinePair on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your episodes, and send any questions, comments, critiques, or suggestions to podcast@vinepair.com. Thanks for listening, and be well.Zach is drinking: Hot Yonder Summer from Yonder CiderJoanna is drinking: Château Minuty Rose et OrAdam is drinking: Shaken Gin MartinisInstagram: @adamteeter, @jcsciarrino, @zgeballe, @vinepair Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What's the biggest flop in the U.S. energy drinks market over the last 5-7 years? I'm sure many will yell out “Coca-Cola Energy,” which could very well be the correct answer…mostly because The Coca-Cola Company bastardized its single most important brand asset. But what about Mountain Dew Rise Energy? For me, it's hard not imagining what “could have been” if the startup RTD coffee brand RISE Brewing didn't file a trademark infringement lawsuit against PepsiCo a few months after the product launch. If you remember in early 2021, Lebron James had just left Coca-Cola for PepsiCo…and quickly became the face of Mountain Dew Rise Energy. But after a judge issued a preliminary injunction barring PepsiCo from using the word “Rise,” prompting a name change to Mountain Dew Energy…Lebron James got shifted into repping the LifeWTR brand.
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, hosts Brett and Liam come together for the part 2 discussion of Doctor Who Season 2 and RTD era 2. The podcast concludes with a look at Big Finish news and thoughts. Welcome and Synopsis to EP 380 - 00:00:00 A Special Dedication to Alex - 00:01:14 Can you overlook SFX if Writing is Good? - 00:02:32 Blu-ray Sales and DW Blu-ray Talk - 00:11:35 RTD's Last DWM Letter - 00:25:03 BBC Receives Complaints about DW Finale - 00:41:30 Disney Issues Stalls DW Future? - 00:50:49 Latest Big FInish News and Talk - 00:56:30 Contact Info & Copyright - 01:36:35 Articles Referenced in this episode are: Screen Rant: https://screenrant.com/doctor-who-stories-not-tv-great/ Stay tuned for more Doctor Who goodness, including monthly Big Finish reviews, audio commentary, retro-reviews, the DWAP "Rassilon Seal of Approval" and beyond!
The Marrieds are back to tentatively take a look at the start of the 2-part finale. They didn't have high hopes for a banger of an RTD finale, but maybe they were surprised?
With protein becoming a kind of "holy water" that instantly anoints any food or beverage with a health halo…it was only a matter of time before it converged with carbonated soft drinks, right? But what if I told you that I've been trying to make protein soda a “billion-dollar idea” since 2016? Originally approached by the patent holder almost a decade ago, my attempts at influencing large beverage portfolios went nowhere fast. And it makes sense in hindsight…as within a low household penetration beverage category (like protein drinks), market participants (back then) obviously wanted to bring in new buyers, but the more meaningful solved challenge involved expanding distribution. Even a few years later, within content basically no one watched…I started mentioning how PepsiCo should make “protein dirty sodas” but letting Muscle Milk leverage its carbonated soft drinks flavor IP. But fast forward another few years…protein is winning in most places across the grocery store, accessibility of protein RTD beverages has become almost ubiquitous within the market, and maybe most importantly the “dirty soda” movement exploded thanks to TikTok. And before you think I'm humbly bragging about my place within the protein soda category creation, one that will likely never make the future Wikipedia page…just know that I wholeheartedly believe being right too early is indistinguishable from being wrong! Instead, I provided that quick introductory story to set the stage for our conversation with the CEO of Don't Quit, Mark French, who's new protein soda is launching nationwide in Walmart, Albertsons, CVS, and others this month. And alongside this refreshed strategic focus of delivering healthier, clean, great tasting protein in a variety of different formats…we got an insightfully diverse POV on the functional beverage marketplace from Chris Van Dusen, a private equity group Senior Partner involved in delivering capital solutions for late-stage startup and growth companies like Don't Quit. Follow the Pour Decisions Podcast!Also, an extra special thanks to Cognizin, for not only being the Title Sponsor of The Beverage Forum 2025...but supporting this awesome piece of content!
The verdict is in and let's be honest, the justice system is a hot mess. Also, we are tired of the N-Word Pass!! Huge shoutout to Chris Laflare and from Was It Good Though Podcast, Jazz and Jason for joining us. Become a Habitual Ish Talker and follow us on The App Formally Known As Twitter: twitter.com/TalkinIsh_PodJoin in on the conversation! E-Mail us at talkinishpod@gmail.comListen to the audio version: https://linktr.ee/TalkinIshPod00:00 - Intro/Idle Chit Chat08:50 - Viewer Comments 26:24 - RTD 1: Diddy and the Verdict of Discontent 1:17:11 - RTD 2: Can We Stop With Giving The N-Word Pass?!2:09:46 - Wrap It Up, YO!!! (Closing)
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
The Doctor goes home to Lagos, Nigeria, and finds themself trapped in a barbershop. In a powerful script by Inua Ellams, Ncuti Gatwa's portrayal of the Doctor is equalled by Ariyon Bakare as the Barber. There's much to like in this story, but Jo Martin was underused in her cameo — RTD, just give Martin her own series already. We thought shoehorning in Mrs Flood in this story was a tad lame. We'd have enjoyed seeing her wandering the Lagos marketplace ala Marcus Brody (Denholm Elliot) in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Also, we missed Varada Sethu as Belinda, but aside from a few grumbles, we quite liked this episode. Opening and closing music is "Aké" by Blick Bassy. We recorded this episode on 13 May 2025.
RTD says sci-fi is too "testosterone-y" and tried to steer away from that with his new version of Doctor Who. Um, nobody EVER thought of ANY Doctor as a dude bro. Watch this podcast episode on YouTube and all major podcast hosts including Spotify. CLOWNFISH TV is an independent, opinionated news and commentary podcast that covers Entertainment and Tech from a consumer's point of view. We talk about Gaming, Comics, Anime, TV, Movies, Animation and more. Hosted by Kneon and Geeky Sparkles. D/REZZED News covers Pixels, Pop Culture, and the Paranormal! We're an independent, opinionated entertainment news blog covering Video Games, Tech, Comics, Movies, Anime, High Strangeness, and more. As part of Clownfish TV, we strive to be balanced, based, and apolitical. Get more news, views and reviews on Clownfish TV News - https://news.clownfishtv.com/ On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/ClownfishTV On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4Tu83D1NcCmh7K1zHIedvg On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/clownfish-tv-audio-edition/id1726838629
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, hosts Brett and Liam come together to discuss and breakdown Doctor Who and RTD2 Season 2 in its entirity. Viewership figures are discussed as well as our final thoughts and a tease to the next podcast regarding the future of Doctor Who and RTD with respects to the series. Welcome and Synopsis to EP 379 - 00:00:00 Set-Up to Our Review of Season 2 - 00:02:22 Viewing Figures and Doctor Who - 00:06:24 Doctor Who Season & RTD Part 2 Review - 00:15:43 Contact Info & Copyright - 02:03:54 Articles Referenced in this episode are: Screen Rant: https://screenrant.com/doctor-who-stories-not-tv-great/ Stay tuned for more Doctor Who goodness, including monthly Big Finish reviews, audio commentary, retro-reviews, the DWAP "Rassilon Seal of Approval" and beyond!
In this episode of Barrel Room Chronicles, host Kerry Moynahan explores two unique sides of the American spirits revolution—one driven by finance, the other by flavor.First, Kerry sits down with Ryan LaValle and Hunter Robillard, of ASM Capital Partners, a venture firm dedicated to fueling the future of American Single Malt whiskey. From Hunter's early days helping his father create a maple-infused whiskey brand to Ryan's transition from Wall Street to whiskey investment, this duo is helping bridge the gap between distilleries and capital. They discuss how whiskey becomes an asset class, what makes American Single Malt such a compelling category, and how ASM is empowering distilleries to grow through thoughtful investment and strategic support.Then, in Tavern Talk Kerry speaks with Neal Cohen, co-founder of Tip Top Proper Cocktails. From their humble beginnings inspired by the music festival circuit to landing on Delta Airlines, Tip Top is redefining what ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails can be. Neal walks us through their whiskey-forward offerings—from their high-rye bourbon Old Fashioned to their award-winning Penicillin—and shares how they've built a brand rooted in balance, convenience, and craft.Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast, an investor, or just someone curious about the next frontier in spirits, this episode pours you a full measure of insight and inspiration.
In this episode of Bourbon Lens, Jake and Scott are joined by world-renowned bartender and cocktail pioneer Charles Joly. A James Beard Award-winning mixologist and co-founder of Crafthouse Cocktails, Charles brings decades of experience to the table, from co-creating The Aviary in Chicago to elevating the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail game. We dive into: Cocktail fundamentals for home bartenders Summer cocktail ideas to beat the heat Charles' thoughts on classic vs. contemporary recipes The story behind Crafthouse Cocktails and their recent launch onboard United Airlines flights Whether you're a bourbon purist, a curious home mixologist, or someone reaching for convenience without compromise, this episode offers insights and tips straight from one of the most respected voices in the spirits world. Learn More by Visiting CrafthouseCocktails.com for more on Charles' RTD line, or follow him @CharlesJoly on social. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy what you hear, we'd love for you to leave us a review. We're incredibly grateful for your continued support over the past six years. A special thank you goes out to our amazing community of Patreon supporters—your support helps keep Bourbon Lens going strong! If you're enjoying the podcast, consider leaving a 5-star rating, writing a quick review, and sharing the show with a fellow bourbon enthusiast. You can follow us @BourbonLens on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Want to go a step further? Support us on Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Bourbon Lens swag, access to our Tasting Club, and more. Have questions, feedback, or guest suggestions? Drop us a line at Info@BourbonLens.com. Explore BourbonLens.com for blog posts, the latest whiskey news, our full podcast archive, and detailed whiskey reviews. Cheers, Scott & Jake Bourbon Lens
Having made a series of short hot take episodes on Season 2 of Doctor Who earlier this year, tonight we revisit Ncuti Gatwa's final season with our ultimate cold take on it all, including tons of listener feedback! Before then, our usual news and short topics segments, including CBeebies looking for its own Doctor Who series and RTD giving up his DWM column. The Robot Revolution Lux The Well Lucky Day The Story and the Engine The Interstellar Song Contest Wish World The Reality War Contact us: X / Twitter: @theDWshow Bluesky: @thedwshow.net Facebook: facebook.com/theDWshow Email: hello@theDWshow.net
Mike shows up to clown the RTD about racist music venues.
Send us a text"Sexy Doctors"Mark and Ben(!) invite longtime friend of the show Richie Morgan to submit his five choices for the tinsel tunnel. While Richie insists he's not come to bury RTD, many of his choices force the boys to consider what has and hasn't worked over the past three years. They also force this Timelash trio to ponder the following questions:Why is Russell T Davies like Kim Jong Un?Who is the Scottish goblin?Why should Children in Need give back the money that was raised by Time Crash?You can listen to I Hate Doctor Who here, and their live show will broadcast on July 2nd on YouTube. Support the showFollow us on TwitterLike us on FacebookBuy us a pint
When life throws you lemons, make a honey-sweetened cocktail. That's essentially what Jack Espy did when the pandemic erased his real estate finance job offer right after graduating from USC in 2020. Rather than despairing, Jack asked himself a simple yet profound question: "What if it did work?"This entrepreneurial spark led Jack to transform his passion for mixology into Spirited Hive, a rapidly growing canned cocktail company that uses honey as its distinctive sweetener. Jack's timing couldn't have been better – he recognized the emerging "better-for-you" category in the beverage alcohol space before it became mainstream, positioning his brand perfectly as consumers increasingly sought quality ingredients even in their alcoholic beverages. Within just a few years, Spirited Hive secured partnerships with major sports teams and expanded across multiple states, becoming the official RTD partner for venues nationwide.But Jack's vision doesn't stop there. He's now launching Strive, a non-alcoholic functional beverage designed to support health and wellness while providing hydration through a delicious soda alternative. By housing both brands under one parent company, Jack has created an efficient business structure that allows for shared resources while maintaining distinct brand identities targeting different consumer needs. His strategic approach to market entry – focusing initially on Nashville, San Diego, and South Florida before expanding – demonstrates his thoughtful growth mindset.What makes Jack's story particularly compelling is his authenticity as a founder. In an era when celebrity-backed beverage brands are becoming increasingly common, Jack represents a new wave of founder-led brands built on genuine stories and passion. His journey reminds us that sometimes life's unexpected detours lead to our greatest opportunities – if only we have the courage to ask, "What if it did work?" and take that first step. Follow Jack's journey and try these innovative beverages for yourself at spiritedhive.com and strivesoda.com.Join the What if it Did Work movement on FacebookGet the Book!www.omarmedrano.comwww.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min
Points of discussion:1. Can you Line Extend to a different style? - [ 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
@costco @miracle_seltzer #rtd #hardseltzer #rtdvodka #radioshow #podcast
Pals is the pastel-coloured RTD that somehow made ready-to-drink drinks cool for the first time. But it wasn't always assured to be a success, in fact, it started with a wine brand that was very hard to make a business from, a lot of learning, and a sense that there had to be a better way. This week on Business is Boring, we sit down with Nick Marshall and Mat Croad, two of the co-founders of Pals, to unpack how they turned an overlooked, over-sugared category into a cultural icon. We go deep on what it takes to build a brand people love, how they've resisted the typical “grow fast, sell out” script, and why category creation is the new brand advantage.From first sell-outs in the Mount, to Halloween costumes and B Corp ambitions—this one's a masterclass in modern brand building, from two pals who just knew there had to be a better way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you enjoy baseless speculation about the future of Doctor Who, The War Between the Land and the Sea, RTD's career prospects, and most importantly, musings about Edmonton AM radio frequencies past and present, then this episode of Radio Free Skaro is for you (you sicko)! Plus we cover a new official Doctor Who quiz book from Beth Axford and “The Moon Cruise” by Esmie-Jikiemi-Pearson, some Steven Taylor Big Finish goodness, Steven's recent podcast promiscuity and the second part of our Classic Series Commentary for “The Visitation”! Links: Support Radio Free Skaro on Patreon Will The War Between The Land and The Sea all drop at once on iPlayer and Disney+? Doctor Who Magazine 618 released RTD's column from DWM 618 The Fourteenth Doctor and the Meep action figure set now available The Official Doctor Who Quiz Book by Beth Axford coming Sep 2025 New Fifteenth Doctor and Belinda novel ‘The Moon Cruise' by Esmie Jikiemi-Pearson coming in Nov 2025 Big Finish released two new audiobooks read by Peter Purves to celebrate 60 years of Steven Taylor Doctor Who Season 1 Blu-Ray releasing Tuesday in North America Doctor Who The War Games in Colour releasing Tuesday in North America Steven on The Incomparable Doctor Who Season 2 wrap-up Steven on the Strangers in Space Doctor Who news update episode Commentary: The Visitation Part Two
RTD has to know that Doctor Who is definitely DONE for now, right? He keeps playing coy with the media, but reading between the line -- a "haitus" is incoming. Watch this podcast episode on YouTube and all major podcast hosts including Spotify. CLOWNFISH TV is an independent, opinionated news and commentary podcast that covers Entertainment and Tech from a consumer's point of view. We talk about Gaming, Comics, Anime, TV, Movies, Animation and more. Hosted by Kneon and Geeky Sparkles. D/REZZED News covers Pixels, Pop Culture, and the Paranormal! We're an independent, opinionated entertainment news blog covering Video Games, Tech, Comics, Movies, Anime, High Strangeness, and more. As part of Clownfish TV, we strive to be balanced, based, and apolitical. Get more news, views and reviews on Clownfish TV News - https://news.clownfishtv.com/ On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/ClownfishTV On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4Tu83D1NcCmh7K1zHIedvg On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/clownfish-tv-audio-edition/id1726838629
There's new stirrings in the world of Doctor Who production, one being an official BBC search for new producers of an new animated Doctor Who series for Time Tots on CBeebies, and a much more tenuous rumour about discontent between Russell T Davies, a potential streaming suitor, and a push for a grittier, aged-up series. Join the Three Who Rule who cogitate on the possibilities of Doctor Who's future, along with Big Finish news, the improbable return of 80s laff-fest Spaceballs, and Part One of our Classic Series Commentary for The Visitation! Links: Support Radio Free Skaro on Patreon Doctor Who – The TARDIS is set to land on CBeebies Doctor Who pre-school animation: invitation to pitch Doctor Who Season 2 coming August 18 to DVD, Blu-ray and Steelbook (UK) Report: BBC and RTD at ddds with potential new Doctor Who partner Excerpt from the new Fifteenth Doctor novel ‘Shirley Jackson and the Chaos Box', available now Big Finish Fourth Doctor Adventures: The Last Queen of the Nile, due Sep 2025 What if the Classic Doctors Regenerated like Modern Day Doctors? by Rob Ritchie Spaceballs 2 announcement Pik-Sen Lim died Commentary: The Visitation Part One
The last episode of season two has aired and been reviewed, which means it's time for the wrap-up episode! Kat, Liz, and Tansy have gathered to give their opinion on Ncuti's time as the Doctor, the wonderful companion Belinda Chandra, and create their wishlists for the future of Doctor Who. As for the future of Verity! the podcast is taking a break for now, but we'll let you know what's next as soon as we know. Lynne and Erika couldn't make the episode, but they've given their Doctor Who future wishlists: Erika's Wishlist: 1. I want MORE WRITERS! My favourite eps have been the non-RTD eps, and I would like more of those (preferably from a very diverse set of writers). 2. I want new blood at the helm -- someone who grew up on the modern series not the classic series. And for the love of Susan, not a white dude, please. 3. Speaking of Susan, I'd like Carole Ann Ford to get an actual, proper appearance that genuinely works and isn't weird nonsense. (Yes, I'm referring to both her onscreen appearances and the rumours of what was supposed to happen before the rewrites. I think it's all nonsense.) Lynne's Wishlist: 1. I wish that the BBC would openly recognize Doctor Who as a unique and wonderful thing that only the BBC could have created and be proud of it instead of treating it more often than not as something they grudgingly tolerate. 2. I wish for a sufficient number of well-crafted episodes to directly match up with the time and money that are available to create them. 3. I wish for more bold and inclusive storytelling. This season felt like Doctor Who was starting to find its groove again, and I would hate to lose that momentum. 4. BRING BACK RIVER SONG! Dearest listener, what does your wishlist for Doctor Who look like? What have we missed in our reviews? Leave us a comment or join the discussion on Instagram and Bluesky. Listen to Liz (and Paul's) podcast Telefantasy Time Jump! ^K
Points of discussion:—Read the 2025 Beer Branding Trends Report here: https://cododesign.com/2025-beer-branding-trends-review/—Q1: How often do you think a brewery should be refreshing its packaging? You said every four or five years in the article, but what if things are going well by that time? Does it still make sense to refresh your packaging if sales are strong and you're happy with how everything looks?Q2: You wrote about flat sales as a possible reason for a brand or package refresh, but what if your sales are in a state of rapid decline, say, 10 to 12% down each year since 2022?Q3: Is there a way to win in the lager segment today? It seems like Montucky and Garage Beer are so dominant that even larger craft breweries are behind the power curve. Is it worth it for a smaller brewery to attempt to play in this space right now?Q4: Thanks for including the Babe-centric thought here. This is something our (mostly female) marketing team has discussed a lot over the last year. Similar to your take, we're not offended, but do wonder if the type of person that this resonates with is even be a craft beer drinker at all?Q5: What are your thoughts on the “bifurcation” trend. This looks great, but I see it everywhere. How do you guys handle it when a look like that makes sense for a brewery, but is super common in their market?Q6: What role do you see for Ai tools like Canva or Midjourney at smaller breweries with limited resources? Is this a great asset for them, or a major threat for in-house designers? Or, both? And maybe a related — or a bonus question? — what impact do you think this will have on the design industry?-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
Welcome to Don't Read the Comments, a podcast where we ignore the show's title and actually read online comments relating to something going on in the world of Doctor Who. Tonight, Rob's on Reddit to read the comments and has found a post from a fan who thinks it's time for RTD to move on. How will other fans respond? Tune in, find out. Contact us: X / Twitter: @theDWshow Bluesky: @thedwshow.net Facebook: facebook.com/theDWshow Email: hello@theDWshow.net
Are they breakout stars or just... confusing? Pizza wine, salmon jerky, kava & mushroom-infused drinks, Gen Z-inspired peanut butter and “cheezy” puff snacks. Why we're thumbs up – or down – on buzzworthy new concepts in CPG. This episode also spotlights two remarkable women on a mission to elevate the way we eat: Holly Arbuckle of Singing Pastures and Swati Elavia of Monsoon Kitchens. Show notes: 0:35: Last Call. Coffee Comeback? Mo' Money For David & Moment. Yes, No, Ugh? Good Data. – BevNET Live Summer 2025 is days away. Do you have your ticket? John thinks RTD coffee is back on track, but why? Ray highlights David's $75M haul and purchase of a key supplier, as well as Moment's new $5M round. What's trending in Spate's Q2 food & beverage data? Insiders already know. It's a simple yes or no question, but we can't help ourselves when it comes to new and innovative products. 39:06: Interview: Holly Arbuckle, CEO, Singing Pastures – Fresh off her win at Naturally New England's Naturally Rising pitch competition, Holly shares the story behind Singing Pastures, a premium brand of fermented, slow-smoked meat sticks rooted in regenerative farming practices. She talks about her agricultural roots, the value of nutrient-dense food, and her vision for a more sustainable meat industry. 52:08: Interview: Swati Elavia, President, Monsoon Kitchens – A nutritionist with a deep love for Indian cuisine, Swati discusses Monsoon Kitchens' journey from serving institutions to launching retail products. She reflects on the challenges of scaling, the importance of staying true to culinary traditions, and her commitment to offering clean-ingredient Indian meals. Brands in this episode: Singing Pastures, Monsoon Kitchens, Starbucks, David, Moment, Brightland, Yellowtail, Mello, Bashi, One Trick Pony, Hippeas, Like Air, IQ Bar
The RTD cocktail segment has experienced massive success in recent years, helped by its convenient format and the rise of the at-home cocktail occasion during the “Great Shutdown” era. But while the RTD cocktail market has seen an abundance of new entrants, as it predictably followed my CPG industry adage that “strong demand growth breeds intense commercialization activity,” there have been smarter and more effective launches as the category matures and has a clearer view of the consumer. And it appears these RTD cocktail drinkers are selecting health-conscious products with premium ingredients and flavorful options…oftentimes seeking a fun, refreshing taste of their childhood with an adult beverage spin. Moreover, A LOT of categorical success is in recreating or reimagining something where there's already consumer behavior. And that was a key motivating factor behind Adam Kost creating Dirty Shirley, a nostalgic yet boozy twist to the classic Shirley Temple beverage we've likely all enjoyed growing up. Last year, Dirty Shirley, which contains organic cherry juice, natural flavors, and super premium vodka, grew almost 1000% YoY. Yet, as you'll hear in our conversation, Dirty Shirley is only getting started by continuing to thoughtfully expand markets and creating a variety of powerful strategic retail and brand partnerships. Subscribe = Pour Decisions Podcast Also, an extra special thanks to Cognizin for not only being the Title Sponsor of The Beverage Forum 2025...but supporting this awesome piece of content!
In this episode of the Who's He? Podcast.... Review - Wish World and The Reality War Phil and Paul return for the last time this season and pull a double shift with their in depth look at Wish World and The Reality War, the season finale of Doctor Who. With a surprise cameo and THAT regeneration, months of speculation came to and end as we said goodbye to Ncuti Gatwa. But did RTD stick the landing? You can currently find us on X, Threads, Mastodon, Bluesky and Facebook. Don't miss an episode by subscribing to our show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts, plus many other podcatchers of your choice.
It was just announced that David closed a $75 million Series A funding round…valuing the 8-month-old startup at $725 million. Launched the same exact day as my previous content with David Co-Founder (and CEO) Peter Rahal went live in September 2024, David's current valuation has already surpassed his first protein bar exit, which involved Kellogg's acquiring RXBAR for $600 million in 2017. But David will obviously use the investment to scale manufacturing, accelerate product development, and expand inventory to meet surging demand. Moreover, in an effort to strengthen its ability to scale…David acquired Epogee, the food technology firm behind EPG, a plant-based fat alternative that significantly reduces calories and fat without compromising taste or texture. And at first glance, it might seem like an odd use of capital to acquire an ingredient supplier…but in my latest first principles thinking content, I'll explain the beauty of this vertical integration investment decision. And I'm sure some industry pundits (or so-called MAHA nutrition experts) will cry that EPG is a step back towards the fat-free craze of my 90's youth. And you're entitled to that opinion but honestly keep it to yourself…because I'm a business-minded simpleton admiring the beautiful strategic alignment between protein bar consumers wanting a “protein-to-calorie” ratio like leading ready-to-mix and RTD protein shakes, and David gaining exclusive control over an important supply chain element making that possible. David isn't just another protein bar brand, it's a food technology company focused on building tools that make it easier for consumers to eat well without compromise.
It's the end, but the moment is prepared for as Steven, Warren, and Chris give their varied takes on “The Reality War”, the final episode of Season 2 and the last bit of Doctor Who on our screens until we're graced with The War Between the Land and the Sea, presumably later this year(?) A marathon session covering a controversial-ish regeneration, RTD's storytelling habits, speculation on the Disney+ deal, further speculation on the future of Doctor Who and television in general, and so much more as the discussion spans more than two hours! Listen if you dare! Links: Support Radio Free Skaro on Patreon Doctor Who S2E08 “The Reality War” Review Ncuti Gatwa Says Goodbye to Doctor Who Doctor Who's Ncuti Gatwa says final farewell to the TARDIS as the Fifteenth Doctor regenerates Doctor Who S2E08 Unleashed Doctor Who S2E08 Behind the Scenes “Doctor Who has ‘changed lives' of LGBT people” The War Between the Land and the Sea teaser Lorne Balfe doing music for TWBTLATS, offering recording session viewing Doctor Who Unleashed: 20 Years in Wales airing June 7 at 7pm on BBC One, 6am on iPlayer Extract from the Fifteenth Doctor original novel ‘Fear Death by Water', book out now Preview of new Fifteenth Doctor and Belinda adventure ‘Spectral Scream', book out now Catherine Tate announced for Edmonton Expo Big Finish The First Doctor Unbound: Knights of the Round TARDIS due Sep 2025
After almost a year of slowdowns, RTD announced this week that every light rail line is finally back up to full speed. But will riders return to the trains? State Representative Alex Valdez joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to talk about the pandemonium in our streets, from RTD's plateaued ridership to Gov. Jared Polis's veto of the big Uber sexual assault bill. Plus, we discuss a fantastic Denverite article about Denver Health's ambulance crews and share our wins and fails of the week. Do you have a question for Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas? We're sitting down with the chief soon, and we want to know what you think we should ask him. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we might put your question to Chief Thomas: 720-500-5418 Paul talked about Blazing Bird, downtown bike lanes, and the sexual assault statistics that Uber and Lyft have reported. Alex discussed City Council's vote on the NWSL stadium proposal and new condos for sale downtown. Bree mentioned the recent spate of measles cases in Colorado. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver Follow us on 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 May 30th episode: Central City Opera - use the code CITYCAST to get 20% off select dates Xcel Energy Denver Fringe Festival Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In Part 2 of my high-flying conversation with Charles Joly, some of the topics we discuss include: The 2014 Diageo World Class win that elevated Charles to global bartending celebrity, and the story of the innovative cocktail that put him in the winner's circle. The importance of timing in cocktail builds and presentation and how effective manipulation of timing can play on a guest's anticipation, which Charles refers to as a “6th sense.” The genesis of Crafthouse Cocktails, a ready-to-drink cocktail brand that has its roots way back in 2013, at time when most people viewed the RTD category as either a non-sequiter or a complete heresy. We cover what the very early RTD landscape looked like, how Charles and his team went about designing canned beverage that actually taste like a real cocktail, the decision to partner with leading spirits brands, and even Crafthouse's recent placement on United Airlines. We wrap the conversation by discussing some of Charles' other favorite projects, like Cayman Cookout with chef Eric Ripert, his own line of custom barware, and even his online vintage store side hustle. Along the way, we cover Charles' most important tips for succeeding in a cocktail competition, why Crafthouse opted for a Paloma over a Margarita in their RTD portfolio, a maximalist itinerary for a full day of eating and drinking your way through Chicago's culinary gems, and much, much more.
Points of discussion:1. 2025 Beer Branding Trends Review -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
I have known the Levys for years. I've known them as restauranteurs and gracious people. They fell in to the restaurant business and it was sink of swim; swim they did, creating an iconic establishment in heart of Southern California. From the restaurant came what one would consider the first of its kind in the San Gabriel Valley...a craft cocktail lounge. No one had heard of such falderall out of downtown Los Angeles, a craft cocktail bar...the idea. Well, it turns out to be a brilliant idea and the bar 1886 became a destination in itself for lovers of hand made, exotic cocktails. Enter the RTD market. I mean, they enter the RTD market. At the time of the success of 1886, the Levys brainstormed a premium, in the bottle, cocktail. Focusing on the classics and nothing but the best ingredients, Knox and Dobson was born. Rob and Leslie Levy never intended to become restaurateurs, much less champions of craft cocktails in a bottle—but as you'll discover, some of the best ideas come when you're busy doing something else. In this episode of Wine Talks, you'll find out how a couple just trying to buy a Pasadena apartment building accidentally inherited an iconic restaurant, survived the baptism-by-fire of the food business, and spun that hard-earned wisdom into revolutionizing the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail world with Knox & Dobson. You'll hear tales of kitchen crises, the quirky genius of naming a brand after a childhood Chicago street corner, and what it really means to translate the heart of a five-minute, hand-crafted drink into a shelf-stable bottle that still surprises—and delights—even the most jaded bartender. Paul and the Levys dig into the gritty, exhilarating reality behind building something new: wrangling with distillers for barrels, battling the sneaky complexities of upscaling classic recipes, and learning the hard way that shelf space is gold and distributors want more than just a good story. Along the way, you'll pick up rare insight into why most canned cocktails are disappointments, the secret advantages of a deep purple apothecary bottle, and the surprisingly emotional connection people make when you pour—literally and figuratively—your passion into a public tasting. Whether you're dreaming of your own food and beverage business, fascinated by the science and soul of the perfect martini, or just want to know whether you could actually run a bar without losing your hair, this is the episode that will pull back the velvet curtain on both the chaos and the romance of bringing real cocktails to a thirsty world. ✅ Ever wonder how a legendary restaurant sparks a craft cocktail revolution? ✅ Rob & Leslie Levy share their wild journey from owning Pasadena's iconic Raymond restaurant to launching their own high-end ready-to-drink cocktail brand—on the latest episode of Wine Talks with Paul Kalemkiarian. ✅ Hear how a real estate deal gone sideways led to 18 years in hospitality, and later, to breaking new ground in the premium RTD (Ready-To-Drink) cocktail market with Knox & Dobson. ✅ Takeaway: Want to know how to turn setbacks and industry surprises into flavorful success? Tune in for lessons on innovation, grit, and the secret to a perfect bottled Manhattan. You'll never look at your next cocktail the same way!
It's finally time for us to face up to the fact that the Eurovision in Space episode is here. So what did the Three Who Rule think of the glitz, glitter, and glamour of The Interstellar Song Contest? You may be surprised at the results! Join us as we muse over surprising cameos, the return of an iconic villain, and our descent into cynicism as we speculate on RTD's current approach, the remaining two episodes and what lies in wait for Doctor Who generally. Plus minor snippets of news, missing episodes yelling, and more! Next week…Wish World, featuring both The Tripods and the Sandbaggers! Links: Support Radio Free Skaro on Patreon Doctor Who S2E06 “The Interstellar Song Contest” Review Archie Panjabi joins Doctor Who as legendary character the Rani Radio Free Skaro #979, on the casting of Archie Panjabi Russell T Davies teases Wish World Richard Price behind the scenes bloot 1 Richard Price behind the scenes bloot 2 Doctor Who S2E06 Unleashed Special episode of Doctor Who: Unleashed announced celebrating 20 years of revival Doctor Who S2E06 Behind the Scenes Ncuti Gatwa did not announce UK jury points at Eurovision, Sophie Ellis-Bextor took his place Sue Malden on Doctor Who missing episodes at Film is Fabulous event Doctor Who's next two series already written despite ‘Disney funding cuts', reports The Mirror Jane Tranter on US co-productions The Happiness Patrol: Unhappily Ever After kickstarter from Cutaway Comics, threshold met
Is the plant-based meat boom going bust? Despite early excitement and big investments, some brands are in the midst of turbulent times and an uncertain future. The hosts weigh in. Plus, Babak Bina, co-founder of BCB3 Hospitality Group, shares how a deep commitment to guest experience and a love for cultural cuisine helped him develop some of the city's most acclaimed restaurants. Show notes: 0:45: Head South. Point (Coffee) Break. Big Names, Live. A Beyond Meati Problem. Dink-Tinis & More. – The hosts recap Taste Radio's vibrant Austin meetup and share red hot news in the business of RTD coffee. They also highlight recently announced founders and operators that will be speaking at BevNET Live Summer 2025, including Kurt Seidensticker of Vital Proteins and Melvin Landis of Olipop. The hosts riff on the stunning downfall of plant-based meat company Meati as well as another poor quarter for Beyond and analyze the broader implications for the alt-meat space. Ray gets everyone's attention with a collaboration between The Botanist Gin and Prince, which have teamed up to serve “pickleball cocktails,” before John and Mike break out lemonade-flavored potato chips and a goat milk “lamb skewer” chocolate bar. Jacqui chats about an avocado-based tea, and Ray showcases new meat sticks from The New Primal and Archer. 29:09: Babak Bina, Co-Founder, BCB3 Hospitality Group – A towering presence in Boston's culinary scene for nearly four decades, Babak is a renowned restaurateur whose influence stretches far beyond the dining room. Known for his unwavering focus on hospitality and a bold commitment to innovative, globally inspired cuisine, he has helped shape the city's food culture in lasting ways. In this episode, Babak shares insights into how he educates diners without alienating them, why pushing a city's culinary boundaries matters, and what it takes to craft experiences that go well beyond just great food. He also discusses his philosophy of leading by example – whether it's mopping the floor or bussing a table – and how culture starts at the top. Brands in this episode: Wundereggs, Super Coffee, Afia, Better Sour, Nebula Snacks, NUFS, Jolene, Vital Proteins, Olipop, Polar, Meati, Beyond, Impossible, The Botanist, Essentia, Utz, Alex's Lemonade Stand, New Primal, Archer, Kesssho, Avsome, HOP WTR
The Three Who Rule weigh in on an episode full of of firsts as The Doctor and Belinda head to 2019 Nigeria in “The Story and The Engine,” a mix of mythology, storytelling, and a big ol' spider! What did they think of this psychological thriller set in a barbershop that also wanders through a web of dimensions? Plus what were Millie Gibson and RTD on about on The One Show and Morning Live, respectively? And what's Eric Roberts' Master up to? All these questions won't be answered, but enjoy anyway! Links: Support Radio Free Skaro on Patreon Doctor Who S2E05 “The Story & the Engine” Review Doctor Who S2E05 Unleashed Doctor Who S2E05 Behind the Scenes The Story & the Engine prequel Compilation of past Doctor clips and the source stories “The Reality War” simulcasts on Disney+, iPlayer, and BBC One at 7pm UK time on May 31 Millie Gibson on The One Show talking about the finale RTD on Morning Live The Jon Pertwee Collection Audio CD due July 4 Big Finish Paul Spragg Memorial Short Trip Opportunity 2025 competition open, closes mid-June Big Finish: The Worlds of Doctor Who – Dark Gallifrey: Master! begins July 2025