Podcasts about Transistor

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Sue Delegan and Kim Hehir, the co-founders of Brutus Bone Broth, a leading brand in the emerging category of functional pet food toppers. As sisters and entrepreneurs, Sue and Kim share the journey of building a mission-driven company that started in their home kitchens and scaled to national distribution with major retailers like Target.They explore how Brutus Bone Broth was born out of a personal need and quickly gained traction through strategic beta testing, a strong emphasis on product quality, and persistent outreach to retailers. Sue and Kim discuss navigating regulatory hurdles, maintaining cost-efficiency while preserving ingredient integrity, and the importance of innovation in developing new product lines like powdered bone broth and functional goat milk.They also reflect on the emotional realities of entrepreneurship, the value of building collaborative relationships, and how a clear brand mission—nourishing pets while giving back to the community—has remained central to their growth.Listen in to gain valuable insights on product development, retail strategy, and scaling a consumer brand—plus learn how Brutus Bone Broth is shaping the future of pet nutrition.Listen in as they share about:Brutus Bone Broth OverviewManufacturing & Product DevelopmentGo-to-Market Strategy & Early ChallengesNegotiation & Cost ManagementRetail ExpansionDTC & InnovationEpisode Links:Website: brutusbroth.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-hehir-6753391/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Jamie Valenti-Jordan, CEO of Catapult Commercialization Services, and Andy Kurtts, founder of Buttermilk Creative, for a deep dive into the technical and design considerations to get your product out into the world.Jamie shares his 20+ years of commercialization expertise, covering the technical side of packaging—shelf life, structural integrity, co-manufacturing constraints, and the science behind keeping products protected from oxygen, moisture, light, and even drop-kicks during shipping. Meanwhile, Andy offers the designer's perspective on how to stand out on-shelf, balance aesthetics with category norms, and build packaging that communicates your brand's promise clearly and effectively.Together, they break down how packaging influences everything from retail acceptance to consumer perception, and why early-stage brands should think carefully about format, manufacturing limitations, and visual hierarchy. Real-world examples like Graza, NoBull, and Leisure Hydration illustrate how form and function can come together to build lasting impressions—and brands.Whether you're in the concept phase or planning your second packaging run, this episode is your total package.Tune in now to learn how to make your product irresistible on shelf—from the inside out.Visit Catapult Commercialization Services: https://bit.ly/catapultcpgVisit Canworks digital can printing: https://www.canworksprinting.com/startupcpgListen in as they share about:The Importance of Packaging in Product SuccessTechnical Considerations of Packaging (Jamie's Perspective)Design and Branding Strategy (Andy's Perspective)Working with Designers and AgenciesTesting, Feedback, and IterationCost, Margin, and Strategic Trade-offsMarketing, Community, and Brand ExecutionReal Brand ExamplesEpisode Links:Website: https://www.catapultserv.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fvmh97c/ Website: https://buttermilkcreative.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andykurtts/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Francesca Pittaluga, founder of Ciao Pappy, a premium Italifornia pasta sauce brand that blends the culinary traditions of Italy with the fresh, vibrant spirit of California.Francesca shares her entrepreneurial journey from a career in fashion to building a fast-growing CPG brand rooted in family heritage, clean ingredients, and strong storytelling.Gain insight into the early days of launching Ciao Pappy, the strategic decisions behind product development and retail placement, and the challenges of scaling production while maintaining quality. Francesca also discusses the importance of community support, finding the right partners, and staying focused on sustainable, regional growth before national expansion.This episode is a must-listen for emerging founders navigating the food and beverage space or anyone interested in building a purpose-driven brand.Listen in as they share about:The Origin of Ciao PappyBlending Cultures through FoodEarly Growth and StrategyProduct DevelopmentRetail and Distribution StrategyManufacturing and Co-Packing ChallengesCommunity and ResourcesFunding and Growth ChallengesEpisode Links:Website: https://www.ciaopappy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-pittaluga-983170261/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

On this week's episode of High and Outside, Oz and Commish are back to talk NBA Finals, a wild finish at the Traveler's Championship, NBA Draft stuff and a check in on the F1 season.Twitter: @aokworldwidePodcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Michael Lowry, Vice President of Global Spirit Sourcing, and Andrea Starr, Senior Director of Merchandising at Total Wine & More—the largest independent alcohol retailer in the U.S., with over 300 stores and $6 billion in annual sales.Michael and Andrea pull back the curtain on how Total Wine thinks about brand discovery, merchandising strategy, customer engagement, and category trends — including the rise of non-alcoholic beverages and the emerging THC space. They share what makes a product stand out and why the right design can make or break a new launch. You'll also learn what it takes to get on their shelves, how they stay nimble like a startup, and what catches their eye at trade shows.Packed with actionable insights, category strategy tips, and behind-the-scenes examples, this episode is a must-listen for any startup founder, CPG marketer, or emerging brand looking to break into large-format retail.

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Caitlin Bricker speaks with Fane He and Kyle Nguyen, co-founders of The Lucky Ox, a Vietnamese-inspired beverage company. They share the story behind their flagship salted lemonade, the cultural roots and personal meaning behind the brand, and how their backgrounds in fashion and design have shaped a product that stands out both on shelves and online.From launching with glass bottles and navigating DTC logistics, to building a wholesale business one account at a time—often hand-delivering orders across New York City—Fane and Kyle discuss the challenges and unexpected wins of growing a beverage brand with limited resources but unlimited creativity.They also explore how The Lucky Ox is resonating across diverse culinary spaces and why authenticity has been their strongest differentiator.So, what are you waiting for–listen now!Listen in as they share about:Authenticity Over Trend-ChasingUnique Brand Identity & DesignBootstrapped Hustle & Grassroots GrowthDistribution & DTC ChallengesRetail and Sales StrategyMentorship and Startup CPG SupportCommunity, Mentorship, and Startup CPGEpisode Links:Website: https://luckyox.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fane-he/ LinkedIn: Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Episode: 2798 Behold the Mighty Transistor.  Today, a small item creates a large impact.

What are the (top) secrets of better collaboration?Is collaboration like a game of ping pong? Or more like ballroom dancing? Is there a better way to disagree? Does having constraints make design ... better? How is an exhibition like a film? And what happens when your project feels — in this case, even literally — like “Mission: Impossible”?Barbara Miller (Deputy Director for Curatorial Affairs, Museum of the Moving Image) and Danae Colomer (Director of Exhibition Management and Design, Museum of the Moving Image) discuss “Mission: Collaboration” with host Jonathan Alger (Managing Partner, C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio).Along the way: zombies, skateboards, and messages that self-destruct.Talking Points:1. A Moving Experience2. What is Collaboration? 3. Is It Ping Pong ... or Ballroom Dancing? 4. Constraints Make a Stronger Design 5. Sometimes It's Mission: Impossible How to Listen:Listen on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-the-museum/id1674901311  Listen on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6oP4QJR7yxv7Rs7VqIpI1G  Listen at Making the Museum, the Website:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/podcast  Links to Every Podcast Service, via Transistor:https://makingthemuseum.transistor.fm/ Guest Bios:Barbara Miller is Deputy Director for Curatorial Affairs at Museum of the Moving Image in New York, where she organizes exhibitions and directs the content of the Museum's permanent collection of material culture related to film, television and digital media. Major projects at MoMI include The Jim Henson Exhibition; Deepfake: Unstable Evidence on Screen; and Born Digital: Pathways Towards Preservation, an Andrew W. Mellon-funded initiative to institute sustainable collection and exhibition practices related to digital media. Prior to joining MoMI in 2009, Miller's wide-ranging research and storytelling projects included work on the nationally broadcast PBS documentary American Roots Music, for which she earned an Emmy nomination. She holds a Ph.D. in Cultural Anthropology from New York University.Danae Colomer is an architect and exhibition designer with over 15 years of experience across museum, architecture, and film design. She is passionate about the power of storytelling and how it can be translated into physical space to create meaningful, immersive experiences. Originally from Spain, Danae discovered her passion for exhibition design at the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. Since relocating to New York in 2009, she worked at Ralph Appelbaum Associates on award-winning museums worldwide. In 2021, she joined the Museum of the Moving Image as Director of Exhibition Management and Design. She holds a Master's in Architecture from the Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Madrid and a Master's in Exhibition Design from FIT in New York. When she's not designing exhibitions, Danae explores the world through the curious eyes of her children — which currently means mastering the rules of soccer and decoding the unique language of skateboarding.About Making the Museum:Making the Museum is hosted (podcast) and written (newsletter) by Jonathan Alger. MtM is a project of C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio.Learn more about the creative work of C&G Partners:https://www.cgpartnersllc.com/ Links for This Episode:Barbara by Email:bmiller@movingimage.org Barbara on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-miller-8b788b13b/ Danae by Email:dcolomer@movingimage.org Danae on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaecolomer/ Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI):https://movingimage.org/ “Mission: Impossible — Story and Spectacle” (Exhibition at MoMI):https://movingimage.org/event/mission-impossible-story-and-spectacle/ Links for Making the Museum, the Podcast:Contact Making the Museum:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/contact Host Jonathan Alger, Managing Partner of C&G Partners, on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanalger Email Jonathan Alger:alger@cgpartnersllc.com C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio:https://www.cgpartnersllc.com/ Making the Museum, the Newsletter:Like the show? You might enjoy the newsletter. Making the Museum is also a free weekly professional development email for exhibition practitioners, museum leaders, and visitor experience professionals. (And newsletter subscribers are the first to hear about new episodes of this podcast.)Join hundreds of your peers with a one-minute read, three times a week. Invest in your career with a diverse, regular feed of planning and design insights, practical tips, and tested strategies — including thought-provoking approaches to technology, experience design, audience, budgeting, content, and project management.Subscribe to the newsletter:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/ 

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Alicia Nelson, Sales and Customer Operations Manager at So Good So You, and Emily Curran of SPS Commerce to explore the essential role of Sales Operations in driving operational efficiency and scalability for growing CPG brands.Alicia provides a detailed look into how her team manages day-to-day execution—coordinating orders, logistics, and customer communications—and how cross-functional collaboration is critical to delivering products on time and in full. She also discusses the evolution of her role as the company scaled, the systems that support their operations (including Fishbowl and EDI solutions from SPS Commerce), and the strategic importance of effective communication across teams and partners.Emily shares additional perspective from her work with brands of all sizes, highlighting best practices in implementing EDI, the value of automation, and how to build scalable processes that adapt to increasing complexity.This episode offers valuable insights for founders, operators, and sales teams looking to establish or refine their sales operations infrastructure as they grow.

Aaron + Gerry + Guest + Brazilian steakhouse = a very fantastic episode of SuperPod Saga. The boiz are joined by Steve, who also goes by Blink or Blinkoom, to discuss the wildest video game genre fusions! We'll be doing the Dragon Ball Z fusion dance to combine anything with everything to make some sweet, terrifying hybrids. 

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Grace Mittl, co-founder of Absurd Snacks, a brand focusing on allergen-friendly snacking. Grace Mittl shares how a college entrepreneurship course sparked the creation of Absurd Snacks, originally inspired by a classmate's dietary restrictions. What began as roasted chickpeas in a dorm kitchen has evolved into a fast-growing company offering protein-rich, allergen-free snack mixes.They explore key milestones in the company's growth—from navigating the challenges of allergen-free manufacturing and scaling production, to launching on Amazon and building a strong retail presence with partners like Whole Foods Market, Kroger, and Publix.Grace also reflects on the importance of mentorship, community engagement, and staying transparent as a young founder in the consumer packaged goods space.Listen in for practical insights into launching a purpose-driven brand, and learn how Absurd Snacks is reshaping the future of inclusive snacking.Listen in as they share about:Product DevelopmentManufacturing ChallengesRetail & E-commerce StrategyGo-To-Market StrategyMarketing & Community BuildingFunding & GrowthTeam & SupportBiggest Lessons & AdviceEpisode Links:Website: absurdsnacks.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracemittl/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Justin Jackson is the co-founder of Transistor, one of the most beloved podcast hosting platforms for creators. In this coaching episode, we map out the next stage of Justin's journey—from product founder to thought leader—with a focus on building an audience, growing influence, and creating high-leverage content that compounds.We talk about what changes when you're the face of a SaaS company, how to get more leverage from existing content, and the unique growth opportunities for creators running software businesses.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:42 Becoming the face of Transistor05:17 Why Justin stopped sharing behind-the-scenes08:29 Building a creator identity outside the product13:52 Which ideas deserve your voice?17:35 Strategy for launching an email course22:46 What SaaS founders can learn from creators26:01 Writing frameworks and newsletter clarity31:49 Audience trust and high-leverage content36:42 The long game of thought leadership41:00 Building in public (the right way)51:58 Balancing company growth and personal visibility58:36 Final thoughts on building in public and longevity01:06:40 What Justin's learned from years of audience-first businessIf you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with your friends, and leave us a review. We read every single one.Learn more about The Nathan Barry Show: https://nathanbarry.com/showFollow Nathan:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanbarryLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbarryX: https://twitter.com/nathanbarryYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenathanbarryshowWebsite: https://nathanbarry.comFollow Justin:Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/justinjackson.caX: https://twitter.com/mijustinLinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/justinijacksonWebsite: https://justinjackson.caTransistor: https://transistor.fmFeatured in this episode:Transistor: https://transistor.fmKit: https://kit.com

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Erik Muller and Daria Jackson of The FruitGuys, a purpose-driven company providing fresh fruit and clean-label snacks to offices, schools, and organizations across the country.Erik shares insights from FruitGuys' 27-year journey, highlighting its mission to nourish communities, support sustainable agriculture, and create meaningful workplace experiences. Daria, the Snack Category Manager, discusses how she curates their growing CPG assortment, current trends shaping workplace snacking, and what she looks for when partnering with emerging brands.This conversation covers everything from the evolution of office snack programs to practical advice for brands looking to break into corporate wellness spaces. You will gain valuable perspective on what it takes to build a lasting, values-driven food business—and how to get products in front of the right audiences.Don't miss this episode–tune in now!Listen in as they share about:The FruitGuys OverviewCompany Mission and ValuesBusiness Scope and OperationsProduct Strategy & CPG Snack ProgramCustomer Use CasesTrends & Buyer InsightsHow to Work with Fruit GuysOpportunities for BrandsEpisode Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fruitguys/posts/?feedView=all LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/herrmuller/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daria-jackson-44360a136/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

The point of warfare is to kill and win, but the means to that end must be considered. The bloodlust of mankind is seldom, if ever, suppressed at the point of considering some advantage. Then again, warfare has been a history of unfair advantages through technological innovation hidden from the enemy. Tim and Andrew discuss some of those technological advances in history, our latest technological advance (drones), and the complexity of warfare. And, please, can we remember to pray for those who have to make the actual decisions about international relations and war?***Mentioned in the episode:Carnage and Culture: Landmark Battles in the Rise to Western Power by Victor Davis HansonFlannery O'Connor: "If other ages felt less, they saw more, even though they saw with the bind, prophetical, unsentimental eye of acceptance, which is to say, of faith. In the absence of this faith now, we govern by tenderness. It is a tenderness which, long since cut off from the person of Christ, is wrapped in theory. When tenderness is detached from the source of tenderness, its logical outcome is terror. It ends in forced-labor camps and in the fumes of the gas chamber" (from A Memoir of Mary Ann).Modern Times by Paul Johnson***Out of Our Minds Podcast: Pastors Who Say What They Think. For the love of Christ and His Church.Out of Our Minds is a production of New Geneva Academy. Are you interested in preparing for ordained ministry with pastors? Have a desire to grow in your knowledge and fear of God? Apply at www.newgenevaacademy.com.Master of DivinityBachelor of DivinityCertificate in Bible & TheologyGroundwork: The Victory of Christ & The Great ConversationIntro and outro music is Psalm of the King, Psalm 21 by My Soul Among Lions.Out of Our Minds audio, artwork, episode descriptions, and notes are property of New Geneva Academy and Warhorn Media, published with permission by Transistor, Inc. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Performance is taking center stage in the beauty and personal care ingredients sector, as revealed on the floor of NYSCC Suppliers Day 2025. Host Victoria Meyer explores the notable shift away from buzzwords like “sustainability” and “natural,” uncovering how companies are reframing their focus towards innovation, plant-based solutions, and advanced product performance. Victoria is joined by John Harrold of Zinco Verde, who discusses novel, energy-efficient zinc oxide for sunscreens, and Christoph Krumm of Sironix Renewables, highlighting breakthroughs in bio-based surfactants derived from agricultural waste. The conversation unpacks how trends like neurocosmetics, microbiomes, and a pragmatic approach to environmental benefits are shaping the industry's direction. Get a first-hand perspective on what's driving R&D, purchasing, and consumer choices in today's dynamic beauty ingredient market. Gain insights on the following topics: Innovation Takes Center Stage: Companies are pivoting away from buzzwords like “sustainability” and “natural,” putting real innovation and performance at the heart of product development. Neurocosmetics and Microbiome Science and how new ingredients target mood and neurological benefits alongside appearance, while microbiome-friendly formulations gain traction. Sustainability Reconsidered: Companies shift from "sustainability" rhetoric to pragmatic solutions and value-driven innovation. Plant-Based Performance: Industry messaging replaces "natural" with "plant-based" and "performance”. Start-up leaders discuss bringing advanced technologies to market  Killer Quote: “If you had asked me this when we spun out as a company, I would have told you bio based is the innovation, right? That is the reason for existing. That's really not the case. As we found. Bio based ingredients matter. People still want them. The reason for existing for us is performance.” — Christoph Krumm, CEO of Sironix  0:00:24 Bonnie's career in chemicals 0:02:51 Responsible Care principles at Evonik  0:04:20 Sustainability's growing importance. 0:05:13 Evonik's sustainability pillars: next-generation solutions, technology, and culture. 0:06:34 Customer demand for sustainable solutions  0:08:29 The importance of culture in driving change 0:13:49 Leadership and career lessons, women in leadership roles, Bonnie's career advice   ***Don't miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Wondering how we produce our podcast? We use Transistor to publish our podcast. Check it out here: https://transistor.fm/?via=victoria We use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1 We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t 

It's SuperPod Saga's (very late) third birthday! To celebrate, the SuperPod Fellaz get together to chat about hentai, Bioshock, the Elden Ring movie, and Aaron gets pranked by Gerry. They've also discovered a cool new band called "Tallah", who has a sick Patreon tier that lets you have a movie night with them! Oh, we also do a Q&A with questions from our community. Cake and ice cream are available for an additional fee (join our Patreon or something).

Welcome listeners to this week's episode. We go over turkey and coyote hunting, selling beer, and bad movies. Host: Merdo & BaldyGuest: Karl & TataSubscribe to get updates when new episodes are posted every week. Follow us on Facebook to see photos and videos, and even more content.New episodes are posted every Sunday (sometimes Monday).Want to guest star on our show? Or do you have a story you want to share with us? Email us at finishyourfnstory@gmail.comIf you would like to remain anonymous, we just ask that you tell us what city and state you are emailing from and we will create a fake name for you. Otherwise, share your first name, where your emailing from, and when/where this story take places.Content Warning: Use of explicit language is used throughout the show.Disclaimer: All individuals are innocent until proven otherwise.For mature audiences only.Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

In this episode, Daniel Scharff shares an exciting new opportunity for emerging CPG brands: the Startup CPG Innovation Section at the upcoming UNFI Selling Shows. For the first time ever, Startup CPG is partnering with UNFI to showcase innovative brands not yet working with the distributor — offering 10 free tabletop spots at their July shows in Las Vegas (July 15–17) and Mohegan Sun (July 29–31).Daniel explains why this opportunity is a game-changer, highlighting the exclusive access to top retailers and UNFI team members, and how distributor account managers can play a critical role in brand success. He also shares personal insights from his own experience exhibiting at these shows and building vital industry connections.

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Dina DiCenso, co-founder of RIND, an innovative vegan cheese company based in Brooklyn, New York. Dina shares RIND's journey from homemade recipes to national retail shelves and fine dining establishments—including a notable appearance at the White House.They explore the brand's proprietary fermentation techniques, the challenges and advantages of bootstrapping in a competitive category, and the strategic growth of their two lines: RIND and Veggie Underground.Dina also offers valuable insights into retail expansion, foodservice strategy, and the evolving landscape of plant-based dairy alternatives.Tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Mission and MotivationProduct DevelopmentBootstrapped vs Self-FundingBusiness Growth and ChallengesMarket Trends & Industry InsightRetail and DistributionMarketing and Consumer EducationEpisode Links:Website: https://www.rind.nyc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinadicenso/  Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Playlist: 1/ Dam Swindle, Mayer Hawthorne « 64 Ways » (2022 Mix - Edit) 2/ Gustavo Fk, Fabrizio Michels « Boogie Jazzy » 3/ Tonbe « You Know What This Life Is » (Version 3) 4/ Spencer Parker « Kiss » 5/ Irfane, Jerk Boy « Something Isn't Right » 6/ TheDjLawyer « Symphony » (Disco Mix) 7/ Richard Earnshaw, HP Vince « That's It » 8/ MDFC, Joe Roberts « Shante » (Dr Packer Mix) 9/Luis Radio, Earl W. Green « He Gives Me Joy » (Groove Junkies, Reelsoul Vocal MIx) 10/ Babert, Stefano Freddi « Body and Soul » 11/ Chromeo, Riva Starr « I Was Lost (And I Found You) » 12/ Kapote, Cody Currie « Dance Dance Dance » 13/ Roland Clark « Who Keeps Changing » 14/ Kai Alce, Diogo Strausz Canto das Três Raças » (Kai Alcé NDATL Vocal Mix)

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Janice Greenwald, a seasoned marketing leader with over two decades of experience spanning Unilever, Sabra, and numerous natural food startups. Janice shares her expert perspective on what truly drives success in CPG marketing, introducing her expanded “C's and P's” framework and offering actionable insights for early-stage brands.They cover key topics including defining a compelling value proposition, conducting consumer research on a budget, evaluating product-market fit, optimizing packaging for shelf impact, and selecting the right creative partners. Janice also shares best practices for executing high-ROI tactics like retail media, demos, and digital couponing to drive velocity.Whether you're launching a new brand or scaling an existing one, this episode offers clear, strategic guidance to help your product stand out in a crowded market. Listen now!Grassroots Marketing Demos: https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-callJanice's Cs and Ps:Consumer – Who is your product for, and what real problem are you solving?Customer (Retailer) – You must show how your product will grow their categoryCategory – You're not just selling a product; you're helping drive category incrementalityCompetition – Understand the landscape and how your brand stands outProduct – Is it actually delivering on a relevant insight or need?Pricing – Must reflect your value proposition, margin goals, and consumer expectationsPackaging – Your single best marketing tool in-store—must break throughPlacement – Should be a joint effort with sales to get the best in-store visibility at the right retailers (or channels)Promotion – Covers everything you'll do to move product off the shelfListen in as they share about:Marketing for CPG BrandsMarketing Framework: Cs & PsProduct-Market Fit & RepositioningBrand Audits and Course CorrectionDriving Velocity: Practical TacticsMarketing Spend and ROI-Driven TacticsResearch & ValidationChoosing a Design PartnerEpisode Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janice-greenwald-marketing-consultant/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Aaron and Gerry are joined by Treeky and Mike (better known as Quest 64 Official) to rank their Top 10 Castlevania game subtitles! From Symphony of the Night to Aria of Sorrow, we're hardcore judging the subtitles based on confusion, syllables, how emo they sound, and more! This episode was totally cursed from the very beginning and should not have happened. Bon Appétit. [DISCLAIMER: Everyone was having issues with this recording, so we apologize for any audio garbles or artifacts].Cool Games Discussed: Castlevania, Simon's Quest, Aria of Sorrow, Harmony of Dissonance, Portrait of Ruin, Circle of the Moon, Curse of Darkness, Legacy of Darkness, Harmony of Despair, Lords of Shadow, Lords of Shadow 2, Legends, Judgment, Grimoire of Souls, Dracula's Curse. What are your favorite Castlevania games or subtitles? Comment on Bluesky  Click here to view the episode transcript.

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Brenna Turner and Joey Labes, the co-founders of Sake High!, a premium sake brand brewed in Japan and designed for the modern U.S. consumer. From launching one of the first canned sakes in the U.S. to debuting innovative sake-based hard teas, Sake High! is on a mission to make sake more accessible, versatile, and relevant to a new generation of beverage drinkers.Brenna and Joey share their journey of building an alcohol brand as a couple, navigating the complexities of international sourcing and U.S. distribution, and staying true to their values by continuing to partner with traditional Japanese breweries. They also dive into their grassroots marketing strategy, how they're challenging sake norms, and why consumer education is key to their success.Explore the future of sake — and the startup driving it forward. Listen now!Listen in as they share about:The Origin of Sake High!Branding & Packaging ProcessDisrupting the Sake CategoryBootstrapping Growth & Product innovationChallenges of Alcohol DistributionRunning a Startup as a CoupleCommunity & CollaborationEpisode Links:Website: https://www.sakehigh.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenna-turner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelabes/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgostVisit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this edition, we review Amazon's The House of David!Podcast links:To contact us send us an email to fromdublintocleveland@gmail.com or followthe Podcast on Facebook. To support us buy a shirt at:https://www.bonfire.com/store/from-dublin-to-cleveland/To buy Brendan's book use this link:https://www.amazon.com/GHOST-UNSAID-PART-ONE-PANOPTICON/dp/1948581647/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1645880560&sr=8-1To buy book 2 : https://www.amazon.com/GHOST-UNSAID-BOOK-RECKONING-Triumvirate/dp/B0CHGC7W73/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1F2ZZP1PPC70K&keywords=brendan+thomas+marrett+reckoning&qid=1695349473&sprefix=brendan+thomas+marre%2Caps%2C1009&sr=8-1Podcast theme music by Transistor.fmSounds and background music from Zapsplat.com

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Patricia Menegoto and Caitlin Bricker from the Startup CPG team for a packed update on everything happening across the community.They dive deep into the Shelfies, the industry's largest free product awards program, discussing standout submissions, evolving trends in plant-based innovation, and what it's like to be a Shelfies judge. Patricia and Caitlin share their unique judging processes and the behind-the-scenes chaos (and joy!) of receiving hundreds of packages.The team also highlights major upcoming events—from the Further initiative empowering female founders to the jam-packed Fancy Food Show schedule, featuring buyer meetings, founder dinners, and a silent disco at Discotopia during Newtopia Now. Plus, you'll get the inside scoop on the Grocery Run event series, how the Startup CPG Newswire is amplifying brand news for free, and Caitlin's new role as host of the Friday Founder Feature podcast episodes.Whether you're already part of the Startup CPG community or just discovering it, this episode is your roadmap to all the ways we're connecting, celebrating, and supporting emerging brands across the country.Don't miss out—Listen now!Email and Content Manager Job Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScI2upkBZbBA6NuJ0pMQCktMPFHVM-zF22pT66UEpUAH0ZVAg/viewformCPG Operations Writer Job Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbhEnmFjJ0M2myKIpbz5FU6RX-jAyyoAZ1FkNiwe5SD6steA/viewformListen in as they share about:Shelfies AwardsFurther Program for Female FoundersTrade Show Events- Fancy Food Show-Newtopia Now-Expo WestGrocery Run Event SeriesStartup CPG NewswireTeam and Community HighlightsEpisode Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pmenegoto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlinbricker/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy is joined by Stephanie Berwick, founder of Pastazerts—the first brand to bring chocolate ravioli to market. Stephanie shares her unique journey from a two-decade career in fintech to launching a frozen dessert product that's carving out a completely new category in CPG.She discusses how early success in amateur cooking competitions sparked the idea, and walks through the practical steps she took to validate the concept, navigate production challenges, and transition from self-manufacturing to working with a co-manufacturer. Stephanie also opens up about the realities of bootstrapping a frozen brand, conducting a debt-based crowdfunding round, and the strategic rollout into retail and foodservice.This episode is packed with valuable insights on innovation, retail readiness, and managing operational complexity in the frozen space.Tune in now! Listen in as they share about:Overview of PastazertsEarly Steps & Product DevelopmentProduct Development and ScalingRetail & Distribution StrategyFrozen Category ChallengesFunding and Financial StrategyMarketing and Community BuildingAdvice for EntrepreneursEpisode Links:Website: https://pastazerts.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-berwick/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Chris Szigeti, a seasoned tech consultant and emerging CPG founder, for an in-depth discussion on how artificial intelligence is transforming the consumer packaged goods industry.Chris demystifies foundational AI models such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Perplexity, and shares practical strategies for integrating these tools into early-stage brand building. From conducting deep market research to creating AI-powered advisory boards, Chris outlines how solo founders can effectively leverage AI to streamline operations, accelerate development, and make more informed business decisions.Drawing from his own experience building Froth and Honey, Chris offers a candid look at how AI can reduce overhead, enhance creativity, and help brands launch smarter and faster — even with limited resources.If you're a CPG founder looking to better understand and apply AI in your business, this episode is a must-listen.Listen in as they share about:AI and Foundational ModelsHow to Use AI EffectivelyPractical Use of AI for CPG BrandsResearch & Strategy via AICustomizing AI ResponsesUsing AI as a Virtual AdvisorAI for Content Creation & DesignHow Chris Uses AI to Build His BrandPros & Cons of AIEpisode Links:Website: https://www.peakproductgroup.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisszigeti/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

How do you choose the right architect for your museum?Is architecture about more than a building? Is architect selection about more than architecture? What is a design “brief”? Why are museum projects on “elephant time”? Are anonymous open design competitions a good thing? What comes after “good design is good business”?Susanna Sirefman (President, Dovetail Design Strategists) discusses “The Art of Choosing a Museum Architect” with host Jonathan Alger (Managing Partner, C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio).Along the way: cello studies, Winston Churchill, and two lions named Patience and Fortitude. Talking Points:1. Design excellence is a basic human right2. Architecture is about more than a building3. Architect selection is about more than architecture4. Selecting the right architect is vital5. Ask the right questions and you'll get the right answers6. Moving beyond “Good design is good business”How to Listen:Listen on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-the-museum/id1674901311  Listen on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6oP4QJR7yxv7Rs7VqIpI1G  Listen at Making the Museum, the Website:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/podcast  Links to Every Podcast Service, via Transistor:https://makingthemuseum.transistor.fm/ Guest Bio:Susanna Sirefman, President and Founder of Dovetail Design Strategists, draws from extensive knowledge of the latest design and building trends, providing her clients with unmatched access to both emerging and acclaimed talent in architecture. Trained as an architect at the renowned Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, England, Susanna's deep knowledge of the field informs her ability to advise on design, synthesize architectural concepts, making architecture accessible to the public.About Making the Museum:Making the Museum is hosted (podcast) and written (newsletter) by Jonathan Alger. MtM is a project of C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio.Learn more about the creative work of C&G Partners:https://www.cgpartnersllc.com/ Links for This Episode:Susanna on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanna-sirefman-17b8a813/ Susanna by email:info@dovetailstrategists.com Dovetail Design Strategists:https://www.dovetailstrategists.com Links for Making the Museum, the Podcast:Contact Making the Museum:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/contact Host Jonathan Alger, Managing Partner of C&G Partners, on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanalger Email Jonathan Alger:alger@cgpartnersllc.com C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio:https://www.cgpartnersllc.com/ Making the Museum, the Newsletter:Like the show? You might enjoy the newsletter. Making the Museum is also a free weekly professional development email for exhibition practitioners, museum leaders, and visitor experience professionals. (And newsletter subscribers are the first to hear about new episodes of this podcast.)Join hundreds of your peers with a one-minute read, three times a week. Invest in your career with a diverse, regular feed of planning and design insights, practical tips, and tested strategies — including thought-provoking approaches to technology, experience design, audience, budgeting, content, and project management.Subscribe to the newsletter:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/

Recap with us as CJ interviews Merdo and Dawn (& Baldy). Host: Merdo & BaldyGuest: CJ & DawnSubscribe to get updates when new episodes are posted every week. Follow us on Facebook to see photos and videos, and even more content.New episodes are posted every Sunday (sometimes Monday).Want to guest star on our show? Or do you have a story you want to share with us? Email us at finishyourfnstory@gmail.comIf you would like to remain anonymous, we just ask that you tell us what city and state you are emailing from and we will create a fake name for you. Otherwise, share your first name, where your emailing from, and when/where this story take places.Content Warning: Use of explicit language is used throughout the show.Disclaimer: All individuals are innocent until proven otherwise.For mature audiences only.Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy sits down with Cynthia Duran, founder of Xinca Foods, one of the first Salvadoran frozen food brands in the U.S. market. Cynthia shares her inspiring journey from a career in tech at companies like Microsoft and T-Mobile to launching Xinca Foods—a brand rooted in heritage and dedicated to making high-quality frozen pupusas accessible across the country.They dive into the realities of bootstrapping a CPG business, the importance of self-manufacturing to preserve authenticity, and the strategic decision to pause growth in order to focus on consumer awareness. Cynthia also opens up about the challenges of entering new markets, learning from on-the-ground demos, navigating distribution, and adapting packaging and pricing to meet regional demand.Whether you're a founder, food entrepreneur, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of scaling a culturally rich food brand, this episode offers a candid look at the grit, strategy, and community that power Xinca Foods.Listen in as they share about:Founding Story of Xinka FoodsBootstrapping and Self-ManufacturingDirect-to-Consumer to Retail TransitionRetail and Distribution StrategyPackaging and Marketing LessonsDay-to-Day OperationsCustomer Feedback and Eating CreativityStartup CPG Community and ResourcesEpisode Links:Website: https://xincafoods.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-duran-693410b9/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Playlist: 1/ Odyssey « NYC Girl » (Gazeebo's Big Apple Mix) 2/ Sunner Soul « Spacy Jamms » 3/ Ken@Work « Good Time Sound System » 4/ Disco Boogie Classics « Dancing' » 5/ Verrush « Funkyboogie »  6/ Sven Hammond/Yuksek/Michelle David « Music Makes Me Move This Way » (Yuksek Remix) 7/ Phazed Groove « We Won't Stop » 8/ Luca Olivotto « Dusk 'Til Dawn » 9/ Carl Price, Paul Hawkins « Falling » 10/ Col Lawton « Havana Nights » 11/ Robosonic, Jess Bays, RAHH « Supposed To Do »  (Mike Dunn BlackBall Extended mixx) 12/ John Julius Knight, Fimiani « Find A Friend » (Fimiani Extended Remix) 13/ The Reflex « Weekend » 14/ David Morales, blondewearingblack « Make It Right » 15/ Bellaire «Sunshine Is Coming »

We're talking about Metaphor: ReFantazio on this month's Currently Playing with guest Shy Fox of the Fix Your Heart or Die Podcast. Fox has been exploring connections between the work of David Lynch and other media for the last few months on his podcast and while Metaphor doesn't really fit that mold, we're happy to chat about it here. Daniel is completely unfamiliar with the Persona/SMT format of this game so we get into the details of how these games work for complete newbies and discover that perhaps Metaphor: ReFantazio is a great place to start if you've always been curious but daunted by the Atlus formula. Later the pair discuss their thoughts on Transistor and Fox challenges Daniel to play Sword of Vermilion on the Sega Genesis.0:00:00 - Welcome to the Show, Shy Fox!0:09:40 - What Are You Playing? - Metaphor: ReFantazio0:42:38 - Backlog Recap - Transistor0:48:23 - Backlog Challenge - Sword of Vermilion0:52:02 - Wrap Up/PlugsCheck out Fix Your Heart or Die Podcast on Spotify, featuring Jonathan Off Road Rules: https://open.spotify.com/show/5stt5kNgqOKhlPs4jh7UoUCheck out Fix Your Heart or Die Podcast Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/c/FixYourHeartPod/postsFollow Fix Your Heart or Die on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fixyourheartpod.bsky.socialListen to the Fix Your Heart or Die Podcast Original Soundtrack by Daniel (we didn't mention it on the show but the soundtrack will add more songs as the podcast evolves, and it will eventually come to Spotify): https://thesanford.bandcamp.com/album/fix-your-heart-or-die-songs-from-the-podcastDonate to the Crips for Esims for Gaza bundle here: https://itch.io/b/2965/crips-for-esims-for-gaza-bundleFollow the podcast feed on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ttwav.bsky.socialFollow Daniel on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/douibyorthst.bsky.social

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with Adam Marsh and Gabrielle McGonagall from Giannuzzi Lewendon, one of the most trusted law firms for CPG founders. They break down everything early-stage founders need to know about setting up their companies, choosing the right entity (LLC vs. C-Corp), fundraising strategies, issuing equity to employees and advisors, and how to protect yourself from losing control of your business.Adam and Gabby also unpack key differences between SAFEs and convertible notes, the pros and cons of crowdfunding, the reality of secondary sales for founders, and why having the right legal advisors is crucial—especially as you scale. Whether you're raising your first check or dreaming of a major exit, this conversation will set you up with the legal fundamentals to do it smartly and safely.Ready to level up your founder knowledge? Listen now and get one step closer to building a company that lasts!Contact Giannuzzi Lewendon for a consultation at https://gllaw.us/Listen in as they share about:Choosing the Right Business EntityEquity Ownership and VestingFundraising MechanicsInvestor Rights and Founder ProtectionDilution and Secondary SalesLegal Expertise vs. AI ToolsEpisode Links:Website: https://gllaw.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-marsh-847a8571/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-mcgonagle-803b2b21/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

The internet is a balkanization of the populace: Everybody finds those they want to listen to. It is exceedingly difficult to teach somebody whose principal input in his life is through the internet. With a flesh-and-blood pastor, you at least can see his sins, his wife, and his children. Generally, with a pastor, you can't escape his bad smells, but on the internet, everything and everyone is perfect.The most difficult thing you do in ministry is to call your own congregation to repentance. It is easy to talk about the sins of people outside the church, but exceedingly costly to do so to those within the church. Your job is on the line. A godly church will love you for that. But there are a lot of bad congregations—those congregations that like their ears tickled. We should love our pastors when they make us angry with their helpfulness.Yet, if pastors will preach to their congregations, their congregations will lead the world. It is not until we are challenged to submit to Scripture ourselves that we will be salt and light in the world. If there is going to be a Biblical church, the most important thing to do is to keep its discipline vivified. But we'd much rather spend our time fighting people who are opposed to Christianity. NETTR protects the "constituents," and casts stones at the world.***Mentioned in the episode...From Melville's Moby Dick, chapter 8, "The Pulpit": "What could be more full of meaning?- for the pulpit is ever this earth's foremost part; all the rest comes in its rear; the pulpit leads the world. From thence it is the storm of God's quick wrath is first descried, and the bow must bear the earliest brunt. From thence it is the God of breezes fair or foul is first invoked for favorable winds. Yes, the world's a ship on its passage out, and not a voyage complete; and the pulpit is its prow."Fundamentalism and American Culture by George MarsdenC.S. Lewis, from The Last Battle: "By mixing a little truth with it, they had made their lie far stronger."Robert Owen: "All the world is queer, save thee and me, and even thou art a little queer."***Out of Our Minds Podcast: Pastors Who Say What They Think. For the love of Christ and His Church.Out of Our Minds is a production of New Geneva Academy. Are you interested in preparing for ordained ministry with pastors? Have a desire to grow in your knowledge and fear of God? Apply at www.newgenevaacademy.com.Master of DivinityBachelor of DivinityCertificate in Bible & TheologyGroundwork: The Victory of Christ & The Great ConversationIntro and outro music is Psalm of the King, Psalm 21 by My Soul Among Lions.Out of Our Minds audio, artwork, episode descriptions, and notes are property of New Geneva Academy and Warhorn Media, published with permission by Transistor, Inc. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, we discuss Adama's adventure on his way to Chattanooga, where he starts his adventure in Kansas City.Paige waited for two days for Adama to come back...at the airport. We're kidding, but she did some planespotting and even photographed the Los Angeles Galaxy.Finally, we discuss via "Paige's Polls" an essential topic on what we and the viewers think should happen to line jumpers.Follow us at @theexitrowpod on Instagram.- A Go-Around Media Group Production- Recorded on: 9 May 2025 in Omaha, Nebraska- Theme Song is "Midnight Hellfire" from Transistor.fm.

This weeks episode was explosive!! Someone was fired live on the air!! We discuss polyamory and ethical non monogamy, the Rodney Hinton Jr. trial, Mother's day for those without mothers and so much more! This is a legendary episode!! Transistor says this is our actual 300th FULL episode so please enjoy!! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Damiano Messineo, founder of Loopini, a revolutionary brand reimagining pizza through the power of the ancient lupini bean. From his childhood obsession with pizza to launching a premium, protein-packed frozen pizza line made in Italy, Damiano shares his flavorful journey of turning tradition into innovation.He walks us through the lupini bean's history—from Roman legions to Mayan civilization—and how this under-the-radar superfood is redefining the frozen aisle. Damiano also talks about sourcing ingredients straight from Naples, the importance of clean Italian flour, and the art of crafting a delicious, healthy pizza that still tastes indulgent. You'll hear insights on launching at Fancy Foods, navigating international supply chains, and the role of community in early-stage growth.Tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Origin of Loopini PizzaWhat Makes Loopini UniqueStartup Growth & Product TestingChallenges & Supply Chain RealitiesRetail & Pricing StrategyDirect-to-Consumer (DTC) EffortsCommunity & Startup CPG SupportEpisode Links:Website: https://eatloopini.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiano-messineo-53354018a/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, our Editor, Caitlin Bricker, sits down with Ashley Waldman, founder of Jubilee's, a groundbreaking line of flavored milk for kids made with real fruit, hidden vegetables, high protein, and zero added sugar.Jubilee's just won the "Ones to Watch" lightning pitch competition at Beverage Forum!In this episode, Ashley shares the personal story that inspired the brand's creation, including her experience as a parent of a child with autism and her frustration with the lack of nutritious, low-sugar beverage options for children. From working with a professional formulator to pioneering a new approach to sweetening milk with fruits and vegetables, Ashley provides a transparent look into the product development process, the health implications of added sugar, and the early wins that are propelling Jubilee's into retail spaces and onto Amazon.They also explore broader industry trends, the rise of functional and clean-label products, and practical advice for emerging founders in the CPG space.What are you waiting for? Listen now!Listen in as they share about:Founding Story of Jubilee'sProduct Formulation & InnovationParenting & Health ConsciousnessConsumer Trends & Health CultureMarketing & DistributionClean Label & Ingredient AwarenessFounder AdviceEpisode Links:Website: https://drinkjubilees.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyverrill/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

What if every museum were more like ... a children's museum?Why is play “agnostic”? Can you design an entire museum for every generation, all at the same time? How are children's museums like (and not like) other museums? How did they get that way? Wait, could we make an entire exhibition out of nothing but cardboard boxes? What is “co-learning”? And why don't more museum people visit … other people's museums?Along the way: teaching artists, art teachers, and what we really mean by “caregiver.”Talking Points:1. Children's museums, then and now2. See the word “museum” differently3. Play is agnostic4. Designing for multiple generations5. Caregivers as co-learners6. Why professionals should visit other museumsHow to Listen:Listen on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-the-museum/id1674901311  Listen on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6oP4QJR7yxv7Rs7VqIpI1G  Listen at Making the Museum, the Website:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/podcast  Links to Every Podcast Service, via Transistor:https://makingthemuseum.transistor.fm/ Guest Bio:Edwin Link, M.Ed., serves as the Executive Director of Children's Museum of Atlanta, where he applies his 18 years of experience in the nonprofit, arts, education, children museums, and youth development sectors.  His experience includes developing and executing national initiatives focused on serving families in under-resourced communities, building community responsive experiences that create joy and wonder, building strategic partnerships, driving revenue to support strategic objectives, and identifying and implementing change management processes for operational efficiency.About Making the Museum:Making the Museum is hosted (podcast) and written (newsletter) by Jonathan Alger. MtM is a project of C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio.Learn more about the creative work of C&G Partners:https://www.cgpartnersllc.com/ Links for This Episode:Edwin Link on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwinlink/ The Children's Museum of Atlanta:https://childrensmuseumatlanta.org/ Links for Making the Museum, the Podcast:Contact Making the Museum:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/contact Host Jonathan Alger, Managing Partner of C&G Partners, on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanalger  Email Jonathan Alger:alger@cgpartnersllc.com  C&G Partners | The Exhibition and Experience Design Studio:https://www.cgpartnersllc.com/ Making the Museum, the Newsletter:Like the show? You might enjoy the newsletter. Making the Museum is also a free weekly professional development email for exhibition practitioners, museum leaders, and visitor experience professionals. (And newsletter subscribers are the first to hear about new episodes of this podcast.)Join hundreds of your peers with a one-minute read, three times a week. Invest in your career with a diverse, regular feed of planning and design insights, practical tips, and tested strategies — including thought-provoking approaches to technology, experience design, audience, budgeting, content, and project management.Subscribe to the newsletter:https://www.makingthemuseum.com/

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff chats with Dana Kim & Sam Kass to unpack what “health” and “sustainability” actually mean to today's consumers.Sam Kass, former White House Chef and food policy advisor to the Obamas, shares behind-the-scenes stories from the West Wing—including what it's really like cooking for the First Family—and how those experiences led to a deep commitment to reshaping our food systems. He dives into the hard truths about sugar, portion sizes, and policy limits, as well as the ambitious mission behind his new venture, PLEZi, to help shift eating habits for the next generation.Dana Kim, founder & CEO of product testing platform Highlight, brings the data. From packaging guilt to sweetener preferences, Dana shares real consumer insights from across the U.S.—what shoppers say they care about vs. what they actually buy, and why brands need to tailor their health and sustainability messages to fit different audiences (Erewhon isn't the whole world!).Together, they explore how brands can build better-for-you products and communicate them effectively—without falling into the greenwashing trap.

Entérate de lo que está cambiando el podcasting y el marketing digital:-“Creadores digitales” el empleo que más crece en internet.-Apple Podcasts y Spotify, las apps más usadas para escuchar pódcast en Transistor.-Pódcast virales sobre telepatía con hijos autistas alerta a la comunidad científica.-Wikipedia integrará IA sin reemplazar a sus voluntarios humanos.-Meta AI debuta como aplicación independiente en Android y iOS. -México supera los 78 millones de usuarios digitales activos. Patrocinios ¿Estás pensando en anunciar tu negocio, producto o pódcast en México? En RSS.com y RSS.media tenemos la solución. Contamos con un amplio catálogo de pódcast para conectar tu mensaje con millones de oyentes en México y LATAM. Escríbenos a ventas@rss.com y haz crecer tu idea con nosotros.Entérate, en solo cinco minutos, sobre las noticias, herramientas, tips y recursos que te ayudarán a crear un pódcast genial y exitoso. Subscríbete a la “newsletter“ de Via Podcast.

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy chats with Morgan Murdock, the founder of Unbothered Foods—a gut-friendly, sourdough-based cracker brand launched in 2023. Morgan, a clinical dietitian turned CPG entrepreneur, shares her journey from working with IBS patients to creating a delicious, low FODMAP cracker that prioritizes both taste and digestive health.They dive into everything from navigating product formulation and scaling production to finding the right co-manufacturer and managing fermentation at scale. Morgan also opens up about fundraising via WeFunder, the challenges of being a solo founder, and the importance of mentorship in building a mission-driven food brand.If you're a CPG founder, health-conscious foodie, or just love a good cracker, you won't want to miss this one. Tune in now!Use code STARTUPCPG at checkout for 15% off any cracker product!Listen in as they share about:Unbothered Foods OverviewWhy Crackers?The Sourdough AdvantageScaling & Manufacturing JourneyRetail & Distribution StrategyFunding & BootstrappingSolo Founder LifeMentorship & Community SupportEpisode Links:Website: https://unbotheredfoods.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganjmurdock/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff and Caitlin Bricker dive deep into how emerging brands are using AI for operations and back office support. Joined by two powerhouse founders—Yaminah Childress of YANY Beauty and Veronica Blue of Phenomenal Foods Co—they explore how small teams are using AI to scale smarter, save time, and simplify complex workflows.From AI-powered forecasting and document automation to personalized marketing and product costing, this episode breaks down the real-world tools that founders are actually using. Yaminah shares how she leverages tools like Perplexity AI and Contractor AI to manage agreements, expansion strategies, and even create AI assistants.Meanwhile, Veronica reveals how ChatGPT has become her go-to tool for recipe costing, unit economics, and preparing investor-ready projections—all as a solopreneur.Whether you're skeptical, curious, or already experimenting with AI, this episode will give you practical ideas and fresh inspiration to apply AI in your own business ops.Tune in now to learn how these founders are turning AI into their ultimate business partner. Listen in as they share about:Initial Skepticism Around AIAI as a Tool for Business EfficiencyAI as a Tool for Lean TeamsAI for Financial Modeling & ForecastingAI Building Internal Knowledge BasesLegal, Regulatory, and Forecasting UsesCustom Tools & SoftwareAI as a Creative PartnerEpisode Links:Website: https://yanybeauty.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamyaminah/ Website: https://phenomenalfoodsco.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vblue/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with BJ McCaslin, co-founder of Holy! Water.BJ shares the story behind Holy! Water, a functional beverage brand built on the belief that health is sacred. Drawing on his deep experience in hospitality and beverage entrepreneurship—including a successful exit to Vita Coco—BJ discusses how Holy! Water was developed to meet multiple consumer needs with formulations that include ketones, functional mushrooms, and nootropics.They explore the evolution of the non-alcoholic and functional beverage categories, the challenges of product development, retail strategy, and navigating distribution. BJ also opens up about his approach to brand-building, investing in people, and what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive industry.Whether you're a CPG founder, investor, or industry enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insight into the grit, creativity, and strategy behind bringing a beverage brand to life. Listen now!

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with CPG veteran Matt Merson to dive deep into one of the most critical topics for emerging brands: velocity. With over three decades of experience from industry giants to emerging brands, including Coca-Cola, Dannon Yogurt, Glaceau Vitaminwater, Zico, Boxed Water, Haven's Kitchen, and now Once Upon a Coconut—Matt shares hard-earned insights on what it really takes to drive product velocity in retail.They explore everything from the pre-launch groundwork that sets brands up for success to the nuances of working with retailers, optimizing shelf placement, leveraging data, and understanding buyer expectations. They also break down in-store vs. out-of-store tactics, how to effectively run promotions and demos, and how to use merchandising partners to gain a competitive edge. For bootstrapped founders and well-funded startups alike.Matt's advice offers a roadmap to building a brand that turns quickly, wins over buyers, and scales sustainably in retail. Tune in now!Schedule a call with Grassroots, Startup CPG's demo partner:https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-callAccess Startup CPG's exclusive data package with NIQ:https://nielseniq.com/global/en/landing-page/startupcpg/Listen in as they share about:Velocity in Retail for CPG BrandsPre-Launch StrategyDriving In-Store VelocityMerchandisingOut-of-Store StrategiesData & Velocity MetricsDistribution & StockoutsBootstrapping AdviceEpisode Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-merson/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Data is like your podcasting superpower, folks! If you want to grow your show, you gotta get your hands on the right stats. Seriously, knowing what's working and what's not can save you from wasting your time. We dive into the nitty-gritty of how to collect and use data from places like Apple and Spotify to figure out your audience and their habits. Don't worry, we'll also have a laugh or two about how confusing all this can be, because who doesn't love a good irony sandwich? So, buckle up, and let's turn those numbers into something that actually helps your podcast shine!Data Sources:podcastsconnect.apple.com You can see how many Apple followers you have, and how far they are listening (and compare episodes to median and best numbers. podcasters.spotify.comYou can see how many Spotify followers you have as well as demographic data of your audience. You can also see how far people listen. You can also see how often your show was shown, and how that lead to people listening.podcasters.amazon.comYou can see how many people on Amazon Music are following you, how many downloads you get and how far people listenYour Media HostThis could be Captivate, Buzzsprout, Blubrry, Transistor, Libsyn, etc (I do not recommend Spotify). Here you can see how many downloads you get per episode, and see the location of your audience.Google AnalyticsHere you can see the top pages of your website, among many other things. You can find it at analytics.google.comYouTubeYouTube statistics are impressive and show you an insane amount of detail. The stat I look at is how far people watch. Keep in mind a video on a YouTube short is anything above zeroAudience SurveyWhen in doub,t ASK YOUR AUDIENCE. This is the #1 way to get direct feedback from your audience. Check out the book, "The Audience in Listening" by Tom Webster, regarding creating a survey (or use the one built into Podpage).Takeaways: Data is your podcasting superpower; it helps you know what's working and what's not. If you're seeking sponsors, understanding your audience demographics is absolutely essential. Start with the end in mind; knowing your goals helps you get the right data. Don't just hope for feedback; ask your audience directly with surveys for better insights. Using platforms like Google Analytics can reveal hidden gems about your podcast's online performance. Remember, marketing your podcast is as essential as creating it; be strategic about your approach. Links...

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, host Grace Kennedy speaks with Max Luthy, co-founder of Plink! Hydration, a fast-growing brand bringing a fresh take to the electrolyte category with its fizzy, flavorful, and sustainable hydration tablets. Max shares the brand's unique origin story, the challenges of positioning a disruptive product in a traditional market, and how Plink! has scaled from concept to landing on shelves in over 1,100 CVS locations. He offers valuable insights into product development, retail strategy, category navigation, and the importance of refining your value proposition as you grow. Whether you're a founder, brand builder, or CPG enthusiast, this conversation offers actionable takeaways and an inspiring look at what it takes to succeed in the modern beverage space. Listen now!Listen in as they share about:The Origin of Plink! HydrationCo-Founder DynamicProduct PositioningCategory StrategyRetail & GrowthEnvironmental MissionE-commerce LearningsFlavor & Formulation DecisionsRetail & DTC GrowthAdvice for Other FoundersEpisode Links:Website: https://drinkplink.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxwell-luthy-a8587137/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff and Patricia Menegoto from the Startup CPG team sit down with Leana Salamah of the Specialty Food Association to learn all about the upcoming Summer Fancy Food Show in New York, as well as Luca Molinari of BARIS, who exhibited last year, and Jaden McTaggart from Earth Fare, a show regular.They kick things off with an inside look at the upcoming Summer Fancy Food Show in New York—why it's one of the most high-impact events of the year for emerging brands, and what makes the Startup CPG section a magnet for top-tier buyers. Leana shares how the show supports brands at every stage, while Daniel and Patricia offer a behind-the-scenes look at their curated events, pitch sessions, and founder networking opportunities.Then, Luca shares the story behind BARIS—a Patagonia-born, chocolate-dipped raspberry brand that turned a single tabletop at Fancy Food into major retail wins. He shares insights on connecting with buyers, leading with purpose, and building traction as a young brand.Lastly, Jaden offers the buyer's perspective from Earth Fare, explaining what stands out at Fancy Food, how he approaches early-stage brands, and why product mission, packaging, and personal connection matter more than ever.Tune in now!Our upcoming Fancy Food Show 101 webinar: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fancy-food-show-101-get-ready-for-the-2025-summer-show-tickets-1291507807619?aff=oddtdtcreatorApply for the Startup CPG section at Fancy Food Show:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdbu0jtXP2n-tS1xSWhC9LHorFI8Fm736mujws35eftWixlfg/viewform Listen in as they share about:Overview of the Fancy Food Show (Summer Edition)Opportunities for Brands at the ShowWhat to Expect from the ShowStartup CPG's Role and Events at the ShowBrand Perspective - SFA (Leana)Brand Perspective – Baris (Luca)Buyer Perspective – Earth Fare (Jaden)Tips for Brands Attending Fancy FoodEpisode Links:Website: https://www.specialtyfood.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leana-rogers-salamah-5770862/ Website: https://everybaris.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luca-molinari-cattarossi/ Website: https://www.instagram.com/earthfare/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaden-mctaggart-1167225b/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy chats with Marilyn Yang, co-founder and CEO of Popadelics—the first-of-its-kind crunchy shiitake mushroom chip brand. Marilyn shares the story of how she and her husband turned a pandemic-era idea into a nationwide retail brand, detailing their journey from finance to CPG, and the behind-the-scenes grind of product development, branding, pivoting from DTC to retail, and navigating funding without losing creative control. She dives into how they created bold, edgy branding to change perceptions around mushrooms, launched with eye-catching flavors like Rosemary + Salt and Twisted Thai Chili, and scaled the brand through demos, trade shows, and sheer hustle. Plus, she shares what it's like getting on shelves at places like Whole Foods, Urban Outfitters, and even airport stores, all while building a company rooted in a bigger mission to make all mushrooms—culinary and psychedelic—mainstream. Follow along for more founder stories and behind-the-scenes startup wisdom—tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Popadelics Founding StoryFlavor DevelopmentInitial Launch StrategyGo-to-Market StrategyFunding & Self-FinancingPitching & Investor ReadinessBiggest Challenges and Future GoalsEpisode Links:Website: https://popadelics.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/popadelics/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we begin a new series of series on the independent games of the last couple of decades, starting with 2012's Fez. We set the game in its time, talk a bit about its precedents and the landscape of independent games in the middle of that console generation. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Single-digit cubes Issues covered: our real plan or lack thereof, early games, the indie revolution, the influences back and forth, the pressure of the space we're in, a highly visible indie, games from that year, sequels vs the different stuff in the indies, democratization of the market, the console cycle, always online fiasco, getting on the Steam store, opening console store fronts to independents, limitations, the broadband market and bandwidth costs, the publicity on the store, low cost of goods, continuing power of retail, a two dimensional puzzle game in a three dimensional world, charm, great music and MIDI with an unsettling feel, rotating the world, rebooting the game, achieving the effect without perspective, the Trixel engine, having a hard time getting it, trusting the game, having a new lens on a game, taking the time to infuse the whole experience, team sizes, telling a different story with an existing language, having fewer people to get on board, independent publishers and producers, influences, glitch aesthetics, map language, climbing on the sides of things, stopping time while the world rotates, how the editor might work, games from the past, CONFIG.SYS (dang it, could not remember), skipping over generations. Games, people, and influences mentioned or discussed: Will Wright, Indie Game: The Movie, Polytron, Phil Fish, Dishonored, Halo 4, AW American Nightmare, X-COM, Firaxis, Mass Effect 3, Forza Horizon, Far Cry (series), Counterstrike: Go, Assassin's Creed 3, Borderlands 2, Diablo III, Dragon's Dogma, Journey, The Walking Dead, Telltale Games, FTL, Spelunky, Papo y Yo, Bastion, Super Hexagon, Terry Cavanaugh, Supergiant, Hades, Transistor, UFO 50, Derek Yu, That Game Company, Sky, Sony, PlayStation, Microsoft, Steam, XBLA, Braid, Super Meat Boy, Nintendo, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Zelda (series), Super Mario (series), Metroid (series), Outer Wilds, The Sixth Sense (obliquely), Renaud Bedard, Trapdoor, Penny Arcade, blitworks, Tetris, Axiom Verge, Tron, Out of this World, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, Super Mario 3D Land, Minecraft, Sam, Interstate '76, Kirk Hamilton, Aaron Evers, Mark Garcia. Next time: More Fez! Twitch: timlongojr Discord DevGameClub@gmail.com