Podcasts about The Vitamin Shoppe

Lionel Messi is a global sports icon and had a deep-pocketed strategic partner at his side. So why did his sports drink brand Más+ fail? The hosts break it down and also discuss how protein snack brand Wilde is turning heads with a new take on a cheesy cracker. Plus, Patrón's Roberto Núñez & David Rodriguez reveal how the leading tequila maker scaled globally without sacrificing its handcrafted roots. Show notes: 0:20: Face Tattoo. Shelf Talkers. Mas Authenticity. Super Salsa. Wilde Ideas. Ray's New Substack? – Ray and John congratulate — and rib — Mike about Arsenal finally winning the Premier League before highlighting opportunities for BevNET Live attendees to connect directly with retail buyers from Whole Foods, Vitamin Shoppe, Wegmans, and Walmart. The conversation then turns to the shutdown of Messi's sports drink brand, Más+, and why celebrity alone isn't enough to build a durable consumer brand, underscoring the importance of authenticity and founder involvement. That theme carries into a discussion of Ithaca Hummus founder Chris Kirby and his new venture, Guillermo's Salsa, with the hosts crediting the brand's early traction to strong execution, product quality, retail expertise, and Kirby's operational experience. The latter half of the episode shifts into rapid-fire product tastings, including Armra's new colostrum soda, which sparks a conversation about rising consumer interest in gut health ingredients and functional beverages. The hosts also heap praise on Wilde, whose protein crackers impress with their Cheez-It-like taste and texture, while spotlighting several other brands, including protein- and probiotic-infused Rogue Snacks, Summer Camp iced tea concentrates, and Holy Tshili chili crisp seasonings. 29:17: Interview: Roberto Núñez & David Rodriguez, Patrón – On location at Patrón Tequila's sprawling hacienda and distillery in Jalisco, Mexico, U.S. National Brand Ambassador Roberto Núñez and Master Distiller David Rodriguez discuss the company's emphasis on craftsmanship and tradition while highlighting the launch of Patrón 100, the brand's new distill-proof tequila. From tahona wheels and copper pot stills to the decision to scale without automation, the conversation offers a rare look inside "the Patrón way" and the philosophy that continues to shape one of tequila's most iconic brands. Brands in this episode: Patron Tequila, Cabu, Trip, Zico, Nantucket Nectars, Culture Pop, Athletic Brewing, Mas+ Messi, White Claw, Prime, Armra, Ithaca Hummus, Guillermo's Salsa, Jalapa Salsa, Svedka, Wilde, Cheez-It, Khloud, Summer Camp, ogue Snacks, Holy Tshili

Episode #219 of the PricePlow Podcast welcomes back Doug Miller, founder and CEO of Core Nutritionals, for a full portfolio catch-up 4.5 years after Episode #050: Protein Prices on the Rise and Figuring it Out with Doug Miller. Doug’s opening line sets the tone perfectly: “We’re *still* figuring it out and protein prices are *still* on the rise!” In this conversation, Mike and Ben cover the entire Crush It Holdings universe: Doug’s amicable exit from Arms Race Nutrition The decision to shut down the resurrected Myoblox brand Where his focus now sits — Core Nutritionals, Unmatched Supps (his two-year partnership with Kris Gethin), and The freshly launched Nova Prime Labs research-use peptide venture. Along the way, the crew digs into CreGAAtine, Unmatched’s DTC pivot away from broad retail, an incoming Stem Cell product launch, the Unmatched Bar targeting Olympia 2026, and how another protein price spike is reshaping Core’s lineup. Merica Labz gets a few shouts as well. Subscribe to the PricePlow Podcast on your favorite platform and sign up for news alerts before you dive in! https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/doug-miller-219 Video: Doug Miller Returns: Core Nutritionals, Unmatched Supps & Nova Prime Labs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOXpJ94gZR4 Detailed Show Notes: Doug Miller on Core, Unmatched Supps, and Entering the Peptide Space (0:00) – Introductions (1:00) – Exiting Arms Race and Putting Myoblox to Bed (7:00) – What Makes a Brand Worth Running (12:00) – Core Nutritionals and Unmatched: Two Brands, One Focus (16:00) – The Kris Gethin Partnership: Founding Unmatched Supps (19:45) – Going All-Natural and Pulling Back from Vitamin Shoppe (22:00) – CreGAAtine: The Science and Unmatched’s First-in-the-US Play (24:30) – White Packaging, Stem Cell Launch, and Managing the Pipeline (30:00) – Functional Foods: Core Balls, Brownies, and the Unmatched Bar (35:30) – Merica Energy and the Unmatched Drink (38:45) – Entering the Peptide Space: Nova Prime Labs (43:30) – Quality Standards and the Scammer Already at the Door (49:00) – Oral Bioregulators and What Nova Prime Won’t Sell (51:15) – GLPs, Fat Burners, and “Natural” in 2026 (57:00) – Crush It Wellness MD and Protein Prices: Still Figuring It Out Big thanks to Doug Miller for coming back after four and a half years and talking through everything happening across the portfolio. If you’re following Core, Unmatched, Nova Prime, or Merica Labz, PricePlow has news alerts for all of them. And thanks to Darren and the team at PerfectShaker for sponsoring the PricePlow Podcast — check out their lineup of shaker cups at PricePlow.com/perfect-shaker, or get the full story behind the brand in Darren Thompson: Inside PerfectShaker | Episode #209. Subscribe to the PricePlow Podcast, sign up for news from Core, Unmatched, Doug Miller, and Merica Labz on PricePlow, and leave us a great review on iTunes and Spotify! Where to Follow and Learn More &… Read more on the PricePlow Blog

Putting brain health at the center of women's wellness — that's the conversation

Check our new website: OFFBounds.tvWhat does a media company built for the AI era actually look like? In this special solo episode of OFFBounds, Paula Macaggi shares how OFFBounds evolved from a retail podcast into an AI-powered media company built with humans and agents working together. After 117 episodes and conversations with executives from more than 30 countries, OFFBounds launched OFFBounds Intelligence, a retail intelligence platform designed to help operators surface the signals, trends, and strategic insights that actually matter. Paula breaks down the thinking behind the platform, the rise of agentic AI, and why the future of business will belong to professionals who learn how to work alongside AI agents instead of competing against them.The episode also explores real-world examples of AI already transforming retail operations and commerce in 2026. From autonomous stores and AI-run workflows to practical use cases inside companies like The Vitamin Shoppe and Tecovas, Paula explains how operators are using AI to improve customer experience, inventory management, speed of execution, and decision-making. She also takes listeners inside the OFFBounds Intelligence editorial pipeline, revealing how a network of AI agents helps monitor retail news, identify market patterns, and generate operator-focused stories every single day.Mentioned in this episode: ShiSh's report about his AI storeThe Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman Business Insider on AI Retail StoreAI Café in Stockholm

Stuart Tomc, a globally recognized leader in Omega 3 science, discussed his journey in the nutrition industry, emphasizing the shift from guess-based supplementation to test-based precision nutrition. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between Omega 6 and Omega 3, ideally a 1:1 ratio, for optimal health. Tomc introduced Zinzino's Omega 3 blood spot test, which has tested 1.7 million people globally, revealing significant imbalances. He explained Zinzino's Balance Oil, which includes polyphenols for stability and efficacy, For the transcript and full story go to: https://www.drmanonbolliger.com/stuart-tomc  Highlights from today's episode include:  Stuart says Test, don't guess: Omega‑6:3 balance in red blood cells is the key inflammatory "vital sign" – you can take fish oil and still be completely out of the safe zone. Stuart explains fish oil ≠ fish: Most refined fish oils are "naked," stripped of protective polyphenols, so they don't behave like real food; Balance Oil restores that missing polyphenol protection. Manon states health sovereignty: People should be the CEOs of their own health—using at‑home tests to know their status and keeping (or firing) practitioners based on results. ABOUT STUART TOMC: Stuart Tomc is a globally recognized leader in omega-3 science with 30+ years in the nutrition industry and over $1 billion in supplement sales influenced worldwide. He has appeared in 6,000+ media interviews and served as Global Educator for Nordic Naturals, training teams at Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, The Vitamin Shoppe, and GNC, as well as independent retailers and healthcare professionals around the world. Today, Stuart is helping lead the shift from guess-based supplementation to test-based precision nutrition. Start testing. Stop guessing. We measure the AA/EPA ratio, Omega-3 Index, Gut Health Index, Vitamin D, and HbA1c — with more AI-driven tests on the way. Stuart teaches that kitchen table medicine — testing at home with high-quality products delivered to your door — is the future of the supplement industry, and he mentors partners building scalable, subscription-based businesses rooted in real data, real results, and real retention Core purpose/passion: Moving the dial on public health globally Website |     ABOUT MANON BOLLIGER, RBHT, FCAH: As a retired Naturopath 1992-2021, I saw an average of 150 patients per week and have helped people ranging from rural farmers in Nova Scotia to stressed out CEOs in Toronto to tri-athletes here in Vancouver. My resolve to educate, empower and engage people to take charge of their own health is evident in my best-selling books:  'What Patients Don't Say if Doctors Don't Ask: The Mindful Patient-Doctor Relationship' and 'A Healer in Every Household: Simple Solutions for Stress'. and What if Your Body is Smarter than You Think?  I am the Founder & CEO of The Bowen College Inc. which teaches BowenFirst™ Therapy and holds transformational workshops to achieve these goals. So, when I share with you that LISTENing to Your body is a game changer in the healing process, I am speaking from expertise and direct experience". Mission: A Healer in Every Household! For more great information to go to her weekly blog:  http://bowencollege.com/blog.  For tips on health & healing go to: https://www.drmanonbolliger.com/tips Follow: Manon Bolliger website  | Linktr.ee | Rumble | Gettr  | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | LinkedIn | Follow: Bowen College Inc. | Facebook | Instagram  | LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter | Rumble | Locals ABOUT THE HEALERS CAFE: Manon's show is the #1 show for medical practitioners and holistic healers to have heart to heart conversations about their day to day lives. Subscribe and review on your favourite platform: iTunes | Google Play | Spotify | Libsyn | iHeartRadio | Gaana | The Healers Cafe | Radio.com | Medioq | Audacy | Follow The Healers Café on FB: https://www.facebook.com/thehealerscafe   Remember to subscribe if you like our videos. Click the bell if you want to be one of the first people notified of a new release. * De-Registered, revoked & retired naturopathic physician after 30 years of practice in healthcare. Now resourceful & resolved to share with you all the tools to take care of your health & vitality!  

Anna Dey is a multi-unit and multi-brand franchise entrepreneur who has spent the past decade building businesses across Northeast Ohio. Since getting her start in franchising with an Anytime Fitness location in 2012, she has gone on to own and operate franchises across several systems including Clean Eatz, Smoothie King, The Vitamin Shoppe, Barrio Tacos + Tequila, and goGLOW, earning national recognition along the way as both Franchisee of the Year and Multi-Unit Owner of the Year.Today, Anna also works as a franchise consultant at The franSPOT, where she helps aspiring entrepreneurs explore and launch franchise businesses of their own. Alongside her entrepreneurial work, Anna is the founder of *24 in 24*, an endurance running event where participants run one mile every hour for twenty-four consecutive hours — an event that has grown from a small community fitness challenge into a Northeast Ohio institution that has raised more than $3 million for children battling life-threatening illnesses.In our conversation, Anna and I explore franchising as a pathway to entrepreneurship — how the model works, why it can be such a powerful on-ramp to business ownership, and what she's learned operating multiple franchise brands across different industries. We also talk about her evolution as an entrepreneur, how she evaluates franchise opportunities today, the importance of building strong teams and delegation, the story behind 24 in 24, and lots more. I very much enjoyed our conversation together — as you'll hear, anna is full of passion and knowledge — and I hope you enjoy it as well!-----LINKS:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annamdeyhttps://www.goglow.cohttps://www.thefranspot.comhttp://www.cleaneatz.comhttp://www.smoothieking.comhttp://www.the24in24.org-----SPONSOR:Cerity PartnersCerity Partners, a full-service investment and wealth management firm serving high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and business owners, is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. The firm has local roots in Cleveland and across Ohio, and like this podcast, Cerity Partners advisors specialize in serving the interests of local entrepreneurs and business leaders. They understand how to manage the total picture of wealth, both personal and professional. Cerity Partners has a unified team of specialists who collaborate on almost every aspect of a client's financial life, including business ownership. The firm's national presence means it can offer the resources and specialized knowledge of the largest institutions with the independence and service of a neighbor. The Cerity Partners Cleveland team understands the complexity that comes with wealth, and they adhere to fiduciary standards. Discover the financial lay of your land.Learn more at ceritypartners.com/NPR or call 216-464-6266.Roundstone InsuranceRoundstone Insurance is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. Founder and CEO, Michael Schroeder, has committed full-year support for the podcast, recognizing its alignment with the company's passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership.Headquartered in Rocky River, Ohio, Roundstone was founded in 2005 with a vision to deliver better healthcare outcomes at a more affordable cost. To bring that vision to life, the company pioneered the group medical captive model — a self-funded health insurance solution that provides small and mid-sized businesses with greater control and significant savings.Over the past two decades, Roundstone has grown rapidly, creating nearly 200 jobs in Northeast Ohio. The company works closely with employers and benefits advisors to navigate the complexities of commercial health insurance and build custom plans that prioritize employee well-being over shareholder returns. By focusing on aligned incentives and better health outcomes, Roundstone is helping businesses save thousands in Per Employee Per Year healthcare costs. Roundstone Insurance — Built for entrepreneurs. Backed by innovation. Committed to Cleveland.Learn more at https://roundstoneinsurance.com/-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here: https://layoftheland.ck.page/5f0c1e28faConnect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

Is FitLife Brands actually growing, or is the Irwin Naturals acquisition just masking deeper issues? In my latest video, I'm breaking down the FitLife Brands (FLTF) Q4 2025 earnings report released on March 31, 2026. While the consolidated revenue jumped an impressive 73% YoY to $25.9 million, a closer look at the data reveals a much more complex story.Irwin Naturals Impact: How the August 2025 acquisition effectively doubled the company's top-line revenue and recalibrated their sales channel mix back toward wholesale.MusclePharm Struggle: Why MusclePharm likely saw a 20% quarterly decline and what the loss of "Pro Series" at The Vitamin Shoppe means for the brand's future.Revenue Diversification: From being a GNC franchise business to "digital-first" portfolio and now managing over 500 SKUs in 20,000 retail locations.Current Strategic Game Plan: I'll break down management's plan to fix Irwin's supply chain and leverage their sales team to cross-sell MusclePharm protein bars and RTD protein shakes. FitLife Brands is at a crossroads. Can they integrate Irwin Naturals fast enough to offset the "muddy" performance of MusclePharm and Mimi's Rock?

Julian Tcherassi didn't start Magiktea trying to compete with traditional tea brands. He found something most people had never heard of — palo azul, a tree bark used for centuries as a natural kidney remedy. When brewed, it does something unexpected. It turns bright blue in the light, thanks to its high concentration of polyphenols — with studies showing it contains up to 8x more antioxidants than green tea. That discovery became Magiktea — an alkaline, caffeine-free tea built around function, not just flavor. Today, Magiktea is stocked in over 1,000 retail locations, including Erewhon, Vitamin Shoppe, Bristol Farms, Lassens, Chamberlin's, and Fruitful Yield — growing quietly in the better-for-you beverage space. Make sure to check them out at: https://magiktea.com/   Make sure to check them out at: https://www.dangerjonescreative.com/   Check out my new book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4kRKGTX Watch our mini-doc - Starting Small: The Raw Truth Behind Entrepreneurship and the American Dream: https://youtu.be/eHuq93wIxs0?si=eDB-ycngvWNapRLO Visit Starting Small Media: https://startingsmallmedia.org/ Subscribe to exclusive Starting Small emails: https://startingsmallmedia.org/newsletter-signup   Follow Starting Small: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingsmallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Startingsmallpod/?modal=admin_todo_tour LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/cameronnagle   Thank you to this episodes mid-break sponsor, Birdieball. It's not your typical carpet mat — they use this aerated foam and turf setup that actually gives you a true roll, so the ball stays on line and reacts like a real green. You can customize the size, adjust speed, even add breaks and different hole setups — so you're not just mindlessly hitting straight putts, you're actually working on your game. I've got mine set up at home and it's just made it way easier to get reps in consistently. If you're trying to tighten up your putting without getting to the course every day, go check out BirdieBall at https://www.birdieball.com   Starting Small is powered by Riverside.fm, the AI-powered platform that lets you record, edit, repurpose,and distribute studio-quality content as easily as if you had a crew behind you. Check them out now at https://creators.riverside.com/CameronNagle

Shirley Gutkowski, CVO and Primary Practitioner at Primal Air, joins us today to help navigate the “transition” period between Cold & Flu Season and Springtime Seasonal Allergy season that we are in now. We will discuss the importance of using Xlear Nasal Spray with xylitol no matter what season it is to maximize our nasal breathing abilities for nasal hygiene, eliminate pollutants, and stay healthy. We will also talk about the petition that Xlear has filed with the FDA to recognize xylitol as an active anticaries ingredient so dental professionals and patients can finally access this powerful tool and what you as a listener can do to help. Xylitol, a safe and natural compound, has been proven to stop cavity-causing bacteria and dramatically reduce tooth decay AND help grow and form faces to reach their genetic potential!Learn more about Xlear XLEAR's Retailers: Walgreens, CVS, Vitamin Shoppe, Target, Kroger, Sprouts, Natural Grocers and most natural products retailers nationwide.XLEAR's Online Retailers: Amazon, iHerb, Lucky Vitamin, and Vitacost.comThe petition requests that FDA:1. Amend 21 C.F.R. Part 355 to list xylitol as an approved anti-caries active ingredient.*Please review the actual petition here: https://xlearprofessional.com/anticaries

In this episode of The Story of a Brand, host Rose Hamilton, CEO of Compass Rose Ventures, sits down with Sucharita Kodali, Vice President and Principal Analyst at Forrester Research, for a thoughtful and strategic conversation about the forces reshaping modern retail. The discussion draws on Rose's experience as an operator inside brands like The Vitamin Shoppe and Nutrafol, where Forrester's research often informed critical boardroom decisions. Throughout the episode, Rose and Sucharita unpack how retail strategy has evolved—from marketplaces and DTC to retail media and AI—and why leaders today must think beyond growth tactics to understand leverage, channel strategy, and long-term enterprise value. Key moments from the episode include: * Why brands should approach marketplaces strategically and consider the sequencing of channels when building long-term value * The importance of "e-control"—protecting pricing, distribution integrity, and brand presentation across marketplaces * How retail media networks are becoming structural components of retailer economics * What leaders should understand about AI and generative AI in retail today—and where the hype exceeds reality * Why the most effective research blends data with narrative to create conviction and drive decision-making This episode offers an inside look at how data-driven insight shapes the biggest strategic decisions in retail and commerce. Join us in listening to the episode to hear Rose Hamilton and Sucharita Kodali explore the patterns, shifts, and lessons that continue to influence how brands build durable growth in a rapidly evolving marketplace. For more on Sucharita Kodali and Forrester Research visit: https://www.forrester.com/bold/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this!

In this episode of The Story of a Brand Show, host Rose Hamilton, CEO of Compass Rose Ventures, sits down with Lisa Chodnofsky, Chief Brand Officer for Vitamin Shoppe, for a thoughtful and energizing conversation about what it truly takes to steward an iconic brand in today's evolving wellness landscape. Throughout the discussion, Rose and Lisa explore the responsibility that comes with leading a heritage retailer in the health and wellness space. The conversation highlights how consumer expectations are shifting, why clarity of purpose matters more than ever, and how brand leadership extends far beyond creative—it's operational, experiential, and deeply cultural.   Lisa shares insight into how Vitamin Shoppe continues to evolve while protecting the trust and credibility that built its foundation. Key moments from the episode include: * What the role of Chief Brand Officer means within a legacy wellness retailer * How Vitamin Shoppe balances innovation with honoring its core identity * Why trust, education, and in-store experience remain critical in a digital-first world * The importance of cohesive storytelling in connecting with modern wellness consumers * How leadership alignment and mission clarity drive long-term brand equity This episode is a powerful reminder that enduring brands don't simply react to change—they evolve intentionally while staying rooted in purpose.   Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode to hear how Lisa Chodnofsky is helping shape the next chapter of Vitamin Shoppe and what brand leaders can learn from her approach to modern retail and wellness.   For more on Lisa Chodnofsky visit: https://www.vitaminshoppe.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this!

Julian Tcherassi is the founder of Magiktea, the first USDA Organic & Wildlife Friendly certified palo azul tea brand in the world.  Under his leadership, Magiktea has grown from a small independent startup into a nationally recognized wellness brand, now available in over 1,000 health food stores nationwide.  Passionate about natural remedies and sustainability, Julian started Magiktea with the mission to share sustainably sourced palo azul so that everyone can enjoy Mother Nature's most magical tea.  In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:00] Intro [02:06] Spotting an opportunity from personal experience [02:56] Starting a business through personal readings [05:06] Prioritizing retail over DTC for early traction [06:53] Offering consignment as visibility strategy  [10:31] Callouts [10:41] Embracing rejection as early sales training [14:43] Sponsor: Klaviyo [16:49] Learning advertisement tactics from founders [18:41] Optimizing website to support conversions [26:46] Sponsor: Intelligems [25:46] Improving listings to outshine competitors [29:26] Leveraging Amazon for exposure and sales [33:25] Sponsor: Electric Eye [34:31] Analyzing your brand for the winning message Resources: Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube Fluorescent alkaline palo azul tea magiktea.com/ Follow Julian Tcherassi linkedin.com/in/julian-serrano-tcherassi-97a891156/ Get your free demo klaviyo.com/honest Book a demo today at intelligems.io/ Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect If you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

In this episode of The Story of a Brand Show, host Rose Hamilton, CEO of Compass Rose Ventures, sits down with Sarah Henry, VP, Head of Content, Influencer, & Commerce at Walmart, for a timely and deeply insightful conversation about how commerce is being reshaped by creators, content, and culture. The episode weaves together personal history—Rose and Sarah previously worked together at The Vitamin Shoppe—with a forward-looking exploration of how discovery has become the new engine of retail growth. Throughout the conversation, Rose guides listeners through the industry's shift from intent-led shopping to discovery-led experiences. Sarah shares how creators now function as trusted guides, how Walmart is building a creator-first commerce platform at massive scale, and why trust, flexibility, and serendipity are essential to modern retail.   Together, they unpack what it takes to connect inspiration to purchase in a way that feels human, seamless, and culturally relevant. Key themes explored in this episode include: * Why social commerce is already shaping consumer behavior and how creators drive modern product discovery   * How Walmart approaches creator-first commerce by prioritizing value, trust, and long-term relationships   * The concept of "serendipitous discovery" and why creators act as the new shelf space and sales associates   * How trend intelligence and social listening inform assortment, content, and commerce decisions   * What brands often get wrong when working with creators—and how authenticity and flexibility improve outcomes   This episode offers a clear blueprint for founders, marketers, and retailers navigating the future of commerce.  Join us in listening to the episode to hear how creators, content, and trust are redefining discovery—and why the brands that build ecosystems, not just products, will be the ones that win.   For more on Sarah Henry visit: https://www.walmart.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this!

Ad Free Episodes: https://bit.ly/3uTxGYw For one night and one night only, Brooke calls an emergency Obsessed episode with Tristan to talk about the magic of Heated Rivalry. They talk about the importance of tension, touching toes at the cottage, and sharing tuna melts together. Barebells Protein Bars are available at retailers like Target, Walmart, Vitamin Shoppe, and GNC or use code OBSESSED for 15% at https://barebells.com! If you listen on Apple Podcasts, go to: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/obsessed-with-brooke-averick/id1697047751 Obsessed IG: https://www.instagram.com/obsessedwithbrooke Obsessed TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@obsessedwithbrooke TMG Studios YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/tinymeatgang TMG Studios IG: https://www.instagram.com/realtmgstudios/ TMG Studios Twitter: https://twitter.com/realtmgstudios BROOKE https://www.instagram.com/brookeaverick https://twitter.com/ladyefron https://www.tiktok.com/@ladyefron Hosted by Brooke Averick, Created by TMG Studios and Brooke Averick, and Produced by TMG Studios and Brooke Averick. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to build a supplement company from scratch, serve over 100,000 customers, and land in Vitamin Shoppe nationwide? In this inspiring episode of The Self Esteem and Confidence Mindset, we sit down with James Benefico, co-founder and CEO of Organic Muscle, to explore his journey from natural bodybuilder to successful entrepreneur building a business that's changing the supplement industry.James shares his story of creating a USDA Organic supplement brand in an industry full of junk and chemicals, the entrepreneurial challenges he overcame, the mindset required to scale a health business, and how fitness, discipline, and clean nutrition shaped his confidence and success as a CEO and natural bodybuilder.To find more from James:www.organicmuscle.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@AaronAbke

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Nathan Jones, CEO of Xlear, Inc.

Nathan Jones, CEO of Xlear, Inc., details the benefits of xylitol in dental and respiratory health products such as nasal sprays and chewing gums under the Spry brand. Nathan advocates for the FDA to allow anti-cavity claims for xylitol and other compounds despite the current monopoly of fluoride in such claims. They question the efficacy and potential downsides of fluoride, and explore alternative dental health interventions. The episode also covers xylitol's role in preventing tooth decay, respiratory health benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing legal challenges with the FTC. Discussions highlight the potential implications of oral health on systemic diseases like cardiovascular disease and Parkinson's, and emphasize the importance of nasal hygiene alongside dental care.

Cavities are still one of America's most common diseases – despite decades of fluoride use. Xlear is calling on the FDA to recognize xylitol as an active anticaries ingredient so dental professionals and patients can finally access this powerful tool. Xylitol, a safe and natural compound, has been proven to stop cavity- causing bacteria and dramatically reduce tooth decay.The American Dental Hygienist Association (ADHA) in conjunction with Xlear, a leader in hygiene products, filed a citizen petition with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) urging the FDA to formally recognize xylitol as an approved Over-the-Counter (OTC) active ingredient in dental hygiene products, including toothpaste, rinses, gels, mouthwashes, gums, and lozenges.Xylitol addresses the root cause of tooth decay. In contrast, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel. Fluoride has almost no effect on the bacteria that causes tooth decay. Studies have shown that xylitol has a higher “protection factor” in fighting cavities than fluoride.“Dental decay is the single most common communicable, chronic disease inflicting Americans today. Moreover, dental decay is also closely associated with driving other serious health risks - ranging from heart disease to diabetes,” said Trisha O'Hehir, MS, RDH.Key Facts:·         Nearly 90% of U.S. adults have experienced tooth decay.·         Studies show xylitol can reduce cavities by up to 80%.·         Xylitol works by neutralizing acid-producing bacteria and protecting enamel at the source.·         Xylitol is safe if swallowed, a key benefit for children.·         Widely used internationally, xylitol is already found in gum and oral hygiene products. The petition requests that FDA: Amend 21 C.F.R. Part 355 to list xylitol as an approved anti-caries active ingredient. Alternatively, issue a new OTC monograph under Section 505G of the FDCA.Learn more about the Petition hereXlear is one of the nation's leaders in effective xylitol hygiene products, available inpharmacies, big box stores, natural retailers and online.XLEAR's Retailers: Walgreens, CVS, Vitamin Shoppe, Target, Kroger, Sprouts, Natural Grocers and most natural products retailers nationwide.XLEAR's Online Retailers: Amazon, iHerb, Lucky Vitamin, and Vitacost.comLearn more at Xlear.com or SprySmile.com 

  In this episode, tune in for the importance of negotiating your salary and recognizing your value in the workplace. Guest Candyce Hunt shares her own experiences and introduces the VALUE framework (Value documentation, Assert clear boundaries, Loudly communicate, Unapologetically ask, and Evidence) to help you secure the pay you deserve. Included are key signs to identify if you're undervaluing yourself, as well as practical steps to advocate for better compensation. Make your next step to being properly valued and compensated at work today.   Timestamps 00:45 Identifying the Career Clearance Track 02:59 Candyce's Personal Journey 05:12 Recognizing Limiting Behaviors 13:44 The Value Framework Explained 19:42 Practical Tips for Negotiation 31:25 Final Thoughts and Resources   About Candyce Hunt Candyce is a Career Wellness Coach, Speaker, and Leadership Consultant with nearly 20 years of experience leading teams at Ross, Dollar General, WeWork, and Kohl's. Her journey began as an 8-year-old choir director in Chicago, sparking a lifelong passion for influence, harmony, and growth. She helps professionals and organizations thrive through career strategy, leadership development, and business consulting. Candyce has partnered with Payscale, LA SHRM, ASHA, and The Vitamin Shoppe to drive impact through coaching and training. Her mission is to help people pivot with confidence and lead with clarity. Connect with Candyce Connect with Candyce on LinkedIn Download the Career Blueprint Here    _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Me Connect with me on LinkedIn From Zero Responses to Multiple Offers: Download The 5 Essential Steps Checklist Click here to learn about coaching

On Episode #181 of the PricePlow Podcast, we sit down with twin brothers Ryan Gardner (CEO) and Jeff Gardner (CMO) of Bucked Up at their Salt Lake City headquarters. This conversation reveals the remarkable journey from internet marketing pioneers to building a billion dollar million supplement empire, complete with helicopter rides over Utah's mountains and an inside look at their massive manufacturing facility. The Gardner brothers share their incredible origin story that began with exact match domains and affiliate networks in the early 2000s, leading to a deer antler spray windfall thanks to Ray Lewis's Super Bowl controversy in 2013. From those humble beginnings, they built Bucked Up into the #1 pre-workout at GNC and Vitamin Shoppe, pioneered micro-influencer marketing before it was cool, and recently expanded into energy drinks with major partnerships including SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles -- all in pursuit of their "billion or bust" vision. Celebrating the Launch of Bucked Up Black Ant This episode also features the exclusive launch details of Black Ant, their revolutionary new pre-workout Mike and Ben helped formulate, featuring industry-first ingredients like RipFACTOR and Creasol SSAT alongside traditional creatine monohydrate (Black Ant is Bucked Up's first creatine-based pre-workout). The conversation explores everything from their innovative protein drinks with light carbonation to their thoughts on peptides, healthspan optimization, and the future of the supplement industry. https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/bucked-up-ryan-jeff-gardner-181 Video: Inside Bucked Up HQ with the Gardner Brothers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzGuzuGtuWQ Detailed Show Notes: From Internet Marketing to Supplement Empire (0:00) – Introductions: Meeting the Twin CEOs in Salt Lake City (2:15) – The Internet Marketing Origins: Early 2000s Digital Pioneers (6:30) – The L-Arginine Domain Score: Learning the Power of Exact Match Domains (9:45) – The Ray Lewis Windfall: Deer Antler Spray Goes Viral (14:30) – Entering the Pre-Workout Market: Innovation Through Transparency (20:45) – Micro-Influencer Marketing: Ahead of the Curve (24:45) – Dominating Retail: The Path to #1 at GNC and Vitamin Shoppe (28:00) – The Beverage Evolution: Learning Distribution Networks (31:30) – The Brand Beyond Products: Culture and Community (34:00) – Product Innovation Partnership: The Black Ant Story (38:00) – Revolutionary Strength Ingredients: RipFACTOR and Clinical Research (42:30) – Premium Positioning and Market Strategy (45:30) – Diversified Pre-Workout Portfolio Strategy (48:30) – Ready-to-Drink Pre-Workout Development (54:30) – Protein Innovation: Light Carbonation Revolution (58:45) – Protein Dosing Philosophy and Market Positioning (1:06:30) – Celebrity Partnerships and Brand Building (1:10:30) – Market Expansion and Penetration Strategy (1:12:30) – Peptides and Future Health Optimization (1:17:30) – Healthspan vs Lifespan Philosophy Where to Follow Bucked Up and Connect Ryan Gardner: LinkedIn&... Read more on the PricePlow Blog

Sabir Semerkant is an Ecommerce expert, growth strategist, and founder of Growth by Sabir, where he helps brands unlock compounding growth through a proven framework called the 8D Method. With over 20 years of experience and $1B+ in revenue driven, Sabir has worked with everyone from Fortune 500s to DTC challengers, scaling brands like Canon, Tommy Hilfiger, and Sour Patch Kids along the way.Today, Sabir leads growth across a wide range of eCommerce verticals, helping founders break through revenue plateaus with precision systems and operational clarity. His work is grounded in execution: simplifying tech stacks, identifying bottlenecks, and unlocking 2X results without chasing shiny tactics. In 2024 alone, his Rapid 2X program delivered a 108% average lift across 29 brands in just 21 days.Whether he's unpacking the real reasons most brands stall, breaking down why resumes don't equal results, or showing how to grow without over-relying on Meta ads, Sabir brings a direct, operator-first mindset to the conversation.He shares what it takes to scale in today's crowded DTC space without gambling on paid, blindly outsourcing growth, or losing sight of what truly moves the needle.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:39] Intro[01:23] Learning marketing like a software upgrade[08:53] Improving CTR with daily copy experiments[14:55] Centralizing KPIs to drive clear decisions[19:11] Knowing your numbers without excuses[21:47] Segmenting real buyers from email signups[23:35] Testing ideas before scaling campaigns[28:32] Repositioning your product to fix weak growth[31:03] Aligning your whole team on brand growth[40:30] Avoiding the agency swap loop for growthResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeTurning Promising Ecom Brands Into Profitable Winners https://growthbysabir.com/Follow Sabir Semerkant https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabirsemerkantIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Dustin Elliott, the Senior Brand Manager at The Vitamin Shoppe. Join them as they explore misconceptions about performance enhancement, the impact of gut health on overall wellbeing, emerging trends in the supplements industry, and the future of nutrition and healthcare.

In this episode of the PricePlow Podcast, we welcome TJ Dillashaw, two-time UFC Bantamweight champion turned supplement entrepreneur, to discuss his journey from elite fighter to founder of Wild Society Nutrition. This fascinating conversation explores how TJ's decades of competition experience, combined with hard-learned lessons about supplement quality and industry practices, led him to create a brand focused on clean, effective products for athletes and health-conscious consumers alike. TJ shares his evolution from someone who “didn't really care” about supplementation early in his career to becoming deeply knowledgeable about nutrition and ingredient quality. His frustrations with taking products he wouldn't personally use, despite being sponsored by major brands, ultimately drove him to create Wild Society with a focus on natural flavoring, natural sweeteners, and third-party testing through Informed Sport certification. The discussion reveals a fighter's mentality applied to business, emphasizing transparency, quality over margins, and building products that can “outlive” their founder. Subscribe to the PricePlow Podcast for more conversations with industry innovators who are reshaping the supplement landscape through science, quality, and authentic purpose! https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/podcast/podcast/tj-dillashaw-168 Video: TJ Dillashaw Discusses Wild Society and Fighter-to-Founder Journey https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc7jThXfLZI Detailed Show Notes: From UFC Champion to Supplement Innovator (0:00) – Introduction: Welcome TJ Dillashaw (3:00) – The Garage Education: Learning Beyond the Classroom (6:00) – From Sponsored Athlete to Brand Creator (8:00) – Informed Sport Certification: Doing It Right from Day One (11:00) – Product Development: Creating What He Wished He Had (14:00) – The Clear Whey Revolution (16:00) – The Business Partnership Evolution (19:00) – Natural Market Strategy: Building for Sprouts and Beyond (22:00) – Demographic Understanding and Market Expansion (25:00) – The Self-Worth Journey and Entrepreneurial Purpose (28:00) – The Longevity Protein: Innovation with Heart (30:00) – Family Legacy and Personal Stories (32:00) – Wrestling Origins, Athletic Foundation, and Mental Toughness (34:00) – Flow State and Peak Performance (37:00) – Training Evolution and Current Routine (38:00) – Manufacturing Transparency with Actus Nutrition (40:00) – Women's Health and Supplement Science (43:30) – Recovery Protocols and Infrastructure (47:00) – Energy Drinks and Market Positioning (50:00) – Caveman Eats: The Unexpected Hero Product and Supply Chain Challenges (53:00) – Future Vision and Brand Building Where to Follow and Learn More Wild Society Nutrition: wildsocietynutrition.com Wild Society Nutrition on PricePlow Instagram: @wildsocietynutrition TJ Dillashaw: @tjdillashaw Retail Locations: Sprouts Farmers Market, Vitamin Shoppe,... Read more on the PricePlow Blog

This week's podcast kicks off with senior reporters Gabriela Barkho and Melissa Daniels discussing Klarna's latest earnings, which showed that a growing number of the BNPL service's users defaulting on their loans. In other news, Dockers and The Vitamin Shoppe were both acquired by respective companies. Levi Strauss announced the sale of khakis maker Dockers to Authentic Brands Group for $311 million. The Vitamin Shoppe was bought out by Kingswood Capital Management and Performance Investment Partners for an undisclosed amount. Both sales are examples of struggling retailers trying to find their footing with modern customers. Later in the episode (22:18), Daniels speaks with Liran Golan, the chief supply chain officer at Bansk Beauty that holds hair care brands Amika, Eva NYC and Ethique. They discuss how tariff policy changes can impact brands beyond the duties themselves, with a ripple effect on how brands make, manage and move their product.

If you remember from about two weeks ago…within the opening portion of another content piece about the specialty retail brand, I stated that “while we patiently wait for the approved chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring proposal involving Franchise Group, which is the portfolio company that owns The Vitamin Shoppe.” And I recognized that a big announcement would be coming soon because I've closely watched the court proceedings, which was a promise I made to my audience within that original Franchise Group Chapter 11 bankruptcy from more than six months ago. Moreover, at the very end of that November 2024 content, I mentioned that "while it's highly-unlikely…The Vitamin Shoppe could be owned by a group that isn't the current debt holders. And if that happens…well, this content series will get a whole lot more interesting!" But here we are! On April 16, 2025, Kingswood Capital Management and Performance Investment Partners announced that they had collectively entered into a definitive agreement to acquire The Vitamin Shoppe from Franchise Group. And subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close later within this current quarter. But I already know what everyone is going to think next…how much? Well…along with assuming liabilities, the private equity firms will make a cash payment of $193.5 million to purchase the assets of The Vitamin Shoppe. But after learning that information…you might be thinking, isn't that acquisition price quite low for a specialty retail brand that was generating over a billion dollars in revenue, reporting YoY growth, and achieving operational profitability in the trailing twelve months before the May 2023 Franchise Group management buyout? If I had all the updated financial information, I could answer definitively…but compared to the revenue or EBITDA multiples of CPG brands that you usually hear me breakdown, retail trade businesses are much lower. Yet, we can assume the private equity firms involved got a great deal, especially because of the Franchise Group bankruptcy situation. Though, if The Vitamin Shoppe was never off-limits, and the Franchise Group were always looking to make deals…why not sell it before the bankruptcy filing (you know) when you arguably have more leverage to increase the potential purchase price? Well…as we've learned through this bankruptcy process, Franchise Group did indeed gauge market interest and initiated a broad search for any potential buyers in connection with a potential sale of The Vitamin Shoppe on a few occasions, but no actionable proposals were received. And before I dive into any of my strategic commentary or predictions, it's probably contextually relevant to understand the asset purchase agreement stated that The Vitamin Shoppe was currently not growing revenue and failing to meet the Franchise Group profitability targets. So, this is not a specialty retailer that was thriving (or obviously in a place of strength) heading into a challenging consumer spending year…within a category reverting back to growth rates seen prior to the “Great Shutdown” era. But for the final part of my latest first principles thinking content, I'll analyze how the new ownership potentially impacts The Vitamin Shoppe. Also, I'll look for any established patterns of action within the private equity buyers...like when Kingswood Capital Management acquired G Fuel in 2023, it replaced the CEO. And that's exactly what it will officially do when The Vitamin Shoppe transaction closes...bringing back the previous CEO Sharon Leite.

Is the “Age of Ozempic” reshaping The Vitamin Shoppe? In May 2024, The Vitamin Shoppe introduced a telehealth service called Whole Health Rx by The Vitamin Shoppe that safely and seamlessly connects patients with licensed healthcare providers in real time…streamlining access to GLP-1 agonist medications, both branded and compounded versions (that is until the FDA recently updated its drug supply shortage list, making compounding a FD&C Act volitation). Moreover, these telehealth services are offered alongside The Vitamin Shoppe's industry-leading education resources, as well as nutritionist-recommended supplements to help optimize the weight loss journey for healthy results. So, with Whole Health Rx by The Vitamin Shoppe targeting personalized care verticals, instead of a wide range of treatment and care needs like GNC Health…the better comparable company analysis would be Hims & Hers. And interestingly enough, within a piece of content from November 2021…my words arguably created the foundation for this entire Whole Health Rx by The Vitamin Shoppe strategy! But a behavioral change that arguably started gaining importance about a decade prior…when more individuals began viewing themselves as consumers in the healthcare market compared to solely being patients. Because of that, consumer healthcare has begun evolving from a reactive, one-size-fits-all approach to a distinctively proactive, personalized, and integrative approach. But as you'd imagine that marketplace evolution has created immense opportunities. Though, this why specialty supplement retailers must have a foundational mindset that place customers at the center of a flexible, almost choose your own adventure style of shopping…acknowledging wellness-minded consumers are also more “solution aware” due to the sheer access to information substitutions. And this was partly why my “vision for the future” included specialty supplement retailers and pharmacy (drug channel) retailers converging into wellness retailers. Specialty shouldn't mean singular solution, thus a retailer like The Vitamin Shoppe must continue evolving its total solutions to become a bigger part of the wellness journey. Alternatively, “trying to be everything to everyone” can be problematic, which is why I mentioned earlier about The Vitamin Shoppe essentially taking the “depth” over “breadth” page out of the Hims & Hers strategic playbook. By increasing optionality of solutions for only its most compelling valuable consumer cohorts, The Vitamin Shoppe can more effectively deliver an experience that removes barriers and provides access to better health that is approachable, personalized, and convenient. And while I believe physicians are quickly becoming more educated around how patients can manage the early phase of the process, what side effects to anticipate, and how to mitigate or manage those side effects…there's also a significant education and nutrition support role for specialty retailers, as consumers look for help navigating this new, confusing “Age of Ozempic” world. But with the launch of its new private label brand, GLP-1 Support from Whole Health Rx by The Vitamin Shoppe…the specialty retailer recognized it was well-positioned to fill a critical gap in the market for tailored nutritional support. But then for the final portion of my latest first principles thinking content, I wanted to give my outlook for Whole Health Rx by The Vitamin Shoppe.

An almost billion-dollar supplement brand portfolio (you've likely never heard of before) just turned CBUM into a corporate sellout. So, let's talk about it! And even if this deal announcement was released publicly on April 1st…I guarantee there's nothing foolish about this M&A activity. But before I give you the legitimate “insider” deep dive insights I can guarantee won't be found anywhere else on the internet…it would be prudent of me to start by covering key press release details from the RAW Nutrition, BUM Energy, and The Quality Group M&A news. And since the bulk of my audience is based within the United States…maybe beginning with the “buy side” would be ideal. The Quality Group was formed in December 2020 with the business combination of the sports nutrition brand ESN and nutritional products brand More Nutrition. ESN was founded in 2004…and is now the sports nutrition categorical leaders within the German market. And then More Nutrition was founded 13 years after ESN but has leveraged a strong social media presence and influencer marketing…landing the nutritional products brand within the top 3 German market categorical leaders. The Quality Group is headquartered north of Hamburg (Germany) and employs more than 1200 people…mostly due to it currently producing more than half its massive product range in house. And while 2024 full-year financial results weren't released yet, The Quality Group reported revenue of around 680 million Euros (or about $750 million dollars) in 2023. Furthermore, the fourth largest global private equity firm, CVC Capital Partners, acquired a majority stake in The Quality Group about three years ago…valuing the business at 800 million Euros (or about $880 million dollars). So, as you can assume from that mid-2022 business valuation to the beforementioned revenue amount reported 18 months later…the two founders staying operationally active, CVC Capital Partners injection of liquidity, and experienced management team CVC brought on have grown the business substantially (and quickly). But maybe it was that last point, surrounding the desire to find a strategic growth partner and them allowing founders to stay operationally active, that ultimately led to this specific M&A transaction. So, effective immediately…RAW Nutrition's Co-Founder and CEO, Domenic Iacovone, and six-time Classic Physique Mr. Olympia Champion and RAW Nutrition co-owner Chris Bumstead will both become co-owners of The Quality Group. Moreover, RAW Nutrition and The Quality Group will remain independent partners as they seek to build long-term value for their consumers. Founded in 2019, Raw Nutrition had moderate success initially but has exploded since Chris Bumstead came onboard as a co-owner in September 2021. Over the last few years, Raw Nutrition has been recognized as the “Brand of the Year” by both GNC and The Vitamin Shoppe. Additionally, RAW Nutrition was recognized in 2024 as not only the fastest-growing sports nutrition brand (but fastest-growing CPG company overall) by Inc. Magazine. And I alluded to this earlier, but BUM Energy, an upstart energy drink brand created by Chris Bumstead in July 2023…was also included within The Quality Group acquisition. And the final portion of my latest principles thinking content will analyze the future outlook and possible implications surrounding the various stakeholders involved...including the RAW Nutrition, BUM Energy, The Quality Group, CVC Capital Partners, and the supplement industry.

HUGE SHOW: It has been a long week as Corey Feldman attempted to drag our good names through the mud last Saturday! Jim and Them are back to respond and everyone is excited! Disgusting Filth Pigs: Corey Feldman dubs us "disgusting filth pigs" and "inhuman" with crazy accusations that we were taking pictures of his girlfriend near his house and causing his divorce. Challenge: Jim puts a challenge out to Corey Feldman, to end this beef once and for all so we can officially enter the friendship arc. COREY FELDMAN!, SHOW STOPPER!, LET'S JUST TALK!, DON CHEADLE!, BOOGIE NIGHTS!, WOLFPAC!, DON'T TURN YOUR BACK ON THE WOLF PACK!, EROK!, NWO!, OBAMNA!, TTS!, EXCITED!, LONGEST WEEK!, EVIL!, SICK!, TWISTED!, SCUMBAGS!, WOLFPACK 2.1!, OGUS!, EDGING ALL WEEK!, OBAMNA!, WRESTLEMANIA!, FIRST SUPERCHAT NAME!, POWDERKEG!, FALLOUT!, ZEN FELDMAN!, VIDEO!, DONATIONS!, ACCUSATIONS!, INSTAGRAM LIVE!, SPEED ROUND!, NEW NAMES!, FINSTA!, EX-WIFE!, SUSANNAH SPAGUE!, CDOGG22!, PETTY!, COMPLIMENTS!, HACKING!, PARENTS!, SPRAGUE!, YEEHAW!, ALL CONNECTED!, HORUSEYEZEN!, BUT DADDY I LOVE HIM!, FAIREST PODCAST!, NOTHING BUT FAIR!, DOCUMENTARY!, STOLEN!, PUT UP A WEBSITE!, WILL STOP AT NOTHING!, SEEK ATTENTION!, DISGUSTING FILTH PIGS!, BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU!, HDM!, REFUND!, ORDERS!, WEB STORE!, HACKS!, DEBUNKED!, FBI!, POLICE!, NSA!, BELITTED!, AYO!, PAUSE!, MASE!, CAM'RON!, GOONIES!, SEAN ASTIN!, LETHAL WEAPON!, DANGEROUS!, WORMWOOD!, VITAMIN SHOPPE!, PODCASTS!, WARNING!, RPG!, SPELL!, POP CULTURE!, HALLUCINATION!, COCOBUNS!, THOUGHTS!, PRAYERS!, LEGISLATION!, KILL BILL!, NUMBERS DOWN!, LEGISLATION!, FELDMANUAL!, ADRIEN SKYE!, HAUNTED!, CAST OF CHARACTERS!  You can find the videos from this episode at our Discord RIGHT HERE!

Can you name the health and wellness retailer that generates between four to five times more revenue selling categorical products online than the combined efforts of GNC and The Vitamin Shoppe? And here's a hint for you…it's not Amazon! Since the bulk of my audience is located within the United States, I'm going to assume that iHerb probably wasn't the first health and wellness online retailer that popped into your head. So, despite its massive multibillion-dollar success…iHerb isn't widely known in the U.S. market, mostly because the vast majority of its commercial activity happens internationally. But before blooming into a global powerhouse, iHerb began almost three decades ago as a Yahoo store selling St. John's Wort supplements online. And after the founder forgot to disable the international orders feature when the website launched, iHerb started getting orders from countries like South Korea. But rather than turning off the feature, iHerb decided to start fulfilling them. As sales started to grow, iHerb opened its first fulfillment center in 2002…marking the beginning of a strategic expansion that will soon include nine state-of-the-art logistics operations across the United States, Asia, and the Middle East. And because of its relentless focus on revolutionizing logistics solutions, iHerb can serve the health and wellness needs of customers located in 180 countries…maintaining an average global shipping time of less than five days and offering free shipping in 80 countries. Moreover, iHerb strives to create a localized shopping experience by translating its shopping platform into 22 languages and accepting more than 80 different currencies. Furthermore, iHerb has expanded its online marketplaces presence…reaching more consumers worldwide through 25 digital stores on platforms like Amazon, Tmall, Rakuten, and Coupang. But after a 22-year long journey, from selling a single supplement product to becoming a global leader in the health and wellness industry…iHerb surpassed $1 billion in annual sales. And while that was an enormous accomplishment, it only took iHerb six more years to reach $2 billion in annual sales. In fact, iHerb exceeded $2.4 billion in net sales last year…reflecting a YoY growth of 14.5%. And then for the final portion of my latest first principles thinking content, I'll briefly share my professional experience with iHerb, but more importantly provide a helpful geographical expansion strategic framework (that includes how to best leverage iHerb) for all my brand operators within the intersecting CPG categories of functional foods, functional beverages, and nutritional supplements.

Applied Nutrition might be growing above its previous IPO expectations, but can the company derive enough freshness from strategic partnerships to generate the type of consistent returns needed to win the hearts of external market stakeholders? Applied Nutrition Plc (LSE: APN) is a leading sports nutrition, health and wellness brand, which formulates and creates nutrition products targeted at a wide range of consumers and sold in over 80 countries worldwide. There are several product ranges under the Applied Nutrition Group, including the namesake Applied Nutrition, All Black Everything (ABE), Body Fuel, and Endurance. Additionally, because of a trademark issue, the U.S. division sells its products under the AN Supps company name. Over the first six months of fiscal 2025, Applied Nutrition reported generating revenue just shy of $60 million, which I believe would be an increase of around 19% YoY. It was also noted in the statement that the adjusted EBITDA margin was in line with expectations. And while no actual numbers were provided, we can assume an adjusted EDITDA margin around the company's historical average of about 29%. But I'll use that last point around strong net profitability as my transition towards analyzing the “significant progress towards its growth strategy” delivered by Applied Nutrition recently...and that starts with an existing capital allocation pattern reinvested profits back into the company's manufacturing capabilities and operational facilities. From previous financial documents, we know that about 80% of all Applied Nutrition products are self-manufactured, which allows the company to quickly evolve its product strategy to access emerging trends and fill opportunity gaps across the marketplace (positively impacting growth of distribution points and shelf space with existing and new customers). But that vertical integration element can also be leveraged by Applied Nutrition for geographical expansion…with about 60% of its total revenue currently being captured from commercial activities outside its home market of the UK. But arguably the most important geographical expansion progress has been happening within the United States. And the most notable news would be the launch of “AN Performance” products across The Vitamin Shoppe stores nationwide. Additionally, and this is partly in reference to that “freshness” introductory comment, but the company partnered with global fruit brand Chiquita to launch “officially licensed flavors” of several AN Performance products. And while I'm just a single peanut in the gallery of many…I've tried each of those AN Performance Chiquita products and I'd rate them very high in terms of flavor matching, flavor likeability, and formulation approach. Now…does that mean anything? I've certainly (let's call it “knighted” because of the company's British roots) many of the functional CPG products well before they went on to outsized mainstream commercial success, but most of my early conviction built around certain new products is directly tied to the “freshness” (aka appealing distinctiveness) of its brand strategy. So, while having those great (glocalized) Applied Nutrition products is a foundational element to unlocking any chance of U.S. marketplace success…I'll breakdown why I'm still hesitant to make louder and more confident declarations on the company's long-term success within the U.S. market.

Happiness Solved with Sandee Sgarlata. In this episode, Sandee interviews Danielle Pashko. Danielle Pashko is a Functional Nutritionist and Chronic Illness Coach with two decades of experience. Her specialties are immune health, weight loss, digestive health, children's nutrition, women's health, Lyme Disease, and Long COVID. When Danielle became ill herself with Chronic Lyme Disease and Long Covid, her knowledge of nutrition and functional health wasn't what ultimately healed her. She immersed herself in internal Martial Arts (Tai Chi and Qigong), which ultimately were the most effective healers. She went from being chronically fatigued to currently practicing Wing Chun Kung Fu (Bruce Lee's practice) through building up her internal strength with these ancient disciplines. She now wants to share them with the world. Her expertise in the wellness field has led to articles and videos on health and beauty for several publications including The NY Post, PIX11 NY News, Fox and Friends, NY1 News, ABC News, CBS News, The Vitamin Shoppe, Chase Bank, USA Today, Reader's Digest, I24 News, YPO and more. She is the author of Weight Loss Mistakes Even Healthy Chicks Make and Smile at Your Challenges. Connect with Danielle:Website: https://soulhakker.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulhakker/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PashkoWellness/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesoulhakker Connect with Sandee: Website: www.sandeesgarlata.comPodcast: www.happinesssolved.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/coachsandeesgarlataTwitter: www.twitter.com/sandeesgarlataInstagram: www.instagram.com/coachsandeesgarlata

We have a great show planned for our listeners today, we will share a Revolutionary all-natural approach to upper respiratory and oral care health. We shared about fluoride in the water supply, ways to support oral care, and ended with respiratory tips for the cold months ahead.Our guest today is our good friend, Nathan Jones.  It has been over 2 decades now (2000) since he founded Xlear, Inc., the xylitol-product based company whose revolutionary all-natural approach to upper respiratory and oral health has improved the quality of life for people around the globe.Most allergens enter the body through the nose, although the mouth and eyes are also common entry points. Keeping these gateways to the body clean is of utmost importance during allergy season if you want to reduce symptoms and not rely on antihistamines. There are other products out there, such as Xlear Nasal Spray with xylitol, which can help keep the nasal passage clean and clear of seasonal allergies, all without the negative side effects that antihistamines can cause. The addition of xylitol allows Xlear to be hypertonic, without causing the uncomfortable burning sensation that accompanies traditional saline nasal sprays. This hypertonicity means that more moisture is being pulled into the nose to help wash out contaminants and ensure the nose and sinuses are hydratedIf you're on the lookout for an antihistamine-free remedy to your allergies this season, give Xlear a try.Xlear Nasal Products are available at Walgreens, CVS, Vitamin Shoppe, Rite Aid, Target, Kroger, Publix, Sprouts, Natural Grocers and most natural products retailers nationwide. They can also be purchased online, including on Amazon.Spry Dental Products are available at Wegmans, Vitamin Shoppe, Sprouts Farmers Markets, Natural Grocers, and most all Natural market retailers.  They can also be purchased online, including on Amazon.Learn more about Xylitol 101Check out Xlear's NEW online store

Want a quick estimate of how much your business is worth? With our free valuation calculator, answer a few questions about your business and you'll get an immediate estimate of the value of your business. You might be surprised by how much you can get for it: https://flippa.com/exit -- In this episode of The Exit: Rose Hamilton, CEO and founder of Compass Rose Ventures, shares insights from her extensive experience helping CPG brands scale and prepare for exits. With a background at companies like Best Buy, The Vitamin Shop, and Pet360, Rose now specializes in working with founders and investors in the health, wellness, pet, beauty, and food industries. Rose emphasizes the importance of staying connected to customers while scaling, noting that founders often lose touch with their core market as they grow. She advises founders to begin with the end in mind when preparing for an exit, implementing proper systems and processes early, and building strong communities around brands. Rose highlights the value of the crucial "three Ps" that founders should have in place within their business - people, process, and systems - and warns against common pitfalls like trying to do everything alone or hiring too quickly. For more details and insights from her entrepreneurial journey, listen to the latest episode of The Exit. -- Rose Hamilton has 20+ years of experience working with and advising 50+ consumer companies of all sizes, including Petsmart, The Vitamin Shoppe, Nutrafol, and Mend. Rose has helped raise over $70M in funding and generated over $600M in additional revenue by applying her proven omnichannel and community-led methodology. She specializes in providing consumer executives with direct, thoughtful, and strategic outside perspective. Website: https://compassroseventures.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosehamilton/ Check Out Flippa's Data Insights Tool: https://flippa.com/data-insights -- The Exit—Presented By Flippa: A 30-minute podcast featuring expert entrepreneurs who have been there and done it. The Exit talks to operators who have bought and sold a business. You'll learn how they did it, why they did it, and get exposure to the world of exits, a world occupied by a small few, but accessible to many. To listen to the podcast or get daily listing updates, click on flippa.com/the-exit-podcast/

We have a great episode planned for you today and will cover “The Holidays” & Our Digestion.Joining us today is Naturopathic Practitioner, Jane Jansen of the Tree of Life Wellness Center in Massachusetts. Jane has the unique perspective as a medical professional who, prior to becoming a naturopathic practitioner, spent years in Radiology and Ultrasound doing research and performing tests on patients with varying types of health problems.We look forward all year to family traditions enjoying our favorite recipes for food, beverages and treats during the holidays. Traveling to see friends and family or hosting special events. But during the holidays our digestive systems can take a beating.But let's be real, most of the daily habits that keep our digestion healthy during the year, get put on hold during the holidays. Over-indulging, staying up late, and stress physically and emotionally is part of most holidays as there are so many things to do!So, what do practitioners recommend to keep our digestive system balanced, yet still be able to enjoy the rich treats this holiday season?According to Jane Jahnsen, a Naturopathic practitioner, I often advise my patients to practice moderation and balance their holiday food and drink choices, On the actual holiday don't worry about enjoying yourself, unless you have specific health concerns that your doctor says otherwise. But don't give yourself excuses to overindulge every day leading up to or every day after the holiday. That includes food, treats, and beverages. Be mindful of becoming over stressed, or not sleeping well too. Your body talks to you all the time, listening to it and it will tell you when you, and your microbiome, are out of balance.Let's remind everyone that Dr. Ohhira's Probiotics are available at Natural Grocers, Sprouts, Vitamin Shoppe, Whole Foods,and other natural health retailers across the U.S. Also available online.Visit www.essentialformulas.com for a retailer near you.Learn more about Jane

Live from the Kyowa Hakko USA booth at Supply Side West 2024 in Las Vegas, Mike and Ben sit down for a functional beverage roundtable featuring Lou Ferrer (MacroCap Labs) and Darin Decker (Applied Nutrition USA). MacroCap Labs is a dietary supplement manufacturer that has aggressively moved into the canned beverage industry — they're the ones responsible for canning the wonderful XPO NRG drinks that were on display at the expo. Applied Nutrition needs no introduction in this space, but Darin joined us just before the exclusive AN Performance launch at The Vitamin Shoppe. This is a follow-up to the previous Kyowa discussion at SupplySide West 2023, #118: Ghost, Glaxon, & Cellucor on Branded Ingredients: Kyowa Panel at SSW 2023. The conversation highlights the shift in consumer preferences towards products with research-backed benefits, citing the decline in alcohol sales and the trend of more conscious consumption decisions. The panelists emphasize the role of education and access to information in driving this change, with Darin sharing the impact of resources like Ben's content in educating the market. The discussion then explores the challenges and trends in beverage manufacturing, with Lou providing insights on the need for simplicity and consistency in formulations. The panel also delves into the strategies for market penetration, with Darin emphasizing the significance of distribution, influencer marketing, and providing acute sensations and benefits to consumers. Quality control and ingredient stability emerge as crucial factors, as the panelists underscore the importance of ensuring a consistent experience to build long-term consumer loyalty. https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/kyowa-hakko-beverage-panel-ssw-2024 Video: Lou Ferrer and Darin Decker Dig Into Functional Beverages https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HY9F5H2lts (00:00) – Introduction and Collaboration (02:15) – Consumer Shift Towards Functional Ingredients (05:45) – Education and Access to Information (08:45) – Consumer Identification and Community (12:45) – Influencer Marketing and Consumer Awareness (16:00) – Challenges and Trends in Beverage Manufacturing (19:45) – Distribution Strategy and Market Penetration (25:00) – Quality Control and Consistency (31:00) – Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects Where to Follow Darin and Lou Lou Ferrer on LinkedIn Darin Decker on LinkedIn AN USA on PricePlow MacroCap Labs Website Thanks to Kyowa Hakko USA for hosting, and to Lou and Darin for joining us in our second annual get-together! You can listen to our conversation from 2023. Subscribe to the PricePlow Podcast on any platform, and leave us a great review on iTunes and Spotify!

It took only a year, but it seems MusclePharm has again become a victim of product line extension creep. For those unaware, the supplement brands that are within the FitLife Brands portfolio are now categorized in three segments: Legacy FitLife Brands, which is broken into two sub-segments…NDS Products (which are a collection of brands mostly sold in the GNC franchise system), iSatori Products (which are a collection of brands sold through a diversified retail mix), and then Mimi's Rock Corporation Products (which are a collection of brands mostly sold on Amazon), and MusclePharm. In total, the FitLife Brands portfolio is sold through more than 20,000 retail locations globally. In the third quarter of 2024, FitLife Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FTLF) had revenues of $16 million…which was up 15% YoY. But though that YoY growth rate obviously looks strong, it's important to remember that those reported results were greatly impacted by the MusclePharm acquisition that closed in October 2023. While there's strategic initiatives going on at legacy FitLife Brands and Mimi's Rock, the most intriguing segment within FitLife Brands is also currently its smallest...MusclePharm. In the third quarter of 2024, MusclePharm segment revenue was $2.5 million. And if you were wondering about YoY comparatives, let's just say the Eric Hilman run MusclePharm bankrupt version outsold this current version. But that's probably an apples-to-oranges comparison because Eric Hillman was focused on survival by any means necessary, and FitLife Brands is attempting to make strategic business decisions that support and optimize long-term growth. But while the sales channel mix of MusclePharm is currently 50/50 wholesale and online…it's very likely the brand's biggest long-term opportunities will come from offline retail. FitLife Brands has been making progress with new wholesale partners…noting that it secured placement for MusclePharm's Combat Sport protein bars in several regional grocery and convenience chains. Moreover, FitLife Brands also announced that it would be launching a new advanced premium product line extension called MusclePharm Pro Series. The product lineup is said to currently consist of nine SKUs…and will be sold exclusively at The Vitamin Shoppe starting in the first quarter of next year. And here we go again! This has been a central theme within the MusclePharm story for much of the last decade…and what ultimately killed the sports nutrition brand. MusclePharm has chased off-brand trend after off-brand trend through line extensions…totally wrecking any semblance of what the brand stands for, and basically losing all emotional connection with consumers. Instead of supporting the brand/customer long-term, MusclePharm focused on pandering to retailer requests for this (or that) exclusive line extension. And while line extension creep at MusclePharm obviously started way before the acquisition, it's surprising that FitLife Brands didn't highlight that underlying driver of failure and learn from those past experiences. But all this shows me is that FitLife Brands still has no vision around MusclePharm. FOLLOW ME ON MY SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LINKEDIN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TWITTER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠INSTAGRAM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FACEBOOK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/joshua-schall/support

INTRO (00:00): Kathleen opens the show drinking a Forager Honey Rye Ale from Crosstown Brewing in Memphis. She reviews her weekend playing The Ryman in Nashville, sharing the history of the iconic building. TOUR NEWS: See Kathleen live on her Day Drinking Tour.COURT NEWS (21:29): Kathleen shares news on Chappell Roan's support for her hometown LGTBQ event and she and Taylor Swift rack up Grammy nominations, and Stevie Nicks finished recording her Christmas duet with Jason Kelce.TASTING MENU (4:40): Kathleen samples Wild Huckleberry gummy grizzlies, Gibble's homestyle potato chips, and Korean Lay's Cucumber chips. UPDATES (35:10): Kathleen shares updates on TGI Friday's unused gift cards, and NY Post journalist declared dead by Martha Stewart is actually alive and writing.“HOLY SHIT THEY FOUND IT” (42:28): Kathleen is amazed to read about the discovery of a lost Amazon city in the rainforest, and Amelia Earhart's plane was reported found but ended up being a giant pile of rocks. FRONT PAGE PUB NEWS (47:50): Kathleen shares articles on a raccoon falling through the ceiling at LGA Airport, Barnes & Noble is expanding, Vitamin Shoppe files for bankruptcy, major corporations are calling work-from-home employees back to the office, police hunt 43 monkeys that escaped from a research facility, Leinenkugel's brewery is closing in Wisconsin, a mysterious “woyote” dog is caught on camera in Minnesota, and Notre Dame's bells ring out in Paris for the first time since the 2019 fire. WHAT WE'RE WATCHING (38:20): Kathleen recommends watching “Lee” on Amazon Prime, and “Somebody Somewhere” on HBO Max. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Modern Retail Rundown, an overview of the potential importing tariffs the retail industry faces, as proposed by Trump's incoming administration. Elsewhere, retail bankruptcies continue as companies like The Vitamin Shoppe and Blink Fitness seek bailouts to avoid going out of business. Finally, Shein has brought on another legacy American retailer, The Children's Place, to sell on its marketplace.

Franchise Group Inc. just voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, which maybe means something to The Vitamin Shoppe…but probably less than you initially assume. Last week, there were rumblings in the legacy financial media that Franchise Group Inc., the owner of specialty retail brands including The Vitamin Shoppe, was preparing to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy within the next week. Then, this weekend, I get an email from a PR agency (representing The Vitamin Shoppe) providing me with a nice, pre-packaged quote…likely because The Vitamin Shoppe leadership knew I'd be creating a “what does this news really mean” content for supplement industry professionals (many of which own, lead, or work at vendor brands). About five years ago, The Vitamin Shoppe was in the midst of an aggressive strategic turnaround plan under new CEO…when it was determined that the best go-forward strategy included selling itself to an entity (at the time) known as Liberty Tax for $208 million. After that acquisition, Liberty Tax would change its name to Franchise Group, Inc. and go on to acquire several other franchise businesses. Over the next 3.5 years, it would operate as a publicly traded entity until it was decided in May 2023 that the portfolio would be taken private through a $2.6 billion management buyout. The group that bought Franchise Group was led by then-CEO Brian Kahn…but included a consortium of other investment banks and private equity firms (like B. Riley Financial). But this is where things get a bit messy…because a handful of months later, Brain Kahn (amid a criminal investigation into his role in a securities fraud case tied to the collapse of a defunct hedge fund) stepped down as the CEO. Yet, that's not the primary reason why Franchise Group just filed voluntary petitions for protection under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. The actual explanation requires knowledge of the Franchise Group portfolio businesses, recent operational performance, and a bit of economics 101. At the time of the management buyout, Franchise Group owned an assortment of retail assets that obviously included The Vitamin Shoppe, but also Pet Supplies Plus, Buddy's Home Furnishings, Badcock Furniture, American Freight and Sylvan Learning. And in the last quarter of performance (with that retail brand portfolio), Franchise Group generated $1.1 billion in revenue…but had a net loss from operations of about $108 million. And the economy hasn't materially improved (or shifted) since that May 2023 management buyout timing…so Franchise Group started shedding troubled assets. But that wasn't enough…especially as even The Vitamin Shoppe and Pet Supplies Plus underperformed operationally to Franchise Group expectations. So, then when you consider that the Federal Reserve hadn't started cutting interest rates until just recently…there was just too much debt on the balance sheet, and the business continuity outlook was grim without seeking out bankruptcy protection. But because this bankruptcy lists assets and liabilities each between $1 billion and $10 billion…it will most likely take months to be finalized. So, consider this the first content piece in a series. But based on what we know right now, my latest first principles thinking content will breakdown how this Franchise Group bankruptcy impacts the different stakeholders of The Vitamin Shoppe including employees, customers, vendors, and the corporate entity. FOLLOW ME ON MY SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LINKEDIN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TWITTER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠INSTAGRAM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FACEBOOK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/joshua-schall/support

In today's episode, we cover significant updates shaping the furniture industry, from major store closures to shifts in consumer behavior and key performance metrics. Here are the top stories:1. American Freight Store ClosuresNationwide Closure: American Freight will shut down all stores following parent company Franchise Group's Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Store closing sales began on November 5th, driven by sustained inflation and economic challenges in the durable goods sector.Broader Impact: The closures represent a notable shift in the retail landscape, particularly impacting the value-oriented segment and displacing a large workforce.Restructuring at Franchise Group: The group has secured $250 million in financing to support other holdings, such as Pet Supplies Plus and The Vitamin Shoppe.2. Consumer Shopping TrendsRise in Online Purchases: While 50% of consumers still prefer in-store shopping, online purchases are rising, especially in bedroom sets, office furniture, and lighting.Drivers of Digital Shift: Key incentives for online shopping include better pricing (27%), free delivery (25%), and broader selection.Influence of Reviews and Social Shopping: Furniture shoppers rely heavily on reviews, with 31% checking them before buying, and more than a third shopping with family or friends for input. Popular items include mattresses, lighting, and bedroom sets, with younger generations and families showing higher purchase rates.3. Industry Performance MetricsDecline in Orders and Shipments: August orders dropped 7% year-over-year, with shipments down 10% from 2023. However, shipments did show a 14% improvement from July.Backlogs and Recovery Outlook: Industry backlogs fell by 10% compared to last August, and experts cautiously predict potential market recovery by mid-2025, contingent on a housing market rebound.4. Retail Foot Traffic TrendsTop Performers: HomeGoods led Q3 retail visits with an 8.1% increase, followed closely by Costco at 7.2%. Consistent growth throughout 2024 highlights Costco's ability to attract value-conscious consumers.Discount Retailers Gain Traction: BJ's Wholesale, TJMaxx, and Marshalls saw foot traffic gains above 5%, while Target and Walmart experienced modest increases.5. Wayfair's E-commerce ResilienceMarket Share and Loyalty Initiatives: Despite a slight 2% revenue decline in Q3, Wayfair's average order value rose by 4.4%, driven by optimized pricing, logistics, and a subscription-based rewards program. The company has gained market share every quarter since late 2022.Positioned for Growth: Wayfair's strategy of cutting operational costs and enhancing customer experience has positioned it well for future growth as the market stabilizes.Stay Updated: For ongoing insights into the furniture industry, subscribe to Furniture Industry News to stay informed on trends, data, and essential news impacting your business.

opular health sites claim meat is pro-inflammatory—but what does the science say? Vitamin Shoppe announces it will add prescription testosterone to its sports supplement offerings; Over half of ginkgo leaf extracts adulterated—as are many other herbal products sold by sketchy companies; What does TSH reveal about thyroid function? Should minerals be avoided when taking thyroid medication?

At one point during our conversation with Four Sigmatic founder and CEO Tero Isokauppila, he recounts a story about playing golf with the CEO of a large and well-known U.S. retailer. The executive told Tero that Four Sigmatic wouldn't be successful because of its esoteric brand name. It's fair to say that the CEO underestimated the trailblazing company. Founded in 2012, Four Sigmatic pioneered the now thriving category of mushroom-centric food and beverages. The brand markets a platform of organic ground coffee, protein powders, creamers and supplements that are infused with functional fungi, including reishi, lion's mane and chaga.  Four Sigmatic's flagship mushroom coffee is the leading ground coffee on Amazon, and is the anchor for its significant e-commerce business, which represents more than half of its sales. The brand is also represented at major retail chains, including Walmart, Whole Foods, Target, GNC, Albertsons and The Vitamin Shoppe and generates tens of millions of dollars annually. In this episode, Tero talks about how his personal background as part of the 13th generation of a Finnish farming family influenced his decision to launch Four Sigmatic, navigating an ahead-of-its-time trend, how he overcame “making every mistake a founder can make,” and how the company aligns category insights and innovation. Show notes: 0:35: Tero Isokauppila, Founder & CEO, Four Sigmatic – Tero and Ray kick things off with a brief chat about Kalsarikännit, a Finnish word with a very strange definition, before the entrepreneur talks about his family's farm, the reason why children generally avoid mushrooms and whether “sigma” will show up more often in Four Sigmatic social posts. Tero also explains how his parents' professions influenced his education and created a foundation for his foray into entrepreneurship, why he says “mushrooms chose me,” and how Four Sigmatic addresses consumer skepticism about fungi. He also talks about how the company planned and participated in sampling demos and events early into its development, the impact of sponsoring podcasts in the development of the brand, and how a boom in mushroom-infused food and beverages has affected awareness and misinformation about functional mushrooms. Tero also discusses the evolution of Four Sigmatic's package design and why the brand emphasizes functionality more than it has in the past, why he doesn't believe that great packaging is an indicator of potential success for early-stage brands, and why he views his brand's name as “part of our journey.” He also talks about Four Sigmatic's success on e-commerce and why the company needs to evaluate its strategy every 6-12 months, his perspective on investing time and resources on Amazon vs. DTC, why he advises new entrepreneurs that when it comes to product development “just do the one thing,” and why he describes category management as “both an art and a science.” Tero also explains how Amazon and Whole Foods are creating a synergistic omnichannel platform and talks about his funding strategy as an angel investor and how price and taste influence his perspective. Brands in this episode: Four Sigmatic, Annie's, Once Upon A Farm

On this episode of Flirtations, we're taking on the intriguing world of the "Good Guy with a Bad Boy Edge!" What makes this combination so irresistible? How can you navigate the unique dynamics of such a fella? What about dating this guy?! Whether you're drawn to the dependable nature of the good guy or the thrill and mystery of the bad boy, this episode offers something for you! With our guests Taylor Byrd and Knox Peake, we'll break down the characteristics that define these dual-natured individuals, discuss the challenges and benefits of dating them, and provide tips on how to find balance in dating this enticing individual. Tune in for a fun, lighthearted, and informative discussion that will leave you with a fresh perspective on love and dating. Whether you're currently dating a good guy with a bad boy edge or just curious about the allure, this episode is a must-listen! We'll also be getting into some "Southern Dating Secrets" as an added bonus! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for more dating tips and insights! About our guests:  The tea ain't the only thing sweet around here. An Alabama boy with a NYC mouth, giving you belly laughs and jaw drops like clock work, Taylor Byrd, who you may now as "Sweet T," has built a platform of 2 million+ across social media with his authenticity and candid takes about life. You can follow him on TikTok and Instagram! Knox Peake is a global adventurer and content creator who grew up and currently lives in North Carolina. Knox is passionate about the outdoors, travel, fashion, dogs, and more. He is an LGBTQ+ rights advocate and offers his audience daily inspiration and positivity. He grew his Instagram page organically and has partnered with brands such as Saucony Footwear, JCPenney, Swiss Army Knife, Land Rover, Ritz-Carlton, Food Lion, Sheetz, StarKist, Bojangles, LifeStance Health, The Vitamin Shoppe, Nutro Pet Food, and multiple beer brewers as well as many men's grooming brands. In addition, he has collaborated with various travel and hospitality organizations. He has multiple upcoming campaigns that are true to his heart and you can find him on Instagram and Threads @knoxpeake and his website www.knoxpeake.com. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy, with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic and romantic connection - to take center stage and transform lives for greater healing and ultimately, a deeper connection with the self. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

This installment of The Axis Effect features Rose Hamilton, Founder of Compass Rose Ventures. In a where breaking through consumer industries is more daunting than ever, Hamilton possesses a valuable toolset of experience that few can match. With over two decades of experience working with over 30 different private equity firms and consumer brands, including serving as the Chief Marketing Officer at Pet360 and the Chief Digital and eCommerce Officer at The Vitamin Shoppe. Now, she brings that wealth of experience to a wide range of industries through Compass Rose Ventures, where Hamilton and her team advise clients with the intent of helping growing brands achieve the necessary funding needed and eventually launch them to the forefront of mainstream consumer audiences. Hamilton discusses the importance of purpose-driven decision-making, why holding the proper individuals accountable to respective responsibilities is crucial to maintaining an effective infrastructure, and how taking the time to destress can be a game changer for leaders of any company. To learn more, tune in to “Driving Digital Profitability.”

Privia Health's Momentum Enabling Value-Based Care Privia Health is on an upward trajectory, and Dr. Bartley Bryt and Mark Foulke discuss some of the reasons why — including how they are engaging modern health consumers and reducing the administrative burdens of value-based care. All that, plus the Flava of the Week about The Vitamin Shoppe offering weight management services through a telehealth partnership. What do we need to know about nontraditional players in the wellness space, and how are they making fast inroads with digital health services?  Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen/

Jocko Willink admits that he made mistakes during his time in the military. The retired Navy SEAL lieutenant commander, author and entrepreneur says that, in some cases, his errors led to circumstances in which “things went terribly wrong.” Certainly, it's difficult to compare the experiences of leading soldiers on the battlefield and running a CPG company. But Jocko, who is the founder of better-for-you beverage and supplement brand Jocko Fuel, believes that in any situation when mistakes occur, it's important for the person in charge to take ownership, figure out a solution and find a way to make sure the problem doesn't happen again. That perspective is a core tenet of Jocko's leadership style, which guides Jocko Fuel. Born as Jocko Tea in 2018, the brand has evolved into a CPG platform that markets several product lines, including energy drinks, protein shakes, greens powder and hydration beverages. Jocko Fuel has a nationwide retail footprint and is carried at grocery chains H-E-B, Meijer and Wegmans along with GNC, The Vitamin Shoppe and 7-Eleven. We sat down with Jocko for a conversation about the development of Jocko Fuel, including why having a “military mindset” means more than you might think and how his personality and beliefs are embedded into every aspect of the brand. He also talks about empowering his team to navigate the complexities of running a modern consumer brand and its alignment with private equity firm Goode Partners, which invested $30 million in Jocko Fuel in 2022. Show notes: 0:35: Interview: Jocko Willink, Founder, Jocko Fuel – Jocko explains his daily reading habit, why he wakes at 4:30 AM each morning and how that routine has benefited him as a soldier and entrepreneur. He also explains how his military experience taught him to approach every situation with an open mind and to listen to feedback, the reason that Jocko Fuel energy drinks contain less caffeine than competing products, and why he isn't managing the brand's retail strategy. Jocko also explains what he means by “extreme ownership,” why he believes that the buck always stops with him, his perspective on competition, the influence of company investors on management decisions,his role in the promotion of Jocko Fuel, and the brand's pricing strategy. Brands in this episode: Jocko Fuel

Today is Monday, May 6, and we're looking at GNC vs. Vitamin Shoppe.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Brian Littlefield, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Jocko Fuel, as he shares his entrepreneurial journey and the strategic decisions that led to the company's success in the highly competitive energy drink and nutritional supplement industry. Brian discusses the initial challenges of balancing roles and leveraging each co-founder's strengths, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and admitting one's own limitations. His narrative underlines the transformative impact of partnering with Pete Roberts and Jocko Willink, highlighting how their unique skill sets and leadership styles contributed to Jocko Fuel's growth and innovation in product development, particularly within the niche of clean, health-focused ingredients.The discussion explores the intricacies of navigating the business landscape, from managing direct-to-consumer strategies to expanding into retail spaces like Vitamin Shoppe and utilizing Amazon for broader reach. Brian articulates the company's strategic approach to growth, including their cautious entry into the retail domain, the significance of understanding and leveraging Amazon's platform, and the importance of subscription-based models for sustaining long-term customer relationships. His insights reveal a nuanced understanding of market dynamics, emphasizing the necessity of a strong foundation in direct-to-consumer sales before venturing into retail, to mitigate margin dilution and enhance brand recognition.Reflecting on personal growth and leadership, Brian shares the evolution of his role within Jocko Fuel, transitioning from operational duties to focusing on his passion for product development. He candidly discusses the lessons learned in leadership, such as the value of patience, humility, and the ability to delegate, underscoring the importance of building a competent team and fostering a culture of trust and empowerment. His journey epitomizes the essence of entrepreneurial growth, not just in terms of business success, but also in the personal development that comes with navigating the challenges of co-founding a leading company in the wellness industry.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How Brian navigated the challenges of working with a co-founder, finding balance in their roles, and leveraging each other's strengths to drive the company's success.Jocko Fuel's journey to innovation in the crowded energy drink and nutritional supplements market, focusing on clean ingredients and a holistic approach, rooted in personal experiences and the quest for health and wellness.Insights into strategic market expansion, starting from a niche manufacturing company to becoming a recognized brand in the functional foods and beverages space.The strategic decision-making process behind entering retail spaces and online markets like Amazon.How Jocko Fuel has built a strong brand identity through authentic messaging and strategic marketing, focusing on their unique value proposition in the health and wellness sector.The importance of subscription-based models for sustaining long-term customer relationships and driving revenue, with over 50% of Jocko Fuel's customers on recurring subscriptions.Brian's personal growth as a leader, the challenges of scaling a team, and the shift towards focusing on areas of passion and expertise.How Jocko Fuel adapted to remote work, maintaining team connectivity, and the importance of face-to-face interactions in fostering team spirit and collaboration across remote teams.And much more...Resources:Connect with Brian: Website |

Brianna Lapaglia and Grace O'Malley are back from Cleveland after their second to last stop of their live show tour. Grace is back in Boston with family and explains how awesome it is to be back home. Bri discusses how she wants her daughter to be the first Navy Seal. The two talk about parenting and give their names of their future kids. Instagram: https://instagram.com/briannalapaglia?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://instagram.com/gracekomalley?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@briannachickenfry?lang=en https://www.tiktok.com/@gracekomalley?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/BChickenfry https://twitter.com/grace__omalley Our Merch: https://store.barstoolsports.com/collections/planbri-uncut?utm_medium=product_shelf&utm_source=youtube&utm_content=YT-AIJy4ZO6T_And-3oPmVqy7fbHHQZvL_8xAbHTriXz10cIbOOHsp0FNue6PB_FBHZl6r8PZqg2W0PlnMqgJGnFJzLXS3M6MRlYxTugQI652xkm3mwfRgzLJYBFRdfP-AfD6Pwz_DAvuJ-s4IB4j9Y1f5jb2q_Sht_nDv81ZIkrYVkMqhB2XWdxBhF https://store.barstoolsports.com/collections/omalley SUPPORT THE SHOW: Go to drinkpiratewater.com to find Pirate Water in a location near you or order it now on GoPuff! WANT TO WIN A TRIP TO NYC? Here's how: BUY a case of the Ghostbusters OxyShred Ultra Energy from The Vitamin Shoppe. Take a selfie, tag and follow @oxyshredenergy. Use #OxyShredBarstool and get in the running to win a fully expensed trip to our show in New York City with a friend! Shop OxyShred 24/7 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJWM3FZP?maas=maas_adg_F18095D80190630004B12B596380D6A4_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maasYou can find every episode of this show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Prime Members can listen ad-free on Amazon Music. For more, visit barstool.link/planbri

The girls are back in the big apple after returning from their live show in Nashville. Brianna Lapaglia and Grace O'Malley are accompanied by famous stuntman, stand up comedian, and actor Steve O! Steve O discusses his new pay per view special coming out called “Steve O's Bucket List”. The show is officially available today, November 14th. Instagram: https://instagram.com/briannalapaglia?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://instagram.com/gracekomalley?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@briannachickenfry?lang=en https://www.tiktok.com/@gracekomalley?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/BChickenfry https://twitter.com/grace__omalley Our Merch: https://store.barstoolsports.com/collections/planbri-uncut?utm_medium=product_shelf&utm_source=youtube&utm_content=YT-AIJy4ZO6T_And-3oPmVqy7fbHHQZvL_8xAbHTriXz10cIbOOHsp0FNue6PB_FBHZl6r8PZqg2W0PlnMqgJGnFJzLXS3M6MRlYxTugQI652xkm3mwfRgzLJYBFRdfP-AfD6Pwz_DAvuJ-s4IB4j9Y1f5jb2q_Sht_nDv81ZIkrYVkMqhB2XWdxBhF https://store.barstoolsports.com/collections/omalley SUPPORT THE SHOW: Go to drinkpiratewater.com (http://drinkpiratewater.com/) to find Pirate Water in a location near you or order it now on GoPuff! Go to https://HelloFresh.com/planfree (https://hellofresh.com/planfree) and use code planfree for FREE breakfast for life! One breakfast item per box while subscription is active.  WANT TO WIN A TRIP TO NYC? BUY a case of the Ghostbusters OxyShred Ultra Energy from The Vitamin Shoppe. Take a selfie, tag and follow @oxyshredenergy. Use #OxyShredBarstool and get in the running to win a fully expensed trip to our show in New York City with a friend! Shop Oxyshred on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NP6HT6Vmaas=maas_adg_448430A70B4652AD035F56BCE6E2AB5A_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NP6HT6V?maas=maas_adg_448430A70B4652AD035F56BCE6E2AB5A_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas) Shop OxyShred on EHPlabs:  https://ehplabs.com/products/oxyshred-ultra-energy-12-pack_pos=1&_psq=oxyshred+energy&_ss=e&_v=1.0 (https://ehplabs.com/products/oxyshred-ultra-energy-12-pack_pos=1&_psq=oxyshred+energy&_ss=e&_v=1.0) Go to   https://THEOUAI.com (https://theouai.com/)  for 15% off sitewide and enter promo code  BRI .You can find every episode of this show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Prime Members can listen ad-free on Amazon Music. For more, visit barstool.link/planbri