In the Sauce: Recent Episodes
Heritage Radio Network
A podcast about building consumer brands. When Haven's Kitchen launched a product line of fresh sauces, founder Alison Cayne knew they were jumping into something crazy. In her effort to get educated, she started meeting with everyone she knew and respected who could advise her - from production gurus to marketing and social media mavens. Then she started having those conversations as a podcast so that other entrepreneurs can learn from them as well. This is the story of building Haven’s Kitchen Sauces. But it’s also the story of every growing brand. Because we’re all In the Sauce.
Theme music: "Jazzy Frenchy" by bensound.com
Annalea Krebs is the founder and CEO of Social Nature, an online product discovery platform with over 1M shoppers. On this episode of ITS, Annalea and Ali talk about the consumer journey, from trial to life-long fan, and how it's more important than ever to take the risk out of trying new products.
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Catherine Campbell is the founder of One For the Books, a marketing consultancy that specializes in reviving older brands in food, home, hospitality, and culture. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Catherine discuss vibes: what brands do when they lose them, and how to know when you're a brand at risk.
Photo courtesy of Chelsea Lane Photography.
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McCall Gridley is Head of Sales & Partner Experience at Tastemade. On this episode of ITS, McCall tells Ali how brands can partner with Tastemade to create content that not only creates awareness, but also drives sales. They discuss the ever-evolving state of food media, how to think about content and consumer mindset, and why a media ecosystem is better than a single channel strategy.
Photo courtesy of Tastemade.
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Jane Miller is the CEO of Rudi's Rocky Mountain Bakery and CPG veteran with over 30 years of executive experience. On this episode of ITS, Jane and Ali talk about the fundamentals that have always been true of sustainable CPG brands, the qualities of great leaders, what makes brands fail, and why "build it and they will come" is a very bad idea.
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Steven Singer is the founder and CEO of FODY Food and a 25-year CPG veteran. On this episode of ITS, Steven and Ali talk about the pros and cons of a building a niche product, how social media has truly changed the game in CPG, and how founders can protect themselves and their companies in this new era.
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Clara Paye is the founder and CEO of UNiTE, best known for its line of globally-inspired protein bars. On this episode of ITS, Clara and Ali talk about building data stories for retailers, resources for emerging brands, and Clara's mission to democratize wellness.
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Sasha Shor is the founder of Holy Tshili, a new condiment company that all began with a mashup of everything bagel seasoning, chili crisp, and furikake. On this episode of ITS, Sasha shares her lessons from a decades-long career as an award-winning creative leader, storyteller, and collaborator.
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Kevin Griffith is the founder and CEO of Amplifi, an operational finance firm that works with CPG companies. On this episode of ITS, Kevin and Ali talk about key financial functions that emerging brands must understand to protect cash and stay healthy during tough times.
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Amrit Richmond is a CPG strategist best known for the content & community she’s worked to build since 2017: Indie CPG. On this episode of ITS, Amrit and Ali extol the virtues of cross-brand collaborations and cover everything from Faire emails to retail exclusive products.
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Ben Bacon is the founder of Lentilful, the instant meal company that launched 18 months ago and is rapidly growing its distribution. On this episode of ITS, Ben shares his thoughts on product, market, consumer, and sales channels, and resources. It's a must-listen for very early stage food startup.
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Graham Edward is the Head of Emerging Brand Partnerships and Canada Brand Partnerships at Instacart. On this episode of ITS, he walks Ali through how emerging brands can leverage Instacart to both maximize sales and build awareness on the platform.
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Yasameen and Sheilla Sajady are the founders of Maazah, the refrigerated condiment company, best known for it’s bold, tart, delicious chutneys. On this episode of ITS, the sisters talk Ali through how they've leveraged industry awards and accelerators to build efficiently and thoughtfully.
Photo courtesy of Quincy Street Kitchen.
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Malik Ducard is the Chief Content Officer at Pinterest, where he is responsible for setting the global content strategy. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Malik cover AI, the future of content, and how brands can work with Pinterest to reach and please consumers.
Photo courtesy of Pinterest.
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Jessica Bernheim is the Head of Marketing and Strategy at Daring Foods. On this episode of ITS, Jess walks Ali through an often-used, yet misunderstood concept: brand strategy.
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Miles Soboroff is the Co-Founder of Zab’s – the datil pepper hot sauce company that has won over heat lovers across the US. On this episode of ITS, Miles and Ali talk about winning on Faire, the Why behind Foodservice, and how Zab's holds onto its messaging.
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Ethan Frisch and Ori Zohar are Co-Founders of Burlap & Barrel, the spice company deeply beloved by the chef community and home cooks, in search of spices that taste like they’re meant to taste. On this episode of ITS, Ethan and Ori tell Ali how they not only quintupled in Covid, but how they made sure to stay in the hearts and carts of consumers after the pandemic.
Photo courtesy of Burlap and Barrel.
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Vanessa McPhill is a Freelance Marketer and Amazon Ads Manager Partner who works with brands to craft online and offline strategies to drive awareness and growth. On this episode of ITS, Vanessa walks Ali through Amazon: How to think about it, why a full-funnel approach is key, why it's a retail and media partner, and what the heck A+ content is.
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Nicholas Naclero is Founder of Mmmly, the new classic cookie brand offering indulgent snacks that are actually good for you. On this episode of ITS, Nick and Ali talk about his learnings from the first 3 years of business, how our choices are now about efficiency, why the consumer has returned to the center, and his Wefunder campaign.
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Mark Haas is the CEO of the Helmsman Group, a company that has helped companies like Magic Spoon, Urban Remedy, Kellogg’s, and Haven's Kitchen build sustainable, scalable, and profitable CPG products. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Mark talk about innovation: what makes it great, why to build it from the ground up, and how to work best with an outside partner.
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Anna Whiteman is a Principal at Coefficient Capital, a multi-stage investment fund focused on consumer and technology investments. On this episode of ITS, Anna and Ali talk about what they saw at Expo West, beyond the brands and booths. They discuss the state of CPG today, how VC's are thinking about emerging brands, and why a return to pragmatism is a good thing for companies building in 2024.
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This episode is a little different. Adam Brown is the Founder and President of Sircle Media, a social media agency that specializes in helping CPG and Beverage brands win online and in-store. On this episode of ITS, Adam interviews Ali all about Haven's Kitchen's new product line: AIOLI! They go through innovation, sales, marketing - and the WHY and HOW of the new line. Ali shares an Amazon discount code toward the end, so listen up!
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Laurel Orley is the Co-Founder and CEO of Daily Crunch, the company that makes sprouted nut snacks with flavors like Nashville Hot, Dill Pickle and Cherry Berry. On this episode of ITS, Laurel tells Ali how she launched the company with a framework she learned during her career as a marketer at brands including #Dove #LiptonTea, #Suave and #Hellman’s.
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Maddie Kennedy is Senior Brand Manager at Haven’s Kitchen, and on this episode of ITS, she and Ali talk EXPO WEST. Maddie shares how she's planning on getting the most out of the biggest trade show in the industry: from brand collaborations, to evergreen collateral, to team happiness tips.
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Ray Goulbourne is a foodservice expert with experience at high growth CPG brands including Banza, Simulate, Mason Dixie, and Sir Kensington's. On this episode of ITS, Ray breaks the channel down for Ali: From defining objectives and choosing a segment, to execution and scale. There's even a cheat code in the last few minutes, where brands looking into foodservice can start their research.
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Melissa Seligmann is the COO at Thingtesting, a review and discovery platform built to help people discover and share their candid reviews of brands. On this episode of ITS, Melissa and Ali talk about what's hot, what's not, and how Thingtesting's new growth tools are helping brands showcase foot traffic, analyze basket data, and expose their products to a new, engaged consumer.
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Eleanor Hayden is the founder of Hayden Consultancy - a shopper marketing consulting firm that works with brands like Olipop, Magic Spoon, Dream Pops, Catalina Crunch, Purely Elizabeth, Haven's Kitchen, and more. On this episode (Eleanor's 2nd!) of ITS, Eleanor walks Ali through all the ways brands can spend on digital marketing with retailers (and Instacart)...Sharpen your pencils!
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Lia Haberman is a marketing consultant for brands including AT&T, Robert Half, Riot Games, Viral Nation, and more. She is also an instructor of Influencer Marketing and Social Media Marketing at UCLA Extension, and writes a weekly Creator Economy newsletter called ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) to help over 15K industry pros stay up to date on platform news, social trends, and brand campaigns. On this episode of ITS, it's all about the algorithms and how brands can optimize their social media in today's zeitgeist.
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Parker Olson is the founder of Forij, the naturally sweetened, low sugar granola and granola bars, packed with superfood ingredients and concentrated mushroom extracts. On this episode of ITS, Parker and Ali talk about the state of CPG, Parker's next move, and also, a little bit about mushrooms.
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Adria Campbell is the Chief Revenue Officer at Malk Organics, the premium, plant-based milk company known for it's celebrity-created Erewhon smoothies. On this episode of ITS, Adria walks Ali through the way she runs sales, the KPI's she's established for her team, how she hires, and what her secret is with buyers. They also talk the perils of seasonal sku's and why Social Nature is the demo of the future.
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Kendall Dickieson is the social media and influencer marketing consultant helping brands like Graza, Canopy, and immi become best friends with their consumer. On this episode of ITS, Kendall talks all things social, content, and how to make community more than a buzzword.
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Crystal Ung is the Founder and CEO of Bowlcut, the sauce brand named after everyone’s favorite 80s haircut, building next generation Asian-American flavor. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Crystal talk about Operating Principles, leadership, and how Bowlcut is the culmination of Crystal's life and career.
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Taja Dockendorf is the Founder and Chief Creative Director of Pulp+Wire, an award-winning consumer packaging, branding, and digital agency that's worked with brands like Petco, Magnolia Bakery, Bob’s Red Mill, and Vermont Creamery. On this episode of ITS, Taja breaks down what makes branding, digital content, and packaging both visually compelling and rooted in functionality and effectiveness.
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Hayley Painter is the co-CEO and co-Founder of Painterland Sisters, an organic skyr yogurt company a mission to connect consumers with family farmers. On this episode of ITS, Hayley tells Ali why she and her sister Stephanie began packaging their thick, creamy yogurt, how they're changing the narrative on dairy farming, and what the future holds for the sisters and their community.
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Nate Rosen is the founder of Express Checkout, a newsletter dedicated to the latest news and trends across CPG, retail, eCommerce, and supply chain. On this episode of ITS, Nate and Ali talk economic recovery, c-stores, and best practices for developing, writing, and building subscribers for newsletters.
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Marissa Hohner is the CEO & founder of Good Time Creative, the agency best known for creating trade show exhibits, experiential installations, influencer kits, and custom merch for brands like Chomps, Belgian Boys, Culture Pop, Ulta, Gatsby, Celsius, and Imperfect Foods. On this episode of ITS, Marissa and Ali talk about best ways to express your brand without spending more than you should, and what some brands may be missing without realizing it.
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Patrick Schwarzenegger is the CEO of Mosh, the brand on a mission to educate consumers about brain health. On this episode of ITS, Patrick shares how his experience as an angel investor has shaped MOSH, how brain health is evolving as a category, and why fixing your "leaky buckets" is critical to profitable growth.
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Chris Gallant is the CEO of Chamberlain Coffee, the brainchild of YouTube phenomenon Emma Chamberlain. On this episode of ITS, Chris and Ali talk about creator-founded brands, how they can pull apart from the personality that started them, the persistence of retail, and why "cans in hands" is a must for a coffee brand.
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Beatrice Dixon is the co-founder, Chief Innovation Officer, and CEO of the Honey Pot Company, a plant-derived hygiene powerhouse for humans with vaginas. On this episode of ITS, Beatrice and Ali talk about the origins of Honey Pot (it started with a dream), and the realities of the CPG business: from community management, to investor issues, to working with retailers focused on a "simplify to amplify" environment.
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Sabeena Ladha is the founder and CEO of Deux, the good-for-you cookie dough company. On this episode of ITS, Sabeena walks Ali through the processes she's honed after her years at Lays, Diamond Foods, McKinsey and M13. Hint: It's all about testing and learning.
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Lauryn Chun is the founder of Mother-in-Law’s, the crowd favorite brand that started the fermented foods craze way back in 2009. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Lauryn compare the economic environment today with 2010-2012, and discuss the creativity, scrappiness, and innovation that emerged from challenges.
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Grant Thomas is Chief Service Officer at Arc Retail Group, and has successfully launched over 100 items across 7 Walmart departments in 38 categories. On this episode of ITS, Grant breaks down Walmart for Ali: From the distribution and fulfillment details brands have to nail, to the velocity expectations and consumer profiles (that may surprise you).
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Taylor Lanzet and Maddy Rotman are the co-founders of Anytime Spritz, the new "farm-to-can" cocktail created with 100% regenerative wheat and fruit directly sourced from small-scale farmers. On this episode of ITS, Taylor and Maddy break down the opportunity and challenges of launching an RTD spirit and how important community is in the process.
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Katie Wilson is the founder and CEO of BelliWelli, the wellness brand known for its gut health-focused snack bar. On this episode of ITS, Katie tells Ali how Facebook groups, billboards, humor, and empathy built the brand we know today.
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Angela Vranich is the co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Little Spoon, the baby to big kid food subscription company making healthy, nutritionally optimized food for every eating stage. On this episode of ITS, Angela tells Ali the story of Little Spoon, and how they've grown exclusively on DTC by focusing on serving the needs of their growing community, both with new product innovation and through educational content for new parents.
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Stacey Hartnett is VP of E-Commerce and Marketing at Chomps, the better-for-you meat snack inspiring a healthier way of high-protein snacking. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Ashly (Haven's Content Director) chat with Stacey about the ever-evolving role of marketing, which channels support awareness vs. retention, and how Chomps grew from a DTC brand to one with 20k national grocery doors.
Photo courtesy of Chomps.
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Lisa Poe is the founder of LGPR, a talent management and brand marketing company. On this episode of ITS, Lisa and Ali talk about how brands can work with content creators and influencers to create meaningful partnerships and content that drive new consumers to said brands, and build loyalty with those who've already connected.
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Anthony Domenici is the co-founder of BASECAMP Consulting Group, a fractional CFO and bookkeeping team that offers a full-service suite of financial services for emerging brands. On today's episode of ITS, we get back into financials: What data every founder needs to know, more on why cashflow is key, and how to manage your burn.
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Janica Lane is Managing Director of Food & Beverage Investment Banking and Co-head of Consumer Investment Banking at Piper Sandler. On this episode of ITS, Janica and Ali talk about acquisition: from what strategics are looking for (hint, it's what we should all be doing anyway), to how they consider innovation, to how to respond when they start looking.
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Ju Rhyu is the Co-Founder and CEO Hero Cosmetics, the incredible skincare brand that launched in 2017 with one product, and sold in 2022 for over $600m. On this episode of ITS, Ju describes how she built a high growth, omnichannel, profitable company that is deeply loved by an engaged audience.
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Gary Hirshberg is the CEO of the Hirshberg Entrepreneurship Institute and Co-Founder and Chief Organic Optimist of Stonyfield Farm, the company he grew from a small organic farming school in New Hampshire in 1983 to the world’s largest organic yogurt company. On the 200th episode of ITS, Gary shares his wisdom about product, sales, sustainability, and the entrepreneurship journey.
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Will Nitze is the founder and CEO of IQ Bar, the plant based protein company for your brain and body. On this episode of ITS, Will and Ali talk about his "shower thoughts" on Linkedin, how IQBAR built on e-commerce first, why they skipped straight to conventional, and the pros and cons of platforming.
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Dan Bubniak is the Chief Growth Officer at Dirty Hands, the field sales, merchandising, and brokerage partner on a mission to support better for you food brands. On this episode of ITS, Dan and Ali talk about winning at retail and how it's a hands-on, point of sale, compounding game.
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Amy Zitelman is the co-founder and CEO of Soom Foods, the tahini brand known by every restaurant chef – and now more and more consumers- across the US. On this episode of ITS, Amy and Ali talk about building what you know with what you have, which means taking a real inventory of your resources, skill-sets, and tolerance, then keeping disciplined to scaling that before launching into other categories, channels or products.
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Ashley Rouse is the founder of Trade Street Jam Co., the cheffy, small batch jams made without pectin, thickeners or extra sugar. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Ashley talk about the journey, the wins, and the lessons along the path to scale.
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Greg Wank is a partner at and the leader of Anchin's Food and Beverage and Branded CPG Practices. On this episode of ITS, Greg and Ali talk margins, working capital, cash, and taxes. As Greg says, it's not just that the game has changed in 2023, it's that playing field is completely different.
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Erica Rankin is the founder and Chief Everything Officer at Bro Dough; a functional cookie dough available in Canada soon to launch a new line in the USA. On this episode of ITS, Erica tells Ali how she built her massive (60k+) Linkedin community and TikTok following (200k+) and how vulnerability and honesty have helped her grow and pivot her business.
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Christina Dorr Drake is the CEO and co-founder of Willa's, the only oat milk that uses whole, organic oats. On this episode of ITS, Christina and Ali talk about the alt-milk landscape, the resurgence of real sustainability, and how Christina managed launching mid pandemic and mid cancer diagnosis.
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Michelle Cordeiro Grant is the founder and CEO of Gorgie, the first clean energy drink built by women, for everyone. Prior to building Gorgie, Michelle founded Lively, a "leisurée" brand that she grew from concept to an $105M acquisition three years later. On this episode of ITS, Michelle talks about the mental muscle of entrepreneurship, why she thinks of Red Bull as the Victoria's Secret of the energy drink market, and what it really means to crowd source a CPG product.
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Kari Pedriana is Co-Founder and CEO of Green Spoon Sales, the national natural food and beverage sales broker, specializing in emerging CPG brands, including Primal Kitchen, Lesser Evil, Quinn Snacks, Smart Sweets, Chomps and Midday Squares. On this episode of ITS, Kari breaks down the broker role, how to best think of relationships with distributors, selling trade shows vs. marketing trade shows, and why Green Spoon launched its accelerator program, take root.
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Monica Watrous is the managing editor of Food Business News, which covers the latest trends, innovations and developments in the food and beverage industry. On this episode of ITS, Monica and Ali talk Expo West: Trends, highlights and lowlights. They also talk about trade industry press and what shifts Monica is seeing in the natural food industry.
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Photo courtesy of Sosland Publishing Company
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Grace Clarke is a marketing all-star who helps companies translate their visions and values into high-growth marketing programs. On this episode of ITS, Grace and Ali talk about Grace's road (Allure, Town and Country, Madewell, Derris, Graza, Jones Road, Curology...), how she helps emerging brands ask themselves, "Why, Why, and then Why again," and what every brand should be doing early on to set the foundation for success.
Photo courtesy of Spencer Kohn.
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Mike Salguero is the founder and CEO of ButcherBox, the incredible subscription service that delivers a variety of 100% grass-fed meat, wild-caught seafood, free-range poultry, and more, straight to your home. On this episode of ITS, Mike shares the story of how BB went from a 15k kickstarter to a $600m business, all without outside funding. On top of that, they've been profitable since day one. Ali may or may not get a little choked up when Mike talks about the loneliness that comes with being a founder, and how he drives his life toward energy-producing, not energy-sucking interactions.
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Justin Gill is the Founder of Bachan’s, The Original Japanese Barbecue Sauce. On this episode of ITS, Justin and Ali talk Costco, building a team, and the simple principles that have lead Bachan's to grow into over 14,000 retail doors in 3 years.
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Greg Lorenzo is Head of Marketing at Stockeld Dreamery, and prior to that, led marketing at Super Coffee. On this episode of ITS, Greg shares lessons from over 15 years of experience strengthening brands through experiential marketing, behavior analysis, and insights. His secret weapon is gathering lots of data and creating action plans for the team. Lots of books and studies in this episode!
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Val Geisler is the Customer Advocacy Lead at Klaviyo, an email and sms marketing automation platform. On this episode of ITS, Ali interviews Val and Haven's Kitchen Senior Brand Manager, Maddie Kennedy all about email marketing. They discuss everything from "Why email?," To opt-ins, segmentation, flows, and what metrics really show brand love and community.
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Ross Mackay is the CEO and founder of Daring, the leading plant-based chicken brand, on a mission to remove chicken from the global food system. On this episode of ITS, Ross and Ali talk about plant-based meat, highlighting its opportunities & the challenges. They also chat prioritization, leadership, and what it means to be a true partner.
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Amber Bylund is the VP of Sales Strategy at Siddhi Capital Holdings ("Siddhi"). With 15 years of experience working in the CPG industry, first at General Mills and Danone, then at A Dozen Cousins, Amber is now a member of Siddhi's diligence and strategy team. On this episode of ITS, Amber breaks down sales channels as well as her best practices for building out a sales function at an early stage CPG company.
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Rachel Krupa is Founder of Krupa Consulting & The Goods Mart, a convenience store for a new generation. On this episode of ITS, Rachel and Ali talk about the different ways brands can use PR - from SEO strategy to thought leadership. They discuss driving momentum during moments of growth and moments of building, and how Rachel built the Goods Mart as a place to launch products into retail.
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Ari Raz is the CEO of The Coconut Cult, the small-batch, coconut-based yogurt company. On this episode of ITS, Ari and Ali talk about the virtuous cycle of limited time DTC flavors and their impact on retail sales, how brands should think about 2023, and what it was like to go from Founder working with a CEO to a CEO working with Founders.
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Elly Truesdell is the Founder of New Fare Partners, Co-Founder of Made By Nacho, and the former Global Director of Local Brands & Product Innovation at Whole Foods Market. On this episode of ITS, Elly and Ali talk about consumer evolution, how food tech impacted the natural foods industry, and why some VC's take calls with companies they're likely not planning on funding.
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Anouck Gotlib is the CEO of Belgian Boys, the company bringing tasty European staples into households across America. On this episode of ITS, Anouck and Ali discuss Jim Collins' framework of "What can we be best at?", and Anouck's path from bootstrapping the company, to 8 digits in revenue, to bringing on Equilibra as an equity partner last year.
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Eric Skae is the CEO of Carbone Fine Food with 30 years of CPG experience in strategy, sales, branding, marketing, finance, and distribution. On this episode of ITS, Eric breaks down the elements of what makes a best in class brand, why WIIFM is his guiding principle, and how he frames his category stories with data.
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Jessica Young is the founder and CEO of Bubble, an e-commerce marketplace known as the "Etsy of Health Food." On this episode of ITS, Jess and Ali talk about the challenges early stage brands face when it comes to distribution, how Bubble can help solve some of those issues, and how brands can leverage some trends Jess is seeing in the changing consumer landscape.
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Jason Bidart is VP of Food Merchandising at Thrive Market and has been working in the supermarket industry for two decades. On this episode of ITS, Jason and Ali talk about the current grocery landscape, how brands can position themselves for greatness, what makes Thrive a different type of retailer, and what they're looking for in brand partners.
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Daina Trout and Vanessa Dew are the co-founders of Health-Ade, and are currently serving as Chief Mission Officer and CEO respectively. On this episode of ITS, they share the secrets of their success: Not only building a category-defining, massive brand, but doing it together as co-founders and friends. Part business advice, part founder support, this episode is filled with some of the best wisdom yet.
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Seth Goldman is the Co-Founder of Eat the Change, Co-Founder of PLNT Burger, Chair of the Board of Beyond Meat, and the Co-Founder of Honest Tea. On this episode of ITS, Seth shares the lessons he's learned growing teams, building brands, and rethinking industry standards.
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Chris Tiffin is the Founder and CEO of Aisle, a cash-back rewards platform that works entirely through text. On this episode, Courtnie, Ali, and Tiffin talk about the marketing challenge of retail: Who is buying your product in store? What else are they buying? How do you incentivize repeat purchase when it's all opaque? Aisle is one of the tools brands are using as part of the solution.
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Aishwarya Iyer is the Founder + CEO of Brightland, the deeply loved olive oil, vinegar, and honey brand. On this episode of ITS, Aish and Ali talk about channels, roadmaps, and playbooks, oh my! Spoiler: there isn't one way to build, or a "best" sales or marketing channel. There's what fits for the product, the team, and the vision.
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Alex Bayer is Co-founder and CEO of Genius Juice, the whole coconut smoothies. He is also the host of 2 CPG-focused shows – the 15 Minutes of Genius podcast, and a weekly Linkedin live with Wade Yenny called Friday Vibes. On this episode of ITS, Alex and Ali talk about bonding with your consumer, building daily use, and selling where your audience is. Note to self: Your product doesn't belong everywhere. Really.
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Jessi Freitag is an operations consultant and the host of the weekly Startup CPG Podcast, a show for early-stage food and beverage companies. On this episode of ITS, Jessi shares the tips, resources, and systems that can help companies facing tough scaling challenges. A must-listen for founders and logistics folks in the industry.
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Tobias Peggs is the Co-Founder and CEO of Square Roots, the CEA (controlled environment agriculture) company on a mission to bring locally-grown food to people in cities around the world, all year round. On this episode of ITS, Tobias and Ali discuss how Square Roots went from a moonshot idea to a minimally viable product to 5 climate-controlled indoor farms using AI to make farming viable for humans and our planet.
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Courtnie Beceiro is the Head of Marketing at Haven's Kitchen and has been working with Ali since the brand was sold in 14 Whole Foods Stores back in 2018. On this episode of ITS, Courtnie and Ali chat all things HK, from team to marketing, to wholesale in general.
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Courtney Boyd Myers is the founder, CEO, and CMO of AKUA, the company making the world's first meat-alternative products made from kelp with regenerative ocean farming. On this episode of ITS, CBM and Ali talk about everything from kelp, to consumer taste buds, to meatless meat, to why it's so important to work hand in hand with your co-packer.
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Paul Voge is the CEO and Co- Founder, with his wife Maddie, of Aura Bora, the sparkling water made with herbs, fruit, and flowers. On this episode of ITS, Paul and Ali talk about how Aura Bora is communicating their values and differentiating itself from other sparkling waters. Whether it's brand voice, their flavors, or limited additions, Aura Bora is defining what craft water looks like at scale.
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Kevin Lee is the Co-Founder of Immi, the better-for-you Asian American food brand that invented the world's first low-carb, high-protein, and 100% plant-based instant ramen. On this episode of ITS, Kevin shares how he and his co-founder applied principles from their experiences as tech product managers to CPG and built a deeply engaged community. Before they even had a great product.
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Elle Lanning is Managing Director at Equilibra Ventures – a new platform from Daniel Lubetzky the founder of KIND Snacks. On this episode of ITS, Elle and Ali extract critical lessons we can all learn from KIND's journey: From its early days working to move out of the supplement set, to its iconic team culture, to the critical question it kept asking consumers.
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Jeremy Smith is the founder and CEO of LaunchPad, a full-service strategy, branding, and broker group focused on Costco. He has spent over 35 years in strategic sales, branding, and marketing, and has worked with some of the world’s most iconic brands including Apple, Chobani, Krave Jerky, and Bob’s Red Mill. On this episode of ITS, Jeremy breaks down Costco for the emerging brand: When it makes sense, what we need to have nailed down before the launch, what motivates a Costco buyer, and perhaps most importantly, when to decide you're NOT ready.
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Anna-Lena Kamenetzky is the Founder and CEO of Touch Capital, a venture/growth investment fund focused on consumer products and services companies. On this episode of ITS, Anna-Lena shares insights from her career in investment banking, large cap investment firms, and private equity to help emerging brands plan for the future.
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Mike Gelb is the host of the Consumer VC Podcast, where he interviews venture funders and CPG founders. On this episode of ITS, Mike shares the themes and tenets he's gathered from over 200 interviews, including the importance of an organic sales engine, why retail-focused CPG investors are a great bet, the end of cheap digital ads, and why truly unique brands will make it through the rough patch ahead.
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Bobbi Brown is a beauty industry titan, world-renowned makeup artist, best-selling author, and now, the Founder of Jones Road, the beauty brand that's recently gone viral on TikTok. On this episode of ITS, Bobbi and Ali talk authenticity: Knowing who you are, what makes you feel good in your skin, and how your business is, and should be a reflection of that. This is one to save - full of both business advice and life advice.
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Hailey Swartz is Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Actual Veggies, the chef-crafted veggie burger popping up in retailers across the US. On this episode of ITS, Hailey sings the praises of QVC, good ol' fashioned grocery stores, testing and learning with buyers, and surrounding yourself with just the right amount of people who know what they're talking about.
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Jake Deleon is the founder and CEO of Fila Manila, the company bringing next gen Filipino flavors to consumers across the US. On this episode of ITS, Jake and Ali talk founder-product fit, the value of curiosity and innovation, and why Amazon is a great learning tool... if you use it right.
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George Milton is Co-Founder and CEO of Yellowbird Foods, the spunky/spicy, Austin-based hot sauce brand made with real fruit and veggies. On this episode of ITS, George and Ali talk about identifying your core consumer, finding them, and building with them where they are. In George's words, "The most expensive and inefficient way to grow is trying to steal someone else's customer."
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Andrea Rose is the Produce category manager for the SoCal division of Albertsons Companies. She and her team are responsible for decisions about what their 336 stores carry, as well as how these items are retailed and merchandised. On this episode of ITS, Andrea and Ali talk about the massive ship that is the grocery store and how emerging brands can work with buyers to create wins for brands, stores, and most importantly, the consumer.
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Becca Millstein is the co-founder and CEO of Fishwife, the super-popular, super-groovy tinned seafood company bringing ethically sourced, premium, and delicious tinned seafood to pantries across the US. On this episode of ITS, Becca tells Ali the story of Fishwife mid-Covid, shares the value of asking a lot of questions, and talks about the power of collaboration as well as growing with a deeply dedicated fan base.
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Mark Samuel is the founder and CEO of IWON Organics, a legume-based food company. On this episode of ITS, Mark shares insights from 20 years of entrepreneurship and his authentic approach to business, and, well, life really. He and Ali talk about the four keys to building a strong business and what it means to create a "platform" brand.
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Amanda Roach is a partner at Amin Talati Wasserman, a law firm that supports CPG companies on the legal issues around the FDA, FTC, and Intellectual Property. On this episode of ITS, Amanda walks Ali through trademarking and IP 101: How to set it up properly, what to keep in mind as you work on branding and packaging, how to protect your brand from copycats, and how often you need to remember to think about this stuff.
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Eleanor Hayden is a shopper marketing and merchandising expert, having built platforms at Kodiak Cakes and Siete. On this episode of ITS, Eleanor walks Ali through both digital and in-store shopper marketing, as well as Instacart. Working with retailers to engage their customers has never been easier or more important, so for emerging brands building their grocery presence, this episode is a must-listen.
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Andrea Xu is the CEO and co-founder of Umamicart, an online one-stop-shop with Asian cuisine lovers at the very center. Umamicart has 2 missions: Helping customers seamlessly access delicious products across Asian cuisines; and secondly, providing a new digital window for mom-and-pop, immigrant-led businesses to reach consumers. On this episode of ITS, Andrea and Ali talk about learning how to ask the right questions, how building takes crazy turns, and why an early, dedicated community is so important.
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Miguel Leal is the Co-Founder & CEO of SOMOS, a new, U.S.-based Mexican food company that he founded with KINDsnacks veterans Daniel Lubetzky and Rodrigo Zuloaga. On this episode of ITS, Miguel shares the secret he's learned as CMO at KIND and Cholula: What every winning company must have, and how it powers the brand and the business to greatness.
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Eddie Revis is the CMO of Magnolia Bakery and formerly VP of Brand, Marketing & Media at Chobani. On this episode of ITS, he shares his marketing "tool kit." But even more importantly for emerging brands, Eddie breaks down the way to think about marketing. It's all about the outcomes, and what you're willing to spend for them. This one is packed, folks! Enjoy!
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Carrie Yang is the founder of Grouphugs, a YouTube growth agency helping businesses create profitable YouTube channels. On this episode of ITS, Carrie and Ali talk all things YouTube: Why it's a critical channel for CPG brands, how to build a full, holistic library of content, and best practices for editing, publishing, and community-building.
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Jake Kneller is Co-founder and CEO of Sweet Nothings, a CPG brand focused on creating truly-good-for-you snacks, starting with their line of frozen spoonable smoothie cups. On this episode of ITS, Jake and Ali talk about how Sweet Nothings used consumer insights to not only help them rebrand but to move their placement in the grocery store freezer... which then grew velocity. A LOT!
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Molly Fienning is Co-founder and CEO of Red Clay Hot Sauce, a modern take on Southern hot sauce. On this episode of ITS, Molly and Ali talk about the transition from restaurant small-batch to national distribution, what market really means, and how Red Clay has consistently grown 200-400% year over year since Molly took the helm.
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Wade Yenny is the Director of Grocery for Jimbo’s, San Diego’s Premier Natural and Organic Food Store, and has over 25 years of experience in all areas of retail including operations, merchandising, procurement, and category management. On this episode of ITS, Wade and Ali talk about the state of the grocery store in 2022, what his sales strategy would be if he were building a brand, and why as founders we should remember what it's like to buy a car.
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Jake Karls is Co-Founder of Mid-Day Squares, the fresh, functional chocolate bar that sold over 8 million chocolate bars in its first 3 years. On this episode of ITS, Jake walks Ali through the MDS approach: Part reality TV show, part community, part self-manufacturing. All unabashedly unfiltered.
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Ryan Rogers is Ali's former buyer at Target and worked in Produce at the retailer for 14 years. On this episode of ITS, Ryan shares a wealth of knowledge about how emerging brands should pitch and plan to work with Target, how we can set ourselves up for success, and a few insider tips and tricks. A gem, this one!
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Alex Piasecki and Patrick Mateer are the co-founders of Seal the Seasons, the national local foods brand that partners directly with growers to freeze and distribute local produce in more than 30 states and 4000 retail locations across the U.S. On this episode of ITS, Alex and Patrick talk about the secrets to their partnership, how the book "Traction" changed their business, how they bring their brand values to life, and why the best idea always wins.
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Noah Wunsch is the founder of Ruby, a new, super creative line of organic hibiscus water. On this episode of ITS, Noah and Ali talk about the value of going beyond what we’ve come to think of building a brand identity, how brands need to take time figuring out where can we provide value, and why founders should seek comfort in knowing the odds are against us.
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Carla Dunham is the CMO of Foxtrot, the company redefining the convenience store with fast delivery, proprietary inventory technology, and the vibe of a neighborhood store. On this episode of ITS, Carla distills 15 years of marketing expertise into a few clear directives for emerging brands. She also helps Ali understand what Foxtrot is looking for as they bring new items to their customers.
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Jordan Schenck is the CMO and Co-Founder of Sunwink. On this episode of ITS, Jordan tells Ali about her experiences at Equinox and Impossible, how to build a communications roadmap, and why her motto is launch, launch, and launch again.
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Lisa Carson and Connie Wang are the Co-Founders of Occo, the pre-measured spice pods popping up in kitchens everywhere. On this episode of ITS, Courtnie steps in for Ali and hears all about how Lisa and Connie think about in-house manufacturing, the importance of high-quality packaging, and how Occo is educating its consumers one recipe card at a time.
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Erin Linfonte is a Client Strategist at ForceBrands, the leading strategic recruiting firm for consumer brands. On this episode of ITS, Erin walks Ali through the hiring process: From best practices for job descriptions, interviews, and reference calls, to onboarding and setting both you and your new hire up for success. If you're growing the team, listen to this one!
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Jolene Delisle is the founder & creative director of The Working Assembly, a branding and creative studio that's worked with brands across the ecosystem, including Zola, The Museum of Ice Cream, Evian, Betches, FastAF, Sanzo, and Haven's Kitchen! On this episode of ITS, Jolene walks Ali through brand-building from the ground up: Why it's much deeper than a cool font or fun package, what mistakes founders make when we make our inspiration boards, and what truly makes a brand premium and lasting.
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Matt Weiss is the founder and CEO of Rind, the innovative, whole fruit, snack brand popping up all over the place! On this episode of ITS, Matt and Ali talk about sales channels, the rise of express e-commerce, how to think about all the emerging marketplaces, and what emerging brands can gain (beyond sales) as the market offers us more opportunities and places to get a product into the market.
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Ilan Nass is the Chief Strategist at Taktical, the marketing company that helps brands scale through Cross Channel Strategies, Creative Storytelling, and Efficient Media Buying. On this episode of ITS, Courtnie guest-hosts and asks Ilan ALL the questions: What is/how do emerging brands optimize SEO, how do brands maximize ads and set reasonable expectations, and after all the hoopla, what the heck happened with IOS14?
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Sashee Chandran is the founder and CEO of Tea Drops, the organic, ground leaf teas that dissolve into your cup - no bag or infuser needed. On this episode of ITS, Sashee and Ali talk about sales channels and alignment - not every product makes sense in every channel, and every product has a few channels that really make sense. They also chat subscription, why it can be huge for a brand, but why it also requires more attention than you think.
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Margaret Wishingrad is Co-Founder and CEO of Three Wishes, the cereal that is revolutionizing breakfast aisles in grocery stores across the US. On this episode of ITS, Margaret tells Ali how Three Wishes is building through grocery stores, optimizing organic marketing rather than ads, and focusing on one very basic consumer change.
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Caroline Cotto is the Co-Founder & COO of Renewal Mill, an upcycled food company fighting climate change. Azora Zoe Paknad is the Founder of Goldune, a new e-commerce brand and marketplace making sustainability more fun, more inclusive and more digestible. On this episode of ITS, Ali and her guests talk about expanding the consumer perception of sustainability, driving people toward more conscious consumption in a more inclusive way, and what founders can do to build real sustainability into their cultures early on.
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Chitra Agrawal is Co-Founder of Brooklyn Delhi, the Indian condiment company she grew out of a thriving food blog and cookbook. On this episode of ITS, Chitra and Ali talk about consumer education, when a founder needs to get out of the kitchen, and what it's like (or how to manage) working with your husband.
Image courtesy of Liz Clayman.
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LeShaun Smedley is the Manager of Corporate Supplier Diversity for the Kroger Company. He leads the effort to build a more diverse, equitable supplier base for the $121 billion grocery company that has over 2800 stores with 11 million customers a day. On this episode of ITS, LeShaun tells Ali how Kroger works, what we can bring to the table as emerging brands, what homework we need to do before engaging with Kroger, and why diversity is a massive strategic driver for Kroger.
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Mayssa Chehata is the founder and CEO of Behave, the low-sugar gummy bears made with better-for-you, all-natural ingredients and elevated flavors. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Mayssa talk about balancing market validation with gut instinct, why partnerships need to be focused on true value for everyone, and why feedback is the key to your success.
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Annalea Krebs is the founder and CEO of Social Nature, a product discovery and trial platform that helps emerging brands reach consumers, and build a loyal community. On this episode of ITS, Annalea and Ali discuss how Social Nature reconciles two seemingly opposing rules: Sampling is still critical and yet most brand discovery starts online. For wholesale-first brands, or DTC brands looking for a brick and mortar strategy, this episode is a dream.
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Eric Strickland, National Director of Alternate Channel Sales at Tessemae’s. On this episode of ITS, Eric and Ali talk Sales: form big picture strategy and the importance of a guiding WHY, to the details of a sales deck.
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Nona Lim is the Founder and CEO of Nona Lim, everyone’s favorite fresh Asian broths, noodles and stir fry kits. On this episode of ITS, Nona tells Ali a story of pivoting, observation, grit, and quick thinking — all of the skills she needed as a competitive fencer — and how she applied them to building the innovative brand she leads today.
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‘Yemisi Awosan is the Founder of Egunsi Foods, a ready-to-heat soup, starter, and sauce brand inspired by West African ingredients. On this episdoe of ITS, 'Yemisi tells her story and she and Ali talk about being a more private founder in the entrepreneurial world of ego and personality.
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Lola Adeyemi is Founder of "It’s Souper” a line of Afro-Fusion Soups & Sauces currently sold online and in Canada. On this episode of ITS, Lola and Ali talk about the beginning: What is it really like to go from idea to product to sales and why confidence is not about bravado but about trust in what you're building.
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Gail Becker is Founder and CEO of CAULIPOWER, the powerhouse company that has become a household name in 3 years. On today's episode of ITS, Gail and Ali talk about thinking big, listening to your customers and knowing when to say "no." Listen all the way through for a surprise.
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Armando Fuentes is a clinical psychologist who leads workshops and seminars focused on mental health, diversity, equity, and inclusion. On this episode of ITS, Armando and Ali discuss why DEI work is important, especially as early-stage companies begin to shape their values, and how to approach it.
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Megan Bent is the founder of Harbinger Ventures, an investment firm specializing in early-stage consumer brands led by exceptional female or mixed-gender founding teams. On this episode of ITS, Megan and Ali talk about the state of the CPG industry and what founders in today's environment can do to build smart companies with solid fundamentals, strong voices, and clear value for consumers.
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Jamila Owens-Todd is the owner of Golden Grocer, a natural health food store in St. Louis that has served the community for 40 years. A practicing Naturopath, Jamila took the helm at Golden Grocer after years of sending her patients there, just before COVID changed everything. On this episode of ITS, Jamila tells Ali her story, the story of Golden Grocer, and how she sees her store as a force of healing, not only for her community, and not only physically.
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John Foraker is Co-Founder and CEO of Once Upon a Farm and has spent more than 30 years in the natural and organic food industry, running businesses (Annie's for one) with a sharp focus on sustainability and social responsibility. On this episode of In the Sauce, John shares his hard-earned wisdom about the natural food industry: From mission and core consumers to dealing with grocery buyers and trade spend.
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Monisha Khushalani is CFO at Hu Products, the better for you snacks company known for their chocolate bars and hunks. On this epiosode of ITS, Monisha walks Ali through the finance piece of the puzzle: Accounting, modeling, cash flow, and more. And Monisha should know, she has led 3 companies through aquistions by the CPG "Big Guys," including Sir Kensington's sale to Unilever and Mondalez's recent purchase of Hu.
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Marissa Dobbins and Courtnie Beceiro are the General Manager and Brand Director at Haven's Kitchen. With Ali on vacation this week, the two of them take over ITS to talk about their experience leaving Fresh Direct to build a start up, their management styles, and how to work with a Founder (hint: learn how to say "no" to them...).
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Jing Gao is the Founder of Fly by Jing, the super popular spice and condiment company on a mission to bring premium, natural, uncensored Chinese flavors to the table. On this episode of ITS, Jing tells Ali her story, and the story of Fly by Jing. They discuss Fly by Jing in the broader context of centuries of false narratives about Chinese food in the US, and how a refresh of the brand led Jing to reclaim her name after 25 years.
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Alex Center is a designer and founder of the branding company CENTER. Prior to building his own studio, Alex worked at Coca-Cola, where he became Design Director, for 11 years. On this episode of ITS, Alex and Ali talk about what makes iconic brands magical, why packaging is just one part of a larger ecosystem (hint: you must also have a great product and the people are key), and why the best brands make you feel like a superhero.
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Adam Brown is the Founder and CEO of Sircle Media, a Social Media Strategy Firm based in New York. On this episode of ITS, Adam and Ali cover everything Social: from channel strategy to what Adam refers to as a "360 campaign." Social, according to Adam, is a paid game, so learn the rules, figure out where the secret mushrooms are, and play.
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Madeline Haydon is the founder and CEO of Nutpods, the unbelievably successful dairy-free creamer that launched with a Kickstarter campaign in 2013. On this episode of ITS, Madeline tells Ali the Nutpods story, shares her lessons for building a successful business, and explains why it's so critical that we know who we are, what makes us different and how we plan on challenging the status quo.
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Adam Epstein is VP of Growth at Perpetua, a software company that helps brands maximize their visability (and sales!) on Amazon, Instacart, and many other e-commerce channels. On this episode of ITS, Adam walks Ali through how Perpetua works, how investing in Instacart ads early can help a brand, how to maximize Amazon ads, and the massive opportunity we're all missing if we don't think of all of the ecomm channels as potential marketplaces.
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Paul De Joe is Co-founder of MUD\WTR, a DTC coffee alternative made of functional ingredients. On this episode of ITS, Paul and Ali talk all about hiring: What to avoid, how to map out the process, and why, as Netflix says "Culture is who you let go." Hint: this is a MUST listen if you're growing your team.
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Melanie Masarin is the founder of Ghia, a spirit-free aperitif designed to change the way we think about drinking and socializing. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Melanie talk about Ghia's launch this past June, the non-alc market, and how Melanie's turns at Dig Inn and Glossier informed the Ghia brand.
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Roxana Saidi is the founder of Tache, the first true pistachio milk in the United States. On this episode of ITS, Roxana tells Ali about Tache's 5-yr long journey from idea to product launch, why cracking the supply chain puzzle is a lot, but worth it, and how she plans on competing in the big bad world of alt milk.
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Ashley Jones is Director of Retail Execution at Dirty Hands, a company that makes over 3,000 visits a month to top grocery stores across the country, ensuring that your product is on shelf, priced correctly, ordered regularly, and has optimal real estate. On this episode of ITS, Ashley and Ali talk about the importance of building relationships on the grocery store floor, how brands can optimize sales, and why getting a ""yes"" from a buyer is just the beginning.
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Miguel Leal is the Chief Marketing Officer at Cholula, the hot sauce brand that sold to McCormick in November for $800m. Miguel has led declining brands through incredible turnarounds over the course of his career, and built marketing teams at KIND, Kettle Chips, Pop Secret, Diamond nuts (and more!). On this episode of ITS, Miguel walks Ali through the key tenets of marketing. From the importance of insights and focus, to building a great team, every minute of this episode is packed.
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Dan Frommer is the founder and editor in chief of The New Consumer, a publication about how and why people spend their time and money. On this episode of ITS, Dan walks Ali through a new survey (published today!) on consumer shopping habits and behaviour, his analysis of what's changed permanently, and what it all means for emerging CPG brands. This final episode of 2020 is a must for anyone building a brand post COVID. The survey is available at newconsumer.com
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Ali Bonar is founder and CEO of Kween, the organic, nut and allergen-free granola butter that tastes like a creamy version of cinnamon Teddy Grahams, but is actually good for you. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Ali talk about the challenges and opportunities, both from a production and a marketing perspective, of bringing something entirely new to the market.
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Emmett Shine is Co-founder at Pattern Brands, a family of brands with the mission of finding more enjoyment in daily life. In 2019, Emmett and his team closed their iconic branding agency, Gin Lane (think Sweetgreen, Quip, Harry’s, and Care/Of) and created Pattern, where they set out to build their own brands. On today's episode of ITS, Emmett talks about that transition, what he's learned while building Equal Parts and Open Spaces, and what he means by intimacy at scale.
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Marisa Zupan is founder & CEO of United Sodas of America, the gorgeous, naturally sweetened sodas that look like an art installation. On today's episode of ITS, Marisa and Ali talk about brands as conceptual spaces, the connections between strategy and creativity, and how clarity and vision are at the foundation of all great brands.
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Natalie Smid is Growth Manager at Lunar Solar Group, an e-commerce and digital growth consultancy that works with brands on their digital strategy. On today's episode of ITS, Natalie and Ali trace back their working relationship to the day after Expo West was cancelled and the Haven's team realized the only way they'd build awareness in 2020 was digitally. With no demos or events, a lot was riding on digital, and wholesale brands need to hop on the digital train, pandemic or not.
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Corey Rateau is Senior Category Manager at Good Eggs, the e-commerce grocery business beloved by the Bay Area. On today's episode of ITS, Corey walks Ali through what buyers are looking for from brands. They discuss how choosing new brands is a fraction of a buyer's job, and how brands need to identify the role our product will play in a store's assortment.
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Ben Goodwin and Eli Weiss are the Founder/CEO and the Customer Service Director of Olipop, the low sugar, prebiotic, fiber-rich healthy soda alternative that is, as they say “Killing it!” On this episode of ITS, they talk with Ali about the difference between customer service and customer experience, how expanding your team requires "depth charges," and why self awareness is critical for a founder, but also a company.
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Chuck Cotter leads the Food, Beverage, and Consumer Products industry group at the Law Firm Holland and Hart, advising companies of all sizes and stages. On this episode of ITS, Chuck breaks down the differences between LLCs and C-Corps, how to talk to your team about equity, what to think about as you raise capital, and the general state of CPG today.
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Kerrigan Behrens is the Co-CEO and Co-founder of Sagely Naturals, a CBD wellness company that sells in 10 thousand stores, including Ulta, CVS and Sprouts. On this episode of ITS, Kerrigan and Ali talk about the foundation that Sagely has been built on: A clear reason to exist, an underserved (unexpected) market, and a brand identity that has never wavered.
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Sandro Roco is the founder of Sanzo, the 1st Asian-inspired sparkling water. On today's episode of ITS, Sandro explains why CPG businesses should be built on empathy and curiosity. They also talk about launching in a way that makes sense for your product, how you can save money by digging deep before you work with creatives, and why early feedback is so critical.
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Jen Ross and Cristina Ros Blankfein, are co-founders of Swoon, zero sugar cocktail mixers and syrups, and now!, ready-to-drink sugar free lemonades. On this episode of ITS, Jen and Cristina talk Ali through rebranding to expand into the ready-to-drink set, how it all comes down to relationships, and why listening to your super fans can be your super power.
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Coulter Lewis is the Founder and CEO of Sunday, a sustainable lawn care company that is uprooting a massive industry. On this episode of ITS, Coulter and Ali talk about what it means to fully reinvent a category, how new e-commerce brands aren't just about convenience and cost anymore, and why above all, our job is to Interpret what our customers need and then go beyond what they would ask for.
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Ayeshah Abuelhiga is the Founder & CEO of Mason Dixie Foods, the company taking on the Pillsbury dough boy one better-for-you biscuit at a time. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Ayeshah discuss how her Minority and LGBTQ-owned company is redefining Southern food, why the most important key to hiring is your authenticity and how consumer research can truly save the day.
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Sandra Velasquez is the Founder of Distro 101, a class focused on the nitty, gritty skills of grocery sales, distribution and merchandising. She is also the NYC Area Sales Manager for Van Leeuwen Ice Cream and National Sales rep for HiBAR, the plastic-free hair care brand. On this episode of ITS, Sandra walks Ali through the ideal cold-email to a grocery buyer, why it's not about you or your product, and above all, how sales is about service and support.
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Thecla Schaeffer is the Marketing Magic Maker (Head of Marketing) at Tony’s Chocolonely, the big, bold, bright Dutch chocolate bars on a mission to make the chocolate industry more equitable and entirely free of child labor. On this episode of ITS, Thecla and Ali talk about how Tony’s became the market leader in the Netherlands, as well as the most sustainable brand in the country, by being distinctly untraditional at every turn. They talk about growing a purpose-driven brand in the US, and what all brands need to do well in the age of too much distraction.
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Trevor Smith is the founder and CEO of Snack Jones, a next-generation snack box offering a curated box of better-for-you snacks delivered to your doorstep.On this episode of ITS, Trevor shares why it's important for founders to celebrate the tiny wins, what he means by "hear everyone and listen to no one," and why there really is no top of the mountain.
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Starr Edwards is the Founder of Bitchin Sauce – the vegan dips and sauces that sell like hot cakes and get more popular every day. On this episode of ITS, Starr tells Ali the story of Bitchin', what makes the brand resonate so deeply with consumers, and how they've kept true to the core business and their identity while growing exponentially.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In the Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Essie Bartels is the Founder of Essie Spice, spice blends that combine the seasonings of her native Ghana with the flavors from her travels around the world. On this episode of ITS, ali and Essie talk about representation — how Essie's business is about more than spices — and why research and gut instincts need to work together as you build your business.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In the Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Amrit Richmond and Steven Vigilante are friends and CPG gurus who created Indie CPG - a global community of over 250 brand founders. On this episode of ITS, Amrit and Steven talk Ali through some of most common mistakes founders make, as well as some of the common strategies that work, and trends they're seeing across CPG products, categories, fundraising and more.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In The Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Vanessa and Kim Pham are the founders of Omsom, the DTC ready-to-use meal starters packed with the aromatics, seasonings, and oils at the foundation of many Asian dishes. On this episode of ITS, Kim and Vanessa share their story, their views on food appropriation, and how Omsom is helping make Asian condiments feel representative of the changing DNA of the US.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In The Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Ibraheem Basir is the Founder of A Dozen Cousins, a line of ready-to-eat beans using delicious recipes from Black and Latino cultures. On this episode of ITS, Ibraheem and Ali discuss the gap between food culture and the (very crowded) world of "natural products," and how A Dozen Cousins is built to bridge that gap. Ibraheem also shares how his experience working for Annie's and General Mills has shaped the way he's building his business.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In The Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Allison DeVane is founder of Teaspressa, the company that created coffee-inspired tea blends, designed to make tea drinks like lattes just like their espresso counterparts. On this episode of ITS, Allison and Ali discuss the assets and liabilities of building brick and mortar businesses alongside CPG products, especially as COVID-19 continues to threaten retail.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In The Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Alli Ball is a grocery buyer turned consultant, and the creator of Retail Ready, an online course food CPG founders. Alli is also host of Food Biz Wiz, a podcast about wholesale strategy.On this episode of ITS, Alli and Ali talk about what it takes to get products on the shelf, and keep them there. Step by step.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In the Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Chris Moe is the Co-founder and COO of Cartograph, an agency that creates custom solutions for 30 different brands to sell successfully on Amazon, including Lily’s chocolates, Justin’s nut butters and Fourth and Heart. On this episode of ITS, Chris breaks all things Amazon down for Ali, explaining the different ways to sell on the platform and the keys to success selling there.
In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.
Keep In The Sauce on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate.
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Sana Javeri Kadri is the Founder of Diaspora Co., the spice company on a mission to decolonize the spice trade. Sana started Diaspora in 2017 to create a radically new vision of how American consumers buy Indian spices. On this episode of ITS, Sana and Ali discuss appropriation versus appreciation and the power of ethical sourcing.
HRN will be donating 10% of our membership drive proceeds from now until June 15 to the Philando Castile Relief Foundation. Visit heritageradionetwork.org/donate to make your gift.
Image courtesy of Aubrie Pick.
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Nicole Centeno is Founder and CEO of Splendid Spoon, the online meal delivery company that offers ready-to-eat, nourishing, plant-based smoothies, soups and grain bowls. On this episode of ITS, Nicole and Ali talk about how Splendid Spoon leaned into direct to consumer early on, the complexities of supply chain and how the lessons we learn from parenting apply to our businesses in ways we could never imagine.
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Daniel Sklaar is Founder of FINE & RAW chocolate, the Brooklyn- based raw chocolate company focused on sustainable ingredient sourcing and minimal processing. Daniel started Fine and Raw in a Williamsburg loft in 2007 and opened a factory in Bushwick 5 years later. Today, FINE & RAW is still going strong and 100% owned by Daniel. On this episode of ITS, Daniel and Ali talk about building organically, leaving room for creativity, and how too many people making decisions is usually a bad idea.
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John Sherwin and Jai Jung Kim, co-founders of HYDRANT, were each on their own path building hydration powders to take on Gatorade and the sports/energy drink categories. Then they met and decided to build Hydrant together and start selling their bright little packets of electrolytes online. On this episode of ITS, Jai, John and Ali talk about that partnership, how DTC companies expand into stores, strategy in the age of COVID and what's next for the company.
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Ariel Pasternak and Atara Bernstein are the co-founders of Pineapple Collaborative, a company on a mission to connect and celebrate women who love food. What started as community builder, is now a full-fledged "lifestyle brand" as the duo launched their first pantry products DTC last year. On this episode of ITS, Ali, Atara and Ariel talk true community, shifting from a service business to a product business, and why "selling something" doesn't mean you're not building a true community.
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In this special live episode of In The Sauce - Ali joins Whole Foods Market Tribeca to celebrate women makers across the country who raise the bar! Recorded on February 27th, 2020: We hear from a diverse group of women how they have overcome adversity to create products we love. Our panelists include: Maria Loi of Loi, Pooja Bavishi of Malai, Homa Dashtaki of White Moustache, Essie Bartels of Essiespice, and Janie Deegan of Janie’s Life-Changing Baked Goods.
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Sylvie Charles is Founder and CEO of Just Date Syrup, the squeeze bottles of the pure, delicious sugar substitute made with Organic, California dates. On this episode of ITS, Sylvie shares the path that took her from medical school, through a major back injury, to building a chutney company and finally landing on Just Date. Life rarely goes the way we plan, Sylvie and Ali's conversation is focused on how to adjust to new realities, make thoughtful plans and ultimately build something sweet.
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Phillip Rivers is founder and CEO of Go Tetra, a messaging agency that specializes in email marketing. On today's episode of ITS, Phil and Ali talk about email marketing, why it's re-emerging as an important communications channel, why it often remains underused, and how businesses can hit the sweet spot of consistent communication without annoying their consumers.
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Chris Kirby is the Founder and CEO of Ithaca Hummus. On this episode of ITS, Chris tells Ali the story of Ithaca, how he's grown into 5000 stores without venture funding, and how he's managing the company during the current pandemic.
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Chris Fenster is the Founder and CEO of Propeller Industries, an "outsourced" CFO and accounting partner that helps close to 300 early-stage entrepreneurs build CPG companies. On this episode of ITS, Ali and her Director of Operations, Marissa, ask Chris what early stage companies need to be doing right now: From forecasting and cash management to protecting relationships with investors, buyers, and co-packers. Chris breaks down the best practices he's seeing founders employ and his predictions regarding the coronavirus and it's implications on the future.
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Gabi Lewis and Greg Sewitz are the founders of Magic Spoon,the high protein, low carb cereal that has pretty much changed cereal forever. They've also been friends and business partners since college and Magic Spoon is their second company together. On this episode of ITS, Ali talks with Gabi and Greg about how founders can prepare themselves for the new reality of the Coronavirus.
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Miyoko Schinner is founder and CEO of Miyoko’s Kitchen, the plant-based cheese and butter company that is changing dairy aisles in grocery stores across the country. A long time vegetarian, Miyoko has led her company to 15,000 retail stores, making it one of the fastest growing alternative dairy companies in the country. On this episode of ITS, Miyoko tells Ali her story, with all the bumps and bruises along the way, and shares the wisdom she's accumulated over years of being in the sauce.
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Zachary DeAngelo is founder and CEO of RodeoCPG. He is a career entrepreneur who has worked in every area of CPG. RODEO is a consultancy that provides operations and sales teams to emerging brands that want to stay lean. On this episode of ITS, Zach and Ali talk about it all: from production and distribution to the changing landscape of sales and marketing.
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Mac and Drew Anderson are co-founders of Cleveland Kraut – those big, beautiful bags of raw, fermented, crunchy sauerkraut taking over store shelves everywhere. On this episode of ITS, the brothers tell Ali the story of Cleveland Kraut, how siblings (and a brother in law) may actually be perfect cofounders, and how they learned early what it takes to grow successfully.
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TerraCycle is an innovative recycling company that has become a global leader in sustainability and recycling. On this episode of ITS, Ali interviews Wendy Sherman and Stephanie Moses. They discuss the origins of Terracycle and LOOP, true sustainability, and how brands can reduce the impact of their products on the environment.
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Maya Kaimal is the creator of the original refrigerated sauce. Maya launched her line of fresh, Indian simmer sauces in 2003 and since then has built a brand synonymous with quality, nutritious, accessible Indian food. On this episode of ITS, Maya tells Ali the story of Maya Kaimal — how they've thrived over the years through changes in the market, the way people buy food, team shifts and a lot more.
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Bill Creelman is Founder of Spindrift – America's first sparkling water made with real squeezed fruit. Spindrift is available in 10k stores across the US and it's sales have grown 1,000 percent over the past 36 months, making it one of Inc. magazine’s fastest-growing companies. On this episode of ITS, Bill explains his governing principle, "simplify to amplify" to Ali. The decisions Bill has made, the team he's built and the product itself all reflect Bill's discipline and belief that simple is is not only beautiful but profitable too.
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Lindsey Boyd is co-founder of the Laundress, the company that’s been elevating laundry with nontoxic cleaning products since 2004, and was acquired by Unilever in 2019. On this episode of ITS, Ali asks Lindsey all about how she and her co-founder Gwen held on to their commitment to core customers and higher-quality ingredients as they expanded across the globe, and how the Laundress was an early example of content commerce, powerful brand partnerships and experiential retail.
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Amanda Hesser is Founder and CEO of Food52. Kristina Wasserman is Director of Five Two, the line of crowd-sourced home products Food52 launched in 2018. On this episode of ITS, Ali talks with Amanda and Kristina about growing and staying connected with its community of 16 million people since 2009, and how Food52 leveraged its relationships to develop the highly successful and super-innovative product line.
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Melissa Duren Conner is a publicist and strategic thinker with 12 years of industry experience. As a partner at Jennifer Bett Communications, Melissa oversees overall brand strategy, positioning and execution for emerging, fast-growing companies including Andie, Magic Spoon, Recess, and Parachute. On this episode of ITS, Melissa and Ali talk about multi-channel brands needing multi-channel marketing strategies, why media trumps digital ads any day, and how to dig deep to understand your core consumer.
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Loren Brill is founder and CEO of Sweet Loren’s, known for its delicious clean-label cookie dough. On this eposode of ITS, Ali and Loren talk about the slow and steady ramp to Sweet Loren’s best year yet, as the company just ranked #114 in Inc. 500 and Loren was chosen as one of Inc.’s 2019 Female Founders. Overnight success often takes years, and Loren's story is not to be missed.
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Ellen Bennett is founder and CEO of Hedley & Bennett, the culinary lifestyle brand that redefined the word APRON. In the past 5 years, H&B has grown into a kitchen essentials empire, creating chef's wear for over 6,000 restaurants, and outfitting home cooks from coast to coast through their website and retailers. On this episode of ITS, Ellen and Ali talk about building structure around creativity, community, and how good partnerships depend on each brand knowing who they are, who they're for, and what makes them magical.
Photo Courtesy of Jim Sullivan
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Marco Canora and Andrew Garner are the force behind Brodo – the fresh bone broth that jumpstarted the broth trend in 2014. That winter, Marco opened a little window next to his award-winning restaurant Hearth, in the East Village. Soon after, Andrew came to Brodo as its CEO. On this episode of ITS, Ali speaks with Marco and Andrew about how the relationship came to be, how it works now, and what Brodo is up to in 2020.
The holiday season is all about food and community. There’s no better time to show your support for food radio by becoming a member! Lend your voice and help HRN continue to spreading the message of equitable, sustainable, and delicious food – together, we can change minds and build a better food system. Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate today to become a crucial part of the HRN community.
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James Richardson is the founder of Premium Growth Solutions, a strategic planning consultancy for early stage CPG brands. On this episode of ITS, Ali and Dr. Richardson talk strategy: why it's critical, how it protects founders (sometimes from themselves), what the critical elements of a good strategy are, and how a one-line competitive strategic statement can literally make the difference between a good company and a great one.
The holiday season is all about food and community. There’s no better time to show your support for food radio by becoming a member! Lend your voice and help HRN continue to spreading the message of equitable, sustainable, and delicious food – together, we can change minds and build a better food system. Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate today to become a crucial part of the HRN community.
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Amy and Peter Rothstein are the sibling Co-founders of Dona, the spice-based beverage company that began by selling its award-winning chai concentrate to coffee shops in 2014. On this episode of ITS, Peter and Amy tell Ali all about their journey, how they manage building Dona together, what they've learned along the way as well as what's in store for Dona.
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Federico Muyshondt is Chief Customer Officer at Chobani and master of all things marketing and sales. On this episode of ITS, Fed breaks down the basics of selling a product to the customer (not to be confused with the consumer!) There are so many brands out there, and while many are leaning into direct to consumer and selling on Amazon, most brands are coming to realize that good old fashioned stores are a critical key to growth.
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Rodney Manzo is the founder and CEO of Anvyl, a technology platform focused on supply chain, that has helped brands like Hims, Native and S’well create more simplified, more transparent production, warehousing and distribution systems. Often, the difference between a good brand and a great business are its relationships with suppliers. On this episode of ITS, Rodney shares his expertise and some helpful "back end" tips, that will in turn produce higher-quality products more efficiently.
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Kheedim Oh is the founder of Mama O's Kimchi, the brand that took the staple Korean fermented condiment and made it mainstream. On this episode of ITS, Kheedim tells Ali how he's built Mama O's from the ground up — starting with $50 and a skateboard to sellingo n Whole Foods shelves across the U.S. They discuss educating retail buyers and consumers about kimchi, and everything he's learned along the way. And yes, Mama O's is named after Kheedim's mama.
Join Heritage Radio Network on Monday, November 11th, for a raucous feast to toast a decade of food radio. Our tenth anniversary bacchanal is a rare gathering of your favorite chefs, mixologists, storytellers, thought leaders, and culinary masterminds. We’ll salute the inductees of the newly minted HRN Hall of Fame, who embody our mission to further equity, sustainability, and deliciousness. Explore the beautiful Palm House and Yellow Magnolia Café, taste and imbibe to your heart’s content, and bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and tasty gifts for any budget at our silent auction. Tickets available now at heritageradionetwork.org/gala.
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Laura Davis Gross is the co -founder and CEO of Family Meal, a creative and marketing cooperative that helps emerging brands craft their stories, find their audiences and build their businesses.On this episode of ITS, Laura breaks down brand, marketing, messaging and listening. She and Ali discuss how to use consumer feedback to build trust with consumers and create an organic consumer base that holds fast and returns again and again.
Join Heritage Radio Network on Monday, November 11th, for a raucous feast to toast a decade of food radio. Our tenth anniversary bacchanal is a rare gathering of your favorite chefs, mixologists, storytellers, thought leaders, and culinary masterminds. We’ll salute the inductees of the newly minted HRN Hall of Fame, who embody our mission to further equity, sustainability, and deliciousness. Explore the beautiful Palm House and Yellow Magnolia Café, taste and imbibe to your heart’s content, and bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and tasty gifts for any budget at our silent auction. Tickets available now at heritageradionetwork.org/gala.
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Pooja Bavishi is the founder of Malai, the crazy-delicious, Indian-influenced ice cream. On this episode of ITS, Pooja and Ali discuss building a CPG brand at the same time as brick and mortar and catering businesses. They discuss the different types of entrepreneurs, what steps Pooja first took after she decided to bite the ice cream bullet, and why proving your concept is perhaps the most valuable time and money you can spend.
Join Heritage Radio Network on Monday, November 11th, for a raucous feast to toast a decade of food radio. Our tenth anniversary bacchanal is a rare gathering of your favorite chefs, mixologists, storytellers, thought leaders, and culinary masterminds. We’ll salute the inductees of the newly minted HRN Hall of Fame, who embody our mission to further equity, sustainability, and deliciousness. Explore the beautiful Palm House and Yellow Magnolia Café, taste and imbibe to your heart’s content, and bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and tasty gifts for any budget at our silent auction. Tickets available now at heritageradionetwork.org/gala.
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Jordana Kier is the co-founder of LOLA, the first lifelong brand for a woman’s body. On this episode of ITS, Jody and Ali talk about the MUSTS of building an online-only, subscription-based brand. They discuss research, focus groups. and why Lola communicates with its consumers way differently than the X feminine care brands (Tampax, Playtex, Kotex)
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Kara Rubin is VP of Brand and Product Strategy at JUST Water. Prior to joining JUST in 2017, Kara spent over a decade in leadership at Whole Foods Market and consulting brands as well as retailers. On this episode of ITS, Kara shares her experience from all sides of the CPG world. She passes along some gems of advice about product development, channel strategy and how good prodcuts remain the most powerful way for people to vote with their dollars.
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Hugh Thomas is Co-founder and CEO of Ugly Drinks, the bright, groovy, retro looking cans of delicious, sugar-free, flavored sparkling water that just arrived from the UK after a few years of super successful sales across the pond. On this episode of ITS, Hugh and Ali break down Channel Strategy and how Ugly is growing from a UK direct to consumer brand into the US and our stores. They talk innovation and brand, and all sorts of ITS topics.
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Mike Messersmith is the US General Manager at Oatly - the oatmilk company that soared to popularity so quickly it literally created a black market. On this episode of ITS, Mike shares his wisdom on all things operations, innovation, business strategy, sales and hiring. And also how he handled the great oat milk drought of 2018.
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Erin Patinkin is co-founder and CEO of Ovenly, one of NY’s top-rated bakeries. Ovenly is on everyone's list best bakeries in New York City and Erin has been recognized as one of New York’s most “badass women” in food as well as “one to watch.” On this episode of In the Sauce, Erin and Ali break down the capital needs of a good, old fashioned start up. They also discuss Ovenly’s “open” hiring practices, and how businesses at their best should influence positive social change.
Photo by Erica Schroeder
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Emily Schildt is the Founder of Pop Up Grocer, a traveling pop-up grocery store, showcasing hundreds of products from the most innovative and exciting natural food brands today. With over 10 years of experience in marketing, Emily helps companies with messaging and architecture, content strategy, production, influencer programs and ad campaigns. On this episode of In the Sauce, Emily and Ali talk about what it takes for a brand to truly distinguish itself, how Emily imagined Pop Up Grocer, and why whatever she touches feels a little like magic.
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Matt Bachmann is the Co-Founder of Wandering Bear Cold Brew, a business he started with his friend Ben Gordon while the two were at Columbia business school in 2014. Now available online and in stores in all 50 states, Wandering Bear started with direct to office sales, heading into retail stores only after Matt and Ben knew they were onto something. On this episode of In the Sauce, Matt and Ali talk about building the business strategically, the importance of omnichannel distribution in a crowded category, and the entrepreneurial addiction to adrenaline.Wandering bears never sleep. And neither do founders.
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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Lauren Nedelman is Founder of Super Marketers, a marketing company based in the Northeast focused on demos, events and pop ups. On this episode of In the Sauce, Courtnie (Haven's Field Marketing Manager) and Lauren take a deep dive into demos: Why they're more important than ever for emerging brands, how to do them successfully, how to make a solid demo plan, and how to evaluate their impact.
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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David Karr is Co-Founder and Chief Brand Cebador of Guayaki Yerba Mate, an organic, fair trade beverage company that has been thriving since 1996. On this episode of In the Sauce, David and Ali sip mate from a gourd and talk about the power that businesses have to make the world a better place.
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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Tessa Price leads programming for WeWork Food Labs, which is both a workspace and an accelerator for early stage food entrepreneurs. Previously, she was the Director of Operations and Community for the failed shared kitchen startup, Pilotworks. Tessa and Ali discuss what founders can learn from the breakdown of Pilot Works, and how to build thoughtfully in an era of "entrepreneurship worship."
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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Jean Brownhill is the Founder and CEO of Sweeten, a free, award-winning service that pairs homeowners to contractors for major renovation projects. In 2015 Jean was one of only 11 African American female entrepreneurs to raise more than $1M in venture capital and to date, Sweeten has a more than $1 billion of construction projects. On this episode of In the Sauce, Jean tells Ali her story and shares wisdom on everything from leadership to fundraising to building in a heavily male-dominated industry.
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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Hawa Hassan is the Founder and CEO of Basbaas Sauce, a line of condiments inspired by her country of origin, Somalia. Born in the capital city of Mogadishu, Hawa came to the U.S. as a refugee at the age of 7. After a successful career as a model, Hawa started Basbaas. On this episode of In the Sauce, Hawa tells Alison her incredible story and they discuss the ups and downs of, you guessed it, being in the sauce.
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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Allison Marchesani Ackerman is a brand strategy and digital marketing consultant based in New York. After 4 years at Sir Kensington's, she decided to set out on her own to work with small, growing brands in the natural foods industry. On this episode of In the Sauce, Allison and Ali talk about how an emerging brand can build a communications strategy that guides them, speaks to consumers, and doesn't cost 6 months of sales.
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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Jordan Salcito is the Founder and CEO of DRINK RAMONA, an organic canned wine spritz with a cult-like following. On this episode of In the Sauce, Jordan and Ali talk about recreating a category, making a product that is both quality and accessible and creating a brand that people love.
It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate
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Sarah Foley is Managing Director at SWAT Equity Partners, an early-stage venture capital firm focused on investing in emerging consumer brands. She sources deals, does diligence, structures investments, and monitors them along the way. On this episode of In the Sauce, Sarah and Ali talk about venture capital: the difference between "rounds," what valuation is all about, and how the landscape of venture may be shifting as we speak.
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Agatha Kluk is the co-Founder of Kluk Farber, a boutique law firm that represents entrepreneurs, companies, investors and creatives across a variety of industries including consumer products, tech, and hospitality. On this episode of In the Sauce, Agatha talks Ali through the legal stuff: contracts, fundraising, compliance, trademarks and more.
Don't miss a live podcast taping featuring Ali (and her special guest Jeni Britton Bauer of Jeni's Ice Cream) and other HRN hosts at Haven's Kitchen on Monday, June 3rd. Get your tickets here.
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Anita Sheperd is the Founder & CEO of Anita’s Coconut Yogurt. Known for a clean label and proprietary probiotic blend with over 300 billion live cultures per serving, Anita’s is the OG coconut yogurt and has faced its share of challenges as it's scaled to meet growing demand. On this episode of In the Sauce, Anita and Ali talk candidly about the challenges of growing BIG, trying not to compromise and staying real with consumers.
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Jess Conroy is the Founder and CEO of Carats and Cake, a wedding planning platform that delivers personal wedding advice to couples. On this episode of In the Sauce, Jess talks Ali through the leadership lessons she's learned since founding C&C in 2013. They discuss Jess' monthly leadership emails which cover everything from the Tyranny of the Urgent to the Casualty of Being too Casual. Leadership isn't quite as intuitive as it may seem. It's a muscle and needs the right exercise.
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Rachel Simons is the Co-Founder and CEO of Seed + Mill, America’s first sesame concept store and producer of a range of products made from sesame seeds, including halva, tahini soft-serve, a range of spices and everyone's favorite tahini. On this episode of In the Sauce, Rachel and Ali flip things around, and Rachel interviews Ali on all things sauce: what's been happening with the team, what some of the challenges have been a long the way, and what's next.
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Becca Parrish is the founder of Becca, the creative marketing agency behind mega brands like Health-ade, Casa Dragones, Le Bernadin, the Polo Bar and many, many more. On this episode of In the Sauce, Becca and Ali explore how a brand makes itself known and stays relevant in a sea of choices. They talk brand DNA, the rules around an elevator pitch, and Becca's biggest pet peeve.
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Trinity Mouzon Wofford is the Co-Founder and CEO of Golde, a wellness brand that got its start with beautiful pouches of tonic powders and is launching a line of face masks this week. On this episode of In the Sauce, Trinity and Ali discuss sales channels, the power of independent stores, Golde's move into Sephora and why Trinity believes in building with wholesale partners instead of focusing on direct to consumer.
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Cathryn Woodruff is the Director of Communications at Banza, the chickpea pasta company currently flying off the shelves. On this episode of In the Sauce, Cathryn and Ali break down the elements of communications, PR and marketing. They discuss brand voice, authenticity, storytelling and why, as Cathryn put it, it's critical to "act like a human. Not a brand."
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John Lawson is the Northeast regional grocery buyer at Whole Foods Market. On this episode of In the Sauce, John tells Ali what he's looking for in emerging brands, what mistakes we can avoid, how to work with buyers to maximize sales and why we should see shelf space as a vote of confidence and an investment, but not the end-goal.
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Raquel Tavares is the Founder and CEO of Fourth and Heart, the ghee company that has become a household name since they launched in 2015. On this episode of In the Sauce, Raquel and Ali discuss consumer education, product innovation, selling on Amazon and how Raquel built a killer brand.
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Grace Lachona is a Supplier Development Manager for UNFI NEXT, the program that mega distributor, UNFI, created to curate and incubate emerging brands. On this episode of In the Sauce, Grace and Ali talk about distribution, the numbers, how and when to open new distribution centers in new regions and how to avoid potential mistakes.
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Michael Kirban is the Founder and CEO of VitaCoco, the brand that brought coconut water to the US in 2004, and is now the global market leader, selling in hundreds of thousands of store here and abroad. On this episode of In the Sauce, Mike and Ali talk about the journey and lessons learned along the way: From selling cases bodega to bodega on his rollerblades, through Coke's acquisition of his biggest competitor, to now, as Vita continues to innovate and grow through acquisitions of other beverage brands.
Photo Courtesy of Chris Gregory
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Homa Dashtaki is the Founder of White Moustache, a yogurt company with a cult-like following and a waitlist of over thirty retailers. On this episode of In the Sauce, Homa and Ali talk about authenticity and scale: Can they coexist? What gets sacrificed when you grow? What about when you don't grow? And again...how it always comes back to an amazing product.
Photo Courtesy of Nicole Franzen
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Dawn Techow is Cofounder of Relish Food Project, an outsourced CFO for emerging CPG food companies. On this episode of In the Sauce, Dawn and Ali talk about MONEY: Everything from accounting and bookkeeping, to what you need to know and clean up before you go out and try to raise capital.
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Carmel Hagan and Denise Woodard are the Founders of Supernatural, a clean baking pantry staple company (think natural sprinkles and coconut sugar) and Partake Foods, delicious cookies that also happen to be free from the top 8 allergens. On this episode of In the Sauce, Ali asks Carmel and Denise about their entrepreneurship journeys: Why and How they each founded their own company, lessons they've learned, and how #femalefounders tend to think a bit differently from our male counterparts.
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David Mawhinney is the Founder of Franklin+Emily, a design forward children's furniture brand. He's also the former chef at Haven's Kitchen and before that, an accountant. On this episode of In the Sauce, David and Ali talk about taking the leap, following your gut and the things that need to be in place before you go out on your own.
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Gracie Dulik is the Director of Sales at MatchaBar, a Brooklyn-based matcha tea company. On this episode of In the Sauce, Gracie and Ali talk about sales strategy, the process and challenges of opening distribution centers, building the right sales team and more.
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Pat Jammet is a bit of a legend in the world of product marketing. After starting his career at Honest Tea, Pat took on Field Marketing at Sir Kensington's, eventually becoming VP of Marketing there. On this episode of In the Sauce, Pat and Ali talk about what founders should be thinking after the push onto the shelves: There's gotta be a team dedicated to the PULL off the shelves by happy consumers. That means demonstrations, coupons, and sampling wherever a potential consumer can be found.
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Lauren Jupiter is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of AccelFoods, an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in consumer products. On this episode of In the Sauce, Lauren and Ali talk about how, why, and when companies should raise outside capital, what investors are looking for, and how founders can build a smart foundation so that when they go out to raise money, their financial ducks are in a row.
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Hannah Bronfman is a multi-hyphenate DJ, wellness guru, founder of HBFit, and now, author. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Hannah talk about non-traditional routes to building businesses — how to take your stengths and the things that give you joy and build on them — to create brands and experineces that people want and need.
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Sierra Tishgart and Maddy Moelis met at summer camp 20 years ago and are now the Co-Founders of Great Jones, a kitchen company that launched a line of cookware two weeks ago. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali, Maddy and Sierra talk about how to start a business with a friend: What to look for in a partner, how to organize the workload, and most importantly, how to preserve the friendship.
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Chris Psuik is Vice President at Dora's Naturals, a DSD (direct store delivery) distributor that distributes brands like GT Kombucha, Remedy Organics, Matchabar and Harmless Harvest. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Chris talk about how a brand can work more effectively with its distributor and what mistakes growing food companies should try to avoid — They're joined by Sean (also from Dora's) and Courtnie (Haven's Market Manager) to talk about grocery buyers, categories, promotional schedules and the road to success.
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Amy Stern is the Director of Operations at Chloe's Fruit, a frozen snack brand found in 10,000 grocery stores nationwide. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Amy talk about supply chain and operations — what Amy refers to as "making the pops and moving the pops" — Amy shares advice about working with suppliers, having a deep understanding of your ingredients, and how to choose a co-packer.
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Jesse Derris is the founder and CEO of Derris, a full-service brand strategy and communications agency headquartered in New York City. He is also the founder and managing member of Amity Supply, which invests in and supports early-stage consumer brands, and an advisor-in-residence at the Columbia University Entrepreneurship Program. Jesse and Ali talk about purpose: Why a company exists beyond making money and how that WHY gets translated into branding and communications.
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Scott Norton is the Co-Founder of Sir Kensington's, the condiment company that took the world by storm in 2010 and was acquired by Unilever last year. In this episode of In the Sauce, Scott and Ali talk Culture: Why it's more than a ping pong table and some bean bags; why people are at the heart of all great businesses; how to create value for your team, and how even if you haven't formally codified your company's values, be mindful, you are communicating them.
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Alex Ingalls is the Founder of Pilot Kombucha, a business she founded in 2015. Alex has leapt from a one-woman making, bottling and delivering process to a full production facility and three distributors. All to keep up with rapidly growing demnd. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Alex talk about distinguishing yourself in a growing category, responsible expansion, and the balancing act of entrepreneurship. Plus, Ali finally learns what a SCOBY is.
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Gertrude Allen is CEO of Pet-Plate, a direct to consumer pet food business, as well as an investor, brand-builder and operator. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Gertrude get down to brass tacks about all things fundraising. Gertrude breaks down when it's time to move from friends and family to angels and early stage institutional investors, the key metrics those investors will be looking for as they evaluate your business, and what founders should be looking for as they evaluate opportunities.
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Kiki Von Glinow is Founder of Toast Media Group, a consultancy that helps brands with digital growth as well as social media strategy and management. After 6 years at HuffPost, first as a journalist, then leading programming, digital analytics and email marketing, Kiki went out on her own to demystify it all for her clients. Kiki and Ali discuss everything Instagram: From the infamous algorithm to what makes good content, who's doing it right, what the future of digital looks like and, most importantly, why a brand MUST know it's audience. Intimately.
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Kara Posner is an attorney with The Giannuzzi Group, a law firm that specializes in growing, scalable consumer brands. Kara and her team are the attorneys who helped Ali and Katie set up Haven's Kitchen Sauces, creating the LLC, helping negotiate distribution contracts, writing equity agreements, and more. Kara and Ali discuss all things LEGAL: What founders should keep in mind as they build, issues about ownership, trademarking, contracts with service providers, and the importance of "papering" everything.
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Mitch Rubin is the Program Specialist for the Chobani Incubator, a four-month program that helps emerging food brands with everything from manufacturing and packaging, to marketing and brand strategy. The Incubator, which gives its participants an equity-free 25K grant, was created by Chobani's founder, Hamdi Ulukaya, as part of the company's mission to bring better food to more people. Mitch and Ali talk about the non-negotiables of being a successful, values-driven food business, why the team is critical, some red flags for challenger brands, and of course, what the Chobani Incubator is looking for in its applicants.
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Ann Yang is a co-founder of Misfit Juicery, a juice company that turns what would be wasted fruits and vegetables into delicious juice. Ann and her co-founder Phil started Misfit out of a dorm kitchen at Georgetown and now, a few years later, distribute juice up and down the East Coast. Ann and Ali talk about mission-driven CPG's: How financial and social profits can mutually coexist; how important it is to find the right funders; and how important a WHY is for any emerging brand.
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Alex Stikeleather is a freelance graphic designer and the artist behind the Haven's Kitchen Sauces pouch design. After graduating from SVA and four years at Pentagram, where she worked on branding for the Wing, Alex went out on her own to help brands tell their story through design. Alex and Ali discuss how they worked together to refresh the HK logo and make it packaged-good friendly, the importance of visual branding, and why bringing a designer in early is a good idea for emerging CPGs.
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Courtnie Beceiro and Charlotte Myer are buyers at Fresh Direct and Foodkick. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali askes them all about the future of grocery shopping, what they're looking for in emerging brands and what they do with all the dozens of samples they receive every week.
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Taryn Langer is Founder and President of Moxie Communications Group, the PR powerhouse that helped launch startups like Casper and Dollar Shave Club. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Taryn discuss the importance of a clear brand story: Why is your product better? Who or what are you challenging and how? Taryn shares some failure stories, some incredible advice, and even gives Ali a bit of therapy.
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Derrick Quandt is Director of Operations at Banza, the best selling, gluten-free pasta company. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali and Katie discuss supply chain and logistics with Derrick and get his advice about hiring their third employee. They discuss the importance of building systems and tracking everything as the business grows, along with the Banza philosophy: Set a long term goal, be flexible in the short term, and never, ever give up.
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Camilla Marcus has been a lawyer, chef, consultant, investor, one-time college admissions officer and founder. In this episode of In the Sauce, Ali asks her all about how her experiences have culminated with the founding of Westbourne, a social enterprise, all day cafe in Soho. They discuss the four golden pillars of entrepreneurship: Product, Market, Founder, Fit, and the difference between having a plan and having a strategy. Camilla's number one thought when it comes to building a team? Be a #talentmagnet.
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