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The Startup CPG Podcast
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Inhalt bereitgestellt von Startup CPG. Alle Podcast-Inhalte, einschließlich Episoden, Grafiken und Podcast-Beschreibungen, werden direkt von Startup CPG oder seinem Podcast-Plattformpartner hochgeladen und bereitgestellt. Wenn Sie glauben, dass jemand Ihr urheberrechtlich geschütztes Werk ohne Ihre Erlaubnis nutzt, können Sie dem hier beschriebenen Verfahren folgen https://de.player.fm/legal.
The top CPG podcast in the world, highlighting stories from founders, buyer spotlights, highly practical industry insights - all to give you a better chance at success.
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297 Episoden
Alle als (un)gespielt markieren ...
Manage series 3351906
Inhalt bereitgestellt von Startup CPG. Alle Podcast-Inhalte, einschließlich Episoden, Grafiken und Podcast-Beschreibungen, werden direkt von Startup CPG oder seinem Podcast-Plattformpartner hochgeladen und bereitgestellt. Wenn Sie glauben, dass jemand Ihr urheberrechtlich geschütztes Werk ohne Ihre Erlaubnis nutzt, können Sie dem hier beschriebenen Verfahren folgen https://de.player.fm/legal.
The top CPG podcast in the world, highlighting stories from founders, buyer spotlights, highly practical industry insights - all to give you a better chance at success.
…
continue reading
297 Episoden
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×In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Daniel Faierman, Partner at Habitat Partners, an early-stage venture firm spun out of the renowned creative agency Red Antler. With experience at major CPG companies such as PepsiCo, Danone, and AB InBev, Daniel brings a well-rounded perspective on brand building, strategic investment, and evaluating emerging consumer brands. They explore what Habitat Partners looks for in early-stage investments, with a focus on strong gross margins, capital efficiency, and early signs of product-market fit. Daniel shares how brands can succeed in pre-launch or seed rounds, the metrics that matter most — including velocities and marketing efficiency — and the importance of building a credible online presence even for retail-focused companies. He also offers candid advice on what not to do when pitching investors, outlines common valuation benchmarks, and highlights specific whitespace opportunities he’s actively looking to fund. If you’re a founder preparing to raise capital or simply seeking to better understand the CPG investment landscape, this episode delivers strategic insights and actionable guidance from a seasoned investor. Listen now! Listen in as they share about: Who Is Daniel Faierman and What Is Habitat Partners? Key KPIs They Evaluate DTC vs Retail Channel Strategy Fundraising Mistakes to Avoid Valuation Guidance White Space Opportunity They’re Seeking What Founders Should Ask Habitat Other Early-Stage CPG Funds Mentioned Episode Links: Website: https://www.habitatpartners.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-faierman/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Sue Delegan and Kim Hehir, the co-founders of Brutus Bone Broth, a leading brand in the emerging category of functional pet food toppers. As sisters and entrepreneurs, Sue and Kim share the journey of building a mission-driven company that started in their home kitchens and scaled to national distribution with major retailers like Target. They explore how Brutus Bone Broth was born out of a personal need and quickly gained traction through strategic beta testing, a strong emphasis on product quality, and persistent outreach to retailers. Sue and Kim discuss navigating regulatory hurdles, maintaining cost-efficiency while preserving ingredient integrity, and the importance of innovation in developing new product lines like powdered bone broth and functional goat milk. They also reflect on the emotional realities of entrepreneurship, the value of building collaborative relationships, and how a clear brand mission—nourishing pets while giving back to the community—has remained central to their growth. Listen in to gain valuable insights on product development, retail strategy, and scaling a consumer brand—plus learn how Brutus Bone Broth is shaping the future of pet nutrition. Listen in as they share about: Brutus Bone Broth Overview Manufacturing & Product Development Go-to-Market Strategy & Early Challenges Negotiation & Cost Management Retail Expansion DTC & Innovation Episode Links: Website: brutusbroth.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-hehir-6753391/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
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The Startup CPG Podcast

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Jamie Valenti-Jordan, CEO of Catapult Commercialization Services, and Andy Kurtts, founder of Buttermilk Creative, for a deep dive into the technical and design considerations to get your product out into the world. Jamie shares his 20+ years of commercialization expertise, covering the technical side of packaging—shelf life, structural integrity, co-manufacturing constraints, and the science behind keeping products protected from oxygen, moisture, light, and even drop-kicks during shipping. Meanwhile, Andy offers the designer’s perspective on how to stand out on-shelf, balance aesthetics with category norms, and build packaging that communicates your brand's promise clearly and effectively. Together, they break down how packaging influences everything from retail acceptance to consumer perception, and why early-stage brands should think carefully about format, manufacturing limitations, and visual hierarchy. Real-world examples like Graza, NoBull, and Leisure Hydration illustrate how form and function can come together to build lasting impressions—and brands. Whether you're in the concept phase or planning your second packaging run, this episode is your total package. Tune in now to learn how to make your product irresistible on shelf—from the inside out. Visit Catapult Commercialization Services: https://bit.ly/catapultcpg Visit Canworks digital can printing: https://www.canworksprinting.com/startupcpg Listen in as they share about: The Importance of Packaging in Product Success Technical Considerations of Packaging (Jamie’s Perspective) Design and Branding Strategy (Andy’s Perspective) Working with Designers and Agencies Testing, Feedback, and Iteration Cost, Margin, and Strategic Trade-offs Marketing, Community, and Brand Execution Real Brand Examples Episode Links: Website: https://www.catapultserv.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fvmh97c/ Website: https://buttermilkcreative.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andykurtts/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Francesca Pittaluga, founder of Ciao Pappy, a premium Italifornia pasta sauce brand that blends the culinary traditions of Italy with the fresh, vibrant spirit of California. Francesca shares her entrepreneurial journey from a career in fashion to building a fast-growing CPG brand rooted in family heritage, clean ingredients, and strong storytelling. Gain insight into the early days of launching Ciao Pappy, the strategic decisions behind product development and retail placement, and the challenges of scaling production while maintaining quality. Francesca also discusses the importance of community support, finding the right partners, and staying focused on sustainable, regional growth before national expansion. This episode is a must-listen for emerging founders navigating the food and beverage space or anyone interested in building a purpose-driven brand. Listen in as they share about: The Origin of Ciao Pappy Blending Cultures through Food Early Growth and Strategy Product Development Retail and Distribution Strategy Manufacturing and Co-Packing Challenges Community and Resources Funding and Growth Challenges Episode Links: Website: https://www.ciaopappy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-pittaluga-983170261/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
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The Startup CPG Podcast

1 #202 - Buyer Spotlight: Total Wine & More 1:08:45
1:08:45
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In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Michael Lowry, Vice President of Global Spirit Sourcing, and Andrea Starr, Senior Director of Merchandising at Total Wine & More—the largest independent alcohol retailer in the U.S., with over 300 stores and $6 billion in annual sales. Michael and Andrea pull back the curtain on how Total Wine thinks about brand discovery, merchandising strategy, customer engagement, and category trends — including the rise of non-alcoholic beverages and the emerging THC space. They share what makes a product stand out and why the right design can make or break a new launch. You’ll also learn what it takes to get on their shelves, how they stay nimble like a startup, and what catches their eye at trade shows. Packed with actionable insights, category strategy tips, and behind-the-scenes examples, this episode is a must-listen for any startup founder, CPG marketer, or emerging brand looking to break into large-format retail. 🎧 Tune in now to learn how to make your brand shelf-ready for one of the most powerful retail platforms in beverage. Listen in as they share about: Total Wine & More Overview Roles and Expertise Product Discovery & Sourcing Trends & Consumer Behavior E-Commerce & Digital Strategy Retail Strategy & Brand Fit How Total Wine Discovers New Brands Episode Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andstarr/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lowry-394b177a/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Caitlin Bricker speaks with Fane He and Kyle Nguyen, co-founders of The Lucky Ox, a Vietnamese-inspired beverage company. They share the story behind their flagship salted lemonade, the cultural roots and personal meaning behind the brand, and how their backgrounds in fashion and design have shaped a product that stands out both on shelves and online. From launching with glass bottles and navigating DTC logistics, to building a wholesale business one account at a time—often hand-delivering orders across New York City—Fane and Kyle discuss the challenges and unexpected wins of growing a beverage brand with limited resources but unlimited creativity. They also explore how The Lucky Ox is resonating across diverse culinary spaces and why authenticity has been their strongest differentiator. So, what are you waiting for–listen now! Listen in as they share about: Authenticity Over Trend-Chasing Unique Brand Identity & Design Bootstrapped Hustle & Grassroots Growth Distribution & DTC Challenges Retail and Sales Strategy Mentorship and Startup CPG Support Community, Mentorship, and Startup CPG Episode Links: Website: https://luckyox.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fane-he/ LinkedIn: Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Alicia Nelson, Sales and Customer Operations Manager at So Good So You, and Emily Curran of SPS Commerce to explore the essential role of Sales Operations in driving operational efficiency and scalability for growing CPG brands. Alicia provides a detailed look into how her team manages day-to-day execution—coordinating orders, logistics, and customer communications—and how cross-functional collaboration is critical to delivering products on time and in full. She also discusses the evolution of her role as the company scaled, the systems that support their operations (including Fishbowl and EDI solutions from SPS Commerce), and the strategic importance of effective communication across teams and partners. Emily shares additional perspective from her work with brands of all sizes, highlighting best practices in implementing EDI, the value of automation, and how to build scalable processes that adapt to increasing complexity. This episode offers valuable insights for founders, operators, and sales teams looking to establish or refine their sales operations infrastructure as they grow. 🎧 Listen now to learn how to build a resilient and responsive Sales Ops function that supports sustainable growth. Listen in as they share about: Sales Operations Role & Importance Daily Responsibilities of Sales Ops Importance of EDI and Systems When to Establish Sales Ops Skills Needed in Sales Ops KPIs and Success Metrics Balancing Automation with Human Expertise Episode Links: Website: https://www.spscommerce.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-curran-05170825/ Website: https://sogoodsoyou.com/ LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-nelson-278b1ba Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Grace Mittl, co-founder of Absurd Snacks, a brand focusing on allergen-friendly snacking. Grace Mittl shares how a college entrepreneurship course sparked the creation of Absurd Snacks, originally inspired by a classmate’s dietary restrictions. What began as roasted chickpeas in a dorm kitchen has evolved into a fast-growing company offering protein-rich, allergen-free snack mixes. They explore key milestones in the company’s growth—from navigating the challenges of allergen-free manufacturing and scaling production, to launching on Amazon and building a strong retail presence with partners like Whole Foods Market, Kroger, and Publix. Grace also reflects on the importance of mentorship, community engagement, and staying transparent as a young founder in the consumer packaged goods space. Listen in for practical insights into launching a purpose-driven brand, and learn how Absurd Snacks is reshaping the future of inclusive snacking. Listen in as they share about: Product Development Manufacturing Challenges Retail & E-commerce Strategy Go-To-Market Strategy Marketing & Community Building Funding & Growth Team & Support Biggest Lessons & Advice Episode Links: Website: absurdsnacks.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracemittl/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
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In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Erik Muller and Daria Jackson of The FruitGuys, a purpose-driven company providing fresh fruit and clean-label snacks to offices, schools, and organizations across the country. Erik shares insights from FruitGuys’ 27-year journey, highlighting its mission to nourish communities, support sustainable agriculture, and create meaningful workplace experiences. Daria, the Snack Category Manager, discusses how she curates their growing CPG assortment, current trends shaping workplace snacking, and what she looks for when partnering with emerging brands. This conversation covers everything from the evolution of office snack programs to practical advice for brands looking to break into corporate wellness spaces. You will gain valuable perspective on what it takes to build a lasting, values-driven food business—and how to get products in front of the right audiences. Don't miss this episode–tune in now! Listen in as they share about: The FruitGuys Overview Company Mission and Values Business Scope and Operations Product Strategy & CPG Snack Program Customer Use Cases Trends & Buyer Insights How to Work with Fruit Guys Opportunities for Brands Episode Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fruitguys/posts/?feedView=all LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/herrmuller/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daria-jackson-44360a136/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode, Daniel Scharff shares an exciting new opportunity for emerging CPG brands: the Startup CPG Innovation Section at the upcoming UNFI Selling Shows . For the first time ever, Startup CPG is partnering with UNFI to showcase innovative brands not yet working with the distributor — offering 10 free tabletop spots at their July shows in Las Vegas (July 15–17) and Mohegan Sun (July 29–31). Daniel explains why this opportunity is a game-changer, highlighting the exclusive access to top retailers and UNFI team members, and how distributor account managers can play a critical role in brand success. He also shares personal insights from his own experience exhibiting at these shows and building vital industry connections. 🗓️ Application deadline: June 10 at 8:00 AM 👉 If you're a CPG brand not currently in UNFI’s distribution centers, don’t miss this chance to get in front of key industry decision-makers. To learn more and apply, check out details in the Startup CPG slack (sign up at startupcpg.com ) Listen in as they share about: Partnership Announcement Event Details West/Central Show (Las Vegas) East Show (Mohegan Sun) Opportunity for New Brands Free Tabletop Spaces Retailer Exposure Strategic Advantage How to Apply Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Dina DiCenso, co-founder of RIND, an innovative vegan cheese company based in Brooklyn, New York. Dina shares RIND’s journey from homemade recipes to national retail shelves and fine dining establishments—including a notable appearance at the White House. They explore the brand's proprietary fermentation techniques, the challenges and advantages of bootstrapping in a competitive category, and the strategic growth of their two lines: RIND and Veggie Underground. Dina also offers valuable insights into retail expansion, foodservice strategy, and the evolving landscape of plant-based dairy alternatives. Tune in now! Listen in as they share about: Mission and Motivation Product Development Bootstrapped vs Self-Funding Business Growth and Challenges Market Trends & Industry Insight Retail and Distribution Marketing and Consumer Education Episode Links: Website: https://www.rind.nyc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinadicenso/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
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1 #199 - How to Drive Velocity with Marketing with Janice Greenwald 1:01:09
1:01:09
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In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Janice Greenwald, a seasoned marketing leader with over two decades of experience spanning Unilever, Sabra, and numerous natural food startups. Janice shares her expert perspective on what truly drives success in CPG marketing, introducing her expanded “C’s and P’s” framework and offering actionable insights for early-stage brands. They cover key topics including defining a compelling value proposition, conducting consumer research on a budget, evaluating product-market fit, optimizing packaging for shelf impact, and selecting the right creative partners. Janice also shares best practices for executing high-ROI tactics like retail media, demos, and digital couponing to drive velocity. Whether you’re launching a new brand or scaling an existing one, this episode offers clear, strategic guidance to help your product stand out in a crowded market. Listen now! Grassroots Marketing Demos : https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call Janice's Cs and Ps: Consumer – Who is your product for, and what real problem are you solving? Customer (Retailer) – You must show how your product will grow their category Category – You’re not just selling a product; you’re helping drive category incrementality Competition – Understand the landscape and how your brand stands out Product – Is it actually delivering on a relevant insight or need? Pricing – Must reflect your value proposition, margin goals, and consumer expectations Packaging – Your single best marketing tool in-store—must break through Placement – Should be a joint effort with sales to get the best in-store visibility at the right retailers (or channels) Promotion – Covers everything you’ll do to move product off the shelf Listen in as they share about: Marketing for CPG Brands Marketing Framework: Cs & Ps Product-Market Fit & Repositioning Brand Audits and Course Correction Driving Velocity: Practical Tactics Marketing Spend and ROI-Driven Tactics Research & Validation Choosing a Design Partner Episode Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janice-greenwald-marketing-consultant/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Brenna Turner and Joey Labes, the co-founders of Sake High!, a premium sake brand brewed in Japan and designed for the modern U.S. consumer. From launching one of the first canned sakes in the U.S. to debuting innovative sake-based hard teas, Sake High! is on a mission to make sake more accessible, versatile, and relevant to a new generation of beverage drinkers. Brenna and Joey share their journey of building an alcohol brand as a couple, navigating the complexities of international sourcing and U.S. distribution, and staying true to their values by continuing to partner with traditional Japanese breweries. They also dive into their grassroots marketing strategy, how they’re challenging sake norms, and why consumer education is key to their success. Explore the future of sake — and the startup driving it forward. Listen now! Listen in as they share about: The Origin of Sake High! Branding & Packaging Process Disrupting the Sake Category Bootstrapping Growth & Product innovation Challenges of Alcohol Distribution Running a Startup as a Couple Community & Collaboration Episode Links: Website: https://www.sakehigh.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenna-turner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelabes/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg ost Visit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Patricia Menegoto and Caitlin Bricker from the Startup CPG team for a packed update on everything happening across the community. They dive deep into the Shelfies , the industry's largest free product awards program, discussing standout submissions, evolving trends in plant-based innovation, and what it’s like to be a Shelfies judge. Patricia and Caitlin share their unique judging processes and the behind-the-scenes chaos (and joy!) of receiving hundreds of packages. The team also highlights major upcoming events—from the Further initiative empowering female founders to the jam-packed Fancy Food Show schedule, featuring buyer meetings, founder dinners, and a silent disco at Discotopia during Newtopia Now. Plus, you’ll get the inside scoop on the Grocery Run event series, how the Startup CPG Newswire is amplifying brand news for free, and Caitlin’s new role as host of the Friday Founder Feature podcast episodes. Whether you're already part of the Startup CPG community or just discovering it, this episode is your roadmap to all the ways we're connecting, celebrating, and supporting emerging brands across the country. Don’t miss out—Listen now! Email and Content Manager Job Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScI2upkBZbBA6NuJ0pMQCktMPFHVM-zF22pT66UEpUAH0ZVAg/viewform CPG Operations Writer Job Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbhEnmFjJ0M2myKIpbz5FU6RX-jAyyoAZ1FkNiwe5SD6steA/viewform Listen in as they share about: Shelfies Awards Further Program for Female Founders Trade Show Events - Fancy Food Show -Newtopia Now -Expo West Grocery Run Event Series Startup CPG Newswire Team and Community Highlights Episode Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pmenegoto/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlinbricker/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy is joined by Stephanie Berwick, founder of Pastazerts—the first brand to bring chocolate ravioli to market. Stephanie shares her unique journey from a two-decade career in fintech to launching a frozen dessert product that’s carving out a completely new category in CPG. She discusses how early success in amateur cooking competitions sparked the idea, and walks through the practical steps she took to validate the concept, navigate production challenges, and transition from self-manufacturing to working with a co-manufacturer. Stephanie also opens up about the realities of bootstrapping a frozen brand, conducting a debt-based crowdfunding round, and the strategic rollout into retail and foodservice. This episode is packed with valuable insights on innovation, retail readiness, and managing operational complexity in the frozen space. Tune in now! Listen in as they share about: Overview of Pastazerts Early Steps & Product Development Product Development and Scaling Retail & Distribution Strategy Frozen Category Challenges Funding and Financial Strategy Marketing and Community Building Advice for Entrepreneurs Episode Links: Website: https://pastazerts.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-berwick/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com . Show Links: Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top) Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!) Follow @startupcpg Visit host Grace's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
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