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Founder Feature: Nikki Seaman of Freestyle Snacks

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内容由Startup CPG提供。所有播客内容(包括剧集、图形和播客描述)均由 Startup CPG 或其播客平台合作伙伴直接上传和提供。如果您认为有人在未经您许可的情况下使用您的受版权保护的作品,您可以按照此处概述的流程进行操作https://zh.player.fm/legal

In this episode of The Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy welcomes Nikki Seaman, founder and CEO of Freestyle Snacks, to discuss the journey behind reimagining olives as a premium, convenient snack. Nikki shares her inspiration for launching Freestyle Snacks during the pandemic, identifying a gap in the market for fresh, flavorful olives packaged for modern, on-the-go lifestyles.

From early product development to navigating over 200 co-packer rejections, Nikki provides a behind-the-scenes look at building a CPG brand from the ground up. Discover how her data-driven approach, innovative packaging, and strategic focus on diverse channels like grocery, hospitality, and even Delta Air Lines snack boxes have contributed to the brand’s success.

If you’re curious about the intricacies of product design, scaling into retail, and creating a snack that stands out in a crowded market, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Listen in as they share about:

  • Introduction to Freestyle Snacks
  • Challenges in Early Development
  • Product Development
  • Go-to-Market Strategy
  • Unique Brand Positioning
  • Expansion and Key Channels
  • Trends and Market Fit

Episode Links:

Website: https://www.freestylesnacking.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-seaman/

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

  continue reading

253集单集

Artwork
icon分享
 
Manage episode 460371517 series 3245357
内容由Startup CPG提供。所有播客内容(包括剧集、图形和播客描述)均由 Startup CPG 或其播客平台合作伙伴直接上传和提供。如果您认为有人在未经您许可的情况下使用您的受版权保护的作品,您可以按照此处概述的流程进行操作https://zh.player.fm/legal

In this episode of The Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy welcomes Nikki Seaman, founder and CEO of Freestyle Snacks, to discuss the journey behind reimagining olives as a premium, convenient snack. Nikki shares her inspiration for launching Freestyle Snacks during the pandemic, identifying a gap in the market for fresh, flavorful olives packaged for modern, on-the-go lifestyles.

From early product development to navigating over 200 co-packer rejections, Nikki provides a behind-the-scenes look at building a CPG brand from the ground up. Discover how her data-driven approach, innovative packaging, and strategic focus on diverse channels like grocery, hospitality, and even Delta Air Lines snack boxes have contributed to the brand’s success.

If you’re curious about the intricacies of product design, scaling into retail, and creating a snack that stands out in a crowded market, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Listen in as they share about:

  • Introduction to Freestyle Snacks
  • Challenges in Early Development
  • Product Development
  • Go-to-Market Strategy
  • Unique Brand Positioning
  • Expansion and Key Channels
  • Trends and Market Fit

Episode Links:

Website: https://www.freestylesnacking.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-seaman/

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

  continue reading

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In this episode of The Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy sits down with Breanna and Jared Golestani, the co-founders of Kokada, to discuss their journey from a kitchen experiment during the pandemic to launching a nationally distributed brand. As a husband-and-wife duo, they share how their love for food (and each other) led to the creation of their delicious coconut-based spreads and snacks. Breanna and Jared dive into the origins of Kokada, inspired by Breanna’s experiences playing volleyball for the Jamaican national team and her passion for creating a low-sugar, coconut-based treat. They recount their early days at farmers’ markets, their big break winning the NOSH Pitch Slam, and how they navigated funding, scaling, and building a supply chain—including working with international co-packers. They also highlight their new product launch, Kokada Dunks, a better-for-you twist on nostalgic snack packs. They discuss retail strategy, the importance of in-store demos, balancing growth with sustainability, and lessons learned in securing financing without compromising their long-term vision. Tune in now! Listen in as they share about: Origins & Inspiration for Kokada Scaling & Expansion Strategy Challenges in Supply Chain & Inventory Management Marketing & Driving Sales in Retail Funding & Financial Approach New Product Launch: Kokada Dunks Advice for Other Founders Episode Links: Website: https://kokada.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breanna-atkinson-golestani-588136b7/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jared-golestani/ 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 bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Patricia Menegoto and Kiki Huddleston from the Startup CPG team to dive deep into The Shelfie Awards, the biggest free awards program for emerging CPG brands. Now in its fifth year, the Shelfies offer small brands valuable visibility, credibility, and connections with retailers & media. They break down everything about the Shelfies —how they began, why they matter, and how they can help brands gain exposure. They also cover the judging process, what makes a winning product, and tips for applying. Plus, they introduce the new Sustainability Shelfies Award, sponsored by Green Spoon Sales, and share success stories of past winners who landed retailer deals and media coverage. Five years ago, Startup CPG began conducting the first and only awards program specifically for emerging CPG brands: The Shelfie Awards. The Shelfie Awards’ goal is to give exceptional small CPG brands an opportunity to be seen, and get recognition they deserve. The Shelfies eliminate typical hurdles involved in awards applications, creating opportunities for brands in their earliest stages. The Shelfies recognize + celebrate next-level product innovations, inspiring brand stories, and packaging that stops us in our tracks — we can’t wait to see what tricks you have up your CPG sleeves this year! Everything You Need to Know to Apply: Applications and product samples are accepted on a category-specific basis, based on month, starting on February 1st and ending on May 31st, 2025 (refer to shelfies guide for the full list of categories). Once you’ve noted your brand’s category month, prepare your samples accordingly for our judges. You’ll need to send in your application and product samples during your category month to be considered. Check out our official Shelfies guide Check out Shelfies Finalists & Winner of 2024 Listen in as they share about: Purpose of the Shelfie Awards The Evolution of the Shelfie Awards Judging Process The Impact of the Shelfie Awards Application Process & Timeline Community & Exposure Benefits Episode Links: Kiki on LinkedIn Patricia on 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 Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com Episode music by Super Fantastics…
 
Let’s rewind, refresh, and get you ready for this year’s Expo West! 🎉 This episode originally aired in February 2024, but trust us—the insights are still absolute gold. Step into the vibrant world of Expo West in this episode of the Startup CPG podcast where Daniel Scharff is joined by startup CPG sales legends Matt Levine from Chlorophyll Water, Clara Paye from Unite Foods, and Pierre Jamet from Fishwife. Join them as they share insider tips for Expo West - what to do before, during, and after the show to make the most of your opportunity. From prep hacks to pitch perfection, discover how to wow potential buyers. Master booth setup, keep samples fresh, and ace networking using LinkedIn and CPG Slack. Know the advanced strategies like the "buyer pick 'n roll," stand out in the crowd, and get tips on chasing down a buyer in the aisle. Whether you're a pro or a rookie, this episode gives you expert advice, anecdotes, and actionable strategies that can elevate your trade show adventure. Tune in now! Listen in as Matt, Pierre and Clara share about: Preparation and Goal-Setting Engaging Attendees with Concise Pitches Booth Planning and Fresh Samples Active Engagement and Decoy System Networking and Grant Opportunities Sample Distribution and Engagement Effective Post-Show Follow-ups Networking with Distributors Booth Design and Confidence Booth Management Strategies Protecting Energy and Handling Criticism Utilizing Brokers Business Card Strategies Episode Links: Matt Levine’s Website Matt Levine’s LinkedIn Clara’s Website Clara’s LinkedIn Pierre’s Website 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 chats with Ehime Eigbe-Akindele, founder of Sweet Kiwi, a frozen whipped Greek yogurt brand that combines functional nutrition with irresistible taste. Ehime shares her inspiring journey from working in bankruptcy litigation at Citigroup to creating a delicious and nutritious product. She talks about her leap into entrepreneurship, the pivotal moments that shaped Sweet Kiwi, and how she turned an idea from her home kitchen into a product featured in major retailers like Whole Foods. Ehime dives into the challenges of scaling a frozen product, the importance of branding and customer connection, and the lessons learned from navigating retail negotiations. She also discusses the value of building strong retailer relationships, the impact of rebranding, and the innovative collaborations Sweet Kiwi is pursuing—like their upcoming Smurfs-inspired product launch. Tune in to learn how Ehime is building a brand that's not only delicious but also impactful for communities! Listen in as they share about: Background of Sweet Kiwi Early Journey and Challenges Retail Strategy and Lessons Scaling the Brand Rebranding and Customer Insights Team and Growth Management Vision for 2025 and Beyond Advice for Founders Episode Links: Website: https://www.sweetkiwi.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theehime/ 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 bonus episode of The Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with supply chain expert Aaron Alpeter, founder of Izba, to break down the latest tariff changes and what they mean for CPG brands. With new tariffs potentially impacting goods from Mexico, Canada, and China, Aaron explains the potential ripple effects on supply chains, pricing, and business strategies. From understanding the true objectives behind these tariffs to exploring practical steps brands can take—like tariff engineering, cost sensitivity analysis, and alternative sourcing—this episode offers a crucial deep dive into a rapidly evolving situation. Listen in as they share about: Purpose of the Tariffs Tariff Rates Effect on Foreign Brands Selling in the U.S. Immediate Impact on Businesses Business Strategies to Adapt Future of the Tariffs Episode Links: Website: https://www.izba.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-alpeter/?originalSubdomain=ca 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, Daniel Scharff is joined by John Lane, Category Manager for Snacks & Commercial Bread at Raley's, a division of The Raley's Companies (formerly Pantry buyer), to explore the evolving grocery landscape and the secrets behind Raley's success as a trusted grocery store chain for nearly 90 years. John shares his journey from bagging groceries to leading category management, insights into Raley's health-focused initiatives, and strategies for balancing legacy brands with emerging market entrants. Discover actionable advice for startups on standing out in the crowded grocery market, the importance of passion and planning in brand pitches, and how Raley's is shaping the future of healthy snacking. Don’t miss this insightful conversation—tune in now and follow the Startup CPG podcast for more episodes like this! Listen in as they share about: Overview of Raley’s Health and Wellness Initiatives Industry Trends and Snack Innovations Balancing Legacy and Emerging Brands Supporting Brands at Raley's Success Stories in Product Launches Networking and Trade Shows Episode Links: Website: https://www.raleys.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlane-raleys/ 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 sits down with Brian Bethke, founder of BEAR Maple Farms and winner of the 2024 Shelfie Award in the drink category. Brian shares his inspiring journey from building amplifiers for rock legends like Pearl Jam and Lenny Kravitz to creating a one-of-a-kind functional beverage featuring ginseng and maple water. Discover how BEAR Maple Farms combines the natural sweetness of maple water with the adaptogenic power of sustainably grown ginseng to deliver a refreshing, caffeine-free energy boost. Brian opens up about the challenges and triumphs of launching a CPG brand, the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial journey, and how critical feedback led to a transformative rebrand. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply a fan of innovative beverages, this episode is packed with insights on building a team, navigating the CPG industry, and creating a product that’s good for the mind, body, and planet. Tune in to hear Brian’s story and learn how BEAR Maple is expanding nationally in 2025! Listen in as they share about: BEAR Maple Farms Origin Story Product Development Branding and Marketing Sales and Distribution Strategy Mentorship and Networking Community and Support Advice to Entrepreneurs Plans for 2025 Episode Links: Website: https://drinkbearmaple.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bethke/ 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, Daniel Scharff welcomes Caitlin Bricker, editor at Startup CPG, to dive into her journey from food service to retail buying and now to the editorial world. Caitlin shares her passion for finding purpose-driven brands, her insights into the evolving CPG ecosystem, and her unique perspective shaped by personal and professional experiences—including transformative moments that have influenced her approach to life and work. They discuss Caitlin’s role at Startup CPG, her commitment to highlighting innovative brands, and her favorite discoveries like Jubilee’s no sugar added, kid-friendly milk. From community events to virtual mixers and upcoming initiatives like the Grocery Run series, Caitlin reveals what makes Startup CPG’s ecosystem such a vibrant space for emerging brands. Whether you're a founder, a buyer, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of the CPG world, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable takeaways. Listen now! 📣 Want to get involved? Join the Startup CPG Slack community, explore free resources, and connect with like-minded innovators. Visit startupcpg.com and follow us for updates on upcoming events and initiatives. Don't miss this chance to level up your CPG journey! Listen in as they share about: Caitlin’s Role at Startup CPG Daily Work and Observations Personal and Professional Journey CPG Ecosystem and Philosophy CPG Community and Mission Events and Community Engagement Favorite Brands and Trends Team Dynamics and Outlook Advice for Brands and Community Members Episode Links: 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 chats with Jana Goodbaum, co-founder of Happy Wolf, a snack company revolutionizing toddler and kids' snacks with their "wildly simple" refrigerated bars. Jana shares her journey from advertising executive to entrepreneurial mom, driven by the frustration of limited healthy snack options for her child. Discover how Jana and her co-founder, Derek, navigated challenges like product development, sourcing allergen-free ingredients, finding the perfect co-packer, and educating consumers about their innovative refrigerated snack bars. Jana also dives into the importance of strategic branding, leveraging influencers, building a passionate community, and their milestone launch in Whole Foods. Tune in to hear how Happy Wolf is reshaping the kids' snack market, the trends driving clean eating innovation, and Jana's insights for startups entering retail and trade shows like Expo West. Don’t miss this inspiring episode. Tune in now! Listen in as they share about: Happy Wolf Overview and Founding Story Product Development Branding and Marketing Retail and Distribution Community and Social Media Advertising and Promotions Future Goals Episode Links: Website: https://happywolf.com/ Instagram: @happywolfsnacks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janagoodbaum/?originalSubdomain=ca 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, Daniel Scharff dives into the strategies and challenges of bootstrapping with three inspiring founders who have transformed bold ideas into thriving businesses—all without outside funding. Ryan Hansen, co-founder of Hazards Hop Water, shares how he scaled a six-figure non-alcoholic beverage brand by targeting unique markets and forging key partnerships. Carrie Sporer, co-founder of SWAIR Hair, reveals how she’s redefining hair care for fitness enthusiasts with her innovative showerless shampoo, all while navigating co-founder dynamics and scaling with strategic funding choices. Ketan Vakil, founder of Gourmend Foods, discusses his mission to revolutionize gut-friendly gourmet products and shares lessons on building a loyal customer base and staying lean through production challenges. These founders share valuable insights on navigating the challenges of bootstrapping, scaling effectively, and staying true to their vision. Listen now to learn the secrets behind their success and get inspired to tackle your next big idea! To submit your brand for a future call-in episode: https://bit.ly/cpgstories Listen in as they share about: Ryan Hansen - Hazards Hop Water - Hazards Hop Water Overview -Bootstrapping Strategy - Revenue and Sales - Future Plans Carrie Sporer - Swear Hair - Swear Hair Overview - Bootstrapping Strategy - Funding Experience - Future Plans Ketan Vakil - Gourmend Foods - Gourmand Foods Overview - Bootstrapping Approach - Challenges & Key Strategies - Achievements - Future Plans Episode Links: Ryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-hansen-mba-72795a56/ Website: https://hazardshopwater.com/ Carrie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriesporer/ Website: https://www.swairhair.com Ketan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ketanvakil/ Website: https://www.gourmendfoods.com 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 sits down with Becca Wright, the founder of Piedmont Pennies, to discuss the journey of turning a cherished family recipe into a thriving business. Becca shares the story behind her signature bite-sized cheesy biscuit crackers, inspired by her granddad’s recipe from North Carolina, and how she transitioned from corporate America to starting her own business. Learn about the challenges and success of bootstrapping a CPG brand, navigating manufacturing processes, scaling while maintaining quality, and finding unique retail opportunities that align with the brand's identity. Becca also opens up about the joys of building a team, creating meaningful connections with employees, and staying true to her vision despite the pressures of the industry. Whether you’re curious about the ins and outs of manufacturing, retail expansion strategies, or the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship, this episode offers a candid, inspiring look at the hustle behind Piedmont Pennies. Plus, don’t miss Becca’s tips on staying grounded and building a business with heart. Join us for this conversation, and don’t forget to check out Piedmont Pennies at piedmontpennies.com . Use code STARTUPCPG for 15% off your order and support small businesses! Listen in as they share about: Inspiration and Founding Story of Piedmont Pennies Manufacturing Process Retail Expansion and Marketing Bootstrapping and Funding Company Values Customer Engagement Community and Support Future Goals Episode Links: Website: https://piedmontpennies.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beccajordanwright/ 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, Daniel Scharff sits down with Sean Goldsmith, co-founder of The Zero Proof, the largest online direct-to-consumer retailer of adult non-alcoholic beverages. Sean shares insights into the booming non-alcoholic beverage market, exploring trends like Dry January, the rise of wellness-driven consumer habits, and the intersection of non-alcoholic options with broader societal shifts such as Ozempic's impact on cravings. They discuss the key demographics driving growth in the space, the unique appeal of non-alcoholic beers, wines, and spirits, and the occasions that make these drinks a special choice. Sean also dives into The Zero Proof’s journey, from its humble beginnings as a blog to becoming a dominant platform in the industry, and how the company collaborates with brands to bring exceptional products to consumers. Tune in to hear Sean’s bold predictions for the future of non-alcoholic beverages, practical advice for brands looking to partner with The Zero Proof, and his personal vision for making non-alcoholic options a staple in every consumer’s life! STARTUPCPG15 for 15% off at thezeroproof.com Listen in as they share about: The Zero Proof Business Model Working with Zero Proof Dry January and Market Trends Consumer Behavior Business Trends and Growth Cultural Observations Consumer Motivations Event Participation and Industry Presence Future Predictions Episode Links: Website: https://thezeroproof.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-goldsmith-480b184/ 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 welcomes Nikki Seaman, founder and CEO of Freestyle Snacks, to discuss the journey behind reimagining olives as a premium, convenient snack. Nikki shares her inspiration for launching Freestyle Snacks during the pandemic, identifying a gap in the market for fresh, flavorful olives packaged for modern, on-the-go lifestyles. From early product development to navigating over 200 co-packer rejections, Nikki provides a behind-the-scenes look at building a CPG brand from the ground up. Discover how her data-driven approach, innovative packaging, and strategic focus on diverse channels like grocery, hospitality, and even Delta Air Lines snack boxes have contributed to the brand’s success. If you’re curious about the intricacies of product design, scaling into retail, and creating a snack that stands out in a crowded market, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Listen in as they share about: Introduction to Freestyle Snacks Challenges in Early Development Product Development Go-to-Market Strategy Unique Brand Positioning Expansion and Key Channels Trends and Market Fit Episode Links: Website: https://www.freestylesnacking.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-seaman/ 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, Daniel Scharff and Lance Schwarzkopf take us behind the scenes of launching a food or beverage product. They break down the complexities of working with contract manufacturers, or "co-mans," to transform a concept into a market-ready product. Daniel and Lance share essential steps for emerging brands, from developing and protecting proprietary formulas to sourcing quality ingredients and securing critical documentation, like a process authority letter. They provide practical advice on finding a co-man - from the pre-work and product development that happens prior, to finding out the options, to outreach strategy, building effective co-man relationships, managing ingredient and packaging orders, and setting up agreements to ensure smooth production flow. Emphasizing the importance of communication, strategic planning, and proactive relationship management, Daniel and Lance offer valuable insights into overcoming production challenges and avoiding common industry pitfalls. Tune in to learn how to streamline your path to a successful launch! If you're ready to take your product from concept to market, don’t miss this episode and be sure to subscribe for more expert advice! Check out their co-man list via their website copack.net To inquire about their discounted search for Startup CPG community brands, email lance@copack.net and mention the Startup CPG rate! Listen in as they share about: Preparation Before Approaching Co-Manufacturers Sourcing Industrial Ingredients The Role of a Product Specification Document Process Authority and Shelf Life Studies Finding and Engaging a Co-Manufacturer Considerations for Hiring a Co-Man Search Partner Challenges in Co-Man Communication Initial Steps and Planning Contracts and Agreements Importance of QA and Benchmarks Production Day and Quality Control Warehousing and Distribution Resources and Support for Brands Episode Links: Website: http://copack.net/ Email: lance@copack.net LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanceschwarzkopf/ 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 sits down with Val Emanuel, the inspiring co-founder of Rif Care, a two-year-old feminine care brand that prioritizes sustainability and wellness. Val shares the journey behind Rif Care's creation, from identifying gaps in the market for elevated, eco-friendly period products to overcoming challenges in manufacturing and scaling the business. She opens up about her diverse career path, the importance of sustainability in product innovation, and the invaluable lessons learned from working at iconic companies like GOOP. Val delves into key entrepreneurial insights, including building a retail presence with brands like Erewhon, leveraging TikTok and social media for growth. She also highlights the realities of being a female founder of color, the role of grant funding, and the value of accelerators in driving business growth. Plus, Val shares practical advice on scaling a team, pursuing grants, and preparing for Riff Care’s 2025 goals, which include expanding retail partnerships and surpassing $1 million in sales. Don’t miss these actionable insights on navigating the CPG industry and building a sustainable brand —tune in now! Listen in as they share about: Origins of Riff Care Early Challenges and Launch Funding and Growth Strategies Marketing and Sales Identifying Market Gaps Marketing and Sales Strategies Challenges as a Founder Future Plans for 2025 Advice for Founders Episode Links: Website: https://rifcare.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valemanuel/ Instagram: malibumama__ 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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