Emerging Brands Podcast®
Welcome to Emerging Brands Podcast® with Kelly Bennett This is the podcast where you’ll discover the stories behind your new favorite CPG brands. Each episode dives into the brand and founder journey—how they launched, what sets them apart, and the strategy behind going to market. We talk plans for growth, practical advice for emerging founders, and where to shop the products making waves in food, beverage, wellness, and beyond. You’ll also hear from industry experts—brand builders, investors, and operators—who should absolutely be on your radar if you're growing a CPG brand today. Whether you’re building something of your own or love supporting what’s next, you’re in the right place.
info_outline
Behind the scenes with Kelly Bennett
06/05/2025
Behind the scenes with Kelly Bennett
With so many new listeners joining the Emerging Brands Podcast® lately, I thought now was the perfect time to reintroduce myself and share more about the work I do behind the scenes. I’m Kelly Bennett—a Brooklyn-based brand strategist with a front-row seat to what makes early-stage CPG food & beverage brands stand out. I’ve advised over 1,000 founders and stay tapped into what’s working in the industry through my client work, this podcast, and collaborations like Bread & Butter®—a trademark law firm protecting emerging CPG brands. Inside the Episode: How I went from bootstrapping a plant-based restaurant in Downtown Las Vegas building national buzz and a multi-location brand— and career pivot to CPG food & beverage The strategy framework I use to help first-time founders launch standout brands that belongs on retail shelves What you’ll walk away with when we work together—and why story, strategy, and execution matter from day one I also share more about my newest project, At Home with Kelly Bennett—a Substack where I bring you inside my home, lifestyle, and the food, beverage, and wellness brands I’m loving right now. Thank you so much for catching up with me! Bringing a new product to market? Let’s talk! withkellybennett.com This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36856530
info_outline
Seenaya
06/03/2025
Seenaya
Saman and Maha are the mother-daughter duo behind Seenaya, a skincare brand born from a deep love of their Pakistani heritage and a desire to share its generational beauty rituals with the world. Inspired by family’s remedies and the natural ingredients they grew up with, they created Seenaya to preserve and celebrate the power of ancestral skincare—blending traditions with modern science. With each product, they’re not just offering results-driven skincare—they’re building a bridge between generations and creating a global community rooted in authenticity, culture, and nature. Inside the Episode: How Seenaya grew from family rituals into a purpose-driven brand honoring Pakistani beauty traditions The intentional blend of heritage ingredients and modern formulation strategy that sets Seenaya apart Advice for founders building a brand rooted in cultural storytelling and international markets This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36838285
info_outline
Philo
06/03/2025
Philo
Erica Bonelli is the founder of Philo—a full-service event planning and art direction studio inspired by Philoxenia, the ancient Greek art of hospitality. With a background in tech and food media, Erica launched Philo to help brands tell their story through intentional, in-person experiences that create lasting emotional impact. Today, Philo specializes in brand launch events, experiential activations, and visual storytelling for emerging CPG, food, and beverage brands—blending aesthetic magic with strategic thinking to build connection and drive growth. For the launch of Bread & Butter (a trademark law firm protecting CPG food & beverage brands), Erica curated a standout dinner that seamlessly wove together brand messaging, client offers, and meaningful partnerships—while sourcing the best local vendors to bring the vision to life. I recommend Erica to all my clients. Inside the Episode: How Erica’s upbringing in a first-generation Greek household—and her background in tech and food styling—shaped the ethos behind Philo Her approach to creating brand activations that go beyond aesthetics to spark genuine connection, loyalty, and emotional resonance Advice for founders planning their first event or launch experience, and what to prioritize to make it truly memorableListen here This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36838250
info_outline
Jason B James
05/25/2025
Jason B James
Jason B James is a photographer and graphic artist celebrated for his bold, surreal, and concept-driven style. He transforms unconventional subjects into vivid, imaginative visuals that resonate with both local and global audiences. With a signature blend of creativity and practicality, Jason approaches every project—whether a product campaign, hospitality rebrand, CPG shoot, or food editorial—as a chance to tell a story, push creative boundaries, and keep the process collaborative and fun. Inside the episode How Jason carved out a niche photographing standout visuals for CPG food brands His strategy for creating scroll-stopping, story-driven brand imagery Expert advice for emerging founders preparing for their first professional photoshoot This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36691765
info_outline
Citrus Diaries Studio
05/25/2025
Citrus Diaries Studio
Lauren Hodgen is a passionate food enthusiast and the creative force behind Citrus Diaries Studio—a design and social media agency dedicated to elevating food and beverage brands. Since launching her platform in 2018, Lauren has blended her personal wellness journey with creative strategy, building a business rooted in storytelling, authenticity, and visual impact. Today, she helps emerging brands show up with clarity and consistency across digital channels. Inside the episode How Lauren’s personal journey with wellness and food led to launching Citrus Diaries Studio Her approach to creating brand visuals and content that connects Advice for food & beverage founders trying to stand out online and grow community organically This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36626465
info_outline
Unbothered Foods
05/25/2025
Unbothered Foods
Morgan Murdock is a digestive health dietitian turned founder on a mission to make gut-friendly foods more joyful, accessible, and delicious. Through her brand, Unbothered Foods, she’s reimagining snack time with sourdough crackers designed specifically for the GI community. With deep expertise in nutrition and a passion for people, Morgan is creating products that support digestive health and a positive relationship with food—without compromising flavor or fun. Inside the episode How Morgan’s work as a digestive health dietitian led to the creation of Unbothered Foods The strategy behind formulating a cracker that’s both gut-friendly and delicious Practical advice for first-time founders bringing a health-forward product to market This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36626440
info_outline
Smearcase
05/19/2025
Smearcase
In a recent episode, I talked with Joe Rotondo, Founder & CEO of Smearcase, shared the story behind launching FroCo—the world’s first frozen cottage cheese dessert. The idea was born during marathon training when Joe couldn't find a high-protein ice cream option. This led him to experiment with cottage cheese and eventually developing a product that offers 40 grams of protein per pint. Smearcase quickly scaled from a kitchen experiment to being stocked in over 100 stores, including Whole Foods and Sprouts, within a year. The brand's name, "Smearcase," is derived from the German word "schmierkäse," meaning cottage cheese, reflecting its roots and mission to redefine healthy indulgence. This is a great episode for an emerging brand founder (especially in frozen)! Inside the episode The Origin Story: How a post-run craving during marathon training sparked the idea for a high-protein frozen treat made with cottage cheese From Kitchen to Shelves: The rapid journey of Smearcase—from homemade experiments to landing in 100+ stores, including Whole Foods and Sprouts, in under a year Retail Breakthrough: The tradeshow that catapulted Smearcase into retail distribution Advice for Founders: Joe’s unfiltered insights for emerging CPG founders—especially those navigating the complexities of launching a frozen product This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36572465
info_outline
Brami
05/18/2025
Brami
I sat down with Aaron Gatti, a first-generation Italian American and the founder of Brami, a brand that’s reinventing Italian slow-food traditions for the modern consumer. Aaron’s passion for heritage, health, and innovation shows up in every part of Brami—from their Lupini Bean Snacks to their Italian Protein Pasta, both made in Italy and packed with plant-based protein. In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to bring something new (and meaningful) to shelf, how Brami balances authenticity with convenience, and the power of staying true to your roots while building a brand that resonates with today’s shoppers. If you're creating a better-for-you product or trying to bring a cultural twist to the CPG space, you’ll want to hear this one. Inside the episode Aaron’s story of being first-generation Italian American with a deep connection to Italian food culture Brami’s mission to modernize Italy’s ancient food wisdom for today’s health-conscious consumer Why they focuse on nutrient density + cultural authenticity as a unique positioning in the crowded snack and pasta categories Aaron’s advice to an emerging brand founder This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36617425
info_outline
Evolve Food Consultants
05/18/2025
Evolve Food Consultants
In this episode, I chatted with Esther Levy, a powerhouse in the natural and organic food & beverage space. With a BS in Food Science and an MBA, Esther brings deep industry knowledge and strategic insight—helping brands streamline operations and increase profitability. As the founder of Evolve Food Consultants, Esther supports CPG brands across every operational touchpoint: from co-manufacturer searches and food safety to product development, supply chain management, and third-party certifications. Her approach helps early-stage and growing brands avoid costly missteps and build a foundation for long-term success. Esther has worked with standout brands like: Good Girl Snacks – creators of the cult-favorite Hot Girl Picklers HomemadeISH – elegant, delicious, and easy-to-make cookies Tatsu Tea – performance matcha tea for energy and refreshment Popped Republic (Chesapeake Bay Snacks) – indulgent popcorn done right Craize – Latin-inspired non-GMO snack crackers Yough – the original yogurt pizza: more protein, fewer calories Miami Twist Hummus – clean-label hummus with bold flavor CoAqua – the coconut water people swear is the best they’ve ever tasted If you’re a CPG founder navigating operations, scaling production, or searching for the right partners, this episode is a must-listen! Inside the episode Esther’s journey into the natural & organic CPG world—and how she became a behind-the-scenes powerhouse The story behind launching Evolve Food Consultants How she helps early-stage brands avoid costly mistakes and scale with confidence Esther’s top advice for emerging food & beverage founders navigating growth This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36572490
info_outline
Sunnie
05/12/2025
Sunnie
Sunnie offers wholesome, grab-and-go snacks made exclusively with clean, whole food ingredients for today's busy families. Every Sunnie product is crafted without seed oils, refined sugars, or artificial additives, making it easy to nourish your family. Sunnie was born from a shared mission between two moms, Lisette and Katy, who wanted better for their families. Frustrated by endless grocery store searches for packaged snacks made with clean, simple ingredients, they decided to create what they couldn't find. Katy Tucker, Co-founder brings us behind the brand! Inside the episode Katy’s professional background before becoming a CPG founder Early production days of Sunnie to receiving a purchase order from Target Sunnie’s brand strategy to expanding into larger retailers Katy’s advice for an emerging brand founder This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36480640
info_outline
Besto
05/12/2025
Besto
Besto is the first ever nut-free, seed oil-free, gluten- free pesto. Kaureen Randhawa created Besto because of her lifelong nut allergy and passion for better for you, whole food ingredients. Kaureen brings us behind-the-scenes of how she launched and now scaling Besto! Inside the episode Kaureen’s career before becoming a CPG founder (and why she made the leap!) Besto’s brand story (it started with a logo on Canva) Besto’s brand strategy of bringing the first ever nut-free, seed oil-free, gluten- free pesto to market Kaureen’s advice for an emerging brand founder This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36480650
info_outline
Wims
05/11/2025
Wims
Wims brings you portable drink mixers for however and wherever you socialize. In your cocktail or mocktail, seltzer or soda. A night out in your tent, brunch after yoga, that concert in the park, drinks before dinner, an afternoon tailgate. Wims created a drink mixer that elevates any beverage and occasion. Each pouch contains a balanced, perfectly measured blend of active ingredients. Founder Lauren Miller takes us behind the scenes of this unique brand! Inside the episode Lauren’s career background and what led her to create a CPG brand The unique product development and user experience of Wims Strategy behind creating storytelling content & customer use cases Advice for an emerging brand founder This podcast episode was made possible by is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36440670
info_outline
Shooka
05/07/2025
Shooka
Natasha Brao is on a mission to share the deeper meaning behind the classic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern one-pan dish, Shakshuka. Shooka celebrates mixing and melding different cultural flavors leading to new recipes, ideas, and conversations. Originally from Los Angeles, she got her start in Upstate NY. Coming from the design industry, she found her way into CPG by stepping out of her comfort zone and entering many business pitch competitions during grad school. She went on to create Shooka, a thick, chunky, tomato-based sauce meant to be served with poached eggs in a skillet with crusty bread — but you can add anything you want! Here’s Natasha’s story of fundraising during college to launch her brand. Inside the episode Why Natasha wanted to create a shakshuka inspired tomato sauce The original brand concept for Shooka and why it shifted Strategy for fundraising Advice for an emerging brand founder starting to pitch for funding This podcast episode was made possible by . is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36467820
info_outline
SaladSprinkles
05/06/2025
SaladSprinkles
Blakely and Jordan are best friends who share a love of good design and great food. They met in art school fifteen years ago and have been working in the creative industry ever since. Together, they created SaladSprinkles; a toasted flavored rice puffs that put crunch in every bite! They’re are vegan, gluten-free, and women-owned. #NoMoreCroutons Learn their story of launching SaladSprinkles! Inside the episode How Blakely and Jordan balance busy careers and family while building an emerging brand The inspiration behind creating SaladSprinkles Strategy for reaching new retail partners and consumers Advice for an emerging brand founder This podcast episode was made possible by . is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36440900
info_outline
Quit with Jones
05/06/2025
Quit with Jones
Friends Caroline Huber and Hilary Dubin casually used nicotine when JUUL was the hot, healthier alternative to smoking. It was “just on the weekends” or “just for special events.” Before they knew it, it became impossible to go even a few hours without vaping. Eventually, science caught up with their intuition, and research on the harmful effects of vaping became too obvious to ignore. They decided we would quit… but it was much harder than we expected. They tried everything: throwing all our vapes out, telling friends they were quitting, leaving them behind when they’d visit families…. the list goes on. Each time they found themselves back at the smoke shop buying another vape. From this long, tumultuous quitting experience (and in consultation with medical experts), Jones was born. Now Caroline and Hilary are on a mission to create a judgment-free journey to a healthier life. Jones provides holistic support to help you reach your goals with nicotine, whatever they are. They combine FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) mints with community and digital behavioral support to create a clinically effective & modern approach. Listen to Caroline and Hilary’s story launching the brand! Inside the episode The personal story of Caroline and Hilary wanting to quit vaping How Jones connects community with a consumable product Strategy to launch Advice for an emerging brand founder This podcast episode was made possible by . is a platform that connects everyday, smaller creators with brands to share in-store user-generated content, drive brand awareness in specific retailers, and capture competitive market share. They’re an awesome platform that I recommend to all my clients that you should absolutely check out. Go to for all the details.
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36440800
info_outline
The Zero Proof
04/28/2025
The Zero Proof
The Zero Proof is the leading non-alcoholic beverage online retailer with over 30+ brands to savor. With a commitment to quality, the premium site showcases a diverse array of alcohol-free options, from top-tier NA wine to whiskey alternatives and Swedish amaros. The Zero Proof distributes its own brands Saint Viviana and Lapo’s in addition to being the exclusive importer to esteemed brands from around the world. The Zero Proof extends its passion for premium NA offerings to a wider audience by enriching the landscape of alcohol-free enjoyment and guiding individuals towards a balanced and enjoyable life without compromise. In addition to sharing the best NA spirits, The Zero Proof also acts like a trusted friend to guide you to the best NA-friendly bars and restaurants, tourist hotspots, and booze-free activities around the world. After experiencing the limitations of alcohol-free options first hand, Sean Goldsmith embarked on a mission to revolutionize the industry. With a background in financial data analysis, he co-founded The Zero Proof, initially, as a blog that evolved into a venture capital-backed startup. Sean's vision extends beyond just providing alternatives; he aims to offer a space with more choice, while also providing a premium and inclusive experience for all. As The Zero Proof continues to expand its reach and offerings to those looking to cut back on drinking without compromising on fun, Sean remains committed to pushing boundaries and unlocking the full potential of the adult NA category. On this episode, Sean is taking us behind the brand to discuss strategy, the non-alcoholic industry, and advice to an emerging founder embarking in the space. Inside the episode Sean’s founder story living an alcohol-free lifestyle lead to starting a business How a blog that evolved into a venture capital-backed startup The Zero Proof’s strategy to become the leading retailer in a growingly competitive industry Advice for an early-stage founder launching an non alc brand
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36047400
info_outline
Curious Elixirs
04/27/2025
Curious Elixirs
Curious Elixirs is a booze-free adaptogenic craft cocktail brand with the mission to redefine how people drink socially. JW Wiseman was inspired to explore his curiosity about life with less booze and started Curious Elixirs in 2015. He previously founded his marketing agency Good Business, working with Daily Harvest and Chomps. Also in the hospitality and nightlife scene. He’s taking us behind the brand with a decade of experience and looking to the years ahead. Inside the episode JW’s background in hospitality and nightlight led to creating a booze-free craft cocktail brand The evolution of Curious Elixirs since launching a decade ago Strategy behind staying competitive in a growingly competitive industry Advice to an emerging founder in the non alc space
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36214505
info_outline
Studio Bumi
04/27/2025
Studio Bumi
The future of pop-up is communal. Studio Bumi is a food experience company on a mission to make people excited about eating together again. Tech attorney turned food entrepreneur, Bagus W Ruswandi is building a mission-driven food ventures in community. Here’s a look of how it’s happening! Inside the episode Bagus’ story of tech attorney to food entrepreneur Studio Bumi’s strategy of sustainable business growth while keeping people at the center Advice for an emerging food brand that’s people first
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36214490
info_outline
Pistakio
04/09/2025
Pistakio
Pistakio is reimagining pistachios for a new generation of pistachio lovers by creating goes-on-anything spreads that are fun, authentic, and approachable. Fran & Nico started this journey with $1000 during their last year of college, by simply setting up a little booth at the local farmers market with their logo and “pistachios reimagined” under it. After seeing how many pistachio lovers couldn’t wait get their hands on the pistachio spreads, they decided to launch this thing for real. They’ve been featured on the Today Show, Eater, Food & Wine, Entrepreneur magazine, and much more. Such a great story about starting small and building community around your product! Inside the episode Fran and Nico’s founder story to CPG food and beverage Why they wanted to launch a spreadable pistachio Strategy for creating buzz and standing out Advice for an emerging brand founder who’s about to launch
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36047420
info_outline
Alice Mushrooms
04/09/2025
Alice Mushrooms
Alice is spreading the power of functional mushrooms in the most delightful ways possible with decadent chocolate supplements for sleep, energy and focus that have the wellness world by storm. Founders Lindsay and Charlotte met in 2020 and bonded over their shared passion for food as medicine. Lindsay, a former pharmaceutical executive, and Charlotte, a media expert and food scholar, were tired of a supplement world dominated by pills, bitter tinctures, unnatural gummies, and clumpy powders. That’s when Lindsay decided to create a product she would want to use every day and started formulating alice in her kitchen in Venice Beach. The two then teamed up to create the perfect blend of medicinal + culinary delights in each bite of alice. On this episode, Lindsay and Charlotte bring us behind the scenes! Inside the episode Lindsay’s founder story from pharmaceutical executive to functional mushroom founder Alice’s brand story of developing chocolate supplements for sleep, energy and focus Strategy to stand out and brand partnerships Advice for an emerging brand founder starting a brand from their kitchen
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/36047430
info_outline
Solento Organic Tequila
04/07/2025
Solento Organic Tequila
Over the past two decades, Taylor Steele has immersed himself in the global community, serving as creative director of Corona Australia and creating films for National Geographic. Eventually landing in New York City, he experienced an unlikely revelation after an artist friend introduced him to premium sipping tequila. In that simple ritual, Taylor tapped into the possibility of bringing purpose to pleasure: drinking not to disconnect, but to slow down and savor each moment. With the founding of Solento Organic Tequila, Taylor now extends his treasured ritual to all those looking to realign with their own truest essence. Born in New York City but steeped in California soul, Solento embodies the charmed duality that defines Taylor, ultimately creating space for a much-needed celebration of presence in even the most fast-paced of lives. Inside the episode Taylor’s career shift from an award-winning filmmaker to CPG founder Solento Organic Tequila’s brand story to encourage people to slow down Strategy behind engaging with consumers and strategic partners Advice to an emerging brand founder
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35958255
info_outline
Beny Yogurt
04/01/2025
Beny Yogurt
Beny Yogurt is your daily probiotic supplement - a delicious organic dairy yogurt made specifically for your gut. Kirsten (Kiki) recently jumped ship to co-found Beny Yogurt, a high-protein, low-carb dairy yogurt packed with the probiotic benefits of a supplement—no pills required. Though this is Kiki's first foray into the food CPG space (prior she worked in private equity at Alpine Investors), it is by no means a surprise to anyone who knows her. Kiki grew up in Northern California and comes from a family of dairy farmers. She holds a Bachelor's from Stanford University in Human Biology. In building Beny Yogurt, Kiki is merging her love of health, science, and her agricultural roots to create something truly special. Here’s the behind the scenes of how Beny Yogurt is coming to market! Inside the episode Kiki’s career leap from private equity to CPG founder The story behind how the idea of Beny Yogurt Strategy behind creating community and demand for the brand Advice for an emerging brand founder getting ready to launch!
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35789615
info_outline
Sip Solo
04/01/2025
Sip Solo
Sip Solo offers a premium line of deliciously crafted flavored syrups designed to elevate your favorite beverages. Perfect for adding a unique twist to coffee, tea, matcha, mocktails, and cocktails. Sip Solo syrups are created for on-the-go consumers. Founder Tammy Bowser leveraged her 20+ years experience in corporate accounting, corporate strategy and corporate partnerships prepared her to launch a CPG brand. Tammy is bringing us behind the scenes! Inside the episode Tammy’s career shift from corporate accounting to CPG founder The inspiration behind creating Sip Solo Strategy to launch into independent retailers Advice for an emerging brand founder
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35958240
info_outline
Beituti
04/01/2025
Beituti
Rawia Abdelsamad grew up in Lebanon and now calls Cleveland home. A mom of three, she pivoted from a career in management consulting to pursue her passion for food and cultural representation. This led her to create Beituti, a Lebanese-American food brand. Beituti aims to bring the vibrant flavors of the Middle East to grocery shelves, making it easier for families to cook and enjoy authentic and healthy meals at home. Inside the episode Rawia’s story leaving her career in management consulting to launch a Lebanese-American food brand Where the idea for Beituti came from Strategy to scale by building local brand community Advice for an emerging brand founder starting a food line
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35958230
info_outline
Mikuna
03/23/2025
Mikuna
MIKUNA is redefining plant protein with Chocho, a nutrient-dense superfood grown regeneratively at high altitudes in the Andes. Rooted in Ecuadorian heritage, their products deliver clean, powerful nutrition while supporting regenerative agriculture and empowering local farming communities. They believe in fueling people and protecting the planet, one scoop at a time. Mikuna was founded by fifth-generation Ecuadorian farmer and former professional athlete, Ricky Echanique. On this episode, Ricky is taking us behind the brand. Inside the episode Ricky Echanique’s founder story as a fifth-generation Ecuadorian farmer and former professional athlete Why Ricky created a brand to bring Chocho to new markets Strategy marketing Chocho in the United States Advice for an emerging brand founder marketing an unknown ingredient to most US consumers
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35610960
info_outline
NOON
03/23/2025
NOON
NOON blends age-old adaptive, cognitive-enhancing plant technology, like functional mushrooms, with neuroscience to create next-generation, science-backed delights that support peak mental performance. Jane Wong, co-founder, CCO, and CEO of NOON, is a globally sought-after creative leader with over 15 years of expertise in design, technology, and innovation. And she’s taking us behind NOON. Inside the episode Jane Wong’s story going from design and technology to CPG NOON’s brand story of creating a science-backed gummy Strategy going to market and standing out Advice to emerging CPG founders
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35790050
info_outline
Hanni
03/23/2025
Hanni
Hanni is bodycare so easy to use, it's impossible to forget. no creams, lotions or scrubs here, all of their products are unlike anything you've seen before and are made for one reason only - to make life easier. Inspired by this gap in the market, Leslie Tessler created Hanni, named after her youngest daughter, Hannah. The brand launched with a fresh approach to bodycare—prioritizing simplicity, nourishment, and high-performance formulas that transform the skin with minimal effort. Hanni’s award-winning products are clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and clinically tested to deliver visible results. From the cult-favorite Splash Salve, which locks in moisture while you’re still in the shower, to the Shave Pillow, a waterless alternative to traditional shaving creams, Hanni is setting a new standard in bodycare. Inside the episode Leslie Tessler’s personal story of becoming a bodycare founder How Hanni brings something new to a crowded bodycare market with innovation and function Strategy to launch at Sephora Advice to an emerging brand founder building a CPG brand
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35789770
info_outline
Party Of
03/19/2025
Party Of
Better, bolder snacks. Born of four Thai-American sisters with a love for the unexpected, Party Of makes crushable snacks with serious flavor. Just like us, our snacks are a joyful blend: familiar yet surprising. Authentic yet accessible. Inside the episode Founder story of 4 sisters launching a snack brand Brand story of Party Of Strategy to launch and stand out in a crowded snack market Advice to an emerging brand founder who’s creating a new product Sponsored by Hummingbirds
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35611010
info_outline
The Real Cereal Company
03/19/2025
The Real Cereal Company
The Real Cereal Company reinvents classic cereals with organic, clean ingredients. With zero added sugar, gluten-free, and non-GMO options, they bring nostalgic crunch to modern, health-conscious consumers. Tom Binder, Co-Founder of The Real Cereal Company brings 10+ years of experience in marketing and sales. Tom shares his passion about disrupting traditional industries with innovative, consumer-focused solutions. Inside the episode Tom’s founder story bringing 10+ years of experience The Real Cereal Company’s brand story Strategy behind creating a clean cereal brand and who they worked with to go to market Advice for an emerging brand founder Sponsored by
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35512760
info_outline
Expo West Recap with Nate Rosen
03/19/2025
Expo West Recap with Nate Rosen
Such a fun conversation with Nate Rosen, founder on his deep dive of Expo West. We got to talk shop about our hot takes of what we discovered! Inside the episode Brands that caught Nate & Kelly’s attention Trends we discovered at Expo West (and Nate’s thoughts on trends) Advice for emerging founders on when to show at Expo West And more! Sponsored by Hummingbirds
/episode/index/show/8066cddd-868a-43bc-a783-6c46bbd08d39/id/35789680