The Startup CPG Podcast

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy delves deep into the world of clean, plastic-free beauty with Justin Wolff, the founder behind Junk Theory. They discuss Junk Theory's genesis and mission to end the plastic era in beauty. From strategic partnerships to sustainable packaging innovations, they explore every facet of building a brand that prioritizes both product quality and planet-friendly practices. Justin shares the brand's commitment to offering premium-quality products while staying true to its ethos of honesty and authenticity. Through a curated range of essential skincare products, Junk Theory aims to redefine beauty standards and inspire a new generation of conscious consumers. Listen now and join the movement towards cleaner, greener beauty! Listen in as they share about: Episode Links: Junk Theory’s Website Justin Wolff’s 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

Join Daniel Scharff and special guest Darren Viscount, senior natural living category manager at Bristol Farms, in this episode of Startup CPG Podcast as they explore the world of emerging health and wellness brands. Darren shares his passion for natural living products, which are influenced by his personal health journey and his overcoming of cancer. Discover the latest trends in gut health items and learn about successful brand strategies that foster emotional connections. Darren highlights the importance of empathy, kindness, and personal connections in his career. He reveals his meticulous approach to selecting new brands and unveils exciting plans for his upcoming podcast, which will focus on promoting community-building and industry insights through a unique roundtable format. Darren's dedication to connecting with people, prioritizing relationships, and empowering team members within retail environments is evident. Hear about his innovative strategies for team empowerment, inclusivity, and creating excitement around natural living products through themed events. Tune in now Listen in as Darren shares about: Episode Links: Bristol Farm’s Website Darren Viscount’s 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy sits down with Spencer Hoddeson, the CEO of Gay Water. They delve into the inspiration behind creating Gay Water, a mission-driven brand that is aiming to increase representation for the queer community in the alcohol space. With a rich background in media and tech, Spencer shares his journey of developing Gay Water, highlighting the personal experiences and meaningful conversations that shaped the brand. They explore the challenges of entering a competitive market and how Spencer's commitment to vibrant packaging and purpose-driven marketing has struck a chord with millennial and Gen Z consumers. Spencer candidly discusses overcoming founder-related stresses like imposter syndrome through prioritization, stress management techniques, and the power of positive customer feedback. Discover how Gay Water is making waves in the beverage industry through strategic branding and a deep commitment to community representation. Tune in now!! Listen in as they share about: Episode Links: Gay Water’s Website Gay Water’s Instagram 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of the Startup CPG podcast as he delves into the intricacies of exhibiting at distributor shows within the food and beverage industry with Samuel Jacobson, Senior Director of Key Accounts and Alternate Channels at HOP WTR. They explore the distinct dynamics of UNFI and KeHE shows, contrasting them with larger shows like Expo West. From buyer prep and negotiation tactics to booth management and cost-saving strategies, Daniel and Samuel offer valuable insights for optimizing trade show participation. Whether you're a vendor seeking to drive business growth or a buyer looking for new products, this episode provides essential tips. Tune in now! Listen in to hear about: Episode Links: HOP WTR’s Website HOP WTR’s Instagram Samuel Jacobson’s 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast as she speaks with Jia Liao, the founder of Hotpot Queen, to explore her remarkable journey in the CPG industry. Discover how Jia’s brand brings the authentic, bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine to life with high-quality ingredients like wild mushrooms and fermented sauces. Hot Pot Queen’s products are not only bursting with the distinctive taste of málà but are also gluten-free, vegan, and MSG-free, making them a hit among spicy food enthusiasts. Learn about the legacy behind the brand name, inspired by Jia’s family’s rich history in Chinese hot pot restaurants, and how her mother’s innovative spirit has influenced her mission to popularize her regional cuisine worldwide. Jia shares her experiences overcoming challenges in product packaging and manufacturing, emphasizing the crucial role of community support and strategic focus on specific sales channels for success. Ready to spice up your culinary experience? Tune in now! Listen in as they share about: Episode Links: Hotpot Queen’s Website Jia Liao’s 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

In this episode of Startup CPG Podcast, join Daniel Scharff and Kenny Hausmann, an 18-year veteran of the grocery industry, to discuss the accessibility of natural foods and the commitment to health and innovation. Kenny shares his career journey, from his early days in stores to becoming a category manager, highlighting his passion for health and alignment with Fresh Thyme's values. They explore recent industry events like Expo West and the first large-scale CPG Shabbat, discussing the importance of human connections amidst industry buzz. Kenny also draws on his diverse experience, including managing Natural/Organic/Specialty Foods at Foodland Hawaii, and provides insights into managing categories like bulk foods and addressing supply chain logistics challenges. Learn about brand partnerships at Fresh Thyme, including innovative marketing campaigns integrated with social media influence and initiatives supporting regenerative agriculture. Tune in now! Listen in as Kenny shares about: Episode Links: Fresh Thyme Website Kenny’s 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast as she interviews JoLynn Henke and Peter Clarkson, the co-founders of Protéger. From personal experiences to a commitment to full-body skin health, discover how JoLynn's mother's ALS diagnosis fueled their passion for safeguarding the skin and loved ones. Explore Protéger's innovative dermal serum, a full-body product that caters to a wide variety of needs from hydrating pregnant bellies to preserving tattoos. Learn how they challenge traditional beauty norms by promoting inclusivity and authenticity in marketing, emphasizing the unisex nature of their products and clean ingredients without added fragrances. Protéger's journey has not been without challenges. Hear how Protéger tackled damaged inventory issues with "rescue bottles," sold at a discount for charity, showcasing their resilience and creativity in problem-solving while benefiting animal rescue organizations. Discover how Protéger's emphasis on personal connections with retailers facilitated their expansion into retail locations such as Figgy Co. Through storytelling and community engagement, they strive to redefine beauty standards, prioritizing skin health over traditional gender-specific norms. Ready to redefine your skincare routine? Tune in now! Listen in as they share about: Episode Links: Protéger Website JoLynn Henke’s LinkedIn Peter Clarkson’s 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call) Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of Startup CPG Podcast as he delves into the intricacies of consumer research methodologies with Sara Schor, principal of Schor Insights & Strategy, a specialized boutique agency focused on consumer insights and brand strategy. From qualitative to quantitative approaches, they explore the art of crafting effective discussion guides and surveys to extract actionable insights. Sara shares riveting anecdotes, showcasing the profound impact of small yet powerful insights. Discover how understanding consumer behavior drives strategic brand development. Learn from Sara’s flexible collaboration approach, tailored to diverse budget constraints, and her unwavering focus on meaningful outcomes over rigid structures. Don’t miss this invaluable tips on leveraging qualitative research techniques to reshape brand identities and unlock growth opportunities. Tune in now! Listen in as Sara shares about: Episode Links: Schor Insights & Strategy’s Website Sara’s LinkedIn Sara’s Email: sara@schorinsights.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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics Cin7 Links: cin7.com/startupcpgHummingbirds Links: Hummingbirds.com/startupCPGGrassroots Links: https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call) Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast as she delves into the flavorful world of House of Kajaana, a pioneering plant-based Indian food brand owned by Sabah Ashraf. Sabah unravels the remarkable transition from investment banking to culinary entrepreneurship, and discover how House of Kajana is redefining frozen meals, prioritizing taste and inclusivity by crafting gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free dishes like roasted cauliflower tikka masala and coconut Malabar curry. Explore their strategic approach to product selection, rooted in building strong consumer connections through familiar flavor profiles. Delve into their expansion strategies, including partnerships with renowned retailers like Fresh Direct and an upcoming launch in Whole Foods stores nationwide. Gain insights into House of Kajana's commitment to engaging consumers through in-store demos and digital platforms like Instagram and Aisle. Learn about their vision for the future, centered on providing convenient access to healthier meal options across the country. Tune in to this mouthwatering conversation and join the plant-based revolution with House of Kajana! Listen in as Sabah shares about: Episode Links: House of Kajaana’s Website Saba’s 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics Cin7 Links: cin7.com/startupcpgHummingbirds Links: Hummingbirds.com/startupCPGGrassroots Links: https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call) In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Christine McNerney, Vice President of Merchandising Ops for Health, Beauty, and Home Categories at Thrive Market, and Jason Bidart VP of Food Merchandising at Thrive Market. They explore Thrive Market's commitment to offering wholesome products and maintaining strict ingredient standards. From Christine's journey in fashion e-commerce to Jason's extensive grocery retail experience, discover how their expertise shapes Thrive Market's offerings. Hear about how they work with brands, and top-selling products like electrolyte powders and wellness items. Dive into product highlights and marketing programs that drive Thrive Market's success, and gain insights into their collaborative approach with merchandising teams. Tune in now to discover a healthier way of living with Thrive Market! Listen in as Christine and Jason share about: Episode Links: Thrive Market’s Website Christine LinkedIn Jason 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics Cin7 Links: cin7.com/startupcpgHummingbirds Links: Hummingbirds.com/startupCPGGrassroots Links: https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call) Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast as she is joined by Jake Deleon, the founder and CEO of Fila Manila and Alex Sorenson, the Founder and CEO of Blank Slate Kitchen to delve into the complexities of UPC (Universal Product Code) code management. Discover the pivotal decisions behind altering UPC codes, influenced by factors such as pricing strategy, market competitiveness, and cost efficiency. Hear firsthand accounts of how Jake and Alex approached UPC modifications to meet distribution demands and navigate retailer approvals. From adjusting net weight to strategic inventory planning, learn the intricacies of UPC management and the importance of sales forecasting in ensuring smooth transitions. Gain invaluable advice from founders on starting small to gather consumer feedback, assessing velocity metrics for store performance, and engaging effectively with distributors and retailers. Plus, explore how adapting product sizes can positively impact buyer behavior and discover proactive measures like promotions and discounts to manage UPC changes effectively. Don't miss out on the latest strategies for success in the CPG industry - Tune in now! Listen in as Jake and Alex share about: Episode Links: Blank Slate Kitchen Website Alex Sorenson’s LinkedIn Fila Manila Website Jake Deleon 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics Cin7 Links: cin7.com/startupcpgHummingbirds Links: Hummingbirds.com/startupCPGGrassroots Links: https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call) In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Mott Smith, co-founder of Amped Kitchens and a Startup CPG partner. Together, they delve into the benefits of utilizing commercial kitchens for small food businesses, emphasizing regulatory compliance, control, and flexibility in manufacturing. From product development challenges to staffing solutions, they explore various aspects of operating in a commercial kitchen, illuminating seamless transitions between spaces and the importance of community interactions. Drawing parallels between music production and food formulation, they discuss the significance of clear communication, feedback, and decision-making in the development process, while also addressing challenges like perfectionism. They also discussed the industry trends, touching on the potential decline of ghost kitchens and the rise of delivery-optimized food halls. Ready to take your food business to the next level? Tune in now! Listen in as Mott shares about: Episode Links: Amped Kitchens Website Mott Smith’s 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics Cin7 Links: cin7.com/startupcpgHummingbirds Links: Hummingbirds.com/startupCPGGrassroots Links: https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

Join Grace Kennedy as she delves into the world of healthy vegetarian delights with Aman Blana, the founder of Growee Foods, in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast. Aman shares the journey behind Growee Foods, inspired by his Indian heritage and a quest for fresh, plant-based options in the US. From battling the challenges of working with co-packers to navigating distribution channels, Aman reveals how mentor communities like Startup CPG have been pivotal in guiding his path. Discover Aman's innovative marketing strategies, including engaging farmers market demos and strategic brand collaborations. Learn how Growee Foods leverages email marketing and region-focused ads to drive sales growth on a bootstrap budget, all while prioritizing quality and taste above everything else. What’s more, get a sneak peek into upcoming spicy flavors and product lines that will leave you salivating. Tune in now and embark on a flavorful adventure with Growee Foods! Listen in as Aman shares about: Episode Links: Growee Foods Website Aman Blana’s 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to www.hummingbirds.com This episode was sponsored by Simply Depo. Go to www.simplydepo.com In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, join Daniel Scharff as he dives into the world of foodservice with Lizz Ingrassia and Allie Cotter of Fresh Time Market. Delving into their journey from restaurant dining to packaged retail meals, Liz and Allie share their expertise on the importance of flavor, customer-centricity, and understanding consumer needs in product selection. With foodservice comprising a significant portion of store sales, they discuss the role of branded and non branded items and much more. Discover the challenges and triumphs of launching new products smoothly, working with suppliers, distribution strategies, and balancing labor issues with innovation. Learn valuable collaboration tips, including understanding store operations and delivering proposals aligned with customer expectations. Tune in to gain actionable strategies for enhancing brand credibility, fostering successful partnerships, and creating memorable experiences for consumers! Listen in as Lizz and Allie share about: Thanks to our episode sponsor, SimplyDepo (simplydepo.com). SimplyDepo is a super sales and merchandising platform designed to help emerging brands win independent stores. Powered by the technology, they help you find potential customers, digitize all ordering and merchandising activities, and get all the store insights you need to scale your business. Get in touch at info@simplydepo.com or visit simplydepo.com and make sure to mention hearing this message on the Startup CPG Podcast Episode Links: Fresh Thyme Website Allie’s LinkedIn Lizz’s 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. 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Episode music by Super Fantastics Hummingbirds Link: hummingbirds.com/startupCPG Simply Depo Link: info@simplydepo.comsimplydepo.com

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to www.hummingbirds.com Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast together with Cory Hebert from Cin7 and Jamie Valenti-Jordan, CEO of Catapult Commercialization Services, as they illuminate the challenges faced by startups during product launches and emphasize the importance of accurate data entry to prevent financial losses and share invaluable insights on leveraging Inventory Management Systems (IMS) to streamline processes efficiently. Discover practical strategies for reconciling orders with available inventory, optimizing payment terms, and managing cash flow challenges. Learn from real-world experiences and gain actionable advice on implementing efficient inventory management systems like Cin7 Core. Cin7 is the market leader in Inventory Management for emerging brands. We have a Startup CPG EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT! 50% off the first 3 months of Cin7! To register for a demo or start your free trial: http://www.cin7.com/startupcpg Don't miss out on this episode packed with expert advice and industry insights! Tune in now and take your inventory management to the next level! Listen in as Cory and Jamie share about: get.cin7.com Inventory Management Software | Cin7 Cin7 is trusted by thousands of businesses to get their products to more customers, in more places, faster than ever before. Try our inventory management software today. Episode Links: Website: Cin7 LinkedIn: Cory H. Website: Catapult Commercialization Services LinkedIn: Jamie Valenti-Jordan 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics Simply Depo Link: info@simplydepo.comsimplydepo.com

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, originally recorded as a webinar, join Daniel Scharff together with Jonny Price and James Reina as they talk through community fundraising and crowdsourcing with Jonny from Wefunder and James Reina from Jibby Coffee who recently completed a raise. Discover why community rounds matter, how to handle financial disclosures, and the smart way to tailor your fundraising approach. James shares real-world insights from a winning campaign, stressing the importance of doing your homework, building relationships, and engaging your audience effectively. Learn how personalized messages can sway investors and why educating your audience is key to long-term success. Plus, find out how crowdfunding can be a game-changer for underrepresented founders and new investors alike. They'll also demystify Wefunder's fees, advertising tactics, and how to maximize your exposure as you hit funding milestones. Ready to embark on a crowdfunding journey? Tune in now! Startup CPG Community Members get a discount on Wefunder fees by using this link: http://wefunder.com/startupCPG/raise Listen in as James and Jonny share about: wefunder.com Let your community invest | Wefunder, Home of the Community Round Raise $50K to $5M+ from hundreds of customers, fans, and friends—all in one line on your cap table. Episode Links: Wefunder’s Website James’s LinkedIn Jonny’s 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Rich Gillmore, the VP of Center Store at Gelson's. Together, they delve into the dynamic world of indie retail in Southern California and explore how Gelson's stands out as a trendsetter by curating innovative brands that embody the quintessential Californian lifestyle. Rich shares valuable insights on prioritizing high-quality products, navigating the influx of brand invitations, and the delicate balance between data-driven analytics and instinctive choices for successful product launches. Learn about the importance of brand visibility and collaboration, and how platforms like LinkedIn play a crucial role in fostering connections and promoting innovation. Whether you're an emerging brand looking to partner with Gelson's or a retail enthusiast keen on understanding the intricacies of the industry, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights. Tune in now! Listen in as Rich shares about: Episode Links: Gelson’s Website Rich’s 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, join Grace Kennedy together with Lauryn Bodden, the founder of S’noods as they delve into the captivating origin story of S’noods, the innovative noodle chips taking the snack world by storm. Lauryn shares her journey from winning a Netflix cooking competition to launching her brand, securing partnerships with major retailers, and winning a coveted booth at Expo West 2025. Gain valuable insights about finding the right partners and overcoming obstacles in the competitive CPG industry as Lauryn navigated the challenges of product development, distribution, and fundraising as a solo founder. She also dives into the importance of community, feedback, and perseverance in building a successful brand. Tune in now! Listen in as Lauryn shares about: Episode Links: S’noods Website Lauryn’s Instagram 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: hereStartup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, join Daniel Scharff together with Eric Wu and Adam Yee, the founders of Sobo Foods, as they share their journey of creating plant-based Asian American frozen dumplings. Explore Adam and Eric’s approach, rooted in years of entrepreneurship experience, critical industry connections, and strategic branding to position their products as nutrient-dense comfort foods appealing to a wide consumer base. Delve into the evolving diet choices in the US, with Asian Americans leading trends in veganism and vegetarianism, and how Sobo Foods emphasizes a balanced approach to meat consumption, drawing from cultural differences. Additionally, discover their plans for expansion through local retail partnerships in the Bay Area, focusing on community support and navigating logistical challenges. Learn about their commitment to sustainability, utilizing plant-based ingredients and eco-friendly packaging materials throughout their supply chain. Adam and Eric also share valuable insights on effective product development and scaling production processes, emphasizing the importance of thorough vetting of product developers and staying well-capitalized regardless of funding challenges. Tune in now! Listen in as Eric and Adam share about: Episode Links: Sobo Foods Website Eric’s LinkedIn Adam’s 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Vanessa White, CEO of Jaju Pierogi. Together, they trace the remarkable journey of Jaju Pierogi, from crafting handcrafted delicacies to securing shelf space in 2000 stores nationwide. Vanessa shares insights into the challenges of competing with established brands while maintaining authenticity and unveils their ingenious marketing approach focused on engaging content and community connection. Learn about navigating distribution partnerships, from regional distributors to national giants like UNFI and KeHE, and discover Jaju Pierogi's commitment to supporting women in education through the Polish American Women's Scholarship program. From influencer collaborations to strategic social media strategies and distribution partnerships, Vanessa offers valuable lessons for navigating the competitive CPG landscape. Hungry for more insights? Tune in now! Listen in as Vanessa shares about: The Secret Sauce for Going Viral of Vanesa's Pierogi Videos Competition and Market Positioning Origin Story of Jaju Pierogi Social Media and Branding Product Demos and Customer Associations Retailer Relationships and Product Placement Transition from Handmade to Manufacturing The Importance of Personal Branding and Business Identity Dealing with online haters and trolls Balancing authenticity with marketing goals Episode Links: Website Jaju Pierogi Vanessa’s 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) Startup CPG@startupcpgLinkedin Super Fantastics