Taste Radio

If you want to get the attention of Boulder Food Group (BFG), a venture capital firm that recently launched a new $100 million fund, having a memorable package design is a good way to start. Launched in 2014 by industry veterans Tom Spier and Dayton Miller, BFG has made early-stage investments in several innovative and socially conscious food and beverage brands, including Chameleon Cold-Brew, Caulipower, Birch Benders and MALK. In an interview included in this episode of Taste Radio, Spier explained why visual appeal is a key factor in BFG’s investment criteria and paramount to the success of young brands. “If you can deliver the right visual representation -- and then also the taste and the price -- you can steal a disproportionate amount of category share with that combination,” Spier said. “But if you’re lacking the visual appeal, that gets to be a lot more difficult. So we really do try to identify brands that really are beautiful, unique, memorable -- brands that are going to get a consumer to stop in a store, take a look, pick it up and, hopefully, buy it.” Also in our interview, Spier and Miller discussed their backgrounds in food and beverage, how BFG curates its portfolio and what they view as the value-added nature of the firm. They also spoke about why BFG likes “to scale into [its] investments” and shared their perspective on innovative concepts and what brands need to bring to the table in an investor meeting. Show notes: 1:40: Post-Show, Now Is The Time for More Expo-sure -- The hosts reflected on Expo West 2019, and discussed the importance of brands to maintain momentum from the show, particularly if they launched new products at the event. Also: Mike re-enacted a spicy adventure and spoke about a couple new cascara products featured at Expo West. 10:03: Interview: Tom Spier & Dayton Miller, Managing Partners, Boulder Food Group --- As part of our interview, recorded at Expo West 2019, Spier and Miller spoke about Boulder Food Group’s investment philosophy and how it evaluates and identifies synergies with entrepreneurial brands. They also discussed the environment for food and beverage investment and how it has evolved in recent years, and the data that can make or break an investor pitch. Brands in this episode: Fire Cider, Fermenting Fairy, Riff Cold Brewed, Up to Good, Chameleon Cold-Brew, Olipop, MALK, CAULIPOWER, 4th and Heart, Birch Benders

Show of hands — if you sold your company for $286 million, would you go back to work for the new owner? We’re guessing there’s not many arms raised. For Justin Gold, however, leaving the company he founded in 2004 after it was acquired by Hormel Foods in 2016 was never an option. Justin’s, a pioneering brand of better-for-you nut butters and snacks, is not just his namesake — it’s his legacy and one that continues to grow. “The brand stands for something,” he said in an interview included in this episode. “It has values. It has personality. It has charisma. But those values all hinge on me. And if I’m there, it really drives the connection back to the consumer, back to the retailer, back to the broker, back to the person -- and that’s really important. It gives the brand a life outside of just a product.” In our interview, Gold spoke about his decision to stay with Justin’s after the Hormel acquisition. He also discussed the brand’s evolution and how a new take on a familiar snack and a key hire were game-changers for Justin’s. Gold also explained his belief that making a lot of money and having a mission to change the world are not mutually exclusive. Show notes: 2:34: Interview: Justin Gold, Founder, Justin’s --  In our interview, recorded at Natural Products Expo West 2019, Gold spoke about his current role with the company following its acquisition by Hormel Foods, and his why he’s “still the heart of the organization.” He also explained his perspective that Justin’s was a “10-year overnight success,” the decision to align with Hormel, and what he views as the keys to innovation and improving the food system. Gold also discussed the growth of the brand following the hire of Peter Burns as CEO and what he learned from the longtime industry executive, and finally, how he hopes consumers perceive Justin’s. Brands in this episode: Justin’s, Reese’s, Hormel Foods

Just three and a half months since its debut, Recess, a sparkling water brand infused with CBD and adaptogens, has generated an incredible amount of buzz. Profiled in mainstream media outlets, including The New York Times, Forbes and CNBC, Recess has been dubbed the “LaCroix of CBD” and within days of its launch the products were backordered for weeks. So what’s behind the hype? In an interview included in this episode, Recess founder/CEO Benjamin Witte spoke about the brand’s creation and how he set it up for a fast start. He also discussed the company’s long-term mission, why Recess is marketing a solution rather than an ingredient, and why he believes the best way to succeed as a beverage company is not to think like one. Show notes: 1:36: A Sea of CBD (and Investors) at Expo West -- On location in Anaheim for Natural Products Expo West 2019, the hosts discussed a significant shift in how entrepreneurs and investors interact at the annual trade show. They also spoke about new CBD products exhibited at the annual trade show and confusion about how the ingredient is promoted. They also riff on a few notable food and beverage brands featured on day one of Expo West. 21:44: Interview: Benjamin Witte, Founder/CEO, Recess --  In an interview recorded Recess’s office in New York City, Witte spoke about his relationship with CBD and how it got him into the beverage business. He also discussed why he views Recess as a “recreational wellness brand” and plans to expand with digital and physical versions. He also explained why he believes that today, “brands are built on your phone,” how Recess “designs feelings” and the lessons from the brand’ pop-up show in Manhattan. Brands in this episode: Recess, Wilde Brands, Revive Kombucha, Brew Dr. Kombucha, Rowdy Mermaid, Olipop, Wonder Drink, Humm Kombucha, Hella Cocktail Co., The Maple Guild, Sunwink, Waku, Goldthread, Fatworks, Q Soo, Sol Cuisine, Shrooms, Pan’s Mushroom Jerky, Kitu, Spudsy, Riff Cold Brewed, Red Bull, Monster Energy, Rockstar Energy

When it launched in 2013, Boxed, an online retailer of bulk goods, had all the hallmarks of a tech startup. Audacious idea? Check. Parents’ garage as the company office? Check. Low probability of success? Check. Unlike many startups, however, Boxed has thrived since its debut. The company, dubbed the “Costco for millennials,” reached $100 million in sales in 2016 and has attracted interest from a variety of investors, who’ve injected over $243 million into the business. Last year Kroger reportedly made an offer to buy Boxed for a half-billion dollars. So how has Boxed, which is less than six years old, achieved this position? We recently sat down with the company’s co-founder and CEO Chieh Huang to get the answers. In our conversation, he spoke about his background and why the acquisitions of Whole Foods and Jet.com were critical to the development of the company. He also discussed the evolution of mobile commerce, the importance of user experience and customer service, and how Boxed curates its product assortment and utilizes consumer data. And in one of the most notable moments of our conversation, Huang explained why he believes the future of online food shopping “will feel like Netflix.” Show notes: 2:42: Interview: Chieh Huang, Co-Founder/CEO, Boxed -- In an interview recorded at Boxed headquarters in New York City, Huang discussed the company’s origins and why its current office may look familiar to those in the tech community. He also explained why bulk retailing makes sense from an economic standpoint, why Boxed only carries 1,600 items, and the consumer- business-driven reasons behind the growth of online shopping. Huang also spoke about his unorthodox interviewing process, why he doesn’t view co-workers as “family,” and how he defines success. Brands in this episode: Smartwater

Over the course of his career, Ryan Lewendon, a partner with influential CPG law firm The Giannuzzi Group, has worked with hundreds of CPG brands, including Vitaminwater, Krave Jerky, Vita Coco and BodyArmor. His experience has provided him with a window into how successful entrepreneurs think and operate. In an interview included in this episode, Lewendon offered his perspective on the elements of a winning brand and what it takes to succeed. As part of our conversation, he discussed how to avoid some of the early mistakes that can haunt entrepreneurs down the line and the keys to effective networking, plus tips on considering the valuation of your company and working with celebrities. He also shared why he believes next year may be the wrong time to launch a food or beverage company. Also in this episode: BevNET’s Martín Caballero and Brad Avery take us inside the latest issue of BevNET Magazine, which includes feature stories on the coffee category, flavors and functional ingredients and the spirits industry. Show notes: 1:44: From NYC to Cabo to Expo West: The hosts chat about Ray’s recent visit to NYC, where he recorded several podcast interviews, including with Fever-Tree North America CEO Charles Gibb and Boxed co-founder/CEO Chieh Huang and made a visit to Recess IRL, an experiential pop-up shop launched by the CBD-infused sparkling water brand. Later on, John Craven spoke about his visit to BevNET’s San Diego office and meeting with a couple hard kombucha entrepreneurs. The hosts also encouraged attendees of the upcoming Natural Products Expo West 2019 to follow @bevnet, @noshdotcom and @bevnettasteradio for pics of new products and brands featured at the event. 15:09: Interview: Ryan Lewendon, Partner, The Giannuzzi Group -- Lewendon has been with the firm since its inception in 2010, and has helped hundreds of companies navigate growth at every stage of their development, and advised entrepreneurs from initial launch through to a multi-million dollar exit. In a wide-ranging interview recorded at The Giannuzzi Group office in Manhattan, Lewendon discussed his background in the food and beverage industry and why the firm’s “business model is to get fired every year.” He also offered his perspective on why networking is all about building relationships, the dangers of treating equity “as too much of a currency,” why there’s no magic formula for valuations of small companies, how to approach celebrities about getting involved with your brand and why he thinks that if you’re thinking about starting a food or beverage company, you should not wait till 2020. 43:11: Inside The Latest Issue of BevNET Magazine -- Published last week, the January/February 2019 issue of BevNET Magazine includes articles penned by BevNET’s Martín Caballero and Brad Avery, who shared insights and additional analysis about the content. Brands in this episode: Recess, Fever-Tree, Junshine, Novo Brazil, Boochcraft, Luna Bay Kombucha, RightRice, Banza, BodyArmor, Calidad Beer, Alfred Coffee & Tea, Once Upon a Farm, Foodstirs

Fever-Tree North America CEO Charles Gibb describes himself as “globally mobile,” and, based on his resume, that’s an apt description. Although he’s lived and worked in New York for nearly a decade, his career in the spirits industry has included executive-level roles based in cities across Europe and Australia. In an interview included in this episode, Gibb said that the experience has helped shape his leadership of Fever-Tree North America, the U.S.-based subsidiary of the super-premium mixer brand. “When you live in a country, you really understand what drives [and] motivates the people,” he said. “You appreciate the cultural diversity, the differences, and you get newfound respect for people and the way they live their lives.” As part of our wide-ranging interview, Gibb spoke about his work in the spirits business leading up to Fever-Tree, including a high-profile role as the President and CEO of Belvedere Vodka. He also discussed how his experience in British Army taught him about the importance of communication and humor, spoke about the evolution of the global market for spirits and mixers and why he believes that Fever-Tree can be a brand for all consumers. Show notes: 2:43: Charles Gibb, CEO, Fever-Tree North America -- Gibb helms Fever-Tree’s American outpost, which opened its doors in 2018 and has rapidly paid dividends for the company. According to Fever-Tree, U.S. sales grew by 21 percent year-over-year since the new office opened. In this interview, Gibb discussed the development and growth of the subsidiary and the opportunity for premium mixers in the U.S. He also spoke about how his prior experience in the spirits business prepared him for the role and recalls how his experience as an officer in the British Army and perspective from living in cities around the world have molded his leadership style. Sidenote: Gibb explained what a “prat” is and why you wouldn’t want to be described as one. Brands in this episode: Fever-Tree, Belvedere Vodka, Hennessy

In this episode, we explored the evolving landscape for plant-based foods through conversations with Ben Mand, the CEO of coconut beverage brand Harmless Harvest and Michele Simon, the founder and executive director of industry trade group the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA). Mand, who joined Harmless Harvest last year, spoke about the company’s recent revamp of its dairy-free, coconut-based yogurt drink and how lessons from its initial launch have shaped the company’s innovation strategy. He also discussed how Harmless Harvest is exploring opportunities to extend its brand platform while maintaining the integrity of its flagship product. Later in the show, Simon, who launched the PBFA in 2016, spoke about a shift in how consumers perceive plant-based foods and how brands are responding. She also addressed the growing debate about the proper use of the words “meat” and “milk” and why she believes that lobbyists advocating on behalf of animal-based meat and dairy industries are fighting a losing battle. Show notes: 1:43: The Ill Subliminal — The hosts discussed Rowdy Mermaid Kombucha’s recent $3.5 million funding round, Landis’ unfortunate illness, GT’s Living Foods’ line of adaptogenic beverages and a visit from cannabis innovator Adam Terry. 11:42: Interview: Ben Mand, CEO, Harmless Harvest -- A veteran CPG executive, Mand took the reins of a company that has faced a few challenges to its business in recent years, most notably in the use of its former processing method, HPP. Nevertheless, the Harmless Harvest brand has maintained a loyal following, particularly among consumers in the natural channel. ow the coconut water category has evolved in recent years and the most pressing challenges facing companies in the space. 27:35: Interview: Michele Simon, Executive Director, Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA) -- Since launching the PBFA, Simon and her team have lobbied for companies innovating with plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy products. NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg caught up with Michele at the 2019 Winter Fancy Food Show for a conversation about the development of the trade group and work on behalf of its member companies. Brands in this episode: Rowdy Mermaid Kombucha, Spindrift, KeVita, Iconic Protein, Koia, LifeAid, Zola, Piknik, GT’s Living Foods, Harmless Harvest, Plum Organics, FRS, Beyond Meat

Three decades ago, Marygrace Sexton launched Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Co. with an ambitious goal: give consumers across the country access to high-quality, fresh-squeezed juice. While the dream was big, Sexton launched the company in a production facility about the size of a one-bedroom apartment and the first bottles were shipped in a delivery truck borrowed from a local meat company. Natalie’s, named after Sexton’s first daughter, has since grown by leaps and bounds in the years since. Its juices are sold in over 30 states and 40 countries and annual revenue reached $63 million in 2018. The company is family-owned and operated, and Sexton says that its commitment to quality and customer service have remained the same since day one. In the following interview, she spoke about the brand’s origins and the two rules that govern its business strategy. Sexton also explained why she’s determined to change her leadership style, discussed the company’s succession plan and how she’s preparing her daughter to take the reins. Show notes: 1:41: Marygrace Sexton, Founder/CEO, Natalie's Orchid Island Juice Co. -- In an interview recorded via weblink, Sexton explained how seeing her mother live in poverty motivated her to succeed as an entrepreneur. She also discussed navigating challenges within the competitive juice category and how the company overcame a costly recall. Sexton also spoke about why it’s difficult to change her management style, the business advice she gives to her daughter and likely successor and the reason she launched A-GAP, a non-profit that encourages time off from technology. Brands in this episode: Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Co.

Blue Bottle Coffee CEO Bryan Meehan is well aware of the increasingly competitive landscape for coffee. Yet while some companies are racing to expand and innovate, Blue Bottle, one of the most admired coffee roasters and retailers in the world, is taking a patient and restrained approach. “Our way is not the right way if we want to be the most commercially successful company in the country. Meehan said in an interview included in this episode. “There are companies ahead of us that are doing more innovation. But I think our way is the right way if we think about the long-term value of the brand and what taste we deliver to our customers.” That perspective is embraced by Blue Bottle’s majority owner, Nestlé, which in September 2017 paid approximately $500 million for a 68 percent stake in the company. Meehan remarked that Nestlé views Blue Bottle as “doing something very unique and should not be touched.” “Throughout the whole culture of Nestlé, there’s support to just (let) Blue Bottle be,” he said. As part of our conversation, we spoke with Meehan about how Blue Bottle’s new line of whole bean coffee in pressure-sealed cans fits into its purposeful innovation strategy. He also discussed the evolution of Blue Bottle’s cafe and beverage business and the company’s efforts to enhance consumers’ experience with coffee and his perspective on the future of packaged coffee drinks and the industry as a whole. Also in this episode: an interview with former N’Sync star Lance Bass who recently introduced a line of cocktail mixers called Just Add X. Bass spoke about the launch and development of the new brand and how his experience in the CPG business compares to that of his music career. Show notes: 1:39: Cannabis, Canned Cocktails & Freeze-Dried Ice Cream -- Mike spoke about his visit to the Seed to Sale cannabis conference held this week in Boston and what it was like to interview Lance Bass. Later, the hosts imbibed on canned cocktails and tea-infused beer, munched on freeze-dried iced cream and remarked a recent visit to the office by Dan & Genevieve Brazelton, the founders of cocktail mixer company Improper Goods. They also discussed the construction of a new studio for our new weekly video show, Taste Radio Now. 15:23: Interview: Bryan Meehan, CEO, Blue Bottle Coffee -- Since he Meehan took the helm of Blue Bottle in 2012, Meehan has overseen three major funding rounds and executed a significant expansion of the company’s cafe business and its foray into ready-to-drink beverages. He also guided Blue Bottle through Nestle’s acquisition of a majority stake in the company. In an interview recorded at Blue Bottle’s booth at the 2019 Winter Fancy Food Show, he discussed the recent launch of its innovative cans of coffee beans and expansion of its cafe business. He also explained why Nestle views Blue Bottle as “precious” and why “over time (it) can be a company for everybody.” 30:55: Interview: Lance Bass, Founder, Just Add X --  If you grew up in the late 1990’s or early 2000’s you’re probably familiar with Lance Bass, best known from the wildly popular boy band N’Sync. Since hanging up his headset mic and dancing shoes, Lance has begun a new career as a beverage entrepreneur with the launch of cocktail mixer line Just Add X.  At the 2019 Winter Fancy Food Show, Lance sat down with Mike Schneider and NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg for a conversation about the launch and development of Just Add X and how his experience in the CPG business compares to that of his music career. Brands in this episode: MedMen, Cocktail Squad, Shipyard Brewing Co., Tiesta Tea, Owl’s Brew, Cosmik Ice Cream, RAFT, The Bitter Housewife, Smashmallow, Blue Bottle Coffee, Intelligentsia Coffee, Stumptown, Just Add X, Chef’d

We live in a time when we don't have to make a trade-off between healthy and delicious food, but we used to. Pete Lescoe was one of a handful of pioneers who paved a path for better-for-you and tasty snacks with Food Should Taste Good, which he launched in 2006. The brand’s line of tortilla chips, made with healthy ingredients like flaxseed and quinoa, was an instant hit with retailers and consumers, and just six years after its market debut Food Should Taste Good was acquired by General Mills. Five years later after the sale, Lescoe was back at it with Plant Snacks, an innovative brand of healthy chips made from cassava flour. In the following interview, Lescoe chronicled his journey as an entrepreneur, including how he created a foundation for success with Food Should Taste Good, discussed his perspective on risk and explained why cash will always be king. He also spoke about the eventual sale of the company, why he got back in the food business and why he doesn’t think about happiness as a goal. Show notes: 2:38: Interview: Pete Lescoe, Founder, Food Should Taste Good/Plant Snacks -- In a conversation recorded at his office in Greenwich, Conn., Lescoe recounted his early days in business beginning with a business development role at small chain of flower stores through to his MBA education at Babson College and work with a food broker. He also discussed why having an income while launching Food Should Taste Good was so important in the first year, how he negotiated contracts with co-packers and retailers in such a way that cash was always available, why imitating success helped scale the brand, and the decision to take on equity capital. He also talked about life after the sale of Food Should Taste Good, why he saw an opportunity to lead the emerging cassava snack space with Plant Snacks, and the role of happiness in his life. Brands in this episode: Food Should Taste Good, Plant Snacks