In this episode of The Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy welcomes Nikki Seaman, founder and CEO of Freestyle Snacks, to discuss the journey behind reimagining olives as a premium, convenient snack. Nikki shares her inspiration for launching Freestyle Snacks during the pandemic, identifying a gap in the market for fresh, flavorful olives packaged for modern, on-the-go lifestyles.From early product development to navigating over 200 co-packer rejections, Nikki provides a behind-the-scenes look at building a CPG brand from the ground up. Discover how her data-driven approach, innovative packaging, and strategic focus on diverse channels like grocery, hospitality, and even Delta Air Lines snack boxes have contributed to the brand’s success.If you’re curious about the intricacies of product design, scaling into retail, and creating a snack that stands out in a crowded market, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Listen in as they share about:Introduction to Freestyle SnacksChallenges in Early DevelopmentProduct DevelopmentGo-to-Market StrategyUnique Brand PositioningExpansion and Key ChannelsTrends and Market FitEpisode Links:Website: https://www.freestylesnacking.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-seaman/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff and Lance Schwarzkopf take us behind the scenes of launching a food or beverage product. They break down the complexities of working with contract manufacturers, or "co-mans," to transform a concept into a market-ready product. Daniel and Lance share essential steps for emerging brands, from developing and protecting proprietary formulas to sourcing quality ingredients and securing critical documentation, like a process authority letter.They provide practical advice on finding a co-man - from the pre-work and product development that happens prior, to finding out the options, to outreach strategy, building effective co-man relationships, managing ingredient and packaging orders, and setting up agreements to ensure smooth production flow. Emphasizing the importance of communication, strategic planning, and proactive relationship management, Daniel and Lance offer valuable insights into overcoming production challenges and avoiding common industry pitfalls.Tune in to learn how to streamline your path to a successful launch! If you're ready to take your product from concept to market, don’t miss this episode and be sure to subscribe for more expert advice!Check out their co-man list via their website copack.netTo inquire about their discounted search for Startup CPG community brands, email lance@copack.net and mention the Startup CPG rate!Listen in as they share about:Preparation Before Approaching Co-ManufacturersSourcing Industrial IngredientsThe Role of a Product Specification DocumentProcess Authority and Shelf Life StudiesFinding and Engaging a Co-ManufacturerConsiderations for Hiring a Co-Man Search PartnerChallenges in Co-Man CommunicationInitial Steps and PlanningContracts and AgreementsImportance of QA and BenchmarksProduction Day and Quality ControlWarehousing and DistributionResources and Support for BrandsEpisode Links:Website: http://copack.net/ Email: lance@copack.net LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanceschwarzkopf/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Val Emanuel, co-founder of Rif Care, brings her diverse experience from modeling and Goop to the conversation. She shares her journey in creating eco-friendly feminine care products, navigating market gaps, and the challenges of scaling a sustainable brand. Val highlights the importance of social media and influencer partnerships for growth and candidly discusses the unique obstacles faced as a female founder of color. With ambitious plans for 2025, including surpassing $1 million in sales, she offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Patricia Menegoto, Head of Marketing and Community at Startup CPG, shares insights on a transformative year for the community. They reflect on the success of in-person networking events and impactful partnerships, including the GNC 'Next Big Thing' initiative. The pair discuss empowering female founders, brand matching successes, and their growing Shelfie Awards. Looking ahead to 2025, they reveal ambitious plans to strengthen connections among entrepreneurs and retailers, ensuring visibility for emerging brands in the competitive market.

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:Product Details of Gay WaterBrand Inspiration, Mission, Development and ImpactChallenges and LearningsMarketing StrategiesSales and DistributionGrowth and ExpansionFuture PlansEpisode Links:Gay Water’s WebsiteGay Water’s InstagramDon't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

David Fudge, co-founder and CEO of Aplós, shares his journey in creating a premium non-alcoholic spirits brand. He dives into innovative branding and marketing strategies that challenge traditional alcohol norms, appealing especially to health-conscious consumers. Fudge emphasizes the importance of e-commerce success, leveraging influencer partnerships and AI tools. He provides valuable lessons from his prior roles, underscoring the need for authenticity and resilience in the fast-evolving beverage market. Tune in for insightful takeaways for aspiring entrepreneurs!

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy sits down with Joseph Rotondo, founder & CEO of Smearcase, the innovative brand behind the world’s first frozen cottage cheese. Joseph recounts his journey from a post-workout craving to the creation of a protein-packed dessert that’s disrupting the traditional ice cream market.Joseph shares his insights into building a category-defining product, the strategic importance of branding, and the lessons learned while navigating the challenges of the consumer packaged goods industry. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at Smearcase’s rapid ascent, from local New York roots to its ambitious expansion plans for 2025, including new markets on the West Coast.Discover how Smearcase is paving the way for innovation in the dairy industry and redefining what healthy indulgence can look like.Don’t miss this deliciously inspiring episode—tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Origin and Concept of SmearcaseInspiration and CreationBranding and Market PositioningMarket Entry and GrowthChallenges and LessonsCustomer and Industry ResponseFuture GoalsEpisode Links:Website: https://eatsmearcase.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephrrotondo/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Heidi Traore, Supplier Relationship Development Manager at National Co+op Grocers, and Jeanette Bloss, their Category Manager, share fascinating insights into the co-op ecosystem. They discuss NCG’s role in empowering natural brands through centralized support and procurement. Topics range from the importance of data in category management to identifying trends like the growing interest in dumplings and plant-based alternatives. They also provide tips on effective brand outreach and fostering sustainable partnerships for long-term success.

Caroline Howard, co-founder of Walker Brothers Kombucha, shares her inspiring journey from home brewing to launching a successful kombucha brand. She discusses the creative branding process, the challenges of scaling production, and the strategic dual-pathway distribution for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Caroline emphasizes the importance of local partnerships and grassroots marketing while highlighting their innovative collaborations with brands like Rishi and Counter Culture Coffee. Tune in for insights on fundraising, community engagement, and expanding into new markets!

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by a distinguished panel of investors, including Greer Tessler (Founding Partner at Simple Food Ventures), Daniel Faierman (General Partner at Habitat Partners), Carolyn Simmons (Partner at Melitas Ventures), and Andrew Reynolds (Co-Founder & General Partner at RCV Frontline). Together, they provide an in-depth exploration of the current fundraising environment for CPG brands, discussing realistic valuations, funding strategies for pre-seed and seed stages, and the nuances of engaging with angel investors versus institutional funds.The panel offers expert insights on investor expectations, from gross margin benchmarks to profitability strategies and the critical role of founder resilience. They also examine key industry trends, including the growth of better-for-you products, protein-enriched innovations, and clean-label global cuisines, while highlighting how founders can effectively differentiate themselves through strategic pitches, trust-building, and leveraging professional networks.They conclude with rapid-fire pitches from emerging brands and real-time feedback from the panel, making it a valuable resource for founders and industry professionals. Don’t miss this deep dive into the minds of top CPG investors—tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Fundraising EnvironmentMetrics and MarginsTrends of InterestRaising FundsInvestment CriteriaInvestor ExpectationsPitching to VCsQ&A and Brand PitchesHow to Approach VCsEpisode Links:Greer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greer-tessler-50256640/ Daniel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-faierman/ Carolyn Simmons  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynsimmons/ Andrew Reynolds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/areynolds720/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics