Kate Greer is the co-founder of Cheerie Lane, an innovative popcorn brand that developed the first all-in-one ‘popcorn pod’. Growing up in the Midwest close to her family’s farm, a warm bowl of popcorn was always part of Kate’s family gatherings. Her expertise as a creative and an entrepreneur shows up in the innovative and artistic spirit of the brand.
Cheerie Lane is reimagining the way people enjoy popcorn with gourmet all-in-one ‘popcorn pods’. Thoughtfully crafted using heirloom kernels from a fifth-generation family farm in Iowa and cacao butter, each pod melts into a warm, evenly seasoned bowl of popcorn.
IG cheerielane | cheerielanepopcorn.com
The Goods Report Vol 5
Jordan & I are back this week chatting about the most exciting happenings in the food & beverage world! Here’s a sneak peak of our convo:
Design: Beak Brewery Beer books & Lil Bucks brand refresh
Strategy: “Your Dog Eats Better than You” & Ghia + Diaspora cookbooks
Food: Beans beans beans! & Algae CC x Nara Smith
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Founded in 2018 by Aishwarya Iyer, Brightland is a California-based premium pantry staples brand crafting artfully designed and consciously-made olive oils, vinegars, and honeys that elevate everyday moments.
what we chat about:
IG wearebrightland | brightland.co
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Neeshi is a women’s wellness brand using real food to ease hormonal symptoms from menstruation through menopause.
Founded by Gita Vellanki to help her daughter avoid the side effects of prescription meds, Neeshi offers delicious, functional products—like their Dark Cacao Spread—to support daily hormonal health naturally.
The brand’s mission is to help women feel empowered and unburdened by their cycles.
IG shopneeshi | neeshi.com
The Goods Report Vol 4:
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Krishna Kaliannan is the founder of Catalina Crunch, a better-for-you cereal and snack company he launched after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.
what we chat about:
IG catalinacrunch | us.catalinacrunch.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Dancing Elephant was founded by Saira Malhotra, an internationally trained chef and TV personality, and Chandni Prasad, an Ayurvedic wellness advocate with deep roots in public service and global policy.
Rooted in tradition but reimagined for today, Dancing Elephant brings this beloved Indian staple to the American market with a fresh, vibrant perspective.
what we chat about:
The roots of kitchari + why it’s such comforting meal in South Asian homes
How Dancing Elephant reimagined kitchari for today’s busy, wellness-conscious eaters without losing its soul
Saira & Chandni’s third-culture experience
IG dancingelephant_ayurveda | thedancingelephant.com
Find Me:
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citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
CPG News: Something & Nothing OOH campaign
Hear from Olly Dixon, co-founder of Something & Nothing, about their bold new out-of-home campaign in Chicago.
Something & Nothing, the premium soda brand inspired by travel, has debuted its first out-of-home campaign in the U.S. – “Not Pop.” – to challenge consumers to rethink what modern soda can be in a category commonly saturated by nostalgia, bright colors, and functional benefits.
IG wearesomethingandnothing | us.somethingandnothing.co
Shazia Bee of EnjoyThyFood
Growing up surrounded by talented chefs, Shazia learned early on that the best food is rooted in simplicity—fresh ingredients and a whole lot of love. Inspired by her childhood on the farm, she created EnjoyThyFood as a way to share nourishing snacks made with organic, plant-based ingredients.
what we chat about:
Shazia shares how she brings ancient food wisdom into everyday baking, making nutrient-rich cake mixes that fit today’s busy lifestyles
EnjoyThyFood proves desserts can be both delicious and wholesome, with gluten-free, paleo, and sugar-conscious ingredients
Feedback from consumers inspire new flavors, products, and ideas, keeping EnjoyThyFood evolving with its community
IG enjoythyfood_ | enjoythyfood.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Courtney McHugh is a seasoned senior executive with over a decade of experience in incubating, launching, and scaling venture-backed consumer product businesses.
amplifyeP24’s mission is to amplify the nutritional impact of food while contributing to a more sustainable future. Amplifye is a pioneering biotechnology company that applies computational enzyme discovery and the power of precision fermentation.
what we chat about:
Courtney explains how amplifyeP24 helps your body get more out of the protein you eat and why protein feels so “trendy” right now
Discover how precision fermentation is transforming everyday foods into more powerful, health-supporting meals
Amplifye’s approach not only supports personal health but also contributes to a more sustainable food system.
IG amplifye_me | amplifyeme.com
CPG News: 1-855-TURN-OFF to Celebrate AGZ Launch
Hear from Paulie Dery, CMO at AG1, about their newest hotline campaign to celebrate the launch of AGZ.
Called 1-855-TURN-OFF, AG1’s new hotline (1-855-TURN-OFF or 1855turnoff.com) flips the script on the infamous 1-900 numbers of the ’90s. Instead of turning callers on, AG1 dares them to stay awake as scientists lull them to sleep with pre-recorded scripts on the science behind AGZ.
IG drinkag1 | drinkag1.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Laoban Dumplings started as a humble dumpling shop in Washington, DC in 2017.
While living and teaching in China, co-founder Patrick Coyne frequently found himself in the dumpling shop near his school. He loved spending time in the shop—developing a special appreciation for the care and craftsmanship shown by the shop's boss or "laoban."
Once back stateside, Patrick sought to honor that tradition, and Laoban Dumplings was born.
what we chat about:
How Patrick took the concept from just an idea to a DC restaurant to a CPG line
The importance of bringing Chef Tim Ma onto the team
Expanding from dumplings to bao to the new crispy line
How to hold steady to the ethos of high quality ingredients when expanding
IG laobandumplings | laobandumplings.com
The Goods Report Vol 3:
Design: Bachan’s refresh
Strategy: the trend cycle of pistachios & “Dudeslop” (ManCereal & Dogfood)
Food: Carnation’s jalapeño milk ft. Tini (130M+ views) & cinnamon rolls having a moment (Spiral & Losers)
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Hear from Camilla Marcus, founder of west~bourne, about her newest collaboration with YUZUCO at the beginning of this week’s episode!
Lily Geiger is a born and bred New Yorker and the founder and CEO of Figlia, a modern, non-alcoholic aperitivo brand focusing on changing the conversation around alcohol consumption.
what we chat about:
How Lily’s family history of alcoholism influenced the creation of the brand
Figlia drawing on Italian aperitivo culture
The aperitivos don’t try to mimic alcohol, they stand on their own with complex, botanical flavors. What was the process like developing Figlia’s signature blends, and what experience did you want people to have when drinking them?
Next steps in an ever-evolving NA RTD space
IG drinkfiglia | drinkfiglia.com
IG camilla.marcus | westbourne.com | theyuzu.co
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Since their humble beginnings at the farmers markets of Austin, TX in 2009, GoodPop has become known for producing some of the cleanest, most innovative and most delicious frozen treats available on the market.
what we chat about:
what were the early days of Good Pop like and how did its grassroots beginning shape the company’s values and growth?
Scaling a brand with clean ingredients, organic sourcing, and no added sugar
The mission behind the Good Food Collective
How to navigate building a values-driven business while operating in the competitive world of CPG and large-scale retail
IG goodpop | goodpop.com | Good Food Collective
Jordan & I are back this week chatting about the most exciting happenings in the food & beverage world! Here’s a sneak peak of our convo:
Design: Cracker Barrel rebrand & Billie x Chia Pet
Strategy: YSL gifting influencers cherry pies & Blondery closing in public
Food: Vermouth spritz & She’s the Sauce protein-ification
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
Angel Margarita is co-founded by Academy Award-nominated actress, multi-platinum recording artist, and producer Hailee Steinfeld in partnership with Rodrigo Hernandez of Premium Beers Group, a leader within the alcohol industry in Mexico.
what we chat about:
Consumer taste evolving in the spirits and RTD space, particularly with tequila-based cocktails
Process for developing Angel Margarita’s initial flavors + how do you
approach product innovation as you look to expand the lineup?
How Rodrigo’s experience at Premium Beers Group influenced your approach to
launching and growing Angel Margarita
IG angelmargarita | angelmargarita.com
Plus, hear from Caryn Johnson of BOND and their recent launch of women’s hormonal health products into Whole Foods!
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
Emily Steele is the CEO and cofounder of Hummingbirds, a venture-backed platform that connects brands with hyperlocal content creators.
Hummingbirds is a first of its kind platform that connects cpg brands with hyperlocal creators to share their favorite products found in their backyard.
what we chat about:
The role creators have helping CPG brands move product, gain awareness, and drive trial/raving fans
Learning about consumer behavior through hyper-local marketing
Their approach to building a tech company that serves both brands & consumers
The inspiration behind Hummingbirds & the journey to bring it to it’s current form
IG hummingbirdshq | hummingbirds.com
Plus, a brand new, recurring segment with Jordan of Salad Sprinkles where we're talking all things CPG news + trends.
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
Ribbon was created to bring a sense of calm and softness to everyday routines—for the moms doing everything and the little ones learning everything. Made from premium, platinum-cured silicone, Ribbon’s thoughtfully designed tableware is non-toxic, unbreakable, and built to last through every meal, mess, and moment.
Founder-vetted and crafted in Korea, each piece is dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe, with a soft feel and clean aesthetic that fits beautifully into modern family life. Whether you're feeding a toddler or setting the table for yourself, Ribbon helps make mealtime a little simpler—and a little more serene.
what we chat about:
What inspired the use of non-toxic, premium silicone
How to strike a balance between being beautifully designed and deeply practical
Favorite ways to use Ribbon products (e.g. hosting, lunchtime, baking)
Go-to recipes
IG ribbonkitchen.co | ribbonkitchen.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
As co-founder and Chief Product Officer, Angela drives Little Spoon's insights-driven product innovation strategy. She started her career working in food-related television production, where she was involved in creative planning and execution. An avid chef and boutique fitness junkie, Angela is passionate about health, wellness, design and the future of food. Angela grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and received her BS in Marketing from St. Joseph’s University. She lives in New York City.
Little Spoon is on a mission to make parents' lives easier and kids healthier. Pioneering a new era of kids food, Little Spoon was built to meet the needs and standards of the modern parent by delivering uncompromising quality and time-saving convenience. From first bites to big kid years, Little Spoon’s rigorous ingredient sourcing, product testing, and format innovation take the stress away from fueling your kids without sacrificing peace of mind.
what we chat about:
Success of the brand via DTC only for first 7 years
Rigorous testing standards — first & only US baby food brand to meet EU standards & why this matters
Why parenting is thriving in DTC space
The brand’s mission of making parent's lives easier while respecting their full identities
What's next for Little Spoon (collabs, innovation, etc)
IG littlespoon | littlespoon.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
Aerflo is transforming the $40B+ sparkling water market with a first-of-its-kind, zero-waste carbonation system built for a more sustainable (and affordable) future.
Founded by John Thorp and Buzz Wiggins, Aerflo is a case study in circular design done right. Their flagship product, the Aer1 System, is a portable, PFAS- and BPA-free sparkling water maker powered by refillable capsule. With a seamless mail-back exchange program (via USPS), no single-use waste, and a price point that's lowered in the face of rising inflation and tariffs, Aerflo proves that sustainable design can be both accessible and scalable.
Backed by a fully automated, 5,000 sq. ft. capsule facility in New Jersey and proprietary, patent-protected tech, Aerflo isn’t just a product; it’s a new infrastructure for sparkling water consumption.
what we chat about:
building Aerflo’s circular refill system
how Aerflo thinks about scaling their impact as the brand grows
strategic partnership (e.g. Hydroflask) & how they fit into the vision for expanding the brand
favorite beverages to make with Aerflo
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
Spring & Mulberry, the original date-sweetened chocolate company, is dedicated to exploring a world of sweet beyond sugar.
On a travel pitstop in Dubai on her way to visit her husband's family in India, Kathryn discovered the pleasure and beauty of dates. Jammy, sweet, and bursting with flavor, it was there that she witnessed how dates were savored, not merely consigned to the bulk bins of American grocery stores.
A few years later, Kathryn received a cancer diagnosis. In her recovery, she decided to quit refined sugar. While searching for new ways to satisfy her sweet tooth, she began experimenting with dates, fruits, nuts, and cacao—harkening back to her memory of Dubai and the flavor she discovered there.
In these ingredients, she unearthed an exquisite depth of flavor and satisfying of range sweetness that forms the base of every Spring & Mulberry product.
what we chat about:
taking a radically different approach to a traditional product category
how a personal health diagnosis shaped the brand
intentional design and flavor formulation
favorite ways to pair the different chocolate bars
IG spring.mulberry | springandmulberry.com
Find Me:
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citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
Salad Sprinkles are Flavorful, Sprinkle-Sized Rice Puffs That Put Crunch In Every Bite!
Jordan is an award-winning graphic designer and entrepreneur. For over 12 years, her eye for design has made products pop on shelves and screens alike. Our clever TikTok’s and metallic labels are her pride and joy. Blakely has run creative operations at one of the world’s best ad agencies for 13 years. She has seen countless business-transforming campaigns come to life and has kept the company’s engine running smoothly.
what we chat about:
Taking the concept for Salad Sprinkles from ideation to shelf
The journey of landing on rice for the base of the product & developing the 3 initial flavors
All of the fun uses of Salad Sprinkles in both savory & sweet applications
How design played such a large roll in the identity of the brand
IG eatsaladsprinkles | eatsaladsprinkles.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
MILKish is smooth, creamy (kind of like almond milk), delicious, and totally allergen-friendly, with 0g sugar and 99% less water use than almonds. They offer two unsweetened flavors: Original and Vanilla, and are launching now in coffee shops and specialty retail + Amazon, and it’s already catching attention in the fast-growing alt-milk category.
what we chat about:
why watermelon seeds were chosen as the star ingredient
gaps seen in the alt-milk market
the importance of sustainability & inclusivity in MILKish product development
exciting & unexpected moments during launch
IG drinkmilkish | forcafoods.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
After being diagnosed with an array of chronic gut illnesses, and being fortunate to work with a functional medicine doctor, Xeba learned about the power of supplements and nutrition. While on a restricted diet, she searched snack aisles and couldn't find BFY snacks that actually tasted indulgent and catered to modern day, root cause, gut health research. She is on a mission to provide support and indulgent opportunities for the growing number of people suffering from mysterious gut issues.
Preme (pronounced like /pream/) is a gut health brand made with sensitive stomachs top of mind. Preme combines premium ingredients with fodmap friendly prebiotics, offering gut-skin axis targeted hydration beverage powders.
IG drinkpreme | premefoods.com
Find Me:
IG + TikTok citrusdiaries.studio
citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
This episode is sponsored by Hummingbirds, learn more by booking a call with their team!
Jennifer Liao is the President and Co-Founder of modern Chinese food brand MìLà. A dynamic leader who wears many hats, she’s involved in everything from supplier relationships to brand storytelling.
Born in 2018 as a brick-and-mortar shop in Bellevue, Washington, MìLà has evolved into a culinary force that brings restaurant-caliber Chinese delicacies into homes across America. The brand's thoughtfully-crafted soup dumplings, noodles, sauces, and desserts honor traditional techniques while embracing contemporary tastes and quality ingredients.
IG eat.mila | eatmila.com
Find Me:
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citrusdiaries.com | hello@citrusdiaries.com
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr