In this episode, we chat with Katie Cella to explore what today’s investors are really looking for — and how founders can better tell their story, demonstrate traction, and build meaningful relationships with capital partners. We also break down how aspiring investors can start angel investing, make confident decisions, and contribute to a more diverse, future-focused investment landscape.
In this episode, Mara Smith, founder of Inspiro Tequila, shares her journey from being a corporate strategist and stay-at-home mom to launching a tequila brand focused on additive-free products. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of being a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, the wide space she identified in targeting female consumers, and her commitment to social impact through her brand. Mara emphasizes the need for strategic growth, innovative marketing, and community collaboration while navigating the complexities of the spirits industry.
In this episode, Sam Abramson — who was serving as CEO of Just Date at the time of recording and has since transitioned out of the role — shares the origin story of the brand, which began with a focus on creating healthier sweeteners from dates. The conversation covers the evolution of their product line, including the introduction of date-sweetened chocolate and foodservice clients, and the importance of consumer behavior in shaping their offerings. Sam emphasizes the significance of taste and health benefits in their products, as well as the challenges and strategies involved in marketing and distribution. The conversation also touches on the company’s lean approach to growth and future goals, including expanding their presence in retail and e-commerce.
In this episode, Rachel Simons, founder of Seed & Mill, shares her journey from being a media lawyer to a food entrepreneur, highlighting the evolution of her brand dedicated to sesame products. She discusses the growing popularity of tahini and halva, the health benefits of sesame, and the company's innovative expansion into ice cream. Rachel also addresses the challenges of brand communication, the importance of community engagement, and the lessons learned from parting with co-founders. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the significance of building relationships in the food industry.
In this episode, Howard Fischer shares his journey from traditional finance to impact investing, highlighting the importance of using capitalism as a tool for social change. He discusses the mission of Gratitude Railroad, the investment strategies employed, and the significance of authenticity in founders. Howard emphasizes the need for professionalism in impact investing and the role of policy in facilitating change. He also explores the intersection of film, literature, and social impact, offering insights into the future of sustainable investing and the importance of investor relationships.
Gloria Chou, an award-winning PR strategist, shares her expertise helping founders gain visibility in top-tier media. She emphasizes the benefits of earned media over paid placements, the distinction between PR and marketing, and the power of storytelling in building credibility. Gloria introduces her CPR method for crafting effective pitches and discusses how founders can track their PR efforts. She advocates for a more inclusive PR landscape and encourages founders to embrace their unique stories to connect with consumers.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Greer Tessler, Founding Partner of Simple Food Ventures, shares her journey in Venture Capital, focusing on early-stage investments in the food and beverage sector. She discusses her background, the importance of relationships with founders, and the unique approach her fund takes in evaluating potential investments. Greer highlights her insights on current trends in consumer behavior, the challenges faced in the CPG landscape, and offers valuable advice for entrepreneurs seeking funding. The discussion emphasizes the shift towards healthier food options and the evolving dynamics of the CPG market.
In this episode, Lex Evan, founder and CEO of Lexington Bakes, shares the journey of creating an eco-conscious luxury baked good brand. From self production to a focus on radical ingredient transparency, Lex discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a brand rooted in integrity and innovation. The conversation explores branding lessons from his experience in the beauty industry, the importance of hands-on involvement in branding, and the strategic decisions that have positioned Lexington Bakes for growth in the competitive food landscape.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Lauren Chew, founder and CEO of Love + Chew Brands, shares her journey from tech to entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges and triumphs of building a plant-based snack company. She discusses the importance of consumer feedback in product development, strategies for scaling without external funding, and the operational efficiencies that have driven her success. Lauren also emphasizes the significance of maintaining strong relationships with retailers and the need for a diverse sales strategy to engage consumers effectively.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Regina Trillo, founder of Nemi Snacks, shares her journey of creating a brand that elevates Mexican culture through authentic and sustainable products and branding. She discusses the challenges of representation in the food industry, the importance of flavor innovation, and the need for ethical sourcing. Regina emphasizes the significance of mentorship and community support in navigating the complexities of building a minority-owned business. The conversation also touches on the importance of creating an equitable ecosystem for emerging brands in the CPG space.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this epsiode, Hudson Davis-Ross, Founder & CEO of Plant People, shares his entrepreneurial journey and his experiences in the CPG industry and wellness-driven brands. He discusses the transition from beverage to supplements, the importance of innovation in crowded markets, and the challenges faced during COVID. Hudson emphasizes the significance of building a strong team culture and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the need to get to market quickly and learn from customer feedback.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Nicholas Naclerio shares his journey as the founder of Mmmly, a better-for-you cookie brand. He discusses the challenges of identifying market gaps, scaling production, and the importance of grassroots marketing. Nicholas also delves into funding strategies, building an advisory network, and the realities of the acquisition process, emphasizing the lessons learned and his future aspirations in the food industry.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this conversation, Laura Shafferman, founder and CEO of Legally Addictive Foods, shares her journey from creating a cookie recipe in her kitchen to building a successful snack brand. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from homemade products to commercial production, the importance of branding and packaging, the strategies used to navigate pricing and market positioning, and how to make your brand stick out on a shelf. Laura emphasizes the significance of flavor innovation, social media engagement, and building a strong team, while also offering valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the food industry.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Kiki Couchman shares the journey of co-founding Beny Yogurt, a gut-health-first dairy yogurt poised to disrupt a category filled with incumbents. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in the dairy market, the importance of community building for brand success, and the strategies for differentiating their product in a crowded space. Kiki also reflects on her transition from private equity to entrepreneurship, the lessons learned, and her vision for the future of Benny Yogurt.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, JT Sarafa shares his journey from helping grow his family's popcorn business, Pop Daddy Snacks, to becoming an expert in scaling brands on TikTok Shop. He discusses the unique features of TikTok Shop, how to drive trial and use the algorithm to your benefit, and the halo effect that TikTok success has on retail growth. JT also emphasizes the significance of leveraging TikTok for product innovation and customer feedback, while outlining key trends shaping online sales. He shares actionable steps for launching and growing a brand on TikTok.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Matt Weiss, founder of RIND Snacks, shares the journey of creating a sustainable snack brand rooted in his family's history with whole foods. He discusses the importance of upcycling, innovative product development, and the challenges of fundraising while maintaining a mission-driven approach. Matt emphasizes the significance of building credibility with investors, navigating growth expectations, and the strategic decision to vertically integrate manufacturing. He also highlights the role of retail strategy, driving trial and brand loyalty, and the impact of social initiatives on brand equity. Looking ahead, Matt envisions expanding RIND's product offerings while staying true to their sustainability mission.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Asel Ashergold shares her journey from private equity to launching Pick Me Up Snacks, a healthy, date-based snack brand. She discusses the origin of her product, the importance of nutrition in product development, and how consumer feedback shaped her business. Asel emphasizes the significance of simplicity and transparency in her product offerings, as well as the challenges and lessons learned as a first-time founder. She also touches on stress management, the importance of asking for help, and her future plans for product innovation and expansion.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Sara Cullen, founder of GEM, shares her journey creating a health-focused company that emphasizes a deficiency-first approach to nutrition. She discusses the kaleidoscopic health, which integrates various philosophies and scientific insights into product development. The conversation also covers the challenges and innovations in the supplement industry, the significance of consumer-driven product development, and the strategic goals for GEM's growth. Sara highlights the benefits of a subscription model, the role of HSA/FSA eligibility in expanding market reach, and the importance of building trust through transparency and community engagement. Additionally, she shares insights on fundraising, particularly for female founders, and reflects on her previous venture, Plant Life Ventures, and the lessons learned that continue to shape GEM's mission.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Kathrin Henon shares her journey as an entrepreneur and the story behind her brand, Planet Bake. She discusses the challenges of creating a health-focused food product during the pandemic, the importance of innovation in the food industry, and her approach to balancing health and indulgence in her products. Kathrin also delves into the intricacies of pricing, retail partnerships, and the challenges and benefits of bootstrapping. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the significance of community engagement and educational content in building trust with consumers.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Alli Ball, founder and CEO of Food Biz Wiz, shares her journey going from being a retail buyer to creating a structured program called Retail Ready, aimed at helping emerging food brands succeed in the competitive market. She discusses the importance of understanding the target audience, effective outreach strategies, and the balance between digital and physical retail marketing. Alli emphasizes the need for operational readiness, the role of feedback in product development, and the significance of rebranding. She also highlights key traits of successful founders and offers valuable advice for new entrepreneurs in the food and beverage industry.
If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.