In this episode of Oh For Food’s Sake, we’re diving deep into one of our favourite (and often misunderstood) topics: the Stage-Gate process in food manufacturing and innovation. We pull back the curtain on what really makes Stage Gate both a launching pad for innovation and—when done wrong—a source of chaos, stress, and spreadsheet-induced headaches. You’ll get the low-down on why having a clear, well-communicated process is essential, how soft skills are just as important as systems, and what happens when businesses ignore the realities on the ground. We also get honest about the industry’s slow adoption of technology, how to get buy-in at every level, and even tackle the hot topic of AI: should we run scared, or can it actually be our new best mate? If you’re feeling swamped by endless spreadsheets, chasing artwork, or wondering how to get the rest of the business on board, this one’s for you. We keep it real about the highs, the lows, and the daily grind—and dish out practical advice for thriving (not just surviving) in food product development.