146. Bold Moves to Build a Brand that Leaves a Legacy - with Matt Keepman of Mullen's Dairy Bar

What does it take to build a food brand that leaves a lasting impact? Whether you're just starting out or decades in, your legacy isn't just about how long your brand survives — it's about the people you impact along the way.

In this episode, Food Brand Strategist Katie Mleziva and co-host Clint Matthews, co-founder of Start Right Foods, are joined by Matt Keepman of Mullins Dairy Bar, a nearly 100-year-old iconic ice cream brand based in Wisconsin.

Together, they explore what it means to be caretakers of a legacy brand, how to make bold decisions that align with your values, and why lasting impact comes from both protecting tradition and shaking things up with bold decisions when something is out of alignment.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• Why legacy is about impact, not just longevity
• When Mullen's removed artificial dyes — and what happened next
• The role of community in keeping a legacy brand alive
• How being bold can help you build a brand that lasts
• How to balance honoring the past with innovating for the future
• ...and just for fun, Matt's expert tip on how to get rid of an ice cream headache (or, Mullen's dairy-free sorbet in this example)!

🔔 Don't forget to get on the email list for Friday emails that include short, fun worksheets to help you bring your ideas to life!

If you want to make a positive impact and leave a legacy with the brand you're building, you don't want to miss this conversation.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES 🔗

✓ FREE Brand Review Guide – realfoodbrands.com

✓ Real Food Brands Marketing Roundtable (Free Facebook Community to follow up on episode questions or ideas)

✓ Work with me: 1:1 Brand Review Workshop or Brand Success System

✓ Say hi on Instagram: @realfoodbrands

✓ Mullen's Dairy Bar website

✓ Start Right Foods website

Thanks for listening – let's go shake up shopping carts!

Katie Mleziva

Host & Food Brand Strategist | Real Food Brands