Taste Radio

Back to the Roots, which markets indoor gardening kits and organic breakfast cereal, has come a long way. Having started out making mushrooms out of coffee waste, the company has evolved into an ambitious sustainable food brand that envisions a future when it's recognized as "The Pixar of Food." In this week's episode of Taste Radio, co-founder Nikhil Arora discussed how Back to the Roots is positioning itself to achieve that lofty goal through a consumer-centric approach to innovation and working hand-in-hand with key retailers. "People ask, 'how'd you go from mushrooms to aquaponics to cereal?' he said. "It was talking to our consumers and being able to have that opportunity. Whole Foods was a huge part of that." Ahora noted that strategic planning always starts with "what problem are you solving for consumers," and pointed to the company's indoor gardening kits as a way for urban dwellers with limited yard space to grow their own food. In CPG, Back to the Roots cereals, formulated with four ingredients or less, are designed to be healthy alternatives to sugar-laden legacy brands, while "connecting kids back to real food." Also included in this episode: an interview with Mark Young, who is the founder and CEO of BeerBoard, a beer management platform that enables breweries, restaurants and bars to make real-time marketing decisions about their beer selection. And this week's Elevator Talk features Kareem Elhamasy, the co-founder of Nitro Beverage Co., a upstart maker of nitro coffee and kombucha. Show notes: 1:00: Prepping Your Protein -- Protein is one of the hottest ingredients in food and beverage and is being marketed in a dizzying array of forms and formats. Milk-based drinks, pea-based protein powders, meat jerky, whey-infused waters, nut-based bars, whole bean snacks. We see this stuff come into the office every day; the hosts discuss how they wade through the ever-increasing options for protein consumption. 9:20: Interview: Nikhil Arora, Co-Founder/Co-CEO, Back to the Roots -- Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg met with Arora at the Produce Marketing Association's 2017 Fresh Summit in New Orleans for a wide-ranging conversation that includes discussion about the origins of Back to the Roots, how close relationships with Whole Foods and Amazon accelerated its development and how the company has navigated the foodservice business in NYC schools. 36:02: Interview: Mark Young, Founder/CEO, BeerBoard -- Young explained how BeerBoard improves inventory control by reducing overpours, underpours and "unauthorized comps." He noted that the company's emergence comes as the beer industry is "getting more educated about technology in ways that they can benefit from it." 1:01:56: Elevator Talk: Kareem Elhamasy, Co-Founder, Nitro Beverage Co. -- Elhamasy recently visited BevNET HQ and introduced us to Nitro Beverage Co., which he co-founded with three friends in Asbury Park, NJ. Brands in this episode: Nothing But The Fruit, OWYN, Back to The Roots, Love Beets, BeerBoard, Nitro Beverage Co. For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

Barry Nalebuff believes that food and beverage entrepreneurs should focus on solving what he calls "a real problem." When he co-founded organic beverage brand Honest Tea 20 years ago, that meant delivering healthier bottled drinks to consumers at a time when few such options existed. Nalebuff has since integrated that philosophy into other ventures, including alcoholic kombucha company Kombrewcha and Maker Oats, a new brand of organic overnight oats that he developed in partnership with Quaker Oaks. The ultimate goal, he says, is to transform an industry laden with unhealthy ingredients and formulations. "If you think about what people have put in our foods, do you think they've actually made us healthier?" he asked. "I'd like to be able to trust in my food companies. I want to make things that you can trust. I want to appeal to people who read labels." In this week's edition of Taste Radio, Nalebuff joined us for a wide-ranging conversation about his career as an entrepreneur and investor, including why premiumization has been an effective path to innovation, lessons learned from early missteps at Honest Tea, and how he views Maker Oats as fitting into Americans' daily routines. Also included in this episode: An interview with Will Willis, co-founder of Boston-based craft distillery Bully Boy Distillers. Willis, who launched Bully Boy in 2011 with his brother Dave, discussed his journey in the fast-growing business of craft spirits, including their initial foray into the space, how the industry has evolved over the past six years and what he's learned along the way. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we sit down with Ryan Close, the creator of Bartesian, a countertop machine described as the "Keurig for Cocktails." Show notes: 'Cause I'm Eating on a Jetplane: In just a few days, the team will be heading out to Santa Monica for BevNET Live, Brewbound Session and NOSH Live. Most of us will probably make a beeline to the In N' Out near LAX as soon as we land. But how, pray tell, will we nourish ourselves during the journey? The hosts discuss some go-to snacks and drinks when flying, including Barnana, Biena Snacks, Monfefo, Temple Turmeric and Terra Chips. Interview: Barry Nalebuff, Co-Founder, Honest Tea, Kombrewcha, Maker Oats -- Nalebuff recently joined BevNET CEO John Craven and Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg at BevNET HQ for a wide-ranging conversation about his career as an entrepreneur and investor. Nalebuff, who's also a professor of management at Yale University, explained his innovation philosophy, beginning with Honest Tea and later with Kombrewcha and Maker Oats, how entrepreneurs can empower designers to best align branding and packaging with their visions and why it's critical for him to work with people that he "totally trusts." Interview: Will Willis, Co-Founder, Bully Boy Distillers -- As the market for craft spirits continues to develop, we've stayed curious about the segment and its parallels to emerging categories in food and non-alcoholic beverages. So when we were invited to visit Bully Boy Distillers, an urban craft distillery located in Boston, we figured it was a good opportunity to chat about the business with folks in the trenches. John and Ray recently checked out Bully Boy and met with co-founder Will Willis. Elevator Talk: Ryan Close, Co-Founder, Bartesian -- Close is the co-founder of Bartesian, a Keurig-type machine that makes cocktails on demand. We met up with Close last month in L.A. and recorded this edition of Elevator Talk. Brands in this episode: Barnana, Biena, Monfefo, Temple Turmeric, Terra Chips, Honest Tea, Kombrewcha, Calicraft, Maker Oats, Bully Boy, Bartesian For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

Halen Brands, a privately held operating company that invests in, acquires, and operates food and beverage brands, describes itself as "created by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs." It's an appropriate tagline given Halen's leadership team, which is headed by founder and co-CEO Jason Cohen, a highly successful entrepreneur and investor who's grown and sold brands including Mamma Says, Sensible Portions, Rickland Orchards and partnered with the founders of Skinny Pop for a combined total of over $560 million. In an interview featured in this week's episode, Cohen discussed his background in the food and beverage business and why he launched Halen, which in partnership with Clearlake Capital, currently has investments in fast-growing brands including CORE and Chef's Cut Jerky and recently acquired OWYN, a brand of plant-protein drinks and shake powders. Cohen also shared lessons about building successful relationships with retail buyers and the one thing entrepreneurs should avoid if they want to sell their company. Also included in this week's episode: An interview with Ken Plasse, the CEO of Fishpeople Seafood, a leading brand of sustainable and traceable seafood. Plasse spoke about the company's mission to "change consumers' relationship with the sea" and to preserve and support local fishing communities. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we speak with Sarah Hardgrove-Koleno, the co-founder and CEO of KRā, an organic sports drink brand. Show notes: 1:05: It's Automatic: A growing number of high-end automatic coffee and tea machines have come to market, and a few have arrived here at the office. While some might accuse the devices of undercutting the artisanal quality derived from, say, the long steeped cold brew, the ceremony of matcha preparation or the gentle nature of pour-over coffee, manufacturers promote the consistency and convenience of the machines versus traditional tools. The hosts experiment with a few of these countertop appliances and offer their takes. 11:57: Interview: Jason Cohen, Founder, Co-CEO, Halen Brands -- Cohen recently visited BevNET HQ in Watertown, Mass. and spoke with Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and BevNET CMO Mike Schneider about his career as an entrepreneur and investor. As part of the conversation, Cohen implores other entrepreneurs not to get "too attached to your brand if your ultimate goal is to sell it," explains why "competitive friendliness" among other small food makers helped build the fast-growing better-for-you snack set and what he perceives as the differences between the food and beverage industries. 36:37: Interview: Ken Plasse, CEO, Fishpeople Seafood -- Plasse joined Carol Ortenberg for a conversation recorded at the recently held Esca Bona conference in Austin, Texas. He discussed how Fishpeople attempts to build its brand story by drawing a direct line from its fishing partners to consumers and how its e-commerce platform presents an amazing opportunity to communicate directly with -- and learn from -- its customers. 59:05: Elevator Talk: Sarah Hardgrove-Koleno, Co-Founder/CEO, KRā -- A former attorney based in Chicago, Hardgrove-Koleno last year co-founded KRā, an organic sports drink brand. We caught up with Sarah at the NACS 2017 show and connected for this edition of Elevator Talk. Brands in this episode: Ito En, Halen Brands, Mamma Says, Sensible Portions, Rickland Orchards, Skinny Pop, CORE, Chef's Cut Jerky, OWYN, Fishpeople Seafood, KRā

Adnan Durrani was once known as "The Suit." A former Wall Street executive, Durrani's first experience at a natural foods show was a clash in styles: a buttoned-up banker dressed in Brooks Brothers amid hippie entrepreneurs clad in raggedy jeans and sandals. Despite the difference in style, Durrani found himself embraced by the community and in particular by Stonyfield Farm co-founder Gary Hirshberg, for whom Durrani served as a board member and investor. Durrani is currently the CEO of American Halal, the company behind halal-certified frozen food and snack brand Saffron Road, which he founded in 2009. In this week's episode of Taste Radio, he spoke about his career in the food and beverage business and how his belief system evolved during his transition from Wall Street into the natural food space. He also explained how he identified a huge growth opportunity for halal foods in the U.S. and why Saffron Road saw millennials as a key consumer demographic during the brand's launch. Durrani also discussed how the company was able to turn a potential PR nightmare into an opportunity and why he's increasingly immersing himself and his brand into political causes. Also in this episode: An interview with Neel Premkumar, the founder and CEO of Dyla Brands, which markets Forto Coffee energy shots and Stur liquid water enhancers. A former CPG executive with stints at Nestlé and Pfizer, Premkumar spoke about his foray into entrepreneurship and his process for identifying white space and marketable innovation in saturated categories. And in this week's Elevator Talk, we spoke with BJ Mccaslin and Jason Trawick, the co-founders of Minute Mixology, a brand of all-natural, single-serve cocktail mixers. This episode is presented by Sovereign Flavors. Show notes: 1:31: Life's a Pitch…: BevNET Live, NOSH Live and Brewbound Session are just weeks away. The hosts encouraged new brand owners and early-stage entrepreneurs attending the events to introduce themselves to the team. They recalled meeting entrepreneurs, before they were big successes with their brands, for the first time at past events, including Janie Hoffman from Mamma Chia and Justin Trout, Dina Trout and Vanessa Dew from Health-Ade. 6:30: Interview: Adnan Durrani, Founder/CEO, American Halal/Saffron Road -- Adnan Durrani is the founder and CEO of American Halal, the maker of Saffron Road, a brand of halal-certified frozen foods and healthy snacks. BevNET editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman met with Durrani at American Halal's headquarters in Stamford, Conn. 40:11: Interview: Neel Premkumar, Founder/CEO, Dyla Brands -- Last month at NACS 2017, BevNET's Ray Latif and Brad Avery met with Neel Premkumar, who is the founder and CEO of Dyla Brands. Dyla is the maker of Forto Coffee, a fast-growing brand of organic, coffee-based energy shots and Stur, a brand of all-natural drink mixes. Premkumar discussed why learning from missteps has been critical to the evolution of Forto, how e-commerce established a critical conduit between the company and its consumers and recent strategic partnerships with The Hershey Co., Peet's and Keurig. 1:02:28: Elevator Talk: BJ Mccaslin & Jason Trawick, Co-Founders, Minute Mixology -- BJ McCaslin is a beverage entrepreneur perhaps best known as the co-founder of Coco Cafe, an espresso and coconut water blend that was acquired by Vita Coco in 2012. His latest project is Minute Mixology, a brand of all-natural, single-serve cocktail mixers. We caught with BJ and his co-founder Jason Trawick in Los Angeles, and connected for this edition of Elevator Talk. Brands in this episode: Mamma Chia, Health-Ade, Saffron Road, Stonyfield Farm, Vermont Pure Spring Water, Forto Coffee, Stur, Coco Cafe, Vita Coco, Minute Mixology For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

A former software engineer, John Coogan says that programmers are often pondering ways to "automate ourselves out of a job." Coogan, who in 2013 co-founded fast-growing meal replacement products brand Soylent, has a similar perspective when it comes to entrepreneurship. In a recent interview featured in this week's episode of Taste Radio, Coogan, who recently stepped down as Soylent's CTO, said that "as entrepreneurs, we should be thinking about how we can manage ourselves out of a job." Amid the brand's ongoing expansion from direct-to-consumer sales and into retail stores, Coogan explained that it was important for Soylent, "to find people that are essentially the right tool for the job… and that have seen these challenges before." In recent months the company has brought on several experienced CPG executives, including former KeVita chief strategy officer Bryan Crowley as president, to support its retail expansion. Coogan also discussed how Soylent's e-commerce-only model enabled the company "to start collecting data on who our customer was, as well as get product in their hands much faster." Perhaps most importantly, the business strategy presented Soylent with a streamlined path to retail. "You'll have customers that can actually go and drive adoption at retail stores because they've heard about you online," he said. Also included in this episode: a conversation with influential food and lifestyle blogger Olivia Ku. Ku, who has a following of nearly 200,000 users on Instagram, spoke about how brands can best interact with influencers and why successful partnerships require a true sense of "added value" for both parties. And in this week's Elevator Talk, we spoke with Shayne Malone, who is the founder and CEO of Zavu, a brand of cold-pressed, HPP juices made from indigenous Brazilian fruits. Show notes: 2:24: WEED Deal: The hosts discuss the Constellation Brands' recent acquisition of a 9.9 percent stake in cannabis producer Canopy Growth Corporation for $191 million. Constellation, which makes and markets a variety of well-known beer, wine and spirits products,d that the deal is aimed at developing and marketing cannabis-infused beverages that do not contain alcohol. John Craven notes that Constellation is preparing for the gold rush into legal marijuana, assuming relaxed regulation is forthcoming. Jon Landis discusses how current cannabis-infused beverage brands are wading into the market and educating consumers about dosages. 11:15: Interview: John Coogan, Co-Founder, Soylent -- John Coogan is a co-founder of Soylent and served as Soylent's CTO until stepping down a few months ago. He recently sat down with John and Mike for a conversation about his role with the company and how Soylent, which until recently has been as been sold exclusively online, is positioning itself for massive growth at retail. For new brand owners, listen to why Coogan views direct-to-consumer as "super important for early-stage food and beverage companies." 39:18: Interview: Olivia Ku, Founder, LoveHealthOK: Mike Schneider recently met with highly influential food and lifestyle blogger Olivia Ku. In a conversation recorded at the offices of Califia Farms in downtown L.A., Ku explained her path to becoming a social media guru and offered advice on how brands can most effectively engage influencers. 59:45: Elevator Talk: Shayne Malone, Founder/CEO, Zavu: Shane Malone is the founder and CEO of Zavu, a brand of cold-pressed, HPP juices made from indigenous Brazilian fruits, including caju, acerola and cupuacu. Shane spoke with the Taste Radio team at Expo East 2017 about his upstart brand and the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead. Brands in this episode: Dixie Elixirs, Soylent, Califia Farms, Zavu For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

A tech executive-turned-beverage entrepreneur, Kara Goldin has incorporated many of the lessons from her career in Silicon Valley into the development of Hint, an unsweetened, flavored water brand that she launched in 2005. In this week's episode of Taste Radio, we spoke with Goldin about how her experiences in the tech world helped shape the business strategy for Hint, which markets a variety of still and sparkling water products and is nearing $100 million in annual sales. Goldin also explained how she overcame early challenges of a food and beverage industry long dominated by legacy brands, Hint's development of an highly successful e-commerce platform and her belief that a company's "ability to stay close to the customer and understand what the customer thinks about your product is really the key" to winning. Also included in this episode: a conversation with Billy Bosch, who is the co-founder and CEO of protein drink brand Iconic. Bosch discussed his journey as an entrepreneur, offering insight into lessons learned and key takeaways from the past six years. And in this week's Elevator Talk, we spoke with Mikaela Ray is the CEO of Mikaela's Simple Devine, a maker of gluten-free biscotti cookies. This episode is presented by Sovereign Flavors. Show notes: 0:55: Gassed From NACS: Jon and Ray recently returned from Chicago where they attended the annual National Association of Convenience Stores show. Packed to the walls with the usual plethora of energy drinks, salty snacks, soda, and jerky, the hosts talked about some of the new products and brands that caught their eyes, including a few from the deluge of new coffee products exhibited at the event. 7:47: Interview: Kara Goldin, Founder/CEO, Hint -- Goldin discussed her path from a career in tech to the remarkable success of Hint. Included in the conversation are words of wisdom from her 12 years as an entrepreneur, including why brand owners shouldn't "spend too much time around the naysayers and instead "focus on getting traction." She also talked about Hint's powerful direct-to-consumer platform and what she sees as the future for a brand that's nearing $100 million in sales. 40:02: Interview: Billy Bosch, CEO/Co-Founder, Iconic Protein -- Billy Bosch is the co-founder and CEO of Iconic, a protein drink brand launched in 2011. In our interview, Billy discussed the trials and tribulations of a brand immersed in a fast-evolving market for protein drinks. 1:00:04: Elevator Talk: Mikaela Ray, CEO, Mikaela's Simple Devine -- a maker of biscotti cookies that are gluten-free, kosher, Non-GMO and baked with all natural ingredients. We met up with Mikaela at Expo East 2017 and talked about the launch and development of her business. Brands in this episode: Starbucks, Monster, Dunkin' Donuts, La Colombe, High Brew, HeyDay Cold-Brewed Coffee, Bowery Coffee, Califia Farms, La Colombe, Forto, Stok, Caffe Agave, BodyArmor, Aquahydrate, +Red Elixir, Hint, Iconic Protein For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

Earlier this month the Taste Radio team met with GT Dave, the founder of best-selling kombucha brand GT's Kombucha. In an interview recorded for this episode, Dave discussed the origins of GT's, a brand he created 22 years ago and its pioneering role in the fast-growing and high-profile kombucha category. Recorded at the company's headquarters in Los Angeles, Dave explained his belief that most "successful businesses come from a pure place" and stressed that brands should attempt to connect with consumers on a personal, intimate level. He also discussed why the company is constantly innovating and attempting to improve. "Complacency is a part of human nature, but I believe it's also a version of corporate cancer," he said. "As soon as you feel like you're coasting, you've done enough or you're great is when you start fail." Also included in this episode: a conversation with SnackNation founder and CEO Sean Kelly, who discussed the company's approach to optimizing office culture through better-for-you snacks and aspirational brands. In the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we spoke with Lilly Wunsch is the co-founder and COO of 4th & Heart, a maker of ghee-based foods. This episode is presented by Sovereign Flavors. Show notes: 1:20: We're Loko About These Four Things: The hosts chat about their current crushes in food and beverage, including alcoholic seltzers, Sunday night meal prep, innovative cocktail ingredients and new kombucha offerings at Trader Joe's. 12:00: Interview: GT Dave, Founder/CEO, GT's Living Foods -- Dave discussed explained how the brand and company have evolved over the past two decades while remaining independent and staying true to its core values. 43:02: Interview: Sean Kelly, Founder/CEO, SnackNation -- SnackNation is a company that delivers boxes of healthy snacks to business across the U.S. In our conversation, Kelly explains the company's mission to create happier, healthier and more productive people. He also discusses the company's efforts to be known for thought leadership and why he believes a company's core purpose is not birthed, it's "discovered." 1:02:09: Elevator Talk: Lilly Wunsch, Co-Founder/COO, 4th & Heart -- Lilly Wunsch is the co-founder and COO of 4th & Heart, a maker of ghee-based oils, butters and spreads. We met Lilly at Expo East 2017 and discussed the company's mission to "modernize ancient pantry staples." Brands in the episode: Good Wolf Kefir, Vermont Village, Hudson Standard. Drink Maple, GT's Kombucha, Health-Ade Kombucha, Revive Kombucha, Capital Kombucha, Brew Dr. Kombucha, Nauti Seltzer, White Claw Seltzer, Clif Bars, Krave Jerky, Skinny Pop For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

Joy Bauer believes snacking should be simple. Bauer, the nutrition and health expert for NBC's "Today" show and founder of granola bites company Nourish Snacks, is concerned that an ever-increasing number of product certifications and overwrought marketing callouts are confusing consumers. In an interview included in this week's episode of Taste Radio, Bauer stated her belief that most consumers simply want clean labels, easily understood ingredients and delicious flavors, a perspective that inspired her to launch Nourish Snacks. As part of our conversation, Bauer also shared her opinion on what makes for a sustainable food trend versus a passing fad, and discussed the impact that CPG conglomerates are having in the evolving market for snacks. Also in this episode: An interview with Gus Griffin, the CEO of MGP ingredients, a leading producer of premium distilled spirits that has played a critical role in the emergence and development of the craft spirits segment. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we chat with Marcel Gozali, the founder of Avonut, a brand of ready-to-drink, cold-pressed avocado coconut smoothies. Show notes: 1:14: SoCal Sojourn -- Last week Taste Radio hosts John Craven and Mike Schneider traveled to Los Angeles for a few days of podcasting and video work, meeting up with entrepreneurs and executives from across the food and beverage spectrum. Craven and Schneider shared memorable moments and meetings from their trip, including visits to the offices of GT's Living Foods, Bulletproof Labs, SnackNation and Califia Farms. 11:41: Interview -- Joy Bauer, Founder, Nourish Snacks: In our conversation with Bauer, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2017, she explained her belief in creating nutritious, decadent snacks that don't "feel like a gyp" to consumers. She also discussed how brands can align themselves with current nutritional trends without sacrificing the future and called conglomerates' efforts to reformulate legacy products "a valiant effort." 30:31: Interview -- Gus Griffin, CEO, MGP Ingredients: MGP is a leading producer of premium distilled spirits with a long history of supplying companies large and small with high-quality bourbon, gin and vodka. MGP is particularly known for its prowess as a distiller of rye whiskey and recently launched its own branded portfolio, which includes George Remus Bourbon and Till Vodka. We spoke with CEO Gus Griffin about the new venture as well as MGP's role in the emergence and development of the craft spirits segment. 49:36: Elevator Talk -- Marcel Gozali is the founder of Avonut, brand of ready-to-drink, cold-pressed avocado coconut smoothies. We met Gozali at Natural Expo East 2017 and got the goods on his innovative products and what's next for the brand. Brands in the episode: GT's Kombucha, Califia Farms, Nourish Snacks, George Remus Bourbon, Till Vodka, Avonut For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

Episode 78 of BevNET's Taste Radio podcast features a conversation with Chris Hunter, the co-founder of plant-based protein drink brand Koia and a co-founder of Phusion Projects, the Chicago-based alcoholic beverage company best known as the maker of Four Loko. In our interview, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2017, Hunter discussed the remarkable rise (and notorious reputation) of Four Loko and why a focus on branding and merchandising was key to its success. Hunter also explained his belief that the natural food and beverage industry is "the most exciting space out there," his role in reframing and positioning Koia as a brand first and foremost, and why entrepreneurs should look to align themselves with experienced, value-added investors and advisors. Also included in this episode: A discussion with Project NOSH senior staff reporter Meagan McGinnes about the FDA's new guidance regarding peanut allergies and how food brands are reacting, innovating and commercializing. We chat with the folks behind Shackleton Whisky, a brand inspired by famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we caught up with Safir Jamal, the CMO of 1 Shot Protein, a brand of shots that contain 24g of clean protein per 3 oz. bottle. Show notes: 1:11 -- Reminders, Upcoming Deadlines -- Early registration is ending for NOSH Live and Brewbound Session. The room block is almost halfway full for BevNET Live. Sponsorship opportunities for the events are still available, including the Taste Radio gold package. BevNET's new Media Kit is now available. Learn more about advertising with BevNET, Project NOSH and Brewbound and Taste Radio. 3:48 -- Pumpkin Spice Life -- 'Tis the season for everything pumpkin spice. What started with lattes and cookies has become a phenomenon in which entire endcaps and aisles are dedicated to pumpkin spice products. Have we reached a saturation point with the flavor? The hosts discuss. 9:04 -- Interview: Chris Hunter, Founder/CEO Koia; Co-Founder, Phusion Projects -- In our interview with Hunter we discussed his background in the beverage business, navigating both the phenomenal success and intense public scrutiny of Four Loko, why he segued into the non-alcoholic beverages with Koia and how he sees the plant-based protein drink category evolving in the coming years. 29:18 -- Trendspotter: The FDA Wants More Kids Eating Peanuts -- Last month FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb released a statement regarding a new qualified health claim that early introduction of peanuts to certain high-risk infants may reduce risk of peanut allergy. We discussed the growing crises around peanut allergies, the FDA's decision to issue the statement and opportunities for kids' brands to leverage the new guidance in marketing and innovation strategies. 43:55 -- Interview -- Tim Jarvis and Jason Moore, Shackleton Whisky -- Scottish spirits company Whyte and Mackay recently announced the launch of Shackleton Whiskey, a brand inspired by famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, who's known for leading a series of British explorations to the Antarctic. We recently spoke with Tim Jarvis, an environmental explorer and global brand ambassador for Shackleton Whisky, who in 2013 led an authentic retracing of Shackleton's journey, and Whyte & Mackay Single Malt Specialist Jason Moore about the new whisky and their role in its creation and launch on the market. 52:05 -- Elevator Talk: 1 Shot Protein is a brand of shots that contain 24g of clean protein per 3 oz. bottle. We recently caught up with the company's CMO, Safir Jamal, who visited us at BevNET HQ. Brands in this episode: Koia, Four Loko, Not Your Father's, Shackleton Whiskey, Hello Peanut, MyPeanut, 1 Shot Protein. For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

In this week's episode of BevNET's Taste Radio, we're joined by Pat Brown, the founder and CEO of Impossible Foods, a food tech company focused on the development of meat, dairy and fish products derived from plant-based material. Best known as the maker of the Impossible Burger, a juicy, meatless patty that's served in trendy restaurants nationwide, the company has reportedly raised over $300 million to date, including investment from GV and Bill Gates. Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and BevNET sr. brand specialist Jon Landis recently spoke with Brown about the origins and business strategy behind Impossible Burger and his vision for the future of plant-based meat and the brand. Also included in this episode: An interview with Adam Louras, who is the founder of Koa, an innovative, but recently discontinued brand of colorless, calorie- and sugar-free juices. Louras, who is currently the chief operating officer of functional drink company Dirty Lemon Beverages, discussed learning lessons from his journey as a beverage entrepreneur and reflected on stumbling blocks and pitfalls -- including which ones may have been avoidable. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we spoke with Royce Pinkwater, the founder and CEO of Bontá Hydration, a brand of all-natural, low-calorie beverages made with Mediterranean sourced ingredients. Show notes: The Mailbag -- The hosts review questions and comments from Taste Radio listeners. From a venture capitalist in Los Angeles: How can trendy, new brands stay relevant? From a beverage entrepreneur in Chicagoland: Why do you guys like ginger so damn much? Interview: Pat Brown, Founder/CEO, Impossible Burger -- Brown discussed his belief that there is a "fundamental fallacy" that meat has to come from animals and pointed to research that meat-loving consumers would prefer alternative sources. That said, he notes: "Carnivores aren't going to cut us any breaks. If we can't deliver what they want, then it's back to the drawing board for us." He also made a bold claim: "If you make a 1 percent improvement in performance of the food system, you'll save more lives and make more lives better than if you found a cure for cancer." Interview: Adam Louras, Founder, Koa -- In our conversation with Louras, he discussed being stretched thin as both a beverage manufacturer and brand owner, the pitfalls of bootstrapping, and opined on the opportunities now available to brands to launch and incubate online versus traditional routes to market. Elevator Talk: Bontá Hydration is a brand of all-natural, low-calorie beverages made with Mediterranean sourced ingredients. We caught up with founder and CEO Royce Pinkwater at BevNET Live Summer 2017 and she explained the origins of the brand and its positioning on the market. Brands in this episode: Impossible Burger, Koa, Dirty Lemon, Bontá Hydration For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

Episode 76 of BevNET's Taste Radio podcast spotlights a wide-ranging conversation with Spindrift founder and CEO Bill Creelman. Recorded at Spindrift headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Creelman waxed about cutting his teeth in the beverage business and the launch, development and sale of his first company, Stirrings, a maker of premium cocktail mixers. He also discussed how the origins of Spindrift, a fast-growing brand of fruit-infused sparkling water, continue to play a critical role in the brand's evolution and remarkable growth, why the brand is pursuing a "craft" identity in the sparkling water category, and how the company has taken a careful approach to retail partnerships and investment. Also included in this episode: BevNET staff reporter Brad Avery and senior brand specialist Jon Landis examine the emergence of MCT oil. The pair discussed MCT's purported functional benefits, why a growing number of food and beverage brands are infusing the ingredient into new products and how it's being marketed to consumers. And this week's edition of Elevator Talk, we chat with James Fayel, the founder and CEO of Zest Tea, a brand of high caffeine teas. This episode is presented by Algarithm Ingredients. Show Notes: 1:07: Chicken Chips FTW -- The hosts chat about the most interesting and innovative products that they saw at Natural Products Expo East 2017. Jon Landis talks about Wilde's Chicken Chips and Vermont Village drinking vinegar shots; John Craven praises Forager's Good Plant Fat Yogurt, Ithaca Cold-Crafted Hummus and 4th and Heart's snackable butter; Ray lauds Harney & Sons' new Nitro Tea line; Mike Schneider gives a thumbs up to Repurposed Pod's Cacao Juice. 9:06: Interview: Bill Creelman, Founder/CEO, Spindrift -- Creelman shares his background as a beverage entrepreneur, breaking into the business with cocktail mixer brand Stirrings, the launch and evolution of Spindrift and the brand's pivot from craft soda to sparkling water. 47:48: Why is MCT Oil "a Thing" -- Jon Landis and Brad Avery discuss MCT Oil, including how it's sourced, efficacy claims and the ingredient's place within the healthy fat trend. 1:01:14: Elevator Talk -- Zest Tea is a brand of high caffeine teas designed for mental clarity and energy. We caught up with founder and CEO James Fayel at BevNET Live Summer 2017 and he shared some insight into the brand and its innovation pipeline. Brands in this episode: Wilde, Vermont Village, Harney & Sons, Forager, Ithaca Cold Crafted, 4th and Heart, Repurposed Pod, Stirrings, Spindrift, LaCroix, Polar, Bulletproof, Zest Tea For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

Taste Radio episode 75, presented by Virun, features a compelling conversation with Aaron Anker and Nat Peirce, who are the co-founders of Grandy Oats, a maker, wholesaler and retailer of organic granola. BevNET editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman met with Anker and Peirce at Grandy Oats' headquarters in Hiram, Maine, where the trio spoke about the company's development and evolution since its launch in 1979. Over the past two years, Grandy Oats, which has remained independent since its founding, has invested in improvements to its manufacturing facility, greening its factory and adding capacity, as it moves closer to national expansion. The upgrades come as the company aims to moves toward an increasingly successful CPG line from what has been a majority bulk food proposition. Also included in this week's episode: BevNET senior brand specialist Jon Landis and the Project NOSH team of Carol Ortenberg and Meagan McGinnes examine the expanding market for plant-based "meat," including key brands and product categories and the various technologies that driving their development. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we speak with Cindy Kasindorf, who is the co-founder of Remedy Organics, a line of almond milk and plant-based protein blends infused with adaptogenic ingredients. Show notes: 1:27: Celebrity Investment. Let's Get Richer! -- This week it was announced that actress Jennifer Garner joined organic baby food maker Once Upon a Farm as an investor and "co-founder." The hosts examine the evolution of celebrity investment into food and beverage brands and why A-listers like Garner are taking a larger role in strategic decisions. 9:40: Interview: BevNET editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman recently drove up to Maine where he met with Aaron Anker and Nat Peirce, who are the co-founders of Grandy Oats, a maker, wholesaler and retailer of organic granola. Anker and Peirce explain how the company has been "lucky and intentional" as one of the pioneers of organic granola products. They also discuss why it's "ok to say 'no'," how the Grandy Oats' authentic brand story has resonated with consumers, and why the company has resisted outside investment. 43:50: Why Is This a Thing: Plant-Based Meat -- An examination of the expanding plant-based "meat" category, including key brands and the technologies behind them. 1:00:26: Elevator Talk -- Cindy Kasindorf, co-founder, Remedy Organics, a line of almond milk and plant-based protein blends infused with adaptogenic ingredients. Cindy and her husband/co-founder Henry participated in New Beverage Showdown 13, which was held in June at BevNET Live Summer 2017. Brands in this episode: Once Upon a Farm, Bai, Aquahydrate, Vitaminwater, Grandy Oats, Beyond Meat, Impossible Burger, Remedy Organics For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact [email protected].

In this week's episode of BevNET's Taste Radio, we're joined by Matt Thomas, the founder and CEO of Townshend's Tea Company and Brew Dr. Kombucha. In a conversation with BevNET assistant editor Marty Caballero, Thomas discussed the origins of Townshend's, a premium tea retailer based in Portland, Ore., and its development of Brew Dr., which has become one of the fastest-growing brands in the breakout kombucha category. Thomas explained how a tea-forward approach to formulation continues to resonate with new and consumers and has positioned Brew Dr. to achieve explosive growth at retail. The brand is represented nationally at Trader Joe's and available throughout the Pacific Northwest and along the West Coast at retailers including Target and Costco. Also included in this episode: A conversation with Dan and Genevieve Brazelton, who are the founders of Improper Goods, the parent company of RAFT Botanical cocktail syrups and The Bitter Housewife, a brand of small-batch, aromatic bitters. The husband-and-wife team spoke with Caballero about the company's focus of creating approachable ingredients with broad appeal. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we speak with Kenneth Park, the founder and CEO of Detox Water, a brand of bioactive aloe water enhanced with electrolytes and vitamins. This episode is presented by Virun. Show notes: 1:24: Has Juicero Squeezed Its Last Drop? -- On Friday, Juicero announced that it would suspend sales of its countertop cold-pressed juice machines and produce packs and offer refunds to customers. The hosts discuss the company's woes and speculate on the timing and decision to shut down. 10:20: Interview: Matt Thomas, the founder and CEO of Townshend's Tea Company and Brew Dr. Kombucha -- Thomas discusses the backstory behind Portland, Ore.-based Townsend's Tea and how its focus on premium tea is the foundation for Brew Dr., which is made with using whole tea and no extracts or added juice. "We want to make this stuff like tea and ferment it like kombucha," Thomas stated. He also noted how Brew Dr.'s distinctive tea-forward flavor profile differentiates the brand among competitors, and explained how the company keeps up with the Brew Dr.'s incredible growth. 34:19: Interview: Dan and Genevieve Brazelton, founders, Improper Goods -- The Brazeltons discussed their business and innovation strategy, which focuses on creating cocktail ingredients that are accessible for everyday consumers. Dan spoke about giving "consumers the permission to experiment," by using familiar and approachable flavors. Genevieve explained why the company shifted its emphasis on sales from on-premise retailers to direct-to-consumer and wholesale business. 56:24: Elevator Talk: Kenneth Park, founder and CEO, Detox Water -- Detox Water recently announced new distribution in 1,500 new retail locations across the U.S. including 750 Kroger banners. The company is also on the cusp of closing a Series A round of funding reported to be in the $2-3 million range. Detox Water is also expanding its product line with a couple new line extensions that will be introduced at Expo East. Brands in this episode: Juicero, Brew Dr. Kombucha, GT's Kombucha, KeVita, Raft Syrups, The Bitter Housewife, Detox Water For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions contact [email protected].

This week's episode of Taste Radio features a captivating interview with veteran beverage executive with Joth Ricci, a veteran beverage executive Joth Ricci with one of the most diverse, interesting and impactful track records of anyone in the industry. Over a 17-year career, Ricci has held roles as president of Stumptown Coffee, president and CEO of Jones Soda and managing director with beverage investment and advisory firm First Beverage Group. BevNET assistant editor Marty Caballero recently traveled to Portland, Ore. to meet with Ricci, who is currently the president of Adelsheim Vineyard, a pioneering winery in Oregon's Willamette Valley, and a board member at a number of fast-growing companies in the Pacific Northwest, including Brew Dr. Kombucha and Dry Sparkling. As part of their conversation, Ricci discussed his path to Adelsheim and shared insights into parallels between previous roles and beverage categories, how premiumization has changed the coffee business and why he believes there's more to come for innovation in cold brew. Ricci also offered his take on why Portland has emerged as an incubation hub for innovative food and beverage trends. Also included in this week's episode: Brewbound editor Chris Furnari and assistant editor Justin Kendall joined us to discuss recent M&A deals in craft beer, how they unfolded and their potential impact amid an industry in transition. And this week's Elevator Talk features Deborah Aiza, the founder of Sweet'tauk, a brand of organic, cold-pressed lemonade. Show notes: 1:08: Intro: We're at Whole Foods. We're at Whole Foods. Wait, Is There an Echo In Here? -- Monday marked a new day for Whole Foods. The natural retail giant, whose acquisition by Amazon was approved by shareholders and federal regulators last Thurs., touted lower prices for many of its "best-selling staples" including organic bananas, salmon, organic eggs, almond butter, and grass fed beef. Amazon's influence was promoted on product signage and sales displays for its Echo hands-free smart speaker ("Farm Fresh" read witty banners for the devices). The hosts discuss their take on the updates. 6:53: Interview: Joth Ricci, President, Adelsheim Vineyard -- BevNET assistant editor Marty Caballero recently traveled to Portland, Ore. and met with Joth Ricci, a veteran beverage executive who is currently the president of Adelsheim Vineyard. Joth discussed his path to Adelsheim, parallels between the businesses of coffee and wine, why entrepreneurs need to "learn to say 'no'" and Portland's role as an incubation hub for innovative food and beverage trends. 41:39: Segment: A discussion with Brewbound editor Chris Furnari and assistant editor Justin Kendall join on recent M&A deals in craft beer, including Constellation Brands acquisition of Florida-based brewery Funky Buddha, San Francisco-based Magnolia Brewing's acquisition by a group led by New Belgium Brewing Company, Sapporo Holdings' purchase of Anchor Brewing, and Anheuser-Busch's acquisition of Hiball, which markets energy drinks, sparkling waters, cold brew coffees and sister brand Alta Palla, a brand of non-caffeinated juices and seltzers. 1:00:59: Elevator Talk: Deborah Aiza, Founder, Sweet'Tauk Lemonade -- Sweet'tauk is a brand of organic, cold-pressed lemonade based in Montauk, N.Y. Brands in this episode: Adelsheim Vineyard, Stumptown Coffee, Jones Soda, Starbucks, Brew Dr. Kombucha, Dry Sparkling, Ninkasi Brewing, Funky Buddha, Magnolia Brewing, Anchor Brewing, Hiball, Alta Palla, Sweet'Tauk Lemonade. For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions contact [email protected].

In episode 72 of Taste Radio, we feature a conversation with Poorvi Patodia, who is the founder and CEO of Biena, a fast-growing maker of roasted chickpea snacks. Just five years since its launch, Biena is distributed at 15,000 locations across the U.S. and available at Whole Foods, Target, Sprouts and Stop & Shop. Patodia outlined her vision for roasted chickpeas and how the combination of familiar snack flavors and a healthy, whole food option continues to win over investors, distributors, retailers and consumers. She also discussed why Biena attempts to operate more like a tech firm than a food company and the decision to launch a co-branded line of snacks with Weight Watchers. Also included in this episode: BevNET editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and sr. brand specialist Jon Landis explored the world of retail activation through encounters with the High Brew Liner, a giant bus turned into sampling cafe that is on tour throughout the summer. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we talk with Rob Burns, the co-founder of Night Shift Brewing, a craft beer maker based in Everett, Mass. Show Notes: 1:07: Would You Like to Sample My Yams? -- In-store sampling has long been an effective path to trial consumption. But some demos are executed better than others. What are ways that you've been impressed by a sampling opportunity? Any experiences that you've found particularly impressive… or bad? The hosts discussed the importance of brand advocacy, enthusiasm and engagement and the burdens of retailer required sampling. 7:27: Interview: Poorvi Patodia, founder and CEO, Biena -- Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and BevNET managing editor Ray Latif met with Biena founder/CEO Poorvi Patodia and discussed about the company's rapid rise and how she's shepherded its growth amid surging demand for healthy, plant-based snacks. Patodia also discussed why she runs Biena more like a tech firm than a food company and learning lessons from her first few years as an entrepreneur. 43:19: Interview: Mari Johnson, EVP of Marketing, High Brew Coffee -- Inside the High Brew Liner, we spoke with Johnson about the aims and techniques that would cause a company to sink money into this kind of experiential investment, and recorded some of the interactions that come when a team explores different ways to grow awareness and drive trial. 1:00:13: Elevator Talk: Robert Burns, Co-Founder, Night Shift Brewing -- We meet up with Burns, who co-founded Night Shift Brewing, a fast-growing craft brewery based in Everett, Mass. Brands in this episode: Drink Maple, Sound Sparkling Tea, Biena, High Brew Coffee, Night Shift Brewing. For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions contact [email protected].

Doug Zell believes in "chasing perfection with the hope of never catching it." That concept guides the core mission of Intelligentsia, a super-premium coffee roaster and retailer that Zell co-founded 22 years ago. In a conversation included as part of this week's episode, Zell expounded on how Intelligentsia's relentless pursuit for improvement permeates its retail and packaged coffee business. He also discussed why the "totality of the impression" carries so much significance for the company, the notion that "quality will always find an audience," and shared lessons learned from over two decades in business. Also included in this episode is an interview with Tyler Gage, who co-founded guayusa beverage brand Runa and is the author of a new book called "Fully Alive." The book chronicles his immersion in Amazonian indigenous spirituality and its life-changing impact on him and his company. We also spoke with Miriam Novalle, the owner of CBD beverage company High Tea Today, in the latest edition of Elevator Talk. Show notes: 1:17: So, Shall We Chat About Instagram? -- Instagram continues to emerge as an influential social media platform for food and beverage brands. The hosts share their take on key elements of an effective Instagram strategy. Mike Schneider suggests that companies start simple, engage conversation, and "be on brand." Jon Landis noted that Instagram has become a powerful platform for indie photographers and creative partnerships. John Craven believes that images should be visually appealing, where the product doesn't take away from the photo itself. Ray likes photos of food and beverages that whet the palate. 5:44: Interview: Doug Zell, Co-Founder, Intelligentsia Coffee -- Doug Zell is the co-founder of Intelligentsia, a specialty coffee roaster and retailer with cafes, and production facilities in Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York and most recently added a cafe and training lab in Watertown, MA, right down the road from BevNET headquarters. We discuss his background in the coffee business, how Intelligentsia distinguished itself as a super-premium coffee brand, keys to its success, and lessons learned from the company's 22 years in business. 42:19: Interview: Tyler Gage, Co-Founder, Runa -- Tyler discusses his new book, "Fully Alive," which tells the story about a "successful young entrepreneur's immersion in Amazonian indigenous spirituality." Gage discusses how the infusion of shamanistic principles in life and work helped him to build a successful, socially responsible company and live a purposeful life, and why he believes in vulnerability as an important aspect of business. 1:05:03: Elevator Talk -- Miriam Novalle is the owner of High Tea Today, a maker of cold brew tea infused with organic CBD. Brands in this episode: Intelligentsia, Runa, Tio Gazpacho, High Tea Today For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions contact [email protected].

Episode 70 of BevNET's Taste Radio podcast spotlights a recent conversation with Jeff Church, the co-founder and CEO of Suja, a maker of organic beverages, including high-pressure processed juices, drinking vinegars, and kombucha. At the helm since 2012, Church has guided Suja's remarkable ascent as the leading brand in a highly competitive cold-pressed juice category and was instrumental in its partnership with the Coca-Cola Co., which in 2015 acquired a 30 percent stake in the company. Recorded at Suja's vast production facility in San Diego, Church opined on the role of luck in business, why a thorough understanding of consumer demand is critical to success, and explained how "the rule of twos" helped steer the company through its growth and development. Also included in this episode: BevNET assistant editor Marty Caballero and senior brand specialist Jon Landis examined the emerging market for kefir and discussed key brands, sub-segments, including water kefir and plant-based varieties, consumer confusion, and recent controversy regarding its definition. The episode also includes the latest edition of Elevator Talk, with featured guest Bronya Shillo, the founder of spiked lemonade brand Fishers Island Lemonade. Show notes:

This week's episode of Taste Radio features a wide-ranging conversation with Krave Jerky and Sonoma Brands founder Jon Sebastiani. Recorded at the 2017 Summer Fancy Food Show, Sebastiani delved into his background in the food and beverage industry as an heir to a legacy wine family and talked about what spurred him to strike out on his own with Krave. He reflected on the meteoric growth of the meat snack brand, which launched in 2009 and was acquired by The Hershey Co. in 2015 for $240 million, and how he used the proceeds to create Sonoma Brands, a CPG incubator and venture fund that develops and partners with innovative food and beverage brands. Also included in the episode: an interview with veteran marketing executive Greg Fleishman, who is the CEO and co-founder of boutique marketing firm Purely Righteous Brands. Having worked with a range of innovative brands in his 20-year career, including Fuze, Bear Naked, Kashi and Suja, Fleishman opined on why successful entrepreneurs always have a "hunger and humility to learn." He also discussed why consumers are becoming more attuned to sustainable farming practices and "food justice" and shared his perspective on the potential for cannabis-based CPG products. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we speak with Julie Ndjee, co-founder/EVP of Neilly's Foods, an upstart maker and distributor of healthy and natural cuisine featuring flavors of Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. Show Notes: 0:44: Intro to the episode and hosts Ray Latif, John Craven, Jon Landis and Mike Schneider, who chat about which drinks and snacks in the office attract the most interest and why and which ones get the cold shoulder. Mike talks about the appeal of trying new brands and line extensions while Jon offers his take on the elements of effective packaging and branding. John explains why approachability and easily understood beverages often win in the office and Ray discusses the advantage of nutritious, low-calorie and low-sugar formulations. 8:36: Interview -- Ray and John sit down with Jon Sebastiani, the founder of Krave Jerky and founder and CEO of CPG incubator and venture fund of Sonoma Brands. Sebastiani talks about working as part of his family's wine business and decision to launch Krave; the emergence of premium meat snacks and what's next for the category; how Sonoma's team of former operators offers a competitive edge/advantage to other venture capital funds. 37:42: Interview -- John speaks with Greg Fleishman, a 20-year marketing executive who is currently the co-founder and CEO of Purely Righteous Brands LLC, which is a boutique consultancy dedicated to fostering the growth of "green space" health food & beverage companies. 1:01:35: Elevator Talk -- Meet Julie Ndjee, the co-founder and EVP of Neilly's, a maker and distributor of healthy and natural cuisine from around the world. Brands in this episode: Krave Jerky, Zupa Noma, Dang Foods, SmashMallow, Fuze, Bear Naked, Kashi, Temple Turmeric, Suja, Foodstirs, Sambazon, Neilly's For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions contact [email protected].

This week's edition of Taste Radio features an interview with Jennie Ripps, the co-founder and CEO of Owl's Brew, a maker of tea-based cocktail mixers and tea-and-beer Radlers. In our conversation, Ripps spoke about the development of Owl's Brew, which has been at the forefront of the premium cocktail mixer category since its launch in 2013. She also discussed the company's relationship with Zx Ventures, the global incubation arm of Anheuser Busch, which is an investor in the brand, including how Owl's Brew evaluated the opportunity to work with a strategic partner and what Zx brings to the table beyond financial investment. Also included in this episode of the podcast: Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and BevNET senior brand specialist Jon Landis sat down with Pete Speranza, who is a New Business Development Principal with General Mills' business development and venture capital arm 301INC, to discuss the group's mission and its investments with emerging food and beverage brands. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we chat with Jason Petrou, the founder of organic energy drink brand Clean Energy Organics. Show Notes: 0:29: Intro to hosts -- Ray Latif, John Craven, Jon Landis and Mike Schneider. The show begins with a chat about recent travels and what we've been munching and sipping on of late. John talks about his West Coast trip and his kombucha consumption, Jon talks about how a donut brand is taking advantage of opportunities at Phish shows. Mike talks about Sap!, a line of carbonated maple and birch waters, and Ray chats about Oral IV shots. Ray suggests we try Ethan's apple cider vinegars shots live and in action. 6:37: Interview -- Ray and John sit down for a conversation with Jennie Ripps, the CEO and co-founder of Owl's Brew, a maker of tea-based cocktail mixers and radlers. Jennie spoke about the launch and development of her company and its recent partnership with Zx Ventures, the global incubation arm of Anheuser Busch. 28:40: Interview -- Jon and Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg speak with Pete Speranza, a New Business Development Principal with 301INC, which is the business development and venture capital arm of General Mills. Pete spoke about the mission of 301INC and some of its investments and work with emerging brands. 53:52: Elevator Talk -- Meet Jason Petrou, Founder of CEO Beverages, a line of low-sugar, low-calorie, coconut water-based, organic energy drinks. We caught up with Jason at BevNET Live Summer 2017 to hear about CEO's new flavors and what he is geeking out on within the beverage industry. Brands in this episode: Revive Kombucha, Health-Ade Kombucha, Boochcraft, Kombucha Dog, Suja, Owl's Brew, Sap!, Oral I.V., Ethan's, Tio Gazpacho, CEO Beverages For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions contact [email protected].

On this week's episode of Taste Radio, Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and BevNET's Jon Landis are joined by Scott Norton, founder of natural condiment brand Sir Kensington's. Fueled by a mission to create "condiments with character," the New York-based company, which was acquired by food and consumer product giant Unilever in April, is using a commitment to clean ingredients and responsible sourcing to reshape how consumers think about ketchup, mayonnaise and the entire condiment category. In our conversation, Norton discusses the company's "inside-out" approach to marketing, how a strong company culture can bring tangible business results, and how a shared sense of responsibility to consumers has strengthened the company's new relationship with Unilever. Also in this episode, Brewbound assistant editor Justin Kendall and BevNET managing editor Ray Latif talk with John Reardon, founder and CEO of Deep Ellum Brewing; and Gwen Burlingame, founder of lactose-free ice cream brand Minus the Moo, is our next guest on Elevator Talk. Show Notes: :00 Intro hosts: Mike Schneider, Jon Landis Mike and Landis contemplate doing "Phishcast" with Ray and John out of the office, but quickly jump into "What are you eating?". :32 "What Are You Eating?" Jon and Mike discuss doing one thing well with Brooklyn Brine as the example. They also discuss a new flavor of Soylent. 6:00 Interview Jon Landis, Carol Ortenberg interview Scott Norton, Co-Founder, Sir Kensington's who talks about the roots of Sir Kensington's, how they are planning to growth of the brand, their distribution channels and how they connect with their audiences. 35:57 Interview Ray Latif and Justin Kendall of Brewbound interview John Reardon, Founder & CEO, Deep Ellum Brewing at Brewbound Session. Deep Ellum Brewing Company is in Dallas, Texas and has grown steadily since opening in 2011 and is now the fifth largest regional craft brewery in Texas, according to the Brewers Association. John talks about maturing from "chasing the cool factor" to brewing as a supplier, pacing to 45,000 barrels, diversifying the offering by adding spirits, fighting to make Texas craft-friendly and chasing your passion. 1:03:00 Elevator Talk with Gwen Burlingame, Founder, Minus the Moo Lactose-free ice cream? Sign us up. Brands in this episode: Sir Kensington's, Brooklyn Brine, Soylent, Deep Ellum Brewing, Minus the Moo For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions contact [email protected]

On this week's episode of Taste Radio, BevNET CEO John Craven joins Brewbound editor Chris Furnari for a conversation with Andy Thomas, CEO of the Craft Brew Alliance. As the head of one of the largest craft beer companies in the U.S., Thomas oversees a portfolio that includes Kona, Widmer, Redhook and others. During his segment, Thomas shares insight into topics such as the commercial evolution of the category, the importance of being patient with innovations (and where to find the inspiration to fuel them), and how the proliferation of small craft breweries is challenging companies to cultivate stronger, more unique brand identities. Also in this episode: BevNET staff writer Brad Avery asks: "why is this a thing?" of the colonial-era fermented drink switchel; an interview with author and cook Michael Ruhlman; and another edition of Elevator Talk, with featured guest L.A. McCrae, founder and chief visionary officer of North Carolina-based Black Star Line Brewing. Editor's note: In the midst of recording Thomas' interview during last month's Brewbound Session in New York City, we mistakenly referred to Craft Brew Alliance as the "second-largest publicly traded beer company in the U.S." We of course meant the second-largest craft beer company" and blame the welcome reception beers for our gaffe.

This week's episode of the Taste Radio podcast includes a feature conversation with Alex Galindez, the CEO of Runa, a maker of guayusa-based teas and energy drinks driven by social and environmental causes. Galindez, a veteran marketing executive in the food, beverage and media industries, discussed how she's drawing on strategies and lessons from past roles to elevate communication of Runa's social mission and brand story to a broader audience. Also in this episode: members of the BevNET and Project NOSH team chatted about the most interesting or unique food or beverage that they saw at the recently held 2017 Summer Fancy Food Show; an interview with B. Bonin Bough, the host of CNBC's "Cleveland Hustles" and a digital and social media expert who spearheaded roles in each discipline with PepsiCo and Mondelez; and the latest edition of Elevator Talk, featuring Tickle Water founder and CEO Heather McDowell.

For this week's episode of the Taste Radio podcast, we're bringing you an Independence Day-length conversation with Gary Hirshberg, the co-founder and chairman of dairy company Stonyfield Farm and a highly influential figure in the organic food movement. Hirshberg shares war stories ranging from the company's pastoral beginnings, to its decade-long struggle for financing, and on to its eventual sale, mining them for wisdom that will resonate with any food and beverage professional. Also included in this episode: the latest edition of Elevator Talk, in which we profile Elaine Morrison, the founder of collagen elixir brand Eviva.

In short, the life of Todd Carmichael can be defined by his zealous thirst for adventure and his unbridled passion for coffee. Brevity, however, doesn't quite capture the scope of Carmichael's incredible journey as the co-founder and CEO of super-premium coffee company La Colombe. His story is deserving of ample time, and in an interview for the Taste Radio podcast, we sat down with Carmichael for an extensive conversation on everything from his origins in the coffee business and vision for La Colombe, to his former role as the young personal attache to a Saudi prince and his record-breaking trek across Antarctica. Also included in this episode of the podcast: a segment with BevNET editor-in-chief Jeffrey Klineman examining Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods and potential ramifications of the deal; an interview with Andy Ellwood, the president of Basket, a shopping app that uses crowdsourced data to help consumers find the best prices on grocery items; and the latest edition of Elevator Talk with Venessa Dobson, founder of artisanal popcorn brand Pop Art Snacks.

KeVita co-founder and former CEO Bill Moses is keeping busy. In the seven months since PepsiCo's acquisition of KeVita, a maker of probiotic drinks and kombucha, Moses has been actively investing in and advising a range of early-stage food and beverage companies. This edition of the Taste Radio podcast features an interview with Moses, who discussed the key elements of his investment philosophy and his work with upstart brands, including Koia and ChiaViva. Recorded at the NOSH Live Summer 2017 conference, held earlier this week in New York City, Moses also reflected the growth and development of KeVita and the trials and tribulations of being a beverage entrepreneur. This week's episode also includes a breakdown of notable news, trends, innovation and new products discussed at NOSH Live and BevNET Live Summer 2017, which was held on Tuesday and Wednesday, and the latest edition of Elevator Talk.

Over his three decades as an executive and consultant in the natural products industry, Bob Burke has been recognized as one of the foremost experts in the space. This episode of the BevNET Podcast features a wide-ranging conversation with Burke, whose career includes 11 years in sales and marketing at organic dairy giant Stonyfield Farm and nearly 20 years as an advisor to early-stage and entrepreneurial food and beverage companies. Along with a discussion about the evolution of the natural foods industry and its transformative impact on the grocery business, Burke shared his thoughts on the keys to success for startups and how he defines truly innovative ideas. The episode also includes a recap of the Sweets and Snacks Expo, which was held last week in Chicago, and a chat with Nico Enriquez, the co-founder of alcoholic ginger beer brand Farmer Willie's, who joined us for the latest edition of "Elevator Talk."

In this episode of the BevNET Podcast, we sat down with Mark Mahoney, the co-founder and CEO of premium cocktail mixer brand Powell & Mahoney, who joined us for a discussion about his background as a beverage entrepreneur, the rapid development of the premium mixer space and what's next for the thriving category. This episode also includes a segment with BevNET editor-in-chief Jeffrey Klineman, who examined recent investment deals in the food and beverage industry, including First Beverage Ventures' investment in a mezcal company, Castanea Partners' acquisition of a majority stake in craft brewery The Bruery and a new round of funding for fast-growing snack brand Hippeas, one that included actor Leonardo DiCaprio. We also spoke with Loco Coffee Co. co-founder Dan Bresciani for the latest edition of "Elevator Talk."

Earlier this month, BevNET CEO John Craven met with Juice Press founder Marcus Antebi and chairman Michael Karsch at the cold-pressed juice chain's Long Island City headquarters and production facility, where the trio recorded a wide-ranging interview for this episode of the BevNET Podcast. Antebi, who launched Juice Press in 2010 and now presides over a chain of 62 stores across the Northeast, explained his belief that "common innovation is complete" and that it's incumbent upon food and beverage manufacturers to up the ante with nutrient-dense ingredients and formulations. That mindset is the overarching mantra at Juice Press and the driver of its business and innovation philosophy ("we're constantly reinventing the wheel," Antebi said), which he and Karsch discussed in detail. Also included in this episode: the debut of a new, regular segment called "Why is This a Thing?" in which we examine emerging trends in the food and beverage industry. In this edition, BevNET senior brand specialist Jon Landis and staff reporter Brad Avery discussed the Soylent phenomenon. From its science fiction aesthetic to its post-food philosophy, Landis and Avery broke down how the meal replacement company used a Silicon Valley mindset to turn a routine functional product into an offbeat, cult lifestyle brand with a dedicated audience. This podcast also includes the latest "Elevator Talk" segment, which profiled Caroline Huffstetler, the founder of nut milk brand Nutty Life.

Tim Sperry spent nearly 25 years as an executive at Whole Foods and was a key figure in the company's ascent from a small grocery chain to a household name and natural foods powerhouse. Eleven years removed from his role as the company's director of grocery, Sperry is concerned that Whole Foods' merchandising prowess and brand identity have fallen into neglect -- and he's not alone. The retailer has lost some of its luster with customers, suppliers and investors, and the news is filled with talk of a shakeup of the company's business strategy or an outright takeover. In this episode of the BevNET Podcast, Sperry, along with Carol Ortenberg, the editor of BevNET sister site Project NOSH, discussed Whole Foods' efforts to revitalize its brand and assuage key investors in light of its announcement of changes to its board of directors, category management, and the launch of a loyalty program. Sperry and Ortenberg offered their take on what the changes could mean for food and beverage suppliers and whether Whole Foods will continue to be a critical launching pad for innovative brands and their products. Also included in this episode: the debut of a new, regular segment called "Trendspotter," in which we discuss timely news topics and recent headlines about the food and beverage industry. The inaugural segment includes a discussion about soda tax legislation across the U.S. and how a debate about the fermentation process and health benefits of kombucha is shaping that category. We also met up with Justine Monsul, the co-founder of juice shot brand Monfefo, who joined us for an edition of "Elevator Talk."

In an interview recorded for this edition of the BevNET Podcast, we sat down with Gigi Lee Chang, the managing director of cause-oriented food business accelerator FoodFutureCo. Chang, who also founded baby food brand Plum Organics, explained FoodFutureCo's work in advising and supporting early- and mid-stage food and beverage companies, particularly those that are providing unique products and solutions for the food system. Chang also offered her perspective on how the opportunities and challenges for food entrepreneurs have evolved since Plum launched in 2005. Also included in this episode of the podcast: the first edition of "Elevator Talk," a new series in which we chat with early-stage brand owners about their products and their communities.

In this episode of the podcast, BevNET's John Craven and Jeff Klineman discussed some of the big stories in the food and beverage business, including tough press for Juicero, operational issues for brands like Soylent and Reed's, and the ways the largest, publicly-traded food and beverage companies are attempting to refresh their lineups through transactions -- and through change at the top. Also included in this edition of the podcast: a chat on packaging trends and innovation with Zuckerman Honickman executives Michael Zuckerman and Adam Dorfman, and a "What are you drinking?" segment with BevNET's director of sales, John McKenna, and senior sales executive Adam Stern.

Livio Bisterzo thinks millennials are the new hippies. And he's got just the snack for them. A longtime entrepreneur, Bisterzo is the founder and CEO of Green Park Brands, a self-described "food innovation company" based in Los Angeles. Approximately 18 months ago, the company launched its first brand, Hippeas, a line of organic chickpea puffs available in six varieties. The vegan snacks are high in fiber and protein and sold in wide range of natural and conventional grocery retailers; they're also carried nationally at Starbucks cafes. In a recent interview recorded for this edition of the BevNET podcast, Bisterzo credited the early distribution success of Hippeas to branding that's less about the functional attributes of the snacks and more about reaching a broad base of consumers. "Too many companies and too many entrepreneurs just focus on selling the functionality of the product, and I think that will only take you [so] far," Bisterzo said. "It's really just about creating a brand world that you can then take to the consumer, to your stakeholders, to your customers, and you can bring everybody along for the ride." Listen to our interview with Bisterzo in which he discusses more about Green Park's branding philosophy, including his belief that the ecosystem of the food and beverage industry is moving away from "branding based on an entrepreneur's background and experience," why upstart companies are attracting top marketing talent from CPG conglomerates and why similarities between millennials and the hippie generation matter. Also in this episode of the podcast: a conversation with BevNET events director Ashley Harding and the company's "Italian army knife" Anthony Ferranti. The discussion includes their favorite drinks of the moment and how each is preparing for the upcoming BevNET Live, NOSH Live and Brewbound Session conferences, all of which will be held in New York City in June.

Last week IRI, a global market research firm based in Chicago, held its annual "Growth Summit," a three-day conference designed to help CPG manufacturers, retailers and media industry executives understand the opportunities and challenges presented by big data. The event, held in Nashville's Opryland district, included a range of educational and strategy-oriented sessions on cross-category dynamics, fragmented media, consumer personalization, digital marketing and e-commerce. Amid the sprawling conference, which was attended by executives from across the CPG spectrum, BevNET sat down with IRI CEO and president Andrew Appel and recorded an interview for this edition of the podcast. Appel discussed IRI's efforts to detangle and optimize an ever-evolving and complex web of sales and consumer data, noting that that there will be a "43X increase in annual data by 2020.". He also explained why he believes that "voice is the next platform" for data collection, and shared his thoughts on nascent efforts to personalize food around individual DNA and why IRI is to expanding its use of artificial intelligence to "automate away the simple." Also included in this edition of the podcast: a "What are you drinking?" segment with BevNET's two "Young Turk" reporters, Marty Caballero and Brad Avery, and a chat with Glenfiddich brand ambassador Allan Roth, who spoke about the single-malt scotch brand's innovation pipeline.

Adam Melonas has a pretty simple mission: he wants you to eat tasty, healthy snacks. The Australian-born chef and entrepreneur is the founder and CEO of Chew LLC, a Boston-based food incubator focused on recreating legacy snack brands. Melonas said the products are being renovated from "the ground up, inventing new processes to make them more nutritious and delicious every time." BevNET recently visited Chew's new innovation lab in Boston's Fenway neighborhood where we recorded a wide-ranging interview about the launch and development of Chew for this edition of the BevNET Podcast. Surrounded by a shimmering kitchen outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, Melonas explained how his experience as a high-end chef and later as the founder of Unreal, a maker of premium candy made with no artificial ingredients, molded his vision to "democratize" better-for-you snacks. He also discussed his belief that marketing should always be a secondary focus when it comes to new product development, and shared some of Chew's internal innovation strategy, including plans to launch a series of new brands. Also in this week's podcast: revisiting our "Cold Brew on Fleek" episode and how the cold brew coffee category has evolved in recent months.

Mining trends at the recently held Natural Products Expo West 2017, Howard Telford, a senior beverages analyst with market research firm Euromonitor, said he saw the event as the embodiment of the health and wellness movement that has reshaped the beverage industry in recent years. In an interview recorded for this edition of the BevNET Podcast, Telford shared his thoughts on pertinent trends affecting new product development as viewed at Expo West and beyond. Telford, who is an expert on the global soft drink market, explained that concerns over added sugars are changing the ways companies are formulating new and existing beverages internationally as well as in the U.S. This week's podcast also includes a conversation with Michel Boissy, the CEO and co-founder of cold-pressed juice company FreshBev, the manufacturer of the Ripe brand of juices and cocktail mixers. Having completing a $4 million funding round in May 2016, FreshBev made significant upgrades to its production facility, including new filling lines for its innovative multi-serve bag-in-box and "barrel bag" pouch packages.. Meanwhile, the company expanded its sales and operations teams and recently revamped Ripe's branding. With key pieces in place, Boissy discussed why -- despite slowing sales in the cold-pressed juice category -- FreshBev is prepared for "explosive growth in the next several years." Also in this episode: a roundtable discussion with BevNET's illustrious design team and the beverages that are currently in favor with the talented quartet.

Zak Normandin is a determinedly practical entrepreneur. As a new father, he was concerned that there were few companies selling organic foods for babies and toddlers. So he created his own: Little Duck Organics, a maker of USDA organic snacks. A few years after its launch, he sold the company. Although he had been successful in the food business, he wasn't satisfied with traditional distribution models. Seeing an opportunity to sell direct-to-consumer, two years ago Normandin launched Dirty Lemon, a brand of functional drinks that are sold via a text message-based ordering platform. Thomas Perez has similar views when it comes to disruptive business concepts. The CEO of Alpha Dominche, a manufacturer of ultra high-end coffee and tea brewing machines for cafes, Perez felt that consumers would benefit from learning about how the company's equipment works and what separates it from traditional devices and brewing methods. He built Extraction Lab, a sprawling space in Brooklyn's Industry City neighborhood, to educate consumers about the company's innovative Steampunk single-cup brewing machines. Part cafe, part showroom, the store gives customers an up-close-and-personal view of how these tech-heavy brewing machines operate. Included in this edition of the BevNET Podcast are interviews with both Normandin and Perez, exploring how outside-the-box thinking shaped their respective companies. Also in this episode: a chat with BevNET's new CMO, Mike Schneider, one that includes his favorite product discoveries as an attendee of Natural Products Expo West 2017.

As the founder and CEO of Bulletproof Nutrition, Dave Asprey presides over a company dedicated to hacking human biology through nutrient-dense food and beverages. A former tech entrepreneur in Silicon Valley, Asprey first came to fame as the creator of Bulletproof coffee, a blend of hot coffee, butter from grass-fed cows and coconut oil. The recipe won acclaim for its purported benefits of weight loss and improved brain function, and Asprey has since built Bulletproof into a multi-pronged brand, anchored by a thriving website that sells ingredients, supplements and snacks direct-to-consumer. In an interview recorded at Natural Products Expo West 2017, Asprey discussed his role as an evangelist for bio-hacking foods and his vision for mainstreaming the concept. He also delved into Bulletproof's sales platform, which includes its e-commerce site, a growing chain of cafes and wholesale business, and its current funding round. Finally, Asprey shared his take on Bulletproof-style RTD beverages coming to market and what it means for the company's upcoming launch of its own RTD coffee. Also included in this podcast: a conversation with Ito En North America COO Jim Hoagland about surging consumer interest in matcha and the company's leadership position in the space.

In this edition of the BevNET Podcast, we're joined by prominent food and beverage attorney Nick Giannuzzi. The founder and managing partner of the The Giannuzzi Group, he has for over a decade provided legal representation to hundreds of small to mid-sized CPG companies and been involved in the biggest M&A deals in the space, including the sale of vitaminwater to The Coca-Cola Co., Krave Jerky to The Hershey Co. and KeVita to PepsiCo. Our conversation with Giannuzzi includes his take on how has the landscape for M&A in food and beverage has evolved in recent years, how he advises clients on being disciplined in their growth strategies and how entrepreneurs best align themselves with investors that share similar values and goals. Giannuzzi also discussed the current climate for investment (entrepreneurs would be wise to conduct a heat check, he noted) and competition for clients within the legal community. Also included in this podcast: a check-in with Honest Tea co-founder Seth Goldman on the brand recent revamp of its Honest Sport line and talking points on the Bai and KeVita deals, and a quick chat with Josh Wand, the founder of food and beverage staffing and recruiting agency Force Brands.

Kevin Klock, the president and CEO of Talking Rain, believes that while timing and some luck played a role in the remarkable success of Sparkling Ice, execution is the primary reason that it's currently a $600 million brand at retail. A focused business strategy and the development of a national DSD network and seasoned sales organization helped position Sparkling Ice for eye-popping sales growth -- 6,000 percent since 2010. But Klock, who joined Talking Rain in 2006 and took the helm four years later, isn't ready to take a victory lap; instead, he sees the brand as ready for a running mate, or two. As part of a wide-ranging interview recorded for this edition of the BevNET Podcast, Klock discussed why the company is now looking at opportunities to acquire brands and how it's evaluating potential deals in the U.S. and abroad. Talking Rain is also keen on innovating internally, he said, and bolstering branding efforts for Sparkling Ice, having recently launched a $37 million marketing campaign titled "Be Not Bland." Our conversation also included Klock's take on so-called "soda tax" initiatives, some of which affect Sparkling Ice -- despite its zero-calorie and zero-sugar formulation -- and his view that the "villainization" of artificial ingredients has slowed to a halt. Also included in this podcast: a segment on libations currently in favor with the team at BevNET's San Diego office.

In this edition of the BevNET Podcast, we're joined by Michael Schwartz, the co-founder and managing partner of Organic Food Incubator, a shared production facility and resource center for early-stage food and beverage companies. In our conversation with Schwartz, who is also the founder of BAO, a brand of fermented foods and drinks, we delved into the current landscape for start-up brands in metro New York, and discuss top-of-mind ingredient and formulations embraced by entrepreneurs in the region. Schwartz also shared his take on effective sales, retail and distribution strategies for new brand owners, including why "you're your own best salesman." Also part of this week's podcast: a discussion about the surge in protein-infused foods and beverages, including what's trending in the space and why.

Big Geyser, the largest independent beverage distributor in metro New York, has played a critical role in the development of some of the most successful entrepreneurial beverage brands in recent years, including vitaminwater, Zico and Honest Tea. Jerry Reda, the company's COO, oversees a distribution network that includes over 25,000 retail accounts -- and navigating the day-to-day challenges as Big Geyser's trucks traverse the tri-state area brings an extra level of headache to the gig. In the city that never sleeps, it's a 24/7 job, but Reda, who we recently interviewed for this edition of the BevNET Podcast, says that he wakes up every day and loves what he does. Listen to our complete interview with Reda, who joined us along with another stalwart of the New York beverage scene, BevNET Magazine publisher Barry Nathanson. The conversation included a discussion on how the New York market has evolved, Big Geyser's role in the development of vitaminwater (and why the company ultimately parted ways with the brand), current trends ("We are extremely bullish on bottled water," Reda said), how it evaluates new business opportunities, and the qualities of entrepreneurs that make it big. Also as part of this week's podcast: a discussion about the growing relevance of taprooms for craft breweries, and a recap of the recently held KombuchaKon 2017 event.

Mike Repole, the co-founder of BodyArmor, is unsatisfied. Why? Because BodyArmor, despite its impressive growth in recent years, is not the world's top-selling sports drink brand. Repole, who also co-founded vitaminwater and is a horse-racing magnate and billionaire, clearly does not lack ambition. As part of a wide-ranging interview recorded for this edition of the BevNET Podcast, Repole, who joined BodyArmor as a co-founder through an investment in the brand in 2012, said that despite Gatorade's longstanding domination of the sports drink category, he believes the giant can be knocked off its pedestal. And for BodyArmor to replace it would be the truest representation of success. "We're not here for bronze medals," Repole said. "It's gold or nothing." Listen to our full conversation with Repole, recorded at BodyArmor's offices in Queens, which included details about his roots as a beverage entrepreneur, his view on how the beverage industry has evolved since the sale of vitaminwater, and why he thinks that "in five years, there will only be two sports drink [brands], and BodyArmor will be one of them." Repole also explained why today's beverage brands need to frame added sugar as a functional attribute: "you're not going to get away with sugar for taste and refreshment," he said. Also as part of this week's podcast, we discuss beverage companies that advertised during the Super Bowl -- and how effectively they were able to get their messages out to the audience.

Last week, the podcast team visited the Boston offices of Bevi, a high-tech water cooler that customizes still and sparkling water with unsweetened, zero-calorie, or organically sweetened natural flavors. We spoke with Bevi co-founder and CEO Sean Grundy about the internet-connected machines, which are placed in corporate clients, health gyms and hotels, and provide real-time data to the company about usage and service needs. Grundy also discussed the company's mission "to make the bottled beverage supply chain more environmentally friendly" by reducing use and consumption of packaged water products. This week's podcast also includes a conversation about the 2017 Winter Fancy Food Show, including a look at how the specialty food convention has evolved in recent years and become a forum to showcase innovation, something that bodes well for the convention and industry as a whole.

In the past two years, crowd investing firm CircleUp has morphed from solely a platform for investors to fund innovative, early-stage consumer brands into one that is also an investor itself. Last week the podcast team visited CircleUp's San Francisco office to speak with Ben Lee, the managing director of CircleUp Funds, the company's investment arm. We sat down with him to discuss the ways in which CircleUp aims to support early-stage fundraising for beverage entrepreneurs. Lee, who has overseen evaluation of thousands of early-stage consumer product companies, was previously the company's director of business development. From that perspective, he talked about what trends in beverage are proving especially important to investors, and why CircleUp's purview has increased so that it no longer describes itself as a "crowdfunding" platform.

BevNET's podcast team recently visited with Mike Burgmaier, the co-founder and managing director of Whipstitch Capital, an investment bank that provides mergers and acquisitions and private placement advisory services to consumer products companies. In this edition of the podcast, Burgmaier, who's worked with several fast-growing and high-profile beverage brands, including Essentia, Spindrift and KeVita, discussed the current climate for CPG financing, competition for investment dollars and what he views as the key attributes for successful brands.

Year two of the BevNET Podcast begins with a discussion on trends to watch in the worlds of non-alcoholic beverages, craft beer and natural foods. In this edition, the podcast team is joined by BevNET editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and the editors of BevNET's sister sites, Brewbound's Chris Furnari and Project NOSH's Carol Ortenberg, each of whom offered their take on the most pertinent trends and issues within the industries they cover.

It took us a couple of weeks to recover from the biggest BevNET Live conference yet, but in this edition of the podcast, we reflected on the three-day event, which was held from Dec. 4-6 in Santa Monica, Calif. With over 600 attendees and more than 150 beverage brands represented at the show, BevNET Live Winter 2016 showcased the breadth of cutting-edge trends and innovative beverage concepts, including many that appeared on the main stage during New Beverage Showdown 12. We discussed some of these nascent trends and their potential for mainstream adoption. We also examined the traction of well-capitalized ideas like high-tech cold-pressed juicing system Juicero and Ripple, a line of pea protein-infused, plant-based milks, whose founders presented at BevNET Live.

In this edition of the BevNET Podcast, the team is joined by Grant Prentice, the vice president of strategic insights for FoodMinds, a food nutrition communications and consulting firm. FoodMinds advises food and beverage clients on ways to enhance business and marketing efforts through scientific research and public policy efforts. Prentice and FoodMinds this year completed research and insights work on behalf of the Can Manufacturers Institute and as part of our discussion, he revealed and explained findings on how packaging can impact beverage drinkers' experiences and reinforce or complement beverage brand equities.

Greg Steltenpohl, the CEO of Califia Farms and a beverage entrepreneur for nearly four decades, is constantly thinking about innovation. For Steltenpohl, who cut his teeth in the beverage business in 1980 with the launch of super-premium juice brand Odwalla, meeting the evolving needs of a growing base of young, educated and health-conscious consumers has made new product development a cornerstone focus for Califia. Since launching in 2010 the company has embraced several fast-growing beverage trends, including dairy alternatives and cold brew coffee, and introduced a steady stream of new brand and line extensions. But Steltenpohl is pushing for more. The podcast team recently met with Steltenpohl at Califia Farms headquarters in downtown Los Angeles, and as part of a wide-ranging discussion he offered insight into how the company identifies opportunities to innovate and executes from concept to product launch. Steltenpohl also discussed the role of package design and technology and predicts how each will evolve in the coming years, particularly as it relates to consumer education and marketing. Additionally, Steltenpohl revealed Califia's plans to launch a line of organic products as part of its overall innovation philosophy.

The career of Danny Stepper, a co-founder of beverage incubator L.A. Libations, is one that comes with lot of stories -- and he's happy to tell them. BevNET's podcast team recently sat down with Stepper in his office at Relativity Media headquarters in Beverly Hills, which is a long way from his early days stocking beverage coolers for the Coca-Cola Co. Stepper worked his way into a variety of sales roles at Coke, building relationships that became the foundation for L.A. Libations' role as an incubator, guiding brands to placement at leading retailers in a variety of channels. Stepper shares his journey, which includes a surprising turn as a movie producer, with us in a podcast that details how the trials and tribulations of a beverage executive are as enthralling as they are maddening.