The Startup CPG Podcast Startup CPG

Join Grace Kennedy as she delves into the world of healthy vegetarian delights with Aman Blana, the founder of Growee Foods, in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast. Aman shares the journey behind Growee Foods, inspired by his Indian heritage and a quest for fresh, plant-based options in the US. From battling the challenges of working with co-packers to navigating distribution channels, Aman reveals how mentor communities like Startup CPG have been pivotal in guiding his path.

Discover Aman's innovative marketing strategies, including engaging farmers market demos and strategic brand collaborations. Learn how Growee Foods leverages email marketing and region-focused ads to drive sales growth on a bootstrap budget, all while prioritizing quality and taste above everything else.

What’s more, get a sneak peek into upcoming spicy flavors and product lines that will leave you salivating.

Tune in now and embark on a flavorful adventure with Growee Foods!
Listen in as Aman shares about:
Founder StoryChallenges in Starting UpMarketing Strategies Employed by Growee FoodsDistribution and Growth StrategyChallenges as a FounderPost-Expo West Follow-UpGrowee Foods Product DevelopmentMotivation and Community SupportAdvice for New EntrepreneursGrowee Foods AvailabilityEpisode Links:
Growee Foods Website
Aman Blana’s LinkedIn
Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to www.hummingbirds.comThis episode was sponsored by Simply Depo. Go to www.simplydepo.com
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, join Daniel Scharff as he dives into the world of foodservice with Lizz Ingrassia and Allie Cotter of Fresh Time Market. Delving into their journey from restaurant dining to packaged retail meals, Liz and Allie share their expertise on the importance of flavor, customer-centricity, and understanding consumer needs in product selection. With foodservice comprising a significant portion of store sales, they discuss the role of branded and non branded items and much more.

Discover the challenges and triumphs of launching new products smoothly, working with suppliers, distribution strategies, and balancing labor issues with innovation. Learn valuable collaboration tips, including understanding store operations and 
delivering proposals aligned with customer expectations.

Tune in to gain actionable strategies for enhancing brand credibility, fostering successful partnerships, and creating memorable experiences for consumers!

Listen in as Lizz and Allie share about:
Vendor Relationship and NegotiationProduct Testing and Quality AssuranceInventory and Distribution PlanningMarketing and PromotionMonitoring and FeedbackSupport and Promotions for BrandsSampling Tool and Distribution StrategiesSuccessful Brand ExamplesContractual Issues and Operational EfficiencyFirst-to-Market AdvantageConsumer Shopping Behavior, Recalls, and Product IssuesThanks to our episode sponsor, SimplyDepo (simplydepo.com). SimplyDepo is a super sales and merchandising platform designed to help emerging brands win independent stores. Powered by the technology, they help you find potential customers, digitize all ordering and merchandising activities, and get all the store insights you need to scale your business. Get in touch at info@simplydepo.com or visit simplydepo.com and make sure to mention hearing this message on the Startup CPG Podcast
Episode Links:
Fresh Thyme Website
Allie’s LinkedInLizz’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
Episode music by Super Fantastics

Hummingbirds Link:
to find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit hummingbirds.com/startupCPG Simply Depo Link:
Improve your sales reps' efficiency for solid management support to scale your business, email info@simplydepo.com or visit simplydepo.com

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to www.hummingbirds.com
Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast together with Cory Hebert from Cin7 and Jamie Valenti-Jordan, CEO of Catapult Commercialization Services, as they illuminate the challenges faced by startups during product launches and emphasize the importance of accurate data entry to prevent financial losses and share invaluable insights on leveraging Inventory Management Systems (IMS) to streamline processes efficiently.

Discover practical strategies for reconciling orders with available inventory, optimizing payment terms, and managing cash flow challenges. Learn from real-world experiences and gain actionable advice on implementing efficient inventory management systems like Cin7 Core.
Cin7 is the market leader in Inventory Management for emerging brands. We have a Startup CPG EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT! 50% off the first 3 months of Cin7!
To register for a demo or start your free trial:
http://www.cin7.com/startupcpg

Don't miss out on this episode packed with expert advice and industry insights! Tune in now and take your inventory management to the next level!

Listen in as Cory and Jamie share about:
Initial Challenges Faced by StartupsExcel Limitations for Inventory ManagementProducts Compliance and SafetyAdvantages of Using IMS (Inventory Management Software)Starting a Business and IMS SubscriptionUser Experience and Critical Features of IMSOrder-to-Cash ProcessThe Difference between IMS and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)Challenges and Limitations of ERPOutsourcing Operations and Operational ChallengesInventory Management Tips
get.cin7.com
Inventory Management Software | Cin7
Cin7 is trusted by thousands of businesses to get their products to more customers, in more places, faster than ever before. Try our inventory management software today.

Episode Links:
Website: Cin7
LinkedIn: Cory H.
Website: Catapult Commercialization ServicesLinkedIn: Jamie Valenti-Jordan

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics
Simply Depo Link:
Improve your sales reps' efficiency for solid management support to scale your business, email info@simplydepo.com or visit simplydepo.com

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, originally recorded as a webinar, join Daniel Scharff together with Jonny Price and James Reina as they talk through community fundraising and crowdsourcing with Jonny from Wefunder and James Reina from Jibby Coffee who recently completed a raise.
Discover why community rounds matter, how to handle financial disclosures, and the smart way to tailor your fundraising approach. James shares real-world insights from a winning campaign, stressing the importance of doing your homework, building relationships, and engaging your audience effectively.
Learn how personalized messages can sway investors and why educating your audience is key to long-term success. Plus, find out how crowdfunding can be a game-changer for underrepresented founders and new investors alike.
They'll also demystify Wefunder's fees, advertising tactics, and how to maximize your exposure as you hit funding milestones. Ready to embark on a crowdfunding journey? Tune in now!
Startup CPG Community Members get a discount on Wefunder fees by using this link: http://wefunder.com/startupCPG/raise
Listen in as James and Jonny share about:
What is a Community RoundTypes of investorsMinimum Check Size and Investment VolumeWefunder's MissionInvestor-Founder ConnectionChanges in Startup Valuation TrendsSetting Fundraising GoalsAdvantages and Disadvantages of Crowdfunding.Concerns about Financial Disclosure and Due Diligence.Legal Requirements, Timeline, and Investment Structures.Campaign Strategy, including ‘Pre-Launch Preparation and Momentum-Building.Marketing Tactics used During the Campaign.Diversity and Inclusion in Fundraising
wefunder.com
Let your community invest | Wefunder, Home of the Community Round
Raise $50K to $5M+ from hundreds of customers, fans, and friends—all in one line on your cap table.
Episode Links:
Wefunder’s Website 
James’s LinkedIn
Jonny’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Rich Gillmore, the VP of Center Store at Gelson's. Together, they delve into the dynamic world of indie retail in Southern California and explore how Gelson's stands out as a trendsetter by curating innovative brands that embody the quintessential Californian lifestyle.

Rich shares valuable insights on prioritizing high-quality products, navigating the influx of brand invitations, and the delicate balance between data-driven analytics and instinctive choices for successful product launches. Learn about the importance of brand visibility and collaboration, and how platforms like LinkedIn play a crucial role in fostering connections and promoting innovation.

Whether you're an emerging brand looking to partner with Gelson's or a retail enthusiast keen on understanding the intricacies of the industry, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights.

Tune in now!

Listen in as Rich shares about:
Trends Noticed at Expo WestStrategies for Brands to Attract Retailers' Attention at ExposKeys to Rising Through the Ranks in the Grocery IndustryDescription of Gelson's Stores and Market PositioningDecision-Making for Product AssortmentChallenges with Limited Shelf SpaceBrand Outreach and the Role of Sampling in SalesConsumer Buying BehaviorLocal Brands and California LifestyleDecision-Making and Gut InstinctInvolvement in Industry OrganizationsInfluence on Tastes and PreferencesGelson's Future PlansEpisode Links:
Gelson’s Website
Rich’s LinkedIn
Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, join Grace Kennedy together with Lauryn Bodden, the founder of S’noods as they delve into the captivating origin story of S’noods, the innovative noodle chips taking the snack world by storm. 

Lauryn shares her journey from winning a Netflix cooking competition to launching her brand, securing partnerships with major retailers, and winning a coveted booth at Expo West 2025. 

Gain valuable insights about finding the right partners and overcoming obstacles in the competitive CPG industry as Lauryn navigated the challenges of product development, distribution, and fundraising as a solo founder. She also dives into the importance of community, feedback, and perseverance in building a successful brand.

Tune in now!
Listen in as Lauryn shares about:
Origins of S’noods and its conceptChallenges in product developmentDistribution strategies and future growthFunding and investor relationsWhere to buy S’noods and stay updatedMarket validation and adjustments made based on consumer responsesThe importance of community and advice for aspiring founders
Episode Links:
S’noods Website
Lauryn’s Instagram
Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics