Shows
High Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast#114 - What Comes Next for Hemp THC Beverages w/ Martín Caballero, Managing Editor at BevNET.comWe unpack the 365-day clock facing hemp-derived THC beverages, why the category exploded, and how a policy rider vaulted prohibition-style limits into law. Martín Caballero of BevNet joins us to map realistic paths forward, where coalition power lives, and what compromises might actually work.• why hemp-derived THC drinks resonated with mainstream shoppers• how a funding bill rider created the new 0.4 mg per package limit• why fragmented advocacy loses to unified, well-funded lobbies• lessons from retailers and distributors who want the shelf to stay• a pragmatic path: low-dose through three tiers, higher dose in cannabis...
2025-11-2153 min
Nombase PodcastThe In-Store Strategy That Helped Chomps Explode NationwideEver wonder how Chomps took over shelves across the country? Lauren Martin, Chomps' National Retail Activation Manager, reveals the in-store strategies that fueled their explosive growth. Find out how to earn more facings, prevent promo failures, build store-level trust, and adapt tactics by region and retailer. From merchandising wins to demo optimization, you'll hear tips and tricks that can help scale any brand.
2025-07-2244 min
CPG Week by BevNET & NoshUNFI's Cyber Crisis Aftermath & The Celebrity Podcaster To Bev Biz PipelineIn this episode: On this episode of the CPG Week podcast, BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero joins senior reporter Brad Avery to talk about the ongoing impact of the UNFI cyberattack, investment in podcast-backed beverage brands, the rebirth of co-packer Joriki Beverages and what's next for beer distributors after the Alani Nu acquisition. Show Highlights: 0:15 - CPG brands are starting to prepare for the implications of UNFI's cyberattack a few weeks ago. Brad discusses what Nosh has learned so far in talking with founders, stakeholders and experts. 1:30 - Marty describes t...
2025-07-0314 minCPG Week by BevNET & NoshUNFI's Cyber Crisis Aftermath & The Celebrity Podcaster To Bev Biz PipelineIn this episode: On this episode of the CPG Week podcast, BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero joins senior reporter Brad Avery to talk about the ongoing impact of the UNFI cyberattack, investment in podcast-backed beverage brands, the rebirth of co-packer Joriki Beverages and what's next for beer distributors after the Alani Nu acquisition. Show Highlights: 0:15 - CPG brands are starting to prepare for the implications of UNFI's cyberattack a few weeks ago. Brad discusses what Nosh has learned so far in talking with founders, stakeholders and experts. 1:30 - Marty describes t...
2025-07-0314 min
Nombase PodcastThe New Rules of Consumer Behavior Around Responsible CPG PackagingConsumers say they want sustainable packaging, but what do they actually care about, and how can brands deliver without tanking margins? Martin Caballero (BevNET), Simon Gainey (Hard Working Packaging), and Benjamin Puncher (Mintel) unpack it all, from the power of clear front-of-pack messaging to the value of recyclable materials and packaging that reinforces brand identity. They spotlight brands like Liquid Death, which prove that when sustainability is woven into the core story and executed in a way that feels authentic, it can drive consumer connection and strengthen the bottom line.
2025-04-2241 min
Brewbound PodcastAn Energy Drink M&A Crash Course In a very special crossover episode, BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero joins the Brewbound Podcast to break down the blockbuster Celsius/Alani Nu deal. Marty discusses what energy deals usually mean for the beer distributors that built the acquired brands, current trends in non-alc energy and functional drinks and what brewers can learn from the space. Then, Jess and Zoe get into recent beer news, including Brown-Forman's upcoming move to the Reyes network in California; proposed legislative changes in Georgia, Idaho and Maryland; and an upcoming departure from the Michigan craft scene (we miss you already, Carrie).
2025-02-2633 min
CPG Week by BevNET & NoshBoba Controversy, Ai Energy & NACS TakeawaysIn this episode: On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about a bubbling controversy in boba, Jack Owoc's return to energy and an update from this year's National Association of Convenience Stores' (NACS) yearly conference. This week, senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard were joined by BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero. The group starts the podcast talking about how actor Simu Liu sparked a viral conversation about cultural appropriation centered on bubble tea. The podcasters go on to chat about Jack Owoc's new caffeinated beverage Ai Energy. Marty goes on to discuss some o...
2024-10-2421 min
CPG Week by BevNET & NoshZombie Brands, Kellanova Rumors & Beverage Business UpdatesIn this episode: On this episode of CPG Week, the podcast team talks about "zombie brands," a rumored mega-merger of snacks and sweets, a recap of earnings, and another lawsuit for PRIME. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard are joined by BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero in a packed episode where they talk about the idea of zombie brands and how it relates to other CPG categories (and Steven Seagal movies?). The group also discusses a rumored acquisition of Kellanova brands by Mars and what this could mean for both f...
2024-08-0818 min
Taste Radio'Free' Advice: Empower Consumers With OptionalityHave non-alcoholic cocktail menus gone the way of the BlackBerry? Milan Martin thinks so, and he has good reason to believe it. Milan is the founder and CEO of The Free Spirits Company, a brand of hand-crafted, non-alcoholic spirits and RTD cocktails. Founded in 2020, the company markets zero-proof bourbon, gin, tequila, amaro and vermouth, along with a canned margarita and Kentucky mule. Milan's vision is not to replace spirits from consumers' drinking occasions, but to empower them – and bartenders – with the optionality to create no- or low-proof cocktails, depending on their mood and setting. Free Spiri...
2024-05-3144 min
Taste RadioJAJA's Social Strategy Is Subtle. And Highly Effective.How do you wield considerable social influence to authentically promote a consumer brand? That's the central question facing the five co-owners of JAJA Tequila, who collectively have nearly 40 million followers across several social media platforms. Self-described as "the first tequila created for the digital generation," JAJA was founded in 2018 by entrepreneurs Martin Hoffstein, Maurice Tebele and brother Elliot Tebele, the latter of whom is best known as the creator of popular Instagram meme account, @f__kjerry. JAJA is also co-owned by Alex Pall and Drew Taggart, who form globally renowned electronic DJ duo The Chainsmokers. Le...
2022-10-1830 min
Taste RadioCoffee With An NBA Superstar? It's An Experience. Plus, Maxi Advises On Exits.Jimmy Butler's prowess on the basketball court earned him the nickname "Jimmy Buckets." As he becomes more well known in the coffee industry, perhaps "Jimmy Barista'' will be just as fitting. A perennial NBA All-Star, Butler revealed himself as a coffee aficionado in 2020 when the league concluded its season in a "bubble" at the Disney World resort in Orlando. He stocked his hotel room with coffee equipment and began making and selling lattes, cortados, espressos and a variety of other coffee drinks to fellow NBA players and staff. But after the season concluded, it quickly...
2022-05-0630 min
Taste RadioGet A Leg 'Up' (And High) On The CompetitionIn this episode, Taste Radio's hosts discussed notable brands and products exhibited at the 2022 Specialty Coffee Association Expo, reflecting on how some cannabis-based drinks are finding favor as evening libations and riffed upon several striking snacks and beverages. The show also continues our spotlight on health-centric private equity firm Manna Tree Partners in an interview with managing director Pam Shepherd. Show notes: 0:56: Early Candidates For Products Of The Year? For FFUPs Sake, We're Heading Back To NYC. — Ray, Jacqui and BevNET managing editor Martin Caballero chatted about their respective Easter weekends, the best ballparks for gr...
2022-04-2252 min
Taste RadioJust How Big Are These Big Deals, Really?On the heels of the Coca-Cola Co.'s latest foray into alcoholic beverages, the Taste Radio team discussed the potential for Simply Spiked and assessed the mission and mechanics of a new industry group focused on promoting low-sugar, better-for-you CPG brands. They also reviewed major investment deals in the meat stick and hard kombucha categories and riffed on new and notable products, including a line of non-alcoholic aperitifs launched by musician Katy Perry. Show notes: 0:37: Deja Vu. Snap Into A… Chomps? Ice Cream On Everything – It's A Thing. – The hosts realized that they have a couple...
2022-01-2824 min
Taste RadioWe Have A Suggestion Or Two For 2022In Taste Radio's final episode of 2021, the hosts spoke about why entrepreneurs launching new and innovative concepts need to consider the addressable market for their brands and products in 2022. They also discussed the news that a high-profile kombucha company has leapt into the growing pool of probiotic sodas, a fast-growing snack brand's recent raise and a number of notable products that crossed their desks over the past week. Show notes: 0:37: Seltzers, Snacks And Scoops – The episode hosts, which included BevNET/NOSH reporter Adrianne DeLuca and BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero alongside Taste Radio regulars Ray...
2021-12-3124 min
Taste RadioStaying Current? It's All About A Convergence Of Convenience, Health And IndulgenceThis episode highlights notable news and new products from the perspective of Taste Radio hosts Ray Latif, Jacqui Brugliera and Mike Schneider, including an unusual cola collaboration, a groundbreaking law impacting CBD brands, flavor-driven innovation in overnight oatmeal, RTD cocktails and hummus. The show also includes updates on BevNET and NOSH's upcoming pitch competitions, a recap on beverage-related innovation, news and trends observed at the recently held 2021 NACS trade show and interviews with two entrepreneurs representing emerging brands: Cori Sue Morris, the founder and CEO of super-premium nut butter brand Retreat Foods and Susan Palmer, the founder and CEO...
2021-10-1557 min
Taste RadioThese Founders Are Upending The Status Quo... And Smiling Along The WayFour inspired founders. Four disruptive brands. Four stories about innovation, preparation and persistence. In this episode, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2021, Taste Radio editor Ray Latif sat down with four early-stage and emerging brand owners, including Emily Griffith, the founder and CEO of Lil Bucks, a brand of sprouted buckwheat snacks; Tyler Phillips, the founder and CEO of chickpea-based muffin company Hummii; Dyanna Salcedo, the co-founder and CEO of kids oatmeal brand Oats In Coats; and Bev Martin, the co-founder of Simply Ghee, a maker of grass-fed ghee products. The entrepreneurs reflected on their...
2021-10-0552 min
Taste RadioWhen Life Gave This CEO Lemonade, He Made MillionsAmid a sweltering summer, Calypso is having its moment in the sun. Self-described as the "originator of the flavored lemonade category," Calypso is in its 36th year in business and sells 20 varieties of its Lemonade, Limeade and Teamonade lines nationwide. Known for its tall 16 oz. glass bottles, Calypso markets its products as made with "real fruit, real sugar and real fruit bits" and "unique 'Taste of the Islands' flavor combinations." Over the past three years, Calypso has generated explosive revenue growth. The company reported a more than 50% sales increase during the first half of 2021, a l...
2021-08-2430 min
Taste Radio'Heir' To The Throne: How Pipsnacks Is Taking On The Giants, One Crunch At A TimeHow do you commercialize a concept that's centered around an esoteric ingredient? If you're the founders of Pipsnacks, a brand of heirloom corn-based snacks, you literally start small. Launched in 2012, Pipsnacks debuted with a line of miniature popcorn, the aptly named Pipcorn, which founders Teresa Tsou, Jeff Martin and Jennifer Martin promoted as a better tasting and healthier version of the traditional snack. The product became an instant hit in the company's home market of metro New York and later gained national recognition when it landed on Oprah Winfrey's coveted "Favorite Things" list, followed by an appearance o...
2021-08-1738 min
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 105: How To Disrupt An Industry? Consider A 'Tailored' Strategy.In this episode, we're joined by Stu Aaron and Martin Janousek, the co-founders of Bespoken Spirits, a modern distilling company which claims that it can precisely tailor spirits to a desired aroma, color and taste. Using proprietary technology, Bespoken's production process can be completed in a matter of days as opposed to traditional distilling and aging methods which typically take years. The company's business model is two-fold: Bespoken works with small- and mid-sized distillers to craft new products in an accelerated time frame, and also markets a line of branded products. In October, Bespoken also announced a $2.6...
2020-11-201h 04
Taste RadioEp. 206: This 'Sport Science' Guru Explains What It Takes To Win On And Off The FieldIf you've ever seen an episode of ESPN's "SportsCenter," chances are that John Brenkus is a familiar face. The Emmy award-winning host and producer of "Sport Science," a series that examines exceptional athletic performance through the lens of data and scientific research, Brenkus was recently announced as the Chief Brand Officer of natural energy drink brand Kill Cliff. According to the company, the role "will build upon the science in its products and elevate the brand among athletes and consumers." In an interview included in this episode, Brenkus, who is also the author of The New York Ti...
2020-03-2429 min
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 65: The News, Trends & Innovation That Shaped 2019This week, members of the BevNET and NOSH editorial teams joined us for a discussion of some of the major news stories, trends and topics affecting the food and beverage industry in 2019. Show notes: 0:57: Sustainable Shots, Inter-senal, Send News Now! -- The episode's hosts open the show with a chat about meeting Taste Radio fans at BevNET Live Winter 2019 and a brand revamp for ginger and turmeric juice brand Monfefo. They also munched on a cornucopia of gourmet cookies from Milk Bar, riffed on Marty's love for Italian soccer giant Inter Milan and explained why s...
2019-12-201h 08
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 58: The Path From Niche To MainstreamIn this episode, we're joined by Kelly Heekin and Ben Schmidt, the co-founders of premium hydration beverage brand Hoist, who discussed their strategy for mainstreaming a niche concept. Founded in 2009, Hoist was developed to be a more palatable version of Pedialyte, which in recent years has attracted a following among adults who use the products as rapid-hydration recovery drinks. Heekin and Schmidt said that while Hoist was ahead of its time, they were willing to be patient and wait for the market to catch up to the opportunity. "To be successful in this industry, you...
2019-11-0141 min
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 54: The 'Better' Way to Rethink Brand StrategyIn this episode, we're joined by Ashleigh and Trey Lockerbie, the co-founders of organic kombucha brand Better Booch, who joined us for a conversation about the good, the bad and the ugly of a brand revamp. In March, the Los Angeles-based company unveiled a new look designed to broaden its appeal and position itself as a more premium, craft offering. It wasn't, however, an overnight process; the Lockerbies spent nearly two years developing the new brand identity. Despite many frustrating moments, the work helped shaped a brand strategy that now serves as the foundation for Better Booch's...
2019-10-0451 min
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 42: The One Surprising Question Most Entrepreneurs Don't Ask ThemselvesIn his fourteenth year as an entrepreneur, Rick Field, the founder and CEO of premium pickle brand Rick's Picks, says he's always happy to share advice and insights on what it takes to make it in the food business. However, in an interview included in this episode, he noted that every meeting with a potential entrepreneur starts with one question that will determine the length of their conversation. "If you answer it 'yes,' we can talk for an hour," he said. "If you answer it 'no,' the interview is over and you'll know why. The...
2019-07-1238 min
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 23: How Successful Entrepreneurs Network, Use Equity & Partner With CelebsOver the course of his career, Ryan Lewendon, a partner with influential CPG law firm The Giannuzzi Group, has worked with hundreds of CPG brands, including Vitaminwater, Krave Jerky, Vita Coco and BodyArmor. His experience has provided him with a window into how successful entrepreneurs think and operate. In an interview included in this episode, Lewendon offered his perspective on the elements of a winning brand and what it takes to succeed. As part of our conversation, he discussed how to avoid some of the early mistakes that can haunt entrepreneurs down the line and the keys...
2019-03-0150 min
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 15: How To Win Over Venture Capitalists... And What They Don't Want to Hear In Your PitchLarry Kahn, a partner and managing director with private equity and venture capital firm Beechwood Capital, is not a fan of surprises. In his five years with Beechwood, Kahn has invested in a variety of entrepreneurial companies, including baby food brand Once Upon a Farm, chickpea pasta company Banza and fresh, organic food maker Urban Remedy. In an interview included in this episode, he stated that forthrightness about both successes and failures has been critical to Beechwood's relationships with the companies. "Surprises are the worst part of a relationship as you move forward," he said...
2019-01-0339 min
Taste RadioInsider Ep. 14: The Trends That May Shape 2019; A HotShot Takes on The Coffee BizWhat will 2019 hold for funding, innovation, and emerging categories in the food and non-alcoholic beverage industries? In this episode, BevNET and NOSH editors offered their predictions on how they see the business of food and beverage evolving over the next 12 months. Also in this episode: an interview with Danny Grossfeld, the founder of HotShot Coffee, a brand of canned coffees that are served hot. Grossfeld was inspired by a trip to Japan where warmed beverages are commonly sold in vending machines throughout the country. In our conversation, we discussed the opportunities and challenges in bringing an international...
2018-12-2849 min
Taste RadioEp. 114: Why Blue Bottle Coffee Founder James Freeman is Focused on The 'Negative Space'Even as one of the pioneers of the super-premium coffee set often referred to as "third-wave," Blue Bottle founder James Freeman says he was never interested in being ahead of the curve. For Freeman, creating an innovative and lasting brand is "about working on the negative space." Joining Taste Radio for a conversation in this week's episode, Freeman explained how Blue Bottle has built a unique platform differentiated by ultra high quality products and service by "figuring out what is there and shouldn't [be] rather than figuring out is not there and should be there". The strategy has attracted a...
2018-06-051h 04
Taste RadioEp. 97: REBBL CEO O'Loughlin: Leadership Guided By Constant Experimentation, CompassionSheryl O'Loughlin is ready for a change. It's not that O'Loughlin, the CEO of adaptogenic beverage brand REBBL, doesn't love her current job; since joining the company in 2015, she's embraced the role, the company and its passionate commitment to social responsibility. Rather, she believes that a business' ability to constantly evolve and to take a progressive approach to the times at hand can ultimately spell the difference between success or failure. In an interview included in this episode of Taste Radio, O'Loughlin noted, "it's really a matter of us thinking about the market, or even our companies as a constant...
2018-02-201h 14
Taste RadioEp. 87: Forager Project Co-Founder: We Are Great Believers in 'Ready. Fire. Aim.'Stephen Williamson, the co-founder and CEO of organic plant-based food and beverage company Forager Project, embraces a non-traditional approach to innovation. "We are great believers in 'Ready. Fire. Aim.'" he said in a recent interview included in this episode of Taste Radio. "We have tried to leverage anything where we've seen success." Launched in 2013, the San Francisco-based company has built a brand platform that extends from juices to smoothies to snacks and yogurts, all based around the principle of making great-tasting, healthy and minimally processed foods and beverages. Speaking with BevNET assistant editor Martin Caballero, Williamson and co-founder...
2017-12-081h 06