How I Built This with Guy Raz Advice Line with Pete Maldonado and Rashid Ali of Chomps
27 snips
Feb 19, 2026 
Rashid Ali, Chomps co-founder and operational strategist, and Pete Maldonado, Chomps co-founder who built the grass-fed meat stick brand, return to answer founders. They tackle scaling campus food businesses, breaking into big retailers with frozen products, and turning a niche lifestyle brand into a full-time business. They also reflect on a major product scare and customer-first decision making.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Protein Trend Is Structural Not Temporary
- Chomps benefits from a long-term cultural shift toward higher-protein diets rather than a passing fad.
- Pete Maldonado and Rashid Ali see room for durable growth beyond current "proteinification" trends.
Mass Recall Strengthened Operations
- Chomps faced a potential metal contamination and executed a broad recall even though no injuries occurred.
- Pete Maldonado describes the recall as one of the hardest times and says it strengthened their processes and infrastructure.
Open Nearby To Maintain Control
- Test a second location within reachable distance so you can support and manage it easily.
- Use a nearby college or food-truck strategy to avoid seasonality gaps and keep revenue flowing.