The Startup CPG Podcast

Delve into Expo West 2024 with discussions on gummy products, natural sweeteners, and protein trends. Discover standout brands, booth setups, and engaging interactions. Explore the rise of mushroom products, swag selection, and personal event preparations. Gain valuable insights on networking, brand camaraderie, and future trade show participation. A treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration awaits!

We are just as excited as you are to share the second part of Jamie Valenti Jordan’s episode –  How to Make and Scale Your Product.In this episode, Daniel Scharff and Jamie Valenti-Jordan take a deep dive into the intricate process of finding and collaborating with contract manufacturers (Comans) for startups in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) realm. From sourcing to negotiation, production runs to quality assurance, they unravel the complexities and challenges inherent in the CPG production landscape. Discover valuable insights on building relationships, fostering transparency, and navigating the dynamics between brands and manufacturers. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding CPG enthusiast, this podcast equips you with actionable strategies and expert advice to thrive in the competitive world of consumer goods. Tune in now!Listen in as Jamie shares about:Choosing/Finding Contract Manufacturers (Coman)First Production RunMaintaining a Good Relationship with the ComanQuality Control and Sensory EvaluationChallenges in ManufacturingLogistics and Supply Chain ManagementOperational Best PracticesStrategic Planning and ForecastingConsulting Services Offered by CatapultEpisode Links:Catapult Commercialization Services WebsiteJamie’s LinkedInDon'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 absolute gem of an episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Jamie  Valenti-Jordan, CEO of Catapult Commercialization Services, with a focus on scaling products and supporting startups in the CPG industry.Part 1 of this episode unveils Jamie's expertise in rapid product launch and expansion for emerging brands with revenue under $5 million. Drawing from his experience guiding operations at Hampton Creek, Jamie stresses the importance of collaboration within the startup community.Gain valuable insights into the intricacies of new product launches, with Jamie advising a strategic approach starting from a basic recipe aligned with consumer preferences. He touches upon formulation development, emphasizing weight percentages and packaging considerations for long-term product integrity.Jamie also explores the decision-making process between self-manufacturing and utilizing contract manufacturers, weighing the pros and cons based on preferences, skills, and resources. The profitability aspect is thoroughly addressed, highlighting the significance of cost coverage, profit-maximizing factors, and efficient production processes.Don't miss the first part of this episode - Tune in now!Listen in as Jamie shares about:Determining the Gold Standard and CertificationDocumentation for Quality and ScalingBuilding a DIY Fluidized Bed DryerRecall and SOP (Standard Operating Process)Sourcing Industrial IngredientsPackaging Selection and Shelf LifeNetworking and Professional HelpCommon Problems in Product ManufacturingConsiderations for Self-Manufacturing vs. Contract ManufacturingCash Management and Inventory PlanningEpisode Links:Catapult Commercialization Services WebsiteJamie’s LinkedInDon'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

Join Daniel Scharff and Patricia Menegoto in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, where they chat with Maurizio Rasti and Saphira Rasti, the dynamic founders of Nowhere Bakery. Discover their captivating journey from the fashion and modeling industry to crafting healthy baked goods, focusing on gluten-free offerings and noteworthy partnerships with Gwyneth Paltrow.Get the inside scoop on Nowhere Bakery's Shark Tank experience, from filming multiple episodes daily to managing the surge in demand post-airing. The founders share insights into their meticulous Shark Tank application process, emphasizing the intensive selection rounds and strategic preparations for significant exposure.Tune in now!Listen in as Saphira and Maurizio share about:Nowhere Bakery’s Product Line and DistributionTeam and GrowthCollaboration with Gwyneth PaltrowCasting ProcessAppearance on Shark TankCommercial KitchensPreparation for Increased DemandEpisode Links:Nowhere Bakery’s WebsiteNowhere Bakery’s  InstagramDon'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 dives into the world of protein with Chris Battaglia, a seasoned expert and category lead for proteins at leading e-commerce retailer Hungryroot that aims to simplify healthy eating through personalized grocery shopping, utilizing AI to gather customer taste data for tailored meal suggestions. The company's socially responsible initiatives and commitment to reducing waste resonate with a diverse consumer base, focusing on high-quality options for various age groups and regions.Discover the challenges faced by the meat industry, from navigating economic changes to maintaining impeccable quality standards. Chris reveals the crucial role of partnerships with suppliers who understand customer preferences and gives an overview of the role plant-based plays in his category.Tune in now!Listen in as Chris shares about:Transition to HungryrootInsights from Meat Cutting DaysExperience at Central Market and Whole FoodsPrivate Label and Branded ProductsImpact of COVID-19Meat Industry ChallengesHumane Standards and Supply ChainEngaging with Brands:Consumer FeedbackPlant-Based CategoryBrand PartnershipsEpisode Links:Hungryroot’s WebsiteChris’s LinkedInDon'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

Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast featuring Eric Skae, the CEO of Carbone Fine Food with over 35 years of experience in business. Carbone's success is anchored in its association with the renowned Carbone restaurant, premium product quality, and effective branding strategies.Eric emphasizes the crucial role of strategic partnerships, the early focus on velocity, and the evolving importance of margin and pricing as a brand matures. He also reveals his approach to brand launch, securing retail partnerships, and harnessing social media for optimal promotion.From extensive networking and diligent work ethics to developing expertise across various domains, Eric's advice is a beacon for those aspiring to make a mark in the CPG industry.Ready to add some special sauce to your CPG journey? Tune in now!Listen in as Eric shares about:Entrepreneurial Journey of EricEric's Lessons from Previous VenturesChallenges and Learning from New Leaf Iced TeaConsulting and Startup CollaborationStarting Carbone Fine FoodStrategies for Early Growth and Scaling:Launching a Premium Pasta Sauce BrandChallenges in Retail and Building RelationshipsDirect-to-Consumer Launch and ScalingPartnerships and Brand RecognitionWhole Foods and Market PositioningSuccess and ScalingEpisode Links:Carbone Fine Food WebsiteEric's LinkedInDon'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 special bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Jake Deleon, the founder and CEO of Fila Manila. With a focus on crafting award-winning sauces and spreads inspired by Filipino flavors, Jake shares insights into his appearance on the upcoming episode of Shark Tank, along with his anticipation for increased online orders and brand buzz.Drawing from his background at major CPG companies like Procter Gamble and Starbucks, Jake delves into the importance of understanding target audiences and product differentiation when launching a new product line. His persistence in applying multiple times to Shark Tank paid off, and he discusses the overwhelming yet fair experience of filming the show. Throughout the conversation, Jake emphasizes the broader impact he hopes to achieve—creating awareness for Filipino cuisine on a national level and making his mother proud by fulfilling her dream of seeing him on her favorite show.Don't miss this inspiring conversation that goes beyond the entrepreneurial journey to celebrate culture and culinary excellence. Tune in now!Listen in as Jake shares about:Founding Fila ManilaShark Tank Casting and FilmingPrevious Venture - Origin AlmondTikTok StrategyCultural RepresentationInternational ExperienceEntertaining YouTube VideoImpact of Shark Tank on EntrepreneurshipApplication ProcessNegotiation and ValuationTherapist Session After PitchFounders HeritageProduct Transition and Future PlansShow 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 Startup GPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Erin Fasano, the chief marketing officer at Core Foods with over two decades of experience in the CPG industry, and delves into the intricacies of marketing for food and beverage brands, while trying to explain the question “what is a CMO?” With a focus on emerging brands, Erin emphasizes the pivotal role of a CMO and advises aspiring marketers to start at classic CPG companies before venturing into smaller enterprises.Discover the keys to success, including building strong relationships with retailers like Whole Foods and Target, crafting comprehensive marketing plans aligned with sales activities, and prioritizing owned platforms for long-term brand identity. Plus, gain insights on effective consumer feedback utilization, brand partnerships, navigating the competitive landscape, and understand why retail distribution often trumps direct-to-consumer channels for heavy and perishable products and unravel the strategies for success in competitive categories.Ready to turn heads in the market? Hit play now!What Erin talks about:Joining Core Foods and Transition to CMO RoleStarting of Erin’s Own Brand - StarrysideChallenges and LessonsMarketing Strategy and PlanningRetail and Shopper MarketingAligning DTC with Trade ProgrammingSocial Media and AuthenticityConsumer Input and Product DevelopmentConsumer Input on PricingApproach to D2C vs. RetailConsulting and CollaborationEpisode Links:Core Food’s WebsiteErin's LinkedInGrab Erin's FREE Marketing Calendar Template here!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

Wondering how to get on shelf and pick the right marketing programs to do well?Join expert guests Erin, Courtney, and Holly as they share their wealth of knowledge on successfully navigating the Kroger landscape. From Erin's firsthand brand experience, Courtney's expertise around submissions and promotions, and Holly's insights into category strategies, this episode is packed with actionable tips for CPG startups.Learn the art of differentiation, effective marketing strategies, and successful promotions. Whether you're a startup or scaling up, this episode is for you.Don’t miss out on elevating your CPG startup with insider insights!Listen in as Erin, Courtney, and Holly share about:Kroger's PrioritiesNew Item Selling ProcessGetting into KrogerUnderstanding Shopper and LandscapeSupply Chain and Budget ConsiderationsShopper MarketingDSD CollaborationE-commerce OpportunitiesRegional ConsiderationsSales Velocity ExpectationsEpisode Links:Kroger.comHolly’s LinkedInErin’s LinkedInCourtney’s LinkedInDon'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 dives into the vibrant world of the natural food industry with Jonathan Lawrence, Vice President of Center Store at Fresh Thyme Market. Discover Fresh Thyme Market's mission-driven approach to offering fresh and healthy food at great value and Jonathan's passion for supporting startup brands.Explore the intricacies of building meaningful relationships with brands, tailoring assortments to community needs, and the significance of local brands in their stores through initiatives like the local scout program. Jonathan shares his excitement for international flavors and products, offering unique tastes and experiences for customers.Get an exclusive preview of the Startup CPG section at Expo West on level three of ACC, featuring 25 booths with amazing brands, including female founder giveaway winners. Ready to embark on a flavorful journey? Tune in now!Listen in as Jonathan shares about:Natural Food Industry ExpertiseRelationship BuildingBalancing Innovation and TraditionAdaptability to Store EnvironmentsSuccess Metrics for Category ManagersBrand Persistence and RelationshipsCategory Management and Retailer InfluenceChallenges in Introducing New BrandsInnovation in RetailBrand Life Cycle and Continuous InnovationSupport for Local Brands and Community EngagementExploration of International Flavors and Ethnic ProductsEpisode Links:Jonathan’s WebsiteJonathans LinkedInDon'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