Episodes

Stephen Williamson and JC Hanley, the co-founder of plant-based food and beverage company Forager Project, open up about the mission-fueled (and occasionally messy) evolution of their brand, what it takes to build a standout CPG brand in saturated categories, what it means to innovate with both a moral compass and a culinary one and how they define success.

On location in London, the hosts delve into emerging trends and spotlight the brands and entrepreneurs driving innovation in the food and beverage space. Their discussion offers a look at what’s gaining traction across the pond… and what may soon be making its way to the U.S. market.

The latest episode of Taste Radio’s Elevator Talk spotlights innovative leaders from Statesman Marinades, Harlem Baking Company, Häppy Candy, OKO and Sun Ghee. This week’s special co-host is Rifle Hughes, the co-founder of Integral CPG.

Hurray’s Girl Beer isn’t just another craft brand. It’s a calculated rebellion against an industry stuck in the past. Founder Ray Biebuyck explains how the brand’s satirical, female-forward positioning flips the script in a category that has long overlooked nearly a third of its audience: women.

Ten years ago, the idea of canned milk powering a fast-growing brand might have seemed far-fetched. And yet, Slate – which recently announced $23 million in fresh funding – has proven just how powerful a novel concept can be. The hosts also look back on an unforgettable meetup in San Francisco, where industry veterans, insiders, and early-stage founders came together in a high-energy atmosphere.

What separates beverage brands that break out from those that burn out? In this episode, industry veteran Ken Sadowsky – often known by his sobriquet, the “Beverage Whisperer” – offers a behind-the-scenes look at what’s working (and what’s not) in the fiercely competitive drinks industry.

The hosts dive into the sustained wave of protein-infused consumer products – from popcorn to mashed potatoes – and debate whether the market is approaching “protein fatigue” or merely scratching the surface of a macro trend driven more by marketing than science. They also recap Taste Radio’s high-energy meetup in San Diego, spotlighting several new [...]

The latest episode of Taste Radio’s Elevator Talk spotlights innovative leaders from Whole Moon, Solstice, Raya Fruit Water, Hawaiian Soda Co. and Elixir Shots. This week’s special co-host is Allison Ball, the founder & CEO of Food Biz Wiz.