Episodes

From cell-cultured protein and functional soda to premium cereal and frozen snacks, this episode spotlights innovative brands, emerging partnerships, and winning strategies gaining momentum across the CPG landscape.

Burlap & Barrel didn’t chase scale – and that’s why it’s winning.In this episode, Ori Zohar, co-founder and co-CEO of the single-origin spice brand, explains how resisting the urge to go mass, staying profitable, and focusing on quality and relationships helped build a durable CPG brand.

From ginger shots and lentil crisps to sparkling bone broth and cinnamon water, the hosts hit the floor at 2026 Winter FancyFaire* in San Diego to sample what’s next in food and beverage. The hosts discuss standout brands, innovative concepts, smart packaging and evolving brand strategies that reveal where wellness, snacking and functional drinks are headed.

The hardest part of building a consumer brand? It’s not the product; it’s everything that comes after. Caliwater co-founder Oliver Trevena, who launched the cactus water brand alongside fellow actor Vanessa Hudgens, opens up about the realities of fundraising, the challenges of securing and scaling distribution, and the emotional toll that building a brand can take.

Protein is showing up in more products than ever before, but does it need to be in your soda? The Taste Radio team digs into the fast-growing ingredient trend, breaking down taste, functionality and whether more equals better. The hosts also tease an exciting first: BevNET’s inaugural trade show booth at the upcoming Winter FancyFaire.*

She helped redefine premium soda. Now she’s rethinking the martini. In this episode, Sharelle Klaus shares how the lessons, missteps and successes of building DRY Soda informed the launch of Second Sip, a lower-proof gin designed for today’s intentional drinker. She reflects on how her second act is more focused, shaped by patience, distribution strategy, brand clarity and long-term scale.