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Dubbed the “Costco for millennials,” online retailer Boxed has made waves since its debut in 2013. In this episode, co-founder/CEO Chieh Huang spoke about the rapid growth of the company, how it curates its product assortment and why user experience has been central to its success. He also discussed the evolution of online food shopping and why its future “will feel like Netflix.”
Ryan Lewendon, a partner with influential CPG law firm The Giannuzzi Group, shared insights and advice based on over a dozen years spent working with high-profile food and beverage brands, including how to avoid early mistakes that can haunt entrepreneurs down the line and the keys to effective networking, plus tips on considering the valuation of your company and working with celebrities.
Fever-Tree North America CEO Charles Gibb spoke about his work in the spirits business leading up to his current role, including a high-profile role as the President and CEO of Belvedere Vodka. He also discussed how his experience in British Army taught him about the importance of communication and humor, spoke about the evolution of the global market for spirits and mixers and why he believes that Fever-Tree can be a brand for all consumers.
In this episode, Ben Mand, the CEO of super-premium coconut water brand Harmless Harvest, discussed the evolution of the company’s business and innovation strategy. We also spoke with Michele Simon, the founder and executive director of the Plant Based Foods Association, about the changing landscape for plant-based foods.
Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Co. founder/CEO Marygrace Sexton spoke about the brand’s origins and the two rules that govern its business strategy. She also explained why she’s determined to adopt a softer leadership style and how she’s preparing her daughter to take the reins.
After spending $500 million to acquire a majority stake in Blue Bottle Coffee, it might be surprising to hear that Nestlé is content to let the premium roaster and retailer “just be.” Blue Bottle CEO Bryan Meehan spoke about the company’s relationship with Nestlé, its purposeful innovation strategy and efforts to enhance consumers’ experience with coffee. Also in this episode: an interview with former N’Sync star Lance Bass, who recently launched a cocktail mixer brand.
Lescoe chronicled his journey as an entrepreneur, including how he created a foundation for success with Food Should Taste Good, discussed his perspective on risk and explained why cash will always be king. He also spoke about the eventual sale of the company, why he got back in the food business and why he doesn’t think about happiness as a goal.
Hint founder/CEO Kara Goldin discussed the role of Hint’s brick-and-mortar retail store in supporting the company’s omnichannel strategy. She also spoke about best practices for e-commerce and why data from online sales is critical to understanding Hint’s audience. Also: a conversation with James Le Compte, the CEO of To’ak, an ultra-premium chocolate brand based in Ecuador.
One of America’s greatest chefs, Nancy Silverton spoke about her approach to cooking and food innovation. She also explained why “having a business is not a hobby,” why she’s always trying to create food that is craveable, and how she navigates the challenges of modern marketing… aka making your restaurant bathroom “Instagrammable.”
Tiesta Tea co-founder/CEO Patrick Tannous explained why hitting the pavement and building strong relationships with retail buyers has been critical to the development of his company. Robert Jakobi, a serial food entrepreneur and founder of better-for-you soup company Bou, chronicled his journey from the U.K. to the U.S. and discussed differences in how business works within the two countries.