Founder Feature: BJ Howard of Wild West Chocolate

Turn every BFCM QR code scan into sales—get the free report now: www.uniqode.com/bfcmcpgIn this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Caitlin Bricker interviews BJ Howard, founder of Wild West Chocolate, a chocolate brand revolutionizing the confectionery space with fruit-sweetened, no-added-sugar products. BJ shares the company’s journey from concept to launch, including the challenges of navigating a volatile cacao market, the science behind developing a proprietary fruit-based sweetener, and the brand’s commitment to clean ingredients and sustainable practices.The conversation highlights the role of creative branding, the importance of strong partnerships, and the mission-driven approach that ties Wild West Chocolate to environmental stewardship and community impact.Listen now to learn how Wild West Chocolate is carving out a unique place in a highly competitive category while staying true to its vision of creating indulgent, better-for-you chocolate.Listen in as they share about:About Wild West ChocolateProduct Development & TeamBrand Mission & InspirationMarket ChallengesRetail and DistributionFuture OutlookEpisode Links:Website: https://wildwestchocolate.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bj-howard-6b87b075/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics Don’t miss the chance to connect with investors and brands—secure your spot at fandf.startupcpg.com

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Startup CPG Operations and Finance Correspondent Hannah Dittman, and Simon Solis-Cohen, Founder of Huxley,to discuss Founders & Funders — Startup CPG’s largest event to date. They explore how the event was created to connect the most active early-stage investors with top emerging brands through curated one-on-one meetings, insightful panels, and exceptional networking opportunities.Hannah draws on her venture capital experience to share what investors prioritize in early-stage consumer brands and how founders can prepare to stand out. Simon brings the founder’s perspective, emphasizing the value of building authentic investor relationships early and sharing lessons from launching Huxley, a better-for-you energy drink brand.Tune in now and learn how to position your brand for fundraising success!For more information or to apply, please visit fandf.startupcpg.comListen in as they share about:What is Founders & FundersAttendee LineupInvestor Lineup & HighlightsKey Panel DiscussionsEvent Design & MatchmakingFundraising Insights & ChallengesFounder’s Perspective (Simon Solis-Cohen, Huxley)Advice for Brands Applying to Founders & FundersEpisode Links:Website:https://drinkhuxley.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-solis-cohen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-dittman-011b844b/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

Turn every BFCM QR code scan into sales—get the free report now: www.uniqode.com/bfcmcpgDon’t miss the chance to connect with investors and brands—secure your spot at fandf.startupcpg.comIn this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Caitlin Bricker speaks with Greg Cahn, co-founder of Tamar Date Coffee, a brand bringing innovation to the coffee category through a unique blend of coffee and dates. Greg shares the inspiration behind Tamar, including his personal experience managing acid reflux and the role his family played in the product's development. The conversation covers Tamar’s clean-label approach, the health benefits of upcycled date seeds, the thoughtful minimalist branding, and the company’s strategic growth through Farmers Markets, Expo West, and retail partnerships.Gain valuable insights into the intersection of sustainability, product innovation, and brand storytelling in the consumer packaged goods space.Listen now! Listen in as they share about:Product Overview & IngredientsFounding Story & Personal MotivationBranding & DesignSustainability and UpcyclingMarket Strategy and ExpansionMarketing Channels & AvailabilityEpisode Links:Website: https://drinktamar.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gcahn/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

Turn every BFCM QR code scan into sales—get the free report now: www.uniqode.com/bfcmcpgDon’t miss the chance to connect with investors and brands—secure your spot at fandf.startupcpg.comIn this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff welcomes Laurel Orley, Co-Founder of Daily Crunch, and Tim Richards, Founder of Philosopher Foods, to discuss how they are redefining the almond snacking category through innovation, quality sourcing, and functional nutrition. Laurel shares the origin story behind Daily Crunch’s signature turmeric and sea salt sprouted almonds, a product born from a family tradition and bootstrapped R&D in her own kitchen. She breaks down the sprouting process, nutritional benefits, and how texture innovation helped them crack into conventional retail like Meijer and airport kiosks across the country. Tim introduces Gut Nuts™, the first fermented almonds on the market, explaining the role of probiotics, postbiotics, and lacto-fermentation in creating a tangy, umami-forward product that supports gut health.Whether you’re a snack lover, a founder, or a buyer looking for what’s next in CPG, this episode serves up insights on product innovation, texture as a differentiator, and why almonds are more relevant than ever..Tune in now and explore the future of almond snacking. Then grab a bag of Daily Crunch or Gut Nuts and taste the innovation for yourself!Special thanks to the Almond Board of California — visit them at almonds.com to learn more about their work and resources.Listen in as they share about:Brand Origins and Founder JourneysSprouting and Fermentation ProcessesProduct Differentiation Through TextureHealth & Nutritional BenefitsInnovation in Flavor DevelopmentRetail & Distribution StrategySupport from the Almond Board of CaliforniaEpisode Links:Website: https://www.dailycrunchsnacks.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-orley/ Website: https://philosopherfoods.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-richards-522285a4/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

Turn every BFCM QR code scan into sales—get the free report now: www.uniqode.com/bfcmcpgDon’t miss the chance to connect with investors and brands—secure your spot at fandf.startupcpg.comIn this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, our Editor, Caitlin Bricker, is joined by Daniele Orellana, co-founder of MITTS, a design-forward brand who's rethinking the everyday kitchen sponge. Daniele shares how MITTS was born out of a practical need to care for delicate glassware—specifically high-end wine glasses that were constantly breaking during handwashing. What started as a solution for wine enthusiasts has since evolved into a versatile, aesthetically pleasing tool for anyone seeking a better way to clean non-dishwasher-safe items.Throughout the conversation, Daniele discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a consumer product brand while maintaining a full-time medical career. She offers insight into the manufacturing decisions behind MITTS, including the difficulties of sourcing production domestically, and the advantages of a non-perishable product. As a first-generation founder, Daniele reflects on the values of risk-taking and resilience passed down from her immigrant parents, and how that mindset fuels her entrepreneurial journey.Also, hear about how she and her husband balance their professional lives with growing the brand, the importance of customer feedback, and the role of community—especially Startup CPG—in guiding their progress. With practical advice, personal stories, and a clear passion for thoughtful design, this episode is a must listen!Listen in as they share about:Product Evolution and Use CasesManufacturing ChallengesShelf Life and DurabilityCommunity & MentorshipAdvice to Other FoundersEpisode Links:Website: https://mitts.store/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniele-orellana-258366157/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff welcomes back Eric Skae, CEO of Carbone Fine Food, to discuss the brand’s rapid ascent in the premium pasta sauce category. Eric shares how Carbone scaled from launch to more than 25,000 retail doors in under five years, while maintaining strong velocities and brand integrity.They explore Carbone’s distribution-first strategy, disciplined approach to innovation, and the importance of product quality in building consumer trust. Eric also provides insights into team building, co-packer management, capital efficiency, and sustainable scaling.This episode offers valuable lessons for emerging food and beverage brands navigating growth and category disruption.Don’t miss this valuable episode. Tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Carbone Brand GrowthGo-to-Market & StrategyProduct InnovationOperations & Quality ControlTeam & HiringFunding & Capital EfficiencySales & Retail RelationshipsAdvice for Early-Stage BrandsEpisode Links:Website: https://carbonefinefood.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-skae-7712b017/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, our Editor, Caitlin Bricker, is joined by Bilal Othman, founder of Huwa, a premium olive oil brand with deep Palestinian roots. Bilal shares the compelling journey of how a multi-generational family tradition—olive farming in Palestine—evolved into a thoughtfully designed, U.S.-based brand that is as much about heritage and connection as it is about quality.Gain insight into the cultural and agricultural significance of Huwa's olive oil, including its authentic single-origin sourcing, cold-pressing methods, and unique production process. Bilal also delves into the meaning behind the brand’s name, the intentional and nostalgic design of its packaging, and how Huwa serves as a bridge between generations, continents, and communities.Whether you're a consumer, retailer, or entrepreneur, this episode offers a refreshing look at building a mission-driven business steeped in heritage and community.Listen now!Listen in as they share about:Origins and Family History of HuwaBrand Identity and DesignLegacy and Cultural ConnectionOlive Oil Production ProcessDifferentiation from Mainstream Olive OilsAppeal to Retailers and ConsumersDiscovery and Role of Startup CPGEpisode Links:Website: https://huwatasty.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bilal-othman-43245788/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff speaks with Hector Saldivar, founder and CEO of Tia Lupita Foods, about his journey from sharing his mother’s hot sauce recipe to building a nationally recognized, better-for-you Mexican-inspired brand.Hector shares how he grew Tia Lupita from kitchen batches to retail shelves, the challenges of competing in the crowded hot sauce category, and the strategies he used to stand out with authentic branding and premium positioning. He opens up about his SharkTank experience (and the realities of renegotiating after the cameras stop rolling), lessons learned from fundraising and retail expansion, and the pivotal moments that led to Tia Lupita’s acquisition by Vilore Foods.They also dive deep into entrepreneurship, resilience, and the balance between seizing opportunities and pacing growth.  Tune in to gain valuable perspective on building and scaling a food brand!Listen in as they share about:Founding Story of Tia Lupita FoodsSharkTank ExperienceEarly Growth and Retail ExpansionDifferentiation in the Hot Sauce MarketTrends in Hot Sauce & Chili CrispFundraising and Acquisition JourneyRetailer & Distribution StrategyAdvice to EntrepreneursEpisode Links:Website: https://tialupitafoods.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hector-sald%C3%ADvar-16a34a/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Hannah Dittman speaks with Andrew Montgomery, Partner at Collaborative Fund, about building successful brands at the intersection of for-profit and for-good. Andrew shares his career journey across operations, brand building, and investing on his path to Collaborative Fund.He outlines the firm’s investment philosophy, including their “villain test,” and offers detailed guidance on pitching to investors, identifying enduring consumer trends, and structuring effective fundraising strategies. Andrew also provides practical advice on evaluating investor–founder alignment, building momentum during a raise, and navigating long-term partnerships.Listen to gain actionable insights on positioning your brand for growth, attracting the right capital, and fostering relationships that support your vision.Listen in as they share about:Andrew’s Career BackgroundCollaborative Fund’s Investment PhilosophyInvestment Criteria & Evaluation ProcessTraits of Strong FoundersTrends, Categories & ThesesFundraising Timing & StrategyAdvice for Founders Seeking InvestmentEpisode Links:Website: https://collabfund.com/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewwmontgomery/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Hannah's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, our Editor, Caitlin Bricker, is joined by Alyssa Fernandez, founder of Ollin, a bold new baking brand that’s flipping the script on how we think about gluten. Alyssa shares her journey from data journalism to the baking aisle, revealing how a personal health journey and a DIY wedding cake sparked the inspiration for Ollin. Gain insight into how Ollin leverages traditional milling methods and Texas-grown grains to create thoughtful, flavor-forward cake mixes.Alyssa opens up about the challenges of being a first-time CPG founder, what it took to formulate her products using ancient grains, and how her brand’s Wild West-inspired aesthetic helps tell a deeper story. From branding decisions to startup strategies and overcoming gluten’s villainized reputation, this episode dives into the intersection of food, culture, and inclusivity.If you're curious about elevating your pantry, embracing better grains, or launching your own CPG venture, this episode is a must-listen.Listen in as they share about:Product Philosophy and DevelopmentBranding and DesignPositioning Gluten as a Positive IngredientMarket Positioning & Consumer BehaviorGo-to-market milestoneRetail Launch and Future PlansEpisode Links:Instagram: @ollinyallLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ffernandezalyssa/ 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 (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics