Complex to Convenient with Paul Schiefer of Amy’s Kitchen

In this conversation, Paul Schiefer, president of Amy's Kitchen, shares the inspiring founding story of the company, which began with a quest for better frozen meals. He discusses the innovative approaches to product development, the importance of company culture and values, and the value of embracing complexity in business. Paul highlights Amy's commitment to sustainability and their B Corp status, emphasizing the impact of organic and vegetarian practices. He also shares insights on the future vision for the company, the importance of curiosity and passion in entrepreneurship, and personal reflections on food and life.Takeaways:Amy's Kitchen was founded out of a need for better frozen meals.The original pot pie was a key product that launched the brand.Innovation at Amy's focuses on quality and culinary techniques.Company culture is deeply rooted in the founders' values.Sustainability is a core principle of Amy's business model.The future vision includes generational sustainability and growth.Curiosity and passion are essential for success in business.Amy's Kitchen embraces complexity in food production.The company aims to make healthy food accessible to all.Doing good in business leads to long-term success.Sound bites:“He started looking for some frozen food options to bring home and feed the family, and just frankly was disappointed.”"The original recipe was Rachel's mom's Elinor. It was kind her pot pie that helped inspire the start of the company"“I think what Amy's has done really well is accept that complexity is actually valuable.”"Doing good is good for business."“We want to protect our mission in part by continuing to be a really profitable and efficient company.”“We're also trying to think about this more on a generational timeframe, not just on like a three to five year timeframe.”“It was such a novel idea to create an organic vegetarian fast food restaurant that, before we knew it, we had a line that literally went across the parking lot.”“We’re buying a hundred plus million pounds of organic agriculture every year and supporting thousands of farmers.”“I’m proud of the fact that we have scaled that type of [impact] business model.”Links:Paul Schiefer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulschiefer/Amy’s Kitchen - https://www.amys.com/Amy’s Kitchen on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/amy's-kitchen/posts/?feedView=allAmy’s Kitchen on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amyskitchenAmy’s Kitchen on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/amyskitchenAmy’s Kitchen on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/AmysKitchenMoviesChapters:03:00 The Founding Story of Amy's Kitchen06:01 Innovation and Product Development at Amy's09:03 Cultural Values and Company Evolution11:47 Navigating Growth and Market Challenges15:00 The Drive to Create Quality Fast Food17:47 Maintaining Independence and Company Values31:10 Launching a Unique Concept33:06 The Importance of Sustainable Growth35:43 Commitment to Impact and B Corp Status40:04 Holistic Approach to Sustainability44:47 Future Vision for Amy's Kitchen52:24 Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Kevin Bayuk shares what inspired them to create the Next Economy MBA program, who it’s for, and what the curriculum covers. We talk about the shortcomings of the existing MBA programs and the need for one that goes beyond basic ESG frameworks. Bayuk talks about how they’ve used participant feedback to continuously evolve the program, and how their alumni continue to stay engaged after graduating. We then talk about the Next Economy MBA book, which serves a nice introduction to topics in the program, the other technical assistance Lift Economy provides, and what new offerings are on the horizon. Kevin wraps up by sharing his vision of a better world.Takeaways:Lyft economy’s mission to transform the very nature of the business as usual economy to an economy that works for the benefit of all life.The lack of options available for learning about impact business models beyond basic ESG frameworks.How the Next Economy MBA program was collaboratively developed.The ways in which the program has evolved over the years.Why they decided to write the Next Economy MBA book, and how it related to the program itself.Who tends to go through the MBA program, why, and where it leads them.The other technical assistance programs Lift Economy offers.Kevin’s involvement in the Urban Permaculture Institute.Simplifying life can help you focus on what truly matters.Science fiction can inspire new ideas and perspectives.A world with no one left out is a worthy goal.Passion can drive meaningful change in society.Sound bites:“We got started by listening to what our stakeholders were interested in.”“Do it in ways that are distinct from the structures and patterns and norms of the exploitation-oriented, business-as-usual economy.”"It's an evolving service or product that continues to change every cohort based on participant feedback.”“We're now at about 800 people who have enrolled and participated in the training.”“It's really been kind of electrifying just to seeing the types of collaborations that can emerge.”“The book is a good way to get introduced to the core concepts.”"Explore the imagination landscape."“What would a world look like that works for everybody with no one left out.”“Try and simplify your life to make your needs as simple as possible to meet and then just stick with it.”“How do we orient our life design to reduce our costs of living and live more authentically in alignment with our values.”Links:Kevin Bayuk on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinbayuk/Lift Economy - https://www.lifteconomy.com/Lift Economy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifteconomy/Lift Economy on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LIFTEconomy/Lift Economy on X - https://x.com/lifteconomyLift Economy on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5D6TM2pOWwGNcxA-ucd-EgThe Next Economy MBA - https://go.lifteconomy.com/nextmbaBook: The Next Economy MBA - https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-next-economy-mba-redesigning-business-for-the-benefit-of-all-life-erin-axelrod/028990c9a162693fPodcast: Next Economy Now - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-economy-now-for-the-benefit-of-all-life/id1074584017See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Syed and Amer share how family tragedy, living around the world, and experience in the packaged good industry all led them to launch their own food brand, Auntie Rana’s. They share how their marketing strategy resulted in landing 300 influencers, 4-5 retail partners, and loads of press by the week of their official launch. The discussion covers their 100 year family history in business, their connection to and passion for the food industry, and why they’ve decided to donate 5% of their product to wildlife conservation. Syed and Amer and excited to be the first to introduce North America to the Naga chili, which is beloved for its fragrance in other parts of the world. The conversation then goes on to talk about the challenges they faced launching the brand, their hopes for the future, and what a better word means to Syed and Amer.Takeaways:Syed and Amer’s father passing started them on the path to launching a food brand. Having lived in California, Bangladesh, Singapore, Montreal, Toronto gives them a unique view of global foods and tastes.Their experience in the food industry and large consumer goods companies guided their launch.Auntie Rana’s brand secured 4-5 retail partners on launch day.Launching with over 300 influencers will help promote the product.Auntie Rana’s gives 5% of profits to animal conservation causes.They’re the first brand to introduce the Naga chili to North America.Launching with 4 different products gives them both product range and focus.Their family has been in business for a hundred years.Sound bites:“Our family's been through a lot of turmoil. The 2008 financial crisis kind of wiped out all of our assets and our homes and everything. Then our Dad got cancer in 2016.“Naga chili is absolutely beloved in Eastern Bangladesh to India's Seven Sisters because of the fragrance. It's wildly amazing.”“My mom always said you’ve got to try everything three times. That's why our palate grew so much.”“These are the areas that the exact same wildlife is affected by the agriculture. We’re trying to help those areas.”“Reading history is powerful, because every mistake you're going to make, someone's already made it. Why not just learn from that?”“If you're not passionate about it, you're going to burn out.”Links:Auntie Rana’s - https://auntieranas.com/Syed Khaleque on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/syed-khaleque-586aaab/Auntie Rana’s on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/auntie-rana-s/about/Auntie Rana’s on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/auntieranas/Auntie Rana’s on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/auntieranas/Auntie Rana’s on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@auntieranas…Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation - https://www.orangutan.or.id/Wildlife Alliance - https://www.wildlifealliance.org/Wildlife SOS - https://wildlifesos.org/…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Jordan Buckner, founder of Foodbevy, discusses the Foodbevy Insider Boxes, which deliver curated food and beverage products to food enthusiasts and CPG industry pros. He explains the process of selecting products, the themes behind each box, and the importance of community feedback in deciding which foods to feature. Buckner walks through some of the products you’ll find in the upcoming Winter 2025 box, and teases possible future collaborations, like their box featuring the Naturally Rising Pitch Competition finalists. We wrap up by talking about Buckner’s mission of supporting emerging brands and providing valuable resources for food and beverage founders.Takeaways:Foodbevy aims to support emerging food and beverage brands.The Insider Box is curated quarterly with consumer input.Themes in each box reflect current market trends.Consumer feedback is crucial for product selection.The Insider community provides valuable insights and engagement.Brands can gain exposure through the Insider Box.Future collaborations with other organizations are planned.Customization options for boxes may be explored.Foodbevy offers resources for CPG founders.Understanding consumer preferences is key to success.Sound bites:“The Winterbox is all around those three themes I mentioned earlier, functional indulgence, global comfort, and elevated every day.”"I discovered some of my new favorites."“The taste is absolutely delicious. I crushed like five bags."It's like a trade show in a box that's delivered to your door."Links:Jordan Buckner on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanbucknerInsider Box by FoodBevy - https://insider.foodbevy.comFoodBevy - https://www.foodbevy.comFoodBevy on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/foodbevyFoodBevy on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/foodbevyFoodBevy on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCenY4faC-_51rfYjWUgEGAQJoyful Co - https://joyfulco.com/…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Foodbevy and Insider Boxes04:17 Curating the Insider Box Experience06:21 Themes in Product Selection08:09 Discovering New Favorites10:26 Subscription Frequency and Management10:57 Exploring Unique Products12:25 Shelf-Stable Convenience13:54 Controversial Brands and Ingredients15:16 Emerging Brands and Trends17:50 Exciting Upcoming Products19:28 Winter Box Preview21:04 Innovative Flavors and Ingredients23:15 Unique Snack Options25:01 Lower Sugar Movement in Snacks26:07 Fermented Products and Gut Health27:04 Exploring Unique Flavors: The Gut Nuts Experience32:53 Building a Community: The Insider Experience41:53 Evolving Product Offerings: Customization and Feedback46:54 Resources for Success: Supporting Food and Beverage Founders51:08 The Importance of Community and Support in BusinessSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Doug Behrens, CEO of Catalina Crunch, shares the inspiring story of the brand's inception, rooted in founder Krishna Kaliannan’s personal journey with Type 1 Diabetes. The discussion delves into the early success, fast growth, and eventual plateau of the brand that warranted a new approach if they wanted to grow past $75 million. Doug highlights the need for profitability in today's market, which empowers them to grow without the need for outside capital, and explains how they took a fresh look at their products and team to reignite growth – emphasizing the importance of mainstream taste, brand authenticity, and consumer trust as they push toward $200 million this year. We wrap up with Doug sharing his vision for a kinder, more sustainable world through better-for-you snacks.Takeaways:Krishna's journey began with a personal need for better snacks.Catalina Crunch started as a DTC brand but retail unlocked real growth.The brand focuses on snack nostalgia while providing healthier options.Doug emphasizes the importance of appealing to mainstream taste when scaling food products.Transitioning from founder-led organization to a scale-experienced leadership team is crucial.Maintaining authenticity and trust is vital for brand success.Profitability is prioritized over speed of growth in today's market.Consumer preferences are shifting towards healthier, low-sugar, high-fiber, and high-protein options.The company is methodical about product expansion and innovation.Sustainability and community connection are key to a better world.Sound bites:“He realized, holy cow, I can actually scale this.”“They decided to take it to retail and built it to about a $75 million business the end of 2023.”“The keto trend was on its way down and we were positioned as a keto brand.”“Taste is king of everything.”“Retailers are making decisions inside three to six months. You either have an item that performs or it's gone.”“He stays incredibly frugal in everything he does. For example, if you want to spend more marketing, you have to have more sales.”“Being able to build this business profitably without having to raise more and more money is pretty impressive”“You've got to have purpose has to be aligned with consumer values.”“I think a brand that puts people first, pays people fair, safe working conditions, dignity across everything they do is important.”Links:Doug Behrens - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-behrens-43bb422/Catalina Crunch - https://us.catalinacrunch.com/Catalina Crunch on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/catalina-crunch/Catalina Crunch on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/catalinacrunch/Catalina Crunch on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/catalinacrunch……Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 The Genesis of Catalina Crunch08:53 Founder Versus Operator15:01 Navigating Product Innovation and Market Trends20:57 The Importance of Authenticity and Trust26:46 Profitability and Sustainable Growth32:56 Future Vision and Market Opportunities38:57 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs44:56 Building a Better World Through BrandsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Lex Evan ®, founder and CEO of Lexington Bakes, discusses the growth of his brand, focusing on the wildly successful launch of his new chilled oat bars and the strategic decisions made to optimize product offerings for retail. The conversation highlights the brand's commitment to organic ingredients and radical ingredient transparency, the challenges and successes in co-manufacturing, and the importance of maintaining product quality. Lex discusses the recent $1 Million investment round and how that will help unlock the next stage of growth, including new product innovations, scaled manufacturing, and increased marketing efforts. As he grows the brand, Lex plans to remain committed to sustainability and organic ingredients, emphasizing the impact of consumer choices on the planet.Takeaways:Lexington Bakes focuses on luxury baked goods with organic ingredients.The brand emphasizes radical ingredient transparency for consumer empowerment.Oat bars were developed and launched in under three months.The oat bars have significantly less sugar, yet still taste indulgent.Packaging design has evolved to enhance clarity at retail and appeal for social media posting.The brand is optimizing product sizes to drive trial and increase velocities in retail.Lex raised $1 million to enhance marketing and production.Finding the right co-manufacturer was a significant challenge.Maintaining product quality is crucial for brand integrity.Lex's oat bar launch received amazing consumer feedback, retail traction, and a Good Housekeeping Award.A new peanut butter cookie formula increases the protein content.The brand focuses on using organic ingredients for sustainability.A better world means making conscious consumer choices.Sound bites:"We make luxury brownies, cookies, and oat bars from scratch with real organic and air trade ingredients – no naughty ingredients."“The oat bars have 40 % less sugar than our cookies and brownies.”"I got very lucky finding the right co-manufacturer."“We won two good housekeeping best snack awards, one of which is for the oat bar that I developed in three months.”"We sold 30 or 40 units in two hours."“We're going to be more nutrient dense than one of the most prominent protein cookies out there.”“We all have the power to make decisions that positively impact.”Links:Lex Evan on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexevan/Lexington Bakes - https://lexingtonbakes.com/Lexington Bakes on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/lexingtonbakesLexington Bakes on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lexingtonbakesLexington Bakes on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lexingtonbakesLexington Bakes on X - https://x.com/lexingtonbakes…Elk Marketing - https://elkhq.com/…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Lexington Bakes05:16 The Journey of Oat Bar Development12:51 Consumer Response and Market Strategy18:56 Packaging Evolution and Design Optimization30:41 Bootstrapping and Growth Strategies39:00 Navigating Co-Manufacturing Challenges40:58 Celebrating Wins and Learning from Challenges51:45 Product Innovations and Future Plans57:37 Vision for a Better WorldSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Whitney Douglas, Director of Sales at Living Alchemy, discusses the transformative power of fermentation in health supplements and its historical significance. She explains how Living Alchemy uses fermentation to enhance the potency and digestibility of their products, emphasizing a holistic approach to nutrition. The discussion also covers the launch of their new book, 'The Living Alchemy Book of Fermentation,' which aims to educate readers on the benefits of fermentation and provide practical tips and recipes. Whitney shares insights on the importance of returning to natural health practices and the need for unity in the wellness community.Takeaways:Fermentation enhances the potency and digestibility of supplements.Living Alchemy focuses on whole plant supplements for holistic health.Their new book aims to educate on fermentation and its benefits.Fermentation has historical significance in health practices.Customer feedback drives product development at Living Alchemy.The shift towards natural health is gaining momentum.Fermentation can reduce anti-nutrients in food.Connection to nature is essential for health and wellness.Personal growth often involves deconditioning from societal norms.A better world is about unity and connection. Sound bites:“Curcumin is fat soluble, but when you ferment the turmeric root, the curcumin becomes water soluble, making it more easily absorbed into your body.”“I do feel like there's that shift is coming where, you know, but we're going back to nature, whether you want to call it rewilding, remembering, it's happening, you know?”“I'm starting to realize that like, in the West anyways, everything that you should be doing is somehow removed from your life and then sold back to you as a service or product.”“we know how important gut health is to the rest of the body, especially when it comes to the immune system and cognitive function, cardiac function.”"Tend to your inner garden."“Go fermental.”“Holy basil makes a great tea and it's already wonderful. But then you ferment it and then it just turns into like the next level.”“The process took three years. To stop writing the book was the hardest thing about writing the book because draw the line in the sand at some point and agree that it's done.”“Divided we are not strong."Links:Whitney Douglas on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-douglas-36110512/Living Alchemy - https://livingalchemy.com/The Living Alchemy Book of Fermentation - https://livingalchemy.com/products/the-living-alchemy-book-of-fermenationLiving Alchemy on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/therealalchemyusa/Living Alchemy on X - https://x.com/TherealalchemyULiving Alchemy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-alchemy-fermented-supplements/…Philosopher Foods Fermented & Sprouted Nuts - https://philosopherfoods.com/…The Gene Keys Book - https://genekeys.com/product/the-gene-keys-paperback/…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Living Alchemy and Fermentation06:13 The Science of Fermentation and Its Benefits08:54 Holistic Health and Whole Plant Nutrition12:10 The Evolution of the Supplement Industry14:58 Addressing Health Concerns Through Natural Solutions17:55 Product Development and Customer Feedback21:07 The Living Alchemy Book of Fermentation23:51 The Historical Context of Fermentation26:52 The Future of Living Alchemy and Customer Engagement34:33 Understanding Fermentation and Its Importance35:37 The Journey of Writing a Cookbook38:12 Exploring Unique Recipes and Their Significance42:44 The Collaborative Process of Recipe Development44:29 The Challenges and Surprises in Fermentation47:13 The Impact of Fermentation on Health49:21 Reflections on the Book Writing Experience51:01 The Role of Authenticity in Personal Growth57:47 Envisioning a Better World Through UnitySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Sara Stender Delaney, founder of Sarilla Beverage, shares her journey from her roots in Vermont, to her transformative experiences in Rwanda, and what inspired her to create a non-alcoholic organic tea spritzer company. She discusses the challenges of launching a beverage brand, the importance of regenerative agriculture, and her commitment to social impact and mental health. Sara emphasizes the need for personal growth and responsibility in creating a better world, highlighting the interconnectedness of health, community, and sustainability.Takeaways:Sara's entrepreneurial journey was influenced by her experiences in Rwanda.The connection to Rwanda inspired Sara to focus on regenerative organic supply chains.Sarilla Beverage was born out of a desire to create non-alcoholic options for health-conscious consumers.Sara emphasizes the importance of personal growth and healing in her journey.The challenges of product development include navigating market demands and consumer preferences.Regenerative agriculture is crucial for sustainable farming and environmental health.Sara's nonprofit work in Rwanda focuses on trauma healing and entrepreneurship training.The beverage industry requires constant adaptation and learning from failures.Sara believes in the power of community and support for mental health.A better world involves individuals taking responsibility for their health and well-being. Sound bites:“I consistently had the opportunity to quit or fail or close. There's always that possibility.”“I think it's important to stay grounded, but also connected to a big vision and sometimes just to trust that the universe will show us opportunities along the way that we can't even plan for.”“The last thing we need is another generic consumer product… the only thing we might need more of is like brands making a difference and making an impact.”“With my own sobriety journey, I was just feeling consistently like something was missing for me and my friends and people I knew who were not drinking alcohol.”“It's 100 % regenerative. They just don't have the certification yet.”“It's like, instead of just taking and taking from Mother Earth, it's like we have an exchange.”“We're finding is that plants grown in regenerative soil are better for humans as well.”“There's so many systems ripe for change.”“I would like to see more people showing up in their healthy self.”“I've seen firsthand the ripple effect of unhealed trauma on families, on communities, on villages, and on generational impact.”Links:Sara Stender Delaney on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarastenderdelaney/Sarilla - https://www.drinksarilla.com/Sarilla on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/drinksarilla/Sarilla on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drinksarilla/Sarilla on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DrinkSarillaSarilla on X - https://x.com/drinksarillaSarilla on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@drinksarillaSarilla on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drinksarilla…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Sarilla Beverage and Its Origins14:50 The Impact of Rwanda on Sara's Journey24:50 The Birth of Sarilla Beverage31:45 Product Development and Challenges38:52 Navigating the Beverage Industry39:50 Building a Supportive Network50:55 Understanding Regenerative Agriculture01:05:09 Envisioning a Better WorldSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Bryon White, co-founder of Yaupon Brothers, discusses the unique qualities and benefits of Yaupon, the only caffeine-containing plant native to North America. He shares insights into the history of Yaupon, its cultivation, and the innovative flavored blends that have emerged. The discussion also covers their recent influencer branded products and the importance of building authentic relationships with influencers for successful marketing. We discuss the challenges faced by the CPG industry, and the role of regenerative agriculture in sustainable farming practices. Bryon emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to understand their customers and the significance of leaving the world better than we found it.Takeaways:Yaupon is the only caffeine-containing plant native to North America.Historically, Yaupon was widely consumed across various cultures for its energizing and medicinal properties.Yaupon offers a smoother taste compared to traditional teas due to its lower tannin content.Theobromine in Yaupon provides a chill energy boost without jitters.Yaupon Brothers focuses on cultivating unique varietals for better tea production.Flavored Yaupon blends have gained popularity, appealing to a broader audience.Building authentic relationships with influencers can lead to successful collaborations.Regenerative agriculture practices are integral to Yaupon cultivation.Entrepreneurs should prioritize understanding their customers before launching products.The CPG industry faces challenges with rising costs across the supply chain, local production is a big win.Sound bites:“Yaupon has been associated with mental, spiritual, and physical purity for at least 8,000 years, probably longer than that. And only in the last 150, 200 years has it really sort of been forgotten about.”“Yaupon is the only caffeine source native to North America.”“It's very similar to tea in terms of its caffeine content, but with a higher ratio of theobromine to caffeine, meaning that it's a way more chill experience.”"Flavored Yaupon blends have gained popularity."“Yaupon is the only caffeinated holly native to in North America. The other two are in South America and those are yerba mate and wayusa.”“Yaupon trees provide habitat for wildlife, they provide food for pollinators, they help stabilize the soil, and when we harvest the trees, we tend to put the woody material from the harvesting process back into the soil, so there could be like a carbon sequestration component as well.”“We were able to give Uncle Pappy a way to monetize his following without doing things that he wasn't comfortable doing. Without selling out, so to speak.”“We have a 5 % give back to Friends of the Everglades, which was something that Uncle Pappy cared about a lot and something that we jive with.”"The CPG industry faces rising costs and challenges.""Social media has made us dumb and inconsiderate."Links:Bryon White on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryon-white-b9b172b0/Yaupon Brothers - https://yauponbrothers.com/Yaupon Brothers on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/YauponAsiTea/Yaupon Brothers on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yauponteaYaupon Brothers on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1hGFk-WriknjdCK0iqF0MQYaupon Brothers on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@yauponbrothers…Black Drink, A Native American Tea (Book) - https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/black-drink-a-native-american-tea/2851945/item/28550797/#edition=3163440&idiq=33503911…Uncle Pappy Florida Chai - https://yauponbrothers.com/products/yaupon-tea-uncle-pappys-zippacket-16Uncle Pappy on Instagram - https://www.everglades.org/Uncle Pappy on Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@unc.pappyUncle Pappy on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7arn0PnTCPNbAKRzNhD-vQFriends of the Everglades - https://www.everglades.org/…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Yaupon and Its Significance05:50 Health Benefits and Unique Qualities of Yaupon08:48 Consumer Reactions and Perceptions of Yaupon11:41 Yaupon Varietals and Flavored Blends14:41 The Founding Story of Yaupon Brothers17:41 Processing Yaupon and Its Accessibility20:45 Affiliate Marketing and Influencer Collaborations23:48 Successful Collaborations and Product Development26:45 Future of Affiliate Marketing and Building Relationships41:51 The Shift in Investment Landscape44:52 Challenges in Starting New Ventures47:44 Influencer Collaborations and Market Expansion52:37 Embracing Regenerative Agriculture58:03 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs01:06:32 Defining a Better WorldSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Simón Sacal, CEO and co-founder of Solely, shares his journey toward building a company focused on creating healthy fruit snacks made entirely from real fruit. He explains the challenges of using real fruit in manufacturing, the importance building a reliable supply chain, and how the patented innovations that unlocked their ability to make indulgent yet nutritious products. He then shares vision for the future of the company, advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs, and how he believes that aligned incentives in the food system can lead to a better world.Takeaways:Solely aims to revolutionize fruit snacks by using only real fruit.The evolution of fruit snacks from their original candy origin.Using real fruit in manufacturing presents unique challenges.Organic sourcing is a priority, but making indulgent yet nutritious whole food snacks is their purpose.Eliminating waste in the supply chain is crucial for efficiency.Building strong relationships with farmers is essential for success, especially when using whole, fresh ingredients.Innovative manufacturing processes allow for shelf-stable fruit products without preservatives.Future growth will focus on expanding product lines while maintaining quality.Aspiring entrepreneurs should ensure their product solves a real problem.Business must be treated as a sustainable venture, not just a passion project.Sound bites:“So I have a very, very long story. I've been doing this for more than 25 years.”“We're designed to crave sweetness, and in nature the only place that you find sweetness is in fruit.”"We help farmers use 100% of what they grow.”“All the incentives are aligned and everyone makes money from each other's success.”“The process has to be very mild to the fruit. And then you need to manufacture it in a way that you don't need preservatives.”“It's all about the basics. This is not rocket science. The product has to taste amazing. It has to be priced in line with everything else. It has to communicate well to the consumer. It has to have a market fit.”“To make a product out of fruit, you need to create the whole supply chain and understand how to do it in a way that's profitable, that works for the supply chain, for the farmers, for you.”“At the end of the day, it's just a great product that checks all the boxes.”Links:Simуn Sacal on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sim%C3%B3n-sacal-05265715a/Solely - https://solely.com/Solely on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/solely-inc/Solely on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solelycleanfood/Solely on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/solelyfruit/Solely on X - https://x.com/solelyfruitSolely on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@solelyfruit…Brands for a Better World Episode Archive - http://brandsforabetterworld.com/Brands for a Better World on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-for-a-better-world/Modern Species - https://modernspecies.com/Modern Species on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-species/Gage Mitchell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gagemitchell/…Print Magazine Design Podcasts - https://www.printmag.com/categories/printcast/…Heritage Radio Network - https://heritageradionetwork.org/Heritage Radio Network on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/heritage-radio-network/posts/Heritage Radio Network on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeritageRadioNetworkHeritage Radio Network on X - https://x.com/Heritage_RadioHeritage Radio Network on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heritage_radio/Heritage Radio Network on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@heritage_radioChapters:03:00 Introduction to Soli and Its Mission06:00 Revolutionizing Fruit Snacks: The Soli Approach09:03 Challenges of Using Real Fruit in Production11:59 The Importance of Organic Sourcing14:54 Understanding the Complexity of Food Production18:05 The Role of Waste in Food Systems20:57 Building Relationships with Farmers24:02 Soli's Commitment to Sustainability and Health34:09 Supporting Farmers Through Sustainable Practices38:47 Innovative Manufacturing for Healthy Products46:51 Future Growth and Product Innovation52:41 Advice for Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs56:40 Personal Insights and Reflections62:19 Creating a Better World Through Aligned IncentivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.